Support the Moog Foundation with your vote!

The Bob Moog Foundation could really use your help, and it's as easy as casting a vote online before July 12th (Monday)!

Chase Community Giving is awarding $5 million to 200 non-profits who get the most number of online votes. We need about 1000 votes to access a $20,000 grant. This grant would make all the difference for the Bob Moog Foundation right now! If everyone on this list votes, we could access the grant. Your vote would make it possible for us to continue our work this summer and beyond.

The voting takes place through Chase Community Giving's Facebook page, but you DO NOT have to be on Facebook to participate.

To vote for the Bob Moog Foundation, please click here.

Also, consider asking your friends to vote as well, either by Facebook or email. Pass this email along to anyone you think would be interested! EVERY VOTE COUNTS!

Thanks to all of you for your time, consideration and support. The support we get from NEARfest is really remarkable and it's never taken for granted!

Warm regards,

Michelle Moog-Koussa
Executive Director
The Bob Moog Foundation
www.moogfoundation.org
Posted: 07.10 | More information |

A NEARfest Thank You

As another NEARfest passes into the collective unconscious, it is with great humility that Jim, Kevin and I say a huge "thank you" to everyone who attended this year’s edition. As this year's theme suggested, this truly is about you. It would have been easy to have let NEARfest fade away into the progressive sunset, but truth be told, it's the musical chasm that would be left behind that keeps us coming back. From our standpoint, it is a labor of love for the music, the camaraderie and the desire to keep the progressive music movement alive in our little corner of the world that drives us. A massive "thank you" goes out to all the bands, their managers and crew for honoring us with their music, sweat and passion. This year our stage saw what no stage had ever seen; Steve Hackett, Robert John Godfrey, Gary Green, Malcolm Mortimore and Eddie Jobson all sharing the limelight. We couldn’t realistically have imagined a more fitting quintet of progressive music icons gracing our stage and your hearts, and it is with humble words that we say, it was an honor to have you all. A huge "thank you" goes out to all the “undercards” for adding to what this festival has always been about - diversity.

Thanks of course to the vendors, who quell our insatiable appetites for plastic discs of musical wonder. A big thank you to the NEARfest staff and crew, you are backbone of the festival. Thanks to artists Mark Wilkinson and Claus Brusen for expanding our Artist Room - it furthers the definition of an Art Rock festival. Fathers rejoice, no Father's Day clash - the dates for NEARfest 2011 have been set for June 24th, 25th and 26th. With Gösta Berling Saga and simakDialog already on board, the evolution will continue in 2011. We hope you will find the time and the passion to do it all over again with us.

Ray, Jim and Kevin
Posted: 06.29 | More information |

Vocalist change for Three Friends

Due to some last minute logistical issues, Three Friends will be featuring a different lead vocalist. Pierre Bordeleaux will be fronting the band for their headline performance on Saturday night at NEARfest. Gary Green assures us that Pierre knows all the twists and turns and that he will surely impress.
Posted: 06.18 | More information |

NEARfet Charity Cask Night at the Bethlehem Brew Works

First a little history behind Charity Cask Night...

A craft brewery draws its character and strength from its community, but it can also give back to the community and help create positive change. That's the idea behind the series of benefit events taking place at the Bethlehem Brew Works every month. Each Thursday, beginning at 5:00pm, Bethlehem Brew Works head brewer Beau Baden offers a hand pumped, cask-conditioned ale from a 10-gallon barrel called a firkin. The cask is always a special, one-of-a-kind beer connoisseur’s treat. It is available only until it runs dry, which could be just hours (or less) after it's tapped.

Since June of 2006, the entire proceeds of the Bethlehem Brew Works first Thursday's "first firkin" of the month has been donated to a local non-profit organization. Better still, the non-profit recipient has the opportunity to present literature and banners, and have representatives on hand for an informal Q&A and info-session about their community work.

Previous charities that have benefited from the Brew Works event have been the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, the Historic Bethlehem Partnership, Communities In Schools, WDIY Public Radio, KidsPeace, The Allentown Symphony, TeenCentral.net, Center of Animal Health & Welfare of Northampton County, Miller-Keystone Blood Center, Celtic Cultural Alliance, "Gift of Life Family House", "Walk for Autism Now" – Autism Speaks and the Alliance for Building Communities, Center for Animal Health & Welfare, Civic Theatre of Allentown.

This year, the Bethlehem Brew Works is holding an extra Charity Cask Night. On Thursday, June 17th at 7:00pm (note the time change from typical cask nights), please join us for a special NEARfest Celebration and the premiere of [b]Belexes Belgian Ale[/b]! 13oz glasses of this special beer will be selling for $4.75 and 100% of its sales will be going to support, as Mike Fegley of the Brew Works puts it, "our rockin' friends from NEARfest." Come join us for a very special Charity Cask Night at the Bethlehem Brew Works!

This year's beer logo, again courtesy of Tom Whalen of strongstuff.net, will also be revealed at the NEARfest Charity Cask Night!
Posted: 05.24 | More information |

NEARfest 2010: A Sold Out Affair!

In keeping with the rich tradition of NEARfest’s past, Jim, Kevin and I are proud to announce that NEARfest 2010 has sold out the entire 3-day weekend. This makes 12 in a row and is of course not possible without you folks, the ticket-buying, prog-loving fans. You place upon us your trust that we will bring to you a stellar lineup and a top-notch production as has been the tradition for these many years and I believe we have responded admirably. We at NEARfest extend our thanks and our hands to the Patron Program members, without whom we could not possibly meet our pre-production costs, to the general public for scarfing up the remaining tickets, and to the entire staff at the Zoellner Arts Center for helping us to our ultimate goal. See you all in June!
Posted: 04.22 | More information |

Ticket Day Guildines for Box Office Line

As ticket sale day for NEARfest approaches, we need to have some "rules" in place to ensure fairness with the process. If when you show up and there is no "list" started, you may start the list but at least one of the people in your group must remain in queue for your position to be valid. With the exception of going to the toilet, for a quick bite or a smoke, you must remain in the "line." There should be no going back to the hotel for the night only to return with the expectation of a saved place on the list. The Zoellner staff is very familiar with our list and "overnight" line-up and with proper self-policing, there should be no issues.

Technically, the building opens at 7:00am, so there is no guarantee that you will not be asked to leave the building and to return in the morning. Most of you who have shown up in the past are familiar with the drill. Typically, people who have shown up at the box office were assured of getting tickets, however the box office does reserve blocks of tickets for phone and Internet sales as well. If everyone adheres to the "rules," we will have a great ticket sale day, complete with great java, donuts and great company. We will see some of you on Saturday morning. Good luck to everyone buying tickets and thanks again for your continued support of the festival!

Just a reminder that the box office opens at 10:00am ET this Saturday, March 20th. See the General Sales page for more information.
Posted: 03.15 | More information |

12th Annual Gagliarchives NEARfest Radio Special

Tune in to The Gagliarchives this Saturday evening, March 6th from 10:00PM to 2:00AM ET as host Tom Gagliardi welcomes Ray Loboda, Jim Robinson and Kevin Feeley to the studio for the Annual NEARfest Radio Special. Tom will feature music from each of the 10 performers for this year's edition along with other fantastic progressive music. There might even be some levity as well, so go to www.gagliarchives.com or www.auralmoon.com for listening options. Ray, Jim and Kevin will be in the various chat rooms, such as Progressive Ears, along with host Tom Gagliardi to answer questions about NEARfest 2010, what might in store for the future and even some helpful cooking tips. Hope to see you there.
Posted: 03.04 | More information |

Eddie Jobson, the Ultimate headliner

It is with great pleasure and an even greater sense of excitement for all of us at the home offices of NEARfest to welcome Eddie Jobson - The Ultimate Zero Project to the stage in Baker Hall this June.

The Ultimate Zero Project is primarily an instrumental lineup and features a revolving list of virtuoso musicians. The project performs music from Eddie's latest project UKZ, his solo work and also delves into his back catalog with the many projects and acts he has been a part of and helped create.

For those of you who may not know Eddie Jobson's history here is a quick synopsis for you. From his childhood in Billingham, Stockton-on-Tees, England Eddie started playing piano at age seven and violin at eight. By the time he was 17 he joined Curved Air and from there he stepped in to take the reins from Brian Eno in Roxy Music. In 1976 Eddie became a member of Frank Zappa's band. Then in 1977 the mighty UK was born. Joining Eddie in this monstrous band were Bill Bruford, John Wetton and Allan Holdsworth with Terry Bozzio replacing Bruford for the second and third releases. The band broke up in 1980 and solo work ensued. Shortly after Eddie was asked if he would participate on Ian Anderson's solo album which would ultimately become the Jethro Tull release called "A." Two solo releases followed in the 1980's, "Zinc, The Green Album" and "Theme of Secrets." Throughout the next 15-20 years Eddie became one the more sought after soundtrack composers in the television and movie industry. Thankfully for us Eddie made his return to the band format and the live setting starting with the 2007 formation of UKZ. Since this time many variations of Eddie's band and music have made there way back to the stage and with that a visit to NEARfest 2010.

