Tuesday, December 13, 2011

Celebrating 23 years of Celtic Rock!

 



Since forming in 1988, Tempest has delivered a globally-renowned hybrid of high-energy folk rock fusing Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences and other world music elements. The last 23 years have seen the San Francisco Bay Area based act release fifteen critically acclaimed CDs and play more than 2,000 gigs. It's also enjoyed an evolving line-up that's enabled its musicianship and creativity to rise with each new member-something highlighted by the group's current roster.

Hailing from Oslo, Norway, founding member and lead singer/electric mandolinist, Lief Sorbye, is recognized as a driving force in the modern folk-rock movement. He started Tempest after years of touring and recording on the folk circuit. California fiddler Michael Mullen, a favorite with the fans, is the original fiddler for the group. His high energy stage performance and versatile style combined with his love for Scottish and Irish traditional music makes him a perfect fit for Tempest. Newcomer, bassist Brian Fox, is a dual citizen of the US and Ireland. With an advanced degree in Ethnomusicology and years of touring and recording experience, he is Editor in Chief at Bass Player magazine. Born in Colorado and brought up in small town Missouri, Gregory Jones is the latest in a long line of Tempest guitar greats! His fiery licks and hard-rocking approach to the instrument, combined with his experience and understanding of Celtic music is fast winning over new fans! Cuban-born drummer Adolfo Lazo, an original Tempest member, colors the band's sound with inventive rhythms, and rock-steady drumming.

Signed to Koch-distributed Magna Carta Records, Tempest's releases are acclaimed worldwide. The group's latest studio CD, Another Dawn, finds the band in peak form as it showcases inventive original and traditional material.

Tempest is regularly featured at prestigious festivals including The Philadelphia Folk Festival, Denmark's Skagen Festival, Britain's Cropredy Festival and The Winnipeg Folk Festival in Canada. The band is also a mainstay at countless American Celtic festivals.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Sad News, Bret Douglas of Cairo has lost his battle with cancer

Jeff Brockman called Yesterday with the sad news.
Brett Douglas Stranne, 52, a popular Marin musician lost his battle with pancreatic cancer, passing away on Thanksgiving Day. Stranne has worked as church music director at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Novato. Known in the rock music industry as Bret Douglas, he was lead vocalist in Cairo, a band that has released three progressive-rock albums. Married with two college-age children, he lived in Novato, CA. Direct donations may be made at the Circle Bank branch in Novato, visit the website at brettstranne.com to leave positive thoughts for Bret's family.

 


Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Kansas Christmas Song: "The Light"

Steve Walsh wrote a special Christmas tune to record with Kansas just after they released the "Somewhere To Elsewhere" album.
Add "The Light" to your Holiday Compilations this Year.

Kansas - "The Light" on iTunes


Kansas - "The Light" on Amazon






Monday, November 7, 2011

"Force Ten" Rush tribute by Chris Pennie, Dave Martone, Shane Gibson

"Force Ten"

Chris Pennie (Dillinger Escape Plan, Coheed and Cambria) - Drums
Juan Alderete (Mars Volta) - Bass
Shane Gibson (Korn) - Guitar
Dave Martone - Guiatr
Robert Berry - Lead Vocals & Keyboards


























From the Rush tribute: "New World Man"


Friday, November 4, 2011

GWAR Guitarist Cory Smoot Passes Away

Gwar guitarist Cory Smoot (aka Flattus Maximus) is dead. His band members found him deceased this morning as they prepared to cross the Canadian border.

We at Magna Carta had the pleasure to work with Cory when he did the recording with Kris Norris for the "Guitars That Ate My Brain" album, and the Kris Norris Projekt - "Icons Of Illusion"


 



According to a press release the band provided to the blog Metal Sucks, Gwar's frontman David "Oderus Urungus" Brockie wrote:
It is with a sense of profound loss and tragedy that the members of GWAR must announce the passing of their long time guitarist and beloved friend Cory Smoot,  also known to thousands of metal fans worldwide as Flattus Maximus.  Cory was found deceased this morning as the band prepared for a border crossing.  There is no word as to the cause of death and the members of GWAR are completely shocked and devastated that this has occurred.  At this point there is no word on arrangements and the disposition of the remainder of GWAR’s current North American tour, nor are there any details regarding long term plans.  At this point we are just dealing with the loss of our dear friend and brother, one of the most talented guitar players in metal today.  We ask that our fans and the media be respectful of our request for privacy for those that have suffered this terrible loss.  A full statement will be coming in the next day or so, in the meantime please give your thoughts and your prayers to Cory, his family, and all the people that love him.
-Dave Brockie-



I am very saddened by the passing our friend Cory Smoot AKA Flattus Maximus of GWAR. He was an awesome dude & a great guitar player, as well as a talented engineer & producer. I recorded guest vocals for a few projects at his studio (The Kris Norris Projekt, the Jasta solo record) & as a friend he refused to take my money in payment for the sessions. Last session just gave me some killer tracks of HIS solo work and asked me I I ever had time to lay down some vocals for him. I really regret now not having had the opportunity to record those sessions with him. He was always fun to tour with, hang with, and we will be deeply missed, especially in our hometown of Richmond, VA. It was an honor to work with such a kind human being. My most sincere condolences to his wife, family, and the rest of the GWAR family. Rest in peace brother, I'll catch you on the flip side.     

Randy Blythe (Lamb Of God).      

Thursday, November 3, 2011

Tales From Yesterday - a tribute to Yes




Tales From Yesterday on iTunes

Tales From Yesterday For more than 25 years, the music of Yes has been thrilling music lovers throughout the world. Not only did this band create exciting new albums of incredible songs, it virtually invented an entirely new style of music... orchestral, symphonic, sometimes folk-influenced rock with lyrical content and social conscience. The band, Yes, and its musicians (both current and former) are still creating music today and have spawned new generations of musicians who have waited for an opportunity to thank their musical "fathers" for the creative energy that Yes inspires.
Now, "Tales From Yesterday... A View From The South Side of The Sky" gives the world an opportunity to hear past and current members of Yes as well as their musical offspring (both figurative and literal) re-create Yes material from new perspectives and with wisdom that only the passing of time allows.

Cover Painting and Logo Design by Roger Dean

Who Are the Performers?

