World-Class Studio, Black Rock Meets
Luxury Villa in Santorini, Greece. Oppa!

Spring is beautiful everywhere but when in Greece, be sure to ask for your expresso tour of Black Rock Studio with owner/manager, Kostas Kalimeris. Walk to sandy black beaches of Greek Isles straight from your SSL 9000J control room. Bask in the sun and take in the blue skies and Mediterranean air. Watch the spectacular sunrise and sunset from your suite while you create the most important work of your life - your next album or a soundtrack. Share the dream of engineer/mixer ...Read more here...

Joseph Magee
engineer l mixer l producer

Joseph Magee (Jonas Brothers, Hannah Montana, High School Musical 3) appears as supervising music mixer on the new Walt Disney Pictures 75 MIN. release in 3D Directed by Bruce Hendricks. Hannah Montana played by Miley Cyrus (daughter of achy-breaky country hitmaker Billy Ray Cyrus) leads a double life: awkward high schooler by day, pop sensation by night with special appearances by Joe Jonas, Kevin Jonas, Nick Jonas, Kenny Ortega & Billy Ray Cyrus, of course! Mixing concert footage with behind-the-scenes interstitials, has racked up awesome returns for Disney who has found a new winning formula. And luckily, Magee is part of it! Just look up his latest credits: Jonas Brothers 3D, Bandslam, Hannah Montana: The Movie/Miley Cyrus, High School Musical 3...Read more here

Simon Lynge
A Beautiful Way To Drown
Bright Orange Records

Simon Lynge is a remarkable artist. He held off recording “Beautiful Way To Drown” until
he was able to put the team together that made him comfortable. The team is Matt Forger (Michael Jackson, Paul McCartney) and Jon Mattox (The Young Dubliners) who joined with Simon to co-produce his CD, which will be released in Europe in May. "I met Matt Forger the very first time I was in LA in 2002 - he saw a show I did and invited me to his studio. The first time we sat down and talked about music, we cried together - I think that's all I need to say," says Lynge. The debut effort offers solid arrangements, harmonies and vocal and band performance. it was recorded at Bright Orange Studios, AniSound in Los Angeles and Sweet Silence Studios in Copenhagen, featuring an impressive group of musicians to include: legendary bass player Lee Sklar (James Taylor, Elton John) drummer Jay Bellerose (Marc Cohen, Madeleine Peyroux) guitarist Shane Fontayne (Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon) and many others. Forger is also credited for engineering, mixing and mastering the album.

Simon grew up listening to church hymns (dad and grandfather were organist). Mom played Sprinsteen and Lennon. His first prized possession on vinyl: Stevie Wonder's I just called to Say I Love You. Lynge who was schooled in Denmark and played in London and Nashville on music row, now lives in Los Angeles. He put together a band made up of the top Danish musicians and toured before making a record. "At that time we would play to crowds of 600 people and my show was televised . Everybody would always ask when my album was coming and I'd tell them that I was in no rush at all - I didn't feel ready or maybe I just wanted to be carefree for a bit longer," he says. In Nashville Simon met CMA "Song Of The Year" award winning songwriter and former Polydor A&R exec Larry Shell, who invited Simon back to Nashville and helped establish connections and make demos. "I actually spent a lot of time on Music Row where I slept on a mattress in an empty room of the publishing company Larry worked for - I'd wake up in the morning and go into the conference room and start writing, grab a cup of coffee and then write some more - got a lot of songs written that way". Simon is a gifted artist with a relaxed and secure vocal style who plays acoustic guitar with ease. Listen to him sing and play guitar in this home made YouTube posting of London Town from his new album or hear him talk about his influences on a video piece produced by NovaTunes
"I co-wrote the song 'London Town' off the new record, in London with my friend Richard Lobb - we met through the Kashmir Klub via Tony Moore, who started the venue. It was an incredible scene- I saw Imogen Heap, KT Tunstall and all these great acts before they broke - everybody performed there," says Simon. He draws influences from the Beatles to Beck and manages to masterfully merge 60's Folk (Simon & Garfunkel) with modern Indie Rock (John Mayer).

This album has a special quality. It's not rushed, the lyrics are accessible and Simon's voice and writing pulls it all together so effortlessly. It's like a dreamy landscape that keeps growing from different directions and it just warms your soul and surprises you in the most pleasant way, similar to the cover illustration (there's actually a naked mermaid wearing tattoos behind the trees!). The preface on the album jacket by Lynge is very personal. He talks about finding the need to express himself through music when he spent time working as delivery boy in as supermarket in Qaqortoq. He also talks about how an unusual friend (co-worker who had been a convicted killer and mafia boss) taught him not to judge people by their past. A Beautiful Way!

