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Music News UK This Life added: 12 Sep 2010 // UK release date: 15 Sep 2010
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Amanda Abizaid
This Life
added: 12 Sep 2010 // release date: 15 Sep 2010 // label: The Indepen...
Amanda Abizaid
This Life
added: 12 Sep 2010 // release date: 15 Sep 2010 // label: The Independent Distribution Collective
reviewer: Paul Chapinal
Email this album review Printable version
Maybe it?s because I do what I do but there does seem to be a lot of female singer-songwriters around at the moment. A glut maybe? There are a few things they have in common, very good voices, radio friendly songs and barely anything to set them apart from each other.
Amanda Abizaid is a little different as well as versatile, sensuous voice; she crucially has that little spark of originality that should set her apart from the others.
Blue Star Red Sky opens the album and is a slightly unsettling combination of samples, synths, brass, lots of blips and bubbles accompany, with Ms Abizaid commentating rather than singing, and it works. Wash Me is more traditional fare, a brisk, spacious song that?s lifted out of the ordinary by the careful use of the bouzouki. The rootsier, folokier Undivided is next, followed by the bluegrass Americana of Believe It.
How Can I Explain shuffles along on a laidback bass and brass, gathering instruments as it goes and in the end is just a little too busy.
This Life itself is probably the most straightforward pure MOR track on the album, but Abizaid?s voice manages to carries it off.
How Much We?re Alike (High 5s) with its off kilter rhythms and flute is an intriguing song. My Friend closes the album and what starts as a croon for the late night bar crowd, evolves into a song that at times sounds as if it wouldn?t be out of place on a Bond theme song album.
This is almost the perfect album: at less than half an hour it doesn?t outstay its welcome. Its many moods means that it could quite easily be slipped on at a dinner party without causing offence, but at the same time prick up the ears. However, it?s probably best savoured after midnight with a contemplative cognac in your hand. Thoroughly recommended.
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Amanda Abizaid Riding High on This Life’s Radio Success Hit TV Show Theme Song Chanteuse Announces Autograph In-Store Signings and Solo Performances
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FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
For more info, please contact:
Christopher Buttner
PRThatRocks.com
T...FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
For more info, please contact:
Christopher Buttner
PRThatRocks.com
Tel: 415-233-7350
Email: chris@prthatrocks.com
Amanda Abizaid Riding High on This Life’s Radio Success
Hit TV Show Theme Song Chanteuse Announces Autograph In-Store Signings and Solo Performances
September 9, 2010 – Los Angeles, CA - Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Amanda Abizaid, who released her fifth CD This Life earlier in 2010, is riding high on the disc’s radio success. This Life debuted on FMQB.com’s ACQB Adult Contemporary Chart at #2 Most Added on July 27, 2010, beating out Plain White Ts, Heart, and Katy Perry. The following week of August 3, This Life rated #4 Most Added record on ACQB, beating out Christina Aguilera, Lady Gaga, and Five For Fighting. In addition, This Life also scored very well on ACQB Top 200 peaking at #60 during the week of August 31, as well as #15 on Small Market AC/HOT AC Up and Coming, and #27 on Small Market AC/HOT AC Top 30 Indie Chart. Abizaid is best known as the captivating vocalist on the theme song "A Place In Time" from Paramount's The 4400, the featured song "Dreams in Ashes" from Lifetime Television’s Odd Girl Out, as well as other lead vocal appearances in songs appearing in Smallville, Ed, One Tree Hill, Felicity, and Charmed.
In support of This Life, Abizaid is proud to announce in-store autograph signings and solo performances at Borders Books and Music retail locations throughout California beginning September 11, 2010, in Brea, with additional dates as follows; September 17, 2010 in San Mateo, September 18, 2010 in Alameda, and September 26, 2010 in Palo Alto. On September 24, 2010, Amanda performs two live shows in Benicia, California at The Relik Tavern. For San Francisco fans, Amanda appears in a very special performance at Independent Distribution Collective’s Fall Showcase at The Union Room in San Francisco on September 25th, 2010. Check http://www.amandaabizaid.com for dates and times.
Britain’s Glasswerk calls Abizaid, “all the warmth of a cup of hot chocolate and the magic of a fireworks display,” and Paul Fleck, former Executive Director of Marketing of Paramount Pictures’ Motion Picture Group, states, “This Life is unquestionably her most accomplished work to date, with already-classic tracks entitled “Undivided,” “Wash Me,” and, well…actually, every single track on the album is fantastic.”
There are countless singers who lend their voice to an infinite number of anonymous TV gigs, but Abizaid is recognized with a voice that resonates above the crowd with an adventurous spirit that makes her albums unpredictable and mesmerizing. So impressive was her vocals on “A Place in Time”, Adam Buckman of the NY Post stated, "I'd like to thank Amanda Abizaid for making TV more memorable this summer," and Paul Fleck, who calls her "A Place In Time" performance “sheer perfection” on what he considers “one of the greatest television theme songs ever,” sums up his opinion of This Life with, “If it’s possible to somehow actually wear out a CD, I’m doing it.”
