Press Releases Archives

December 2, 2022

EVA UNDER FIRE Adds Vocals to “O Holy Night” Track Featured on ‘THE RETALIATORS’ Official Motion Picture Score

DT: DECEMBER 2, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, MITCH SCHNEIDER / SRO PR

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EVA UNDER FIRE
ADDS HOLIDAY SPIRIT TO NEW VERSION OF
‘THE RETALIATORS OFFICIAL MOTION PICTURE SCORE’ TRACK
“O HOLY NIGHT”
COMPOSED BY KYLE DIXON & MICHAEL STEIN (‘STRANGER THINGS’)

“O HOLY NIGHT (FEAT. EVA UNDER FIRE)”
OUT TODAY, DECEMBER 2

STREAM HERE
ENTER TO WIN A FREE DOWNLOAD HERE

Just in time for the holiday season, THE RETALIATORS has shared an enchanting version of the classic Christmas carol “O Holy Night” which is featured in the horror-thriller film’s official score by Emmy-winning composers KYLE DIXON and MICHAEL STEIN (“Stranger Things”). The new version features EVA UNDER FIRE’s Amanda Lyberg on vocals who has a guest role in the movie and whose band EVA UNDER FIRE have a song (“Blow”) on THE RETALIATORS OFFICIAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK.

“O Holy Night (ft. EVA UNDER FIRE)” is available today, December 2, via BETTER NOISE MUSIC on all digital platforms at https://theretaliators.ffm.to/oholynight. For a chance to win a free digital download of the track, enter HERE.

“Christmas is my favorite holiday, so you better believe when someone asks me to sing a pretty Christmas classic, I’m going for it,” shares Amanda. “Especially if it’s for a movie I’m in, singing an arrangement by the ‘Stranger Things’ composers!”

After a hugely successful Global Film Festival run leading into a global theatrical release THE RETALIATORS (Better Noise Films) is currently available everywhere movies are rented and streamed including iTunes, Amazon, Vudu, Comcast and Verizon. Buy/rent it now at https://theretaliators.ffm.to/vod. Set around the holiday season, THE RETALIATORS shares the based-on-a-true-story tale of an upstanding pastor whose faith is tested when he uncovers a dark and twisted underworld while searching for answers surrounding the brutal murder of his daughter.

THE RETALIATORS stars MICHAEL LOMBARDI (FX’s ‘Rescue Me,’ ‘The Deuce’) and MARC MENCHACA (‘Ozark,’ ‘Black Mirror’) and “blends horror with rock music to tell an intriguing story” (Bloody Disgusting). Appearing on-screen are chart-topping rock musicians such as TOMMY LEE (MÖTLEY CRÜE), SPENCER CHARNAS (ICE NINE KILLS), IVAN MOODY and ZOLTAN BATHORY (FIVE FINGER DEATH PUNCH) and JACOBY SHADDIX (PAPA ROACH). They are all also featured on the official soundtrack along with several other top rock acts including NOTHING MORE, THE HU, ASKING ALEXANDRIA, ESCAPE THE FATE, EVA UNDER FIRE, CORY MARKS, HYRO THE HERO, CLASSLESS ACT and more. Leading up to the release of the film’s soundtrack and score, THE RETALIATORS shared music videos several of its tracks which included footage from the movie. These videos have resulted in over 150 million views on YouTube alone. Watch a playlist with all of the videos included HERE.

Stream/download THE RETALIATORS OFFICIAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACKat https://theretaliators.ffm.to/retaliatorssoundtrack.

Stream/download THE RETALIATORS OFFICIAL MOTION PICTURE SCORE at https://theretaliators.ffm.to/score

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For more details on THE RETALIATORS, THE RETALIATORS ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SOUNDTRACK and THE RETALIATORS ORIGINAL MOTION PICTURE SCORE, please visit:
Website | Instagram | Twitter |Facebook | TikTok

SRO PR Assets: sropr.com/portfolio/the-retaliators

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider – mschneider@sropr.com

November 30, 2022

Designer + Photographer GRAHAM JOHN BELL Impacting Now with “HOME OF THE BRAVE” Gender-Fluid Streetwear Collection

DT: NOVEMBER 30, 2022

FM: MITCH SCHNEIDER/SRO PR

“HOME OF THE BRAVE” GENDER-FLUID STREETWEAR COLLECTION
FEATURING EXCLUSIVE PHOTOS BY PHOTOGRAPHER GRAHAM JOHN BELL

DEBUTED AT NEW YORK FASHION WEEK (2022),
WITH MORE APPEARANCES ON RUNWAYS IN NEW YORK AND MIAMI, PLUS IN DEDICATED POP-UPS AT MAJOR EVENTS, BEING SET FOR 2023

“Graham John Bell’s work is transporting with a certifiably magic eye that unfolds journeys of identity that bushwacks through urban jungles and embraces our most seductive dreams.” YAY LA (10/2/13)

Photo by Arun Nevader

“Home of the Brave” is the name of the debut gender-fluid streetwear collection by award-winning London-born designer and photographer GRAHAM JOHN BELL. Featuring his bold fashion photography on quality streetwear that can be worn by day or night, the limited-edition line was unveiled this past September at New York Fashion Week Powered by Art Hearts Fashion. It will appear on more runways in New York and Miami, plus in dedicated pop-ups at major events, being set for 2023 (TBA).

“Home of the Brave” invokes questions around identity and society, while some might say it is the bastard lovechild of Vivienne Westwood and Helmut Newton. Manufactured in both the United Kingdom and USA, the collection, explains BELL, was developed with a made-to-order business model to respect the environment and offset the fashion industry’s much-scrutinized environmental impact from more traditional manufacturing practices.

On September 8, 2022, “Home of the Brave” officially debuted at the mega New York event where acclaimed international designers were showcased in true contemporary style over four days of runway shows at the city’s iconic Angel Orensanz Foundation Synagogue. Their showcase on the first day of “Gender-Fluid Fashions for 2023” was a notable standout.

Beyond just fashion, innovation, diversity, inclusion and gender-fluid creations were major themes in this year’s series of shows, pushing traditional boundaries like never before. On opening night, GRAHAM JOHN BELL was featured along with Los Angeles brand Mister Triple X + Dr. Martens, celebrity fashion designer Giannina Azar, and two other emerging fashion brands, Keziah and Alexandra Popescu-York.

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Photos by Arun Nevader

BELL’s inspiration for this project stems from a belief that people can love whomever they choose and wear whatever they please to express and empower their authentic identities. The collection’s manifesto implies that individuals have a right to choose–healthcare, fashion and sexual expression–all reflecting a sense of bravery in the “land of the free” as experienced in the year 2023, not 1776. Although the line does harken back to 1776 by giving a nod to Marie Antoinette, who alongside her husband Louis XVI went broke helping to finance the American Revolution (that led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776), France’s financial help was a major and decisive contribution towards the United States’ eventual victory and independence over the British. The debt incurred by Louis XVI and his queen Marie Antoinette eventually led to the French Revolution and the beheading of the queen at age 37. Hence, the land of the brave owes a great debt to her and is why BELL has made his images an artistic expression of her.

BELL explains, “The brand was born out of a creative reflection phase after Covid-19. It inspired me to look into new technologies for printing and recent made-to-order options that were available. Using my own images helped set me free on the creative path where I’m confident that what we are producing in this gender-fluid line is bold, brave and still good on the environment as we only produce what is ordered and wanted. I really hope this and future collections start conversations for the people that wear and see ‘Home of the Brave’ to help normalize inclusion and encourage confidence in expressing sexuality.”

