Music

Rachel Mason’s New Single for Circus of Books Documentary “Give You Everything,” Out Today

08/10/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Single release to precede Circus of Books, Opening Gala Premiere, and Platinum Alchemy Performance at OUTFEST

Los Angeles, California – Renowned visual artist/musician/filmmaker Rachel Mason (aka FutureClown) is releasing her new single “Give You Everything” on today via Spotify and other online services. The release precedes her acclaimed documentary Circus of Books premiering in Los Angeles as the Opening Night Gala film for OUTFEST July 18, and a special performance at the OUTFEST Platinum Alchemy Party July 20. Mason wrote the song for the closing credits of Circus of Books which documents her Conservative Jewish parents’ saga as the owners of landmarks of queer culture in Los Angeles, the Circus of Books gay porn bookstores in West Hollywood and Silver Lake.

The single will be followed by a full-length album, called Circus Life, which will be released when her film, executive produced by Ryan Murphy (Glee, Pose, American Horror Story), comes out on Netflix in the Fall. The “Give You Everything,” single package will include the original song and mixes by a pioneer of house/disco/electro/hip hop Man Parrish.

“When I met the producer Man Parrish, whose own music was made for gay porn, and who worked with my heroes like Klaus Nomi, David Bowie, and Madonna, and he offered to do this remix and contribute some songs for the film, it felt like divine intervention, as I suddenly had a direct link to the actual music of my film’s era. So many of the great artists of the time died of AIDS, so the fact that he’s still alive and I was able to meet him right as I was working on completing the film, was so lucky for me. And thanks to the label Dark Entries for the intro. Additionally, through them, the film was able to secure tracks by gay dance music composer Patrick Cowley whose songs are also featured in the film.”

Of the song and mixes Mason notes, “As a kid, driving up to the front of the store with my parents, they would go inside to do business, and there were all these guys standing out front in super short cut-off shorts, and everyone was just hanging out. That was an era that I now look back on with childhood nostalgia. A big part of the impetus for making the film was the knowledge of this piece of history disappearing. I saw all of the hustling and cruising from a kid’s perspective, and the store was a place of joy and hilarity. The song being upbeat, positive and danceable is important because that’s the vibe that matches the store.”

In the song’s lyrics, Mason writes from the store’s perspective, embodying a character who is both sly and mischievous, but also exuberant. She references the culture of the street, men picking up guys on the corner and signaling with colored bandanas. The song also references the notorious cruising zone “Vaseline Alley.” where sex was rampant:

“Wait on the corner till I give you a sign, can you see my red bandana is set to the right”

“Let me celebrate what you don’t understand, its where I get the strength to be who I am, and when you give me a look it takes me up, and away…”

“Cruising the alley with a broken tail light, Lose a few dollars but get a good price, I’ll be a friend for the night…”

The second set of remixes from electro-punk duo, L.A. Drones, noted Austrian electronic producer Patrick P, and Ian Coletti who composed the score for Circus of Books, is on the way as well.

About Rachel Mason:
Rachel Mason is best known in visual art and experimental music circles for performances which often contain fantastical narratives which interweave musical, theatrical and narrative elements into unexpected operatic journeys. Through her wide-ranging portfolio of mixed media work, she instigates fantasy and harsh realities through scripts, sculpture, rock operas, live performances and unique collaborations with artists, scientists, and dancers. She has recorded hundreds of songs and created a feature-length musical film which toured as a live performance, The Lives of Hamilton Fish in 2016. Mason has exhibited her visual art and performance work at museums, film and performance festivals internationally and at many of the country’s leading art spaces. Her work has received praise in VICE, Interview Magazine, The New York Times, Artforum, LA Weekly, The New Yorker, The Los Angeles Times, Art in America, and Flash Art. Her second feature film, Circus of Books premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival, is the headlining gala film at Outfest 2019 and will be released on Netflix in 2019, with Ryan Murphy as one of the executive producers.

LINKS
Insta: @FutureClown
https://soundcloud.com/futureclown
http://youtube.com/rachelmasonrocks
https://www.facebook.com/RachelMasonArt/
https://twitter.com/rachelmasonart
https://www.rachelmasonart.com/

Rachel Mason Performs New Single for Circus of Books Documentary “Give You Everything,” at Outfest Platinum Alchemy Party

07/05/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Following Circus of Books, Opening Gala Premiere at OUTFEST

Photo Credit: Dan Busta

Los Angeles, California – Renowned visual artist/musician/filmmaker Rachel Mason (aka FutureClown) contributes a special additional performance to the OUTFEST Platinum Alchemy Party in honor of the Los Angeles Premiere of her forthcoming Netflix Documentary, Circus of Books. Mason takes the stage at exactly 8:30 pm, on Saturday, July 20 to perform the song she wrote for the closing credits of her acclaimed film. Mason’s exclusive performance comes two days after Circus of Books headlines the opening night gala for OUTFEST, the city’s longest-running LGBTQ film festival, which was started in 1982, the year Mason’s parents became the official owners of a landmark of queer culture in Los Angeles.