For more info, tour dates, music and videos, please visit: www.amandaabizaid.com - To arrange interviews with Amanda Abizaid or to request a copy of This Life for review, please contact Christopher Buttner at PRThatRocks.com, telephone: 415-233-7350 or email: chris@prthatrocks.com
For radio enquiries, please contact Rock Dibble at Bryan Farrish Radio Promotion, telephone: 310-998-8305, Ext. 28, or email: rock@radio-media.com
For US distribution inquiries, please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective, 415-292-7007 or via email at sales@independentdistro.com
The complete press release is online at this PRThatRocks.com URL: http://bit.ly/amandatour
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GLASSWERK//UK Reviews \\ Amanda Abizaid - This Life
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GLASSWERK//UK
Reviews \\ Amanda Abizaid - This Life
By Jonathan Nicholson, Sunday 22nd August 2010...GLASSWERK//UK
Reviews \\ Amanda Abizaid - This Life
By Jonathan Nicholson, Sunday 22nd August 2010 09.19pm
Amanda Abizaid is in the sky with diamonds with the surrealist twinning which consummates the album This Life. Her credentials are not just about being a writers’ muse, but actually proven by her presence on the soundtrack to hit US shows like Smallville, One Tree Hill and Charmed. Songs about life are always a hit with anyone who has time to melt in to an atmosphere of soft pop like a marshmallow.
The Lebanese and American beauty that this songstress is combines all the warmth of a cup of hot chocolate and the magic of a fireworks display and pulls out of the air some quality unknown. The vocals are soft and charming, ascending up to the heavens and unashamedly angelic. Standout tracks include the opener Blue Star Red Sky includes perfectly woven synthesized stabs is something The Beatles would be jealous of, even at the height of their Sgt. Pepper era. The inviting tingling guitars continue through Wash Me, Undivided to the highlight and title track This Life, a track full of repentance, promises and the optimism which cocoons the whole from the drudgery and dross churned out by inhospitable and inclement weather.
The finale comes in the form of friendship as the soothing piano chords chomp their way through bars. Hands reached out to “When you are down and out/Come to me we’ll share a bite or two”. As the end nears the record manages tugs at the heartstrings of the listener. The serenity is unmissable and can hardly be contained by the digitally encoded bits.
Dido seems yesterday’s as the more araldite Amanda Abizaid easily takes the crown of easy listening music. Give your mind body and soul a relaxing half an hour, plug in and step out of the world on this universal tour of limitless undying love.
For more information you can visit: http://www.amandaabizaid.com
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FAME UK Presents: Amanda Abizaid
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FAME Presents: Amanda Abizaid
Insanely talented and vastly experienced songstress Amanda Abizaid is...FAME Presents: Amanda Abizaid
Insanely talented and vastly experienced songstress Amanda Abizaid is something of a celebrity in the US.
Largely thanks to having some of her vocal tracks, such as “A Place In Time” featured on hit TV show The 4400 and “Dreams In Ashes” being featured on Lifetime’s Odd Girl Out. While elsewhere, Amanda has leant her vocal skills to shows like Smallville, One Tree Hill & Charmed to mass appraisal.
But far from being simply a mini TV star, Amanda is a brilliant singer-songwriter in her own right, proof being her latest album This Life; a warm combination of pop melodies, lush vocals and a genuine penchant for songwriting. With tracks such as the luminous, electronic splendour of “Blue Star, Red Sky”; a mish mash of sketchy beats, chilling Synths and Abizaid’s warm voice, coupled into a wonderful hybrid.Flawless, wonderful and oddly addictive; This Life catches Amanda at her very best. Crooning tracks of contemplation and love, she’s the modern individual’s new favourite singer.??
WHO ARE THE BAND MEMBERS AND WHAT DO EACH OF YOU DO IN THE BAND??Amanda Abizaid- vocals, acoustic guitar, flute, piano Ron Dziubla- keyboards, electric/acoustic guitar, saxaphone Mike Mennell- bass guitar Stewart Jean- drums Ali Shayesteh- saz, bouzouki Dan Nissila- piano Guest Artists- Morty Shallman- acoustic guitar Dan Brownfield- cello
WHAT KIND OF MUSIC DO YOU MAKE / PLAY??Americana mixed with a little World music
WHERE ARE YOU FROM??Born and raised in the Middle East, Beirut, Lebanon. My family and I moved to New York State, US when I was 10 years old. My background, education and life has been eclectic.
HOW DID YOU GUYS GET TOGETHER AND WHEN??LA is a great place to network and meet new people. Shortly after moving to Los Angeles in 1998, my good friend, songwriter Shane?Soloski and I socially met musicians Eric Dover, Ron Dziubla, Brian Head, Mike Mennell and Taylor Mills. Almost immediately we clicked, formed the band “Blue”, and gigged around town. Our time together ended as outside opportunities presented themselves individually to various members of the band just before releasing our first album in 2000. It was at this time that my solo career as a singer songwriter started. I asked my band mates Ron and Mike to stay with me. Brian, when he is available joins us for good old times.