ABOUT GRAHAM JOHN BELL:

Graham John Bell is a lifestyle photographer with extensive experience in the international music scene, where he managed artist’s careers (including overseeing their music placement in Oscar nominated films), and led photography teams into international festival expansion plans for global music brands including Live Nation. As a London-born, Los Angeles-now-Las Vegas based artist, his unique cultural perspective has allowed him behind-the-scenes access to capture micro seconds of history that will never be repeated. His early visual arts education began with a study in the Strobism movement (late ‘80s). He later studied photography at University of California, Los Angeles and received the UCLA award for Mastery and Excellence in Photography (2009) awarded by a professor who worked with “the greats:” Irving Penn, Richard Avedon, Helmut Newton and more. Today, Bell respects artists driven by creative excellence who push cultural boundaries from fashion icons Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen to music newcomer Fred Again… Bell continues to be committed to capturing pivotal cultural moments in his art – be it in photographs, garments or whatever expression comes next.

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For further information about Graham John Bell:

Buy Link: www.grahamjohnbell.com
Photography Portfolio: http://www.missusnewton.com/
Instagram link: https://www.instagram.com/grahamjohnbell/
TikTok link: https://www.tiktok.com/@grahamjohnbell
Arthaus : http://www.arthaus-sf.com/portfolio/graham-john-bell/

Allure: https://www.allure.com/story/nyfw-spring-summer-2023-hair-makeup-trends

Exclusive HD photo Link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/7ean98rxzmfds73530tjw/h?dl=0&rlkey=r7dwm4xh7y6u94w0cciigizh9

Credits: Models Payton George & Trin Kellan
Styling: April Love Beauty
Photography: Graham John Bell

For press inquiries about GRAHAM JOHN BELL, contact SRO PR:

Mitch Schneider, mschneider@sropr.com
Andrea Faulk, afaulk@sropr.com

November 30, 2022

ITALIAN GRAFFITI MODERN OSTERIA NOW OPEN AT THE GATEWAY

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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ITALIAN GRAFFITI MODERN OSTERIA NOW OPEN AT THE GATEWAY

(SALT LAKE CITY, November 29, 2022)– Italian Graffiti Modern Osteria is excited to announce it is now open for business at The Gateway, located near downtown Salt Lake City.

Italian Graffiti offers a bold and modern take on traditional Italian cuisine with house made pastas and breads, a dry-aged meat program, fresh seafood offerings, an expansive wine list, handcrafted cocktails and more. Much of the produce and wheat is sourced from local farms.

“Some of my most cherished childhood memories are those of my family cooking and sharing a meal together,” said Chef Marc Marrone. “With Italian Graffiti, I want our guests to enjoy that same warmth and generosity in an elevated dining experience.”

The restaurant’s 5,000 square-foot interior is presented in a stylized and modern way with open format cooking, creating a multi-sensory dining experience. Dark wood, richly appointed leather booths, elegant light fixtures, and one-of-a-kind art installations are surrounded by lush trees with floral and gold accents throughout the main dining room, bar, and lounge. The space accommodates up to 125 guests.

Italian Graffiti is located at 156 South 400 West on the southeast end of The Gateway. Hours of operation are Tuesday through Thursday from 5 p.m. – 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. – 11 p.m.

ABOUT ITALIAN GRAFFITI MODERN OSTERIA

Italian Graffiti is a contemporary interpretation of classic Italian fare from handcrafted family recipes. The menu offers a fresh, vibrant take on Italian cuisine while tapping into classic techniques, flavors, and recipes from old world Italian dishes. Building upon nearly 20 years of experience earned at world-class restaurants across the country, acclaimed Chef Marc Marrone brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Nice Hospitality’s newest venture. Inspired by his own New York Italian-influenced upbringing, Chef Marc transforms those memories into a full-scale culinary experience at Italian Graffiti. Italian Graffiti is

located at 156 South 400 West, Suite 113 in Salt Lake City. For reservations or more information, visit https://www.italiangraffiti.com/ or call 385-281-8373. Follow on Instagram @eatitaliangraffiti.

ABOUT NICE HOSPITALITY

Led by visionaries Reed Slobusky and Chef Marc Marrone, Nice Hospitality creates and operates multiple food and beverage brands with a focus on providing immersive experiences, culinary excellence, and gracious hospitality. Nice seeks out unique spaces and tells their stories with the unspoken art of culinary exploration. As leaders in quick service dining, pioneers in fine dining, and creators of memorable experiences, Nice Hospitality creates and operates a diversified portfolio of brands and concepts including Beer Zombies, Blaze of Thunder, Graffiti Bao, Hall Pass, Italian Graffiti Modern Osteria, SkinnyFATS, and Snowmobile Pizza.

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MEDIA CONTACTS:

Mitchell Schneider SRO PR
818-266-9285
mschneider@sropr.com

Hillary Smoot Red Moon PR
310-367-9056
hillary@redmoonpr.com

November 25, 2022

Mongolian Act THE HU Become First-Ever Rock/Metal Group To Receive UNESCO “Artist For Peace” Designation in Ceremony Earlier Today at UNESCO HQ in Paris, FR

DT: FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, MITCH SCHNEIDER / SRO PR

GLOBALLY ACCLAIMED MONGOLIAN ACT
THE HU
FIRST-EVER ROCK/METAL GROUP TO RECEIVE PRESTIGIOUS
UNESCO “ARTIST FOR PEACE” DESIGNATION
IN CEREMONY AT UNESCO HEADQUARTERS IN PARIS FRANCE
EARLIER TODAY, NOVEMBER 25

BAND ANNOUNCE DELUXE VERSION OF SECOND ALBUM
‘RUMBLE OF THUNDER’
DUE SPRING/SUMMER 2023 VIA BETTER NOISE MUSIC
WITH GUEST APPEARANCES FROM TOP NAMES IN ROCK

Photo Credit: Khishigsuren Baasan

Globally acclaimed breakthrough Mongolian rock act THE HU are honored to announce they’ve been named UNESCO’s “Artist For Peace” at a ceremony earlier today (November 25) at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris, FR by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay. They are the first-ever artist in the rock/metal genre to receive this prestigious designation and follow previous “Artist for Peace” recipients including Celine Dion, Shirley Bassey, Sarah Brightman, Herbie Hancock, Marcus Miller and World Orchestra For Peace. Having met the band on her official visit to Mongolia this past August, Azoulay has acknowledged THE HU’s contribution to the safeguarding of intangible cultural heritage and their support for the promotion of cultural diversity through music; these are qualities which resonate with UNESCO‘s values and work.

Founded in 2016 in Ulaanbaatar, The HU have since amassed a global following and critical acclaim with their unique musical genre they call “Hunnu Rock.” It fuses rock and heavy metal with styles of traditional Mongolian music, such as the art of Khöömei (throat singing), the tsuur flute and the Morin Khuur (horse-headed fiddle), all of which have been inscribed by UNESCO on the List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. “HU” corresponds to the root of the word “human being” in the Mongolian language. With this name, the group claim their humanist commitment. Through their music, they address the themes of gender equality, respect for difference, and the importance of protecting nature. They also promote linguistic diversity by using endangered regional dialects.

As an “Artist for Peace”–alongside UNESCO Goodwill Ambassadors and Champions—THE HU will be designated for a renewable period of two years in which time they will help raise public awareness on UNESCO’s mandate and programs among the general public and youth. THE HU will use their talent and reputation to promote UNESCO‘s values and objectives through upcoming events and projects to help bring a positive change.

THE HU’s UNESCO “Artist For Peace” title lands alongside their previous awards as Cultural Envoy of Mongolia in 2019 and being the first group and 12^th overall recipients of the highest state award in Mongolia, the Order of Genghis Khan, which was granted to the band by the President of Mongolia, Kh. Battulga in 2020.