The Outfest Platinum Alchemy party takes place at Stellar Stag, 205 S. Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90004 from 8 pm to Midnight. The bill is filled with established and emerging
LGBTQI talent namely, Madame Gandhi, Jesse Saint John, Tolliver, Chanel & the Circus, Josh Peace (DJ set), and Bapari (DJ set). The event is curated by noted filmmaker and festival programmer Tiffany Naiman. Tickets for the event are $25 ($20 with Outfest ticket stub or Outpass), include open bar, and are available at https://festival.outfest.org/2019/special_events/platinum-party/. The party is sponsored by Stellar Stag, Angel City Brewery, and EFFEN Vodka.

Mason’s single will be available on Spotify and other services July 12 and will be followed by a full-length album, called Circus Life, which will be released when her film comes out on Netflix. The “Give You Everything,” single package will include the original song and mixes by a pioneer of house/disco/electro/hip hop Man Parrish, as well as electro-punk duo, L.A. Drones, and Ian Coletti who composed the score for Circus of Books.

Mason, who sometimes performs under the moniker of FutureClown, was introduced to Man Parish through Dark Entries Records’ Josh Cheon who hosted a panel discussion with him for a RedBull Music Academy event organized by Taylor Rowley, music supervisor for Circus of Books and a longtime DJ and curator in Los Angeles. Mason notes, “Man Parish’s original songs provide the film a direct link to the legacy of queer dance music which was central to the culture around the store at its heyday. He is a treasure because his music is amazing, but also because he outlived his contemporaries like the brilliant Patrick Cowley whose songs are also featured in the film, thanks to Dark Entries who works with his estate to preserve the great work of many such artists.”

Since Bringing A Spiritual Dimension to Woodstock 50 Years Ago, Founder Sridhar Brings Bhakti Fest to a New Home for 2019

07/05/2019 by Susan von Seggern

29 Palms, California – 50 years ago this summer Woodstock promoters Michael Lang and Artie Kornfeld sought now Bhakti Fest producer Sridhar Silberfein’s advice on the soon to be legendary art and music festival they were producing upstate. Sridhar said to them, “Ya got some of the greatest musical acts in the world but what’s missing is the spiritual component.” With their to-do lists already bursting, they answered, “Ok you deal with that part.”

As can be seen in the documentary film about the event, Woodstock, on August 18, 1969, Sri asked singer/songwriter Richie Havens to introduce Swami Satchidananda. Still reeling from his legendary set, Richie gave him a “that would be a no” look. So, Sri escorted Swami Satchidananda and his entourage onto the Woodstock stage to deliver an invocation. More than half a million American youth were in attendance – the largest peaceful gathering in the West at the time. Swami Satchidananda introduced the power of mantra, inviting the crowd to recite “Hari Om” and “Ramaramarama.” A moment of silence followed. Not even a camera clicked.

While still on stage, Sri whispered to Swami Satchidananda, “Swamiji, wouldn’t it be great to bring this many people together to chant the names of God?” Swami Satchidananda smiled knowingly and said, “Yes, it would be great if you could do that.”

Finally, in 2009, 40 years after receiving his life’s mission, Sridhar founded Bhakti Fest, which has since become Southern California’s largest and most beloved yoga and spiritual music festival. Now after a decade in Joshua Tree, the festival is moving to a new home just up the road in 29 Palms, California.

Taking place September 25 – 30 at Roadrunner Dunes in 29 Palms, Bhakti Fest 2019 will feature amazing conscious music, yoga, spiritual and wellness workshops and more, attracting spiritual seekers far and wide. New features include a lake for swimming, aquatic, and paddleboard yoga, and vast vibrant space for art installations.

Headliners for the event include Deepak Chopra, Krishna Das, Mike Love, Dharma Mittra, Shiva Rea, Radhanath Swami, MC Yogi, Fannah Fi Allah, Saul David Raye, Donna De Lory, Sianna Sherman, Mas Vidal, Girish, Govind Das & Radha, Kia Miller, Dawn Cartwright, Ram Das (via video), and many, many more to be announced in the coming weeks!

The new location will feature three music stages, expanded yoga and workshop villages, a sound temple for sound baths, a healing sanctuary for bodywork, a mantra dome, Bhakti Kids Land with ongoing children’s programming, men’s and women’s sacred spaces, and a Kirtan school.

The City of 29 Palms has rolled out the red carpet for Bhakti Fest, and the producers are thrilled to host the festivals here. 29 Palms, known as the “29”, has become one of the hottest destinations for rock climbers, stargazers, nature lovers, Joshua Tree fanatics, and sunset seekers alike. It is the home of Joshua Tree National Park’s North Entrance, and the official Gateway to the Mojave Trails National Monument. Expect skies painted with color at dawn and dusk, night skies filled with an abundance of stars and the stunning Milky Way.

Expanded housing options include camping, RV Hook-up sites, on-site cabins, Glamping Yurts, Cozy Trailers, and many hotels and rental homes nearby in 29 Palms.