01) Roundabout
Performed By Robert Berry
Robert Berry Instrumentation and Vocals
Steve Howe Guitar Cadenza

02) Siberian Khatru
Performed By Stanley Snail
Nick D'Virgilio Hi vox, Drums
Mike Keneally Mid vox, Guitars
Kevin Gilbert Lo vox, Keyboards
Bryan Beller Bass

03) Mood For A Day
Performed By Steve Morse

04) Don't Kill The Whale
Performed By Magellan
Trent Gardner Vocals and Keyboards
Wayne Gardner Guitars and Bass

05) Turn Of The Century
Performed By Steve Howe and Annie Haslam
Annie Haslam All Vocals
Steve Howe Acoustic Guitar
David A Biglin Keyboards

06) Release, Release
Performed By Shadow Gallery
Mike Baker Vocals
Carl Cadden-James Bass
Brendt Allman Guitars
Gary Wehrkamp Guitars and Keyboards
Chris Ingles Keyboards
Kevin Soffera Drums

07) Wonderous Stories
Performed By World Trade
Billy Sherwood Bass, Guitar, Keyboards and Vocals
Jay Schellen Drums

08)South Side Of The Sky
Performed By Cairo
Mark Robertson Keyboards
Jeff Brockman Drums
Alec Fuhrman Guitars
Bret Douglas Lead Vocals
Rob Fordyce Bass

09) Soon
Performed And Arranged By Patrick Moraz

10) Changes
Performed By Enchant
Douglas Ott Guitar and Keys
Paul Craddick Drums and Keys
Ted Leonard Vocals
Ed Platt Bass

11) Astral Traveler
Performed By Peter Banks
Peter Banks Guitar
Robert Berry Instrumentation and Arrangement

12) The Clap
Performed By Steve Morse

13) Starship Trooper
Performed By Jeronimo Road
Adam Wakeman Keyboards
Fraser Thorneycroft-Smith Guitars
Tony Fernandez Drums
Phil Williams Bass
Damian Wilson Vocals  

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Chris Pennie - YMCA OR TCBY

Chris Pennie from Coheed and Cambria / Dillinger Escape Plan sends us “YMCA Or TCBY”, a tune with an expansive, haunting intro devoid of drums. It raises the question: What would you do to enter effectively? Jump in with obligatory double bass drum? Chris shows admirable patience, waiting plenty of time before jumping to action. His bombastic, Bonham-ish phrasing is tightly in rein, jumping to the fore then gating down the next moment. Back to the repetitive keyboard pattern, then Chris is back on top of the beat with thrusting ride cymbal and well-positioned fills. Nasal keyboard patches zap across the synapses, punctuated by solo drum phrases.






From DRUM NATION Volume 3 on Magna Carta

 

Monday, October 31, 2011

What if the threat of global domination by shadow governments was real and impacting us every day?

What if, by employing space-age technology, these powers have programmed us to blindly obey?




Toronto-based quartet The Android Meme thinks it knows the answer to these burning questions and urges us to heed their warnings. With the release of their first full-length CD, Ordo Ab Chao, produced by Matthew von Wagner, The Android Meme might well be called rock and roll prophets, delivering a message the world needs to hear.







“A lot of what we talk about in our songs concerns conspiracy theories and the idea that society is being steered in different directions by forces beyond our control,” says lead vocalist/lyricist/founder Stefano Amelio. “Looking at the global stage, it’s difficult not to think that there’s some sort of New World Order afoot.”

Tracks such as “The Machine Stops”, “Sumii”, “Ordo Ab Chao”, “Left Right Parasite”, “Whistleblower” and “Stranger” range in topics from secret societies to secret government experiments. While not a concept record in the truest sense, Ordo Ab Chao explores the mystical realm of the unseen and largely unknown – an esoteric dimension represented by the rich Masonic symbolism adorning the CD’s cover artwork.


BUY ON iTUNES: Android Meme - Ordo Ab Chao

LISTEN ON YOUTUBE: Android Meme at Magna Carta

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Sly And The Family Stone - Jammed Out by The Cliniton Administration



The Clinton Administration - "Take You Higher"

Robert Walter revisits his Clinton Administration project, but with wholesale changes this time out. First off, the only players remaining from the first album are Walter and percussionist Chuck Prada, who team up with fusion jam band Garaj Mahal, drummer Stanton Moore (Galactic), and additional guitarists Michael Lee Firkins and Charlie Hitchcock. Secondly, rather than doing more George Clinton tunes, they shift the focus to the songs of Sly Stone.




the songs of Sly Stone are used as a template for some absolutely insane and inspired jamming. Drummer Stanton Moore keeps it cooking, and the slide guitarist just shreds. "Take you Higher", "Simple Song" and "Everybody is a Star" stand out, and Family Affair is just lovely -- beautiful changes and spare, restrained playing.



BUY "Take You Higher" NOW ON iTUNES

BUY "One Nation Under a Re-Groove" NOW ON iTUNES

Friday, October 14, 2011

Stripsearch with Josh Freese, Mike Elizondo and Michael Ward



Stripsearch - Stripsearch

Josh Freese (Devo, Vandals, A Perfect Circle, Weezer)
Mike Elizondo (Dr Dre, Mastadon)
Michael Ward (Wallflowers, Ben Harper)

Jason Freese (Vandals, Green Day, Afrika Bambaataa, A Perfect Circle)



combine to create percussion-driven, psychedelic, brain crushing sounds. Stripsearch detonate all instrumental tracks that are not for the musically faint of heart. Creating explosive soundscapes with dynamics that won't take "no" for an answer, the band travels on the same musical path as Tool and King Crimson's "Thrak".


BUY FROM iTUNES


BUY FROM AMAZON

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Glen Drover - Metalusion



Glen Drover: Metalusion

Glen Drover - Guitars, Jim Gilmour - Keyboards, Paul Yee - Bass,
Chris Sutherland - Drums



With the release of his solo debut, Metalusion, guitarist Glen Dover, best known for his precision and power playing with headbanger icons Megadeth and Eidolon, blends the venom and attack of modern metal and the technically demanding musicianship that defines the classic jazz-rock genre.


Download The Album Now

iTunes

Amazon

Monday, October 10, 2011

Jordan Rudess performs Gentle Giant with Ed Wynne and Bumblefoot


Jordan Rudess - "Just The Same"

Earmarked for a brilliant career as a classical pianist, Rudess was seduced by prog rock’s siren song and found his musical identity. “I remember hearing Gentle Giant’s Free Hand for the first time,” says an über-exuberant Rudess. “I totally, absolutely got into the song ‘Just the Same’. It is kind of like an anthem for me -- a song of freedom and personal rebellion.”


Vocals - Kip Winger
Guitar - (1st Solo) Ron "Bumblefoot" Thal
- (2nd Solo) Ed Wynne
Drums - Rod Mergenstein

BUY ON iTUNES:
http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/just-the-same/id261330718?i=261330983&uo=4

BUY ON AMAZON:
http://www.amazon.com/Road-Home-Jordan-Rudess/dp/B000TIO4TQ/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1318272026&sr=8-2




With the help of today’s leading prog talents (including friend/musical partner, Dixie Dregs drummer Rod Morgenstein), Rudess re-envisions Genesis’ 1976 jolting, jiggery-pokery gem “Dance on a Volcano” (with former Spock’s Beard frontman Neal Morse on vocals); ELP’s apocalyptic epic “Tarkus” (featuring Kip Winger and Porcupine Tree’s Steven Wilson); Yes’ fusion-esque, Minimoog/electric piano extravaganza “Sound Chaser” (from the oft-overlooked Relayer record); and the aforementioned “Just the Same” (featuring Kip Winger, Ron "Bumlefoot" Thal (Guns N' Roses), Ed Wynne (Ozric Tentacles), Rod Morgenstein (Dixie Dregs).