Please join us in welcoming one of the finest musicians and artists the world over, progressive or otherwise, and his outstanding band - Eddie Jobson - The Ultimate Zero Project as they headline NEARfest 2010 Sunday.
Posted: 01.16 | More information |

Happy New Year; General Ticket Sale Date Set

From all of us in the NEARfest camp, a Happy New Year to you all. Thanks for all the past support and here's to a great 2010. The general ticket sale is set for Saturday, March 20th at 10:00am EST. Tickets can be purchased online from Zoellner Arts Center Online Tickets Website, by phone using Visa, MasterCard, or American Express and in person at the Zoellner Arts Center Box Office, 420 East Packer Avenue Bethlehem, PA. Join us in the early morning on March 20th at the box office for coffee and donuts and get your place in the queue. Keep tuned in for Patron Program info and our final band announcement. On behalf of Jim, Kevin and the rest of the NEARfest staff, here's to another year of great live progressive music.
Posted: 01.03 | More information |

Riverside returns to open Alumni Night

NEARfest 2010 is proud to present as the opening band for Alumni Night Friday, Poland’s very own Riverside. Founded in 2001 by guitarist Piotr Grudzinski, drummer Piotr Kozieradzki and bassist/vocalist Mariusz Duda, with keyboardist Michal Lapaj joining soon after the recording of their debut album, Riverside have been on a steady climb up the progressive metal ladder impressing fans and media alike. Experts have called them a stylistic mix of Pink Floyd, Tool, Porcupine Tree and Dream Theater and, with the completion of the trilogy of albums "Out of Myself," "Second Life Syndrome" and "Rapid Eye Movement," they have emerged with their own very distinct style. Since their pivotal appearance at NEARfest 2006, Riverside have grown and matured into one of the most important and influential bands on the scene today.

With their latest release, "Anno Domini High Definition," Riverside has composed an album which is a perfect reflection of our times. Duda summarizes: "It's an album about people who know they need to speed up or they'll get left behind. About people who sometimes, despite themselves, will stop at nothing to achieve their aims. It's an album about chaos, constant race, uncertainty, stress, and the struggle to survive." "ADHD" marks a temporary climax in the quartet's work, reflecting the energy and spirit of the early '70s. Recalling such bands as Rush, Deep Purple and Tangerine Dream with added modern sonic sensibilities, Riverside have developed an album which ultimately sounds like... Riverside.

The band have just concluded their most extensive and successful tour to date, 45 shows in 3 months across Poland and Europe. Their enthusiastic fan base is growing steadily and glowing reviews of their albums and live shows are still being written. Recently, "ADHD" has found its rightful position in top spots on several Best of 2009 polls most notably, #3 on the Progarchives poll, #2 on the Gagliarchives poll and as a #1 selling album in Poland. It is with great honor that NEARfest 2010 is able to present in a sophomore appearance, the indomitable Riverside.
Posted: 12.20 | More information |

Steve Hackett to Headline NEARfest Alumni-Night Friday

NEARfest is honored to present in a sophomore appearance, Steve Hackett and his band. There is very little that prog fans don't know about the legacy of Steve Hackett. He is a renowned, iconic and immensely talented and innovative rock musician. He was lead guitarist with Genesis as part of their classic lineup with Gabriel, Collins, Banks and Rutherford that produced acclaimed albums such as "Nursery Cryme" and "Selling England by the Pound" (a favorite of John Lennon). From the post Gabriel era came the classics, "A Trick of the Tail" and "Wind and Wuthering." With Steve’s extraordinary versatility in both his electric guitar playing and his composing, he involves influences from many genres, including Jazz, World Music and Blues. His classical albums include renditions of pieces by composers from Bach to Satie, as well as his own stellar acoustic and classical guitar compositions.

With Genesis, Steve's guitar playing produced some of the most memorable moments, from the sensitivity of his acoustic sound on "Horizons" and "Blood on the Rooftops" to the dramatic rock guitar solos of "Firth of Fifth" and "Fountain of Salmacis." As he embarked on his solo career he developed his exceptional range, pushing musical boundaries into exciting areas, inventing new sounds and also techniques such as "tapping." Steve’s solo career as well as his collaboration with fellow guitar icon Steve Howe in GTR, gained favorable momentum in the 1980’s. After GTR, Steve worked further with many renowned musicians such as Paul Carrick, Bonny Tyler, John Wetton and Brian May, who has credited Steve as an early influence. He went on record "Genesis Revisited" and even further back to his roots with Blues with a Feeling, whilst continuing to challenge his own "horizons" with an amazingly eclectic mix of sounds, genres and a sense of the exotic that excites his many followers to this day.

Recent albums have possessed a high level of sophistication, along with an ever-present powerful dynamic, from the dramatic and atmospheric darkness of "Darktown" and "Wild Orchids" to the colorful voyage through time and space of "To Watch the Storms." Steve’s live electric gigs take his fans on an extraordinary journey that embodies his Genesis days right through to the present, all woven together with his exceptionally unique and distinctive rock guitar sound. With a new album entitled, "Out of the Tunnel's Mouth," Steve is poised to continue his legacy of creating excitement through his music. His return to the NEARfest stage will be a fantastic journey; from classic tunes to Steve’s most recent material. A big NEARfest round of applause is in order for Steve Hackett and his band as they grace our stage on Friday, June 18th for an Alumni-Night aural feast.
Posted: 11.21 | More information |

Erin go pragh! Iona to play NEARfest 2010

NEARfest is proud to announce the addition of Iona to the 2010 lineup! Hailing from England, Celtic symphonic progressive rock band Iona was formed in 1989 by multi-instrumentalists David Fitzgerald and Dave Bainbridge and joined soon after by lead vocalist Joanne Hogg. The inspiration for the band and its name came from a visit that Fitzgerald made to the serene and beautiful Scottish island of Iona the year prior. By the time Iona released their self-titled debut album in 1990, Nick Beggs (bass), Fiona Davidson (Celtic harp), Peter Whitfield (strings), Troy Donockley (Uillean pipes) and Frank Van Essen (drums, violin) had joined the band.

In 1992, the band released "The Book of Kells," a concept album based on the legendary Irish tome . Terl Bryant took over on drums and percussion for this album after the departure of Frank Van Essen. Fitzgerald also left the band to pursue a degree in music. The band's third album, "Beyond These Shores" (1993), which included guest musician Robert Fripp, was loosely based on the voyage of St. Brendan. "Journey into the Morn" (1995) was a more straight-forward release inspired by the hymn "Be Thou My Vision," which bookends the album in Gaelic and features Máire Brennan, lead singer of Celtic/New Age band Clannad.

After two live albums, Bryant left the band and Van Essen returned to play drums on 2000's "Open Sky," which was followed in 2002 by a boxed set called "The River Flows," the first release on the band's own label. The box contains their then-out-of-print first three albums remastered, as well as a fourth disc of unreleased tracks. After six years without a new studio album, the band released the gorgeous "The Circling Hour" in 2006 as well as a 2-disc live DVD "Iona: Live in London," featuring a 5.1 Dolby Digital Surround mix.

Since then, the band has continued to play live shows across Europe to enthusiastic crowds. The band has also returned to the studio to begin work on a new album which will see the light in 2010 to coincide with their 20th anniversary. In helping to celebrate the band's milestone, NEARfest is very pleased to welcome Iona to the stage to treat us to their wonderful stylistic weave of Celtic music and symphonic rock.
Posted: 11.17 | More information |

NEARfest Sunday morning wake-up with Moraine

Just like their namesake (moraine - the result of glacial movement and consisting of jagged, angular rocks as well as smooth rounded boulders and flour like dust) Moraine, from Seattle, is a conglomeration not of rocks and dust and things but of progressive rock, Chinese folk, fractured bebop and plugged in power jazz all culminating in what Dennis Rea (LAND, Earthstar, Savant, Stackpole, Hector Zazou) describes as "heavy chamber music". Rea, whose guitar playing blends modern jazz, rock that pushes the limits, world music and experimental is joined by violinist Alicia Allen, reed player Jin DeJoie, bassist/baliset player Kevin Millard and drummer Stephen Cavit. The band cites numerous influences that help to create their sound including Mahavishnu Orchestra, King Crimson, Univers Zero, Dr. Nerve and traditional eastern music.

Expect to wake up with Moraine on Sunday morning with a set that will greet you with haunting melodies that live on the same stage with crushing riffs, improvisation, lush textured passages and some propulsive swing. So whether you are a fan of pure progressive rock or jazz or you are partial to a little headbanging mixed into you coffee be prepared to have your ears opened up to a tasty brew of great aural caffeine called Moraine.
Posted: 11.07 | More information |

Enter The Enid

NEARfest is proud to be able to present for the first time in the U.S, the enigma that is The Enid. Called by many as THE band that actually *did* 'Rock the Classics' at a time which saw the rise of Punk music in Britain, this band were bringing in audiences up and down the UK by the thousands compared to the few hundreds that the Sex Pistols were attracting. Yet outside the UK they were and staggeringly largely remain virtually unknown. “The biggest cult band in Europe,” “banned by Glastonbury” and “feared by record companies;” just some of what has been said of The Enid.

Formed in 1974 by keyboard player Robert John Godfrey, who eschewed a possible career as a concert pianist, The Enid fused rock based music with the power, dynamics and scale of symphonic classical music. Godfrey had stopped hanging around the Royal Festival Hall and started hanging around the Roundhouse, where he met and joined the young Barclay James Harvest, living and working with them over a three-year period in a farmhouse on the Yorkshire Moors. The Enid signed first to BUK records, a tiny label which was then a part of EMI, and in 1976 released their first album, "In the Region of the Summer Stars", based on the Tarot sequence and on the writings of Charles Williams. Comparisons to any other bands were pointless; Progressive rock it wasn't, although in many ways it was what prog rock should have been. The most "indie" of the "indie bands", The Enid and their fan base took direct control of all aspects of their career, from recording to mastering, artwork to distribution – decades before Marillion took credit for the same ideas.