The Bhakti Fest Eco Artisan Village offers the best in vegetarian and vegan food, yoga clothing and gear, jewelry, art and unique collectibles. The organizers pride themselves on running a green event, offering free water and mindful recycling practices.

Early bird festival pricing is available for Bhakti Fest 2019, plus there are discounted tickets available for local residents, veterans, military, seniors, and students. Tickets are available at https://bhaktifest.com/bhakti-fest-tickets/.

Thousands Expected to Meditate Together June 22, 2019, at DisclosureFest and California State Parks’ Mass Meditation Initiative

06/05/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Yoga, Speakers, Workshops, Music, Vegan Food, and so much more!
Gates open 10 am – with a Live Stream Mass Meditation at 2 pm

Los Angeles, CA – DisclosureFest in association with California State Parks present the Mass Meditation Initiative, June 22, 2019, at the Los Angeles State Historic Park, 1235 North Spring Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Organizers expect upwards of 20,000 people to meditate together at the event and globally through a live stream at https://disclosurefest.org/live/. Additionally, DisclosureFest will host an event from 10 am – 10 pm at the park with a variety of top music acts, internationally known speakers, workshop leaders, and yoga teachers.

DisclosureFest founder Adrian Vallera notes, “We are so thrilled to be back for the third year. We’ve doubled in size each year from 5,000 to 10,000 and this year we are taking up the entire 32-acre park and going until 10 pm with huge music acts, so we are expecting 20,000 people. Our intention is to unite like-minded, heart-centered people in an effort to heal and raise consciousness on the planet with our mass meditation. In addition, we are excited to provide plant-based food, education about health and wellness, uplifting music and art, and inspiration for the creative spark that lives within every individual so that we can consciously create a more harmonious and peaceful world for the following generations.”

The music line-up this year will be a highlight and features headliners: conscious music superstar Nahko, currently on tour with stops including Bonnaroo, Red Rocks, and Glastonbury, SoCal electronic music luminaries Desert Dwellers (Treavor Moontribe and Amani Friend), transformational medicine musician Porangui, and making their return to LA after 10 years, Freedom Tribe. The Ascension Stage will feature top conscious hip-hop, R&B, and electronic acts like Srikala, Kiyoshi, Lizzy Jeff, Nina Grae, Jamie Schwabl, Diva Danielle, MelissFX, and Courtney Kitt.

Additionally, Disclosurefest Foundation has partnered up with Bhakti Fest to host a selection of top Kirtan musicians such as Govind Das and Radha, Sharanam, Jamil Apostol, and Prema Mandali, bringing this increasingly popular yoga modality to DTLA.

A day-long reasonably priced yoga festival in the middle of Los Angeles? YES! Top yogis including Yogi Cameron and Yogini Jaima, Nandhiji, Andrew Sealy, Cheri Rae, Kali Alexander, SuzeQ, Karen Russell, Chutney Berry, and more will teach a variety of styles – hatha, kundalini, flow, acro, and tantric. Early arrival with yoga mats for morning yoga is encouraged!

Workshop topics and speakers abound at DisclosureFest including such notable leaders as Nassim Haremein, David “Avocado” Wolfe, Jimmy Church, Billy Carson, Michael Tellinger (via video), Laura Eisenhower, Clifford Mahooty, Mirabai Devi, Zat Baraka, and more.

Other attractions will include the Wisdome LA Activation Dome for Ecstatic Dance LA, sound healing and immersive visual experiences; the Starseed Children’s Area with yoga, workshops, music and other conscious activities for children (and their parents); an Art Walk and Artist Garden; the SereniTea House and tonic Bar; a drum circle; and so much more!

This event is 100% plant-based and vegan. We are offering a beautiful selection of living, organic, and high-vibration food vendors for attendees to experience the best that LA’s vegan food scene has to offer!

The event has three levels of very reasonable entry:

$10 donation Fast Pass that will skip the line and support the amazing work DisclosureFest Foundation is doing in our communities – tree plantings, children initiatives and youth programs, beach and river cleanups, homeless services, and much more.
$5 donation that goes to the California State Parks Restoration Program.
In the tradition of The Mass Meditation, we also have our Free ticket option (expect long entry lines)
Tickets are required and are available here.

In addition to the mass meditation event, DisclosureFest hosts monthly opportunities for conscious earth stewards to volunteer for beach and river cleanups, homeless initiatives, conscious children’s programs, tree plantings and much more. For info on their current, future, and past events, please go to https://disclosurefest.org/calendar/.

DisclosureFest promises to be a beautiful day of earth and soul healing in the heart of Los Angeles at the city’s newest state park. Info and tickets are available at https://disclosurefest.org/.