WHO ARE YOUR INFLUENCES IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY??The Beatles, Coldplay, U2, Annie Lennox, Pink Floyd, Johnny Cash, Kate Bush, Beck, Bjork
WHAT HAS BEEN THE HARDEST PART OF BEING IN THE BAND FOR YOU??Scheduling is our greatest challenge. Aside from playing with me my band mates play with other artists like Ricky Martin, Tom Jones, Royal Crown Review and Taylor Hicks.
TELL US A BIT ABOUT YOUR EARLY DAYS AND HOW THEY DIFFER FROM NOW??Born and raised in the Middle East, Beirut, Lebanon is very different from living here in the United States. My siblings and I grew up together, best friends, close family, singing together in churches and county fairs. The war separated us as a family and we pursued different careers and lifestyles. My having exposure and being educated and well traveled in Europe and other parts of the world, greatly influenced me, steering me on my life path developing the “artistic, creative” side of music, art, theatre, runway and print modeling. I learned the piano, guitar, flute and sang in a couple cover bands. In my adult life, shortly after working in Washington, DC, New York, Miami and London I decided to move forward with my life dream and pursue an opportunity, move to Los Angeles, become a singer / songwriter and start my own band. Life today is very different, living in the United States. The biggest difference is opportunity and lifestyle. I am grateful for my life, family and friendships today.
WHAT WAS THE LAST GIG YOU PLAYED, WHAT DID YOU THINK OF IT? ?The last gig I played was at Genghis Cohen in Los Angeles. It was my last stop on the “LA Woman Summer Tour” with girls that rock in LA. It was a really fun show, especially since it was among friends.
WHAT’S THE MOST SUCCESSFUL THING YOU GUYS HAVE DONE TO DATE? ?Most recently launching our first 200 City National Radio Promotional Campaign, with the first week playing from our newest album “This Life” initial rating 178, second week jumping to 115 and this week (third week) jumping from 115 to 93 on the ACQB Top 200 Chart! Spins on “This Life” increased from 78 to 123 for the week! We are also very proud of our first four albums, and of course singing the theme song, “A Place In Time” for the TV show “The 4400”.
WHO HAS HELPED YOU THE MOST GET TO WHERE YOU ARE TODAY? ?Two guys from Bosshouse Music were looking for a singer to record on their first collection of songs for their TV/FILM music catalog and approached me with the opportunity. The songs were placed over the years in several network shows. My career and exposure as a singer songwriter grew from that point forward.
WHAT’S COMING NEXT FOR THE BAND??We have a record release show locally, in Los Angeles, on Aug. 25th at Cafe Cordiale. From there we have several shows in and around the LA area through the end of August. A tour listing is on my website amandaabizaid.com. I am touring solo up the west coast and around San Francisco through September. From there my tour takes me to the East Coast; Miami, D.C. and New York.
Specifics on the tour are offered on my website amandaabizaid.com.
IS IT HARD BEING A NEW BAND IN TODAY’S INDUSTRY??We have been playing as a band for several years and with the level of competition and talent it takes a lot of perseverance, faith,?friendships, connections and good hard work to reach higher levels of exposure. You have to have a lot of passion to pursue this dream of being an exceptional artist in today’s industry. I am very appreciative and grateful to the people who have helped open doors for me and am really thankful to them for that.
HOW IMPORTANT IS THE INTERNET AND SOCIAL NETWORK SITES TO THE SUCCESS OF YOUR BAND??Internet and social network sites are critical to the success of our band. This industry has grown so much in the past decade making it impossible for businesses of all segments to succeed without it. It is the mainstream of business throughout the world; locally and internationally, with all kinds of communication through marketing,?networking and being able to really reach out to fans on a daily basis. If you want to promote something, get new information out there, find someone, access or learn something the first place everyone goes is the internet!
QUICK-FIRE QUESTIONS:?WHO’S THE MESSIEST IN THE BAND??We all haveour ‘things’ however, I claim this piece for myself.
WHO IS HARDEST TO LIVE WITH ON TOUR? ?Being creative and artistic allows me to carry the title of being picky and detail oriented. I am a really hard worker and strive to be perfect in mywork and that can make me challenging at times.
WHO IS THE JOKER AND WHY? ?Mike Mennell carries this title.?His unique style of quiet one-liners is hilarious and unexpected.?Mike has a great sense of humor. He keeps us lighthearted and laughing.
WHO MOANS THE MOST??I miss my female friends to keep me in the loop.?Girls like to talk; I think it is about 5-10 times more than men talk per day. I miss that sometimes.
WHO IS THE MOST ROCK ‘N’ ROLL & WHY? ?Ron travels a lot. He tours and plays at large venues around the world. He has quite a fan base, and of course the girls love him.
WHO IS THE LOUDEST? ?We try very hard as a band to have balance and listen to each others ideas on the music especially when it comes to live performances and recording. The best idea always wins and everyone has a chance to speak their minds. This is the way we know the best music will come forth. The same philosophy carries in to our friendship and personal lives. We are supportive and have a lot of respect for each others accomplishments.
WHO IS THE MOST ANNOYING? ?I have to say this has never been an issue. There is much friendship, patience and respect within our group. We have always found a way of balancing each other out when support has been needed. “We are family!”
