Artist: Cruelty Free Song: Fall CD: Head South Genre: rock/alternative Label:Independent Homepage
BIO:
While living in Los Angeles, Corey Bates spent his time writing songs late nights in his truck at the Santa Monica Mountains. "I felt like I needed to be completely secluded and let the inspiration flow, so I would sit in the cab of my truck with a flashlight, guitar and lyric pad and just write for hours" recalls Bates. He decided to return to his home state of NY and find the perfect bandmates that would compliment the music; recruiting the ambiguous and talented Sir Hook and drummer Stix (Scott).
Even before playing their first show, music supervisors showed interest in the music Corey had written and his songs began to show up on HBO, Pay-Per-View and PBS. Also, the band is enjoying a bit of "cult-status" as their song 'Alternate Lifestyle' was placed in Dane Cook's Tourgasm series and later on the soundtrack alongside rock heavy weights Wolfmother.
Cruelty Free is not about contriving a sound. There are vast influences that may seem to be polar-opposites of each other, such as Depeche Mode, Foo Fighters, Dead Can Dance, Failure, Weezer and Jeff Buckley.
The music can be melancholy, deep, high-energy, sarcastic, and seem to originate from an altered state of consciousness. If there is a philosophy behind the sound, it is that the music should take many turns as did the music of Led Zepplin or The Beatles. Corey, Scott and Hook all have years experience playing, writing, recording and performing. One would think the tendency for such a group would be to use that experience and develop a "formula"...but that is not the case here.
Part of what drives the band is choosing to let things happen organically rather than settle for the "flavor-of-the-month" sound. In an industry that is littered with songwriting clinics and music industry "how to" books, it is seemingly too easy to fall into the trap of choosing a sound. Simply put, Cruelty Free is a band that is constantly evolving outside of its boundaries of guitar-driven, alt pop!
CONTACT:
Corey Bates
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www.crueltyfreemusic.com
www.myspace.com/crueltyfreemusic
585-278-7656
Craig Hook
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585-301-5752
"...later on a nu-metal-ish band called O.A.T.H. played on the big stage, and they successfully dial in that arena Ozzfest metal guitar tone to good effect. The song "The Fear" shows off the vocalists range, which is accented by punching high notes. At times they sound real melodic, kinda like a heavier Anberlin. Very hook-laden. Other times they sound dynamic, a la System Of A Down. They have the muscle and power of a big league metal band, and it's always good to hear that quality amidst a showcase of varying talented independent artists."
HM Magazine Review
-Doug Van Pelt
CONTACT:
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Artist: Ben Okafor Song: Africa Will Be CD: Child of Biafra Genre: alternative Label:Plankton Records Homepage
HEIRCHEX PRESIDENT'S COMMENT!
BEN OKAFOR is a man of God ... created to share his evocative voice not to only ENTERTAIN ... but to EDUCATE and INSPIRE people all over the world.
In the past 25 years, Ben has raised social consciousness through his music by sharing his own history and testimony as a child soldier. His special focus is directed towards the powerful use of the arts to communicate and educate. His global reputation encapsulates Ben's ability to challenge and empower people to use their intellect, in conjunction with their artistic skills in order to better express their opinions on global issues peacefully and effectively.
I am very blessed to be able to offer to you the genius that I know as Ben Okafor! I feel very much like the disciples must have felt when they went out with the Good News ... bringing an alternative way of life to people that so desperately needed a new source of refreshment!
Ben is an internationally-acclaimed progressive, African Reggae/World-beat artist, yet ... I have made a decision to label all of Ben's music ... "alternative" because in my heart ... his message, his heart, his musical genius is an alternative to everything else! There is a profound simplicity and immeasureable depth to his lyrics that must be savored ... and I am blessed to share the Good News of Ben Okafor with you ...
In His Grip, Samme Palermo; CEO/President HeirChex Digital Servicing
CONTACT INFORMATION:
BEN OKAFOR:
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INTERNATIONAL COORDINATOR
PAULA BRAGG:
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Phone Office: 912-764-3584
Phone Cell: 912-541-2531
Fax: 203-724-3584
ARTIST MANAGEMENT
ODI OKAFOR:
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Phone Office: +27 11-792-1642
Phone Mobile: +27 73-112-2188
RECORD COMPANY
ROADSWEEPER RECORDS:
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8E-F St Ann's Road,
Malvern, Worcs.
