by RaynaMon40 | Nov 12, 2023 | News
CHICAGO, November 12, 2023 – ProgRock.com’s Essentials, a boutique record label renowned for its unique selection of progressive rock bands, is thrilled to announce the addition of three new bands to its roster: Luz de Riada, Sonus Umbra, and The Devil’s Staircase. Each band brings a unique sound and vision that aligns with the label’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of progressive music.
Luz de Riada Unveils ‘Rizoma’
After a hiatus since their last studio album in 2016, Luz de Riada is back with an exciting lineup and an upcoming album, ‘Rizoma’. The album title carries a dual meaning: in biology, it refers to “a form of root that can generate wholly, even from a small piece,” as explained by bass guitarist Luis Nasser. In the realms of psychology and philosophy, ‘Rizoma’ refers to “the structure of ideas in the form of a network (neural or the internet) that can reconnect in multiple ways rather than a top to bottom hierarchy,” Nasser adds.
The band now features original members Ramses Luna and Edgar Arrellin, who are joined by Luis Nasser on bass guitar and Sergio Aldama on drums and electronic percussion.
‘Rizoma’ is set to be released in January to coincide with their tour starting on January 8 in Santiago, Chile, with further dates across Argentina and Chile.
Sonus Umbra Celebrates 30 Years with ‘Whiteout’
Celebrating their 30th year, Sonus Umbra is ready to make waves in the progressive rock scene with their 8th studio album, ‘Whiteout’. The band for this album comprises Tim McCaskey on acoustic and electric guitars, Luis Nasser on bass, keyboards, pedals, and sound design, and Andy Tillotson on drums, keyboards, synth, guitar, and sound design. Slated for release in early 2024, ‘Whiteout’ is the band’s first instrumental album.
‘Whiteout’ features a host of guest appearances, including new collaborators and returning associates from the band’s past. Luis Nasser describes Sonus Umbra as “a musical collective that’s been making composed, coordinated sound for more than 3 decades. Our music approximates what librarians call prog rock.”
The Devil’s Staircase: Music Meets Mathematics
The Devil’s Staircase is currently working on their second album, set to be released in Fall 2024. The same lineup will be returning, with the project partly funded by the National Science Foundation.
This innovative band is known for their fusion of math and music, offering a unique approach to understanding mathematics through the enjoyment of music. Their work represents a remarkable combination of different schools of thought, further enriching the diversity of the ProgRock.com’s Essentials lineup.
Bass guitarist Luis Nasser characterizes the band’s mission, stating: “The mission statement of The Devil’s Staircase is to take the mathematical principles which give rise to order in nature – which is simple mathematical rules iterated over and over and over, add a random error and watch the patterns emerge. We are trying to compose music that reflects that ethos.”
About ProgRock.com’s Essentails
ProgRock.com’s Essentials is a boutique platform dedicated to promoting progressive rock music. With a commitment to showcasing exceptional talent, the label aims to support artists in their creative pursuits and contribute to the growth and development of the genre. ProgRock.com’s Essentials is driven by a passion for musical innovation and excellence and strives to be a trusted source for remarkable progressive rock artists.
For media inquiries and interviews, please contact:
Progrock.com’s Essentials at progrock.com/contact/
by RaynaMon40 | Aug 3, 2023 | News
Progressive fusion ensemble Unitopia announce new studio album Seven Chambers – Pre-Orders start today!
by RaynaMon40 | Jul 13, 2023 | News
ProgRock.com’s Essentials is excited to announce the full Unitopia Seven Chambers Tour. Unitopia will be touring Europe and the US in September/October 2023. The tour kicks off at the 2 Days Prog Plus 1 festival in Veruno, Italy on September 3 and concludes at the ProgStock festival in Rutherford, NJ, USA on October 8.
Touring Members include:
Sean Timms – Keyboards
Mark Trueack – Vocals
John Greenwood – Guitar
Steve Unruh – Flute/Violin/Guitar/Percussion
Chester Thompson – Drums
Don Schiff – Chapman Stick
by RaynaMon40 | Jul 12, 2023 | News
ProgRock.com’s Essentials is thrilled to announce the signing of the renowned drummer/percussionist Chester Thompson. With a distinguished career spanning decades and an unparalleled mastery of the drums/percussion, Thompson brings his prodigious talents to the forefront of the music scene, enriching the label’s roster with his exceptional musicality.
Chester Thompson’s remarkable journey through music has seen him collaborate with some of the most iconic artists in the industry. From his extensive work with Genesis, where he provided the pulsating rhythmic backbone, to his electrifying performances with Phil Collins, Thompson’s contributions have left an indelible mark on the world of rock and progressive music.