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

More Photos of Dave Martone and Glen Drover Live From Metalworks posted.



Magna Carta Recording Artists Glen Drover with Jim Gilmour on keys, Paul Yee on bass and Chris Sutherland on drums preforming during the historic webcast "Live At Metalworks" September 25 in Mississauga, Canada.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150310145495986.341836.50820955985

Friday, September 30, 2011

Magna Carta's Dave Martone and Glen Drover Webcast Give Aways!

The live webcast featuring Magna Carta artists Dave Martone and Glen Drover “Live At Metalworks” was a HUGE success!!! With visitors from 4 continents, 10 countries and thousands of hits during the webcast, Martone and Drover gained many new fans.

As a result, the Dean Guitar/D'Addario/Planet Waves has had THOUSANDS of entries. We appreciate all the interest and support that you have shown in this promotion.

To make things more interesting, Magna Carta has decided to make the contest more interesting by adding more prizes to the fun. Magna Carta will add 10 Dave Martone/Glen Drover Webcast Fun Packs to the prizes that can be won in the contest.



What is a Dave Martone/Glen Drover Webcast Fun Pack? It consists of a Dave Martone “Clean” CD; A Glen Drover “Metalusion” CD; A Magna Carta “Proud To Be A Guitar Geek” T-shirt and a Magna Carta Guitar Pick.

And to make things even more interesting, Magna Carta will send 5 of the Fun Packs to winners outside of the USA.

So, more winners equals more fun.

Enter at: http://live.magnacarta.net/guitarContestDetails.html

Thursday, September 22, 2011

New Magna Carta T-shirts Available Now!


New Magna Carta T-shirts Available Now!

Show That You're "Proud To Be A Guitar Geek"




Details:

"Free Shipping Within USA"

Men's shirts are 100% Cotton, Hanes Brand.
In Black with the Magna Carta logo on the front, and "Proud To Be A Guitar Geek" across the back.
Women's shirts are 100% Cotton, Port and Company Brand.
In Black with the Magna Carta logo on the front, and "Proud To Be A Guitar Geek" across the back.

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Dean Guitar and D'Addario Webcast Give Aways


Go on over to the http://live.magnacarta.net/
and enter for a chance to win a prize package from Dean Guitars and D'Addario.
Due to cost of shipping the prizes, this contest is only available for people in the USA and Canada.

The webcast is available Worldwide!
Be sure to tune in on Sunday September 25th for the Live Webcast from Dave Martone and Glen Drover!



The Dean Guitar

The ML was created by Dean Zelinsky in 1977 to be the guitar with ultimate sustain and tone. Created with the Dean concept of spreading the mass of the body over a large area, the MLX electric guitar has something more. Dean believes radical string angles add to the resonance that helps a guitar become more alive. The distinctive headstock creates extra long string length, giving the ML a sound like no other guitar! Played by many of rock's elite over the past two decades, the ML has appeared in award winning videos, on stage and album covers, and more importantly, on some of rock's finest recordings.

Features:

Basswood Body
24-3/4" Scale & 1-11/16" Nut
Grover Tuners
Chrome Hardware
Zebra Pickups
Tune-O-Matic Bridge
Bolt-on Construction
Maple Neck
Dot Inlays
22 Frets

The "D'Addario/Planet Waves Accessory Pack"

1 x 10-pack of EXL110 Light gauge guitar strings
1 x Pro Winder peg winder & string cutter
1 x 10-pack of Medium gauge Duralin guitar picks
1 x black guitar strap w/ leather ends
1 x polish cloth
1 x bottle of guitar polish, 4oz.
1 x Custom series instrument cable, 10-ft.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

YouTube Page Updates

Adding More New Videos and some from the vaults

http://www.youtube.com/user/magcart?feature=mhsn

Dave Martone - Attack of the Celery Crunchers

Alex Skolnick Trio - Mercury Retrograde

Wednesday, August 31, 2011

Dave Martone and Glen Drover Live Webcast on September 25th





On Sunday September 25, 2011 at 3 PM EDT* Magna Carta Recording artists Dave Martone and Glen Drover will take part in an historic performance that will be webcast worldwide as part of the “Live At Metalworks” series from Mississauga, Canada. The webcast can be seen at:

live.magnacarta.net

Magna Carta has long been known for being a leading independent label producing and distributing some of the best talent on the contemporary music scene with an emphasis on musical virtuosity. Both Dave Martone and Glen Drover have produced critically acclaimed albums for the label, showcasing their world class talents as guitarists and composers. Dave and Glen individually have developed fans and followers throughout the world who have been impressed with both their technical abilities and emotional depth as artists. Both guitarists will be backed by their own group of outstanding musicians making this both a showcase of amazing talent and an informal “clinic” for musicians around the globe.

Now Magna Carta will break ground by presenting both artists in a manner in which very few independent label artists have been seen: live webcasting with superior audio and video capabilities at no cost to the audience who will be able to receive the webcast worldwide. One of the foremost webcasting companies in this field, Orchard TV, will be providing these technological services.

“Live At Metalworks” refers to the Metalworks group of companies including award-winning Metalworks Studios the most renowned and recognized recording facility in Canada for more than 30 years. The September 25 webcast of Dave Martone and Glen Drover will be presented from the facility's newly completed North Auditorium.

The webcast will also be available as an archive on the Magna Carta website as well as clips being available on Youtube after the live webcast.

We invite everyone that has a love for guitar, guitar players, great musicianship, rock'n'roll, cutting edge technology and history made in front of your eyes.

Peter Morticelli, President of Magna Carta, says “With Dave Martone from Vancouver and Glen Drover from Toronto, we not only have two of the greatest guitar talents that Canada has ever produced but we have two musicians that have made their mark internationally. The September 25 webcast will allow both of these great players to showcase their abilities to the world via the internet. Magna Carta is proud to be able to present a milestone event such as this.”

live.magnacarta.net
www.magnacarta.net
http://davemartone.com/
www.glendroverband.com

*12 Noon - Los Angeles, USA
*3 PM - Toronto, Canada/ New York, USA
*8 PM - London, UK
*9 PM - Paris, France
*4 AM - Monday -Tokyo, Japan

Friday, August 12, 2011

Glen Drover review from Progressive Rock Brazil

GLEN DROVER - "Metalusion"
http://www.progressiverockbr.com

The guitar player Glen Drover is well known by the Metal community for his work on bands like “Eidolon”, “King Diamond”, and “Megadeth”. But an unknown musical facet of Drover has been hidden from the Metallic audiences: aside from being a technical, powerful and angry metal-axe destroyer, Drover is also an appreciator of the Jazz and Fusion genres, with a penchant for names like “Jean-Luc Ponty”, “Al Di Meola” and “Frank Zappa”. So, armed with his guitar axe, and counting with the help of the extraordinary musicians Jim Gilmore (keyboardist of “Saga”), Paul Yee (bass), and Chris Sutherland (drums), Glen Drover headed for a solo career. Supported by the Progressive Metal label Magna Carta Records, he released a fabulous debut album, titled “Metalusion” (April, 2011).