WHAT’S THE MOST EMBARRASSING THING SOMEONE IN THE BAND HAS DONE? ?Several years ago when we were starting out as a band we played an entire song with the keyboards set to a different key. We couldn’t understand why we were so off balance. It ended up being a strange experience and carried a funky melody. We brought in the audience and got a good laugh admitting to our creativity.
WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO COLLABORATE WITH IN THE INDUSTRY??It would be wonderful to collaborate, sing and write a song with Annie Lennox
WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO COLLABORATE WITH IN IRELAND OR NORTHERN IRELAND AND WHY??U2 would be amazing. Their songs are very melodic and I love Bono’s voice.
A little trivia, while performing with my first band “Blue” in Los Angeles, my “nickname / stage name” was Girl Bono.?www.amandaabizaid.com?©FAMEmagazine.co.uk
Ron Dittifield
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REDHOTVELVET UK INTERVIEW: Amanda Abizaid
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INTERVIEW: Amanda Abizaid
August 3, 2010 by RED redhotvelvet.co.uk
1. Tell us who you are and...INTERVIEW: Amanda Abizaid
August 3, 2010 by RED redhotvelvet.co.uk
1. Tell us who you are and where you’re from.: I was born in Beirut, Lebanon to an American mother and Lebanese father. I travelled the Middle East and Europe with my family until the age of ten when I moved with my mother and brother to the U.S. My first exposure to music was Middle Eastern combined with the American influences of Elton John, Crosby, Stills and Nash and The Beatles. I lived in Poughkeepsie, NY, Great Falls, VA. and worked as a runway model and hairstylist during my college years in Washington, D.C., Miami and London before making my way to Los Angeles to pursue my real love for music.
2. Describe your music.: I would say my music is story driven- lyrically, obviously, but I also try to take the melodies on an interesting journey. Usually when I sit down at the piano or guitar, I’ll find a couple chords that strike me and sometimes it’ll just turn into a full blown song. It might take a while to get the lyrics right, but harmonies, which I love just come naturally and help give my songs their sultry sound. Of course, to talk about my music style means mentioning influences like Ricki Lee Jones, Kate Bush, Heart as well as Massive Attack, Morcheeba and Annie Lennox to name a few.
3. Tell us how the band formed in three sentences.: I came to LA with songwriter Shane Soloski and quickly met musicians Eric Dover (guitarist for Alice Cooper), Ron Dziubla, (keyboardist/guitarist/saxaphonist for Ricky Martin), Brian Head (drummer for John Doe, Wilco) , Mike Mennell (bassist for Tom Jones) and Taylor Mills (singer for Brian Wilson). We formed the band “Blue”, gigged around town and in classic fashion broke up just before releasing our first album. Fortunately, this lead to my solo career with my remaining band mates Ron and Mike an occasionally Brian.
4. What did you do before you were in a band?: I pursued a career in modeling at the age of 16 and worked as a runway model in Washington, D.C., New York and Miami with designers such as Jacques Fath, Nina Ricci, Oscar De La Renta and Alberta Ferretti. I also traveled to Germany and lived in London and modeled for designer Zandra Rhodes and others. I then moved back to New York where I began to train as a hairstylist/colorist with Oribe and Louis Lacari travelling back and forth to Miami.
5. List the first CDs/records each of you bought.: Michael Jackson- Off The Wall, Led Zeppelin- all of them, Pink Floyd- The Wall, The Beatles- Abbey Road, Elton John- Yellow Brick Road, Stevie Wonder- Conversation Peace
6. What’s the band up to over the next few months?: I am having my record release show with my band Aug. 25th in Los Angeles. I will then tour solo, up and down the coast for shows from San Diego to San Fransisco in September. For the month of October I will be headed to the east coast for the rest of the tour to Florida, Washington, D.C. and New York and returning to LA in November for the holidays.
7. Best item of fan mail you’ve ever received?: I have received a lot of fan mail and pictures. My very favorite is a pencil drawing of me from a fan in San Diego, CA.
8. What music do you have on repeat in the tourbus? : Beck, Annie Lennox, The Beatles, Cypress Hill, Aretha Franklin. I like to listen to ZZ Top as well to get crazy.
9. What gear do you use?: I have a Sennheiser microphone, Takamine acoustic guitar, Selmer flute, Yamaha P80 keyboards, Shure wireless microphone and Behringer amp.
10. What’s your best on-tour story?: In Decatur Georgia, no one showed up at our gig because it was storming like crazy. We were ready to leave and in walked a lesbian couple asking when the show was going to start. We pulled up two chairs for them and gave them a private performance of my music. As we were about to leave, one of the women came told me how I had inspired her to start writing again and handed me a folded check. I forgot about it and as it turned out it was for 0. Beautiful little miracles.
11. What do you demand on your rider?: Smoke free room, water, healthy snacks, a backroom to hang out and sound check for the gig. Two monitors on stage, DI box for the acoustic guitar, piano if available (OR I have keyboards), guitar stand, 2 mic boom stands. I do have a stage plot on Sonicbids.com which you can access from my website.
