Here you will find all the latest news pertaining to any of our artists, labels and or new signings and deals that we consolidate as we continue to establish our new profile across the industry. You will be able to click through to Press Releases, PDF Overviews and special web links with a click of the mouse to take you to exactly what piece of news, event or general info you are looking for. Enjoy!
Astral Records & Music calls It a day and all new artist news will be directly available from the new DEAD Famous Website
Well guys we have reached the end of a milestone and with the close of the 2007 music year in a few short weeks I am very pleased that this will be the last posting of any news for Astral Records & Music and its worldwide artist roster. The fact is that the new brand, label and artist portal at DEAD Famous International has kicked off in such a big way that we feel that Astral Records has had its day and so we bid a fond farewell to the label as it stands in the market today. The great news here is that in its (6) year history the numerous incarnations of the labels websites have clocked up a massive 12M hits from users all over the world. Since the latest Astral Website was launched in March 2006 the site had clocked up a massive 6.4 million web hits and thats certainly saying something. The website will still remain online and may even undergo a bit of a face lift in the future if the new directors feel it's warranted but until that time let's just leave it at that and move on with all new news for the label being posted on the new DEAD Famous Website and its Google recognised RSS news feed.
So from now on the only links you will need to check out for all the latest artists news will be:
Astral Records Begins legal proceedings against Blue Pie Productions
A recent decision has been made and all our artists notified that we are now serving notice and beginning litigation against our once digital distributor, Blue Pie Productions (Sydney) for breach of contract and the sale of illegal downloads. It is the intention of the label to seek the return of all our artist content under these proceedings and to have a full and final accounting statement and royalty payments made for any and alll sales to date under the now nullified non exclusive Agreement with the company. We are hoping for a swift resolution here and in lieu of this unfortunate development which clearly besmirched the good name of Astral Records & Music we are pleased to announce that a new deal for digital distribution of our worldwide catalogue has been signed by the CEO of MMD in New York, Jerry Capaldi. A deal was agreed where the company would take on total non exclusive digital distribution of some (30) plus titles into their extensive platform in early 2008.
Latest Artist Signings to the Label
It is with great pleasure that we announce our latest signings to the DEAD Famous label. Sex & Violins are a new style of three piece that hail from Washington in the US. With a great sense of the Seattle sound the album "Sex & Violins" is chock full of quality first run singles. Another great signing is energy driven (5) piece. The Vaine from Sydney in Australia. This progressive metalcore band has an incredible hard edged style for a troup of such young kids and their debut album is nearing completion before being released in March 2008 on the label. Another heavy edged quartet is Spiral Trance who hail from Milwaukee in Wisconsin. Great melodic tunes with heavy well balanced production are a great indication of a classic rock n roll album that should set the market well and truly on fire. Also on both the digital and physical release front is Australian hard rockin (4) piece, Snake...who's sophomore album, "Strike" is at manufacturing at the moment and will be released through Koch Distribution in February 2008. We also picked up digital rights to, Doubleverything (New York), JT (Australia), Crack Horse (UK) and Drift Effect (US). So all in all a damn good year for the new label which has come leaps and bounds since its launch in August 2008. The My Space sites for both Astral and DEAD Famous have also gone great guns this year. Tocheck out the individual web pages for the new signings click through on the links below.
2007 was not only a milestone for Astral Records online but also for both label enttities with regard to many quality third party licensing deals done which will totally rock into gear come the first weeks of the new year in 2008. A major Licensing deal for the entire catalogue was done with music giant, APM Music and its Independent partner Indie911 for ingestion into a highly lucrative film, television and advertising platform in the US. In addition a blanket deal wqas done with PUMP Audio based in New York for the low end of the indie roster. Janice Doll, Damnzal, Fyrefly and Kitsch had all their albums picked up for licensing. A new non exclusive digital distribution deal was done with Modern Media Distribution (MMD) in New York and the best part of this deal is that this company owns and spearheads the highly successful, Global Ad Sales Corporation in the US. These guys are the new viral marketing dealers and they invest hard currency into the catalogues they get behind and really believe in. A highly impacting PR and release deal was signed with Autona Media in Cologne, Germany to actively promote the harder edged end of the roster. Artists picked up in the first instance for extensive PR and release campaigns for the GSA include, New Self High, Damnzal, Domenica and Dark Shift. A great video rotation deal was done with local homegrown national network, Asylum TV which will see some (30) plus artist clips put in high rotation over the holiday period and the programs broadcast is repeated (3) times a week affording the label great visibility at a time when it counts the most. A promotional deal was struck with the new look, Rocknation Magazine in the US. A bi-monthly national publication with over 400,000 circulation has agreed to run a series of half page inside front cover ads for the priority releases that we have aligned with our partner, Nightmare Records in the US. We also did a great production deal for the label with Atlantis Studios in Melbourne where the label has been recording some great local artists and their albums which include, Amelia Bloom, Three Letter Word, Tony Cuic and A Destined Belonging. An artist showcase deal was penned with CEO and owner of Alpha Music Group based in New York, Sylvie Harris to present our artists in a quality downtown venue in Soho NY to such major labels as, Universal, Atlantic, Interscope, Capitol, Columbia and Koch Records. This year we showcased artists such as Floor Thirteen (Canada), Hannah Wolff (Chicago) and Dark Shift (Wisconsin) to very receptive A&R audiences and are still looking at various offers for the artists. A blanket deal was done with Music Gorilla for all of Janice Doll's album material to be licensed into the global MTV / VH1 broadcast platform. The results for such positioning should show up through the alignment of the material in the new slate of MTV style reality and music programs slated for 2008. For more on all these NEW deals click through to the web links listed below.
As some of you know, for about the seven days both the DeadFamousArtists.com site and Astral Records & Music sites have been down or sporadically performing at best. Seems our host decided to both update some of their software as well as add a new drive to our account - this before sending out any notifications or forwarnings so that we could backup the site. We had made a ton of changes sitewide since our last backup 7 days prior to this and as a result of their updates we seen catastrophic failure across both of our sites. I personally have not been to bed in the last 36+ hours as I worked diligently around the clock with our host to get the issues resolved. Currently both sites are up and running, and although all issues have been resolved at the DeadFamousArtists.com (I made this highest priority), the Astralrecordsandmusic.com site is still having serious issues. The Astralrecordsandmusic.com site was originally built with our host client html editing software built into our control panel, and when the updates and patches were made, it changed our instant access Domain names which is what caused the sitewide catastrophic failure. The DeadFamous site was built with some of the best and latest site building software in the world (IMHO) and thats why it it was so easy to fix. However, since all the the pages in the Astral site were built using the host accounts online sitebuilder, as a result almost all the images were set with the instant access domains which have now changed as all the prefixed are randomly generated. Our host instists that this cannot be changed now and so they are seeking to get a "global fix" from the software company that actually created the sitebuilding software. I would like to, at this moment, take the time to humbly apologize on behalf of both Mike and I. In the last 24 hours 2e have went from pure rage to extreme embarrasment and then back again. I assure you that there was no way that either of us could have possibily done anything different to avoid this as we had no forwarning of our hosts latest "software update". We are currently looking into other options and may possibly be moving the entire site to a new host in the coming weeks - which of course will mean another 24 hour black out as it takes time for a domain that has been moved from one host to another to propegate out across the WWW. As the issues across the DeadFamousArtists.com site have currently been resolved(knock on wood) I once again welcome you with open arms and sincerely wish for you to enjoy your visit and some of the best music and indie artists in the world. Sincerely, Tony Boswell Strategic Content & Development Director Astral Records / Dead Famous Artists International P.S. If you find any further issues on the site (i.e. - broken links, images not posting, bad feeds) Please contact either Mike or myself IMMEDIATLY with the URL of the page your were on and exactly where and what in the page you think is wrong. Just click the Contact Link anywhere on the site and use our form on the page so we can get the issue resolved ASAP!! Thanks!! Thanks for your pateince..Tony Boswell, Strategis Development & Content Director. Check out the brand new website here:http://www.deadfamousartists.com
Special Christmas Gift to All Our Fans
As a special thnakyou to all our fans and i8ndustry associates around the world we aree pleased to say that if you go to the contact form on 5t6he new website at this link: http://www.deadfamousartists.com/contactus.htm and sign up for our new MAILING LIST then you will be rewarded with a downloadable MP3 based FREE 12 TRACK COMPILATION CD courtesy of all our artists. Featured cuts include, Janice Doll, The Vaine, Damnzal, New Self High, Ripped, Kitsch, Sex & Patriotism and many more.
New DEAD Famous Website launches officially worldwide today...come and check it out!
Well its exciting, official and way cool that after many months of painstaking hard work and sleepless nights we are finally ready to launch the new DEAD Famous website to the world which features all our artists in all their new release glory and with loads of specially branded MP3 players featuring the creme de la creme of new indie music the site is sure to be a big hit with fans and industry alike. Here at DEAD FAMOUS ARTISTS you will be able to plug directly into each individual ARTIST ROLODEX which features full and update bios, picture gallery's, merchandise and direct buy links to the bands latest releases. YOu can downlaod their release One Sheet in PDF form and sign up to the mailing list on the contact page where you will receive a special message and gift from us just for signing up to the labels NEWSLETTER. We wnat you guys to have the most enjoyable and interactive experience while your on the site with us and so we are giving you a FREE (12) track MP3 compilation CD which features one cool song from each one of our bands on the label. So get to the contact page, spend 5 mins and sign up, YOU WON'T BE DISSAPOINTED. To let everyone know exactly whats happening we did a special press release outlining all the cool new features of the site and you can check it out here: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2007/11/prweb566353.htm
Major Licensing partnership deal penned today with APM Music and Indie911 in the US.
A licensing partnership deal was penned today with one of the US most prolific and established music licensing companies working in the market today. Namely APM Music and Indie911. APM and Indie911joined forces a little while ago to take advantage of the growing trend of independent and unsigned artists that are increasingly getting their music licensed into major feature film, Television and Advertising platforms around the world. CEO Justin Goldberg (Indie911 based in LA) recognised quickly that DEAD Famous Records had some of the most marketable music that fit the platform in all genres and was keen to do a deal with the company fror 2008. "Honestly Mike I think this material could be among the strongest in our catalog and I really want the material there" This is a great testament to our growing artist roster that has release positioning and charting status all over the world now. Some of the clients that this deal will service via the APM and Indie911 venture include, Alias, CSI, The Chappelle Show, Oprah Winfrey, Everwood, Joan of Arcadia, Nip Tuck, Six Feet Under, Smallville, Lost, Heroes, Ladder 49, Borat, Blades of Glory, The Simpson’s Movie, Lord Of The Rings, Music & Lyrics, Scrubs, Wild Hogs, Shrek 2, Love Actually, Harry Potter & The Prisoner of Azkaban and heaps more. For more check out the website links below.