Bright Orange Records is Los Angles based and is home to an eclectic roster of gifted artists & bands. The label was started in 2006 by musician/producer/composer Jon Mattox. Goes on my play list and artists to watch!

Raquel Bitton
Bolero
City Hall Records

At first Bitton's sweet, highly emotional, playful cabaret, yet controlled voice evokes the feeling of early 20th century Paris (she's recognized as one of the greatest interpreter of Edith Piaf's repertoire). Raquel Bitton's new release is a French-Latin Jazz & Pop jewel celebrating the music of legendary Latin composers like Armando Manzanero, Consuelo Velasquez, Augustin Lara and Isolina Carillo. Her 7th album on City Hall Records is beautifully packaged with exquisite 20-page booklet including lyrics in both languages, biographies of composers and history of the Bolero. The CD cover illustration is by award winning Martin French (Los Lobos, The Chronicles of Narnia).
Mixed and engineered by 11x Grammy award winner Rafa Sardina, the album features 12 songs with Bitton accompanied by a 30- piece orchestra. Notable musicians include: Ramon Stagnaro on acoustic guitar, (Andrea Bocelli, Shakira, Luis Miguel), Cuban percussionists Orestes Vilato (Santana, Celia Cruz, Rubén Blades), Jesus Diaz (Tito Puente, Pete Escovedo Orchestra) and Rebeca Mauleon on Piano (Santana, Cachao, Joe Henderson). " I enjoyed working with Bitton's artistic vision for this album. During the sessions, she was a real joy, always prepared with good energy. She's truly at her romantic best on the Bolero, with her distinctive voice soaring along the lush string arrangements," says Sardina who recorded the tracks at Fantasy studios and mixed the album at After Hours in Woodland Hills.

Romance meets passion. "This is the Bolero, a true expression of my heart," says Bitton who fell in love with the Bolero when she listened to the sultry voices of Tona La Negra and Maria Dolores Pradera. Timeless classics include: Solamente una Vez by Augustin Laura
or Dos Gardenias by Isolina Carillo, the song that helped revive Ibrahim Ferrer's (the Buena VISTA Social Club) career and Besame Mucho, by Consuelo Velasquez are sung with Bitton's captivating voice. Look for her Piaf show with a full 30-piece orchestra scheduled for 2009/2010. Britton has also wrote music for a play she'll be starring in (commissioned by a major Theater company) called "The Sparrow and the Birdman," inspired by the friendship between Jean Cocteau and Edith Piaf. Boleros is available at retail outlets nationwide (US and Canada) and on Amazon, iTunes and most online music sites.

Daniela Spagnolo
Daniela Sings
CD Baby

On her new album, Daniela Sings, Daniela Spagnolo offers the listener velvety smooth vocal stylings inspired by jazz greats like Sarah Vaughn. Hardly a new comer to the big stage, she has worked with jazz notables to include: John Hammond and the late-great Lester Bass.
"I've learned to think on my feet and enjoy performing live. You never know what's going to happen when it's live ...so, you learn how to recover quickly and enjoy living dangerously,"
she says having toured with David Lee Roth, Patty Austin, Jackson Browne and Patrice Rushen. You probably have heard or seen Daniela in Film or Television - she has appeared on the Tonight Show w/ Jay Leno and Arsenio Hall. She has also lend her vocal talents to many commercials to include Lexus, Blockbuster Video, Timex and Bank Of Ohio w/James Earl Jones.
Italian-born and New York raised Daniela self-produced new album, "Daniela Sings" is comprised of songs -- she wrote Groove, Under One Heaven, I Don't Have to Cry Today, Backroads, Songno, Blue Skies 7, Across The Moon and few Jazz standards -- recorded at Capitol Studios in Hollywood CA with the legendary Al Schmitt at the helm.
She sings the sultry "Sogno" in Italian and the rest are in anglais.
Featured musicians on this album make a "world-class" jazz trio to include: Joe Porcaro on drums, Jim Hughart on bass & John Chiodini on guitar. Que Bella!