12. What’s your website?: http://www.amandaabizaid.com
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UK PRESS RELEASE OF "THIS LIFE"
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Press Release
Band: Amanda Abizaid
Album: This Life
Label: The Independent Distribution Collectiv...Press Release
Band: Amanda Abizaid
Album: This Life
Label: The Independent Distribution Collective
Release date: 15th September 2010
Website: www.amandaabizaid.com
“The perfect half-hour escape from the boundaries of time and space altogether.”
Brian Ball, WomansRadio
“Every single track on the album is fantastic.”
Paul Fleck, former Executive Director of Marketing of Paramount Pictures’ Motion
Picture Group
Insanely talented and vastly experienced songstress Amanda Abizaid is something of
a celebrity in the US. Largely thanks to having some of her vocal tracks, such as “A
Place In Time” featured on hit TV show The 4400 and “Dreams In Ashes” being
featured on Lifetime’s Odd Girl Out. While elsewhere, Amanda has leant her vocal
skills to shows like Smallville, One Tree Hill & Charmed to mass appraisal.
But far from being simply a mini TV star, Amanda is a brilliant singer-songwriter in
her own right, proof being her latest album This Life; a warm combination of pop
melodies, lush vocals and a genuine penchant for songwriting. With tracks such as
the luminous, electronic splendour of “Blue Star, Red Sky”; a mish mash of sketchy
beats, chilling Synths and Abizaid’s warm voice, coupled into a wonderful hybrid.
Elsewhere, the gentle Americana of “Undivided” highlights the core, human side to
Amanda’s music; brandishing her fantastic skills as a pianist, flautist and guitarist.
Added to this, the gentle yet catchy “Believe It” ebbs an almost New York-In-The-
Autumn feel; its warm, its beautiful and combined with Amanda’s husky voice, it’s
simply irresistible.
Flawless, wonderful and oddly addictive; This Life catches Amanda at her very best.
Crooning tracks of contemplation and love, she’s the modern individual’s new
favourite singer.
For press queries and to arrange an interview, please contact Tom Brumpton at
ocean_evolution@hotmail.com or on (+44) 7956 043 498
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Amanda Abizaid Releases Fifth CD, This Life Hit TV Show Theme Song Chanteuse Delivers 8 New Original Tracks to Eager Fans
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FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
For more info, please contact:
Christopher Buttner
PRThatRocks.com
T...FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
For more info, please contact:
Christopher Buttner
PRThatRocks.com
Tel: 415-233-7350
Email: chris@prthatrocks.com
Amanda Abizaid Releases Fifth CD, This Life
Hit TV Show Theme Song Chanteuse Delivers 8 New Original Tracks to Eager Fans
August 2, 2010 – Los Angeles, CA - Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, Amanda Abizaid, is proud
to announce the release of her fifth CD, This Life. Abizaid is best known as the captivating vocalist on the
theme song "A Place In Time" from Paramount's The 4400, the featured song "Dreams in Ashes" from
Lifetime Television’s Odd Girl Out, as well as other lead vocal appearances in songs appearing in Smallville,
Ed, One Tree Hill, Felicity, and Charmed.
Abizaid has outdone herself with This Life in what Brian Ball, music editor of WomansRadio calls, “the perfect
half-hour escape from the boundaries of time and space altogether,” and Paul Fleck, former Executive Director
of Marketing of Paramount Pictures’ Motion Picture Group, states, “This Life is unquestionably her most
accomplished work to date, with already-classic tracks entitled “Undivided,” “Wash Me,” and, well…actually,
every single track on the album is fantastic.”
Stepping back from her role as one of Hollywood’s most in-demand ‘Female-Vocalist-for-Hire” to concentrate
on developing new tracks for eager fans, Abizaid recorded This Life backed by her impressive 6-piece band of
seasoned Los Angeles pros consisting of, in part, bassist Mike Mennell (Tom Jones, Taylor Hicks, and Kenny
Loggins), and keyboardist/guitarist Ron Dziubla (Ricky Martin, Royal Crown Revue, and Rock and Roll Hall of
Famer Duane Eddy).
Born in Beirut, Lebanon to an American mother and Lebanese father, Abizaid taps into early musical influences
from her childhood in Lebanon, infusing a sensuous and seductive Middle Eastern flair on tracks “Wash Me”
and “My Friend”, thanks to Ali Shayesteh’s prodigal Saz and Bouzouki playing. On “How Can I Explain,”
trumpeter Max Vasquez’s, jazzy, impassioned and poignant horn swirls around of Abizaid’s smoky, sultry and
engaging vocals.
Also a gifted pianist, guitarist, and flautist, Abizaid’s other standout tracks are the hauntingly spiritual-sounding
and ambient/electronica-influenced “Blue Star Red Sky” and “Undivided,” featuring Abizaid on flute and
guitar. But, moreover, the album’s title track and first single, “This Life,” produced and co-wrote by Morty
Shallman, captivates the listener from the very first notes of the strummed and vibrato-saturated glassine
electric guitar chords that open the track through to the chorus that carries the listener on the warm updrafts of
its unforgettable anthemic melody.