“Mongolians have upmost respect for our history, culture and the language that was left to us from thousands of years ago from our elders and ancestors,” says band leader and throat singer Gala. “The HU’s goal and purpose is first and foremost to perform a unique genre of music that gives strength and power upon every listen. Secondly, it is to show the world Mongolia’s nomadic and environmentally aware livelihood that has been passed down from previous generations and to inspire others to live minimalistic lives and enjoy life to its fullest. UNESCO electing the HU with ‘Artists for Peace’ designation shows their appreciation towards cultural diversity and heritage pieces that are of great value to Mongolians. The partnership between the HU and UNESCO will bring awareness towards every culture that is distinguished by their unique heritage and core values, so we are excited to be part of a movement that can improve and change so many lives.”

“We sincerely appreciate being selected by UNESCO as part of their ‘Artists for Peace’ and understand the importance of the designation,” adds tumur khuur and tsuur player Jaya. “From a very young age we have been practicing traditional music techniques and instrumentation such as long song, throat singing, horse head fiddle, tsuur and tovshuur, as we know the significance and impact of sharing one’s culture around the world has to rest of the society. Our music delivers profound ideas that are understood in the subconscious mind while delivering hard rock and ethereal tunes. On the surface level, our lyrics and music seem to talk about basic yet important principles of human beings; on a deeper level, they share the preservation of cultures that are in danger of going extinct and allow us to be representatives for groups who have slightly different world perspectives than the modern world. This is a huge inspiration for us and part of our purposes as artists. Therefore, we will do everything in our power to be the inspiration for the cultures that are underrepresented and work with UNESCO to bring them the attention that they deserve.”

“The Hunnu Rock genre’s fundamental values are based on creating safe space in the modern music world for different traditional music styles that are only appreciated by certain geographical regions and has many cultural values to its techniques and history to its instruments,” states THE HU’s producer Dashka. “With UNESCO recognizing that effort and selecting The HU as their cultural ambassador to stand with what we believe in and what we are trying to accomplish is important to not only Mongolians, but to all nations around the world. In any tradition the lores and the music carry so much of their uniqueness and world view, and everybody agree that sometimes the only way to describe one’s perspective is through music. Our goals and priorities will always be to create amazing music and safeguard the pieces of culture that were passed down to us from prior generations.”

THE HU are currently on the last leg of their global headlining tour which concludes in London, UK on December 9. Earlier this year, the band headlined across North America, a run which included their fiery debut performance at Coachella, and was followed by a supporting tour alongside Five Finger Death Punch and Megadeth. THE HU released their second album RUMBLE OF THUNDER in July via BETTER NOISE MUSIC which features their eco-conscious debut single, “This Is Mongol”; an epic two-part music video for their nine-minute track “Black Thunder”; and the lively single “Bii Biyelegee.” THE HU have announced a deluxe version of RUMBLE OF THUNDER to be released in spring/summer of 2023 via Better Noise Music, with guest appearances from some of rock’s top musicians. Stay tuned for more information in the new year.

Stream/download RUMBLE OF THUNDER, along with varying physical product offerings including special edition colored vinyl variants, here: https://thehu.ffm.to/rumbleofthunder

A picture containing text Description automatically generated DOWNLOAD ALBUM ARTWORK

SRO PR Assets: www.sropr.com/portfolio/thehu

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About THE HU
In 2019, an NPR story put a spotlight on “a band from Mongolia that blends the screaming guitars of heavy metal and traditional Mongolian guttural singing,” accurately highlighting the cultural importance and unique musical identity of THE HU. Founded in 2016 in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, THE HU, Gala, Jaya, Temka, and Enkush, are a modern rock group rooted in the tradition of their homeland. The band’s two most popular videos, “Yuve Yuve” and “Wolf Totem,” were produced by the band’s producer Dashka. The band’s name translates to the Mongolian root word for human being, and their unique approach blends instruments like the Morin Khuur (horsehead fiddle), Tovshuur (Mongolian guitar), Tumur Khuur (jaw harp) and throat singing with contemporary sounds, creating a unique sonic profile that they call “Hunnu Rock.”

Their debut album, 2019 ‘s The Gereg, debuted at #1 on the World Album and Top New Artist Charts. With it, the band have accumulated over 250 million combined streams and video views to date and have received critical acclaim from the likes of Billboard, NPR, GQ, The Guardian, The Independent, Revolver, and even Sir Elton John himself.

Proving their global appeal, THE HU have sold out venues across the world in North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, with scheduled festival appearances at Coachella, Lollapalooza, Download Festival, and more, creating a community of fans from all walks of life. They quickly grabbed the attention of the industry, leading to collaborations with Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach and Lzzy Hale of Halestorm. And most recently, the band received praise from fans and critics for their Mongolian rendition of Metallica’s “Sad But True,” which Metallica picked up on and invited them to record ‘Through The Never’ for their Metallica Blacklist album released in 2021 alongside other high-profile guest artists like Miley Cyrus, Chris Stapleton, Phoebe Bridgers, J Balvin, St. Vincent, and so many more. The band has also explored eclectic ways to reach audiences with their sound, most notably writing and recording music for EA Games’ Star Wars Jedi: Fallen Order.

ABOUT BETTER NOISE MUSIC
BETTER NOISE MUSIC is the premiere independent music label under BETTER NOISE ENTERTAINMENT, a content creation and marketing company that produces music, books, films, documentaries, TV shows, theatrical productions, and tours. Better Noise Music (formerly Eleven Seven Music), founded in 2006 by music industry veteran and independent pioneer Allen Kovac, focuses on artist development and has grown into a music industry independent powerhouse, with a roster including Five Finger Death Punch, Asking Alexandria, Bad Wolves, Dirty Heads, Nothing More, THE HU, AWOLNATION, All Good Things, From Ashes To New, Cory Marks, and Fire From The Gods. Partnering with FUGA, AMPED and Membran, the company operates a global marketing and distribution platform with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Berlin, Paris, Toronto and Sydney.

In 2021, Better Noise Music dominated Billboard’s Year End charts in the rock space, landing at #1 on the Mainstream Rock Imprint, Hard Rock Songs Imprint, Hard Rock Songs Label charts and ranked as one of the top Mainstream Rock Labels for the year.

For information, visit: http://betternoise.com/

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider – mschneider@sropr.com

November 23, 2022

Alice Cooper and Nikki Sixx talk about Tommy Henriksen’s CROSSBONE SKULLY project; CROSSBONE SKULLY Debut “Evil World Machine,” Music Video to Premiere at San Francisco Fan Expo 11/26 and YouTube

DT: NOVEMBER 23, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, MITCH SCHNEIDER / SRO PR

ALICE COOPER AND NIKKI SIXX
TALK ABOUT
CROSSBONE SKULLY

CROSSBONE SKULLY RELEASES DEBUT SINGLE
“EVIL WORLD MACHINE”;
THE OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO PREMIERES AT THE SAN FRANCISCO FAN EXPO THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26 AND YOUTUBE AT 7:00 PM (ET)

Crossbone Skully’s Debut Album Expected In 2023 via Better Noise Music

Tommy Henriksen, The Mastermind Behind The Crossbone Skully Music, Character And Story, Enlists Johnny Depp And A “Who’s Who” Of Rock Music On This Special Project

DOWNLOAD SINGLE ART
DOWNLOAD LOGO
LISTEN

“It’s about time someone recognized Crossbone Skully,” says Alice Cooper. “Skully and I go way back. Crossbone Skully has written a galactic masterpiece about one of the most mysterious characters of the cosmos. Is he a villain or a hero? I don’t know. Maybe a little of both. All I know is don’t cross Crossbone Skully. This album rocks every galaxy out there.”

Nikki Sixx says, “I’m thrilled to be involved in the Crossbone Skully project. The music is hard hitting and real as it aligns with an original concept. To be part of this project with this group of legends is inspirational and I know it’s gonna kick ass!”

The two rock legends are talking about the debut album from CROSSBONE SKULLY, due out on Better Noise Music in 2023. It’s an exciting multi-dimensional project that was launched last Friday (November 18) with the album’s first single, the blazing “Evil World Machine,” available to stream and download HERE.

