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Renowned Comedian Brendan McKeigan Announces Live Special Recording In Ottawa On December 2

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Renowned comedian Brendan McKeigan from Ottawa, Ontario, known for his energetic and hilarious performances, is back with a bang as he announces his live comedy special recording of Happy Hour on December 2 at the Overflow Brewing Co. in Ottawa, ON.

“I had the idea for this special lined up a while ago. It was February 2020 when I had the venue booked for that fall. Well, we all know what happened there. It was a little bit of a blessing in disguise because since then, my family has grown, and I have WAY more stories to tell,” Brendan revealed, offering a glimpse into the inspiration behind his upcoming comedy special.

Since Brendan’s first comedy special, “Make It A Double,” in 2014, his life has taken on many twists and turns. The “Happy Hour” tour vows to be a wild and rip-roaring experience, as Brendan draws humour from his own life, transforming real-life situations into comedic gold. The Ottawa native is known for his energetic, fun, non-political, and sometimes a bit ridiculous flair.

Since 2003, Brendan has been an internationally touring headliner performing at Just For Laughs, 1000 Islands Comedy Festival, Crackup Festival’s closing gala for 2300 people at the National Arts Center, Crackup’s Summer Fest Gala and the LOL Sudbury Comedy Festival. With experiences like performing for troops in the Middle East and Africa and appearances on notable platforms like CBC’s Laugh Out Loud and George Stroumboulopoulos’ Tonight, he has solidified his position as a comic sensation.

Israeli-Canadian Composer George Gagnidze Drops Electrifying New Single ‘Composition 800’

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George Gagnidze is a talented Israeli-Canadian composer with a knack for curating gripping electronica compositions. Currently residing in Vaughan, ON, the artist has returned with a brand-new single “Composition 800.”

Written, produced and composed entirely by Gagnidze, “Composition 800” is an enchanting electronic composition to sink your teeth into. As you make your way through this track the artist takes you on an alluring passage of dark keywork and warped production – a captivating touch to say the least.

Not only a talented composer, but a multifaceted artist and poet in his own right. Throughout his career Gagnidze has worked on a string of projects, from solo to orchestral pieces, to film, visual arts and more. Gagnidze carves his soundscape by weaving in speckles of ambient electronica with electro tendencies. Although taking a particular interest in the experimental realm of electronica, Gagnidze has written over 800 compositions and loves a wide spectrum of genres.

In 2020, Gagnidze began composing on the themes of visual artists from around the world, over 30 pieces based on paintings total and released his debut single “Composition 226 for String Orchestra (Electronic Version)” – a beautiful track that is both daunting and enticing. Flickering between light to dark tendencies, “Composition 226 for String Orchestra (Electronic Version)” has you desperately itching for more, one intricately placed note at a time. From the moment Gagnidze shared this single, it became clear which direction he would take his forthcoming compositions into. Much like his discography, this song unravelled a plethora of layers to the artist and gave fans an exciting glimmer into what to expect on later projects.

Fast forward three years and Gagnidze has released “Composition 800.” This track represents a significant next step for the artist, as not only is it his debut single of 2023 but it swiftly follows on from his second studio album “19 Pieces for Mixed Media” which he dropped in April 2022, the same year he released his debut album “12 Pieces for Solo Piano.”

Gagnidze has a strong passion for creating and takes huge pride in his work. Forever thinking of ways to evolve his rich soundscape, Gagnidze makes sure to compose daily to keep his rhythm and creativity alive. Although he doesn’t take much inspiration from celebrity figures, one person he is inspired by is his father, Merab Gagnidze, who is also a talented composer. Speaking about how he navigates his creative vision Gagnidze says: “I don’t believe in inspiration, only in hard work. I have been composing daily for many years. Just like performers practice daily, it is a good idea for composers to compose regularly so that they are ready for whatever comes next through them.”