Laroussi’s “Lost” Peaks at #4 on the Billboard Dance Chart

04/11/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Capping an Incredible Run for the Dutch Superstar’s First US Release on Xyion/AWAL with the executive team #poweredbyXYION

Los Angeles, CA – March 26, 2019 – Dutch superstar Laroussi just notched an incredible run with her first US release, “Lost” peaking at #4 on the Billboard Dance Chart last week. The gorgeous singer, born Hind Laroussi, who gained fame at just Hind in in her native country, The Netherlands, is now going by Laroussi for her new American career.

“I am so grateful to the American club DJs who embraced my music! Especially Chris Cox who A+R’ed an amazing bunch of remixes by Ralphie Rosario, Christian Poow, Kue, Lemi Vice, Jeff Bomb, DJ Taz Rashid, and of course his own! My team at Xyion led by Adrian Miller have also been a blast to work with! We are really looking forward to the next single and releasing the album exec produced by Bruno Mars’ Grammy winning songwriting/producing partner Philip Lawrence later this year!”

A true superstar, the tall gorgeous singer was the most popular Idol contestant in The Netherlands, and had all the celebrity accoutrements there including cosmetic endorsements, music in Heineken ads, hit records, magazine covers, representing her country in the Eurovision Song Contest, winning their equivalent of the Best New Artist Grammy, and even a high-profile relationship.

Laroussi is a powerful and dynamic artist who fearlessly and authentically merges the sounds and elements of her Arabic culture with rich soul and the ever-expanding sounds of pop music. She was discovered by songwriter/producer Philip Lawrence (Bruno Mars, Ceelo Green, Adele) and brought to the states to write and record what is now her debut album for the US, A+.

Laroussi has a magic that captivates any room she enters. She is reminiscent of the artists of the 80s and 90s in the sense that there is a hint of mystery and culture around her. She has an elegance that calms you, married with an edginess that keep you wondering, and longing for more. In her style she is immediately compared to artists like Rihanna, Shakira, and JLo. Her fashion sense, stature, and exotic beauty radiates.

Her songs are laced with an R&B influence that takes you back to the days of Cheryl Lynn and Natalie Cole. She has a dynamic vocal range similar to Toni Braxton and Alicia Keyes, with an unaffected smooth sensuality like Janet Jackson and Aaliyah… But with every similarity, her unique textures stand firmly on a strong foundation.

At 17 years old Laroussi took to the stage to compete in the Netherlands’ edition of “Idol.” From her popularity on that show, she inked a deal with BMG Germany and released her debut album Around the World under the name Hind Laroussi, which won her an Edison, the Netherlands’ equivalent of a Grammy, for Best New Artist.

Since then she has accumulated much European success on tours, television – including representing the Netherlands on the Eurovision Song Contest, magazine covers, beauty and fashion campaigns, single and album sales, video play, and many honors and awards for her music and her humanitarianism. Now this dynamic seasoned artist has come to America to share her talents with this side of the globe.

Laroussi is the daughter of a Moroccan father and a Dutch mother. She is cultured, outspoken, fearless, and dedicated to sharing her talents with the world. Family and friends are at the top of her list of what truly matters in life.

Laroussi is passionate about and has supported many causes, including organizations which bring awareness and support to refugees and immigrants working to find a home. The state of the world and the equality of people in it truly drives her to create. Her desire for unity and love transcends through everything she does. From the second you lay eyes on her, you know she is destined for greatness and stardom. Once you’ve spoken with her and felt her heart, there’s no question that she will leave a mark on this world that will never be forgotten.

Rarely does an artist, especially independently, get the opportunity to work with so many of the industry’s most proven and successful creative minds. The dream team who have joined forces to create Laroussi’s sound and show have brought their expertise in every area, which is showcased in every song.

The team includes exec producers Philip Lawrence, and Davy Nathan (Toni Braxton, Mary J Blige, Robin Thicke), music producers Nathan, Brody Brown (Bruno Mars, Adele, Mark Ronson), Jeeve Ducornet (Tupac, Paulina Rubio, Carlos Santana), Yan Perchuk (Karmin, Eric Benet, Stanley Clarke) and Des Dynamic (Tyga, C-Murder). Creative Direction and Vocal Production was helmed by Chan Andre’ (Beyonce, Whitney Houston, Paula Abdul). Laroussi’s coaches include Robert Stevenson – vocals (Rihanna, Pharrell), Kyausha Simpson – movement (Beyonce, Earth, Wind & Fire), and KJ Rose – performance (Britney Spears, Janet Jackson, Justin Timberlake). The songs were mixed by Tek O’Ryan (Justin Bieber, Rihanna, Beyonce). Her single remixes for the dancefloor are helmed by Chris Cox (Madonna, Whitney Houston, Janet Jackson).

Laroussi’s goals include adding a verse to the soundtrack of people’s lives; making songs to party, dance, make love, cry, heal, dream, and believe to; be on the list of the most sought-after performers in music; to be boundless and fearless in artistic expression; and to remain surrounded by people who care about art and making the world a better place.

Join the Shakti Community at Their New Location Come Celebrate the Divine Feminine in All of Us!