Janice Doll Brazilian Album Update & Brazilian Newspaper Feature Article
Brazilian rockers Janice Doll recently emerged from the studio with Producer, Stuart Epps and will be featured in a major news article in a top rated Brazilian newspaper. Recovering Losses Denied to enter the UK by British Immigration, Brazilian band, Janice Doll didn’t think twice and recruited from London a Platinum rated producer to record their second album in Brasilia. The English producer Stuart Epps is in Brasilia to record the second disc of Janice Doll which are predominantly a hard driving rock alternative band. The Brazilian group planned to record in London but they were denied to enter the UK by the British Immigration because the airline lost their instruments and belongings. "We insisted that we needed to record, but our musical instruments were in the luggage that were lost", says Paul Hodel, vocalist of the band. The cargo was found after a delay of eight days. In order to avoid postponing too much of the album recording, the British producer came to Brazil with the exclusive mission of producing the disc right here in one of the countries loval studios. Epps, who came to Brazil for the first time, leaves Brazil today satisfied in the knowledge of tracking a good record for the band on the 22nd of October. Stuart Epps is well known in the music scene. He already produced discs of internationally renowned artists - Led Zeppelin, Bryan Adams, Elton John and Oasis among others. About the Brazilian band's sound, he showed interest and evaluates: "Their style varies from the more heavy rock tracks to ballads and always highlighted with a strong chorus." This feature alone has attracted his curiosity and with experience enough to detect a hit, even if its far away, emphasizes: "It’s unusual to see bands moving between styles, and it’s a very positive step in today's copycat market. I like to use my experience with new bands. This kind of music is currently well accepted in the market today." History The Janice Doll band was created in 2003 and has participated in festivals such as Rolla Pedra and Cuca Fresca, and also have been playing many smaller and more intimate shows. The band is formed by Paul Hodel (guitar and vocals), Frank Martins (guitar) and brothers Leo (bass) and Fabio Krieger (drums). They managed to be noticed abroad because of the increasing power and appeal of the Internet. "We created a site on Multiply and hosted our clip on You Tube (video site on the Internet)", says Paul. "In less than one month, the video had received more than 100,000 views." Such a success drew the attention of the Australian based CEO of Astral Records and DEAD Famous Artists, Mike Puskas, who signed the band and became their manager since March 2007. Puskas indicated that UK producer Stuart Epps would be well suited to work with Janice Doll under the new DEAD Famous Record label. "We have already received invitations to play in festivals in the United States and Canada," said the singer. The Janice Doll band presents in their list of influences, the trios Nirvana, Placebo and Muse. The songs are all in English, although the band doesn’t discard the possibility of writing something in Portuguese. The recording sessions happened in the studios of Philippe Seabra (vocalist and guitarist of the Plebe Rude band)in North Lake, Brasília, Brazil. Seabra, who worked during four years with the bassist Leo Krieger with the Colina band, provided his particular space believing in the potential of the musicians. "For me it’s an honor my studio had been chosen because they are fantastic musicians", he praises. "It's great to have the opportunity to watch closely the production of this album." Coming from a time when the federal capital was seen, loud and clear as a source of rock artists, he has now another vision of the scenery: "Currently Brasilia is not anymore the rock capital. The title goes to Goiania. But it doesn’t mean that only the good bands stem from that city" consider, citing groups in other states such as Superguidis (RS), Los Porongas (AC) and Suzana Flag (PA).
Janice Doll pictured from left to right: Leo, Frank,Paul,Fabio and Stuart Eppps (Producer)
Astral Records & DEAD Famous Records jump ship from C4 and sign new deal with Fontana North & Universal Distribution for Canadian Market
Major news today for all our artists and their worldwide fan base. What can I say but we know when we're not wanted and so rather than try to work to an unworkable compromise we would rather cut our losses and jump ship. I'm talking about our Canadian distribution deal with C4 Records / Koch Canada Distribution. The skinny is simply this, the company directors sold 75% of the label to a radio syndicated network in Canada and the new owners have very different ideas as to what they have in store for the label in 2008. Well no use in crying over spilt milk we say and so we have been approached and agreed to sign a deal with Fontana North / Universal Distribution for that market only. This will mean that all our releases that are earmarked for US release will have a percentage of their stock go to the Fontana Warehouse for shipping to the big retail chains in the Canadian market. WE are excited to say the least that we mnanaged to pick up such a cool deal on the rebound of dropping our other label and distributor. For all our Canadian fans you can expect to see local releases of Janice Doll, Damnzal, Fyrefly, Sex & Patriotism, Snake and The Vaine among others hit stores in February 2008. For more check out the website: http://www.fontananorth.com/
DEAD Famous Records signs a deal with National Magazine, Rocknation to run US Marketing Campaigns
A deal was signed today with the CEO of Rocknation magazine based in Minnesota and DEAD Famous Records to do feature advertising and editorial for all our artist releases for the rest of 2007 and throughout the new 2008 music year.With the street syle magazine being delivered to all hard rock and metal stores nationwide and having found such a consistent rate of success. The Magazine has been approached by Time/Warner cable in the US to run its own Television format on the network. This will give all our artists a massive rate of national exposure and really push the brand into a steadily igniting new market place. To kick this association off watch out for half page ads with a redeemable coupon in the November issue which features both Janice Doll and Damnzal's album releases and offers a $2.00 discount to all fans of the band who then redeem their coupon at our new online store when purchasing the full CD. Stay tuned for a simple nuts and bolts campaign for both Fyrefly (UK) and Snake (Aust) releases in December. To check out more visit the links below. http://www.rocknation.us
Sydney rockers, THE VAINE Sign with DEAD Famous Records for the US and Canadian Market
We are pleased to announce after a long and lengthy negotiation the worldwide signing of Sydney hardcore band, The Vaine. The funny thing here is that for all those of you who know me well enough also know that I don't believe that the local talent pool is anything more than a pathetic mimic of whats already out there. IN short we don't really have an original bone in our body and thats truly sad. Nut soemthing about this five piece from Sydney struck me as being different. Best of all they really do define the genre very well and are a worthy candidate along with the labels support to take their unique brand of hard rockin emo music to a worldwide audience. The band are currently in the studio recording an additional (7) new tunes which will be added to the existing tracks of the new EP and released as a full length album on the DEAD Famous label and will be released in the US on Nightmare/Koch International and Fontanna Universal in Canada in late February 2008. The digital version of the initial EP, "Regrets & Hollow Threats" will be avaialble digitally on the retail platform worldwide by the end of December ad just in time for the Christmas holiday period. While the album should be available digitally by the 28th of January. There is a label showcase and tour planned for February / March 2008.
Some Background
The Vaine are an energetic undefinable five-piece from Sydney's west. Featuring a line up consisting of three females (Shelley, Steph and Clik) and two guys (Bee and Jack) since early 2006 they have made their mark on the local music scene playing shows at venues like The Gaelic, The Embassy Hotel and The Manning Bar. Also opening the main stage at Homebake 2006. With their first EP (Regrets and Hollow Threats) in circulation for a year now, and the second in post-production The Vaine continue to bring their energy and explosive music for all their global fans. As young as The Vaine are they are nothing short of exceptionally musically talented. With the drive of these intelligent and talented teens we know they will go far. The band are made up of the following well versed musicians and writers. For more check out the bands My Space here: http://www.myspace.com/thevaine
Shelley Partridge - Vocals
Bilal (Bee) Fouani - Lead Guitar
Clik Rogan - Vocals / Guitar
Steph Rogan - Bass
Jack Hammer - Drums
The band have landed the coveted support slots on the NSW leg of the Boomtown Showdown in November 2007. Details below.
DEAD Famous launches new online store in the UK with 7 Digital and their own Indie Store for a selection of its artists
With our brand new online sales portal and new website for DEAD Famous Records about to be launched worldwide just in time for Halloween (October 31st) we have decided to launch a mini sales site on the 7 Digital platform which includes the highly successful UK based site, IndieStore.com Check out the site at the link below. http://www.indiestore.com/deadfamous
Amelia Bloom emerges from the studio with new radio single for her soon to be released Maxi Single
MPM managed artist, Amelia Bloom (13yo) emerges from Atlantis Studio with a brand new song for her Maxi single to be released in early 2008. The song, "No Time Left" was written by Mike Puskas and Amelia and is a very radio friendly tune filled with some big chorus hooks and a nice dynamic pop production. The song was produced by Mike Puskas and enginneered and mixed by Matt Lefroy. Special thanks go to our session pleyers, Ian Kittman (Tim Rodgers Band) on drums, Melissa Pollard on BV's and Louise Spindler on Bass (courtesy of Three Letter Word) The song is a fun parody between kids of today and the parental relationship that has changed due to our busy lifestyles. The tune has been submitted to a number of our Film & TV licensing partners for review and will join the other tunes on the 3 Track Maxi Single being, Absolutely Perfect and Dreaming in Black & White. For more visit the website links below. Amelia has recently been seen performing her special track show at some local venues of late including Hardimans Hotel in Kensington where she got a standing ovation for her brief (4) track live performance. Amelia will be travelling along with her manager to Canada in February 2008 where her debut album, "Rollercoaster" is being produced by Juno award winning producer, Brandon Friesen who owns both 441 Studios and Arbor Records in Winnipeg in Canada. Once the album has been completed Amelia will travel to NY for a label showcase to be staged by Alpha Music Group and DEAD Famous Artists. From there she travels to Los Angeles to meet with executives from the Disney Group and Hollywood Records where she will also showcase as well as meet a number of managements licensing partners, agents aznd label executives. A big first quarter planned for this incredibly talented and dynamic young artist with a fresh look and a totally new and youthful vibe. Her new all in one website has just been launched which features all her tunes in a branded player, video clips, RSS news feeds, live dates, extensive photo gallery and of course a special personalised video blog where she is now able to chat openly with all of her fans from around the world. Check it out here: http://www.deadfamousartists.com/ameliabloom.htm
Janice Doll wins prestigious Premiominiero Brazilian Music Award as best new Rock artist for 2007 in Sth America
We are very pleased indeed to announce that on the 23rd of October 2007 Janice Doll will perform live with major artists, Sepultura and others on the Premiominiero Music Awards to be held in San Paulo in Brazil to a massive television audience of over 15M people. This prestyigious ward is like winning a Grammy for the Sth American market. The band were recently nominated and have now WON in the hard rock / Alternative category for their fresh, hard hitting sound and their major international achievements in 2007 led by manager and label owner, Michael Puskas of DEAD Famous Artists. The boys will be doing two national magazine layouts and interviews along with some live TV appearances and national radio interviews to coincide with the event that is launched right across the Sth American continent. To cap things off for the band who released their debut album, "Silent Seasons" in the US this week with Koch this award further establishes the band as a force to be reckoned with and paves the way for a great future on the road suppoorting the release across the world next year. They are currently in the studio working on their new album entitled, "Leave The Future Behind" which is being produced by UK Platinum award winner, Stuart Epps (Led Zeppelin, Elton John, Oasis) etc. Both Stuart and Paul Hodel (vocalist of JD) will be travelling back to Prism Studios in Stoke in the UK to record vocals and mix the album for a first quarter release in 2008. Already a number of major player labels have expressed their interest to management to sign and or license the new album along with the back catalogue which is very exciting indeed. For more check out the award website at the link below. http://www.premiomineiro.com/default2007.asp
Damnzal release new CD in the US and also do local deal with HEARTLAND RECORDS in Melb for local release of the album. BUY IY NOW!