After Fan Requests, Canadian Singer-Songwriter Ron Kalmakoff Releases His First Holiday Single “Christmas Once Again”

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Singer-songwriter Ron Kalmakoff’s music is so closely correlated with evoking vivid nostalgia in his listeners, that his fans asked for years if he would ever consider releasing a full Christmas album. This holiday season they are in luck, as his first ever Christmas single “Christmas Once Again,” just in time to incorporate into this year’s music memories.

Before migrating to the west coast of Canada, Kalmakoff spent his childhood roaming the prairies of Canora, Saskatchewan, an experience he illustrates in an earlier song of his entitled “Where the Willows Bend.” In “Christmas Once Again”, he calls upon that same wistfulness, changing the lyrics of “Where the Willows Bend,” and inviting listeners back to that familiar special place in Canora- this time to stay for the holidays.

“When writing the lyrics to ‘Christmas Once Again,’” he says, “I recollected my own December memories with those I love and some who are now gone, family gatherings, and holiday memories with friends. Looking through old Christmas photos and feeling the joy from the past was a big part of my inspiration.”

The theme of reflecting on memories and love from Christmases past and yearning for those who may no longer be around, prevails in Kalmakoff’s lyrics. Matched with gentle guitar strums and the sounds of faint Christmas bells, he sings “Moments so close, when love would fill my heart/Not long ago, we were never apart/To live that life once more, the gift that joy would bring/I want to believe in Christmas once again.” A chorus soon repeats “We see only in front of us, never looking behind/Take a step back, remember what was/It was an innocent time.” Here Kalmakoff reminds us that traditions, along with our memories of those we love are what keep the Christmas spirit alive, and that our past should be what lights the way for our future.

“Christmas traditions are very meaningful to me, and ones that have been passed on from different generations are important,” Kalmakoff says, hoping his new Christmas song will become a tradition. “It’s all been done with love, and I hope that what I bring to each holiday season, through this song, will be remembered as well.” As a wink to his fans who encouraged the new track, he adds “At least I can now say that I have my very own Christmas song, and I hope followers who enjoy it will put it on repeat for holidays seasons ahead.”

Embrace The Magic Of The Season With Sherri Harding’s Enchanting New Single ‘Doin’ Christmas Right’

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There’s no better way to ring in the 2023 holiday season than with Sherri Harding’s enchanting new single, “Doin’ Christmas Right.”

Produced by Dick Cooper, with Brian Cooper on bass and Rob Holtz on percussion, Harding’s new song is another project created in collaboration with The Cooper Brothers. Instrumentals by the world-class Muscle Shoals Horns inject warmth, energy, and a beloved holiday sound into the single. With all the makings of a holiday classic, “Doin’ Christmas Right” is a melody listeners will no doubt return to year after year.

The holiday has always been dear to the Ottawa singer, who treasures her childhood memories of selling Christmas trees with her siblings—and has always dreamed of producing original Christmas music. With heartwarming lyrics and Harding’s signature soulful vocals, the song captures the magic of those childhood Christmases—the excitement, the joy, the bright lights on every corner—and allows the listener to experience anew the startling beauty of the holidays. Doin’ Christmas Right juxtaposes a giddy, youthful delight with the brilliant shine of being in love.

“This year’s like no other – how happy can one girl be? / Feels just like I’m a kid again – feels like make-believe // This year I’m doing Christmas right,” she sings.

The single comes on the heels of Harding’s debut album, A Million Pieces, which was released earlier this year. Also produced by Dick Cooper, the album featured a powerful lineup of seasoned musicians like David Hood, Kelvin Holly, Lynn Williams, and others. Cooper wrote the album for Harding after her 2016 performance with The Cooper Brothers, where he recognized a stunning new talent deserving of the spotlight. The duo traveled to iconic Muscle Shoals to record, and following the album’s success, continued their collaboration with “Doin’ Christmas Right.”

Harding’s success is well-earned. For years before her debut, she spent time on the road in various bands and venues, traveling as far as Bosnia and the Middle East for Armed Forces shows. But home beckoned, and the rising singer carved out a space for herself in the Rock/Soul space.