United Kingdom
WR14 4RG
Phone: +44 1684 579125
Website: www.roadsweeper.org
LICENSED TO
PLANKTON RECORDS
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Phone Office: 011.44.208.534.8500 (International)
Phone Cell: 208.534.8500 (UK)
Website: www.planktonrecords.co.uk
Artist: The Awakening (South Africa) Song: Descent CD: Razor Burn Genre: alternative Label:Intervention Arts Homepage
Paranormal Dark-Future-Gothic-Rock from South Africa since 1995. Check out our official site www.awakening.co.za for full biog, discography, pics etc. Ashton Nyte - Vocals & Guitar Frankie Clark - Bass & Keyboards Marcus van der Tuin - Guitar Johan Strydom - Drums
Joy Whitlock is a study in contrasts. From her petite frame roars a commanding voice that is vulnerable, yet fearless. She speaks in short, well-measured phrases; her colorful tattoos underscoring her commitment to art and truth. Joy grew up as a pastor's kid, but wanted nothing to do with Christianity for most of her life. Now, her music communicates an authentic and passionate spiritual journey.
At 17, Joy and her family moved from Mississippi to Memphis, and it has since been her home. Shortly after relocating, her older sister let her tag along to the Lilith Fair women's music festival in Nashville. Joy remembers,
"The whole trip was amazing! I had always loved music, but not until that night did I realize how much a part of me it was. The last performer was Sarah McLachlan. When she stepped out of the darkness into a single beam of light, the most beautiful sound came out of her mouth. Tears immediately formed in my eyes. I was mesmerized ... paralyzed. Every word, every note, every stroke of her guitar awakened something inside of me."
Inspired by such a captivating performance, Joy was determined to learn how to play the guitar. Although she had never played one in her life, Joy called her parents the next day and asked them to help her buy one. They went down to Strings & Things, bought a cheap Fender acoustic--which she still has and loves-and began her life as a musician. She recalls, "I started watching other player's hands and tried to mimic what I saw. Most of my learning was just practice and finding chords and then remembering where they were. I still can't read music. I play by ear...and heart."
RADIO CONTACTS!!
Dan Michaels (
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Artist: Mary-Kathryn Song: Incense of Praise CD: Dreams & Visions Genre: alternative Label:Rhythm House Records Homepage
Mary-Kathryn, known for creating strongly sacred and spiritual vocal music, dreams of world unity and has visions of all humankind fully-accepting each other’s traditions, languages and religious beliefs. Thus the title of her fourth album, Dreams & Visions, encourages everyone to have faith in the future.
“People need to appreciate everyone else and understand that diverse cultures and a different heritage makes our world a much more colorful and interesting place,” says Mary-Kathryn. “No one should have to hide their beliefs or apologize for who they are. We might even find common goals such as pushing for peace or caring for the planet. We are all on a spiritual journey and should respect each other.”
Mary-Kathryn is a unique voice in the popular and rapidly-growing “New Age/New Thought movement.” She is one of today’s few musical artists to sing deeply spiritual lyrics over a world music-influenced sound that also includes elements of new age and adult pop. Mary-Kathryn has built a loyal following that appreciates her gentle yet passionate vocals, the mysticism of her music and the prophetic nature of her lyrics which have a broad-based sacredness to them.
Artist: Jesse Sprinkle Song: Mr. Toad's Wild Ride CD: Unnoticed Genre: alternative Label:Blind Records Homepage
While primarily known as the drummer for national recording artist Dead Poetic, Jesse Sprinkle has also released a number of solo records as a singer-songwriter in the past ten years. The Seattle, Washington native was thrust into the music industry over a decade ago as the drummer for the legendary underground group Poor Old Lu. Since the band disbanded in 1996, Jesse has been the drummer for acts such as Demon Hunter, Michael Knott, Denison Witmer, Kutless, Starflyer 59, The Lashes and many others. In addition to recording and touring with Dead Poetic, Jesse stays busy as a songwriter, producer/recording engineer and is also the drummer for Rochester, N.Y. band Burning Daylight. Jesse is currently preparing to record his next full-length solo album due out early next year.
Artist: Ashton Nyte and the Accused Song: Violent Complex CD: Headspace Genre: alternative Label:YoungSide Records Homepage
Soon after The Awakening's return to South Africa from their Darker Than Silence World Tour at the end of 2004, Ashton set about looking for new ways to release his prolific creative drive. Ashton Nyte And The Accused is the result!
This five piece band was finally unveiled on Saturday, July 16th at a CD release party for their debut album "HEADSPACE", at Cafe Barcelona in Pretoria, South Africa.
When asked to comment on the first radio single, 'My little rock 'n roll', South Africa TUKSFM's DJ, Yarik, was heard to say: "Absolutely astonishing!
Ashton Nyte goes through a musical and artistic re-invention while staying true to his roots. Goth influences are combined with indie and brit-pop elements to create something brand new and previously unheard.
Ashton's voice is at its best and the musicality is brought to the next level. Definitely one of the best and catchiest singles I've heard this year. Can't wait for the full album."