We are very pleased to announce that in addition to Damnzals CD being now avaialble in the US at all good retail outlets like Best Buy, Walmart, Blockbuster etc we have arranged a special deal with our friends at Hearland Records in Melbourne to make available the limited stock we have to the general public along with the last run of final Band T Shirts we have before we step up to the new design. In addition we have decided to release a two track Maxi single for the digi market only and this features the crackin tunes, Sex Slave and Cherry Bomb. For more check out all the details below where you can NOW purchase these fine products from the DEAD Famous label. The limited edition Damnzal US Pressing costs: $15.00. the limited edition Maxi single costs: $6.00 and the final run of Damnzal T Shirts (Boys Black) and Baby Dolls T's (Girls white) $25.00.
Mike Puskas voted in a s board member of AMCOS and made an associate publishing member of APRA
Well it was a big day for me on the personal front with a couple of great additions to my professional status. I was voted in as full board memeber of AMCOS (Australian Mechanical Copyright Owners Society) and made an associate publisher member of APRA (Australasian Performing Rights Association) This is the highest accolade a joint record label and publisher can get in my country of good old OZ. What it means is that I will now have a say as a publisher in new policy decisions proposed and passed by the board of both organisations as to the future of the song writers and publishers in the Australian Industry...and that my friends is a good thing. In short, I'm stoked and highly flattered with these awards. Check out the websites for more. http://www.apra.com.au and http://www.amcos.com.au
Damnzal play a big show for Big City Promotions at the Espy Hotel on Sunday 7th October and release new album across the US
Damnzal play the Espy Hotel Public Bar this Sunday 7th October at 10.40pm along with special guests, The Humanz, Riversnake & Floating Roach. Entry is $5.00 and presented by Big City Promotions. Should be a hoot. The new album is finally mastered and mnaufactured and should appear on I Tunes and all good digital retailers through our CD Baby deal in the next few weeks. The physical release of the album to retail happens on October 10th and will be available at all Best Buy, Wallmart, Tower, Blockbuster, Sam Goodie and other retail chains across the US. You will also be able to buy the new CD with a bonus DVD of t5he single, Cherry Bomb through our new online sales portal and retail store at our DEAD Famous Artists website coming soon. For more check out the links below.
Mike Puskas produces debut album for Melbourne based 3 piece, "Three Letter Word" at Atlantis Studios in Melbourne
I have just spent the last 10 days tracking a great new pop style album for Melbourne based three piece, Three Letter Word in Atlantis Studios in Melbourne. The album, yet untitled is full of great radio pop with a UK style pop/rock feel and a hard edge structure and some beautifully layered vocals and harmony's provided by the effervescent twosome, Mel Pollard and Louise Spindler. All Drums and percussion was provided by band drummer, "Duck" and the project was engineered by Matt Lefroy and produced by Mike Puskas. The album is slated to be mixed to perfection in December 07 and masterd by Drew Lavyne at All Digital in NY (Sting, Foo Fighters, Chilli Peppers, Dave Mathews) etc. The album will be released on the DEAD Famous label worldwide and will be distributed by Koch International in the US. You will be a ble to shortly buy the album through our deal with I Tunes and CD Baby among other quality digital retailers across the globe. Below are a few pics of the band and myself in the studio laying it all down for the masses.
Janice Doll release new album on I Tunes for the world today.
We are very pleased to announce indeed that the new Janice Doll album, "Silent Seasons" is now avaialble on I Tunes worldwide. Coupled with the pending physical release of the album through Nightmare / Koch in the US on October 10th and then again through C4/Koch Canada on November 12th our first phase of the release campaign for the marketing of this album is almost complete. You can now check out and buy the album today at this link on I Tunes direct.
Stay In The Box UK Compilation featuring Janice Doll gets rave review in the UK Press & Media
“STAY IN THE BOX" showcases a wide range of new Independent artists and bands from all over the world. From rock and pop to acoustic, electro, punk, hard rock, country and alternative this compilation illustrates the huge choice of 100% Independent artists out there doing their own thing Independently and looking for airplay and coverage. Listen out for bands from the U.K, U.S.A, Mexico and all over Europe. Check out all the artists here: http://www.matchboxrecordings.co.uk/artists/stayinthebox.htm
The stunning and powerful Janice Doll rock the house down above
Janice Doll - London Please (Music Review)
Don’t be fooled by the name, Janice Doll are four Brazilian lads, who have come together to create some riotous noise. A wall of guitars meet soaring anthemic vocals in London Please to bring the ear a pretty damn fine song. The key lies in the cunning breakdowns following the rousing choruses. Nice work indeed. They are also not afraid to head off into some Rage Against The Machine territory with some great rapping over the middle eight. Very interesting… Watch out for their visit to the UK soon.
Hannah Wolff moves up to the Number 9 spot on the IAC Big 50 Chart after only 2 weeks in
Very happy to report that DEAD Famous Artist, Hannah Wolff has moved into thne number (9) spot after entering the KIAC Big 50 chart only two weeks ago. With that sort of chart movment for her stellar song, "Ghost of You" we can only see her making the top spot in a few more short weeks. Don't forget that she is sheduled to perform on the AMG Major label showcase in NY on October 15th so things are really looking up for this highly talented artist from Oklahoma City in the US. For more check out the Big 50 Chart website and her links below: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
Stoneage Warrior Childrens TV Series gathers momentum with a major article published in the Melbourne Times today
We are pleased to announce that the new "Stoneage Warrior" Children's TV Series production gathered momentum today with a great article published in the Melbourne Times today. As the production reached its next wave of shottingt on the production schedule 13yo Amelia Bloom has been approached by the producers to feature in a promotional video featuring her singing the series theme song, "Book of Dreams" along with all the characters and creatures of Darkness in a fun filled music video to promote the series to media and featuring the many sets alraedy designed for the production. The article has been posted below and do check out the pictures of some of the characters. You can check out the video snippets of the production on our You Tube site at: http://www.youtube.com/astralmike999
Check out the You Tube clip for the production below.
Mike Puskas featured musician on StudioTraxx picked up my Premier Guitar Magazine latest issue
Very pleased to discover that yours truly was not only featured on the StudioTraxx musicians portal in New York but that Premier Guitar Magazine ended up picking up the article and featuring it in their latest issues. You can check it out here: http://magazine.premierguitar.com/Magazine/Issue/Daily/News/StudioTraxx_Surp
DEAD Famous Artist, Garrett Ramquist enters Smart Studios with Death Cab For Cutie producer, Beau Stevenson in October
We are very pleased to announce that one of our latest signings to the DEAD Famous Management roster, Garrett Ramquist (20) is heading into Smart Studios in Wisconsin with his new band to record a single, Kaylee with producer, Beau Stevenson who just produced and mixed the latest album and singles for Death Cab For Cutie among other notable US artists. Our viral marketing plan for Garrett to create his online visibility is now in full swing and so once the album is completed we have plans to showcase him live at one of the new 2008 AMG Showcases for major labels. He has just had all of his material licensed to the MTV / VH1 international broadcast platform as well as a non exclusive license to have his material represented by Songs With Vision Services in LA for feature film positioning. For more check out the websites: http://www.garretramquist.com
Snake from Brisbane, Australia signs full digital and physical release deal with DEAD Famous Records for the world
We are pleased to announce the signing of local hard rockers from Brisbane, "Snake" who like their US counterparts, Sex & Patriotism" are redefining the adage that there just can't be too much rock n roll and they do it and deliver it well. The band also doubles as Australias number one tribute band to ACDC or accadacca as they are known. The album will be released digitally into the retail platform by mid NOvember for a Christmas release push and will come out on the DEAD Famous / Nightmare Records label in the US and distributed by Koch International nationally in the US in early February 2008. For more check out the website: http://profile.myspace.com/snakerocks
Freddy King (Milwaulkee) and Rob Mulligan (Orlando) join the DEAD Famous International Team
It is with great pleasure that we are proud to announce the timely recruitment of two seasoned young professionals to our international team. Freddy Nick as he is known to his friends in the US is a young and dynamic player with that go getter attitude and the resume to back it up. Freddy Nick is a musician, actor, film composer out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin and he owns and operates 4513 Productions, a film company known nationwide for its small skit's and dealing with some of the worlds bigger *Underground* heavy metal acts. From an early age he was classically trained as a vocalist and took home many medals and awards from the state. He took to acting on stage in various musicals whilst performing in front of 1000 people for sometimes 5 nights straight, he hit a point in his career to take this as a serious job when he performed two sold out shows in front of 3000 attendee's each night. He has worked with some of the brightest new names around such as Corey Boardman, star of Broadway show "The Alter Boyz" all the way to Brandon Deshayzer, "Prison Break/etc." He has a myspace for any and all to get in touch with him at Rob Mulligan is the lead singer of Florida based metal/hardcore band, "New Self High" and is also the front rapper and writer in a side project called, "God Pawn" He is actively involved in the sponsorship circle and is able to build good strategic partners around the promotion of our live tours in the US. He will be responsible for DEAD Famous Touring sponsorships while Freddy will work the artist management, street team and radio promotional angle for our artists pn the East Coast.
Freddy King (US Artist Management & Street Team Supervisor)
CEO Michael A Puskas will be featured songwriter and composer on Studiotraxx in NY all this week
Commencing on Monday 17th of September and running all next week, Michael A Puskas CEO of Astral Records & Music will be the featured songwriter and composer on the NY based STUDIOTRAXX online musician site which is a website dedicated to work for hire oppoortunities to work with some of the most established names in the business today. I am truly honoured by this opportunity and it just goes to show that if you really belive in what you are doing then there is no reason why you can't take it all the way. For more check out the website here: http://www.StudioTraxx.com
Press Release
New York, NY – June 18, 2007 - StudioTraxx.com, a leading provider of musician-for-hire online collaboration services, is pleased to announce that Astral Records CEO, Mike Puskas, has joined StudioTraxx.com and is offering several songwriting services including melody and lyric writing.