Paramount’s Paul Fleck continues, “As Amanda’s star continues to rise, and she ultimately achieves the
recognition she so richly deserves, one can only imagine the volume of extraordinary and wondrous music she
has yet to produce… and I can’t wait to hear more!”
There are countless singers who lend their voice to an infinite number of anonymous TV gigs, but Abizaid is
recognized with a voice that resonates above the crowd with an adventurous spirit that makes her albums
unpredictable and mesmerizing. So impressive was her vocals on “A Place in Time”, Adam Buckman of the
NY Post stated, "I'd like to thank Amanda Abizaid for making TV more memorable this summer," and Paul
Fleck, who calls her "A Place In Time" performance “sheer perfection” on what he considers “one of the
greatest television theme songs ever,” sums up his opinion of This Life with, “If it’s possible to somehow
actually wear out a CD, I’m doing it.”
Brian Ball concludes by referring to This Life and Amanda as, “Absolutely stunning music from one of the
world’s friendliest songwriters.”
For more info, tour dates, music and videos, please visit: www.amandaabizaid.com
Posted to the MI2N news wire: http://mi2n.com/press.php3?press_nb=132245
To arrange interviews with Amanda Abizaid or to request a copy of This Life for review, please contact
Christopher Buttner at PRThatRocks.com, telephone: 415-233-7350 or email: chris@prthatrocks.com
For radio enquiries, please contact Rock Dibble at Bryan Farrish Radio Promotion, telephone: 310-998-8305,
Ext. 28, or email: rock@radio-media.com
For US distribution inquiries, please contact Steffen Franz or Ben Lang at Independent Distribution Collective,
415-292-7007 or via email at sales@independentdistro.com
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WomensRadio Music Review
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As time continues to fly past us at increasing rates of speed, it is of priceless value to find a so...As time continues to fly past us at increasing rates of speed, it is of priceless value to find a song that will practically stop time dead in its tracks. Multiply that 8X, once for each of the invaluable gems found on Amanda Abizaid’s 2010 release, This Life, and you will have found the perfect half-hour escape from the boundaries of time and space altogether.
From the beginning of This Life, Amanda’s experimental pop tendencies are up-front and clearly visible for all to see, notably spacey and extraterrestrial bass modulations that sound a lot like something that may come out of the studio of fellow Angeleno, Beck Hansen on “Blue Star Red Sky”. Together, a compelling mixture of trip-hop beats, Blues Brother-friendly jazz samples, take-out orders and Amanda’s (trademark) sensual vocals make this track come alive for the listener, while “Wash Me” further sanitizes in preparation for the rest of the fantastic journey that lies ahead.
The luscious pop greatness of “Undivided” and the diverse avenues of Americana and blues of “Believe It” propel the listener forward through the album while suspending any need for the outside world, and once the opening drum line and subtle saxophone caws of “How Can I Explain” take hold, there is no escaping the musical genius of Amanda Abizaid. Vocals are uttered with a sultry airiness, tempting the listener with an unbelievable combination of contemporary and experimental approaches that end up coming across as a chance meeting between DJ Krush and Goldfrapp on Billie Holiday’s back porch.
Ms. Abiazid’s cleverly scribed tour anecdotes send shivers down the listener’s spine on the album’s title track, “This Life”, while a totality of essential songwriting elements intertwine to form a finely woven tapestry comprised of the finest silk, gold and cashmere. Glorious beats mixed with the always-golden pop sensibility Amanda brings forward on each of her releases are fundamentally prevalent on “How Much We’re Alike”, allowing the top notch production and timeless & worldly atmosphere to take hold, showcasing not just her distinct vocals, but more importantly, Amanda’s gifted multi-instrumental abilities.
As with any well thought out release, This Life closes on a very strong note with, “My Friend”, where the talent is literally gushing out of the song from every possible angle—lyrically, musically, emotionally, you name it, she’s got it and you want it…trust me! Want some proof? How about this one-liner: “I haven’t found a metaphor you yet.” Still not convinced? Take a listen and you’ll see exactly why Amanda Abizaid has got everything she needs to reach the ears and hearts of listeners far and wide. Simply stated, she has been found guilty of consistently overachieving.
“Absolutely stunning music from one of the world’s friendliest songwriters!” –Brian Ball, Music Editor ~ WomensRadio
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Motion Picture Group Paramount Pictures
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It was on a sound stage in the Bing Crosby building at Paramount Pictures that I
first heard Amanda...It was on a sound stage in the Bing Crosby building at Paramount Pictures that I
first heard Amanda Abizaid’s haunting and unforgettable performance of A Place
In Time, the opening theme song of the sci-fi television series The 4400.
Like everyone else in the room, I was unable to get the song – or the incredibly
gifted young singer’s voice – out of my mind. It’s considered one of the greatest
television theme songs ever, and it’s still impossible – unthinkable even -- to
imagine it being performed by anyone other than Amanda Abizaid. No other
recording artist on the planet would ever dare to even attempt it. It’s Amanda’s
theme…and it’s sheer perfection.