This Saturday (November 26), the video, directed and animated by Riley Donahue (“Saturday Night Live”), will premiere live at the San Francisco Fan Expo, followed by a YouTube premiere at 7:00 PM (ET) HERE. Fans will get their first look at Tommy Henriksen’s carefully crafted character “CROSSBONE SKULLY,” and the character’s world, which inspired its own upcoming graphic novel and animated film, “Thing #1.”

CROSSBONE SKULLY is an avenging superhero, beginning his journey to rescue humanity on “Evil World Machine,” which confronts the evil currency of the world. Legendary producer Mutt Lange (AC/DC, Def Leppard) emerged from retirement to serve as executive producer on the album which was written by guitarist/bassist Tommy Henriksen (Alice Cooper’s Band / Member of Hollywood Vampires which includes Johnny Depp) and guitarist/producer Tommy Denander.

Henriksen serves as lead vocalist and bassist on the album. Rounding out the band’s lineup are Denander, keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac (My Chemical Romance, John Mayer, Seal), bassist Chris Wyse (Hollywood Vampires, Ace Frehley, the Cult, Ozzy Osbourne), drummer Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires), the late UFO bassist Pete Way, producer/mixer Mike Plotnikoff (AC/DC, Aerosmith) and mixer Olle Romo (Muse, Bryan Adams). For the “Thing #1” animated short film, Henriksen enlisted voiceover talent from Hollywood A-lister and Hollywood Vampires bandmate Johnny Depp (The Sorcerer), and an impressive list of rock royalty including Alice Cooper (The Bringer of Light), Joe Perry (Big Bad Bone Crusher), Nikki Sixx (The Crooked Crow) and Kane Roberts (Alpha Watchman), just to name a few.

“This has been an amazing journey,” says Henriksen, who began the project almost four years ago. “If you had told me back then that I’d be working with the greatest producer who ever lived, I wouldn’t have believed it.”

CROSSBONE SKULLY will be engaging fans with more music from the album, which delivers a powerful message in today’s global climate, inviting people of all backgrounds to coexist and break down oppressive barriers. Additionally, Henriksen’s vision for CROSSBONE SKULLY will continue to unfold, culminating in the release of the band’s debut album in 2023.

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ABOUT CROSSBONE SKULLY

Crossbone Skully is an avenging superhero from outer space, returning to earth to save the world and reconnect with his lost deity love Piper and Kyd, the son he never knew he had. Evil World Machine is a rock concept album that echoes similar dystopian visions such as Ziggy Stardust and the Spiders from Mars and Diamond Dogs. The project, influenced by larger-than-life bands such as AC/DC, Alice Cooper, KISS, Iron Maiden and even the Sex Pistols, is the work of a collaborative team headed by veteran rock session bassist/guitarist Tommy Henriksen and Tommy Denander alongside the legendary Mutt Lange, who emerged from retirement to executive produce the project.

With a long history Henriksen has also had a successful side career as a producer/mixer/arranger and songwriter for the likes of Lady Gaga, Meat Loaf, Lou Reed, Halestorm, Kesha and Daughtry. His metamorphosis into Crossbone Skully started when Alice Cooper’s lighting man, who used to work for AC/DC, heard him singing like Bon Scott and successor Brian Johnson during a sound check–and suggested he build a solo project around it.

The sterling group of supporting musicians includes guitarist Tommy Denander (who introduced him to Mutt Lange after collaborating on Alice Cooper’s 2017 album Paranormal with Bob Ezrin), keyboardist Jamie Muhoberac (My Chemical Romance, John Mayer, Seal), bassist Chris Wyse (Hollywood Vampires, Ace Frehley, the Cult, Ozzy Osbourne) and drummer Glen Sobel (Alice Cooper, Hollywood Vampires), the late UFO bassist Pete Way, mixer Olle Romo (Muse, Bryan Adams) and producer/mixer Mike Plotnikoff (AC/DC, Aerosmith), who helped get him noticed by Allen Kovac’s Better Noise Records. Making spoken-word appearances are Johnny Depp as the voice of “The Sorcerer,” along with Alice Cooper as “The Bringer of Light,” Joe Perry as “Big Bad Bone Crusher” and Nikki Sixx as “The Crooked Crow,” with Kane Roberts as “Alpha Watchman,” among other guests. Henriksen developed the voice of Crossbone Skully with a vocal app that makes him sound like a disembodied Stephen Hawking. Iconic creative/art director Mark Wilkinson, who designed for Iron Maiden, Marillion, Judas Priest and The Darkness, created the Crossbone Skully album cover.

ABOUT BETTER NOISE MUSIC

BETTER NOISE MUSIC is the premiere independent music label under BETTER NOISE ENTERTAINMENT, a content creation and marketing company that produces music, books, films, documentaries, TV shows, theatrical productions, and tours. Better Noise Music (formerly Eleven Seven Music), founded in 2006 by music industry veteran and independent pioneer Allen Kovac, focuses on artist development and has grown into a music industry independent powerhouse, with a roster including Five Finger Death Punch, Asking Alexandria, Bad Wolves, Dirty Heads, Nothing More, The HU, AWOLNATION, All Good Things, From Ashes To New, Cory Marks, and Fire From The Gods. Partnering with FUGA, AMPED and Membran, the company operates a global marketing and distribution platform with offices in New York, Los Angeles, London, Berlin, Paris, Toronto and Sydney.

Check out Better Noise Music on Bandcamp, for music, merch and more: https://betternoisemusic.bandcamp.com/

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider – mschneider@sropr.com

November 18, 2022

French Nordic Folk Collective SKÁLD Announce ‘HULDUFÓLK’ due 1/20 via DECCA RECORDS (UMG); Reveal Debut Single “TROLL KALLA MIK”

DT: NOVEMBER 18, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, SRO PR

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FRANCE’S WORLD-FAMOUS NORDIC COLLECTIVE
SKÁLD
RETURN WITH NEW ALBUM
‘HULDUFÓLK’
DUE JANUARY 20 VIA DECCA RECORDS FRANCE / DECCA RECORDS U.S. (UMG)

REVEAL FIRST NEW SINGLE/MUSIC VIDEO
“TROLL KALLA MIK”

WATCH HERE

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French Nordic folk collective SKÁLD will return January 20 via Decca Records France / DECCA RECORDS U.S. (UMG) with their third full-length album HULDUFÓLK which in English translates to “the hidden people.” The album shares the myths and legends of Scandinavian poets and shamans with tales of otherworldly beings coexisting with humankind. Sung entirely in Old Norse, the ancient language of Scandinavia, HULDUFÓLK transports listeners into an “elsewhere” made of fantasy, a land inhabited by weird and wonderful creatures, and mysteries with its poetic and epic soundscape.

HULDUFÓLK was composed and produced by the collective’s mastermind Christophe Voisin-Boisvinet and features over a dozen musicians and songwriters using traditional Nordic instrumentation such as the nyckelharpa, Moraharpa, Lyre, Talharpa and hurdy-gurdy alongside shamanic percussion and Nordic chants. Pre-order HULDUFÓLK now on CD, Vinyl and digital download at https://bio.to/skald.

SKÁLD have today (November 18) shared the first glimpse into the mysterious land of HULDUFÓLK with its debut single “Troll Kalla Mik” (“They Call Me Troll”). Its music video delves into the lore of the “Huldufolk” and one’s dangerous journey into their realm illustrating a dance of two powerful spirits, light and darkness. In Icelandic folklore, to cross the lands and forests of the hidden people is to risk losing one’s life and become trapped in a bewitching elven circle. If one does attempt to enter their realm, they become entranced and caught in a hellish loop of dance until they succumb to exhaustion, oblivion or death. The “Troll Kalla Mik” music video can be seen below or HERE. Stream “Troll Kalla Mik” across all digital platforms HERE.