Mike Puskas may be CEO of Astral Records & Music, DEAD Famous Artists, MPM Artist Management and DEAD Famous Artists, however, he is first and foremost a musician!As a songwriter, composer and producer, Mike has had many successful placements for both master and synch deals in US TV Series such as the OC, One Tree Hill, The Shield, Meet The Barkers, Growing Up Creepie, The Consent, Tokyo Shock, Dismissed, Room Raiders, Making the Band, Malcolm in the Middle and the latest Partisan Pictures feature, “Shattered”
StudioTraxx.com is committed to providing access to the best online studio musician talent available anywhere.It’s hard to believe but industry veterans like Mike Puskas are only a click away and ready to work via the web!
StudioTraxx.com is actively building its talent network and is encouraging users to sign up and register. StudioTraxx.com is the flagship service of Digital Media Global, LLC, an online digital media services company that provides online solutions to the music and film industries.
Hannah Wolff Showcases in NY in October for A&R Execs at Capitol, Universal, Atlantic, Wind Up and Koch
We are very pleased to announce that US based contemporary pop artist, Hannah Wolff will be performing at the annual AMG Major Label Showcase in New York on October 15th. The bill will be (5) artists hanpicked by Sylvie Harris President of AMG. Joining Hannah on the bill will be Floor Thirteen from Manitoba in Canada. The event will be presented At Don Hills NY Venue situated at 511 Greenwich St, Cnr Spring Street in New York City. The showcase will be attended by (4) major label A&R Executives including, Eric Speck (VP A&R for Universal Records), Ali Buttars (VP A&R Atlantic Records), Vlad Barr (A&R Capitol Records), David Wilkes (Senior VP A&R for Koch International) There will be (5) artists performing on the bill and the showcase will be run and presented in true VIP style. We feel confident that Hannah and her band will make the right impact to get the attention of the power players in the US industry today. For more check out the websites and info attached to the RSS feed. http://www.alphamusicgroup.com and http://www.donhills.com
Indie Artist Co (IAC) continue to kick serious ass!
Congratulations go out to our US partners at the IAC (Independent Artist Company) for topping the half million web hits per day mark and making them one of the most popular music bases sites and artist community's working in the market today. You can click on the banner above and see all our DEAD Famous Artists featured in their front page slide show which links directly to the individual artists pages on the site. Way to go guys! http://www.iacmusic.com
Crack Horse from the UK sign new album deal with DEAD Famous Records for Canada and the US
We are pleased to announce the signing of UK pop outfit, Crack Horse who have just completed a great new self titled album. The album is a 2 year labour of love and has a really fresh and unique sound which makes it a very commercially viable record in the market place today. The album will be physically released through Arbor/EMI.Terra Firma Distribution in Canada in February 2008 with a US to follow shortly thereafter. Our immediate plans is to get the album ingested into our worldwide digital retail platform by Christmas and the album will be available through all good retailers like I Tunes, E Music, Rhapsody, Audio Lunchbox, MSN, Napster, AOL nOw and Yahoo Music etc. For more check out the websites: http://www.crackhorse.co.uk
THE BACKGROUND
Crack Horse is a sound not like any other right now . You already know this from the name. It’ s edgy , energetic, soulful, heart felt – and that’s just the lead track “THIS SONG
MIGHT SAVE THE PLANET” Dance floor beats , piercing riffs, vibrant brass and melodies you can’t stop humming; this isn't just catchy - it's infectious. A sound of
alarming potential and encouraging accessibility , whilst also maintaining a sense of individuality and purpose – Crack Horse is a juggernaut – unstoppable, undeniable.
LESS HYPE, MORE FACTS
Crack Horse is essentially one person – Alamo (o r A l, as friends like to call him ), a gifted songwriter with passion and presence – a frontman of energy to partner the
music. Al’s songs have featured on BBC and Capital Radio, among others. Already beginning work on a set of songs in preparation for Crack Horse’s second
full length album, Al Amo is a songwriter of prolific output. With past recognitions of Al’s writing including Honourable Mention in the International Song writin g
Competition (ISC) and finalist placement in the Glastonbury Festival Unsigned competition, Crack Horse is the culmination of Alamo’s talent – strong songwriting
with an offbeat dynamism . Playing all instruments and doing all programming himself on Crack Horse’s full length album, Al is also surrounded by a network of strong,
talented musicians ready to take Crack Horse to the live arena, when the time comes. With the ‘Horse taking on a life of its own, Crack Horse is many and few – music to
Sex & Patriotism from Michigan sign and release album with DEAD Famous Records for the Canadian Market
Well its that time of year again when we release all our newly signed albums and the September rush is no exception. WE are pleased to have signed the highly energetic rock band from Lansing in Michigan known to the world as "Sex & Patriotism" The new album, "To Die For" is a collection of that old school rock n roll flavoured tunes with attitude up the ying yang. Just think GnR meets Poison with a strong dose of Motley Crue angst and you have the dynamics rolled into one neat package with this highly entertaining and in demmand band from the US. Stand out cuts on this album include, Tearin it Up, Rock N Roll Dream and One with the DoGs to name a few. Sex & Patriotism in its simplest form is the rebirth of Rock. Formed in Michigan in 2004 Sex & Patriotism have brought back the vitality and high energy show to the Michigan music scene. The music is full of killer vocals and soaring and shredding guitar lines throughout. Taking the best things from our favorite music and making them relevant once again. There is no doubt this band is on the verge of great things to come. The album is scheduled for Canadian release on the DEAD Famous label through C4 Records and Koch distribution in late October and the first three single tracks will be serviced to rock radio prior to the release of the album. The album will come out on the Blastzone label through Nightmare / Koch International in the US in October 2007. For more check out the websites: http://www.sexandpatriotism.com
Hannah Wolff licenses new album to MTV / VH1 Broadcast platform worldwide
We are pleased to announce that DEAD Famous artist, Hannah Wolff has just had her entire album, "One Afternoon" licensed to the worldwide MTV / VH1 broadcast platform and will see her music considered for no less than 12 individual series including, Punkd, Making the Band, Room Raiders, The Real World etc. Riding high on her chart success at number 26 on the KCIA indie charts in the US this artist is seriously destined for big things and we have 20th Century Fox and their music supervisors taking a look at the viability of her material at the moment. More news on that front shortly. In the meantime check out the websites for more: http://www.hannahwolff.com
Fyrefly hit the number one spot yet again on the KCIA Big 50 in the US this week
Well it was inevitable and in all our eyes totally deserving. Fyrefly from the UK have hit the number one spot on the KCIA Big 50 chart with their smash new single, "Jus Lookin" After only three weeks in the chart to make the coveted number one spot in such a short space of time is just amazing for the band and a great precursor to the release of their "Boho Sheep" album in the US on October 10th. The album will be serviced nationally through Koch International to all good retailers including Best Buy, Wallmart, Sam Goodie, Blockbuster and 100s of other retail stores. WE are also very pleased to see our latest signing Hannah Wolff move up from 34 to 26 this week. For more check out the Big 50 Chart website: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
UK Reggae Artist El Fata plays a free show at Brixton Oval ay the Ritzy Cinema tommorow
Reggae and Ragamuffin legend El Fata plays a free show at "Ritzy Cinema" at the Brixton Oval in the UK tommorow Sunday September 2nd at 5.00pm. He has recently returned from a triumphant tour of Sth Africa with his eight piece band, Bajimba and his album "Miracle" is selling well at the moment. For more check out the websites:
The Joys from Canada sign new media licensing deal with DEAD Famous
A deal was launched today with 7 Digital in the UK and some of our more prominent new artists that already have a great deal established to their name. One such band and album that we are pleased to have licensed for our third party film, TV, Video Game and advertising platform is the, The Joys from Canada. Their new album Unfold has received critical acclaim and has had some real chart and sales success in their home town of Canada. We have just licensed the pop track, "Do I' to the new DEAD Famous Vol13 Compilation "Shred the Planet" which will be available on some 150 plus digital retailers by Christmas including I Tunes, E Music, CD Plus, AOL Now and Yahoo Music. Check out the official website for more: http://www.thejoys.ca
Some of The Joys' recent accomplishments include:
* Sold nearly 12,000 CDs independently * "Best Live Act" - Toronto Indie Awards * Licensed music to the feature film "CAKE" starring Heather Graham * Nominated for Entertainer of the Year at the 2004 COCA - Canadian Campus Entertainment Awards * Voted Best Pop/Rock Act at the 2004, 2005, 2006, & 2007 London Music Awards * Received sponsorship from GSUS clothing, Sabian Cymbals, Fabutan Sun Tan Studios, Godin Guitars, Elixir Guitar Strings * Signed to the SL Feldman & Associates Roster Canada * Recorded radio single, 'Do I' with producer Matt Dematteo (Big Wreck, Edwin, The Watchmen) * Played over 200 shows and over 30 Universites/Colleges all across Canada * Played shows with artists such as Robert Plant, Matthew Good, K-OS, Loverboy, Finger Eleven, Honeymoon Suite, The Trews, and more.
The Joys play two kinds of music...rock AND roll. This may sound like a simplistic statement, but hear it out. "We are trying to bring back the dying art of the groove..." says drummer Glen 'Archie' Gamble "Modern rock music seems to have plenty of the 'rock' element and precious little of the 'roll'...the other half of it." Gamble's statement rings true, as modern rock radio seems to have a deluge of bands that have the crushing guitars and sonic boom, but no "bounce", as lead-belter Sarah Smith puts it. "We pride ourselves on being able to rock out with the best of em, but also get the asses moving." And there is definitely no shortage of crushing guitars and huge bottom end. "I love bands like Avenged Sevenfold and Protest The Hero" says bassist Zach Pero, "I get off on their aggression and heaviness, and try and bring that element to The Joys." Being the youngest as well as newest member helps keep Zach's ear to the musical ground.
The band's newer direction and sound is a continuation of their earlier more "melodic" sound. Having already sold over 12,000 Cd's off of the stage, the band is ready to take it to the next level..."World Domination!" says McKyes, with a laugh. But its actually not far from the truth- the band would love to see it's music released internationally. Setting it's sights on distribution is as many territories as possible is the plan. "One thing we aren't afraid of us hard work." says Sarah. And already, the band logs many thousands of miles playing over 250 shows a year. "Touring is what we do best; to experience The Joys live is the best way to be introduced to us." concludes Smith. So if you want to have a dose of full-tilt rock and roll...Come on Feel The Joys!