The album contains 10 instrumental tracks, half of which are covers of Drover’s favorite non-metallic musicians; and features special appearances of very special guests: the guitar players Vinnie Moore (“Vicious Rumors“, “UFO”), Fredrik Akesson (“Opeth”, “Talisman”), Chris Poland (“Ohm”, Megadeth”), Jeff Loomis (“Sanctuary”, “Nevermore”), and Steve Smyth (“Forbidden”). The sonority lays on the grounds of Metal-Fusion, paralleling the solo work of guitarists like “Vinnie Moore”, “Jason Becker”, “Marty Friedman”, “Tony McAlpíne“, “Joey Tafolla“, “Joe Satriani”, “Steve Vai”, “Yngwie Malmsteen”, “Paul Gilbert”, “Marc Bonilla”, and project-bands like “Liquid Tension Experiment”, “Planet X”, and “CAB”.

The opening tracks “Ground Zero” and “Frozen Dream” were co-written by Drover and Gilmour.
“Ground Zero” is an effervescent piece divided in two sections: the first one is heavy, dynamic and metallic, and the second one leans to a hard Prog-Fusion, with amazing participation of keyboards, bass and drums. This piece is crowned by two awesome guitar duels - first of Drover against Chris Poland, and later of Drover against Vinnie Moore.
“Frozen Dream” has a stronger Prog-Fusion lean than the preceding, and features Steve Smyth as second demolition guitar player. This piece reminds me of the solo works of both “Vinnie Moore” and “Joey Tafolla”, but with a stronger keyboard contribution.
Driven by breath-taking technical expertise, “Egyptian Danza” (“Al Di Meola’s” cover) gains in rage and lust, without loosing its essence. Paul Yee on bass is especially destructive here, exchanging incredible phrases with Drover, and making this track one of the best reinterpretations ever written for that classic.
The following track, “Colors of Infinity”, is light, calm and melodic, like a jazz-ballad in the style of “Vinnie Moore” and “Vai”, but containing a middle incursion of dark progressive keyboards.
The intro of “Illusions of Starlight” (co-written by Yee) brings “Rush” to mind, but this piece contains much more variation; including cool fusion passages on keyboards, and guitar riffs reminiscent of “John Petrucci’s” solo work.
The following two tracks are covers of “Jean-Luc Ponty”: “Don’t Let the World Pass You By” (featuring Fredrik Akesson) and “Mirage” (featuring Jeff Loomis). “Don’t Let…” is busted by the opulent duel of guitars and energetic keyboard solos, switching the original jazzy atmosphere for a metallic raging spirit, being supported by a still faster and powerful Heavy-Fusion rhythmic section.
On “Mirage”, in contrast, the Jazz-Fusion quality of the original piece was retained due to the perfect transmutation of the violin solos into guitar solos by means of the use of vibratos and modulation effects.
On “Ascension”, a soaring layer of pianos and beautiful synthesizers support a slow and melodic guitar theme, creating a dreamy and spiritual, mood.
The two last tracks of the record are covers of “Frank Zappa”, reinvented by Drover. “The Purple Lagoon” is short, slow, and heavy. It is the intro for “Filthy Habits”, transformed into a Heavy-Metal piece thanks to the slow tempo, dark atmosphere, heavy guitar riffing, perfect shredding technique, and exquisite elaboration of the main theme, sounding like a meeting of “Zappa” with old “Black Sabbath”.

Extraordinary and brilliant, Glen Drover’s “Metalusion” is one of the greatest releases of its kind, worthy of figuring in any collection of Neo-Classical or Metal-Fusion, being indispensable for fans of “Vinnie Moore”, “Jason Becker”, “Marty Friedman”, “Tony McAlpine“, “Joey Tafolla“, “Joe Satriani”, “Steve Vai”, “Yngwie Malmsteen”, “Paul Gilbert”, “Marc Bonilla”, “John Petrucci”, “Scott Henderson”, “Alex Skolnick“, “Greg Howe”, and so on.

Band members and collaborators involved in Glen Drover are: Glen Drover – Guitars; Jim Gilmore – Keyboards; Paul Yee – Bass; Chris Sutherland – Drums. Guest guitarists: Vinnie Moore, Fredrik Akesson, Chris Poland, Jeff Loomis, and Steve Smyth... (Comments by Marcelo Trotta)

XOpus review in Progressive Rock Brazil

X OPUS - "The Epiphany"
from http://www.progressiverockbr.com

The Symphonic Progressive Metal band X Opus comes from Plano, Texas (U.S.A.) The band is headed by multi-instrumentalist James Williams (guitar, bass, keyboards, backing vocals, and compositions). Williams is a talented and skilled musician that loves both Heavy Metal and Classical Music. As a guitarist, he was inspired by names like “Hendrix”, “Robin Trower”, “Gary Moore”, “Uli Jon Roth”, “Yngwie Malmsteen”, “Al Di Meola”, and “Shawn Lane”. As a composer, his sources are “Bach”, “Orff”, “Mozart”, “Stravinsky”, and “Paganini”.

The combination of his musical passions resulted in an explosive blend of Symphonic Metal, Power Metal, Prog-Metal, and Neo-Classical Metal that sounds much as bands like “Malmsteen”, “Angra”, “Adagio”, “Stratovarius”, “Queensrÿche”, “Helstar”, “Fates Warning”, “Iron Maiden”, “Apocrypha”, “Halloween”, “Nocturnal Rites”, “Morifade”, “Mind’s Eye” and “Symphony X”. Through his sole efforts, and with help of two vocalists - Brian Dixon and David Crocker – Williams worked between December 2009 and September 2010 at his “X Opus Studios” to record the songs that would make the core of his debut album, called “The Epiphany”. The material was written, arranged, produced, and mixed by Williams and mastered by Jim Brick at “Absolute Audio”, New Jersey. “The Epiphany” was released in May, 2011 by specialized Progressive label Magna Carta Records, and contains 10 tracks.