With band leader Godfrey at the helm, current members Jason Ducker, Max Read and Dave Storey are ready to unleash their insanity onto the NEARfest stage. With no less than 12 albums under their belt, The Enid are poised to continue further into the 21st century, culminating with their introduction to the U.S. courtesy of your friends at NEARfest. Prepare for U.S. first timers, The Enid as they will perform for the NEARfest faithful.
Posted: 10.25 | More information |

The Pineapple Thief Cometh

Formed by Bruce Soord in 1999 and initially as a solo studio project, The Pineapple Thief has grown into a globally gigging outfit. With seven albums under their belt and legions of fans throughout the world, The Pineapple Thief is constantly redefining the boundaries of progressive music. From humble beginnings, their debut album "Abducting the Unicorn" rose from the ashes of Bruce’s former band, Vulgar Unicorn and was released on Cyclops Records. Encouraged by a positive review in a major Dutch publication, Bruce ventured back into the studio and released the follow up, "137" in 2001, with "Variations on a Dream" following in 2003. CD sales continued to grow and fans continued to clamor for live performances that led to the formation of a full touring band.

The band were performing regular shows across the UK and Europe after which two albums followed, "10 Stories Down" (2005) and "Little Man" (2006). During this period the band line up had shifted, creating the current line up of Bruce Soord, Jon Sykes, Keith Harrison and Steve Kitch. After delivering a special album to Cyclops to fulfill their contractual obligations ("What We Have Sown" in 2007) the band returned to the studio to record their seventh album, "Tightly Unwound’." This was the inaugural release on the Kscope label which has subsequently featured releases by Anathema, Lunatic Soul and Steven Wilson among others.

Since its release in 2008, Tightly Unwound marks a significant step forward in the band’s development and highlights the maturation of their songwriting style. Previous reviews have drawn comparisons to Porcupine Tree, Radiohead, Sigur Ros and Pink Floyd but Tightly Unwound proves that The Pineapple Thief have moved beyond these influences to create their own unique sound. Their live shows have quickly gained a reputation as some of the most exciting around, delivered with an intense level of energy and passion. With drummer Keith Harrison being the nephew of Three Friends’ Kerry Minnear, a family reunion will be in order, so please extend a warm NEARfest family welcome to The Pineapple Thief.

Posted: 09.15 | More information |

An Astral Event in Bethlehem

We are pleased to announce that Astra will be opening the 2010 edition of NEARfest. With their heads floating in the mist of Europe's original psychedelic and progressive eras, Astra brings their melodic sound, symphonic landscapes and cosmic atmospheres to the East. They began their space odyssey under the winter sun of San Diego, CA in the year 2001, and with the joining of new drummer/multi-instrumentalist David Hurley in 2006 and guitar wizard Brian Ellis, the planets aligned and Astra was complete. Already making a name for themselves on the West Coast, they’ve shared the stage with such like-minded and diverse acts as Dungen, Winter Flowers, Jennifer Gentle, Bigelf, and their good friends and San Diegan brethren Earthless, to name a few. The band released their debut album entitled "The Weirding" on Rise Above Records to rave reviews. Mellotron lovers unite, NEARfest attendees get ready to settle in for an astral experience and welcome Astra to our festival extended family.
Posted: 07.20 | More information |

Three Friends Take Their Rightful Place

NEARfest is honored to present as our 2010 Saturday Night headliner, Three Friends. This is why we maintain hope in our lives, the hope of experiencing the reemergence of Gary Green and two of his long time friends in a new band called Three Friends. This is not a Gentle Giant reunion, but a new band that will deliver faithful interpretations of the wonderful music of Gentle Giant and create new music as well. Kerry Minnear, Malcolm Mortimore and Gary along with four other friends in Roger Carey, Andy Williams, John Donaldson and Mick Wilson, complete the live lineup.

The Gentle Giant story is known to many of us, revered by us, and considering the relatively short active life span of the band, many progressive fans hold them closer to the heart than any other classic band. From the early days of Simon Dupree and the Big Sound right on up to "The Missing Piece"/"Civilian" era, Gentle Giant never stopped pushing the boundaries of what was considered progress in their music.

Please give a mammoth round of applause for Gary, Kerry, Malcolm and company as they present to us, the NEARfest faithful, an evening with Three Friends.

[Note: Since this announcement, Kerry Minnear has resigned from the band for personal reasons.]
Posted: 07.20 | More information |

Forgas Band Phenomena to Take the 2010 Stage

We are pleased to announce that France's Forgas Band Phenomena will grace the NEARfest stage in the 2010 edition. Drummer and composer Patrick Forgas has been releasing jazz-rock gems that showcase his compositional and and arranging skills for over 30 years. Forgas, who has been hailed as "the French answer to the Canterbury scene" since he first burst upon the scene in 1977 with his "Cocktail" album, will present songs from his fourth album, Axis of Madness as well as others from his catalog. In addition to the many Canterbury comparisons, also heard is a commonality with the band that Frank Zappa led with George Duke & Jean-Luc Ponty; great tunes and arrangements in a fusion style with excellent 'jazz' soloing. The group perform music that combines the most attractive aspects of jazz and rock composition with inspired solos. The quality of the music and performances is obvious from the first note and we are pleased that it isn't only us who noticed; press has been unbelievably enthusiastic towards this group's music! Please extend a NEARfest handshake to Cuneiform's very own, Forgas Band Phenomena.
Posted: 07.07 | More information |

A Big 'Thank You' from Ray, Jim, and Kevin

Where to begin? With the first of many NEARfests under our wings, one thing is apparent: It ain't easy puttin' this thing together!!! A Salud to Chad and Rob for all the wonderful years of hard work and great festivals. A gargantuan thanks to you, the audience, the music fan, the beer lover for helping bring such a fine festival to fruition once again, we do it for you, for anyone who is passionate about their music. All the bands deserve a big hug for making the first NEARfest under the new guys, a rousing success. So many performances not soon forgotten, yet it's time to look to next year, which brings me to part two of this prose; NEARfest 2010 will be held on June 18th, 19th and 20th, 2010 - same great venue, same great people. Keep an eye out for more information, there's even a band announcement imminent. We look forward to seeing you all back with us next year. It wouldn't be the same without you.
Posted: 07.01 | More information |

Annie Haslam to display her artwork

Once again, Annie Haslam and her wonderful artwork will be gracing the artist's gallery. Stop by and say hello, check out her stunning work and grab one to take home. She will be here for the entire weekend, don't miss the chance to stop by.

Annie will fill the void left by Mark Wilkinson who cannot attend this, his first year as the official NEARfest artist. His work will don our t-shirts, glasses and the program. He is extremely upset that he cannot attend, but he remains committed to NEARfest. This from Mark himself: "It's a frigging pain of the highest order as it would have been a great lineup to see apart from anything else - and also my first year as designer of the Poster/Logo - just dreadfully bad timing for me! Exceptional circumstances this year with what I am involved in...NEXT year will be so much easier for me, I so sorry Ray but it must be this way".

We share in his disappointment but welcome his beautiful artwork for '09 edition of NEARfest. We welcome Annie with open arms and support Mark's decision.

See you all in a month.
Posted: 05.25 | More information |

NEARfest '09 is sold out!

NEARfest is proud to announce that we have sold out the '09 edition for all three days. Many thanks to all the folks who braved the elements and made it to the box office; it is always great to meet up with you all. Thanks also to the throngs who endured the online and phone services. A big thanks goes out to our Patrons who put their trust in our ability to bring everyone a fantastic festival. We can't do it without you folks in the prog/art rock community; we appreciate your undying support. On behalf of Jim, Kevin and I, thanks to Chad and Rob for entrusting us with their baby, we are quite happy with the adoption.

See you all in 10 weeks!
Posted: 04.08 | More information |

Trettioåriga Kriget joins the lineup for 2009

Trettioåriga Kriget (Thirty Years War) was formed in 1970 in Saltsjöbaden, a seaside resort southeast of Stockholm. In just a few short years, the band developed a sound that set them apart from the mainstream of Swedish rock. Early in 1974, the band struck a record deal with CBS and released their self-titled debut album. This was followed in 1976 with their symphonic masterpiece, "Krissång," a progressive rock tour de force with the entire second side of the LP devoted to the "Krissång 2" suite. Despite gaining international praise from the subsequent tour, CBS dropped the band and they signed with a small Swedish label for the release of "Hej på er" in 1978. The band continued until mid-1980 when they decided to call it a day. However, in 2002 most of the classic lineup reunited to try out new material. "Elden av år" was released in 2004 and immediate burst the band back on to the prog rock radar, even garnering them an invite to ProgDay 2004, where they dazzled the audience at Storybook Farm. Since then, the band has continued to play live and produced excellent albums, including 2007's "I början och slutet."

After the void left in this year's lineup by the unfortunately departure of Supersister, Trettioåriga Kriget has accepted our offer to perform at NEARfest '09. We could not be more excited to welcome them to the NEARfest stage. Please help us welcome Trettioåriga Kriget to the show!
Posted: 02.16 | More information |

Supersister forced to back out of NEARfest '09

It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of this unfortunate circumstance regarding Supersister. Below is what was passed on to us from the band...



All of us at NEARfest are behind Ron 100% and we hope to have
Supersister grace our stage in the future. We thank you all for your understanding in this matter.
Posted: 02.16 | More information |

NEARfest Friday: Van der Graaf Generator and the Steve Hillage Band

NEARfest, in conjunction with Progressive Arts, are very pleased to announce an amazing double bill for Friday June 19th, the opening night of the 2009 edition of the festival: Van der Graaf Generator and the Steve Hillage Band! Both bands are a supreme rarity in the United States. In fact, Van der Graaf Generator has only ever played one concert in the United States (New York, October 1976). Steve Hillage, while known to break out his solo band from time to time, is usually busy with his ambient dance outfit, System 7, or the mighty Gong, therefore this appearance by the Steve Hillage Band is a true treat for the eyes and ears!

Remember that the window to sign up for Patron tickets for NEARfest 2009 opens this Saturday, January 24th, at 12:00 noon ET. Once you are emailed to select our Patron seats, you will be given the chance to reserve the same seats for this outstanding Friday night concert!

View Patron Program details

Friday night ticket prices:
Pit - $60.00
Orch - $55.00
Grand Tier - $50.00
Balcony - $45.00

Van der Graaf Generator

Strangers to few and loved by many, Van der Graaf Generator’s career dates back to 1967 with their first album, “The Aerosol Grey Machine,” surfacing in 1969. Soon after the band was signed to Charisma Records and became famous label mates with Genesis and Lindisfarne. This phase of the band defined their sound, a brooding brand of rock mixed with classical and jazz influences, and produced such classics as “He to He, Who Am the Only One” and “Pawn Hearts” and solidified what some consider the classic lineup of Peter Hammill, Guy Evans, Hugh Banton and David Jackson. After a short hiatus, the four reunited and produced three additional essential albums in “Godbluff,” “Still Life,” and “World Record.” After a lineup change, a name change and one more album the band split once again.

In 2004, Hammill, Evans, Banton and Jackson came together once again and resurrected Van der Graaf Generator. They released “Present” in April 2005, a double CD of new material, and played several European concerts to rabid audiences. In 2006, the band reduced itself to the trio of Hammill, Evans, and Banton. After some live dates in the summer of 2007, the band released “Trisector” in March 2008. Both new studio albums live up to the band’s classic discography and prove that Van der Graaf Generator is not only back, but back with a vengeance.

Steve Hillage Band

Steve Hillage, best known in art rock circles as a masterful progressive and fusion guitar player, began his career in a blues rock band in the late ‘60s called Uriel. After the dissolution of Uriel, the remainder of the band forming Egg, Hillage began work on his own material and was soon signed to Deram Records. He soon formed Khan with Nick Greenwood of the Crazy World of Arthur Brown which produced the excellent, “Space Shanty,” in 1972. Later, after a brief stint with Kevin Ayers’ Decadance, Hillage joined Gong in 1973. This classic incarnation of Gong released the beloved “Radio Gnome” trilogy, made up of “Flying Tea Pot,” “Angel’s Egg,” and “You.”

In 1975, Hillage left Gong to focus on his solo work and released his first album, “Fish Rising.” His debut has become something of a legendary progressive rock guitar album. Its follow-ups, “L” and “Motivation Radio” and “Green,” are also held in very high regard by fans of rock, fusion and space rock. Hillage later experimented with both punk and ambient music, with the latter likely leading him to the form his groove-laden ambient project, System 7.

NEARfest 2009 will be treated to a double shot of Steve Hillage, not only will he play this rare solo show with the Steve Hillage Band, but he will join Daevid Allen and the rest of Gong on Saturday night! Friday night’s Steve Hillage Band show is a truly once-in-a-lifetime event and is sure to be a mind-blowing experience as Steve and company plan to rip through a lot of classic Hillage solo material.

Posted: 01.21 | More information |

A Gong to ring out at NEARfest

NEARfest ’09 proudly presents as its Saturday night headliner, the legendary GONG.
The Gong history is a long, complex journey, touching upon five decades of activity in
numerous incarnations and offshoot projects. The journey began in 1966 when Daevid
Allen envisions himself on stage in front of a large rock festival audience and
experiencing an intense connection with them. It is with this vision that Daevid would
embark on a well traveled musical path that continues on today. Daevid's first attempt
to manifest this vision resulted in the formation of Soft Machine in October 1966. In
retrospect he felt that the band lacked the spiritual integrity that Allen was looking for,
but it did provide the circumstances for his first performances with Gilli Smyth as the
'electric poets'. After ending his involvement with Soft Machine in 1967, Allen spent
time in Paris experimenting with his guitar and some unusual effects creating what was
to become known as his Glissando guitar sound.

By July of 1968, after many experiment collaborations, Allen wasted no time in pulling
together a team of virtuoso musicians to form the first proper Gong band in Paris and
began recording in September. From that point on, Gong begins its involvement with
many progressive musicians such as Pip Pyle, Kevin Ayers, Pierre Moerlen, Bill Bruford
and Steve Hillage. By this time the 1970’s are in full stride and Gong in one
incarnation or another, are creating seminal classic albums such as Continental Circus,
The Radio Gnome Invisible, Pt 1: Flying Teapot, Angel’s Egg, You and Shamal. The
many musicians that have been passed through the band have channeled countless off
shoot projects and bands such as Planet Gong, Mother Gong, New York Gong and
Paragong. Two Thousand and Nine finds Gong consisting of seven members, five of
which are heralded as original members: Daevid Allen, Steve Hillage, Gilli Smyth,
Miquette Giraudy and Mike Howlett are the core originals, augmented by Chris Taylor
and Theo Travis. NEARfest ’09 is beyond honored to be able to welcome to the
NEARfest Saturday night stage, the legendary Gong.


Posted: 01.10 | More information |

D.F.A. to return to NEARfest

NEARfest '09 is happy to announce that D.F.A. will be gracing the NEARfest stage next summer. The band has very strong ties to NEARfest, feeling that they were catapulted into the progressive world with their 2000 appearance. When they approached us with their desire to perform in '09, we declined so as not to disrupt FMPM's plans. It was their love for NEARfest that kept the band motivating us towards accepting them for '09.

Formed in Verona during 1991 around Alberto De Grandis, drummer, occasional vocalist and main composer, and bassist Luca Baldassari, D.F.A. was initially an instrumental keyboard-led trio, a formula that evolved over the years, first with the arrival of guitarist Silvio Minella in 1993, and two years later with the introduction of vocal parts in the compositions, following the release of a demo tape entitled "Trip On Metro." Later in 1995, Alberto Bonomi replaced the original keyboard player and D.F.A.found its definitive shape. Bonomi was soon to become an essential creative force in the band alongside De Grandis, co-writing most of the material with him. The new quartet made its live debut in January 1996, and soon afterwards embarked on the recording of their first proper album, "Lavori In Corso" ("Works in Progress").

With their second work, "Duty Free Area" in 1999, D.F.A. broadened their musical palette with new sounds, especially in the keyboard department, putting their mark on the progressive world. The band's watershed appearance at NEARfest in June 2000 was documented on a best-selling live CD. Meanwhile, D.F.A.started work on their next album, aiming to further establish the unique D.F.A.identity. The resulting album entitled, "4TH," (MoonJune) was released to both critical and mass acclaim making many best of 2008 lists. NEARfest '09 is extremely pleased to hand the stage to D.F.A. once again.
Posted: 12.08 | More information |

Mexico's Cabezas de Cera to Open NEARfest '09

Well folks, it's been a long time coming, but here we are with an announcement of avant proportions. NEARfest '09 is proud to present Mexico's Cabezas de Cera as the opening act for NEARfest '09. Along its path, Cabezas de Cera (CDC, Candle-Wax Heads) has gone through various phases: as a trio (1995-1997) with Cristóbal Pliego on the bass and brothers Mauricio and Francisco Sotelo on the electric guitar and the drums respectively. In 1998 CDC became a quartet with Ramsés Luna; in this way, CDC close their first cycle. Finally, in 2000 CDC consolidates as a band formed by Mauricio Sotelo on the strings, Ramsés Luna on the winds, Francisco Sotelo on drums and Edgar Arrellín as the sound designer.
CDC grounds its compositions on a diversity of styles and contemporary genres. However, it is in this creation of unique metal instruments, as well as their extraordinary execution and experimentation where CDC finds a rich balance between acoustic and electronic styles. A Cebezas De Cera concert is full of emotions and colors, which seems from time to time to evoke the endeavor of forging metals in an atmosphere of strength and fire. The compositions encompass experimental music, jazz, world music and Mexican popular music, but they find in rock and improvisation, the liberty to merge these sounds into a unique style. Pat Mastelotto of King Crimson fame states: "At a time when so many are sounding the same its a delight to hear a band as unique as Cabezas de Cera".
With albums such as Un Segundo, MetalMúsica, Fractal Sónico and their latest Hécho en México, live, and countless festival performances under their collective belt, CDC is on the forefront of the current avant/world/jazz metal scene. If instruments such as The Charrófono, Jarana Prisma, Tricordio, Wind Midi, Chapman Stick, Handsonic and Alto Sax stir your musical soul, then prepare for a unique journey and join us as we welcome to the NEARfest '09 stage, Cabezas de Cera.
Posted: 11.22 | More information |