The official line up for Ashton Nyte And The Accused is: Ashton Nyte - Vocals/Guitar Frankie Clark - Bass/Backing Vocals Matthew Fink - Guitar Katherin Hunt - Violin/Keyboards Warrick Poultney - Drums
Artist: Beauty For Ashes Song: Savior CD: My Secret Sin Genre: alternative Label:Youngside Records Homepage
Often characterized as a dark version of U2, Beauty For Ashes draws its inspiration from a variety of influences, including The Cure (Disintegration era), mid-late 70s Bowie, Pink Floyd, and early/mid-80s new-wave and alternative. However, unlike other dark bands who wallow in tearful sentimental verse and tones of hopelessness, Beauty For Ashes considers their work ministry. Front man vocalist/keyboardist Joseph Cuozzo unashamedly admits his adoration for the Lord.
The band recently completed their first full-length album, "My Secret Sin" with David Amlen of Sound on Sound Recordings (Manhatten). "Throughout this album, Beauty For Ashes eschews the ostentatious rock or dance sound, enthralling the listener with a deeply personal and stripped-down elegance. Like two sides of the same coin, there is a balance between dark resonance on one side and a distinctively vocalized testimony of faith on the other. Know that even on the edge of the abyss of sorrow, there is salvation to be found in Jesus Christ, who wants to wash away all your secret sins" writes Richard Maaranen, of Automata in a recent review of the album.
Formed in 2000, the members of Beauty For Ashes reside in the New YorkMetropolitan area. The Band continues to build a passionate and devoted fan-base in the tri-state area and throughout the rest of the US, and Europe.
Beauty For Ashes is:
Ed Avila: Bass
Joseph E. Cuozzo: Vocals, Keyboards
John Hummel: Percussion
John Citarelli: Guitar
Artist: Wales Road Song: Snake Hisses and Judas Kisses CD: Snake Hisses and Judas Kisses Genre: Alternative Label:Spun Records Homepage
Tommy Wales is a prolific recording artist from Rochester, NY . He is the founder and front man of the Christian Rock Band WALES ROAD,capably handling vocals,guitar,harmonica and songwriting duties. Steve Rousseau (bass) and Bobby Stahlbrodt (drums) round out the current line up.
Wales Road have been impressing Western New York music fans for years, playing churches,colleges,clubs and festivals with zeal.
Frank DeBlase, Music Editor of CITY Magazine, describes Wales Road tunes as ranging from "...riff-loaded heavy rock & power ballads to pop-esque ditties to acoustic/electric blues..." Michelle Picardo of Free Time Magazine dubs the band "...taking metallic punk to heavenly heights...". Wales Road\'s ballads reflect a kinder-gentler musical side and are penned with emotional and spiritual intimacy.
Wales Road tunes chart extensively on the Independent Christian Rock Radio Charts, including two #1 Hit Singles ('Candleshine' and 'Glimpses'). 'Glimpses' was 1997 Song of The Year for Unsigned Artist on Uncle Samoo's Zoo (WITR 89.7 FM). Wales Road tunes receive radio airplay on The Calvary Satellite Network, over 300 radio stations nationwide.
Tommy Wales appeared in City Magazine\'s featured cover story 'Rock'n'Roll Soul: The Wales Road to Heaven'. Wales Road listed in Free Time Magazine's Top 10 Indie albums three years in row: 'BLuR' in 2004, 'Praying Mantis' in 2005 and 'Snake Hisses and Judas Kisses' in 2006. L.David Wheeler, Sunday Editor of The Daily Messenger pens: "...Wales Road maintains a high standard of musicianship and lyrical development, much like Phil Keaggy ,Jars of Clay,The 77's and REZ..."
Tommy Wales wears his heart on his sleeve in his lyrics, with the belief that if he is honest about his own struggles, he is able to communicate the Mercy of God. With a guitar slung over his shoulder and a song in his heart for his King, Tommy prays his music bless the ears and hearts of those who listen.
Although the lineup has varied down through the years, one thing has remained consistant: Tommy Wales is a man who is passionate about reflecting his Faith in the midst of a fallen world through his Audio Art.
CONTACT:
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Artist: Wales Road Song: Pretty Obvious CD: Snake Hisses and Judas Kisses Genre: alternative Label:Spun Records Homepage
Tommy Wales is a prolific recording artist from Rochester, NY . He is the founder and front man of the Christian Rock Band WALES ROAD,capably handling vocals,guitar,harmonica and songwriting duties. Steve Rousseau (bass) and Bobby Stahlbrodt (drums) round out the current line up.
Wales Road have been impressing Western New York music fans for years, playing churches,colleges,clubs and festivals with zeal.