Even before the release of A Million Pieces, Harding always wanted to create an original Christmas song. In the true spirit of the season, this dream has come true. “Doin’ Christmas Right” will surely soundtrack magical holiday memories for families and lovers alike for years to come.

Donita Large Returns with the Blues in ‘Too Much of Anything’: Anticipated Single Follows #1 Single on Indigenous Music Countdown

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There’s no such thing as too much of singer/songwriter Donita Large, and thankfully, she is back with her highly anticipated blues single, “Too Much of Anything.” After reaching the #1 spot on the Indigenous Music Countdown with her debut single, “Going To Walk That Line,” fans have been wanting more.

Donita Large brought her bluesy charm when she emerged on the music scene in the summer of 2021. She quickly became a sought-after artist, performing at local festivals and shows, including the Edmonton International Fringe Festival, RavenWood Music Festival, K-Days Indigenous Experience, and a ‘Songs of Reconciliation’ concert at Leduc’s MacLab Centre for Performing Arts. During her early days on the scene, Donita collaborated with lead and bass guitarist Anthony King, which led to the formation of ‘Donita Large & The Small Band,’ alongside bandmates Alan Tymofichuk and Barry Martin.

The idea for “Too Much of Anything” came to life one evening when Donita and Anthony decided to make music during a break from rehearsal. Donita wanted to write a new blues song, and Anthony, who loves the blues, started playing a bluesy 12-bar tune. This inspired Donita to begin writing the lyrics for “Too Much of Anything.”

The song’s message is simple, but the feelings are complicated: it’s about the idea that “too much of anything is bad for you.” It’s like when you have too much of something, and it causes problems. Donita’s song captures the mixed emotions of overdoing something and dealing with the results. That’s why she sings the blues, to connect with those emotions and share them with others.

As the song’s producer, Anthony King sought the best musicians in Edmonton for a live-off-the-floor recording. This effort led to a lineup that included Rooster Davis on the keys, Jamie Cooper on drums, Harry Gregg on bass, and Anthony himself on lead guitar. The recording process was a celebratory experience, resulting in a track that captures the spirit of the blues.

Donita Large will release this new single at Edmonton’s Blues on Whyte – Commercial Hotel as a guest of Secondhand Dreamcar, where Harry, Rooster, and Jamie are all band members, and Anthony will join as a guest guitarist.

Get ready to hit replay and immerse yourself in the emotional storytelling power of the blues with Donita’s ‘Too Much of Anything’ as it debuts on the airwaves now.

Sebastian Maniscalco Announces Massive Tour Dates For 2024

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Sebastian Maniscalco is the undisputed king of physical comedy, hailed by The New York Times as the “hottest comic in America.” He has been performing for over two decades amassing a huge loyal fanbase and as Pollstar has noted, “He’s been a voice in the vanguard of a live comedy revolution.” During his latest tour, Maniscalco conquered New York City by selling out Madison Square Garden, Barclays Center, UBS Arena, and Prudential Center, and with his two shows at Chicago’s United Center, he is currently the highest-grossing comedian in the venue’s three-decade history. With residencies at the Borgata Event Center in Atlantic City, as well as the Wynn, Encore Theatre in Las Vegas, he continues his record breaking arena shows that earned him the top spot on Pollstar’s Top Comedy Tours list. He has also starred in 6 comedy specials for networks such as Netflix, Showtime and Comedy Central.

Maniscalco’s success in comedy extends beyond the stand-up stage. His talents have been brilliantly translated to film, television, and the popular world of podcasting. His new series, “Bookie”, co-produced by Maniscalco and legendary director, writer, and producer Chuck Lorre premieres in November of 2023 on HBO MAX. The show follows a veteran bookie navigating the impending legalization of sports gambling and the evolving culture that bounces him around Los Angeles.