“Terrified” opens the album with terrific Neo-Classical guitar solo in “Malmsteen” style, descending later to a heavy cadence that reminds me of the pre-Prog-Metal bands of the Eighties, like “Helstar”.
It is followed by “On Top of the World”, a plain song formatted for live presentations that counts on the strength of its chorus.
Far better is “Pharaohs of Lies” – a symphonic Power-Metal with the vibration and energy of “Malmsteen“, “Adagio”, and vocals like “Judas Priest” – the middle section, with ultra-fast arpeggios, is breath-taking.
The fourth track is “I’ll Find the Truth”, and features the first appearance of Crocker on vocals, recalling me of bands like “Nocturnal Rites” and “Mind’s Eye”.
One of the best tracks is “In The Heavens”, which opens with Classical acoustic guitars, followed by a malevolent slower pace that reminds me of early “Malmsteen” and, again, of “Helstar”. The amazing guitar solo blends elements of Jazz-Fusion with Neo-Classic, showcasing a skillful Williams on the instrument.
“The Epiphany (Opus Benedictus Interlude)” is a symphonic interlude that reflects an “Orff-Stravinsky” inspiration. It marks the beginning of a sequence of killer tracks that go from the seventh (“I Will Fly”) to the last (“Never Forgotten”).
“I Will Fly” begins with Middle Eastern chords that open the way for an astonishing Symphonic Power-Metal, including malevolent vocals of David Crocker, torrents of guitar solos, and tons of razor-edged keyboards; all blending influences of “Adagio”, “Malmsteen”, “Symphony X”, “Dream Theater”, and early “Fates Warning”, especially on the final sequence, with piano and operatic vocals.
The destruction caused by “I Will Fly” is only surpassed by the apocalyptical “Forsaken (Requiem of the Forsaken)”, a 10-minute long Power-Prog piece with cataclysmic guitars, gloomy symphonic arrangements, and locomotive-breath rhythm, like the most raging moments of “Symphony X” and “Stratovarius”, on which volcanic sequences of beautiful guitar solos erupt from insane synthesizers; until the abrupt end with a portentous epic choir – an inspiration from “Mozart’s” Requiem – that represents the final celestial ascension through glassy Stairway to Heavens.
The album could end here, but there is still time to open the "Pandora’s Box" on “Angels of War” – a whirlwind Power-Metal track driven by Crocker’s “Halford”-like vocals. The fury released on “Angels…” is peacefully quenched by the instrumental chords of “Never Forgotten” – this one a gorgeous symphonic piece with angelical choirs, classical guitars, Fusion keyboards and Neo-Classical guitar solos – the ultimately closing track for this surprising album.

Regarding the fact that “The Epiphany” was supported by the individual talent of Williams and the two guest singers, it has resulted anyway in an impressive and extraordinary debut – capable of keeping veteran Metal-Heads banging on. With the support of Magna Carta, and the ingression of new integrants Jesse Gallegos (bass), Corbett Tucker (drums) and Matthew Bowers (keyboards), I am sure that the next X Opus’ album will be a classic of the genre. X Opus is highly recommended for fans of Symphonic Power-Metal, Neo-Classical Metal and Progressive-Metal.

Band members and collaborators involved in X Opus are: James Williams – Guitars, Bass, Keyboards, Backing Vocals; Brian Dixon – Lead and Backing Vocals; David Crocker – Lead and Backing Vocals (tracks 4, 7, 9); Jesse Gallegos – Bass; Corbett Tucker – Drums; Matthew Bowers - Keyboards... (Comments by Marcelo Trotta)

Android Meme track by track review


Android Meme
Ordo Ab Chao

Review by Gary Hill in Music Street Journal

there are some prog moments and prog elements at various times on the disc. I’d consider it closer to Tool than just about anything else.

Track by Track Review

The Machine Stops
Keyboards bring this in, then it seems about to fire into some metallic prog, but it settles into something closer to fusion. The metallic elements do rise up from there, but they drop it to a more stripped down techno meets prog arrangement for the verse. The cut runs through with that sound and the heavier ones bouncing off one another.

Sumii
While in some ways this piece is far more metal than the opener had been, it’s also got a lot of real progressive rock built into it. At times it’s not that far removed from something by Dream Theater.

Polar Rose
Mixing nu-metal with progressive rock, this is another tasty tune. This one does get a lot more into the pure metal side of things.

Sigma
This one is definitely almost all heavy metal. Sure, there are some prog elements here, but really this is not that far removed from the bulk of nu-metal out there. That said, it’s a great tune.

Ordo Ab Chao
Serious metal, including extreme vocals, bring this one out.

Left Right Parasite
Coming in extremely heavy, the vocals come with a real death metal scream. There are some prog keyboards and some weird timings here, but overall this is extremely creative and very tasty modern metal. It’s nothing close to generic or predictable, though, and is one of the coolest tunes on show here. There is a nearly pure progressive rock movement that appears later. The piece is one of the most dynamic on show and certainly one of the highlights.

Esoterika
Extremely heavy and dense, this is a powerful piece of music. It’s very much in keeping with something like Tool.

Spook
The main motif is heavy and hard rocking, but there is a drop back to mellower tones later in the piece.

Whistleblower
Incredibly heavy with major gothic textures, this is a real killer. There are definitely hints of shoegaze music here. Around the two and a half minute mark it fires out to a jam that’s quite prog-like.

Stranger
While this is extremely heavy and Tool-like, it does have some definite progressive rock-like tendencies. It turns extremely heavy later.

Monday, August 8, 2011

Glen Drover review in Stormbringer

A rough translation from the German website: http://www.stormbringer.at/reviews.php?id=6399&preview

The mixture can be probably best described as prog-metal. There's renowned support abound. Among other things, access Jeff Loomis (NEVERMORE), Fredrik Akesson (OPETH), Vinnie Moore (UFO) and Steve Smyth (FORBIDDEN) in the strings. Interestingly, we come full circle with Chris Poland (ex-MEGADETH).

"Every song should sound as if he were destined to land on the plate. Nothing should act inappropriately. "- Said Glen Drovers. I think that is exactly what he succeeded. The compositions need not be behind the cover to hide anyway. Although with "Filthy Habits" FRANK ZAPPA is my favorite of the entire disc is very consistent, never saves with exciting melodies and offers within the stylistic framework also enough variety.

I'm not a huge fan of instrumental albums, "Metalusion" can still inspire me. Honestly, I almost feel guilty about Glen Drover MEGADETH times have not been adequately addressed. Mega Dave had - as so often - a good hand. Glen makes both the shredding, as well as the jazzy and soulful sounds an excellent figure.


http://www.magnacarta.net/glendrover/index.html

Glen Drover review in Zicazic online

http://www.zicazic.com/zicazine/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=8222&Itemid=62

A rough translation of this review from Zicazic in France:

"the desire to bring the immensity of his talent to masterpieces such as "Egyptian Danza" (DiMeola), "Don't Let The World Pass You By" (Ponty) or "Filthy Habits" (Zappa) the guitarist is at every moment the very balance between the technical demonstrations and feel, delivering very inspired instrumentals like "Illusions Of Starlight" and "Ascension" and managing to make this album a progressive updating of this classic fusion. Would recommend to all lovers of beautiful guitars and beautiful sounds!"

http://www.magnacarta.net/glendrover

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

James Williams: X Opus debut release on Magna Carta

G E A R - M O N S T E R S —

Sure to be a big hit with fans of progressive metal, Dream Theater, Queensryche. The Epiphany, the debut CD from the symphonic metal band X Opus http://www.magnacarta.net/xopus/ , is a celestial blend of enigmatic lyrical threads and layered neoclassical metal. Tracks such as “Terrified”, “Forsaken” “On Top of the World”, “Pharaohs of Lies” and “In The Heavens"


http://magnacarta.net/XOpus

X OPus review from Shred Knowledge

X Opus "The Epiphany" is a New Debut Album by metal-prog multi-instrumentalist James Williams out of Texas, and I must say this is one album for the neo-classical music books.