03/06/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Shakti Fest 2019: Yoga and Sacred Music Festival Mother’s Day Weekend May 9 – 13

Joshua Tree, CA – February 20, 2019 – The Shakti Fest community of yogis, meditators, conscious parents, and spiritual seekers comes back together for its ninth season, this year on Mother’s Day weekend – May 9 – 13. The 2019 Shakti Fest is at a new location, on the southern edge of the Mojave Desert – offering panoramic views of the North face of Joshua Tree National Park, exceptional desert vistas, and spectacular night skies at the Joshua Tree Lake RV & Campground, in Joshua Tree, CA.

Organized by Bhakti Fest, recently surpassing 10 years of producing conscious events, Shakti Fest is a unique springtime celebration. Driven by the divine feminine spirit, described in Eastern philosophy as the ‘dynamic force which moves the universe’ Shakti Fest features world famous yoga teachers, sacred music stars, spiritual and emotional growth workshops, sound baths, a healing sanctuary, and much, much more.

“We are so fortunate to be staying in the sacred vibration of Joshua Tree. Shakti and Bhakti Fest are all about heart centered community, a conscious and uplifting experience and the amazing line-up of artists, teachers and presenters in a family friendly drug and alcohol-free environment. We expect to offer the same amazing experience our events have always been known for” noted Sridhar Silberfein, founder of Bhakti Fest.

The Shakti Fest 2019 music lineup inspires attendees to sing, dance and open their hearts. This year’s line up once again includes the best Kirtan (a.k.a. chanting) artists on the sacred music scene: Jai Uttal, Donna De Lory, MC Yogi, Saul David Raye, Amritakripa, Gina Sala, Bhagavan Das, Larisa Stowe & the Shakti Tribe, Govind Das & Radha, Girish, Jaya Lakshmi and Ananda, Gina Sala, Fannah Fi Allah, Kavita Kat MacMillan, Krishna’s Kirtan, David Newman, Sirgun Kaur, and Wicked Hanging Chads, with more to be announced. The centuries-old practice of devotional chanting is considered to connect humans with themselves, the universe, and spirit. The entire Kirtan line-up is available here.

World-class yoga teachers are the heart of Shakti Fest, and spring in Joshua Tree is a beautiful time to practice in nature. With a multitude of yoga venues with classes from sun up to sundown, there really is something for everyone! 2019 Shakti Fest teachers include; Shiva Rea, Mark Whitwell, Mas Vidal, Kia Miller, Georgina Meister, Leeza Villagomez, Carmen Curtis, Hemalayaa Behl, Nubia Teixeira, Dr. Haridass Kaur Khalsa, Lisa Gniady, Dharma Shakti, Hannah Muse, Saul David Raye, Govind Das & Radha and local desert favorite Kristin Olson. Anyone can find their inner Shakti through energy invoking sessions in a wide variety of yoga styles. View the full yoga lineup here.

Shakti Fest 2019 Workshops will cover a plethora of wellness and conscious topics including Ayurveda, spiritual nutrition, tantric energy, breathwork, Sanskrit, conscious relationships, women’s sexuality, bhakti art, and hoop dance, with internationally known speakers such as Michael Brian Baker, Mirabai Devi, Dawn Cartwright, Siva Mohan, Zoë Kors, Lorin Roche and Camille Maurine, Manoj Chalam, Peace Guardians, Sharanam, Josie Keyes, Meghan Mahealani Morris, Rana Nader, Sarah Marshank, Syamarani, Zach Leary, and Dharma Devi. Shakti Fest also offers gender specific workshops for Women and Men, creating dedicated sacred spaces, which allow for a deeper connection and expression with sisters and brothers in a safe space. For further workshop details please go here.

In addition to the music, yoga, and workshops, Shakti Fest also supports a healing sanctuary offering a variety of bodywork and other wellness modalities (what’s a weekend exploring your divine feminine without a massage?!); a sound temple where attendees can meditate to the healing vibrations of top soundbath musicians; plus the younger set can play and explore in the expanded Bhakti Kids Land where families enjoy a huge array of special kids programming daily; a Chai Tea lounge with proceeds benefiting Food for Life Vrindavan; immersive Dome experiences; and Bhakti Kirtan School, where top artists share methods of creating Kirtan for a deeper experience of this increasingly popular genre.

There is no place like springtime in the high desert for a fully immersive, powerful conscious experience. Accommodation options include a huge area for car and tent camping under the amazing Joshua Tree stars. In addition, there are RV Sites with electric and water hook-ups, RV Sites with no hook-ups, Cozy Trailers, Bell Tents with an option to include cot & bedding, and fully styled out Yurt Tent Glamping (emphasis on the Glam in glamping!). There are also several hotels within a few miles of the property. Joshua Tree is also known for its variety of private homes to rent via sites like AirBnB including published modern masterpieces, rustic desert shacks, fancy Airstreams, and more. For info on accommodations please see https://bhaktifest.com/accommodations/.

The Shakti Fest Eco Artisan Village offers vegetarian and vegan food vendors, yoga clothing and gear, jewelry, art and unique collectibles. The organizers pride themselves on running a green event, offering free water and mindful recycling practices.