Discography
"Demolition Sessions" - First release under the new name (The Joys) - April, 2005
"Do I" - Second Single (Not Released) Produced by Matt DeMatteo
"Anyone Who Cares" - First single, received feature play across Canada
"Anyone Who Cares" - 6 song EP, currently sold over 4000 units
Hannah Wolff bullets the KCIA Big 50 chart at 34 first week in and Fyrefly move to the number 3 spot
In an unprecedented leap of faith we launched our amazing new female artist 48 hours ago onto the world and through our association with the KCIA website in the US. Today Hannah Wolff entered the KCIA Big 50 chart at number 34 first week in with a bullet with her sultry song, "The Ghost of You". Now we have had some speedy chart movers in thr past but nothing like this and so a big congrats goes out to Hannah and her band. Equally impressive but not that surprising considering their past success is the major move of UK Power trio, Fyrefly into the number 3 spot on the chart. The band have already reached the number one spot before with the eclectic, "Stain" and stayed there for 4 weeks. So, we just want to send a shout out to the fans of both artists a big heartfelt thnakyou for making this an amazing month for the label. We just cleared the 23,000 hits per day for the August month and we seem to be going strength to strength with each new passing month. Must be doing something right..lol For more check out the Big 50 Chart website: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
Hannah Wolff from Oklahoma City signs with DEAD Famous Records and releases new album
WE are very pleased to announce that after a long and lengthy negotiation we have signed the incomparable talents of Hannah Wolff from Oklahoma City in the US. Hannahs voice, timbre and delivery is without doubt one of the finest I have come across since first signing 15yo Sam Lombardi three years ago. Such a genuine honesty and a real heartfelt approach to her lyrics and her delivery make this artist a truly remarkable talent that will go all the way. The album, "One Afternoon" is an eclectic journey of 10 personal and introspective songs that find their focus in all facets of today's troubled social community. The album is slated for release in Canada in February 2008 through C4 and Koch Can distribution. The US release will follow shortly after and we are alraedy talking to a number of labels about the marketing of the record in the US market. We will release the album digitally across the world into our platform of over 150 plus digital retail outlets by the end of the year. For more check out the websites and listen to her album in full on the front page of the Astral site. http://www.hannahwolff.com
New Online Merchandise Store launched today for DEAD Famous Artists and Record Label
WE are very pleased to announce our online strategic partnership with a new merchandise company based in Australia. "Out With The New" has come up with the most user friendly interface for the simple sale of band merchandise wqe have found. We are pleased to align our current catalogue of CD releases as well as all our artist merchandise at very reasonable prices and easy shipping worldwide. So for all our artist fans that have been waiting to buy CD's and special edition T Shirts , Baby Doll T's and other merchandise, here is a chance to get it while its hot and only while stocks last. Stay tuned fror badges, key chains, buttons, lighters, laminates and caps coming to the new store soon. For more check out the website and the online store here: http://www.outwiththenew.com/ProductList.aspx?acc=83
Dark Shift (US) Play Indianapolis Metalfest and Rock Solid Pressure A&R Showcase in Florida
WE are very pleased to announce that Wisconsin based metal heads, Dark Shift are proceeding to kick serious ass on their current, "Gaining Ground across the US" Tour. They have just confirmed major performance slots at this years, Indianapolis Metalfest in Indiana and the Rock Solid Pressure A&R Showcase in Florida which is a total mecca for the ultimate gathering of the top dog A&R reps from all the major labels and the bigger metal oreinted labels and publishers. The details are as follows on Saturday 15th of September they play the main stage at the Rock Solid Pressure Showcase at Borbon Street in Florida and on Saturday September 22nd they play the main stage at the Indianapolis Metalfest in Wisconsin. For more check out the news release here: http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=101876
Muzzy Luctin play this Thursday 23rd of August at Bowl A Vard in Madison
Wisconsins finest hard rockers Muzzy Luctin play a big show at Bowl A Vard and their special Eastside Bike Night this Thursday the 23rd of August at 9.00pm. The band are busy in the studio working on their follow up album to, "Divine Intermission" which should be ready to release across the world in February 2008. For more check out the websites. http://www.muzzyluctin.com
Wisconsin metal heads DARK SHIFT added to the bill at the 2007 Indianapolis Metalfest
WE are pleased to announce that Wisconsin based metal heads, dark Shift have been added the to the bill at this years Indianapolis Metalfest in September. Along with Obituary who have agreed to headline the event, the lineup rounding out the national roster are Daath, Beneath the Sky, Destrophy, Emmure, Hemlock and Vampire Moose. The complete event bill representing an extremely vibrant underground regional metal scene will be annouced late next week. The band are well poised to have this as a launch show as the re-release of the bands albums, "Gaining Ground" will be due in stores in September in Canada and October in the US. So, this should earmark well to stimulate the albums visibility. For more check out the website. http://www.indianapolismetalfest.com/index.html
Janice Doll win prestigious Golden Mic award for sales excellence for their debut album in Europe
Congrats go out to our number one artist who have just won a Golden Mic award for outstanding sales of their debut album, "Silent Seasons" The prestigious award was earned for major sales in the European market, which continue to set new standards for a new band launching in the market place. For more check out the websites:
New licensing deal penned today to represent Nightmare Records in the US and its top tier of metal titles
A great deal was penned today with Lance King CEO/Owner of Nightmare Records in the US to represent for exclusive licensing the top tier of his best selling metal titles to our established platform of third party licensees, music placement aganecy's and music supervisors for inclusion into feature film, television and advertising platforms across the globe. Most of the titles will be shopped to our partners at the 2008 Midem conference and showcase platform in Cannes in January 2008. We are very proud to be representing such an incredible roster of talent to the worldwide market. For more check out the website: http://www.nightmarerecords.com
Growing Up Creepie nominated for Emmy Award in the USA
Amazing news today when we received word that Taffy Entertainment had been nominated for an outstanding (8) Emmy nominations including the series, "Growing Up Creepie" among other incredible titles. Congrats go out to all involved. Executive producers, Bill Schultz and Mike Young have pulled off something truly unprecedented. The pic below says it all. Read more at the link below. http://www.taffyentertainment.com/emmy.php
US Series, Growing Up Creepie sold and licensed to Scandinavian Broadcasters
More great news on the Creepie front with the series being sold among other titles to Scandinavian Broadcasters. Taffy Ent. recently announced sales of eight new titles to key broadcasters and cable channels throughout Scandinavia. These include DIVE OLLY DIVE!, FANTASTIC FOUR, SAMSAM, GROWING UP CREEPIE, TODDWORLD, PET ALIEN, INSECTOSCOPE and WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS. Norway's NRK has picked up five series (DIVE OLLY DIVE!, SAMSAM, TODDWORLD, INSECTOSCOPE and WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS); SVT Sweden picked up two shows (DIVE OLLY DIVE! & SAMSAM); TV2 Denmark and Finland's YLE picked up SAMSAM and DR Denmark bought DIVE OLLY DIVE! Cartoon Network in Scandinavia has obtained broadcast rights to FANTASTIC FOUR and season two of PET ALIEN; Nickelodeon will air the GROWING UP CREEPIE series. "The Scandinavian countries continue to be great broadcast partners for our shows," said Marie Conge, svp, international sales at Taffy Ent. "They and their audience are huge fans of animated programming, so we are particularly proud that these broadcasters continue coming to Taffy to find the next generation of great cartoons. We look forward to introducing our young fans in Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden to many of these fantastic new shows and characters." For more checkout Taffy Entertainment here: http://www.taffyentertainment.com
US Series "Growing Up Creepie" is sold to Nikelodeon International for Asia Pacific, Europe & Latin America
We are very pleased to announce that the Animated TV series, "Growing Up Creepie" has been licensed to the Nikelodeon International broadcast arm for 2008. Nickelodeon International has picked up the broadcast rights for Growing Up Creepie across its channels in Asia-Pacific, Europe and Latin America from Taffy Entertainment. The series is set to launch in early 2008 and marks the first-ever multi-business unit deal between the two companies. Besides broadcast, the two will share licensing and merchandising duties for the 26 x 22-minutes series that takes an irreverent look at adolescence through the eyes of 12-year old girl being raised by a family of bugs. The series features ex MPM managed artist, Sam Lombardi in the theme of thew series as well as a slate of original songs written by Mike Puskas and Sam Lonmbardi especially for the series. The series recently completed its successful broadcast run in Australia on the ABC Network and its popular, "Rollercoaster" format. Check out further info on further syndication at the links below. http://www.mikeyoungproductions.com/news.cfm?NewsID=44
Fyrefly (UK) enter KCIA Big 50 Charts in the US and debut Number 20 and also relaunch new website
WE are very pleased to announce that the second major song from the soon to be released Fyrefly album, "Boho Sheep" Just Lookin has entered into the KCIA Big 50 chart first week in at Number 20. The album will be released in Canada on the DEAD Famous / C4 label and nationally distributed by Koch Canada in late September. While the album will be released on the DEAD Famous/Nightmare Records label and distributed in the US by Koch International in the first week of October 2007. The band recently re-launched their website and have been playing a stellar line-up of quality dates across the UK. A major tour is planned for early 2008. Fore more check out the websites and links below.
MPM Artist Amelia Bloom completes first single and gets ready to release digitally in September 2007
We are pleased as punch to announce that recently turned 13yo Amelia Bloom from Australia has finished her first single for Arbor/EMI and will be released across the world in September 2007. The song, "Absolutely Perfect" was written by Amelia and Mike Puskas and was recorded and engineered by Matt Lefroy at Salt Studios in Melbourne. The production was then tweaked with real drums added by Ian Abramson at JTW Studios in Hubertus, Wisconsin and produced and remixed by Joel Wanasek and Mike Puskas. The final mix for the digital single was completed at Salt Studios by Matt Lefroy and Mike Puskas and we are stoked with the result of this very hooky and poppy commercial teen single. She has just launched her online EPK with music, pics, bio and blogs at Sonicbids. For more check out the websites and links below.
Fyrefly UK sign with DEAD Famous Records for the world and re-release acclaimed album, "Boho Sheep" in September 2007
WE are pleased to announce that after a long and lengthy negotiation that we have finally signed the power trio Fyrefly from the UK. The band are absolutely on the cutting edge of progressive pop with a contemporary edge and their album, Boho Sheep has just sold out its first pressing in the last 4 months of release. The band comprises of Miche Follano on vocals, Blue on all guitars, Jimmy on drums and the newly appointed Sooz on bass and vocals. The band have just completed playing major festival dates in the UK at The Rhythm of The World Festival which is the largest free indie music festival in the UK where they played to a crowd of over 10,000 strong. Now, a little background on the band. Taking the core of their influences like the powerful riffs of Led Zeppelin, the lyrical genius of David Bowie, the rhythmic power of the Small Faces, while fusing tribal and ethnic riffs and rhythms with contemporary vocals and production techniques: and you have FYREFLY…. These incredible diverse tastes and influences have produced an eclectic mix of riffy, catchy, beautiful, powerful and soulful songs that take you on an emotional journey through the joys and despair of life, love, passion and heartache...... constantly reminding you of old skool Rock riffs and the likes of Led Zeppelin III – After years of hard graft performing and perfecting their song writing and energetic shows, the fruits of their labours produced their debut album – Boho Sheep… Exploring the ways that life, love and relationships really are, their lyrics and vocal style will take you to a place that you know you don’t really want to go to….. Their incredible ability to show you how it really is, has appealed to a huge audience and their already huge fan base grows daily. For more check out the website: http://www.fyreflymusic.co.uk
The album "Boho Sheep" will be released on September 25th in Canada under the DEAD Famous / Arbor Records label and distributed by EMI nationally. The album will follow in the US and be released on October 10th through DEAD Famous / Nightmare Records through KOCH International distribution. The first single and the video for "YOU" will be simultaneously released digitally through, DEAD Famous / Arbor and IODA following the physical releases of the album in both the US and Canada. Plans are underway to see the album licensed to affiliate labels in both the UK and Europe for a February 2008 release. PLans are underway to have the album shopped by Mike Puskas at the 2007 Midem conference where the industry heavy weights agree to do deals on an annual basis. We freel confident that the album should pick up a slew of licensng deals into various territories at that time. With an extensive audience base in Australia plans are underway to see the band tour the country with Big Deal Inc as promoters to support a physical release of the album via DEAD Famous and its local distribution arm. Check out the video for "YOU" on You tube today and below.