Electron Love Theory
In The Shadow of U2
iTunes

Tribute albums can be tough. When it comes to honoring a mega band like U2, well it's downright challenging. But, if you allow yourself to set aside what you already know about U2 and hear this labor of love by Jeff Leisawitz, you'll appreciate the fact that the artist here is not attempting in anyway to compete or improve. Here you get electronic covers of U2 songs with fourteen different female vocalists. At one point it even starts to grow on you. Enter Electron Love Theory injecting dance and chill pulsating grooves to "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For." After listening to the choice of incredible songs that have filled our party landscape, you get hooked. Again! Let's see what Jeff can do with "Sunday Bloody Sunday,"
I said to myself and kept listening until the end! Leisawitz produced, mixed and arranged in addition to playing guitars, bass, synth, loop manipulation, etc
This could be for the U2 fans out there or for anyone who likes to experiment and keep an open mind. The songs maintain their strength with different interpretation and color, different mood and attitude altogether. We dig the image on the album as well...it sort of pulls you in, if you know what I mean (wink)! Have a feeling the fans will crowd the dance floor or for those of you looking for familiar but updated material for your TV or film project, you may find the refreshing collection worth a spin. We understand Jeff has inked two international record deals. hooray! "It's already selling in Germany, Austria and Switzerland and it just came out in the USA and Canada on iTunes and Amazon," he says. And according to Jeff, In The Shadow of U2 should be in stores in the next few weeks. "This has been my life long dream and it is now finally coming around," he concludes. So, do Jeff a a mega favor and click over this link and buy the album and then be sure to write a short happy review of your own. We understand this will earn you extra karma points. I'm already feeling the Love!

New World Revolution
Karmakaze
CdBaby

Art meets Science with illuminating Sound. New World Revolution's debut “Karmakaze” offers
6 songs mixed by Sean Beavan, über-producer from outer space (NIN, Marilyn Manson, No Doubt, etc). The alternative space rock group with wall-of-sound fuzz guitars meet electronic production; danceable beats and psychedelic sonic layers carry futuristic lyrical messages. “Karmakaze” is released on March 25 and features an eclectic array of guest performances including Juliette Beavan (8mm), Shok (My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult) and Jeff Mice (Nina Hagen).

NWR is fronted by cult figure, Herwig Maurer, who was a member of the groundbreaking Mankind Liberation Front, and whose solo work has been championed by tastemaker DJs such as Carl Cox and John Digweed. A leading visionary, modern day renaissance man Maurer, is also an award winning film composer; music producer (HYPERNOVA, SIMONE WHITE etc.); photographer whose work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Alternative Press etc. His artwork has been shown beside luminaries such as Picasso, Warhol, Ruscha, Basquiats and John Lennon. Illustrations on the CD is by the renowned James Mathers (director, painter, poet, cult leader), whose works reside in the collections of Nicolas Cage, Eric Idle, Marina Guinness, Adam Horowitz etc. Yes, Art+Music=Value. Collectors rush in to get the Limited Edition CD/Comic packs, hand signed (Magickal Sigil Signatures) by Karmakaze artist Mathers and Maurer.

According to manager, Shannon O'Shea, this fresh new sound is birthed from a growing music/art/science scene orbiting the Pacific N3xus Gallery in Venice, Ca, which is reminiscent of a west coast version Andy Warhol’s The Factory. The heart of this cutting-edge community is located in Timothy Leary’s former HQ in the funky beach house community. Here, like-minded musicians, artists and scientists gather to show, collaborate and and share their work and futuristic philosophies. EPK at ReverbNation

Working On A Dream at Avatar
Bruce Springsteen's music video for "Working on a Dream" was recorded and filmed at Avatar's Studio C. John Mayer received Best Male Pop Vocal Performance Grammy for his song "Say" (featured in the film The Bucket List) at the 51st Grammy Awards presented on February 8th. He wrote the song in Avatar Studio C. The song was tracked in Studio C (basic tracks, vocals) and Studio A (overdubs, drums).

Toxic Avenger The Musical cast album recorded in Studio C with producer David Bryan (above), engineer Shane Stonebeck assisted by Aki Nishmura. Featuring book and lyrics by Joe DiPietro (I Love You, You're Perfect, Now Change) and music by David Bryan (Bon Jovi), The Toxic Avenger will begin performances on Wednesday, March 18, 2009, at New World Stages (340 West 50th Street). Opening Night is set for Monday, April 6th.

Manager Tino Passante reports that he has set up an alliance with a nearby hotel that is within walking distance (2 blocks!) to Avatar, and that offers the guaranteed best prices ($100/night or LESS in some cases!) in town to Avatar clients! The Washington Jefferson Hotel on West 51st Street is “Smart, Stylish, Sophisticated, and Affordable.” You may book direct or call Tino at no extra charge.

March 17, 2009

March 25, 2009

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Watch Video Interviews with Top producers from Legendary Studios
studioexpresso in alliance with Record Production & Babblefish is pleased to bring you these interviews. Watch the video interviews by clicking on the producer names below.
Get your FREE Real One Player download



Matt Wallace Interviewed At his Delux Studios in LA for Record Production
L-R: Producer Matt Wallace, studioexpresso's Claris Dodge
Photo: Johnny Jaskot

Ken Allardyce - Sarm West, UK
Lenise Bent - Village Studios. LA, CA
Niko Bolas - Watersound Studios, Studio CIty, CA
Pete Byrne - Glenwood Place, CA
Andre Fischer - Village Studios, Los Angels, CA
Chris Fogel - Fig, Glendale, CA
Brad Gilderman - Little Big Room, Burbank, CA
Greg Ladanyi - Maple Jam Productions, Studio City, CA
Joseph Magee - O'Henry Studios, Burbank, CA
Scott Mathews - Tiki Town Studios
Oscar Paul - Roundhouse Studios, London
Greg Penny - Sphere Studios, London
Steve Parr - Hear No Evil Studios
Michael C Ross - Royaltone Studios, North Hollywood, CA
Rafa Sardina - Abbey Road, UK
Elliot Scheiner - Presense studios, CT NEW!
Al Schmitt Capitol Studios, Hollywood, CA
Toby Scott -- coming soon!
Robert Shahnazarian Jr.-- Sony Music Studios, Santa Monica
Tolbert & Sutton - Studio Atlantis, Hollywood, CA
Matt Wallace - Delux Studios, Van Nuys, CA
John Wooler - Village Studios, Los Angels, CA

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TUBE-TECH GEAR CHOSEN FOR PRESTIGIOUS RECORDING ARTS STUDIO

Southwestern College, located between San Diego and the international border with Mexico, recently unveiled a brand new recording arts studio as part of its commercial music program.
Costing $6.5 million, the two-building complex is one of the most technically-advanced media facilities in the nation's community college system, and features a cross-section of high-end recording equipment in the main studio, including a pair each of Tube-Tech's CL 1B opto compressors and SMC 2B stereo multi-band compressors. The facilities are designed to give students a real world education in analog and digital audio equipment, according to Arts & Communications professor James 'Jay' Henry, who has been a recording engineer and studio manager for 35 years, and took over the program about ten years ago. "The whole philosophy was to build a real recording studio that would actually draw professional engineers and producers to come and work on projects.
Students can observe, interact and learn but, more importantly, when they go into the real world, they're not going to be overawed by the equipment they see in a modern studio."

Henry, who was first introduced to TUBE-TECH by Stevie Wonder while working with him on a charity record project, continues, "TUBE-TECH's stereo multi-band compressor is my favorite box. I use those as program compressors, instead of the buss compressor on the SSL console, simply because it adds a different color. What I also really like about the TUBE-TECH is that it adds inherent warmth. We have an SSL Duality and it's fabulous to throw that across the stereo buss. It just warms things up."

Henry shares that he recently re-equalized and re-mastered a project for a country music client using the SMC 2B. "The client called me and said, 'The remix is amazing. The bass is amazing!' I said, wait a minute. You sent me a stereo mix. All I did was re-EQ and dynamically balance it. It's multi-band compression, thanks to my analog friends there in Denmark," he says.

TransAudio Group, based in Las Vegas, Nevada, recently acquired US and Canadian distribution for TUBE-TECH, a Denmark-based engineering and manufacturing firm with a twenty-four year-old history of building world-class tube compressors, equalizers, and mic pres of uncompromised fidelity and reliability. Phone (702) 307-2700 or email Brad Lunde More info at www.transaudiogroup.com

The new facility incorporates a video post-production room, two Digidesign Pro Tools HD suites and a main recording room - Studio A - which was designed by renowned acoustician Carl Yancher of Yancher Design, all tied together by an Espial Evo nine terabyte server. Tie lines to classrooms, animation facilities, and a computer lab housing forty Macintosh G5 machines support data networking as well as video broadcasts from the studio.

TransAudio Group, founded by industry veteran Brad Lunde, has quickly become the premier US importer/distributor and/or US sales and marketing representative for high-end audio. Success hinges on TransAudio providing dealers and end users with a higher standard of product expertise and support far beyond the norm. TAG product line includes A-Designs (USA),ATC Loudspeakers (UK), Bock Audio (USA), Geoffrey Daking & Co. (USA) Drawmer (UK), George Massenburg Labs (GML USA), SABRA SOM (Brazil), SoundField Microphones (UK), Tonelux, True Systems, Tube-Tech

LasVegasProAudio.com is a division of TransAudio Group, is the launch pad for the brands of tomorrow. The goal of LasVegasProAudio.com is to provide unique equipment, useful information and long-term support to their clients.
LVPA product line includes: Accusound Cable, Economy 50mm Shockmount,Enhanced Audio (Ireland), PAULY Superscreens (Germany)Sonodore Microphones (Holland)

Expresso Walk And Talk... .

CelebrityAccess EventWire is the ultimate resource for entertainment professionals and the largest provider of news and information to the live performance entertainment industry for over 10 years. EventWire provides profiles on over 35,000 celebrities including direct and detailed contact information and bios for celebrities and their managers and agents, promoters, venues, talent buyers and sellers. You can also get tour dates, box office scores, performance fee ranges, artist availability and so much more. EventWire gives you instant access to the vital, accurate and immediate information while keeping you up to date and on top of the fast changing entertainment industry. EventWire is not simply a database, it's the way to do business.
Enroll for a FREE Trial at www.celebrityacces.com click on Free Trial at the top And subscribe to Encore our FREE weekly newsletter reaching out to over 50,000 industry professionals www.celebrityaccess.com/encore.

To SXSW, or Not To SXSW


Dropping the roughly $700 (add travel expenses) on a badge is a tall order for many who want the SXSW experience.
For developing artists, the choice to play SXSW is still very optional. Good reasons are PR supported record release events or when you play multiple showcases over the course of the week. Best moments at SXSW, other than seeing Jane's Addiction from the front row: Networking. The opportunities to meet agents, labels, managers and sharing ideas are priceless. Discovering new music is always the best part. Most agree. There will never be a widget to replace a well put together team with experience and capital, but technology and the social networking culture is absolutely allowing for smart, savvy aspiring talent to get their art out to masses. Whether or not they are successful (which is also a sliding scale) is no longer up to gatekeepers rather, artists live or die by the ability of their music to attract, grow and monetize a fanbase.

studioexpresso SXSW Live Picks!

l-r: Christopher Rees, The Cheek

Sign of a great performer? When you see a fan (in this cae age 6, maybe 8) dancing, no going crazy, in front of the act!
I was drawn to Christopher Rees' rootsy rythms and storytelling at Java Jive room at the Hilton. He switched from acoustic guitar to banjo and harmonica and delivered the songs he had been writing like a true troubadour. I later learned that Rees has his own label, RedEye. He was shy to give an interview but made sure I was on his guest list. The Llanelli (South Wales) man sounded more like a young Johnny Cash. Rees said it's his third time at SXSW. Charmed.

The Cheek (formerly known as Cheeky Cheeky And The Nosebleeds) from UK – all under 21 with loads of charm, tight sound and good songs debuted their first set of American shows at SXSW. We happen to cross the Irish pub, Riley's in Austin and the band stopped us on our tracks with their raw energy and performance that you don't expect to hear from a small club band.
These guys have loads of charm as in early Beatles. They like fun and it shows. First of all, the lead singer prioritized their agenda by having a visit to the Governor's Mansion in Austin. "It's recognized as one of the finest examples of nineteenth century ante-bellum architecture," says Dobney. "Kites are great too," he continues: "but can be a terrible distraction, as we have found to our cost. We once flew Kites for four days, and Ali missed his wedding." The band recently shortened its name. "It takes about two seconds to say 'Cheeky Cheeky And The Nosebleeds', and we say our band name sometimes 20 times a day. That's like four-and-a-half minutes every week. More than four hours a year. "We're getting an extra three hours a year back just by becoming The Cheek." The band is currently holed up in the studio, recording with White Lies, Pulp and Suede producer Ed Buller. Dobney said they are trying to write "pop songs for the decade to come." Who do The Cheeks like? Wavves, Thee Oh Sees, Black Lips, MSTRKRFT. We like them.

studioexpresso SXSW CD Picks (actually they picked us, gratefully)!