Early bird festival pricing is still available for Shakti Fest 2019, plus there are discounted tickets available for local residents, veterans, military, seniors, and students. Tickets are available at https://bhaktifest.com/buy-tickets/.

The Legendary Marty & Elayne Celebrate 35 Years at the Dresden Room April 1

03/03/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Los Angeles, CA – March 3 – It’s a rainy Tuesday night at the Dresden and every seat in the lounge is taken. A brief scan of the crowd reveals celebutantes and starlets, swooning to the crooning of Marty and Elayne Roberts, a glittery jazz duo who invites everyone to “Let’s Get Lost.”

On April 1, the legendary duo celebrates 35 years at the Dresden, an unprecedented feat in a town that tears acts down as quickly as it raises them up.

“One thing we decided early on in our career was to give the people what they want,” says Elayne, a petite L.A. native who started performing at the age of 13. “We were diehard jazz musicians, but we learned to play a little bit of everything to make people happy.”

Their rendition of “Staying Alive” in the cult film Swingers put them on a global map, earning them national TV spots, including a Super Bowl ad and primetime coverage by the likes of Anderson Cooper.

A quick scan of the smiles on the faces of their nightly guests, and it’s easy to see why their fans are so devoted. Dressed as always in matching sequined ensembles, they easily navigate between pure jazz standards, disco, and even sprinkle in some country.

Their fan-base includes such celebrities as Scarlett Johansson, Sandra Bullock, David Lynch, Johnny Depp, Leo DiCaprio, and Nicholas Cage, who famously sang a “Love Me Tender” duet with Elayne. At the cusp of her fame, Julia Roberts showed up with Kiefer Sutherland, who later produced a CD of their music, to croon “Makin’ Whoopee,” with Marty on drums and Elayne at her piano.

Jazz trumpet great Terrance Blanchard said of the duo, “I fell in love with their passion for music. Anyone who’s ever heard them play can tell they’ve created their own musical language.”

Of their jazz life, Elayne says, “It’s not different than anyone else’s except the hours are different, and it takes a lot of practice, it never ends. You’re always striving for new things to keep it fresh. The audience is my inspiration. If they’re feeling it, that’s the best reward.”

When Elayne loses herself to the music it’s a site to behold. “Elayne puts everything into it, she means it,” says Marty. “Especially her rock show. She gives it all she’s got. We’re not faking it and our crowd knows it.” He says the secret to their success is simple: “We’re just ourselves, and we let it all hang out.”

“I was on the ‘Late Show with Carson Daly,’” says Elayne. “It was like 30 seconds of ‘Staying Alive.’ I was up there smiling and dancing and when I saw it, I couldn’t believe it was me. It’s just a spirit that flows through you. If I was aware of it, I’d probably be too shy to do it.”

She says her greatest moment in her jazzy life was marrying Marty. “It’s kind of like when you find your soulmate,” she says. “Music is what’s kept us together.” She says her husband is a people person. “He loves people,” she says. “He loves talking to people. We had a gig in Palm Springs and by the end of the first day, everyone knew him. Everyone knew his name, and everyone was his pal.”

Reflecting back on April 1, 1981 at the Dresden, she says the 1940’s nightclub looked exactly the same except the crowd was over 40, there was a dress code but as they updated their repertoire, a younger audience found them.

“It’s amazing when the kids first started coming in,” says Elayne. “We got on jazz radio in 1987 and the young musicians from Frank Zappa’s band and the Red Hot Chili Peppers would come in. I love the years from 1987 to 1990. Those were some of the best years. After ‘Swingers,’ the loud trendies started coming in, but it was okay. At least once a night, I take them on a time travel jazz trip with me, and they calm down and fly with me.”

Among a career that includes so many highlights, Elayne says performing “That’s Life” for Frank Sinatra in Palm Springs still gives her goosebumps.

Marty, who always has a wink and a one-liner for his fans, says it’s their goal to continue giving Hollywood good vibes. “We really like to make people happy,” he says. “We see people change in an hour. They come in dragging, some with their pocketful of woes, and by the end of the evening they’re cool. They’re relaxed and their entire attitude has changed.”

When asked if they are considering retiring, Elayne says, “Not if we can help it. We’d be bored.”

Marty says he met Milton Berle once, and Berle told him: “My friends say, ‘Why don’t you retire? And I say, ‘Retire to what? That’s how we feel,” says Marty. “We’re musicians through and through and bringing a little bit of joy to this town each night we perform is what we do.”

Please join Marty and Elayne Roberts in celebrating their 35 anniversary at the Dresden Room on April 1.

Stephanie Carlin’s “Reclamation” EP Release Event set for January 25, 2019, at Jivamukti Yoga Center New York

01/14/2019 by Susan von Seggern

Stephanie will perform during Jessica Stickler’s popular Friday 6:30 pm live music yoga class, followed by a full band concert at 8 pm

New York City – December 17, 2018 – Noted New York City-based soulful rock Kirtan artist Stephanie Carlin will celebrate the release of her new EP “Reclamation” with a live music yoga class plus ecstatic trance dance concert at internationally acclaimed Jivamukti Yoga Center New York on January 25, 2019.