Damnzal play this Friday August 3rd at Brunswick Club in Melbourne
Hard rockin metal babes, damnzal play the Brunswick Hotel on Friday August 3rd at 10.00pm with special guests, Thrillkillers and Uncaged. Look at forthe release of the newly remixed self titled album in the US and Canada in September and October 2007. For more check out the websites: http://www.damnzal.com
Janice Doll head to the UK for new album and land major distribution deal in Brazil
WE are very pleased indeed to announce that Janice Doll fly from Brazil to the UK today to commence work on their follow up album to Silent Seasons with producer, Stuart Epps (Led Zeppelin, Elton John, Brian May, Oasis etc) and will be working in none other than Jethro Tulls drummers studio in Henley in the UK for the next 5 weeks. The results should be outstanding. Unfortunately due to my health right now I won't be joining them as co-producer on the album as planned. The other amazing news for the band is that a leading Brazilian based Magazine style label has agreed to distribute 50,000 copies of the current album, do a full four page editorial on the band and their work in London as well as give them the front cover for a late September release across the Brazillian market. For more check out the website and all the details here. http://www.mp3magazine.com.br/
In addition Maximimum Booking in Germany has offered the band a booking and distribution deal through their label distribution arm, Net Muziczone for the GSA territories and you can check them out at their website here: http://www.netmusiczone.com/
The band are also at the number five spot currently on the Matchbox Radio chart in the UK and also feature their song, "London PLease" on the forthcoming, "Stay In The Box" double CD Compilation set due out across the UK and Europe in late September. Stay tuned for that one and to buy the new compilation click through to the labels online store here. http://www.matchboxrecords.co.uk
Dark Shift from Milwaulkee sign to DEAD Famous Records and release new DVD EPK
Milwaulkee based hard rocking metal outfit, Dark Shift have finished pre-production for their new album which follows up their recent success story with "Gaining Ground" A new Video based DVD EPK has just been completed which includes all the latest talking head style band bios, a music video for their big radio track on WJJO in Wisconsin for, "Mark My Words" and an impressive discography and media kit which will be launched across the US as they head off for a 15 date tour in September. On completion of the tour which includes a number of Metalfest style festivals in Cincinatti, Oklahoma and Texas they will head into the studio with producer/guitarist Joel Wanasek at JTW Studios to commence recording their new album for the DEAD Famous label. Meanwhile their current release, "Gaining Ground" will be physically released into the Canadian market under the C12 label and distributed nationally by Koch Canada. The video seen below has gained great momentum on You Tube and is indicative of the power and precision of this hard working (4) piece. For more check out the websites.
Label deal signed with C4 Records / Koch Canada and Arbor Records / EMI for Canadian market.
Big news announcement today with a major deal being signed off for the new DEAD Famous label with Brandon Friesen, CEO and owner of C4 and C12 Records and Arbor Records in Canada. The deal will see all new DEAD Famous releases broken into two seperate release options. All hard rock, metal and hardcore will be through C4 Records and distributed nationally by Koch Canada while all Pop/Rock and contemporary releases will be through Arbor Records with distribution through EMI. In addition a non exclusive digital deal for the world was struck for all DEAD Famous releases with Arbor and IODA / CD Plus which is the largest digital retailer in Canada. The current slate of releases sees, Janice Doll's "Silent Seasons", Damnzal "Damzal", Kitch "Let the Show Begin", New Self High "With Love & Scars", Konqistador "Courage Riot & Live at Switch", Sex & Patriotism "To Die For" Fyrefly "Boho Sheep" and The Red Tie Affair "Photographs & Broken Glass" released in late September 2007. IN addition a slate of new releases are scheduled for February 2008. One of the unique features of the deal is that 414 Studios in Winnipeg will be responsible for the mixing of the labels albums while all mastering will be handled by Drew Lavyne at All Digital in NY. For more check out the websites. In addition the label will provide an exclusive radio tracking service with its in house plugging co, Race Day Promotions who work closely with the distributor to effectively promote the labels release roster to the relevant core radio stations on a national basis.
20yo Garrett Ramquist from Madison, Wisconsin signs to DEAD Famous and enters the studio in August.
After a long and lengthy negotiation we are pleased to announce the signing of 20yo Garrett Ramquist. Garret hails from Sun Prairie in Madison, Wisconsin and has an incredible organic voice that can only be compared to Brian Adams meets Jon Bon Jovi with a little Chris Dautrey mixed in for good mesasure. I had a chance to hang out and mix it up with this highly talented individual while I was in Madison and also while I was in hospital in MIlwaulkee. Garrett recently launched himself on My Space to critical acclaim and is currently rehearsing a great new band and will be entering the studio to record his sophomore release for our new label deal with Arbor Records / EMI and will be released in February 2008 after being solidly shopped to other labels for licensing at Midem in January in 2008 in Cannes, France. He is a dynamic singer, songwriter and performer and the lyrics in his tunes are filled with hooky melodies and heartfelt lyrics that identify a broad audience and is very marketable today. For more check out the websites here: http://www.myspace.com/garrettramquist
Joel Wansek - Signed as US Staff Producer for DEAD Famous Records
Well the trip has taken a turn for the worst with me being diagnosed with a perforated intestine and accute Diverticulitis and thus hospitalised in Milwaulkee while staying with my metal band, Dark Shift. I was scheduled for an operation to have this repaired but was treated aggressively with IV Antibiotics and responded well enough to stay on in the US after I was discharged and recover at Joel Wanaseks wonderful family and this gave me a chance to work closely alongside him with a number of artists that he is currently producing. Subsequently I was so impressed that I signed him as a staff producer to the label and this opened a lot of doors with local bands based in Madison, Milwaulkee and Chicago. Joel is the lead guitarist and composer of hard hitting metal band, Dark Shift and he also runs a great tuitional websiste for guitarists around the world called, Insane Guitar.com as well as JTW Studios in Hubertus, Milwaulkee.
Joel Wanasek - US Staff Producer (Wisconsin) Joel Wanasek is a writer and producer based out in Milwaulkee, Wisconsin. His studio JTW Studios out in Hubertus has a solid and well balanced Nuendo platform with some great outboard gear and a nice drum room for live recordings. He specialises in the art of producing quality Metal, Hardcore and Blast Beat style bands and is the lead guitarist in local Metal band, Dark Shift. As of August 2007 he will handle a lot of Mid West A&R for the DEAD Famous label and his ears are some of the best in the US today. His most recent credits include his own band, Dark Shift as well as Ian Abrahamson, Rictus Grin etc For more check out the websites below.
Floor Thirteen from Canada sign to DEAD Famous Records for the new album
We are very pleased indeed to announce the signing of Canadian hard rockers, Floor Thirteen to the DEAD Famous label and their sophomore release has been produced by Juno award winning producer, Brandon Friesen of 414 Studios in Winnipeg and will be released through DEAD Famous / C4 Records and distributed in Canada through Koch Canada in late September. The album will be released through Koch International in the US in October 2007 and a tour is planned to support the release in late October / November at this stage. Sylvie Harris, president of Alpha Music Group in NY has signed on as exclusive manager and is working to put together a strong promotional strategy for the release in NY and the Mid West and East Coast markets of the US. The album is shaping up to be a bit of a milestone with at least (4) quality singles to be lkifted off the album and the band are looking to recording a cover of the Cranberries hit, Zombie as a special digital release single only as part of a non exclusive digital distribution deal with DEAD Famous / Arbor Records and IODA. Expect to see the album on all leading digital retailers like I Tunes, Rhapsody, CD Plus and Best Buy etc shortly. Check out a great live video the boys did while playing a major festival last year and you can check out all the links to their Sonicbids and other sites below. WE welcome the boys to the DEAD Famous roster of artists and feel confident that their material will license really well into all major film, television and advertising platforms across the world. For more check out: http://www.floor13.ca
72 Blues conquer Moscow in Russia and kick serious ass on Swiss Hotel Tour....Happy snaps below.
From NXNE in Canada we headed staright to Moscow where the heavy rock n roll incarnation, 72Blues were invited to play a 2 week Australian cultural promotion and tour of Moscow and kicked absolute ass. In addition to the 12 live dates with the hotel the band made friends quickly and were invited to play a local club show on Saturday 23rd of June at Krisne Zanra which is a ghetto style underground club with a great local sound and a big loyal following. Below you will see some happy snaps from the tour. Enjoy!
Konqistador return from triumphant NXNE Showcase tour in Canada
Konqistador set up for successful showcases at 2007 NXNE Conference in Toronto, Canada. Well the band came, saw and conquered in a big way at the 2007 NXNE Showcase platform. The band played a successful packed our NFF Australian Showcase at Rancho Relaxo and then again at The Avalon Front in Windsor. Well done to all the bands who put on a killer show. Check out the photos below.
