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Mirvish Announces Relaxed Performance of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ This August

Eric Alper
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Mirvish Announces Relaxed Performance of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’ This August

Producers David and Hannah Mirvish are proud to announce a special Relaxed Performance of the acclaimed Toronto production of Disney’s The Lion King. This will take place on Friday, August 1st 2025 at 1:00 PM at the Princess of Wales Theatre. “Relaxed performances are an essential part of our commitment to making the arts accessible to everyone,” said David and Hannah Mirvish. “We want all patrons to feel welcomed and comfortable, so they can fully enjoy the magic of live theatre.”

What is a Relaxed Performance? 

A Relaxed Performance is for members of the neurodivergent communities and anyone who might benefit from a more flexible atmosphere. These performances are designed for those who may find the conventions of a traditional theatre performance challenging – such as having the audience in darkness, not being able to come and go from your seat and not being allowed to be vocal during the performance. 

In a Relaxed Performance, some technical elements of the show itself are thoughtfully adapted to create a more inclusive and accessible experience, while maintaining the artistic integrity of the show. These include adjustments to sound and lighting, as well as a pre-show chat by one of the cast members.  

Audience members will also have access to pre-show resources, including detailed visual guides and videos to help familiarize themselves with the theatre space and show content. Front-of-house staff and performers have received training to ensure a supportive and understanding environment throughout the event.

Seating Options and Ticket Prices 

For Disney’s The Lion King Relaxed Performance, the Princess of Wales Theatre will offer two types of seating:  

  • Reserved seating, consistent with our regularly scheduled performances.
  • A specially designated “free-to-roam seating zone” in the dress circle. This zone allows patrons more freedom to stand and move, and greater flexibility in exiting the auditorium during the performance, ensuring comfort and accessibility for all attendees. In a continued commitment to fostering inclusivity and accessibility, ticket prices for this Relaxed Performance have been reduced across most price zones. Tickets for the Relaxed Performance of Disney’s The Lion King are available now at mirvish.com or by calling their box office at 1.800.461.3333.  

For more information about the relaxed performance, please visit: https://www.mirvish.com/shows/the-lion-king/relaxed-performance

Eamonn Forde’s ‘1999: The Year The Record Industry Lost Control’ Charts the Collapse of a Music Empire

Eric Alper
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Eamonn Forde’s ‘1999: The Year The Record Industry Lost Control’ Charts the Collapse of a Music Empire

The record industry ruled the ‘90s. CDs were flying off shelves, profits soared, and executives popped champagne to celebrate the good times they thought would never end. But 1999, as Eamonn Forde expertly reveals, was the final party before the storm—the year the old system began to fall apart, one MP3 at a time.

In 1999: The Year The Record Industry Lost Control, Forde pulls back the velvet curtain on a business too big to fail—until it did. From the rise of Napster to the panic over piracy, from boardroom denial to dot-com chaos, this is the real story of how a digital revolution blindsided the gatekeepers. It wasn’t just about missed opportunities—it was about an entire industry culture cracking under the weight of change.

This isn’t nostalgia. It’s an autopsy. Told with insider insight and a journalist’s eye, 1999 explains how a year that started with dominance ended in disruption. If you love music history, digital disruption, or watching Goliath get knocked off balance, this is your next essential read.

John McLaughlin Returns With Electrifying ‘Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022’

Eric Alper
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John McLaughlin Returns With Electrifying ‘Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022’

John McLaughlin makes his return with “Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022”.
This essential live album beautifully captures the seamless synergy between John and his longtime band The 4th Dimension on audio and HD video.

On July 11th, 2022, John returned to the Montreux Jazz Festival with The 4th Dimension and award-winning special guest Jany McPherson on piano and vocals. Delivering a masterclass in fusion to the audience of Stravinski Auditorium. Performing favorites such as ‘New Blues Old Bruise’, ‘El Hombre Que Sabia,’ as well as Pharoah Sanders’ ‘The Creator Has a Master Plan.’

John’s history with the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival spans 52 years as a headlining artist and sometime guest performer. Those who couldn’t be there now have the chance to see what they missed. Those who had the honor of being there can relive this monumental performance, available as a Blu-ray+2CD Digipak, 2 LP Gatefold and digital download on August 8th, 2025 worldwide via earMUSIC.

“I’ve said it many times before – The MJF is the greatest Festival in the world. Having played there since 1971, I’m in a good position to make that statement. The night of this particular recording was no exception and we musicians rose to the occasion. This performance is outstanding for all of us. There was joy, virtuosity, and a fantastic collective experience…“-John McLaughlin

“Abbaji” by John McLaughlin is a deeply emotional and nostalgic piece, dedicated to the tabla maestro Alla Rakha, also known as “Abbaji.” The song is a heartfelt tribute, reflecting McLaughlin’s profound respect and admiration for Alla Rakha’s contributions to music and his personal influence on McLaughlin’s musical journey.

Album:
Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2022
Album Release: July 25th, 2025
Available as
Blu-ray+CD Digipak
2 LP (Black) Gatefold
Digital Download

Tracklisting (All Formats):

Side A:
1. Introduction (Blu-ray only)
2. Kiki
3. Lock Down Blues
4. The Creator Has a Master Plan

Side B:
5. Hijacked
6. Gaza City
7. Mr. DC
8. Abbaji

Side C:
9. New Blues Old Bruise
10. Here Come the Jiis
11. The Light at the Edge of the World

Side D:
12. Echoes From Then
13. El Hombre Que Sabia
14. Outro (Blu-ray only)
* Blu-ray/download video only

Remembering The Cosmic Violinist Simon House Who Made Music Boundless

Eric Alper
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Remembering The Cosmic Violinist Simon House Who Made Music Boundless

Simon House always channeled something cosmic with his playing. From psychedelic violin solos to rich, textural synth layers, he left his mark on some of the most adventurous rock ever made. Whether backing up Bowie or bending time with Hawkwind, Simon made sound feel like stardust. His passing on May 25, 2025, at the age of 76, leaves a void in the universe — but his music remains as timeless as ever.

Here are ten unforgettable collaborations that show the range and brilliance of Simon House:

1. Hawkwind – ‘Warrior on the Edge of Time’ (1975)
Simon’s violin became the soul of Hawkwind’s space-rock explorations. On this album, he brought elegance and chaos in equal measure, pushing the band into new sonic galaxies alongside Lemmy and Nik Turner.

2. David Bowie – ‘Stage’ (1978) & ‘Lodger’ (1979)
Joining Bowie’s Isolar II tour and recording Stage live, House added psychedelic swirl and moody keys to Bowie’s late-’70s experimentation. On Lodger, his work on “Boys Keep Swinging” made art-rock unforgettable.

3. High Tide – ‘Sea Shanties’ (1969)
This early psych-prog project was where Simon swapped bass for violin and began bending genres. His electrified violin lines were both feral and classical, setting the tone for the rest of his career.

4. Michael Moorcock & The Deep Fix – ‘New Worlds Fair’ (1975)
Bridging music and literature, Simon joined this sci-fi rock project by famed author Moorcock. His contributions brought a haunting, cinematic depth to a record steeped in imagination.

5. Thomas Dolby – “She Blinded Me With Science” (1982)
Even in a new wave synthpop hit, House found a way to leave his mark. His background textures elevated Dolby’s quirky style with classically-trained finesse.

6. Robert Calvert – ‘Lucky Leif and the Longships’ (1975)
In this Viking-themed concept album, House provided the dramatic sweep. His playing gave mythological flair to Calvert’s eccentric storytelling, fusing theatre and rock.

7. Japan – ‘Tin Drum’ (1981)
Simon’s work with David Sylvian’s band Japan brought warmth and mystery to their minimalist aesthetic. His textures helped define the band’s sophisticated, Far Eastern-influenced sound.

8. Mike Oldfield – “Crises” (1983, deluxe edition)
House added his signature to Oldfield’s sprawling, layered sonic universe. Their styles meshed perfectly — both keen on mixing the experimental with the melodic.

9. Nik Turner – ‘Space Gypsy’ (2013)
Reuniting with a fellow Hawkwind alumnus, House added lush keys and cosmic ambience to Turner’s later solo work. Even in his later years, Simon never lost his taste for the interstellar.

10. Judy Dyble – ‘Enchanted Garden’ (2004)
With the former Fairport Convention singer, Simon traded space rock for pastoral beauty. His gentle, expressive violin wove seamlessly into folk textures, showing his depth as a collaborator.

Lowell Summer Music Series Set To Kick Off The 35th Season

Eric Alper
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Lowell Summer Music Series Set To Kick Off The 35th Season

The Lowell Summer Music Series is set to return to the heart of The Mill City for its 35th season, bringing 12 nationally touring acts to the stage all summer long. This year’s lineup features an eclectic mix of artists, including Los Lobos, Grace Potter, Galactic, KALEO, Josh Ritter, and more. From June 20 through mid-September, concerts will be held at the scenic, tree-lined Boarding House Park in downtown Lowell. Attendees can enjoy top-tier performances in an easygoing and intimate venue, relaxing on blankets and beach chairs in a beautiful outdoor setting. Tickets for all shows are available now at LowellSummerMusic.org.

2025 Season Lineup:

“This year’s lineup brings a little something for everyone—from rock legends and rootsy storytellers to high-energy funk and family-friendly fun,” said James Macdonald, Series Director. “Our goal is simple: to deliver memorable shows in a relaxed and welcoming setting. We want to help people experience this remarkable city and all it has to offer.”

The series will once again offer Free Fun For Kids, a long-running program that brings family-friendly performances and activities to young audiences on Wednesday and Thursday mornings in July and August. Each event features live entertainment—like music, dance, magic, and animal shows—along with free lunches provided by Lowell Public Schools, healthy snacks, free books from Project LEARN, creative activities and free trolley rides provided by the National Park Service. This program is completely free and serves thousands of children and families each summer.

This year also marks the 44th annual Banjo and Fiddle contest. Running from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM on Saturday, September 6, the event is free for both contestants and spectators who can experience workshops, organized jam sessions and of course banjo and fiddle contests. Players can sign up now at LowellSummerMusic.org.

The Lowell Summer Music Series is produced by the Lowell Festival Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the series operates without taxpayer funding and is sustained by ticket sales, sponsorships, grants, and community support.

For tickets and more information, visit LowellSummerMusic.org. Boarding House Park is located at 40 French St, Lowell, MA 01852.

 

The Cast Of Buena Vista Social Club Brings Havana Heat To NPR’s Tiny Desk

Eric Alper
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The Cast Of Buena Vista Social Club Brings Havana Heat To NPR’s Tiny Desk

Before it was a Tony-nominated Broadway sensation, Buena Vista Social Club was a love letter to Cuban music’s golden age. Now, it’s making magic all over again—this time behind NPR’s Tiny Desk. With powerful harmonies, dazzling solos, and a deep reverence for rhythm, the cast scales it down without ever turning down the soul. From “El Cuarto de Tula” to “Candela,” this concert is a tribute, a time machine, and a total joy.

19 Collaborations That Made Rick Derringer a Studio Legend

Eric Alper
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19 Collaborations That Made Rick Derringer a Studio Legend

Rick Derringer never just played guitar—he infiltrated nearly every genre you can think of. While the spotlight often stayed on his solo work or his time with The McCoys and Johnny Winter, his fingerprints are all over classic tracks from icons across rock, pop, jazz, and beyond. Want proof? Here are 19 collaborations that show how Derringer helped shape the sound of decades.

Barbra Streisand – Played guitar on “Emotion” from Emotion (1984)
Bette Midler – Played pedal steel guitar on “Let Me Just Follow Behind” from Songs for the New Depression (1976)
Bonnie Tyler – Played guitar on tracks from Faster Than the Speed of Night (1983)
Cyndi Lauper – Played guitar on “Calm Inside the Storm” and “The Faraway Nearby” from True Colors (1986), and on tracks from A Night to Remember (1989)
Dan Hartman – Played rhythm guitar and a guitar solo on “Thank You for the Good Times” from Images (1976)
Donald Fagen – Played guitar on tracks from The Nightfly (1982)
Eddie Schwartz – Played guitar on Schwartz (1980) and solo guitar on tracks from Public Life (1984)
Edgar Winter – Played rhythm guitar on “New Millennium” and “On the Tip of My Tongue,” and guitar on “White Man’s Blues” from Winter Blues (2009); played guitar on “Love Is An Art” with Ronnie Montrose on 10×10 (2017)
Eye to Eye – Played guitar on tracks from Eye to Eye (1982)
Grayson Hugh – Played electric guitar on “Romantic Heart,” “Tears of Love,” and “Empty as the Wind” from Blind to Reason (1988)
Joe Bonamassa – Provided vocals and a guitar solo on “Nuthin’ I Wouldn’t Do (For a Woman Like You)” from A New Day Yesterday (2000)
Jon Anderson – Played guitar on tracks from 1000 Hands: Chapter One (2019)
Johnny Winter – Played guitar on “Cheap Tequila” and “Still Alive and Well,” slide guitar on “Silver Train,” and pedal steel on “Ain’t Nothing to Me” from Still Alive and Well (1973)
Kiss – Played a guitar solo on “Exciter” from Lick It Up (1983)
Neil Sedaka – Played guitar on “Cathy’s Clown” from Come See About Me (1984)
Richie Havens – Played guitar on tracks from Alarm Clock (1970) and Connections (1980)
Rosie Vela – Played guitar on tracks from Zazu (1986)
Steely Dan – Played slide guitar on “Show Biz Kids” from Countdown to Ecstasy (1973), a solo on “Chain Lightning” from Katy Lied (1975), and guitar on “My Rival” from Gaucho (1980)
Thomas Jefferson Kaye – Played acoustic and electric guitar on Thomas Jefferson Kaye (1973), and acoustic, electric, and slide guitar on First Grade (1974)

5 Surprising Facts About Rick Derringer

Eric Alper
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Rick Derringer, who passed away on May 26, 2025 at the age of 77, was more than just the guy behind “Rock and Roll, Hoochie Koo.” He was a guitarist’s guitarist, a prolific collaborator, and a musical chameleon who left fingerprints on rock, pop, jazz, metal, wrestling, and even “Weird Al” Yankovic’s greatest hits. While many knew him from his days with The McCoys or his work with Edgar and Johnny Winter, here are 5 lesser-known stories that show just how deep Derringer’s legacy runs.

He Played Guitar on Steely Dan’s Most Intricate Tracks
Derringer’s guitar work helped shape some of Steely Dan’s most memorable moments. He played slide guitar on “Show Biz Kids” and contributed a solo to “Chain Lightning” on Katy Lied. His style blended seamlessly with the group’s layered, jazz-influenced sound. He later worked with Donald Fagen on The Nightfly, adding his touch to the elegant production.

He Helped Launch “Weird Al” Yankovic’s Career
Derringer produced “Weird Al” Yankovic’s first six albums between 1983 and 1989. These included fan-favorite parodies like “Eat It” and “Fat,” both of which earned Grammy recognition. Derringer’s production helped give the songs punch and polish. Yankovic has often credited Derringer as a major part of his early success.

He Wrote Hulk Hogan’s Theme Song, “Real American”
In the 1980s, Derringer stepped into the world of pro wrestling. He co-wrote and recorded “Real American,” which became Hulk Hogan’s entrance music. The song became an anthem for fans across generations. Decades later, it still plays during patriotic tributes and nostalgic wrestling montages.

He Played the Solo on One of Air Supply’s Biggest Hits
In 1983, Derringer recorded the soaring guitar solo for “Making Love Out of Nothing at All,” written by Jim Steinman and performed by Air Supply. The song became a massive hit, and Derringer later said it was his favorite solo he ever recorded. His emotional phrasing helped elevate the ballad into something unforgettable.

He Kept Creating Music with Family and Friends
Later in life, Derringer recorded several Christian and jazz albums with his wife Jenda and daughter Mallory. Together, they released Aiming 4 Heaven, Winter Wonderland, and We Live, blending faith, harmony, and a shared love of music. He also continued to collaborate with longtime friends like Edgar Winter and Todd Rundgren, showing that connection stayed at the heart of his work.

Rick Derringer lived a life filled with music, curiosity, and community. From stadium stages to studio sessions, his guitar carried stories wherever it went. He leaves behind a legacy filled with sound, soul, and sincere joy.