The event begins with Stephanie headlining an acoustic show during popular yogi Jessica Stickler’s weekly live music yoga class at 6:30 pm. Then, Stephanie and her band Transmorpheous celebrate that day’s EP release with an ecstatic trance dance concert at 8 pm. Presale tickets for the class/concert bundle are $35, and for the concert only it’s $25 ($40/$30 day of and at the door). A digital copy of Stephanie Carlin’s new EP “Reclamation: A Collection Of Mantras” is included in the price of entry.

“We have forgotten our power. And there’s nothing more important to me than people getting how powerful they are,” shares Stephanie. The musical sage presides over a multi-dimensional platform as a speaker and singer-songwriter, kids record label founder, and life coach for artists. She’s on a mission to empower people to shed self-doubt and discover their truth. And she happens to be an expert at it.

Noting, “I’m reclaiming my voice, my art and myself.” Stephanie is championing her message with a bold new EP titled “Reclamation.” The album is a stylistic mosaic infusing classic Kirtans with rock, jazz, and soul.

“Reclamation” fearlessly mixes ancient Sanskrit mantras with Stephanie’s rebellious nature that defies the typical new-age genres. “I am asking the questions ‘what does it take to be happy and truly free?’” she says. The 4-song EP with the full title: “Reclamation – A Collection of Mantras” boasts an in-the-moment electricity seldom experienced with devotional music. The single out now “Lokah Samastah” simmers with touches of Afro-beat, chiming guitars, dreamy harmony, and slow-burn soulful vocals. Here, set against traditional texts, Stephanie challenges what it takes to be an enlightened spirit.

Her rendition of “Hare Krishna” is like no other. Stephanie brings the otherworldly composition to street level with brawny rock guitars, and surging and passionate singing. Other tracks favor ambitious arrangements with mesmerizing ethereal touches, sweetly soulful vocals, and forays into majestic rock epic territory.

Stephanie’s vocals are richly dynamic, spanning woozy sensuality to soaring emotionality. Lyrically, Stephanie is unafraid to make traditional texts resonant in today’s world with her own insights and commentary. “I hear all these yogis and gurus and spiritual teachers saying, ‘Just be free! Just take a deep breath and let the day go, RIGHT NOW!’ What does that even mean?” She continues, “I’m really looking at our triggers, our resignation, our cynicism, to actually release what stops us from being free. That’s what I write about. The scary work of looking, acknowledging, and if we have the courage, transforming it all.”

Since 2012, Stephanie has fueled her music career as the founder of Free Spirits Music, an international songwriting school with thousands of students across 9 countries. Based in Brooklyn, Free Spirits Music trains artists to be leaders and emphasizes breakthroughs in self-expression and self-doubt through music. The school has blossomed to boasting sold-out semesters, presenting annual rock shows, and, in 2018, becoming a kids’ record label.

As a result of her flourishing program, Stephanie was commissioned to create the curriculum for the John Lennon Real Love Project, a songwriting program for children afflicted with cancer. The program has been endorsed by Yoko Ono since 2015. Stephanie was the Associate Producer of the Annual John Lennon Tribute for 8 years, and it is the only Lennon tribute in North America endorsed by Yoko Ono.

Given her valiant vulnerability, it may come as no surprise that Stephanie came up something like a punk with a mystical goth streak. She led a 10-piece band called Oliver Lankard at just 16 years old. By her senior year of high school, she had convinced her principal to give her a half-day schedule so she could catch an afternoon train from her hometown of Hampton Bays to New York City. She was commuting to record her debut EP, the Agony and Ecstasy of (2008). This is where her career truly began.

Stephanie went on to release her debut LP Tree Of Series (2012) under the band name Avidya And The Kleshas. She’s garnered accolades in such venerated press outlets as MTV, The Deli Magazine, and The Southampton Press, among others. Stephanie honed her craft at Long Island University in Brooklyn where she graduated with a degree in vocal jazz performance. “Even though my shows were packed, it felt like nobody was listening. I needed so much courage to wake up every day and keep writing music,” Stephanie explains.

In 2015, Stephanie had the honor of performing at an international United Nations Conference in South Korea with thousands of delegates in attendance, including the UN secretary general Ban Ki-Moon. There she saw firsthand the power of music to transform lives at a global scale. She adds: “And while all these delegates wanted to change the world, they were struggling with changing themselves.”

Now, Stephanie performs exclusively in yoga studios and at yoga festivals. “It’s a whole ethereal experience. The listeners, the yogis, are in sync with the pulse I set. People are breathing with the music. It’s a shared experience in this whole other way than a conventional show.”

Stephanie Carlin is guiding a new generation of artists to deal with the conditions of their lives to self-actualize dreams — or at very least, start to discover them. “Reclamation” is a statement of rebirth. “It’s liberating and terrifying,” she acknowledges, “but it’s so much better than being chained down by fear.”