“Troll Kalla Mik” (“They Call Me Troll”) Translated English Lyrics

They call me troll:
“dwelling-Hrungnir’s moon”,
“the giant’s wealth-sucker”,
“bale of the storm-sun”,
“the seeress’ delightful company”,
“guard of the corpse-fjord”,
“swallower of the heavenly wheel”.
What’s a troll, but this?
Ho Ho Hoo…
x2

They call me “Skáld”:
“smith of Viðurr’s ship”,
“finder of Gautr’s gift”,
“unscanty man”,
“bearer of Yggr’s beer”,
x2

“Móði’s creator in poetry”,
“skilled smith of verses”.

What’s a skald, but this? x2

What’s a troll, but this?

They blended honey and blood together
And created that kind of mead which
Makes everyone who drinks it a poet and a wise man.
x3

HULDUFÓLK Cover Artwork

HULDUFÓLK Track Listing:
1. Troll Kalla Mik
2. Ljósálfur
3. Mánin Líður
4. Ríðum, ríðum
5. Hinn Mikli Dreki
6. Då Månen Sken
7. Elverhøy
8. Her Mannelig
9. Rauður Loginn Brann
10. Trollslaget
11. Du Hast (Rammstein cover)
12. A Forest

Formed in 2018, SKÁLD have received global acclaim selling over 245,000 copies of their 2019 debut album Vikings Chant and 2020’s Vikings Memories in addition to amassing over 100 million streams and more than 137 million video views. The collective have performed across several of Europe’s major festivals including Hellfest (FR), Wacken (DE), Rock Oz’Arenes (CH), Motorcultor Festival (FR) and recently completed a headlining tour across Europe.

Through their music, SKÁLD take inspiration from the poetry of the ancient skalds who sang and told stories of the Vikings and their gods. Their music is characterized by singing in Old Norse and the use of ancient instruments.

For more information on SKÁLD, please visit:
WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | IG | TWITTER
SPOTIFY | YOUTUBE

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com

November 16, 2022

OZZY OSBOURNE Talks About The Four Grammy Nominations For His ‘Patient Number 9’ Album And More

DATE: NOVEMBER 16, 2022

FROM: MARCEE RONDAN/MITCH SCHNEIDER

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OZZY OSBOURNE
EARNS FOUR GRAMMY NOMINATIONS
INCLUDING “BEST ROCK ALBUM”
FOR HIS INTERNATIONAL CHART-TOPPING
AND CRITICALLY ACCLAIMED
‘PATIENT NUMBER 9’ ALBUM

THESE HONORS FOLLOW OZZY’S THREE GRAMMY WINS
AND EIGHT NOMINATIONS IN HIS 50+ YEAR CAREER AS A
SOLO ARTIST AND MEMBER OF BLACK SABBATH

OZZY OSBOURNE yesterday (November 15) earned four Grammy nominations for his hugely successful and critically acclaimed PATIENT NUMBER 9 album (Epic Records). These mark the most nominations he’s ever received for a single album. The 2022 nominations are for: Best Rock Performance: “Patient Number 9,” Ozzy Osbourne feat. Jeff Beck”; Best Metal Performance: “Degradation Rules,” Ozzy Osbourne feat. Tony lommi; Best Rock Song: “Patient Number 9,” John Osbourne, Chad Smith, Ali Tamposi, Robert Trujillo & Andrew Wotman, songwriters (Ozzy Osbourne feat. Jeff Beck); and Best Rock Album for Patient Number 9. Read a Q&A with OZZY below where he talks about the nominations and more.

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy®-winning singer and songwriter previously has won three Grammy Awards and received eight nominations. In 1993 OZZY won a solo Grammy Award for Best Metal Performance for “I Don’t Want To Change the World” and two Grammys as a member of Black Sabbath for “Best Metal Performance” in 2000 for “Iron Man” and in 2013 for “Best Metal Performance” for “God Is Dead?” from 13.

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PATIENT NUMBER 9–released September 9 and marking OZZY’s 13^th solo studio album–triumphantly sets new career highs for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee and Grammy®-winning singer and songwriter. The critically acclaimed album has topped his previous chart entries with record-breaking numbers around the world. In the U.S., the album debuted at #1 on multiple charts: Top Album Sales (Ozzy’s first #1 ever on this chart), Top Current Album Sales (another first), Top Rock & Alternative Albums, Top Rock Albums, Top Hard Rock Albums, Top Vinyl Albums and Tastemaker Albums charts; and at #3 on the Billboard Top 200 albums chart. Globally, the album charted at #1 in Canada (OZZY’s first-ever #1 there); career high #2 entries in the UK, Australia, Finland and Italy; #6 in the Netherlands and New Zealand; #8 in Belgium; and #14 France. Other highlights include #2 Austria, Germany and Sweden; #3 in Switzerland; and #4 in Norway.

Working with producer Andrew Watt for the second time, OZZY welcomed a dynamic A-list featured guests on the album. For the first time ever, Black Sabbath co-founder, guitarist, and riff-master Tony Iommi appears on an OZZY solo album. The record also boasts guitarists Jeff Beck, Eric Clapton, Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, and longstanding righthand man and six-string beast Zakk Wylde who plays on the majority of the tracks. For the bulk of the album, Chad Smith of Red Hot Chili Peppers held down drums, while the late Taylor Hawkins of Foo Fighters appears on three songs. Old friend and one-time OZZY band member Robert Trujillo of Metallica plays bass on most of the album’s tracks, with Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses and Chris Chaney supplying bass on a few songs.

Q&A WITH
OZZY OSBOURNE

Q: How does it feel to have received four nominations for the new album?

OZZY: “I’m honestly overwhelmed. Making this record was a great way to me to get back to work as I continued to heal. It’s pretty great to be acknowledged at this point in my career.”

Q: Between the pandemic and you going through your surgeries, do you think that contributed to making another record so quickly?

OZZY: “Well, the thing was I had all this time–we all did through the pandemic. Instead of lying there and just doing my physical therapy, the record actually got me doing something that I love.”

Q: What was your mindset when you were writing and recording the album?

OZZY: “I was thinking about the times we’ve been living in. There wasn’t much good news. It was a fucking war in Ukraine and the pandemic. The world seemed to be on the brink of a bad thing.”

Q: How do you feel at this point in your career having the kind of notoriety you’ve achieved with this album?

OZZY: “The business forever surprises me. It’s never a safe bet. I’ve done things in the past where I tell myself ‘this is going to be a hit.’ Then it’s gone down the shitter and other things I’ve done…It’s done the opposite. I’m very cheered up by the support.”

Q: The interesting thing about the album is it features top musicians, including some old friends.

OZZY: “Oh yeah. I mean the guitars are Tony [Iommi], Zakk [Wylde], Eric Clapton and Jeff Beck’s fucking phenomenal work, plus Robert Trujillo on bass. It’s turned out better than I ever expected. And having Taylor Hawkins with me in the studio like a week or two before he died was amazing. To think he’s gone breaks my heart.”

Q: It must be special that “Degradation Rules” which features Tony Iommi, was nominated for a Grammy.

OZZY: “Such great news. I mean that song would’ve made a great Black Sabbath track. It’s a very well-structured song. I’ve known Tony since I was 12 years old and I’m glad to say we’ve continued a really good friendship. Tony’s been very supportive of me while I’ve been recovering from surgery. He’s been in constant contact, which has been great.”

Q: What’s the collaboration like with producer Andrew Watt?

OZZY: “He’s a lot better than most producers at collaboration. The fact that he plays guitar, and I don’t, and he works with machines and I don’t, makes it easier. It’s just great working with him. We end up arguing a bit with…sometimes, but not a lot!”