Maniscalco can be seen on the big screen in projects such as the animated feature film The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the Neil Bogart biopic Spinning Gold, and the dramedy Somewhere in Queens with Ray Romano and Laurie Metcalf. In 2023, Maniscalco marked his first role as a leading man when h co-wrote and starred in About My Father, a Lionsgate production loosely based on his Italian family experience, alongside Robert De Niro. Maniscalco also appeared in Martin Scorses’s crime drama, The Irishman as well as Peter Farrelly’s Oscar-winning Green Book.
Along with TV and standup, Maniscalco currently hosts two podcasts, Daddy vs. Doctor and The Pete and Sebastan Show. Both shows are hosted by Maniscalco alongside his hilarious and informative co-hosts, Dr. Scott Cohen, and Pete Correale. Daddy vs. Doctor and The Pete and Sebastian Show are available on all podcast platforms.
Maniscalco is also an author of the national best-selling memoir, “Stay Hungry,” an inspiring, honest, and proarious collection of essays that traces his career from the trials and tribulations — to reaching the pinnacles of comedy success. Maniscalco’s success is a testament to his persverance and hustle – with his tireless work ethic and undeniable talent, it’s safe to say that Maniscalco will continue to be a fixture in comedy and entertainment for years to come.

IT AIN’T RIGHT 2024 TOUR DATES:
Thu Jul 11 – Norfolk, VA – Norfolk Scope Arena
Fri Jul 12 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena
Sat Jul 13 – Asheville, NC – ExploreAsheville.com Arena
Thu Jul 18 – Jacksonville, FL – VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena
Fri Jul 19 – Savannah, GA – Enmarket Arena
Sat Jul 20 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena
Sun Jul 21 – Nashville, TN – Bridgestone Arena
Thu Aug 08 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center
Fri Aug 09 – Austin, TX – Moody Center
Sat Aug 10 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center
Sun Aug 11 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center
Thu Aug 15 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center
Fri Aug 16 – San Diego, CA – Viejas Arena
Sun Aug 18 – San Francisco, CA – Chase Center
Thu Sep 12 – Orlando, FL – Amway Center
Fri Sep 13 – North Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum
Sat Sep 14 – Charlotte, NC – PNC Music Pavilion
Wed Sep 18 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Thu Sep 19 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden
Thu Sep 26 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena
Fri Sep 27 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center
Sat Sep 28 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena
Sun Sep 29 – Wilkes-Barre, PA – Mohegan Sun Arena
Thu Oct 03 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena
Fri Oct 04 – Boston, MA – TD Garden
Sun Oct 06 – Hershey, PA – GIANT Center
Thu Oct 17 – Winnipeg, MB – Canada Life Centre
Sat Oct 19 – Edmonton, AB – Rogers Place
Sun Oct 20 – Calgary, AB – Scotiabank Saddledome
Thu Oct 24 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena
Fri Oct 25 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena
Sat Oct 26 – Portland, OR – Moda Center
Wed Nov 06 – Milwaukee, WI – Fiserv Forum
Fri Nov 08 – Chicago, IL – United Center
Sat Nov 09 – Chicago, IL– United Center
Sun Nov 10 – Dayton, OH – Nutter Center
Thu Nov 14 – Youngstown, OH – Covelli Centre
Fri Nov 15 – Rochester, NY – Blue Cross Arena
Sat Nov 16 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center
Sun Nov 17 – Syracuse, NY – Oncenter War Memorial Arena
Thu Nov 21 – Montreal, QC– Bell Centre
Fri Nov 22 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena
Sun Nov 24 – Ottawa, ON – Canadian Tire Centre
Wed Dec 04 – Estero, FL – Hertz Arena
Sat Dec 07 – Tampa, FL – Amalie Arena
Thu Dec 12 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center
Fri Dec 13 – Peoria, IL – Peoria Civic Center Arena
Sat Dec 14 – St. Louis, MO – Enterprise Center
Sun Dec 15 – Des Moines, IA – Wells Fargo Arena

Baby Molly Releases Debut Album “All The People You Could Become Are Dying Every Day” – A Raw, Emotional Journey Through Grief and Self-Discovery

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Emerging musical artist Baby Molly, known for their unique blend of alternative rock and introspective lyrics, is set to release their debut album titled “All The People You Could Become Are Dying Every Day.” This album, written and performed by Baby Molly, promises to be a poignant exploration of life’s unpredictability and the impact of unexpected loss.