Steve Weisberg & his Orchestra Perform at Santa Monica’s Magicopolis November 14 with Special Guests Including Gaby Moreno, NRBQ’s Terry Adams and more

11/12/2018 by Susan von Seggern

October 17, 2018, Santa Monica, CA – Noted for his long and busy career as a producer and music director Steve Weisberg is bringing his orchestra, with a who’s who of LA’s top session musicians, together again for a variety show style concert at Magicopolis, 1418 4th Street, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Wednesday November 14 at 8pm. Tickets are $30 and are available here.

Joining Weisberg’s amazing 17-piece orchestra will be NRBQ founder Terry Adams, noted indie Latina singer/songwriter Gaby Moreno, Billboard Jazz Charting Ghanian-American singer Abiah, noted father/son act The Cages, Suzy Williams – long known and loved as the songbird of Venice, and up and coming singer Clara Zimm, with more special guests to be announced.

Weisberg has extensive experience as an arranger and musical director on recordings and live events often for famed producer Hal Willner with artists including Sting, Elvis Costello, Marianne Faithful, K.D. Lang, Macy Gray, BØRNS, David Byrne, Lou Reed, Carla Bley, Michael McDonald, Kesha, Tony Clifton, Howard Tate, Shane McGowan, Jill Sobule, Jackson Browne, Bill Frisell. and many, many more.
Weisberg describes his orchestral aspirations to be “Lawrence Welk meets Spike Jones meets Frank Zappa.” Adding, “come on down and get ready to be amazed, surprised and thoroughly entertained!”

Past SWO shows included performances by BØRNS, Victoria Williams, Jill Sobule, Petra Haden, Sussan Deyhim, Mocean Worker, and Perla Batalla, so attendees never know what surprise guests might pop up!

Noted LA Yoga Teacher Alex Dawson Releases “Om Mani Padme Hum” EP October 5

10/04/2018 by Susan von Seggern

Release Event Kirtan Scheduled for 12 Noon Sunday October 7 at Wanderlust Hollywood

Alex Dawson EP cover Los Angeles, CA – September 17, 2018 – With a packed schedule of private lessons, teaching nine classes weekly at three Equinox locations and Wanderlust Hollywood, traveling to teach at the Wanderlust festivals, and hosting several retreats annually, it’s a wonder popular LA yoga teacher Alex Dawson has time to catch an in-breath, let alone record an EP, but the three song “Om Mani Padme Hum” is set for release on October 5 on Spotify, Apple Music and all other major online outlets.

The release event for the EP will be an hour long Kirtan session at 12 noon on Sunday October 7 at Wanderlust Hollywood,1357 Highland Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028. The free event will take place immediately after she teaches Wanderlust’s popular Sunday morning “Soulscape” class.

Joining her on the gig are EP producer, bass player and beatsmith John von Seggern who is noted for his work with electronic jazz legend Jon Hassell and his Indian-style global hit remix of Nelly Furtado’s “Like a Bird,” and the EP’s guitarist Matt Piper, who is revered in the music business as a top expert on Propellerhead’s Reason software.

In addition to “Om Mani Padme Hum,” the other two Sanskrit mantras on the EP are “Gopala” and “Jai Hanuman.” Dawson notes, “when I started playing with John and Matt in 2016, I fell in love with the collaboration and how the mantras came to life. Putting out an EP is super scary and breeds resistance so I’m thrilled to set this one free. I hope listeners enjoy it, too!”

Event sponsors include Magic Dates and Guayaki Yerba Mate. Instead of hot tea, Guayaki will be providing some of Alex’s favorite new flavor – sparkling grapefruit ginseng.

Alex began teaching yoga in 2002 to Kathleen Turner, Lorraine Bracco, and the Broadway cast of ‘The Graduate.’ She did her 200-hour training at Sonic Yoga in Manhattan and studied many forms of meditation including Vedic with Thom Knoles, Vipassana as taught by S.K. Goenka and Mindfulness with Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. Alex is studying Sound Healing and has created for Wanderlust Festivals her signature “Get Woke” class which is a powerful vinyasa practice that lands savasana into a sound bath and wakes you up with a Bhakti hit of call and response chanting. “Bhakti is another form of sound healing. It creates unseen healing both in the body and the community and it penetrates deep. It is a natural compliment to vinyasa for me both as a student and teacher.”

Currently, Alex is based in Los Angeles and teaches at Wanderlust Hollywood and Equinox where she often brings her harmonium for a closing Bhakti hit. She is inspired by people who recover from anything. That moment of transformation is her deepest call of illumination and is why she was so drawn to “Om Mani Padme Hum” as her debut EP. She travels worldwide to lead yoga retreats. Next up is her New Year’s Retreat in Mexico toasting in 2019, and later…Bali.

Alex was also a lead in the critically acclaimed and New York Times featured web series ‘Namaste, Bitches,’ but she swears, it’s not like that. (At least not in her class).