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November 16, 2022

LOVE BY NUMB3RS Shine A Light On Casco Bay, Maine With Their Video For “Ashes”

DATE: NOVEMBER 16, 2022

FROM: MITCH SCHNEIDER/MARCEE RONDAN

LOVE BY NUMB3RS
SHINE A LIGHT ON
CASCO BAY, MAINE, INCLUDING PEAKS ISLAND,
WITH NEW “ASHES” VIDEO
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE
AND READ THE Q&A BELOW

“ASHES” MARKS THE THIRD VIDEO FROM
BAND’S SOPHOMORE ALBUM
‘EARTH NEEDS A MOON’

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Description automatically generated Album Artwork by Walter Craven for EARTH NEEDS A MOON

Known for creating strikingly visual and memorable videos, Portland, Maine-based indie trio LOVE BY NUMB3RS–co-vocalists DAN CONNOR and ANNA LOMBARD and multi-instrumentalist JON ROODS–shine a light on Casco Bay, Maine, including quaint Peaks Island, with their video for “Ashes.” Released today (November 16), the rootsy and edgy “Ashes” marks the third video from the band’s current second album EARTH NEEDS A MOON. Watch the video HERE and read a Q&A below with vocalist and songwriter ANNA LOMBARD.

The “Ashes” video was premiered yesterday (November 15) by Wildfire Music, which wrote: “The song reflects on what we’re left with when relationships have died away and what we can recover from that transition, also calling up specific locations and moments to show the way that memory impacts us. The video was directed by the band’s Jon Roods and brings in locations, some of which are mentioned in the song’s lyrics, to blend with past memories and create a dream-like, reflective quality.”

Directed by the band’s JON ROODS, the video was recently filmed in 15 different locations. Among them: four spots on Peaks Island in Casco Bay including Fisher’s Waterhouse (where the band started the album in January); all over Casco Bay; and Cambridge, MA outside the historic Middle East club.

EARTH NEEDS A MOON, released September 30, was produced by ROODS and LOMBARD and follows the band’s November 2021 Colours EP and doesn’t repeat any of its songs. “Ashes” comes on the heels of the album’s first two singles/videos “Don’t Be So Hard On Me” (premiered by Vents Magazine) and “Earth Needs A Moon” (launched by Glide Magazine).

The album is filled with haunting and evocative songs about love, devotion and more with finely etched, atmospheric settings, over which the band cast their spells. The tracks are sonically wide-open and move slowly, however confidently, and make the listener feel like they are floating in air on a journey somewhere. The album was recorded at Fisher’s Waterhouse on Peaks Island as well as the band’s South Ranch studio. EARTH NEEDS A MOON follows the band’s November 2021 Colours EP and doesn’t repeat any of its songs. This is the music of a band who freewheelingly chart a course through eloquent alternative, Americana and roots rock.

“Ashes”:
Q&A with Anna Lombard of LOVE BY NUMB3RS

What inspired you to write “Ashes” and what was your mindset when you wrote it?

ANNA: A friend of mine sent me an email with some poetry and writings that were both stream of consciousness and autobiographical. This one line, “We’re just ashes of feelings that once were felt,” struck me and stayed with me over the course of the last few years because everyone can relate to that. We had only a wood stove out at Peaks Island to heat the Waterhouse studio while writing and recording the album–it was 18 degrees with the windchill–in the dead of January. We may have dabbled with some edible fungi (laughs)…and it kind of took on a life of its own from there.

In “Ashes” you explore the complexities of romantic relationships, as you have in other LBN songs. Why do you think relationships can wind up being difficult?

ANNA: Relationships can be difficult because humans really suck sometimes. However, whereas some of the lyrical content of our songs tend to be kind of sad with this underlying and sometimes not so subtle notion of desperation, this song is more about reminiscing on the rollercoaster of the experience and feelings after a relationship is over…which is sometimes all that you’re left with in the end. Embers…ashes…of what once was.

Musically, “Ashes” underlines the LBN sound, which is rootsy, atmospheric and modern. It has a really attractive rhythmic shuffle and a haunting + very catchy background vocal hook at the beginning of the track and throughout the song. Can you talk about the “LBN sound” on this track and what it was like to record it?

ANNA: “Ashes” was the very first song we started working on for the new record. We had three simple chords, and it was good but not super-inspiring until Jon came up with the bass line–the groove changed the feel of the song altogether and definitely gave it a little Motown feel, plus we had a little inspiration as well from some contemporary songs we were listening to. When I was fleshing out lyrics, I just started singing those intro ooh-oohs over the beds of the track and we liked the way it sounded and how it made us feel. Everything about the song felt warm, especially because we were so cold during that time of year and everything around us seemed frozen in place, like our breath when we walked outside. Time kind of stops when you’re on the island, too–it’s a nice reprieve from the constant go-go-go of everyday life.

What inspired the video?

ANNA: The concept of this video was inspired by the credit reels from “National Lampoon’s Vacation” title sequence with all the postcards of locations. Most scenes in it are super fun and make us “seem” likable…ha, ha. Instead of the video being dark and regretful, it’s more of a reminiscing on a past love.

How many locations were used in the video?

ANNA: We used 15 different locations including Cambridge, MA outside the historic Middle East club, which is sadly closing. There were also four locations on Peaks Island including Battery Steele; a public swing on the edge of the coast of the island; and Fisher’s Waterhouse (where we started the record last January). We also filmed all over Casco Bay on Alex Fisher’s boat and on the ferry. Jon and I “broke” into the amusement park and arcade called Palace Playland down in Old Orchard Beach which is somewhat of a legendary and cringey-but-loveable destination in southern Maine. Jon also channeled some Silk Sonic dance moves in our backyard for a shot while I was coaching my oldest’s soccer team one day–that was a nice surprise. And there are other various locations where I tried not to break my neck roller skating for the first time in 20+ years on surfaces like a dock.

Cool how you show a part of Maine that lots of folks may be unaware of, like Casco Bay + Peaks Island. Can you give us quotes about this area where you live?

ANNA: Peaks Island is very special place to us for a multitude of reasons. It’s only a 15-minute ferry ride from downtown Portland, but when you get there, you feel like you’re away from home. It’s also known for being a safe haven for artists. Peaks is only about 720 acres but is packed with so much history and some of the most beautiful, private beaches. It’s the spot where I almost blow myself up with fireworks was shot inside a tunnel at Battery Steele, which was a World War II military fortification. We also took Alex’s boat out to Fort Gorges which is about a five-minute ride from Peaks. After the War of 1812, the United States Army Corps of Engineers proposed that a fort be built on Hog Island Ledge, in Casco Bay at the entrance to the harbor in Portland. It’s only accessible by boat–Congress didn’t fund construction of the Fort until 1857 and when the Civil War began in 1861, they worked quickly to finish it over the course of the following four years, but when it was completed in 1865, right as the war ended, it’s said that modern explosives made the fort obsolete. The last time it was used by the army was when it stored submarine mines during WWII. There is still a 300 pound Parrott rifle out there–and it is one of the biggest and only remaining specimens of civil war vintage artillery. It’s kinda wild.