Recorded in the vibrant musical hub of Vancouver, BC, “All The People You Could Become Are Dying Every Day” is a nine-track masterpiece that explores the depths of human emotions. The album boasts exceptional mixing by Kyle Black (known for his work with Paramore, State Champs, and more) and mastering by Andrew Downton (credited with Bryan Adams, Dave Grohl, and others).

Inspired by the tragic loss of their father in November 2022, Baby Molly embarked on a creative journey to craft an album that mirrors the rollercoaster of emotions experienced during grief.
They deliberately chose the album format to provide listeners with a cohesive and immersive experience, taking them from moments of mania to introspection and self-exploration, ultimately leading to a newfound perspective on life and mortality.

At the core of this album lies a profound exploration of the infinite paths that life could take and how these possibilities gradually diminish as we journey through life. Baby Molly’s contemplation of multiverses, choices, and the fleeting nature of existence adds a unique and thought-provoking layer to their music.

Speaking about the album, Baby Molly shares, “The people we could become are fading away with each passing day. I’ve pondered the paths not taken and how our choices shape our lives. Losing my dad added another layer to this – the realization that those who raise us are also mortal.”

To celebrate the release, Baby Molly will be hitting the road, taking their music on tour across Canada this fall and venturing into the United Kingdom in spring 2024. Fans can expect an electrifying live experience that goes beyond the music, fostering a sense of togetherness and inclusivity.

Baby Molly’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of music to connect with people on a profound level. Their music combines elements of singer-songwriter and epic emo alternative/indie rock, drawing inspiration from iconic acts like Say Anything, Against Me!, The Killers and The 1975. Baby Molly champions individuality, challenging societal norms and advocating for self-love.

Listen to ‘The Conan and Jordan Show’ on Conan O’Brien Radio

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Jordan Schlansky has gone from Conan O’Brien’s associate producer (with “various duties”) to his co-host – with the launch of The Conan and Jordan Show exclusively on SiriusXM’s Conan O’Brien Radio (ch. 104).

Conan and Jordan will explore their strange relationship and get to know each other even better during their radio series. In the debut episode, the pair delved into Jordan’s favorite band, Rush, and his pronunciation of Socrates, among other topics. Plus, they spoke with several callers live on air.

Check out the full episode anytime on the SiriusXM app or throughout the week on Conan’s channel, Conan O’Brien Radio.

Ice Spice Has Her Own Chia Pet

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Get ready for a memorable Holiday season as Chia Pet proudly announces a partnership with the one-and-only princess of rap, Ice Spice!

With a storied legacy spanning four incredible decades, Chia Pets have maintained their popularity since their debut in the early ’80s. Known for their quirky, do-it-yourself terra cotta planters and the iconic “Ch-Ch-Ch-Chia!” jingle that has become a generational reference, Chia Pets are cultural icons. This unique collaboration between Chia Pet and Ice Spice aims to bridge together nostalgia and mainstream uniting two brands that resonate strongly across diverse age groups. Living Product is the creative engine behind the collaboration. The Chicago lifestyle brand and creative incubation studio uses a playful and disruptive approach to rethinking traditional items. With the Ice Spice Chia Pet, Living Product aims to further extend this realm of thought and creativity.

Ice Spice shared her excitement about the partnership, stating: “Like my lyrics say, ‘I’m breakin’ records and I’m breakin’ news.’ I’m not sure who stole whose look, but I’m into it and am very excited about this fun partnership. Chia Pet is an iconic brand with a dope jingle – so we have that in common.”

Joel Weinshanker, CEO of Ad Populum, owner of the Chia Pet brand says: “Collaborating with Ice Spice and Living Product was a seamless choice. Ice Spice’s distinctive hair style and magnetic charisma, combined with the cool vibe of Living Product, resonate perfectly with younger generations. This echoes the joyous spirit that we hold dear among our cherished Chia fans.”