Dutch masters Supersister to light up NEARfest '09

NEARfest '09 is pleased to announce that Supersister has signed on for Sunday evening's #3 slot. The band will be playing their 40th anniversary reunion gig in the United States at NEARfest '09. While in school in 1968 they first formed under the moniker Sweet Ok Sister, but soon after changed their name with the departure of their first singer. Once under the name Supersister, the band took a more serious approach to music making and gave us some of the finest progressive music from the era. Whether it was their debut "Present from Nancy" or "To the Highest Bidder," "Pudding En Gisteren" and "Iskander" the band made music that was well respected then and still is to this day. The band walked a line between Canterbury and Psychedelic with some intelligent pop thrown in for good measure. Robert Jan Stips (keys, vocals), Ron van Eck (bass) and Marco Vrolijk (drums), will regroup for NEARfest '09 although it will be minus Sacha van Geest (flute) who unexpectedly passed away in 2001. The band has a new flautist who will step in for the event to make the show complete. Recently the band had their song "She Was Naked" featured in the 2007 Joy Division biopic "Control." With this nod, the band have recently found themselves in the spotlight once again with a new wave of interest both at home in The Hague and abroad. So get ready to welcome SUPERSISTER as we shine the spotlight on "The love child of Frank Zappa and Caravan" at NEARfest '09!
Posted: 10.14 | More information |

NEARfest Takes a Quantum Leap

The NEARfest New Guard are proud to announce the appearance of Space Rockers, Quantum Fantay. Hailing from Belgium, Quantum Fantay begins when two crazy friends, Pieter Van den Broeck (Pete Mush) and Wouter De Geest (Jaro), combine their musical visions and creativity. The result is the music of Quantum Fantay and their brand of liquid space rock. Drawing influences from, without being derivative of, bands such as Ozric Tentacles, Hawkwind and Hidria Spacefolk, Quantum Fantay create soundscapes and rhythms that wholly draw in the listener. Using hypnotic waves, atmospheric soundscapes, psychedelic synths, haunting melodies, woody groovy basslines with energy driven and experimental drums, a Quantum gig is a show to remember. To make the band live breathable and even more interesting the two neighbors attracted drummer Gino Verhaegen, guitar player Dario Frodo and flute-player Karel Slabbaert (Charles Sla). Quantum Fantay, a name that came out of a typing error for the word fantasy, was on it's way.
The year 2005 saw them release the album, "Agapanthustherra" to critical acclaim while 2007 saw the release of "Ugisiunsi," their second studio album recorded at "Pete's Mushroom Land" recording studio. This creation was a step further in terms of production and playing.

2008 has been an exciting year for the band as their first album has been re-released and a new live album titled, "From Herzberg to Living Room," are added to their catalog and recordings for the next studio album are fully on. We here at NEARfest are thrilled to present as our Sunday morning surprise, the Space Rockings of Quantum Fantay.
Posted: 09.18 | More information |

Beardfish swim into Bethlehem

NEARfest '09 is very excited to bring to the NEARfest stage, Beardfish. Hailing from Sweden, Beardfish are a prime example of an archetype of an exceptionally expressive prog rock act. Building on the strength and power of previous releases such as "The Sane Day" and "Sleeping in Traffic: Part One," their current album, "Sleeping in Traffic: Part Two," features quotes from almost all eras of music history, blending them into an unmistakable sound. Beardfish's music has depth and substance without overtaxing its listeners with overly intricate structures. A distinct sense of Zappa-esque humor pervades Beardfish's music and lyrics.

Mike Portnoy of Dream Theater said about Beardfish: "Sweden's Beardfish are my favorite "new" band with an "old" sound. Utilizing all of the classic styles and sounds of the original progessive rock bands of the 70's (Mellotron, Hammond organ, Leslies, clean guitars, dry organic drums, etc.), these guys are making music for the folks who truly miss the classic bands that started this whole genre." Prepare yourselves to welcome Beardfish to the NEARfest '09 stage.
Posted: 09.18 | More information |

An Oblivion Sun to Rise in Bethlehem

NEARfest '09 is proud to bring to the big stage, local favorites, Oblivion Sun. Born out of the ashes of the seminal progressive favorite Happy the Man and Baltimore-based heroes Illuvatar, Oblivion Sun brings together long-time bandmates Stan Whitaker and Frank Wyatt into the next phase of their musical partnership. With the additions of Bill Plummer on keyboards, Chris Mack on drums, and Dave DeMarco on bass, Oblivion Sun has created a powerful, dynamic sound that aims to satisfy fans of many musical forms. If the first batch of Oblivious Sun tunes are any indication, this is a band that's not afraid to get downright funky at times and throw down some serious rock grooves and even improv! Expect a good deal of vocal content as well, and fear not, this is still progressive rock and fans of Happy the Man's lush arrangements will not be disappointed! With a sophomore effort in the works, the band expects to eclipse the critical success of their self-titled debut. As a live act, they are nothing short of jaw dropping, their gigs meet with the highest reviews. We are very honored to have Oblivion Sun rise at NEARfest '09.
Posted: 08.08 | More information |

PFM to headline NEARfest '09

Quintessential: the essence of a thing in its purest form. The perfect word to describe NEARfest's first band announcement for 2009, the mighty PFM. The beauty and power of the music from this classic Italian band, along with contemporaries Banco and Le Orme, started what had become known as the classic Italian prog movement. Premiata Forneria Marconi was officially formed in Milan in 1970 when the members of Quelli met Mauro Pagani from the group Dalton. Pagani helped the group expand their sound to include violin and flute. By this time they were already highly experienced musicians and easily able to play the kind of complex progressive heavy rock played by the leading English and American groups. With such classic Italian albums as "Storia di un minuto," "Per un Amico" and "L'isola di niente" as well as later works such as "Chocolate Kings" and "Jet Lag," PFM cemented themselves a place in progressive rock history. With core members Franz Di Cioccio, Franco Mussida, and Patrick Djivas, PFM remain a highly sought after live act. Their last two albums, "Dracula" and "Stati di Imaginazione" are complete returns to their progressive ethos and are essential recordings. Their energy and intensity are legendary, almost mythical, which makes their agreement to perform for the "new guard's" first NEARfest an absolute honor. NEARfest is extremely proud to welcome PFM as a headliner for NEARfest '09.
Posted: 07.28 | More information |

Late Night After-Show Entertainment

Here is the official rundown on the after-show entertainment at NEARfest X. All happenings will held at the Comfort Suites hotel bar on 3rd Street in Bethlehem and completely open to anyone. First off, Tom Gagliardi and the world-famous Gagliarchives Radio Show will broadcast live from the hotel bar on both Friday and Saturday nights. Each night will be streamed online at Aural Moon (www.gagliarchives.com, www.auralmoon.com) beginning at 9:00pm ET.

The NJ ProgHouse After Parties will then kick off at 12:00 am. NEARfest attendees have plenty of time to hit the meet-and-greets after the headliners and not miss the performances. The schedule is as follows:

Friday: Laura Meade featuring John Galgano (IZZ) (www.myspace.com/laurammeade)
Saturday: Might Could (www.mightcould.net)
Sunday: Mr. A's Happy Fun Sing-Along and 10th Anniversary Drink-a-Thon

Hope you can join us!
Posted: 05.26 | More information |

Fish to feature "Clutching at Stars" exclusively for NEARfest

In the wake of NEARfest stepping up to sponsor him for his 2008 North American tour, Fish has offered to bring his critically-acclaimed "Clutching at Stars" performance to the NEARfest stage. This encore performance celebrating the 20th anniversary of Marillion's classic "Clutching at Straws" album, a fan-favorite and the last one featuring Fish, is a NEARfest-exclusive! The Clutching at Stars tour did not reach North American shores in 2007, so this is sure to be a very special show. Tickets are still available for the show at https://ztickets.lehigh.edu, which is on Friday, June 20th starting at 7:00pm with Synergy as the opening act.
Posted: 05.15 | More information |

Passing the Torch: NEARfest announces new management

NEARfest is happy to announce Jim Robinson, Ray Loboda and Kevin Feeley as the successors to the management of the festival. In January, co-founders Chad Hutchinson and Rob LaDuca made public their plans to retire from the festival after 10 great years at the helm. Following the 2008 event, Jim, Ray and Kevin will take over as the new guard. NEARfest will carry on with the same diversity that has made it so successful over the past decade. With the changeover will also come new ideas to help move NEARfest forward into its next phase.

Jim Robinson grew up playing various musical instruments, including trumpet, french horn and bass - even taking lessons from Dave LaRue (Steve Morse Band, Dixie Dregs) at one point. Jim founded the New Jersey Proghouse in 1999 (then called the Central New Jersey Music Showcase) after being inspired by his attendance at the very first NEARfest that same year. Since then, Jim has teamed up with Ray and Kevin among others, to develop the NJ Proghouse into a successful concert series. Since 1999, Jim as been the "official" head-cracker at NEARfest, but in recent years has assumed an important role in transportation. Jim's relationships with both domestical bands and labels, as well as running the NJ Proghouse and being a member of the ProgDay band commitee for three years, has given him a vast amount of experience on which he can build on with his new role with NEARfest.

Ray Loboda grew up in the '70s listening to progressive rock music and emulating his heroes in cover bands. Ray has been a NEARfest-goer since 1999 and never looked back. He met his good friend and cohort Jim Robinson at the NEARfest ticket day luncheon in 2000 and the two formed a strong bond in their common loves for prog rock, prog metal and especially Kansas. Ray and his wife Noreen supported the NJ Proghouse for a few years before becoming members of what Ray eventually donned the "Staph." Ray has forged many important friendships over the years with the likes of The Flower Kings, Riverside, Knight Area and echolyn, not to mention many record executives and band managers. Ray was also a member of the NEARfest transportation crew and the ProgDay band committee with Jim. Ray's business sense and PR skills will serve him well as he steps into the NEARfest management fold.

Kevin Feeley is instantly recognized by his snowy white hair and
beard. Kevin has been the production manager for NEARfest since 2004 and can be seen pacing the stage with his headset often during the weekend. Kevin's professional background as both an audio engineer and a production manager allow him to run the stage at NEARfest as a well-oiled machine. In the past, Kevin has worked live concert and corporate events such as Grammy-winning artists like Steel Pulse and Spyro Gyra, the JVC Jazz Festival in Europe with Roberta Flack, the Bush/Quayle Inaugural and the first Clinton/Gore Inaugural. On a fan
level, Kevin has been supporting progressive music since the early 70s by attending such shows as ELP's "Brain Salad Surgery Tour" and Yes' "Close to the Edge" tour. Kevin is a member of the NJ Proghouse Staph, providing audio and production services and equipment. Kevin also met his long-time girlfriend Suzan Picard at the smolderingly hot NEARfest 2000 preshow while watching Echolyn perform. In his four years with NEARfest, Kevin has brought may great ideas to the show helping it to become the smooth operation that it today. He also found us our great video technician Matthew Walker. Kevin's knowledge of the inner workings of the technical side of the festival make him an easy choice to help carry on the flame. And speaking of flames, he also makes fantastic hot wings.

Congratulations to Jim, Ray and Kevin. Along with Rob and Chad, we are sure the progressive rock faithful with you the best and will show you support in your new roles with NEARfest.
Posted: 03.16 | More information |

Fish to headline Friday night

For 27 years, Scottish vocalist Fish has been an icon of progressive rock. He became
widely known in the early 1980s as the lead singer for British then-neo-prog upstarts
Marillion. With Fish at the helm (1981-1987), the band released four classic albums:
"Script for a Jester's Tear," "Fugazi," "Misplaced Childhood" and "Clutching at Straws."
Beginning with 1990's "Vigil in a Wilderness of Mirrors," Onkel Fish (as he is
affectionately known by his fans in The Company fanclub) has gone on to carve out a
very successful solo career continuing through to the present with his latest offering,
"13th Star." The new album sees Fish return to form with plenty of prog rock and
experimental elements, poignant lyrics, and powerful vocals, which are exemplified in
songs like "Arc of the Curve" and "Circle Line." A dynamic and emotive frontman, Fish is
sure to captivate the NEARfest crowd with his fiery passion and intense personality.
We are honored to host the legendary Fish as the headliner for Friday night.
Posted: 02.05 | More information |

Chad and Rob to retire after 10 years of NEARfest

NEARfest co-founders Chad Hutchinson and Rob LaDuca announce their retirement from the festival organization after this year's 10th anniversary NEARfest X celebration, largely due to significantly increased family and professional obligations. Arrangements are well underway to transfer the entire non-profit festival organization and its crucial diverse band selection ethic into the capable hands of others already well-established in the progressive rock community. It is certain that NEARfest "Mark II" will have the same wide spread of prog rock subgenres as always.

Rob states, "It's been a pleasure bringing the best in progressive and eclectic music to the NEARfest audience for ten long (or is that short?!) years. The demands of single fatherhood and my academic position at Michigan State have left little time for NEARfest over the past couple of years. My time to investigate the torrent of new releases in all prog subgenres has evaporated, and in what little music-listening time that sporadically presents itself, I've been consistently reaching for old favorites. I feel that all of the NEARfests have had stresses and joys, and they all have left an indelible mark; I'll never forget any of them or the many people involved... artists, volunteers, and audience alike. However now I find it's definitely time to focus my energies more closely on my children as they enter their teenage years, and secondarily on my teaching and research career."

Chad says, "It has been a great ride and it is very hard to believe that it’s been 10 years already. In that time, I’ve not only gotten married to Cheryl, but now have two wonderful little boys, Liam and Cameron. The years running NEARfest have been pretty amazing. Looking back on it, I'm still in a bit of disbelief when I think that we’ve hosted the likes of Keith Emerson, Steve Hackett, Camel, Banco and, this year, Peter Hammill on our stage, not to mention being part of the the reformations of Anglagard, Happy the Man, Nektar, FM and Discipline. I am realizing how many wonderful people we have come in contact with over our tenure, from the musicians, the crew, the Zoellner staff, the local businesses... to Roger Dean, Paul Whitehead and Mark Wilkinson... to of course all the people who have supported the festival by buying tickets year after year. We've had a lot of fun and learned a lot in 10 years, and with that, when to refocus and concentrate on other parts of our lives, like our families and our careers."

Though we are both leaving our official posts with NEARfest, Rob and I will provide whatever assistance we can as the festival moves forward. An announcement will be made in the coming months with regard to the new organizers."

Thank you to all of the musicians, festival staff, and attendees for all of the wonderful memories over the past 10 years. We will see you in June... one more time.
Posted: 01.12 | More information |

Patron Program sign-up window and ticket prices announced

The sign-up window for the NEARfest X Patron Program will be from Sunday, January 13th at 12:00pm ET to Tuesday, January 15th at 9:00pm ET. The price for a Patron ticket will be $250. This special price gives you your choice of seats (up to four) in accordance with your lottery selection number. In addition, the different between the face value of your ticket and the Patron price can be written off on your US taxes as a donation to a non-profit organization.

Details of the Patron Program are available here.

General ticket sales will be begin on Saturday, March 29th at 10:00am ET. Please note that this is one hour earlier than in the past! Prices for the Friday night portion of NFX and the weekend itself can be viewed on the general ticket sales page.

Thank you again in advance for your continued support and good luck!
Posted: 01.04 | More information |

Peter Hammill to perform at NEARfest X!

We are extremely honored to announce that Peter Hammill will perform as a solo artist on the Saturday slate of NEARfest X. Over his nearly forty year career, Hammill has recorded numerous solo albums featuring his unique and emotive vocal style and thoughtfully penetrating lyrics probing all aspects of the human condition. Whether performing solo or with his famed group Van Der Graaf Generator, Hammill presents an emotional depth and range that is unparalleled in contemporary music.

Hammill’s 100-minute set will be sure to feature songs from the breadth of his vibrant and iconoclastic career. With hundreds of songs in his repertoire, no two shows are ever alike. As it has been ten years since Hammill has graced a stateside stage, be sure not to miss his performance at the tenth anniversary NEARfest!

* Peter Hammill's performance is pending an expected successful visa application.
Posted: 12.19 | More information |

French fusion-metallers Mörglbl to make Sunday wakeup call at NEARfest X

Mörglbl is a blazing fusion trio from France featuring Christophe Godin on guitar and Ivan Rougny on bass. The band gained worldwide acclaim for their intriguing amalgam of jazz and metal fused together with a strong dose of Zappa-esque humor on their first two albums, "Ze Mörglbl Trio" (1998) and "Bienvenue a Mörglbl Land" (1999). The band was formed in 1996 when Godin decided to put together an instrumental fusion rock band. After meeting Jean Pierre Frelezeau (drums) and Ivan Rougny (bass), they decided to work together on the project. After disbanding in 2000, Godin one CD with metal band GNO and became a worldwide in demand clinician. Ivan toured with fusion guitarist Cyril Achard and Yngwie Malmsteen's drummer Mike Terrana, as well as rai star Cheb Bilal. In 2004, Godin started his first solo project, named Metal Kartoon, and asked Jean Pierre and Ivan to be part of the band. He also released one cd and toured Europe with jazz guitar legend Pierrejean Gaucher (“2G” Nocturne). The band continued to work together eventually releasing the stellar "Grötesk" on Free Electric Sound in 2007. The new album has much cross-genre appeal, and fans of shred and fusion Gods like Allan Holdsworth, Steve Vai or Freak Kitchen's Mattias IA Eklundh will find much to sink their teeth into on Sunday morning.
Posted: 12.03 | More information |

Radio Massacre International plugs into NFX

As one of the premier electronic bands performing today, England’s Radio Massacre International has a long history of playing "in the moment" and is capable of just about anything. After 15 years and more than 25 albums, the band is continues to look over the horizon to broaden their craft. Their latest release, "Rain Falls in Grey" (Cuneiform) is "a prog album for those who get itchy at the thought of electronic music." A tribute to former Pink Floyd leader Syd Barrett, the album shows them adapting to a rock band format using the spirit of Syd to channel one of the best albums in their catalog. Having first performed in the USA at ProgWest in 2002, the buzz resulted in three performances at The Gatherings Concert Series in Philadelphia. Their rendition of "Rain Falls in Grey," performed in November 2007 while at Orion Studios, left the audience stunned; unaware that such power could exist within electronic music. RMI uses an arsenal of analog equipment, ranging from Moogs to Mellotrons to sequencers to Fender Rhodes, to create their sonic blanket of sound. RMI promises to present a very special show to the NEARfest audience and we are very excited to feature them at NFX.
Posted: 11.19 | More information |

Synergy® to open 3-day NEARfest Weekend

Synthesizer pioneer Larry Fast will open NEARfest on Friday, June 20th performing as his one-man electronic project, Synergy®. Classic Synergy albums such as "Electronic Realizations for Rock Orchestra," "Cords," and "Games" are landmarks in electronic music and remain a benchmark for the genre today. This will mark the second live Synergy show *ever* and the first since 2002's headlining slot at the Alfa Centauri festival in Holland, and much longer for the United States, as Synergy live performances have historically been very rare. Larry is no stranger to NEARfest. He gave his "Prog 101" lecture in 1999, was part of the full Nektar reunion in 2002, and performed with the Tony Levin Band in 2006. During the years in between, Larry could be spotted in the crowd enjoying the show and mingling with fans. In honor of our 10th anniversary, have been able to talk Larry into dusting off his synthesizers, laptops and other various electronic devices to bring Synergy to the stage. This will be a very special and very exclusive performance and We are truly honored to present Synergy in 2008.

Also, in celebration of our 10th year, NEARfest will officially be a three-day event. Details to follow!
Posted: 10.16 | More information |

Banco to make grand return at NEARfest X

Without a doubt one of the most beloved performances in the history of NEARfest was the 2001 appearance of veteran Italian symphonic prog maestros Banco del Mutuo Soccorso. Led by the keyboard wizardry of Vittorio Nocenzi and the majestic vocals of the inimitable Francesco DiGiacomo, Banco held court for over two hours, earning three encores for their deeply emotionally stirring performance of songs from masterpiece albums such as "Darwin", "Banco del Mutuo Soccorso", and "Io Sono Natio Libero". The intervening years have done nothing but increase the legend of Banco's first NEARfest appearance, with a strong sentiment within the prog scene that the band should return to help celebrate the tenth anniversary of NEARfest. We are delighted to report that the ink is now dry on their contract, and that Banco will be making their third ever US appearance as Sunday night headliner at NEARfest 2008!!
Posted: 10.12 | More information |

Liquid Tension Experiment to headine Saturday night in 2008

We are very pleased to announce the Saturday night headliner for NEARfest X – Liquid Tension Experiment! The supergroup consisting of Mike Portnoy, John Petrucci, Jordan Rudess, and Tony Levin are reconvening and preparing to tear the roof off of Zoellner Arts Center next June. Portnoy and Petrucci are founding members of progressive metal’s 5-headed monster, Dream Theater, and have won accolades from fans and critics alike for their prowess on the drum kit and guitar, respectively. Rudess is was previously known for his blazing keyboard work with the Dixie Dregs and the Rudess/Morgenstein Project and joined Dream Theater officially after the second Liquid Tension Experiment album sessions. Tony Levin needs no introduction – Stick and bass maestro, two-time NEARfest alum, and play with everyone from King Crimson to Peter Gabriel to Yes to Sarah McLachlan. Liquid Tension Experiment’s two studio albums, Liquid Tension Experiment (1998) and Liquid Tension Experiment 2 (1999), are filled to the brim with everything from blazing, chops-laden sonic attacks (“Paradigm Shift”) to melodic anthems (“When the Water Breaks”) to humorous jams (“Chris and Kevin’s Excellent Adventure”). The improvisational nature in the writing sessions permitted the band to stretch out to many different influences, including rock, metal, prog, funk, blues and even ragtime. It is a great honor to host this ensemble of legendary, virtuoso players on the NEARfest stage for our 10th anniversary.
Posted: 10.04 | More information |

Koenji Hyakkei to open NEARfest X

Headed by vocalist/composer/drummer Tatsuya Yoshida (Ruins, Samla Mammas Manna),and possessing a three-woman/two-man band lineup, the Japanese ensemble Koenji Hyakkei has been described as a mutant cross between Area, Emerson Lake and Palmer, Deus Ex Machina, Kenso and Magma. The band have recently released their fourth album "Angherr Shisspa", their first domestic release in the USA (on Skin Graft Records). It has been compared to Stereolab, Yes, Queen, Melt-Banana and "something so far off-Broadway it's on the moon". Koenji Hyakkei explodes with glittery keyboard lines, speedy bass/drum workouts, emotive reed respites, and operatic female vocals that take the listener from sheer exuberance to absolute apocalypse. All of this music is performed with superhuman technique in extremely catchy, complex arrangements, with an insane amount of passion and energy. Is it prog-punk? Is it zeuhl-fusion? Be sure not to miss Koenji Hyakkei’s opening set of unclassifiable, energetic music at NEARfest X!
Posted: 07.26 | More information |

echolyn returns to help celebrate NEARfest X

We are very happy to announce that echolyn will be returning to the NEARfest stage to help us celebrate our 10th anniversary. echolyn combines superb musicianship and songwriting with dynamic arrangements and dense multipart vocal harmonies making them a favorite across the vast progressive rock fanbase. Formed in 1991, the band self-released two studio albums and one EP before being picked up my a major label for 1995's "as the world." The band split in the fall of 1995 only to reform in 2000, returning with the excellent "Cowboy Poems Free" and a blazing (in more ways than one) performance at the NEARfest 2000 preshow in Allentown, PA. In 2002, the band was invited to play NEARfest-proper and debuted their masterpiece, the 49-minute "mei", to an audience of 1,850 people in Trenton, NJ. Since then, the band released the highly-acclaimed "The End is Beautiful" (2005), toured Europe for the first time, and was featured at the 2006 edition of FMPM in Quebec. In 2007, echolyn plans to continue writing a new studio album which will be ready for release by the time NEARfest X is upon us. NEARfest is very proud to welcome back one of America's all-time elite progressive rock band in echolyn!
Posted: 07.23 | More information |

Discipline reforms to play NEARfest X

Michigan-based favorites Discipline have reformed and will be performing with the original lineup for the first time in over 10 years at NEARfest X. Matthew Parmenter (vocals, keyboards), Jon Preston Bouda (guitar), Mathew Kennedy (bass), and Paul Dzendzel (drums) will once again bring their unique brand of dramatic symphonic rock to the stage, playing favorites from such modern classics as "Push & Profit" and "Unfolded Like Staircase." Mixing Van der Graaf Generator, UK, mid-70s King Crimson with Parmenter's passionate on-stage theatrics, Discipline is sure to be a highlight of the 10th anniversary show.
Posted: 07.09 | More information |

NEARfest X, The 10th Anniversary Show

It's hard to believe it's been 10 years, but 2008 will mark just that! NEARfest X will be a celebration of path we have taken and what we have achieved along the way. In doing so, we plan to make a few changes to the schedule and provide some surprises to the lineup. The main change will be that we will have four acts per day (removing the solo spotlight) and extend the performance time of each slot by approximately 15 minutes. This will give more time for the special acts we hope to bring in for the big weekend! Thanks again for the amazing support and stay tuned!
Posted: 07.09 | More information |

Introducing NEARfest Thundering Hammond Pale Ale

This year, our friends at the Bethlehem Brew Works have brewed a special beer just for NEARfest! We have named it "NEARfest Thundering Hammond Pale Ale." Though we are still waiting on the alcohol content (ABV), we do have some of the other stats:

ABV: 5.3%
O.G. 1.052
Color: Copper
IBU's 35

According to the brewer: "This is a west coast style pale ale with Cascade hops to give it a nice floral aroma and a good dose for bittering. This brew has a nice carmel flavor with a hint of chocolate malt in the finish." This special beer will be available all weekend at the Brew Works and is $1.00 off when you present your NEARfest 2007 ticket stub. Be sure to stop by and sample a few pints. Big thanks to Traci Langer at the Brew Works for organizing this, to Ray Loboda for help with the name, and especially to Tom Whalen for spectacular logo. Cheers!
Posted: 06.05 | More information |

Hawkwind visas approved!

Just a quick update to inform everyone that Hawkwind's visas for their trip to NEARfest have been approved!
Posted: 05.11 | More information |

NEARfest 2007 is sold out!

The 9th edition of the North East Art Rock is now sold out! A big "thank you" to everyone that bought tickets for this year's event. Patron tickets are currently being mailed out, so those in the Patron Program should keep an eye on their mailboxes. Those still looking for tickets should frequent Progressive Ears and the NEARfest Board here on this site to look for folks that may have to sell off their tickets.

Tickets for Progressive Arts' Fusion Friday are still available. This event features Allan Holdsworth (UK), Secret Oyster (Denmark), and One Shot (France), and should be a heck of a show. Information on the bands and tickets are at progressive-arts.net.

Thanks again and see you in June!
Posted: 04.19 | More information |

Return to Kobaia: Magma to headline NEARfest 2007

We are thrilled to announce the return of the legendary French ensemble MAGMA as the Sunday headliner for NEARfest 2007. Remaining a vital musical force for over 35 years with their unique brand of symphonic operatic fusion, Magma continues to deliver emotional and powerful concerts around the world. Over the past couple of years they have been performing and recording Ementeht-Re, a new opus in the finest Kobaian tradition. As always centered on the visionary composer and drummer Christian Vander, the newly expanded 9-piece Magma lineup features six vocalists and a vibraphonist/pianist. Be sure not to miss this stirring MAGMA concert in the intimate confines of Zoellner Arts Center at NEARfest 2007!
Posted: 01.08 | More information |

Spaceship Hawkwind to land at NEARfest 2007

NEARfest is very excited to announce the legendary British space rock collective Hawkwind as our first headline act for our ninth annual festival. Led by guitarist, keyboardist and vocalist Dave Brock, Hawkwind has earned world-wide renown for their 36-year musical mission to explore inner and outer space. From their genre-defining classic albums "Space Ritual", "Hall of the Mountain Grill", and "Warrior at the Edge of Time" to their brand new recording "Take Me to Your Leader", the band has coursed through the cosmos with their progressive hard rock guitar and keyboard-led attack, sci-fi themed lyrics, and memorable songs.

Hawkwind has always shined most in a live setting through the decades, with improvisatory excursions intermingling with visual imagery and interpretive dancing to provide immersive multi-media sensory experiences for audiences around the world. Be sure not to miss this rare Stateside landing of spaceship Hawkwind on the Saturday slate at NEARfest 2007!