Ashes
Music written by LBN
Lyrics written by Anna Lombard

Caught a ferry across the bay

Felt the cold on both our faces

couldn’t even make a sound

Our breath was frozen

And all the things we couldn’t say

Like how this house just ain’t a home

And all that sadness lives inside of you

I know it’s fucked up cause I got it too

Oh there’s nothing quite like regret

Crashed my show at the Middle East

I got so drunk I couldn’t feel a thing

And it reminded me of New Years

Broken bottles and the piercing screams

Showed up in Paris when you wanted me

And oh the sadness always followed me

I made a scene in front of so called friends

Fell down the stairs and made a scene again

Man there’s nothing quite like regret

Now we’re just ashes of feelings

That once were felt

How bout the time in Marrakesh

You got so drunk you looked like death

Chasing me around a rooftop pool

Slept on a chair inside our hotel room

Don’t get me wrong I ain’t upset

So lift that weight up off your chest

This feeling won’t go away

Oh there’s nothing quite like regret

Now we’re just ashes of feelings

That once we felt

Oooooooooooohhhhhh

About another quarter mile

To Fisher’s Waterhouse

Our little church on peaks

Do anything to make you smile

If it’s good enough for you

It’s good enough for me

We’re just ashes of feelings

‘EARTH NEEDS A MOON’
ALBUM TRACK LISTING
(All songs written by LBN)

1. Intro
2. When I Close My Eyes
3. Earth Needs A Moon
4. Don’t Be So Hard On Me
5. Ashes
6. Do It All Over
7. The Universe
8. What Would I Do Without You
9. The Refuge
10. Last Love
11. A Million Suns

Photo credit: Cam Jones

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November 7, 2022

STEPHEN McCARTHY & CARLA OLSON Today Roll Out Fast-Paced And Fun Video For “WE GOTTA SPLIT THIS TOWN”—New Album Out Friday 11/11

DT: NOVEMBER 7, 2022

FM: MITCH SCHNEIDER/ANDREA FAULK/SRO PR

STEPHEN McCARTHY & CARLA OLSON
TODAY ROLL OUT FAST-PACED AND FUN VIDEO FOR
“WE GOTTA SPLIT THIS TOWN”
THE SECOND SINGLE FROM THEIR
FIRST-EVER DUET ALBUM

‘NIGHT COMES FALLING’
OUT THIS FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11
WATCH THE VIDEO HERE

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Description automatically generated with medium confidence ‘Night Comes Falling’ Album Cover Art

STEPHEN McCARTHY (Long Ryders, Jayhawks, Dream Syndicate) and CARLA OLSON (Textones, solo artist, producer) have today (November 7) rolled out the fast-paced and fun video “We Gotta Split This Town.” It’s the second single from their first-ever duet album, NIGHT COMES FALLING, out this Friday, November 11. Watch the “We Gotta Split This Town” video HERE and listen to the single HERE. See quotes below from both artists.

Described as “a true Americana power duo” by Rock and Roll Globe, the two singers, songwriters and guitarists boast lengthy careers that have intersected a few times. NIGHT COMES FALLING brings them together again in exciting ways on this 11-song album of stirring and rocking Americana music (the track listing is below). It is being released via CARLA’s production company Have Harmony, Will Travel, with distribution and marketing by Bob Frank Entertainment via the Orchard. Pre-order the album HERE and read the bio for the album HERE.

The McCARTHY-penned “We Gotta Split This Town” is an urgent and infectious country-rocking duet about, “a wayward couple,” he says, and the expertly edited video blends footage of STEPHEN (shot by Kevin Downs) and CARLA (by Ana Gazzola). It was directed by Tim Roth, who, explains CARLA, “utilized his magical green screen technique to put Stephen and I in the same space at the same time.”

“We Gotta Split This Town” follows the album’s first single, “Night Comes Falling,” a moving song that emerged after a conversation STEPHEN had with CARLA who was having dreams about her former singing partner, Gene Clark of the Byrds. It was on 1987’s classic So Rebellious A Lover, CARLA’s album with Gene, that STEPHEN and CARLA first recorded together when STEPHEN contributed lap steel to “The Drifter” and dobro on “Deportee.”

NIGHT COMES FALLING comes on the heels of McCARTHY and OLSON’s two songs on the 2022 BMG multi-artist album Americana Railroad where they offered a new version of STEPHEN’s “Here Comes That Train Again” as well as Gene Clark’s “I Remember The Railroad.” (CARLA produced seven additional tracks on the album including those by Dave Alvin, Rocky Burnette, Robert Rex Waller Jr. and John York.) NIGHT COMES FALLING is a testament to their individual and combined talents and was recorded at Robbie Krieger’s studio, Horse Latitudes, in Glendale, CA, It was produced by CARLA, STEPHEN and Mikal Reid.

The album’s musician credits are Stephen McCarthy (guitars, pedal steel guitar, mandolin, mellotron), Carla Olson (guitars), Paul Marshall (bass) and drummers Mitch Marine and Benjamin Lecourt. The album’s other players are Skip Edwards (keyboards, plus the string arrangement for “Long Way Back To Seventeen”), Jeff Lewis (flugelhorn on “Broken Lullaby”) and Jesse Owens Wells (fiddle on “I Remember The Railroad”).

QUOTES FROM
STEPHEN McCARTHY AND CARLA OLSON
ABOUT THE “WE GOTTA SPLIT THIS TOWN” SONG AND VIDEO

STEPHEN:

I had an idea about a ne’er-do-well swindler whose luck was running out. A confidence man on the run with his gal who was trying to set him straight. She was in too deep to make a clean break. The story is a conversation between the two co-conspirators.
The song was definitely written as a duet. A couple trying to make sense of their downfall. I think it works well with the melodic dialogue riffing over a driving beat and distorted B3 organ.

I remember showing it to Carla and suggesting that she sing it in a way that showed she had some disgust with my character.

Carla and I were touching on many different genres with this album. Mostly finding the intersection where rock ‘n’ roll and country collide. We had a talented group of musicians that were able to help get these songs off of the page with passion and a great groove.

Writing and recording was very challenging during Covid. We were sending ideas back-and-forth long distance and then refining them the few times we were able to get together before cutting the album.

For the video, we both shot scenes remotely and they were edited by a great director named Tim Roth. He added all of the extra scenes which visually illustrate the story of this wayward couple

CARLA:

Stephen was in Los Angeles for the McCabe’s record release gig for my Have Harmony Will Travel 2 duets album in February 2020. We were performed several songs at the show.

When we got together to work on our songs for the gig, he showed me this idea for “We Gotta Split This Town” (the working title was “Not Tough Enough”).

We were alternating singing to each other and thought it had a pretty cool attitude, so Stephen turned into the story about the couple on the run.

I’m always impressed by the talented director Tim Roth who created the video for the song (he also made the clip for “Night Comes Falling”). He utilized his magical green screen technique to put Stephen and I in the same space at the same time. Not sure how he does it.

The NIGHT COMES FALLING track listing is as follows:

01 We Gotta Split This Town (McCarthy)
02 Night Comes Falling (McCarthy, Olson)
03 Broken Lullaby (McCarthy, Olson)
04 The Bell Hotel Is Burning (George Green, Olson, McCarthy)
05 Brink Of The Blues (McCarthy, Olson)
06 One That Got Away (McCarthy, Olson)
07 Don’t Talk To Strangers (Bob Durand, Ron Elliott)
08 Long Way Back To Seventeen (McCarthy, Olson)
09 Just To Get To You (McCarthy)
10 Timber (Kosta Lazarides)
11 I Remember The Railroad (Gene Clark)

Stephen McCarthy and Carla Olson; Photo credit: Markus Cuff

Stephen McCarthy
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November 3, 2022

NOTHING MORE Launch #LOVEMEANS Campaign, Frontman JONNY HAWKINS Shares Video Message + Q&A

DT: NOVEMBER 3, 2022

FM: KELLY WALSH, MITCH SCHNEIDER / SRO PR

3X GRAMMY-NOMINATED ROCK GROUP
NOTHING MORE
LAUNCH
#LOVEMEANS SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
INSPIRED BY
EMOTIONALLY CHARGED SINGLE
“YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT LOVE MEANS”

FRONTMAN JONNY HAWKINS
SHARES TOUCHING VIDEO MESSAGE
ON THE POWERFUL IMPACT MUSIC HAS HAD FOR BOTH THEIR
FANS AND THE BAND THEMSELVES

READ Q&A DISCUSSING INFLUENCE BEHIND NEW ALBUM
‘SPIRITS’
AND ITS ACCOMPANYING META-PERSONALITY
“SPIRITS TEST”

‘SPIRITS’ OUT NOW VIA BETTER NOISE MUSIC

STREAM/DOWNLOAD HERE | TAKE “SPIRITS TEST” HERE

A picture containing text Description automatically generated SPIRITS Cover Art (Download)

3x Grammy-nominated rock outfit NOTHING MORE have launched a social media campaign surrounding their recent single, “YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT LOVE MEANS,” encouraging fans to submit videos sharing what love means to them and tagging the band and song on socials using the hashtag #LOVEMEANS. Those who submit a video will be entered in a raffle to win a signed copy of their new album SPIRITS out now via Better Noise Music. “YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT LOVE MEANS” is about the ups and downs of toxic relationships and how sometimes you just need to break the cycle.