l-r: Kristoff Silva; The Webb Sisters, Lolli Zan, Josh Tatum

Brazil Calling. I shared an airport shuttle with Kristoff Silva and his band mate on the way to my hotel in University Village-- immediately recognized him from the CD I received when we said our good-byes (sans his artful beard on the CD cover)!
Silva plays acoustic guitar and sings on this CD that bears no title - a collection of 12 songs. Silva who also writes is quick to explain that his 5-piece band could not play with him in Austin because of the prohibiting travel expenses. So, we chatted about Brazil and modern architecture. Then exchanged cards and I got invited to their showcase on Friday (unfortunately my plans required that I return one day before). As I'm listening to Silva's CD, haunting sounds and melodies with pristine performance and arrangements dominate the landscape...in fact the language barrier disappears. I don't understand Portuguese, but can clearly hear the longing, loss, joy and love that's in Kristoff's music who happens to be a decent whistler too! Hints of classical, jazz and world sounds grow on you...he sounds different but enjoyable. We should add that Kristoff's official website and album graphics are superb and rival any major label effort. Synchronicty in action meeting him on the bus! Nimesh ('Nimo') Gandhi from New York via Mumbai was also in our shuttle to Austin. He shared his CD,Lolli Zan before reaching his destination. "Good Timing," Nimo says of his genre of music "our music is properly positioned to ride on the success of Oscar winning Slum Dog Millionaires soundtrack," he continues. Actually, we found Nimo's music more nostalgic of 80s British bands. I ran into manager/producer and legendary artist Peter Asher in front of Hilton while crossing the street. Two attractive young ladies accompanied him. When you get an incredible name like Asher attached to a developing artist, that begs the question. Who's the act? They were quick to give me their CD, The Webb Sisters Comes In Twos - a four song EP produced by Asher himself. Musicians on this CD read like who's who in session work: Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel, Dean Parks, to name a few. Nice harmonies and arrangements. Production is spars but pristine to showcase the beautiful voices and writing that's mature and commercial. These ladies get around. Just one look at their touring schedule - Austin, Phoenix, San Diego - many other US cities in Canada and UK. The sun was blinding on 6th Street and so is the future of The Webb Sisters who tour with Leonard Cohen. I headed to Four Season's for the Grammy reception. Good to see Jeff Greenberg of Village Studios with fabu engineer/mixer Ed Cherney who has his private studio at the facility there and Maureen Droney of Engineer/producer wing. Met some new faces...crossed paths with James Wolff who told me about his electronic rock outfit Scary River from Baltimore. "We have a full length commercial release called 'Eye Sweat Lightning' distributed through Morphius Records, promoted by Good Cop PR, and Ariel Cyber Publicity (his card has everyone's emails in FINE print)," says Wolff who also manages a cabaret singer, Tom Moore. A recent graduate of Peabody Conservatory, Wolff has a degree in Composition. He studied with Grammy winner Nicholas Maw and works in a studio engineering and A&Rs at Phoenix Group (EMI Publishing) with Shawn Campbell who was recently nominated for a Grammy in best RB album of the year (Karina Passian). Ok. There's nice Grammy member for ya. I can't remember where I got Josh Tatum's CD. But, I immediately noticed that right on the cover it says he's playing SXSW on March 19, 8pm at Rusty Spurs (address and all) and below that, it says he's at the Viper Room on March 23. Kudos to Josh and/or his manager for having and sharing this timely information.
Good marketing and preparation, indeed! A Texan, Josh spent some time in Studio City, California and is a self-confessed fan of Eagles (though he sounds like Jason Mraz and could be John Mayer's brother).

Photo SXSW badge, Gerry Stober, studioexpresso's Claris at Texas University, Austin, Famous IronWorks BBQ

Inspired Delivery: Quincy Jones keynote. He got everyone's attention from the get-go by striking a personal and political tone--a flyer sat on every seat inside the auditorium, promoting Jones's push for a "Secretary of the Arts" in President Barack Obama's Cabinet (I had gotten the email weeks before). "We' ve tried iTunes and iPods, but we're still getting iScrewed," said Jones, wearing sunglasses, white slacks, a brown plaid shirt, and a dark brown scarf.
"People either believe they deserve success in the music industry or they think they are "fooling everybody," sats Jones (Ray Charles, Michael Jackson, Count Basie) who advices to take the emphasis off the self. "You're a terminal for a higher power. You have to keep thinking like that," says the 76-year-young producer. Hear the entire speech here. Then he went on to introduce 14-year-old Philadelphia singer Bianca Ryan (winner of the premier season of America's Got Talent), who performed "God Bless The Child" accompanied by recent Cuban emigrant Alfredo Rodriguez, who followed with his own scorching Latin jazz solo on piano.
It was time for an espresso, so I walked over to Four Season's hotel lakeside (recommended by my Austin friend, Jay Aaron). Talk about sixth degree of separation. Who sits next to me, but singer/songwriter, Gerry Stober. We clicked from the start. We talked about Quincy's keynote that Thursday afternoon. When you talk to Gerry or listen to his music, you can tell he subscribes to the same high ethics that Jones referred. Just when you think his songs fit Christian artists like Amie Grant, he throws a hard rock curve at you. Gerry is versatile! Want to hear the crazy part? We started talking about this other cool music man back in Los Angeles and realized we both know and work with him -producer/mixer/engineer, Michael C Ross!
Michael and Jerry met when Stober read an article on studioexpresso and came across Ross' profile. It lead to a long working relationship. So, that's how good people connect -reading the paper, sitting next to each other, or visiting studioexpresso.com! Singer Billy Hufsey on Blaster Records joined in the conversation and immediately recognized Stober's name. "I've been singing one of your songs man," he says. Suddenly Jones' keynote took on a deeper meaning. Indeed, we may be guided by this higher power as we make choices, then rewarded when we respect and honor our commitments. All this philosophical talk was making me hungry. So, we headed out to catch some good Austin style BBQ at Ironworks - now on everyone's list of "To Do's" Most humbled to meet you Gerry. Sorry, the BBQ line was too long!