Frank DeBlase, Music Editor of CITY Magazine, describes Wales Road tunes as ranging from "...riff-loaded heavy rock & power ballads to pop-esque ditties to acoustic/electric blues..." Michelle Picardo of Free Time Magazine dubs the band "...taking metallic punk to heavenly heights...". Wales Road's ballads reflect a kinder-gentler musical side and are penned with emotional and spiritual intimacy.
Wales Road tunes chart extensively on the Independent Christian Rock Radio Charts, including two #1 Hit Singles ('Candleshine' and 'Glimpses'). 'Glimpses' was 1997 Song of The Year for Unsigned Artist on Uncle Samoo's Zoo (WITR 89.7 FM). Wales Road tunes receive radio airplay on The Calvary Satellite Network, over 300 radio stations nationwide.
Tommy Wales appeared in City Magazine's featured cover story 'Rock'n'Roll Soul: The Wales Road to Heaven'. Wales Road listed in Free Time Magazine's Top 10 Indie albums three years in row: 'BLuR' in 2004, 'Praying Mantis' in 2005 and 'Snake Hisses and Judas Kisses' in 2006. L.David Wheeler, Sunday Editor of The Daily Messenger pens: "...Wales Road maintains a high standard of musicianship and lyrical development, much like Phil Keaggy ,Jars of Clay,The 77's and REZ..."
Tommy Wales wears his heart on his sleeve in his lyrics, with the belief that if he is honest about his own struggles, he is able to communicate the Mercy of God. With a guitar slung over his shoulder and a song in his heart for his King, Tommy prays his music bless the ears and hearts of those who listen.
Although the lineup has varied down through the years, one thing has remained consistant: Tommy Wales is a man who is passionate about reflecting his Faith in the midst of a fallen world through his Audio Art.
CONTACT:
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Artist: A Cold Vein Song: Murder and Regret CD: Everything Leads To Erosion Genre: alternative Label:Independent Homepage
Yet another project from the multi-talented Mr. Jesse Sprinkle. Formed in the spring of \'05 A Cold Vein consists of singer/songwriter Jesse Sprinkle (Dead Poetic, Poor Old Lu, TFK), singer/screamer Ben Taft (November Grey, And So This Ends), guitarist Bill York (Morella\'s Forest, Rocket to Luna), drummer Matt Doty (Shelflyfe, And So This Ends) and bassist Doug Little (And So This Ends, Everything\'s Ruind). CONTACT: Jesse Sprinkle
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Artist: The Awakening Song: Arrow CD: Razor Burn Genre: Alternative Label:Intervention Arts Homepage
Paranormal Dark-Future-Gothic-Rock from South Africa since 1995. Check out our official site www.awakening.co.za for full biog, discography, pics etc. Ashton Nyte - Vocals & Guitar Frankie Clark - Bass & Keyboards Marcus van der Tuin - Guitar Johan Strydom - Drums USA Radio Contact: Arlene Marais General Manager of YoungSide Records.
Artist: Beauty For Ashes Song: Dark Days CD: My Secret Sin Genre: alternative Label:YoungSide Records Homepage
Often characterized as a dark version of U2, Beauty For Ashes draws its inspiration from a variety of influences, including The Cure (Disintegration era), mid-late 70s Bowie, Pink Floyd, and early/mid-80s new-wave and alternative. However, unlike other dark bands who wallow in tearful sentimental verse and tones of hopelessness, Beauty For Ashes considers their work ministry. Front man vocalist/keyboardist Joseph Cuozzo unashamedly admits his adoration for the Lord.
The band recently completed their first full-length album, "My Secret Sin" with David Amlen of Sound on Sound Recordings (Manhatten). "Throughout this album, Beauty For Ashes eschews the ostentatious rock or dance sound, enthralling the listener with a deeply personal and stripped-down elegance. Like two sides of the same coin, there is a balance between dark resonance on one side and a distinctively vocalized testimony of faith on the other. Know that even on the edge of the abyss of sorrow, there is salvation to be found in Jesus Christ, who wants to wash away all your secret sins" writes Richard Maaranen, of Automata in a recent review of the album.
Formed in 2000, the members of Beauty For Ashes reside in the New York Metropolitan area. The Band continues to build a passionate and devoted fan-base in the tri-state area and throughout the rest of the US, and Europe.
Beauty For Ashes is:
Ed Avila: Bass
Joseph E. Cuozzo: Vocals, Keyboards
John Hummel: Percussion
John Citarelli: Guitar
Artist: The Awakening Song: Razor burn CD: Razor Burn Genre: alternative Label:Intervention Arts Homepage
Paranormal Dark-Future-Gothic-Rock from South Africa since 1995.
Check out our official site www.awakening.co.za for full biog, discography, pics etc.
Ashton Nyte - Vocals & Guitar
Frankie Clark - Bass & Keyboards
Marcus van der Tuin - Guitar
Johan Strydom - Drums