Frontman JONNY HAWKINS shared an emotional video message with followers detailing a recent experience he had on tour meeting a fan who shared his story of how NOTHING MORE’s music saved his life and led him to meeting his partner, who was also impacted by the band’s work. This inspired HAWKINS to start the #LOVEMEANS campaign and inspire others to share their stories of overcoming adversity. Listen to his message here: https://www.instagram.com/p/CkRKKxcgaD6/.

Watch “YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT LOVE MEANS” music video here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ll8aJ5IiEP4

On SPIRITS, NOTHING MORE pairs unapologetically massive anthems, catchy hooks, and progressive music with introspective, philosophical lyrics and thought-provoking emotionalism. HAWKINS elaborates on its concepts and the album’s coinciding meta-personality “SPIRITS TEST” (inspired from Myers-Briggs, Big 5 and the Zodia along with the philosophy of Alan Watts and Carl Jung) in the Q&A below. The result of the test determines your “Spirit Type” which ascertains specific characteristics that are further embellished across the album’s artwork and in their upcoming graphic novel “SPIRITS VOL.1” due in early 2023 via Z2 Comics.

“With its incredibly powerful utilization of [Jonny] Hawkins’ range, the detailed orchestration of each track for maximum effect and the poignancy of the messaging and intention throughout the album, ‘Spirits’ makes its mark as one of Nothing More’s best works,” lauds Cryptic Rock (10/14).

Stream/download SPIRITS now at https://nothingmore.ffm.to/spirits.

Take the “SPIRITS TEST” now here: https://spiritstest.com/

DOWNLOAD PHOTO (Credit: Christian Lawrence)

Q&A with JONNY HAWKINS

Nothing More has gained attention from critics and audiences alike for your riveting live performance which sees you appear on stage in body paint while vigorously moving throughout the set and engaging with the crowd. You’ve previously mentioned some of the inspiration for your performance was based on Native American culture. Can you expand further and/or share other factors of your personal life/hobbies have helped you develop your show?

“I have a background in drumming, and I was the original drummer of the band for many years, so that has had a huge influence on not only how I think about the show but even how I move my body. I’m always connected to the rhythm, the beat; naturally my extremities move subconsciously to the drummer in my head. I also did drumline in high school and we performed all over the nation doing really elaborate performance pieces which influenced my desire to always want to do these drum ensemble kind of moments with the entire band. Lastly, I was always interested in martial arts. I wrestled in high school and I do jujitsu and some boxing now. I was always fascinated by the overlap of the warrior spirit or the martial artists and art. There was an overlap at times between those two things and how you would move your body through space and time–and even the body paint that I wear is inspired by primitive cultures that would put on the war paint with intention of getting into a spirit of war or a spirit of battle. In the same way, I like to conjure those energies within myself before the show as I put on my paint and get in the right mindset.”

We’d be remiss to leave out the other stunning element of your live performance, The Scorpion Tail and the Drum Machine. While both are visually engaging elements, can you explain how both were designed and how specifically they impact the band’s sound?

“The Scorpion Tail was designed originally from an idea that I had in the jam room with a wireless MIDI controller that almost looked like a video game controller. I wired Dan and Mark’s guitars through a computer, and I was affecting what they were playing in real time. Just like a DJ effects a prerecorded track, I was playing the effects on their instruments. Daniel, our bass player, decided to weld this monster that I could kind of wrestle with my whole body rather than just pressing buttons with my fingers. We thought it would be more visually compelling and more exciting to perform than something small that you manipulate with your fingers.”

SPIRITS was written during a time of global isolation which caused many to feel weary and anxious for a questionable future and therefore led to a lot of self-reflection. How did you incorporate those themes into the writing process?

“I think a lot of the themes of what’s happening in the world around us just naturally make their way into our writing. It’s not really something that we have to think too hard about–it just naturally flows into our lyric writing and our intention and energy into the song. It’s not as planned out and conscious as you might think. When we’re writing the lyrics, we definitely reflect on them and tweak them based on what’s going on around us and how we want to portray ourselves in the public sphere, but it all just happens naturally.”

“Spirit” has multiple meanings–one is “qualities regarded as forming the definitive or typical elements in the character of a person, nation, or group.” The SPIRITS TEST you designed bases its result on how individuals perceive and react to these elements to determine their “SPIRIT TYPE.” What is your SPIRIT TYPE and what are some of its characteristics? How do you think those results feed into your musicianship or vice versa?

“My spirit type is the Tru type. I think the characteristics of the Tru type are more visionary and that lines up with my role in the band quite perfectly. I think when we take the SPIRITS TEST for each member in the band, it has really made a lot of sense as to why we interact the way we do with each other–everyone’s role, and everyone strengths and weaknesses. I think that it influences my writing very naturally. When writing lyrics, I gravitate towards the particular sounds or chords or the way my voice just emanates naturally. Mark and Dan are the Fuse types which are more on the heart side of the chart whereas I’m a little more on the head side. Our drummer Ben is a Constant and so that makes sense because we’re a little more analytical and destructive in our process. Mark and Dan are a little more heartfelt and creative in the sense that they’re the positive force and Ben and I are a little more the negative force and together they are making a Yin and Yang to our writing process.”

Nothing More’s mission statement is to “reflect, provoke and inspire.” Can you share how SPIRITS reflects, provokes and inspires?

“I think our lyrics are written in a way that we try to say what people have thought and felt that they didn’t quite know how to say themselves a lot of times. That’s the goal in our songwriting and I think with the album ‘SPIRITS,’ it is tapping into a deeper side. It’s a little more esoteric and a little less obvious in regard to the lyrics and the meanings and the messages behind some of the songs. It’s touching on a more subconscious level in people whereas on the songs from our self-titled album, the lyrics were a little more straightforward and you understood them consciously. This one touches on some deeper archetypal and older themes in the human spirit.”

If you had the ability to universally change one thing that would positively impact humanity, what would it be and why?

“I’m going to quote Alan Watts on this one; I think he actually was quoting someone else, but I heard it from him. He said that if everyone could have an organ in their body that was a constant reminder of death that they would live their lives in a way that looked very differently than the way that we tend to live our lives. I thought that was an interesting thought and I think that that might affect humanity for both better and worse. I don’t think it would be just for the better. It would be interesting to see what that would cause people to do and how it might change their behaviors.”

What are three surprising facts people might not know about you?

“‘The Office’ is my favorite TV show of all time. Stepbrothers is my favorite comedy movie of all time, and I love horror films and scary movie nights.”

Are there any particular books or films that have helped shape your sensibility as an artist?

“A book by Alan Watts called ‘The Book’ and then another one of his books called ‘Become Who You Are’–that’s a great one.”

If you were to record a duet with a current artist outside the genre of music for which you’re known, who might that be and which song would you cover and why?

“I’m going to say Carrie Underwood because she’s been a fan of the band and has even come out to one of our shows. I think it would be really interesting to do a duet with a country artist or someone just outside of the box that we’re typically in. If it were a cover song, ‘The World I Know’ by Collective Soul would be a great cover song on acoustic.”

A group of men sitting on stools Description automatically generated DOWNLOAD BAND PHOTO (Credit: Jody Domingue)

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For press inquiries, please contact:
SRO PR
Kelly Walsh – kwalsh@sropr.com
Mitch Schneider – mschneider@sropr.com

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