Icing On The Cake We shared a cab ride and hotel with Legendary mixer/engineer Bob Clearmountain of MixThis! and partner and Apogee cofounder/president Betty Bennett. Most enjoyable conversation to the convention center where Apogee had a nice booth. "Say hello to Lucas VanDerMee, my favorite tech and humanoid," I asked Betty. He takes such good care of our fabu producers who dig Apogee gear. And, thanks for picking up the taxi tab, Ms BB. Sweet!

Universal Music Nashville Promotes Jason Owen to Senior VP of Artist Development and Marketing. The country music division of Universal Music Group (UMG), it was announced by Luke Lewis, Chairman of Universal Music Nashville, to whom he reports. In addition to directing all of the publicity, creative and video activities for MCA and Mercury Nashville, Owen will now also oversee the digital and marketing departments for both companies." His expertise, leadership qualities and outstanding people skills have made him an invaluable asset to our team and artists, and we are delighted to expand the playing field for him even further,” says Lewis. Most recently, Owen served as Senior Vice President of Artist, Media Relations and Creative Services for MCA and Mercury Nashville, where he was instrumental in the break-through success of such chart-topping artists as Sugarland, Julianne Hough, Josh Turner and Jamey Johnson as well as handling all publicity/creative efforts for country superstars Shania Twain, George Strait, Lee Ann Womack and Reba McEntire, among many others. Prior to joining Universal, Owen enjoyed an extensive and successful career in television, serving as Director of Marketing and Talent Relations at Columbia TriStar Television. His background also includes stints with Spelling Entertainment and New Line Cinema/Fine Line Features.

MySpace Music has made three additions to their senior executive team including SVP of Strategy and Global Marketing, a Chief Technology Officer, and a VP of Business and Legal Affairs. Jamie Kantrowitz was named SVP Strategy and Global Marketing. She will also oversee content partnerships and original programming, label relations, and marketing initiatives worldwide. She will be based in New York, where MySpace Music will add an office. Jamie had served as MySpace’s SVP President, International Marketing and Content based in London. Alex Maghen will serve as Chief Technology Officer for MySpace Music. Previous positions include CTO at Yahoo! Music/Launch Media and at MTV Networks Online. Nancy Taylor joins MySpace Music as Lead Counsel, VP Business and Legal Affairs. Most recently she was SVP, Office of the Chairman and CEO of Warner/Chappell Music. "We are so excited to welcome these incredibly talented individuals to our growing MySpace Music team,” said Courtney Holt, President of MySpace Music. Additionally, during the last few months the company has made product enhancements designed to improve the user experience on MySpace Music including a new music player, public playlisting, unlimited number of playlists, album pages, artist activity feeds, new music search functionality, artist authentication, and top search terms.
Scalper site TicketsNow Troubles Customer Is The Boss. Fans of Bruce Springsteen who signed on to Ticketmaster earlier this month to buy concert tickets were told that they had sold out within minutes, and were directed to TicketsNow, which had considerably more expensive tickets. The Wall Street Journal reported that a number of top artists, including Elton John, Neil Diamond, Britney Spears and Bon Jovi, have been colluding with Ticketmaster to sell blocks of premium tickets on one of Ticketmaster's online scalping sites, TicketExchange, for a significant markup. Pressed on whether Ticketmaster would sell TicketsNow, Azoff demurred at first, but finally said that for the right price, "I would certainly vote to do that." While the public relations black eye that TicketsNow gave Ticketmaster would not normally be considered by the Justice Department as it assesses whether the merger is legal under antitrust law, the issue loomed large in hearings held by lawmakers troubled by what they see are high and rising concert ticket prices. They also seem troubled that a merger of behemoths would give the new company excessive clout in the music industry. Azoff and Live Nation Inc. CEO Michael Rapino argued that the merger was needed because of economic woes in the music industry, partially caused by widespread piracy. They predicted that a merger could create jobs. Azoff, who came to Ticketmaster Entertainment Inc four months ago, had previously said he disagreed with the decision to buy TicketsNow.Ticketmaster posted a loss of $1.07 billion for the fourth quarter after writing down $1.1 billion for loss of goodwill. The company justified this accounting manoeuver on the basis of falling share prices. Ticketmaster has agreed to alter some of its business practices and pay $350,000 to cover the investigation. As part of the settlement, they will stop linking customers to Ticketmaster-owned scalper site TicketsNow for at least one year. After that, they'll need permission from the Attorney General for any links.Ticketmaster will also now sale tickets for general public on-sales only through their site, and that tickets will not be sold or offered on TicketsNow until the on-sale begins. As for the Springsteen show, Ticketmaster must run a lottery that for 2,000 tickets at face value to fans who purchased ducats to Springsteen's May 21 and 23 concerts in East Rutherford, N.J. All fees and service charges will be waived. They must also refund customers who purchased tickets through TicketsNow within the first five hours of the Springsteen on-sale. Fans who do not win the lottery will be given $100 Ticketmaster gift cards, and preferential buying on the next Springsteen show in New Jersey.

A Jolly Good Fellow Peter Grueneisen, studio bau:ton founder and principal at nonzero I architecture, was elevated by the American Institute of Architects to its prestigious College of Fellows in March.
He will be inducted at the 2009 National Convention, held this May in San Francisco, CA. The honor is awarded to architects who have made contributions of national significance to the profession of architecture, and is considered one of the highest honors bestowed to a select group of architects by a jury of their peers. From a national membership of more than 80,000 architects, fewer than 2,500 AIA members are distinguished with the honor of Fellowship. Also taken into consideration are an individual’s contributions to the advancement of living standards through an improved society with significant public service. The new fellows are entitled to use the designation of “FAIA” following their names. Photo Above: John Ellis Peter Grueneisen's changes to a 1949 Richard Neutra house followed two basic principles: blending the additions into the original structure, and maintaining and reinforcing the open flow between inside and out. Also check Soundspace by Peter Grueneisenan, a book that offers an eclectic survey of issues central to building for contemporary media. Renowned guest authors from the fields of media and architecture have contributed ideas and projects, and a detailed overview of architectural acoustics serves as an integrated technical guide. practical applications are presented in a beautifully illustrated portfolio of distinguished projects by studio bau:ton, ranging from museums to recording studios and film production facilities. Congrats PG!

Spellbound Mansion Candy Spelling, the widow of Aaron Spelling and mother of Tori Spelling, has put her infamous mansion up for sale. With an asking price of $150 million, The Manor is the most expensive home for sale in the US. The home has a bowling alley, beauty salon, gift wrapping room, and a service wing with a kitchen, 5 bathrooms, 4 wet bars, 5 fireplaces, tennis court, fountains, a waterfall, a pool and spa, a reflection pool and a pool house with a kitchen, and 16 car ports.
The estate also boasts an 18th Century-style garden, a rooftop rose garden and a citrus orchard.
"I have a lot of wonderful, wonderful, wonderful feelings about this house and special things that I went through in building it, with a love that you can't even imagine, yet I feel like I'm moving on to a new chapter in my life," said Candy who purchased a 2 story penthouse condo in Century City for a record 47 million dollars in July 2008. Her new bedroom is reported to be 4000sf. The building is being built on the site of the old St. Regis Hotel on Avenue of the Stars next door to the Century Plaza Hotel. The mansion was the site of Bing Crosby's home, torn down to make room for the Spelling Mansion. Sally Forster Jones with Coldwell Banker (310)281-3999 is said to be the listing agent.

Artists COME TOGETHER



Band/location: TAYLOR WARREN, Orange County 17 years old
Who Meets Who: Alt rock
Milestone: Maple Jam Records, Secured TV music licenses, Won quarterfinals, moving to semi-finals for Battle of the Bands, Southern California, Video "Never Wanted" on YOUTUBE filmed by The Film Edge.com Director, Oscar Alvarez. Next Showcase April 7 @ The Knitting Factory - 8pm - Los Angeles
(RSVP to Maple Jam [email protected]

"We all need to move forward at an accelerated pace, create new, sustainable partnerships, empower new models,
help 3 guys in a loft in San Francisco or a flat in Shoreditch to succeed."
- Ted Cohen on staff changes at EMI and the need for change throughout the music industry on the MidemNet blog.

"My path to the music industry was an improbable one," said Jones, noting he grew up in Chicago in a neighborhood surrounded by old-style gangsters who carried Tommy guns. "Truth is," he said. "We wanted to be gangsters." But, Jones said, "Music would nourish my mind and soul, and it would save my life."
--Quincy Jones, keynote at SXSW

All You Need Is Love
-- The Beatles

Congrats to proud parents, Mr & Mrs John Rodd - baby, Frida now four months old!
John has been busy building a studio designed by world-renowned studio designer, and acoustician Peter Grueneisen of nonzero l architecture. He just returned from San Francisco where he was the speaker at the Game Developers Conference and recorded, mixed, and mastered the score for composer Cliff Martinez (Traffic, Solaris) for the feature film Espion(s).

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