The launch will receive robust support through an extensive media campaign, featuring high-profile influencer seeding and a commercial airing across various platforms, including YouTube, DirectTV, Hulu, TikTok, Snapchat, and more.

“We’re super excited for the discourse the Ice Spice Chia Pet will create,” says Jake “JB” Brode, founder of Living Product. “As a brand our goal is to break cycles and create new stories through things that already exist. Being able to channel this vision through an artist as dominant as Ice and a brand with as much heritage as Chia Pet has been such a blessing.”

This exciting partnership is poised to make waves across both the online and traditional retail landscapes, with products available on Amazon.comwww.chia.com, icespicemusic.com as well as at select brick-and-mortar locations such as Urban Outfitters, Target, and Spencer’s.

This new ICE SPICE Chia Pet will join the wide collection of Chia Pets including Star Wars, Willie NelsonBob Ross, Chucky, Elvira and many other iconic brands.

The Orb and David Gilmour Launch ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour’ AI Global Remix Project For Fans

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The Orb and David Gilmour, the guitar and voice of Pink Floyd, recently released ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour,’ a visionary re-interpretation of their 2010 ambient classic ‘Metallic Spheres.’ Now in a new use of artificial intelligence led by major recording artists, they are stretching the creative possibilities of the remix project even further by inviting fans around the world to reimagine music from the new album, as well as its cover art, with AI-powered tools.

Starting today, fans can visit metallicspheres.io to create their own personalized AI track and artwork remixed from portions of ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour.’ Visitors to the site will follow a series of prompts indicating the emotion they want the album’s artwork to convey, plus mood and tempo preferences for the available audio. The site, using artificial intelligence capabilities, then generates a new version for playback. Fans can share links to their creations via social media along with their reimagined album covers, and there will be an opportunity to purchase full length remixes as a download in the coming weeks.

In addition, select fan remixes of the ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour’ album cover image, based on the original image by artist Simon Ghahary, may be included in an upcoming music video supporting the album.

Sony Music Entertainment and Legacy Recordings are collaborating with The Orb and David Gilmour to develop the ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour’ AI project in partnership with Vermillio, the first generative AI platform that empowers creators and protects their work using Authenticated AI. With Vermillio’s generative AI platform, creators can style, own and track AI-powered digital creations using text-to-image and image-to-image styling tools, while creating audio remixes and variations benefitting artists.

An all-new use of artificial intelligence technology by globally renowned recording artists, the ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour’ AI Remix is powered by machine learning and a custom generative AI model developed for the project.

Remixes of the album art are generated from users listening to selections from ‘Metallic Spheres In Colour’s musical movements in a live group setting and typing in text that describes how the audio they are hearing makes them feel. The AI model then creates new images in the style of Ghahary’s original based on the emotions it detects in the language inputs.

Next, fans can reimagine the audio by using sliders to indicate the desired mood (chill -> high energy) and tempo (slower -> faster) they want the music to convey. The user’s choices are then combined with the emotional input from the album art they personalized to create a new remix of the movement selection.

In Spring 2009 Ambient pioneers The Orb and producer Youth were asked to remix a version of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young’s “Chicago/Change The World”, recorded by David Gilmour in aid of the British Hacker Gary McKinnon, who was facing extradition to the USADavid Gilmour contributed further guitar parts to the mix and Youth and Orb leader Alex Paterson turned this session into a two ambient suites, the 28 minute ‘Metallic’ and the 20-minute ‘Spheres’ and released under the name ‘Metallic Spheres,’ which was initially released in 2010.

‘Metallic Spheres In Colour’ is the new 2023 remix/reimagining of the original ‘Metallic Spheres’ album. This new version has been masterminded by Alex Paterson, founder of The Orb, alongside writing partner and current member of The Orb Michael Rendall and producer Youth. This new version of the album also features brand new artwork created by Simon Ghahary http://www.ghahary.com.