But even more impressive are Amanda’s own remarkable compositions, each
and every one as completely original, innovative and timelessly creative as those
written by the great artists she lists as her influences…Steven Stills, Graham
Nash, Elton John and The Beatles, among them.
The incredibly complex arrangements and intricately flawless harmonies of
Amanda’s work make them studies in the art of song-writing and musical
composition. Corrupted, Timeless, Facing the Lion, A High Price to Pay…the list
goes on and on, and her latest album, This Life, is unquestionably her most
accomplished work to date, with already-classic tracks entitled Undivided, Wash
Me, and, well…actually, every single track on the album – all eight of them – are
fantastic. If it’s possible to somehow actually wear out a CD, I’m doing it.
As Amanda’s star continues to rise, and she ultimately achieves the recognition
she so richly deserves, one can only imagine the volume of extraordinary and
wondrous music she has yet to produce…and I can’t wait to hear more!
Amanda’s mission, to inspire people around the world through her songs, is one
she has already gloriously accomplished, but with each new song she touches
the lives of more and more. Amanda, you are destined for truly great things!
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New Reviews UK
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Amada Abizaid's latest album 'This Life' is something quite remarkable, and whilst the music inside ...Amada Abizaid's latest album 'This Life' is something quite remarkable, and whilst the music inside is something all on it's own; the cover artwork is quite stunning. I really love the artwork on the back cover, and am very impressed with the photography on the front and inside. Whilst I'm here to tell you about her music, I thought the attention to detail was worth a mention!
Her music is inviting and friendly, and it soon absorbs you into a world of fantasy and electronic mystery. Her whole album is like an escape from every day life, the boring mundane events are brightened up and excited by her soothing voice. The first track 'Blue star red sky' is rather lush; it is a great combination of her smooth, flawless voice and a mellow techno beat. Amanda has definitely hit gold with this album, and her talent shines through the whole CD quite lovingly. You can just tell her from her voice how much she loves what she is doing, and she will definitely continue to get better and better throughout her career.
Amanda cannot really be compared to anyone in the music industry which I am aware of, it is quite difficult to pin point her to a particular category as her music leaks pop, yet with hints of electro underlined with mellow tones. Ah, it's difficult. But in a good way!
'Wash me' has an intro which reminds me of the band James, for a few seconds it brings me back to their track 'Laid' until it comes into her own completely. On a long stressful drive, Abizaid's music would soothe you all through your journey, (well, the length of the CD anyway!). It is calm and yet keeps a real tempo which keeps your attention. How can you not like it?
For those of you that would rather be throwing your head around and hitting those near you in the eye with your hair, do not write her off - she is definitely worth listening to.
'Undivided' is yet another brilliant example of her talent, I almost forget to write as I just sit and listen closely, and relax. I think that says it all really...
Amanda's music would be put to brilliant use in a film, something like 'P.S I love you' maybe? I can imagine a love story reaching a close, with her music running to a happy audience and the credits following. 'Believe it', 'How can I explain' and 'My friend' all have a similar feel to them, yet they are each unique. Whilst they each feel like chapters, they are standing strong on their own and don't need support like I have found on a few other albums. If you are wondering what the hell I'm on about, let me explain a little better... Many artists have one, two, maybe three brilliant tracks on their albums, and the rest they just fill with the tracks which seem like they are there to add up the numbers; like a padding.
However, 'This Life' feels well chosen and like a sequence; as smooth as a velvet glove. There is no padding, it just all...well, works.
Two tracks which I personally would pick as favourites would have to be 'This Life' and 'How much we're alike (High 5's)'. 'This Life' is just sweet and simple, and feels like an innocent fairy tale, pure genius. Whilst 'How much we're alike (High 5's)' feels very different, it is relaxing, warm and gentle. Amanda has something very special, her talent is beyond just about everything that is in the charts, and she will go very very far.
I wish her all the luck in the world, and be sure to check out her website here, and 'This Life' is set for release on the 15th of September 2010.
Brought to you by Suzie
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WomensRadio live radio interview 2009
Amanda Abizaid talks about her plans, influences and mission for her music.
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Bryan Farrish Radio Promotion "This Life" Review Amanda Abizaid
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Amanda’s new album is a wonderful compilation of Adult Contemporary music with an impressive range o...Amanda’s new album is a wonderful compilation of Adult Contemporary music with an impressive range of instruments throughout it. Besides the typical guitar, bass, drums, and keys primarily used, there is also a flute, harmonica, saz, and bouzouki present in the album, allowing Amanda’s foreign roots to be represented in her music. Amanda has the capability to dissect each smaller concept in a song, and turn it into an overall theme about living life “undivided.” Her musical talent is apparent through tracks such as, “Blue Star Red Sky,” “This Life,” and Undivided.” She has strong qualities in her voice linking her to other powerful woman songwriters, such as Alanis Morisette and Annie Lennox.
Track 1: “Blue Star Red Sky” has strong ambient/electronica influence with a good use of effects, and production to create an interesting track. Amanda’s vocals overlap with her low speaking parts, generating a spiritual and haunting sound.