El Fata and Bajimba play the Ritzy Brixton in London this Sunday 3rd of June
We are pleased to announce that Astral / DEAD Famous artist, El Fata and his band Bajimba is playing a major headline show at the Ritzy in Brixton. Live & Direct @ The Ritzy/Brixton London on Sunday 3rd of June. The album Miracle is currently available exclusively on Burnlounge as well as 150 plus digital retailers worldwide. Negotiations are underway to have the CD physically released and distributed by the Major, Mosaic Records in France in September 2007, so stay tuned for that one. For more check out the My Space site here: http://www.myspace.com/elfata
DEAD Famous rockers, King Lizard return from triumphant UK tour
King Lizard, hard rockin 4 piece from the UK have just returned from their, "Straight back to hell" triumphant tour of the UK where they received rave reviews from punters large and small. The boys are putting the finishing touches to their all encompassing tour DVD of the same name and below you will see a small snippett of what's to come. Below that you will see Nero Knoxx (the beast from the middle east) guitar solo whilst on tour with the manic four and their good mates, Vamps n Gypsies. For more videos, music and good times check out the bands website links here: http://www.kinglizard.co.uk and http://www.myspace.com/kinglizardmusic
Konqistador play farewell Showcase for NFF VIP Event at Revolver Upstairs
On Thursday 24th May you can witness Konqistador live with new K-members J. Vanderwerff (guitar, sequencing) and A. Waugh (synth) as part of the New Found Frequency - Farewell Australian Showcase. NFF is heading off to NXNE in Toronto, Canada to showcase 5 Australian artists - we're celebrating with a farewell industry VIP showcase featuring exclusive live sets by Konqistador, 84, Anita George and Liam Griffin. VIP/RSVP only. NEW FOUND FREQUENCY YOUR LIVE MUSIC NETWORK NXNE FAREWELL SHOWCASE Konqistador + 84 + Anita George + Liam Griffth Thurs. May 24 | Revolver Upstairs FREE ENTRY | RSVP VIP INDUSTRY PARTY 7PM | BANDS 8:30PM For more info check out the website here: http://www.newfoundfrequency.com
Astral Records Signs new exclusive Mastering deal with All Digital Mastering in NY
WE are very proud to announce our newly established association with major mastering house, All Digital in NY. Drew Lavyne CEO has been actively mastering quality material for both the Astral and DEAD Famous labels for sometime now and along with such major releases from such notable artists like, The Foo Fighters, Sting, Santanna, Dave Mathews Band, Van Halen, Barenaked Ladies, Natalie Imbruglia, Elvis and Aretha Franklin. He has just mastered Brazilian rockers, Janice Doll's album, "Silent Seasons" for a September 2007 release date in the US and Europe and is about to master Damnzal's remix album, "Rapunzal" for a November 2007 release date in the US. For more check out the website: http://www.alldigitalnyc.com/
72Blues Confirm major cultural Exchange Tour to Russia in June for Swiss Hotels & Lufthansa
Big news to report today, 72 Blues (founding members of Konqistador) have confirmed the first ever Australian cultural exchange tour in Russia. The band play 11 dates at the Swiss Hotel in Red Square, Moscow and as part of a summer Volleyball Tournament sponsored by Lufthansa among others. The band Jet off on June 3rd for the NXNE Music Showcase in Toronto and then after a NFF Export tour slate of shows jet over to Moscow on the 12 th of June. For more go to the websites and check out the links below. http://www.swissotel.com/moscow/
Damnzal play Pony on Friday May 18th and hit the number 42 spot on the KCIA Charts in the US
WE are pleased to announce that Damnzal are riding high at number 42 on the KCIA Big 50 charts in the US. To celebrate this and the interest they have generated in Germany with Gordeon Music in Berlin the gals play a hard rockin bitch show at Pony next Friday 18th of May along with Lucy's Crown and Thrilkillers. You can now buy the individual tunes from their self titled album at The Muzic in the UK where the girls are charting quite nicely. For more check out the websites and flyer below. http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
Konqistador plays major farewell show at Revolver Upstairs before heading to Canada for NXNE
Local Industrial K Army Spartans Konqistador has made a decision to blow this pop stand called Australia and relocate its entire operation to Europe. To celebrate this fact the K Army have decided to perform one last farewell show at Revolver Upstairs on Thursday May 24th, where they will unleash a taste of the brand new album, "Eliktriker" Its a joint presentation with DEAD Famous International and New Found Frequency (NFF) to commemorate the NFF Export Tour at Popkopmm in Berlin in September. Be warned this is the last time YOU will see the band live in Australia for a very long time and will feature our brand new line-up which will be the new band that moves over to Europe after the Popkomm showcases to build our empire OS. For more check out the websites below. See you there!
Damnzal (Aust) and Army of Robots (US) hit the KIAC Big 50 Chart in bullet positions
More US radio chart additions today. Two of our latest artists have e3ntered the KIAC Big 50 chart in bullet positions. Damnzal, who signed with us a week ago and were released to US radio not more than 4 days ago have hit the chart at number 49 with their hard rockin tune "Come On" in an unprecedented move for a new artist. Power to ya gals, thats awesome! Secondly, the latest tune from Arizona based popsters Army of Robots and their tune "Fabulous" have hit the chart in bullet position first week in at number 43. Way to go guys, this is a big step for you dudes with the new album underway and in production. Visit the chart here: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
Label affiliation set up with new Radio Plugging & Promotional Service in the US. Introducing AIRSPUN.com
WE are pleased to announce our new association with the newly launched Airspun Radio Plugging Service in the US. Airspun is a revolutionary way of getting 60 sec air spots for our artists on both major, regional and online internet radio stations on a state by state basis and dependent on the style and genre we are promoting at the time. All our artists now have accounts set up with the service and at the top of each of our artist pages here on the site you will find the logo to click on which will take you directly to the artists Airspun Radio page where you can check out the charts and seee where the artist is currently getting airplay and subsequent exposure and sustained visibility. For more check out the website here: http://www.airspun.com
Amelia Bloom signs 3 Year Exclusive Worldwide Management deal for the world with MPM Artist Management
After a lot of backwards and forwards on the contractuals we are very pleased to announce that 12yo singer/songwriter and performer from Melbourne, Australia has signed an exclusive worldwide three year management deal with Mike Puskas CEO of MPM Artist Management. Plans have been underway for sometime now to develop her debut album, "Rollercoaster" for a shopping spree planned in the US and the UK in June/July 2007. With 3 original tunes now professionally recorded and some 10 new tunes already written the interest generated with US labels like Disney has been very encouraging at this early stage. Amelia will be heading back into Salt Studios mid May to record two additional new tunes for the album and already LA producer, Gerry Stober (Pussycat Dolls) and UK producer, Stuart Epps (Led Zeppellin, Elton John, Oasis) have their hands up to work closely alongside this ultra talented little lady a bit later on in the year. A number of websites featuring her music have been set up and you can check them out at the links below. Finally, Amelia and Mike co-wrote and recorded the main theme to the new children's TV series for the 7 Network entitled, "Callabar Stoneage Warrior" In addition to the music component of the series she openly auditions for a character role on the 20th May in Preston at the Callegis Performance Studio...and we wish her all the luck in the world for that. Go Amelia your on your way now, you superstar you!
Damzal (Melbourne) Sign with DEAD Famous Records for the world and release debut album in the US
We are very pleased to announce the final signing to the DEAD Famous Records roster for 2007, Damnzal from Melbourne in Australia. Damnzal are no strangers to the local scene having been around in different incarnations over the last ten years or so. This heavy hitting, powerhouse quartet is made up of (3) overtly sexy females with talent up the gazang and a male drummer with angst and a style all his own. Together they create a sledgehammer sound on their self titled long play, "Damzal". The album will be repackaged with new artwork and a few surprises inside and has been signed to Blastzone/Nightmare in the US and Fontanna/Universal in Canada. The gals are working on a new batch of tunes for their forthcoming album which will be recorded in June/July 2007 for a November release date. A major US tour is also planned with other US artists like, Dark Shift (Florida), The Vintage Burning (Wisconsin) and Drench (Chicago) for the fall of 2008. You can check out thir awesome video for the cover of The Runaways classic rocker, "Cherry Bomb" on their My Space site and YOU Tube sites at the links below. For more check out the websites here: http://www.damnzal.com
Konqistador land the number one spot on the NFF Live Concert Charts in Australia
Congratulations go out to Melbourne based band, Konqistador for making the number one spot on the New Found Frequency (NFF) live charts with their stellar live set at The Palace complex from last year. As the band prepare to head off for showcase slots at NXNE in Canada in June and also a cultural exchange tour for 11 dates in Moscow straight after the Canadian dates this news comes at a time when the band are on a buzz that just won't go away. Check out the chart here. http://www.newfoundfrequency.com/chart/today/
Astral / DEAD Famous signs label deal with Blastzone Records in the US and Canada
Great news for the labels development today. We just signed a release and distribution deal with Blastzone Entertainment Group/Nightmare Distribution in the US and Fontanna/Universal distribution in Canada. Blastzone is a new label based in Kentucky and is earmarked itself for quality release of physical retail product into the international market place. The deal will see the top tier of the labels artist roster released from Sepetember 2007 and then again in November of the year. It has been further been agreed that 2 new album releases would follow in 2008 each month and an extensive PR and Publicity campaign is planned around each release. First cabs of the rank in September will be, The Red Tie Affair (Photographs & Broken Glass), Janice Doll (Silent Seasons) and Army of Robots (Secret To Everybody) For more check out the labels My Space here: http://www.myspace.com/blastzoneentgroup
New Self High complete first album, "With Love & Scars" Mastering underway
Florida based metal band, New Self High have emerged from Crush Studios in Orlando with a new album entitled, "With Love & Scars" Produced by Ben Shader who's recent credits include, Dysfunctional, The Dilligents, The Evening Habit, The Jokers and Twisted Oak. The album has exceeded our expectations and is currently being mastered by the gurus at Crush. The album is 11 power packed hardcore, metal tunes with a solid edge that defies convention. Plans are currently underway with our international partners to license the album before it's released in July/August 2007 worldwide. Miss Callazzo at Megaforce in NY is very keen to do a US deal here. For more check out the websites.
Konqistador play major farewell show before NXNE in Canada and Showcases in Berlin
A big month of major shows in April and the first local one to report is the big farewell show that Melbourne based artist, Konqistador are doing on Friday 27th April at The Evelyn Hotel in Fitzroy before they head off to NXNE in Canada for industry showcases and then off to Berlin in Germany for more shows and to capitalise on major interest that an extensive PR and radio campaign which is underway at the moment is generating. Special guests for the show are Voltera and Fallacy and all the details are listed below.
Janice Doll (Brazil) sign exclusive management & label deal with DEAD Famous for the world.
We are very pleased to announce the ecxlusive worldwide signing of Brazil based four piece Janice Doll to both DEAD Famous Artist Management and the label. This dynamic band have an amazingly fresh sound that defies convention and is filled with power rock grooves, hooky melodies and great dynamics that identify each tune as an individual master track with a unique edge which is all too rare in this world today. The boys are putting the finishing touches to their sophpomore release with DEAD Famous, entitled "Silent Seasons" This is an 11 track collection of UK style hard rock with some electro overtones similar to that of Muse and The Killers. The band play headline shows all over Brazil and both US and European tour plans are underway with First Signal Booking Agency in the US working on an album release promotional tour later on in the year. Look out for the first video for the single, "Overdramatic" which features some wild footage from the cult classic, "Barbarella - Queen of the Galaxy" and the infamous killer dolls sequence which fits in really well with the bands image and our marketing plans for the band. For more check out the bands websites below. Stay tuned for a full streaming IAC album page that will be added to our website shortly.