AVKRVST Share New Single “The Trauma” from Upcoming Album ‘Waving at the Sky’ Out Soon

Eric Alper
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AVKRVST Share New Single “The Trauma” from Upcoming Album ‘Waving at the Sky’ Out Soon

After the announcement and pre-order start of their sophomore album “Waving at the Sky” and the release of their first single “The Malevolent” featuring Ross Jennings from Haken, Norwegian prog rockers AVKRVST reveal their second offering – “The Trauma”.

Simon Bergseth, vocalist, shares “‘The Trauma’ is the heart of the story— the origin of everything. A harrowing act triggered a wound that never should have been inflicted. This is where it all begins.“

The single comes with a brand-new music video in established AVKRVST aesthetics – a continuation of the story of the lonely, bleak soul in the cabin. Watch the video here:

“The Approbation” was praised by critics for its ambitious, immersive storytelling and its musical complexity. It was regarded as one of the best genre debuts in years, and it showcased AVKRVST as a top-tier newcomer in progressive music. Now, “Waving at the Sky” takes everything that was compelling about “The Approbation” and pushes it further towards progressive perfection. A dark and devastating concept record about real life events, it is a spiritual successor to its predecessor, and a huge leap forward on every conceivable level.

Story-wise, “Waving at the Sky” is the prequel to “The Approbation”. The 7 news tracks are inspired by a gruesome family tragedy and the bleak soul from the debut, showcased as the lonely man in the cabin in previous music videos, is one of the characters in the new album.

Tracklist “Waving at the Sky”:
1. Preceding (03:14)
2. The Trauma (05:17)
3. Families are Forever (07:49)
4. Conflating Memories (06:59)
5. The Malevolent (feat. Ross Jennings) (03:25)
6. Ghosts of Yesteryear (06:17)
7. Waving at the Sky (12:19)

 

Katatonia Unveil “Temporal” from New Album ‘Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State’ Out June 6

Eric Alper
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Katatonia Unveil “Temporal” from New Album ‘Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State’ Out June 6

Swedish masters of melancholic metal, KATATONIA, have unveiled the second new single from their upcoming album, Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State, out June 6, 2025 via Napalm Records! ”Temporal” balances fragility and strength – its intense verses culminating in a soaring, emotionally charged chorus. The track arrives with a beautiful lyric video.

Even after more than 30 years, KATATONIA continues to redefine the emotional spectrum of the genre, effortlessly shifting between haunting vulnerability and commanding artistry. KATATONIA’s music is pure and heartfelt from the northern wilderness; cast in mournful dirges for a world that needs a renaissance. Secure your copy of Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State now and check out the lyric video for ”Temporal” below.

Jonas Renkse comments, ”Temporal, when the enchantment is gone. When riffing is on, the combination offers no solace other than the pleasure of the vicious circle & the colours of the night. Enjoy.”

On Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State, crystal-clear production highlights the interplay between silence and intensity, while the contrast of heavy riffs, delicate guitar harmonies, ethereal synthesizers, and atmospheric nuances create captivating tension. Tracks like “Thrice” and “Warden” pulse with dynamic energy, a near-ceremonial piece, “Wind of No Change”, merges subtle electronic textures with KATATONIA’s enigmatic soundscapes, while “Temporal” balances fragility and strength – its intense verses culminating in a soaring, emotionally charged chorus. The breathtaking “Efter Solen” (Engl. After the Sun), featuring Swedish lyrics, evokes echoes of Jonas Eika’s 2018 short story collection, with minimalistic yet striking instrumentation.

Even after more than 30 years, KATATONIA continues to redefine the emotional spectrum of their genre, effortlessly shifting between haunting vulnerability and commanding artistry. With sonic landscapes that evoke dystopia, inner demons, purity, and beauty alike, Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State stands as a testament to their enduring brilliance. The album was produced by Jonas Renkse, recorded by Lawrence Mackrory at NBS Audio and The City of Glass, mixed by Adam Noble, and mastered by Robin Schmidt at 24-96 Mastering.

Nightmares as Extensions of the Waking State tracklist:
1. Thrice
2. The Liquid Eye
3. Wind of no Change
4. Lilac
5. Temporal
6. Departure Trails
7. Warden
8. The Light Which I Bleed
9. Efter Solen
10. In the Event of

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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