The music is a master stroke of very heavy, melodic and progressive reverbnations .

The talented composer takes you on a fast paced, multi-faceted journey thru colorful symphonic keyboard rich settings and celestial landscapes. Each song on this CD is an Opus in it's own right.

The songs showcase James' talent and musical craftsmanship. The metal laden operatic vocals by Brian Dixon and David Croker are perfect for this type of music in the style of Ronnie James Dio, Geoff Tate and Apollo Papathanasio from the Greek band Firewind.


The music and impeccable guitar playing reminds me of Yngwie Malmsteen's muse ala his album Trilogy and others. The theme-matic headbanging compositions take you thru harmonious hills and dales all the while pushing the listener onward to sense-stimulating hamlets of azure. “You always hear about the healing powers of music,” says guitarist, multi-instrumentalist and X Opus leader James Williams.

“The Epiphany CD really sums up many of the trials and tribulations of my life and even my own belief system. Really, it’s the record I’ve waited my life to make.”


In a nut shell, X Opus can be described as an amalgamation of metal, rock, and classical mixed together to present a diverse style that is unique and appreciable. I highly recommend this majestic production to those who can't get enuff of their much needed neoclassic fix.

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

Glen Drover Review on Power Of Metal

Following a distinguished career with bands such as Eidolon, Megadeth and King Diamond, guitarist Glen Drover makes his solo debut with the instrumental “Metalusion”. Besides a number of guests that appear throughout the album, the core members of Glen’s band are: bass player Paul Yee, keyboardist Jim Gilmour (also of Saga) and Chris Sutherland (himself an ex-Saga session player) on drums.

The title is a reference to the Jazz Fusion covers that make up half the album and also reflects the genre-crossing inspirations of the original numbers. It’s an interesting format, even though “Metalusion” is essentially a Metal album.

The quality of the original numbers varies but on the whole this is one of the more satisfying instrumental guitar albums. ‘Colours Of Infinity’, for example, contains a bluesy vibe interweaved with some impressive shredding. This composition in particular exposes the exceptional ability of all the band members. ‘Ascension’ is another original number – one that reflects Glen’s admiration for Jean-Luc Ponty.

Speaking of whom, I felt one of the album’s best tracks is ‘Mirage’, a Ponty cover. The band members don’t seem excessively concerned with sounding note-by-note faithful to the original as much as they strive to convey the original version’s magical feel. Similarly, Glen’s version of Al DiMeola’s ‘Egyptian Danza’ is a spirited display of a complex but ultimately tender composition.

“Metalusion” is an excellent album that should be particularly appreciated by Metal fans into technically proficient music. Rest assured that the covers within it could be enjoyed even if the listener is not familiar with the original versions.

www.powerofmetal.dk

Friday, July 29, 2011

Goldmine Review: Glen Drover’s ‘Metalusion’ is a touch of class

Drover shreds all over “Ground Zero;” how could he not with early Megadeth guitarist Chris Poland and UFO’s Vinnie Moore helping out? But “Frozen Dream,” with an appearance by Forbidden guitarist Steve Smyth, aims more for prog majesty than metal domination. And then Drover takes Al DiMeola’s exotic “Egyptian Danza” from 1978 and gives it a riff-tastic makeover. Elsewhere, fusion and prog collide on “Colors of Infinity,” as well as on two Jean Luc Ponty covers (“Don’t Let the World Pass You By” and “Mirage”).

Read more reviews:
http://www.goldminemag.com/reviews/glen-drovers-metalusion-is-a-touch-of-class

Glen Drover interview on About.Com's Heavy Metal

Former Megadeth/Eidolon/King Diamond guitarist Glen Drover recently released a solo project. Metalusion is an instrumental album combining a few different genres. Drover fills us in on his new venture, memories of some of his previous bands, and what's in store for the future.

Chad Bowar: How did you go about putting together the band for your solo album?
Glen Drover: I called the drummer, Chris Sutherland, who is a good friend and great drummer about the idea to do an instrumental thing. He was very excited about this possibility and recommended two other friends, which turned out to be Jim Gilmour from Saga, and bass player extraordinaire Paul Yee.

Why did you decide to go the instrumental route?
I think because this is a form of music that I grew up with and love to listen to. It’s challenging and something that I really wanted to get into.

How did your songwriting process work?
Well, on this album, 4 songs are covers and the other 5 are originals. I wrote some of the material. Jim and Paul did as well and the whole thing just came together so well. I couldn’t be more happy!

How would you describe the genre/style of Metalusion?
I would say it’s a combination of metal, jazz fusion and prog. We have so many influences, but I think these three styles permeate the whole album.

Read the rest:
http://heavymetal.about.com/od/interviews/a/Glen-Drover-Interview.htm

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Glen Drover Praise From His Peers

“As if Glen Drover’s monster guitar chops weren’t enough, he also possesses a great sense of space and melody, making Metalusion an engaging listen from start to finish.
—Matt Blackett, Guitar Player Magazine

"Glen is a gifted guitar player who blurs the lines between metal, jazz, rock & fusion...put it in front of him and he'll shred em down!" - MIKE PORTNOY

“Glen Drover's "Metalusion" record is a barage of amazing guitar playing and a
sophisticated song writting. A true testament of Glen's musicianship"
-Scott Uchida: Jim Dunlop Mfg.

“With the release of Metalusion, Glen Drover has once again established himself as one of the best metal guitarists of our time. Flawless technique meets thoughtful songwriting, crafted with great guitar tones. And, he’s one of the very few people on the planet that can do justice to Al Dimeola.
-Frank Aresti, D’adarrio U.S.A.

“Glen Drover is one of best guitarists of his generation, walking the line between heavy metal and jazz fusion, playing both styles, and everything in between, with a master's touch.” -Mike Varney, Shrapnel Records.

"Metalusion sets the standard for instrumental music in this day and age by giving the shred a heart and soul. Glen Drover is a natural born singer; his voice just happens to have six strings." -Carl Begai, BW&BK

Android Meme on WeLoveMetal




Have you ever watched The Big Bang Theory and thought to yourself, “If these four guys listened to metal, what band would it be?” You haven’t? Me neither! But if you take a quick minute and think about it, what could three theoretical physicists and one engineer listen to in the metal of today if they wanted to do a little head banging? I have found the answer to this long (5 minute) sought after question: THE ANDROID MEME!

All kidding aside this Toronto based non-genre specific band has put together ORDA AB CHAO; an album that is based on conspiracy, governmental influence, and brainwashing. You will see what I mean from this little tidbit taken directly from their press release: “What if the threat of global domination by shadow governments was real and impacting us every day? What if, by employing space-age technology, these powers have programmed us to blindly obey?”


Read the rest: http://www.welovemetal.com

Monday, July 25, 2011

XOpus review on Shred Knowledge

X Opus "The Epiphany" Album Review
http://www.shredknowledge.com/

X Opus "The Epiphany" is a New Debut Album by metal-prog multi-instrumentalist James Williams out of Texas, and I must say this is one album for the neo-classical music books.