In addition to his work with Genesis and Phil Collins, Thompson has also made significant contributions to other legendary bands and artists. As a member of Weather Report, he brought his dynamic drumming style and creative sensibilities to the forefront, contributing to the band’s innovative fusion sound. Thompson’s collaboration with Frank Zappa further showcased his versatility and virtuosity, as he seamlessly transitioned between intricate time signatures and complex arrangements, earning him acclaim for his exceptional musicianship.
As a solo artist, Thompson has captivated audiences with his own brand of instrumental wizardry, blending intricate melodies, intricate time signatures, and captivating improvisation. His solo albums have garnered critical acclaim and have been cherished by music enthusiasts worldwide.
“We are truly honored to have Chester Thompson join our label,” expressed Mark Monforti, Founder of ProgRock.com’s Essentials. “Chester is an iconic talent within the progressive rock and jazz fusion genres. We look forward to collaborating with him and supporting his creative endeavors.”
With the signing of Chester Thompson, ProgRock.com’s Essentials solidifies its position as a growing force in the progressive rock scene. Thompson’s upcoming projects, set to be released under the label, are highly anticipated.
About ProgRock.com’s Essentials:
ProgRock.com’s Essentials is a boutique platform dedicated to promoting progressive rock music. With a commitment to showcasing exceptional talent, the label aims to support artists in their creative pursuits and contribute to the growth and development of the genre. ProgRock.com’s Essentials is driven by a passion for musical innovation and excellence and strives to be a trusted source for remarkable progressive rock artists.
For media inquiries and interviews, please contact:
Progrock.com’s Essentials at progrock.com/contact/
by RaynaMon40 | Jun 5, 2023 | News
Alphonso Johnson Unable to Tour with Unitopia in September, Don Schiff to Join as Replacement
[June 5, 2023] – It is with regret that Unitopia announces that bassist Alphonso Johnson will no longer be able to join the band on their upcoming “Seven Chambers” tour in September due to unforeseen circumstances. The band, however, is thrilled to announce that acclaimed musician Don Schiff will be stepping in to fill the void left by Johnson’s absence.
In the wake of Johnson’s unavailability, Don Schiff emerges as the ideal candidate to take his place. Schiff is no stranger to the world of progressive rock, having carved out a remarkable career spanning several decades. His mastery of the Chapman Stick, an innovative and versatile instrument, has made him a sought-after collaborator and a revered figure in the genre.
Don Schiff’s progressive rock journey began in the early 1990s when he joined the legendary rock band Rocket Scientists. Since then, he has contributed his exceptional skills to numerous groundbreaking projects and has worked with an impressive roster of artists, including the likes of Eddie Jobson, Lana Lane, and Erik Norlander.
Schiff’s ability to blend complex melodies, captivating rhythms, and intricate textures with the Chapman Stick has made him an influential figure in the progressive rock scene. His distinctive sound and virtuosic performances have captivated audiences worldwide, earning him critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Don Schiff’s versatile musical journey extends beyond progressive rock, as he has also made notable contributions to the world of pop music, collaborating with renowned artists such as Madonna, Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Sheryl Crow, Pat Benetar, Tina Turner and Elvis Presley, among others. His exceptional skills on the bass have enriched the soundscapes of their chart-topping hits, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after musician across genres. Schiff’s ability to seamlessly transition between progressive rock and pop showcases his remarkable versatility and underscores his status as a respected figure in the music industry.
Unitopia is thrilled to have Don Schiff joining them on their upcoming tour, and they are confident that his immense talent and passion for progressive rock will bring a fresh energy to their live performances. Audiences can expect an unforgettable musical experience as Schiff seamlessly integrates with the band, contributing his unique style and expertise to the beloved Unitopia repertoire.
Unitopia expresses their gratitude to Alphonso Johnson for his contributions and sends their warmest wishes for whatever lies ahead. They are grateful for the understanding and continued support of their fans as they embark on this new chapter with Don Schiff.
For more information about Unitopia’s upcoming tour and Don Schiff’s addition to the lineup, please visit the band’s official website.
About Unitopia:
UNITOPIA (yu-nih-to-pi-E): meaning living together as one in a place of ideal perfection especially in law, government and social conditions.
Unitopia endeavors to draw from the heart and soul of the listener thought provoking topics such as environmental awareness, political and social upheaval and the hectic pace of life and human relationships in a positive and uplifting light. Using progressive themes as a framework, Unitopia’s music includes elements of world, classical, jazz, heavy rock, and groove.
About Upcoming Release “Seven Chambers:
The current members of Unitopia have trodden varying paths where some have encountered serious heart disease, tumors, metabolic disorders, joint disease and psychological upheaval. The “Seven Chambers” is a concept album based on the band’s experiences of illness, a dark subject perhaps, but the simple fact that all four are still here and producing music bears witness to good outcomes and is cause for optimism and grounds for hope.
Media Contact:
Twitter: @EssentialProg
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/progrockessentials
https://essentials.progrock.com/