(NOTE: Visas for Hawkwind's trip to NEARfest have been approved!)
Posted: 12.15 | More information |

Avant garde mastermind Bob Drake to fill the spotlight at NEARfest '07

A true prog rock iconoclast in every sense of the word, Bob Drake is a trifecta of musical virtuosity, artistic vision and an idiosyncratic sense of the sublime. Whatever else you may think of him, Drake’s work has his unmistakable stamp upon it. Originally from the Midwestern United States, his musical wanderings have taken him to Colorado, Los Angeles and to his current home in France. In addition to his extensive work as an engineer – from his more mainstream work with Ice Cube, George Clinton, Tina Turner, and even Charo and Shirley MacLaine; to more progressive rock-oriented work with NeBeLNeST, Hamster Theatre, Chris Cutler, Fred Frith, and Blast; to his remastering work for the Art Bears, Henry Cow and Slapp Happy – Drake has also performed with a veritable who’s who of the avant garde: 5UUs, Thinking Plague, The Science Group, AA Kismet and others. His solo credentials are impressive in their own right and incorporate such disparate influences as folk, avant garde, Lovecraft and anthropomorphism; as well as his multi-instrumental prowess on vocals, bass, drums, guitar, banjo, organ, violin and other sundries. His discography includes the six wonderfully weird discs “The Shunned Country”, “13 Songs and a Thing”, “The Skull Mailbox and Other Horrors”, Medallion Animal Carpet”, “Little Black Train”, and “What Day Is It?”

For his NEARfest 2007 performance, Drake will be presenting work from his solo output, as well as one or two new surprises. Utilizing both guitar and banjo, he’ll be accompanied by David Campbell on guitar, bass and backing vocals. Campbell (from Ontario, Canada) is a composer who, in addition to writing for symphonies and string quartets, writes and produces soundtracks for TV and documentaries. In 2005, his work was featured at LaSalle University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, at the Electro-Acoustic Festival. Campbell also performs in three bands (The Rebel Wheel, Filth Therapy, and vZZZt) and freelances as a jazz musician.

[Special thanks to Lynnette Shelley for the write-up]
Posted: 11.13 | More information |

Ambient pioneer Robert Rich signs on for solo spotlight in 2007

NEARfest is proud to announce the addition of Robert Rich to the 2007 edition of the North East Art Rock Festival. A pioneer of ambient and electronic music, Robert has helped to define the genre over the last 25 years. In that time, he has released over two dozen albums. His music combines ambient, dark-ambient, tribal and trance, yet remains difficult to fully categorize. From his debut release, "Sunyata," in 1982 to his latest release, "Electric Ladder," Robert continues to expand his palette playing everything from all-night sleep concerts to pure electronica with UK sound synthesist Ian Boddy. Robert has also released two excellent collaborations with NEARfest alum Steve Roach.

Robert is currently working with graphic artist Daniel Colvin on "Atlas Dei," a feature-length film shot in high-definition and full surround sound. Music from the film will surely make its way into Robert's live set along with some old favorites. In addition, Robert will feature visuals from "Atlas Dei" as a dynamic backdrop to his performance. We are very happy to be able to present this master of ambience to the NEARfest faithful in 2007.
Posted: 11.02 | More information |

Magenta to bring symphonic color to NEARfest 2007

We are very pleased to announce that the British sextet Magenta, without question one of the best "newer" bands in the symphonic progressive arena, will be performing on the Saturday slate of NEARfest 2007. Centered around the multi-keyboard attack of band founder Rob Reed and the soaring and emotive vocals of Christina Booth, Magenta's music is evocative of a hybrid of Yes and Renaissance textures, updated for the 21st century with an aggressive guitar and rhythmic edge. Their new release "Home", a concept-themed work about the conflicting emotions of a young female British emigreé to the USA, along with its EP companion "New York Suite", have cemented their international reputation and proven a very strong seller for their independent F2 Music label. Magenta has also garnered well-deserved accolades for their extremely strong live performances at festivals and prog showcases around the world. Be sure not to miss Magenta's stirring performance at NEARfest 2007!
Posted: 10.15 | More information |

NEARfest Forum back online

After a long delay, the NEARfest Forum here at NEARfest.com is back online. We apologize for the inconvenience. Please feel free to continue enjoying discussions at your leisure!
Posted: 10.06 | More information |

NeBeLNeST to bring their sonic attack to NEARfest 2007

NeBeLNeST are one of the most adventurous and energetic young bands to emerge on the international post-rock / avant-progressive scene in recent years. The young French band is noted for its dark symphonic rock music influenced by King Crimson, Pulsar and Shylock, laced with psychedelia and improvisation, and played with a riveting level of energy and intensity. Their new album "ZePTO" (Cuneiform) shows them adding more elements of found-sound, noise, improvisation and dissonance to their uniquely post-punk take on dark symphonic rock, updating and punishing that sound beyond recognizable and reaching a whole new audience with it as well. With their over-the-top shredding guitar solos and snaking keyboard lines and stop-on-a-dime rhythm section, NeBeLNeST is sure to deliver a dynamic and powerful performance stretching the boundaries of progressive music, taking the NEARfest audience along on a sonic ride into the dark recesses of inner and outer space.
Posted: 09.18 | More information |

IZZ to open NEARfest 2007

We are very happy to announce that New York-based IZZ will be one of the opening bands at NEARfest 2007. Without question one of the brightest lights on the American symphonic prog scene, IZZ melds classic and modern prog influences, strong melodies, complex male-female multi-part vocal harmonies, and stirring guitar and synthesizer solos into a familiar yet refreshing musical stew. The new IZZ album "My River Flows", their third full-length recording, shows the band’s full musical palette: from accessible yet complex songs mixing their Yes, Beatles, and Gentle Giant affinities with a Radiohead spice to a dynamic, spiritually uplifting multi-part symphonic suite.

To date IZZ has performed at numerous progressive rock showcases and festivals all over North America (including headlining ProgDay 2006) honing their powerful live performances loaded with soaring harmonies and fiery instrumental interplay. We hope that their performance in front of the international audience at NEARfest propels them to even greater heights of well-deserved notoriety.
Posted: 09.10 | More information |

Pure Reason Revolution to mark their arrival as the bright ambassadors of New Prog

British upstarts Pure Reason Revolution have been confirmed for NEARfest 2007. Their debut album, "The Dark Third" (Sony), is making tsunami-sized waves the world over with its Pink Floyd-meets-postrock flair. The quintet's music features a fresh melding of spacey excursions, hard-edged riffing, and gorgeous multi-part Beach Boys-esque vocal harmonies. They have been variously described as "Astral Folk" and "New Prog."

The band was formed in 2003 at Westminster University by founders Jon Coutrney (vocals, guitar, keyboards, bass), Andrew Courtney (drums) and Chloe Alper (vocals, bass). The current lineup also includes Jamie Wilcox (guitar, vocals) and James Dobson (keyboards, violin). They have released several singles to date along with a mini-LP in 2005 called "Cautionary Tales for the Brave." Between the US and UK versions of "The Dark Third," most of the band's repertoire is available on a full-length release. The US version contains the original, pre-Cautionary Tales tracklisting including the single "The Intention Craft." The UK version contains a few new compositions like the dynamic "The Twyncyn/Trembling Willows."

We are very proud and excited to present this exciting, new band to progressive rock faithful at NEARfest 2007.
Posted: 08.03 | More information |

Indukti to power their way to USA for NEARfest 2007

We are very happy to announce that the Polish power prog quintet Indukti will be making its North American concert debut at NEARfest 2007.* Selected for the festival by wide popular demand, Indukti filters aggressive yet beautiful soundscapes similar to "Larks' Tongues" era King Crimson through the modern metallic crunch of bands like Tool and Opeth to yield a powerful, delicious and unique instrumental progressive stew.

Indukti's debut CD "S.U.S.A.R." for the Laser's Edge has proven to be one of that label's best selling discs. It offers powerful, dark compositions of hypnotic complexity, featuring articulate bass work, tribal drones, and boiling rhythms which set the stage for the stark contrast of fluttering violin lines with jackhammer guitars. Indukti will sweetly pull the listener in with soft harps and quiet melodies before delivering the punch of crunching riffs. The band is currently hard at work writing and recording their sophomore effort. We expect that their wide dynamics, intricate playing, crushing instrumental hooks and emotional intensity will wake up the early morning NEARfest audience and earn Indukti legions of new fans.

*pending expected successful P1 visa application in early winter.
Posted: 07.28 | More information |

La Maschera di Cera to make USA debut at NEARfest 2007

NEARfest is very pleased to announce the Italian symphonic rock quintet La Maschera di Cera as the first confirmed band for its ninth annual festival. Founded by bassist and composer Fabio Zuffanti (Finisterre, Aries, LaZona, Hostsonaten), one of the most active progressive musicians in the world, La Maschera di Cera has plied its brand of soaring melodic symphonic prog since its inception in 2001. The band is very well regarded worldwide for its combination of the majesty, emotional power, and compositional prowess of 70s Italian prog legends like Le Orme and Banco with a modern aggressive edge.

Their new CD LuxAde, produced by Franz DiCioccio of PFM fame, is arguably their best to date. It is loaded with stirring symphonic prog based on powerful Italian vocals, a classic analog keyboard attack including grinding Hammond Organ and serpentine Moog leads, and complex yet subtle bass work, augmented by biting guitar and rock solid percussion.

La Maschera di Cera has performed at numerous prog festivals and showcases throughout Europe over the past five years to strong reviews, but have never made their way to the States. Be sure not to miss their US debut gig at NEARfest 2007!
Posted: 07.05 | More information |