The music is a master stroke of very heavy, melodic and progressive reverbnations .

The talented composer takes you on a fast paced, multi-faceted journey thru colorful symphonic keyboard rich settings and celestial landscapes. Each song on this CD is an Opus in it's own right.

The songs showcase James' talent and musical craftsmanship. The metal laden operatic vocals by Brian Dixon and David Croker are perfect for this type of music in the style of Ronnie James Dio, Geoff Tate and Apollo Papathanasio from the Greek band Firewind.


The music and impeccable guitar playing reminds me of Yngwie Malmsteen's muse ala his album Trilogy and others. The theme-matic headbanging compositions take you thru harmonious hills and dales all the while pushing the listener onward to sense-stimulating hamlets of azure. “You always hear about the healing powers of music,” says guitarist, multi-instrumentalist and X Opus leader James Williams.

“The Epiphany CD really sums up many of the trials and tribulations of my life and even my own belief system. Really, it’s the record I’ve waited my life to make.”


In a nut shell, X Opus can be described as an amalgamation of metal, rock, and classical mixed together to present a diverse style that is unique and appreciable. I highly recommend this majestic production to those who can't get enuff of their much needed neoclassic fix.


GO CHECK IT HERE
http://magnacarta.net/XOpus

Friday, July 22, 2011

James Williams Talks About His Band X Opus with Sea Of Tranquility

With their debut CD The Epiphany out now on Magna Carta Records, progressive metal act X Opus are out to take the world by storm. Band leader, mastermind, and guitar stud James Williams talked to Sea of Tranquility's Simon Bray about the exciting new CD, his career in music, influences, and various other topics.



SoT: Myself and Peter Pardo played "spot the influences," in our reviews. We noted Queensryche and Symphony X amongst others. Were we correct and who are your main influences?

James: Actually as far as prog Metal its Symphony X{Micheal Romeo},Yngwie Malmsteen,Adagio,Nocturnal Rites and a little Pagans Mind.As far as my guitar influences, it was Hendrix first,then Robin Trower,Frank Marino,Al Di Meola,Gary Moore,Yngwie Malmsteen,Jeff Beck,Larry Carlton,Alan Holdsworth,Shaun Lane,Randy Rhoads.There are more but that should be enough (laughs).

SoT: On the album you have two lead vocalists, Brian Dixon and David Crocker. How did that work and how can we tell them apart?

James: It worked well because they sound alike! (laughs) However Brian has a more James LaBrie tone and David can sound closer to Dio at times.Lucky to have one great singer but two is not fair! (laughs) David sang on Ill Find The Truth,I Will Fly, and Angels Of War. Brain sang all the others with Brian and I sing background.I even sang the lead vocal line on the intro of one song,however I didnt credit myself for that on the inside cd jacket (laughs) Its a secret trivia question.I will tell you I sang the screamo vocals on the chorus of On Top Of The World!


Read The Entire Interview: http://www.seaoftranquility.org/article.php?sid=1891


Sound samples and more info: http://magnacarta.net/XOpus

Listen to the entire album on our YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/magcart#g/c/A42E2317C0550A61

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Glen Drover review on MetalPaths

"Influenced by Tony MacAlpine, Al Di Meola, Randy Rhoads, Greg Howe and many more great guitarists, that seem to appear through his unique style and performance, Glen Drover on “Metalusion” sets himself free of boundaries and offers us a handy guitar shredding and metal-ly fused album"

Read More:
http://www.metalpaths.com/reviews/glen-drover-metalusion,7014

More info:
http://www.magnacarta.net/glendrover/index.html

Bill Cutler's "Crossing The Line" Reviewed in the new issue of Expose

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

X Opus review on Power Of Metal




"both singers are technically brilliant, there’s no doubt about that. Similarly impressive are the guitar solos throughout the album, with melodies that seem very much influenced by Yngwie Malmsteen as well Classical composers such as Bach and Mozart."

www.powerofmetal.dk


More X Opus:
http://www.magnacarta.net/XOpus/index.html

Listen to the album:
http://www.youtube.com/magcart#g/c/A42E2317C0550A61

X Opus - The Epiphany review on Dangerdog




"The larger canvas of The Epiphany is melodic heavy metal with notes of power and progressive metal as well. Mostly, however, the entire tapestry is an outlet for Williams neo-classical guitar playing. You'll get this in very first minutes of the opening track Terrified where he show his substantial talent. This song along with the following On Top of the World and Pharoahs of Lies are ambitious mixtures of heavy and power metal. They're all fine songs, but melodic power metal with virtuoso guitar work as expected. I'll Find the Truth offers your first twist of interest: it's fast-paced quite catchy piece of straight melodic metal. Then Williams brings In The Heavens, a slow and steady song that reminds more of strict, slightly doom-laced, heavy metal."

The entire review:
http://www.dangerdog.com/2011-music-reviews/x-opus-the-epiphany-review.php


More X Opus:
http://www.magnacarta.net/XOpus/index.html

Listen to the album:
http://www.youtube.com/magcart#g/c/A42E2317C0550A61

Monday, July 18, 2011

Melodic.Net reviews the Android Meme



"Oh yes, we´re talking hi-tech prog in the same vein as Queensryche´s "Rage for order" and even I Mother Earth. I just adore this album from The Android Meme, they are a bit futuristic in their sound but also quite retro with some Rush influences which is major cool."

Read More:
http://www.melodic.net/?page=review&id=9753

Magna Carta July Newsletter: Meet The Android Meme

"You'll find several overarching concepts running through Ordo Ab Chao, helping to create a kind of cohesive narrative," says lead vocalist/lyricist/founder Stefano Amelio. "Our music is inherently visual. The symbols on the cover are important because they relate to how a listener will perceive this CD."

Hidden and double meanings abound on the record. For example, Ordo Ab Chao, which roughly translates to "order and chaos" (or order from chaos), is also an appropriate description of the band's music. By working in various musical styles, The Android Meme has created its own artistic identity. Ordo Ab Chao certainly offers something for everyone.

View The newsletter:
http://www.magnacarta.net/mailer14-07-11

"We wanted a well-rounded record," says Amelio. "Despite some of the individual songs being completely different stylistically, they all represent 'our sound.' I like the fact that we're difficult to label. I think that's our strength."

Listeners will hear influences of Tool, Genesis, Peter Gabriel, Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, Motley Crue and Rush.

Tracks such as "The Machine Stops", "Sumii", "Ordo Ab Chao", "Left Right Parasite", "Whistleblower" and "Stranger" range in topics from secret societies to secret government experiments. While not a concept record in the truest sense, Ordo Ab Chao explores the mystical realm of the unseen and largely unknown -- an esoteric dimension represented by the rich Masonic symbolism adorning the CD's cover artwork.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Grass Roots' lead singer, songwriter and bass player, Rob Grill has passed away at the age of 67

Sad news

Grass Roots' lead singer, songwriter and bass player, Rob Grill has passed away at the age of 67. His wife Nancy issued this ststmenet Monday Monring on his death:

My dear husband Robert Frank Grill, 67, of Mt Dora, Fl passed away peacefully in my arms at 11:37 a.m. (EST), while listening to one of his favorite songs…”Let’s Live for Today.” He loved his fans and he loved The Grass Roots! Thank you for all of your prayers, love and support during this time.