Muzzy Luctin wins IAC Golden Kayak Award for best hard rock song!
Congrats go out to Astral Artist, Muzzy Luctin for winning the Golden Kayak Award for IAC in the US for best hard rock song of the year, "Live With Yourself" The band go onto greater heights now as they begin work on their folow up album to the stellar release, "Divine Intermissin" which has sold very well worldwide and continues to do so today. For more on the winners click here: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
DEAD Famous Artist Series now available to buy on I Tunes Wordwide
Big news today. Happy to announce that the first DEAD Famous (12) Album compilation series has finally made it through to I Tunes Worldwide. You can check out and now buy single tracks from each album and or full albums online at the links listed below. These will also shortly be available in the DEAD Famous store on our website. Check it out and buy your favorite artist albums and support all our latest new talent today!
New Artists now posted on "The Muzic" Website with hard copy CD's ready made for sale
We recently reported a new partnership deal struck with the kick ass boys in the UK at The Muzic.com We have now begun populating the site with our artists, which include, tracks, blogs, bios, streaming players, fans and charts...as well as hard copy sales of our artist's album. You can check out the first batch of these at the following links for yourself. We certainly recommend and endorse this new music service which is about to get a major write up in the likes of NME in the UK. Check out the website here: http://www.the-muzic.com
Fyrefly UK Hit the Number One Spot on US Radio Chart
A great start to the new week with Fyrefly from the UK hitting the number one spot on the KIAC Radio Charts in the US. The band have worked hard to achieve this and it goes to show that pain, perseverance and hard work always pays off in the long run. Check out the number one spot on the coveted chart here: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
Exclusive Label affiliation with New Found Frequency - Live Streaming Service in Australia
We are pleased to announce our affiliation with New Found Frequency which is a live streaming network based in Melbourne and their new "Live & Archived" platform. From now on all Astral / DEAD Famous Artists on the local scene will be recorded live on a professional Pro Tools capture system in house at selected venues in Melbourne and the live set captured, mixed in a quality and fully outfitted OB Van and the performance made available fopr sale to punters 30 mins after the performance has finished in a high grade and nicely labelled Audio CD package with a full track list of the show. The live excerpts will also then be converted into a high res streaming format and featured on the website for fans to listen to or download tracks all the whole performance for a reasonable price to keep for prosterity. To check out all the latest news and to experience the newly launched site click here: http://www.newfoundfrequency.com
Label Affiliation with the new Community based site "The Muzic" in the US
We are very pleased to announce our new affiliation with the new online radio streaming and community based format known as , "the Muzik" in the US. We were approached to provide our label and management service base to this new found platform and shortly will have streaming artist sites on the website for all the top end artists currently in our roster. You can check out our affiliation here. http://www.the-muzic.com/index.php?t=recordlabels
12yo Amelia Bloom lands main title theme on Australian TV Series, "Callabar Stone Age Warrior"
Big news today! We are very proud of announcing that our youngest star of the Astral / DEAD Famous roster, 12yo Amelia Bloom has landed the main title theme for the new Children's TV series, "Callabar Soneage Warrior" which begins pre-production in April and is slated for a pick up by either the 7 or 10 Networks for prime time positioning as a weekly (13) part series. The main title theme, "Book of Dreams" was written by Mike Puskas and produced by Mike Puskas and Hugh Crothwaite of Composure Music. Below you can check out some stills from her forthcoming first music video for the series and also check out the track on her My Space here: http://www.myspace.com/ameliabloom
Way to go Amelia...your on your way...in a big way!!!
Astral Artists nominated for IAC Golden Kayak Awards
Congrats go out to some of our artists that have been nominated for major 2006 Golden Kayak Awards from Independent Artist Company in the US. The details are losted below. Also Fyrefly (UK) have made it to number 3 on the Big 50 US chart while, The Conspirators (Canada) have moved up to the number 7 spot. Both Ripped and Konqistador continue to climb the charts as well. Well done guys. For more click here: http://iacmusic.com/big50.aspx
1. Muzzy Luctin (US) - Best Hard Rock song (2006)
2. Kitsch (UK) - Best Pop Song (2006)
3. Samantha Lombardi (Aust) - Best Rock Song (2006)
Astral / DEAD famous signs Major Licensing deal with Blue Buddha Entertainment in the US
A deal was signed today with Charles Levan CEO of Blue Buddha Entertainment to represent the highest echelon of the Astral / DEAD Famous artist roster into the lucrative placement world of film, television and advertising platforms in the US. A number of existing artists have already been licensed to the platform under a blanket arrangement that the company have with our digital distributors, Blue Pie Productions. The new deal will see the following artists and their albums non exclusively represented to the top end music supervisors at 20th Century Fox, Beuna Vista Home Video, CBS/Paramount, Warner Bros Television and NBC/Universal. Recent placements include, MTV's The Osbournes & Meet the Barkers, Veronica Mars, Summerland, Las Vegas, One Tree Hill, Smallville, Queer Eye For The Straight Guy plus numerous feature films and major advertising campaigns. Congrats to all of the artists listed below who have now been added to a special Music Licensing Compilation CD entitled, "Astral / First Blush" which will be pressed to the tune of 300 plus units and circulated to all high end media and placement organisations in the US Licensing network. For more go to the website here: http://www.bluebuddhaentertainment.com
Canadian band, RIPPED sign exclusive management deal with Dead Famous Artists
We are very pleased to announce that Canadian based four piece RIPPED have signed an exclusive management deal with DEAD Famous Artist Managemment and join new signees, Konqistador (Aust), Army of Robots (US), Kitsch (UK) and New Self High (US) on the 2007 roster. The band are currently on a writing retreat in the US and on their return enter the studio to begin woirking on their new album for the Astral / DEAD Famous label. Tentatively titled, "The Next Chapter" the album is set to contain more eclectic pop sounds with a harder based guitar edge and vocal delivery from Sultry Sandy Olender than their last album, "Blow Your Mind" Expect a few surprises on this album including an amazing cover of....well you will just have to wait for that one. For more check out the websites.
Muzzy and Lombardi get chosen for NEXT BIG HIT round in the US
Congrats go out to both Muzzy Luctin and their tune, "Choice" and Samantha Lombardi and her tune, "Black Hole" who have both been chosen in this months Next Big Hit A&R competition for the major US radio network. Check them out and vote for their tunes all February and March here. http://www.nextbighit.com
Elza Mueller lands Front Cover of US In Town Magazine for March
NYC based singer, songwriter and performing artist, Elza Mueller has been busy on her latest college tour of the East Coast and has returned triumphantly to her hometown of Westchester where she was awarded the coveted front cover of In Town Magazine as well as a full color feature spread "on the verge" on both her history and her latest exploits. Check out the full news article here: http://www.lohud.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070207/CUSTOM02/702070421/1282
Samantha Lombardi on Australian Network Television
We are pleased to announce that Samantha Lombardi recently returned from her trip from LA where she got a chance to hang out with the producers of, "The Growing up Creepie" production team as well as record a few new tunes for her yet untitled new album. With its ever popular standing on Discovery Kids in trhe US, the series has been presold to the ABC Network here in Australia and will air on Tuesday 27th of February as part of the new Rollercoaster teen and kids afternoon format at 5.22pm and continue each Tuesday for thirteen weeks. After (6) weeks the program will be re-presented on "Rollercoaster Rewind" which will air between 6.00am - 7.00am on Tuesdays and hosted by teen sensation, Elliot. For more check out the website at: http://www.abc.net.au/rollercoaster
The format for the ROLLERCOASTER line-up is as follows:
1. Natural Sadie
2. Growing Up Creepie
3. Amazing Generality
5. Naughty Naughty Pets
Further Sales News....
Dont forget you can NOW buy her album at these quality digital retail outlets:
Astral delivers US Licensing Platform for its artists.
We are pleased to announce that Blue Buddha Entertainment in the US has just picked up the following new albums in their entirety for their lucrative television and feature film platform. For more go to our distributors website and click on the Media Partners section here: http://www.bluebuddhaentertainment.com
The artists chosen on this occassion are as follows:
1. Konqistador (Courage Riot) Aust
2. Fyrefly (Boho Sheep) UK
3. Ronny Morris (Sweet Silence) Denmark
4. Andra Suchy (Patchwork Story) US
5. Tessa Drummond (Day's Like This) NZ
6. Imaginary Bill (Breaking the Groundloop) US
7. Sam Lombardis (Full Stop) Aust
The major media platforms all this new material will be made available to include:
We are very pleased to announce that our number one artist from the UK, Kitsch has landed the exclusive license to have their song,"Just A Wave" as the closing credits to the independent feature film, "Shattered" by Partisan Pictures in Australia. The film is in post production at the moment and is slated for an August release date TBC. Well done to the boys and this is a great kick start to the release of their first album, "Let The Show Begin" For more check out the website here: http://www.partisanpictures.com.au
Army of Robots sign to Astral / DEAD Famous in 2007
We are very pleased to announce today that we have signed Arizona based five piece, "Army of Robots" and their highly acclaimed new album, "Secret to Everybody" Hailing from Tempe, Arizona in the US this eclectic band is a quality blend of pure pop with some great hard edged electronic overtones. There are plans ahead to release in addition to the album a three track Maxi single, "Gold Star" which will feature three of the bands most commercially viable tunes for radio and media. The album will be avaialble shortly on our Burnlounge interface in the US as well as some 150 plus digital retailers across the globe. For more check out the band on their websites below.
Pop the cork on the champagne we are celebrating today because the final instalment of the first series of the DEAD Famous Artist Compilations has been completed, shipped and delivered. DEAD Famous Vol 12 "Abrasive Memories" is done and dusted and along with the other 11 Volumes in the first series will be shortly available on the Burnlounge retail site in the US along with some other 150 plus digital outlets across the planet. Yippee! This is way cool! To listen to the album click here: http://www.astralrecordsandmusic.com/gpage10.html
We now bgin work on Volume 1 of the second series so get your submission in today through out Sonicbids artist submission link:
Unbelievable news to report that newly signed DEAD Famous artist, Konqisatador have monopolosided the KCIA Hard Alternative charts with tracks from their album, "Courage Riot" dominating the entire Top20. Check out the chart positions of Numbers 1, 4,6,8,9,15,16,17 as well as making number one in the Station picks for this week. Honorable mentions go out to three other Astral / DEAD Famous Artists, The Evening Habit (US), The Vintage Burning (US) and Cameran (Austria). Well done guys this is an absolute first for the label and you can check it all out here: http://iacmusic.com/genre_chart.aspx?Genre=Hard+Alternative
WE are also very pleased to announce that our newly signed Australian band, Konqistador have just completed their high end video for the tune, "Courage Riot" and will be used as a promotional tour to help set them up for their European tour in September where they will be attending Popkomm and other German based festivals and venues. Check the video out here:
