Groove Therapy Records is happy to announce that world renowned bassist and composer Sean O'Bryan Smith is in pre-production for a Christian Jazz CD entitled "Reflection". Smith is an internationally known solo jazz artist as well as an accomplished bassist with artist credits ranging from Billy Ray Cyrus to the Mississippi Mass Choir. This will be Sean's sophomore release for Groove Therapy Records, following up the critically acclaimed 2008 release "Tapestry," which continues to be successful worldwide.

"Reflection" will bring Sean's signature sound to a number of popular hymns and worship tunes as well as Smith originals. Full production is scheduled for summer of 2009 and "Reflection" is due to be released in time for the 2009 holiday season.

For more information check out Sean's MySpace page. Smith's "Tapestry" can be purchased at CDbaby, iTunes, Napster, Target.com, Amazon.com, and other popular locations.

Long-term endorser Abe White took a break from sessions and tour preparations long enough to bring us up to date on life in Abe's World. For starters, Abe and his Cold Truth band-mates, vocalist/guitarist Thane Shearon and lead guitarist Kurt Menck, are among the dozens of stars to contribute to "The Led Box: The Ultimate Led Zepplin Tribute." Sessions for "When the Levee Breaks" and "You Shook Me" took place several years ago, and included veteran vocalist/harmonica player Jimmy Hall (of Wet Willie and the Nighthawks), and former Lynyrd Skynyrd drummer Artimus Pyle. "It's a real honor to be part of this," Abe said. "And it's amazing that they got so many musicians involved."

Look at the liner notes for "Led Box" and you'll see musicians like Pat Travers, John Wetton (Asia, King Crinsom), Tony Franklin (The Firm), Rick Wakeman (Yes), Jeff "Skunk" Baxter (Steely Dan, Doobie Brothers), Eric Bloom (Blue Oyster Cult), Joe Lynn Turner (Rainbow), Keith Emerson (ELP), Brian Robertson (Thin Lizzy), Steve Lukather, Rick Derringer, Albert Lee, Dweezil Zappa, Steve Morse (Deep Purple), Geoff Downes (Asia, Yes) Alan White (Yes), and many others. As Abe said, "it's like a Who's Who of Rock history. We certainly are definitely in good company."

In addition to a full schedule of sessions, Abe's band Cold Truth just released their second effort, "Do Whatcha Do", an amazingly strong set of classic American heavy Rock. Like their first, self-titled, CD, the new set has critics and fans raving. "This second set has definitely taken the band to a much higher level," says Abe. "Producer Michael St. Leon helped us make sure we picked the best songs and gave our very best on every track. We're all extremely pleased with the results."

Pleased they should be, as sales are strong in the US and Europe. Thanks to glowing reviews, many European outlets are buying in large bulk and selling out quickly. Just a few quotes I've come across reading reviews this morning:

One of the top Rock bands to come out of the new millenium.

One of the most formidable rhythmm sections today.

Brilliant awesome. everything on the release is one step ahead of what you would normally expect.

The album puts Cold Truth in a superb light.

Keeping the flame alive.

Guaranteed to make you believe in the healing powers of Rock and Roll once again.

The release of "Do Whatcha Do" was delayed when Shearon suffered severe injuries from a motorcycle accident. "When Thane was injured, we weren't sure if he'd make it back," Abe said. "Now he's up to 100% again, and we're really looking forward to touring in support of the CD. Having to wait just makes it more exciting now that it's all happening."

To purchase "Do Whatcha Do," and learn more about this outstanding band, visit the Cold Truth web site.

We just got the great news that Al Turner's CD Movin has been nominated for the Detroit Music Awards. Al was our first endorser, and we're very proud of his accomplishment.

We just traded emails with Al while he's on tour in Japan with Cheryl Lynn. Al only received news of the nomination yesterday and he's still waiting for specifics. He's promied us an update as soon as he learns more.

To learn more about Al and to hear samples from Movin, check out Al's web site.

Endorser Ronnie Penque sent us an email to announce Spring tour dates for the Ronnie Penque Band. Ronnie is the bassist for New Riders of the Purple Sage, but also fronts his own band as much as possible. Members of RPB include Ronnie's brother Chris on guitar, Andy Trister (lead guitar), and the dynamic duo of Katie (drums) and Jeff (keys) Pearlman.

The RPB sound is classic Americana Jam Band, featuring Ronnie's compostitions. Strong vocals and blistering harmonies float over infectious grooves, making this a band well worth seeing. For tour dates and more info, visit the band's web site.