Nancy Grill



Tempest did their interpretation of the Grass Roots' hit single "Let's Live For Today" on their 'Another Dawn' album on Magna Carta.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M1g87YGhFVI

Monday, July 11, 2011

Android Meme review on Hard Rock Haven

"after playing the album a good number of times one realizes that the protagonist instrument is actually the vocals. Just about every instrument performance on Ordo ab Chao perfectly complies with the vocal melodies so, in a sense, their progressive nature serves as a vehicle for catchy hooks and memorable choruses."



Read the full review and more:
http://hardrockhaven.net/online/2011/android-meme-ordo-ab-chao/

Friday, July 1, 2011

Listen To Android Meme's "Ordo Ab Chao" on Magna Carta

Listeners will hear influences of Tool, Genesis, Peter Gabriel, Tears for Fears, Depeche Mode, Motley Crue and Rush.

http://www.youtube.com/user/magcart#p/c/AF3BBD3FDBC8F2A1


The Band:
Stefano S. Amelio: vocals, programming, big brother
Mathias Devereaux: guitars, vocals, synthesizers, illusions
Mark Davidson: big bad bass man, webmaster
Jake Hamilton: drums, sorcery



What if the threat of global domination by shadow governments was real and impacting us every day? What if, by employing space-age technology, these powers have programmed us to blindly obey?

Toronto-based quartet The Android Meme thinks it knows the answer to these burning questions and urges us to heed their warnings. With the release of their first full-length CD, Ordo Ab Chao, produced by Matthew von Wagner, The Android Meme might well be called rock and roll prophets, delivering a message the world needs to hear.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Listen to X Opus on the Magna Carta YouTube Channel

Audio clips of the new X Opus - "The Epiphany" album on Magna Carta.

http://www.youtube.com/magcart#p/c/A42E2317C0550A61



The Epiphany, the debut CD from the symphonic metal band X Opus, is a celestial blend of enigmatic lyrical threads and layered neoclassical metal. Tracks such as “Terrified”, “Forsaken” “On Top of the World”, “Pharaohs of Lies” and “In the Heavens” are haunting yet radiant musical vignettes, imbued with the power of spiritual transformation.

While traces of Hendrix, Symphony X and J.S. Bach can be detected throughout the 10- track CD, X Opus has shaped a dense musical landscape pockmarked by major plateaus and minor gullies. The combination of doomy chord changes, bombastic compositional grandness, the flavor of Middle Eastern scales, and lyrical themes, based on the redemptive nature of faith, is enough to send chills up and down your spine.

http://magnacarta.net/XOpus/index.html

We have a winner in the Glen Drover Guitar Contest

And the winner of the Glen Drover Guitar Solo contest sponsored by Magna Carta and Dean Guitars is...Kelly Kereliuk!


http://magnacarta.net/GlenDroverGuitarContest/

Congratulations to Kelley Kereliuk on his fine entry and exceptional ability. Kelly will receive a great package of prizes from Dean, D'Addario and Magna Carta."

Glen had a tough decision when choosing the winner of this contest because there were so many strong entries. Glen also chose 5 runners up in the contest who will receive signed copies of Glen's new album, "Metalusion", along with some other goodies from Magna Carta.
"I want to thank all you guys for your entries in this contest. Lots of great stuff in the videos I had reviewed here, and I really had fun watching all the players involved. Congrats to Kelly Kereliuk and our 5 runner ups!"
- Glen Drover

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Win A Dean Guitar from Glen Drover and Magna Carta



Grand Prize: A "one off" Dean silver vendetta, with EMG pickups and original floyd rose finish; and from D’Addario: a box (10 sets) of strings, cable, a headstock tuner, and some polish for the new Dean Guitar.



• STEP 1: Download the mp3 of "GroundZero"
• STEP 2: Video yourself playing your solo over the Ground Zero backing tracks*
• STEP 3: Upload your video to Youtube
• STEP 4: Email your YouTube video link along with your name to: contest@magnacarta.net

Glen will pick his favorite on June 15, 2011. The grand prize winner will receive the Dean Guitar and D’Addario string package.

http://magnacarta.net/GlenDroverGuitarContest/index.html

X Opus debut on Magna Carta



The Epiphany, the debut CD from the symphonic metal band X Opus, is a celestial blend of enigmatic lyrical threads and layered neoclassical metal. Tracks such as “Terrified”, “Forsaken” “On Top of the World”, “Pharaohs of Lies” and “In the Heavens” are haunting yet radiant musical vignettes, imbued with the power of spiritual transformation.

Visit The X Opus page for sound samples: http://magnacarta.net/XOpus/

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Former MEGADETH/KING DIAMOND guitarist Glen Drover was interview

Former MEGADETH/KING DIAMOND guitarist Glen Drover was interviewed for a recent edition of “Rockin’ Metal Revival”. You can now stream the entire three-hour program in three parts below.

http://magnacartarecordsnews.wordpress.com/2011/04/20/former-megadeth-guitarist-glen-drover-newz-reviewz/

Friday, April 1, 2011

Glen Drover review in CashBox



Glen Drover

Metalusion

Magna Carta


"Hi folks out there in musica-land once again... I just received this awesome instrumental CD from Magna Carta Records called "Metalusion" from progressive shred-guitarist Glen Drover, best known for his precision and power playing with the award-winning metal band Megadeth and Eidolon. Mister Drover's incredible guitar playing is very diverse and overlaps both genres of extreme instrumental music with progressive fusionistic music. He uses ambient sounds to aurally transport you to and from each harmonic galaxy at the flick of a fast arppegiated lick."


Friday, February 11, 2011

X Opus signs to Magna Carta

X Opus will be releasing their new album, "The Epiphany" on Magna Carta Records.
Check out sound samples on the X Opus website: xopusband.com




"The Epiphany" is the creation of James Williams (Guitarist, Composer, Producer and Soul of X Opus).

James has appeared in Guitar Player Magazine with Mike Varney, who said "James' impressive guitar pyrotechnics are highlighted by arpeggios, speed picking, vibrato and guitar harmonies that work together to create inspiring high level passages that sometimes remind me of Yngwie Malmsteen".

X Opus has found their own sound with classical interludes which remind one of Mozart, Beethoven and Stravinsky woven between catchy hooks reminiscent of Symphony X, Adagio/Nocturnal Rites.

Cover artwork was created by Bob Hobbs: www.moordragonarts.com

Thursday, January 20, 2011

Dave Martone pics on tour with Joe Satriani





Some cool pics from Dave.

Hey Dan
Set list was:
Goodie Squigge Song
Bossa Dorado
Angel Fish
Devil Went Down to Georgia
Got Da Blues
Dinky Pinky


We were playing for 30 min.
All dates we received standing ovations as the support act! Unheard of!