Track 3: “Undivided” features Amanda on the flute, as well as the guitar, and also includes several percussion instruments, and the keys to produce a well-rounded ensemble for the song. The guitars and bass give the listener a balanced rock sound, while the other instruments add more soul to the track.
Track 6: “This Life” has a stronger rock/pop influence to it, and demonstrates how Amanda’s voice is enough to prevail in a song without as many effects and different instruments. Here, all Amanda needs is a solid guitar, bass, drums, and keys to set the stage for her empowering chorus.
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Ramblings of a girl who just wants to write Wordpress.com UK
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With a back catalogue including songs that have been used all over US TV including E4 favourites One...With a back catalogue including songs that have been used all over US TV including E4 favourites One Tree Hill and Smallville along with a previous release being the theme tune to the Sci Fi series The 4400, Amanda Abizaid remains an unknown name here in the UK. I think she deserves to have a bigger fan base over here, especially with the upcoming release of This Life.
Abizaid has a soft voice; the vocals that almost sound as though they come with built in echoes. Of course, effects have been used to enhance this voice but the natural talent is evident from the very first track on this eight song album. Blue Star Red Sky has been mixed to create a sense of a lot going on behind the vocals. Whilst this isn’t something I’m desperately fond of – I’m all for the voice, deservedly, being the centrepiece – it works in this track.
Undivided is more favourable for me because of the husky vocals and the use of the flute. Yes, that’s right – the instrument I once gained passes up to Grade 2 in is being used in this record. Anyway, that’s enough of my musical history, the lyrics tell their own intriguing story here which always scores brownie points in my book..
Both Believe It and This Life show the stronger side to Abizaid’s vocals. Without too many competing sounds, her voice sounds much more powerful and is generally more pleasant. And the latter has a lovely chorus that you can’t help but sing-along to – much to the despair of those around me as I belt it out at a far less impressive standard.
It’s the last track, My Friend, which I particularly enjoyed for its slow tempo and solemn tones. The verses gradually build up to the chorus, singing of poison being turned into medicine – oh, how I love a good metaphor!
Overall, it’s a short, but sweet, album from the Lebanon born singer songwriter. I’d have liked a few more tracks with some simple vocals that weren’t being hidden by effects, but I can’t really complain.
This Life is released on 15th September?www.amandaabizaid.com
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Bird in the Tree
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Given her cosmopolitan upbringing, experience as a runway model, actress, and back up singer as well...Given her cosmopolitan upbringing, experience as a runway model, actress, and back up singer as well as songwriter and band leader, one might ask whether there was any talent Amanda Abizaid didn't possess. Regardless, all are put to good effect on her new Cd "This Life" which the Los Angeles based artist will celebrate Wednesday, August 25. Having met Amanda at last year's IndieGrrl Music Conference in Nashville, I was curious to ask her about the Cd, what led her to LA, and what audiences can expect at the show.
Q: You have a seriously cosmopolitan background? How do the various countries you've lived in inform your work? AA: I write from experiences, dreams, memories and certainly what I’m feeling or going through at the moment. My lyrics tell the story and the instrumentation is very visual to me. Currently, I’ve been influenced by my roots in Lebanon and really like to push the boundaries of my Americana style.
Q: Was it an easy or hard choice to move to LA?
AA: It was so easy. I was living in Miami, working as a runway model in a big couture show when I got to the end of the runway and just wanted to start singing to everyone. Of course, I didn’t, but I could no longer put off my dream of being a singer, so I made a plan and moved to LA.
Q: You've been singing since childhood and have been a back up singer for many other acts. What was it like to transition to leading your own project? AA: When I got to LA, I was really comfortable with being a back up singer as harmonies come very naturally to me. Working with other artists helped me meet new fans and gain experience on stage. This prepared me for when I started to sing lead on my own songs.
Q: How would you describe your upcoming release? Were the songs written all at once/as a project or have you collected them over time? AA: I have been writing these songs for the last 4 years. I write randomly all the time and never know where and if a song belongs on an album. Sometimes it will take one song to make me realize I have an album. For my new release, “This Life” that song was “My Friend.” Then it became clear which songs belonged together to form the new album.
Q: You've got national distribution and a sponsor? How did those things come about? AA: A few years ago, while I was looking for a manager online, I randomly found IDC (Independent Distribution Collective) based in San Fransisco. We hit it off on the phone and they were excited about all the songs I had sung for TV. They offered to distribute my last CD “The Great Plan Vol. II” and that is how it all began. Determination and persistence is how I have found other people to be involved in my music. This has not been an easy task and I work very hard at it everyday.
Q: What have you got planned for your record release party at Cafe Cordiale? AA: Lot’s of fun things. I’ll be performing with all of my band mates and I booked some really talented friends of mine to open for me. There will be CD’s for sale and other raffles that will be going on, too. It should be a great night of music all around.
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Amanda Abizaid * LA Fashion Corner 2008 Red Carpet Benefiting RAINN
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RED CARPET INTERVIEW FOR (THE 4400)"A PLACE IN TIME"
Amanda Abizaid * LA Fashion Corner 2008 Red Ca...RED CARPET INTERVIEW FOR (THE 4400)"A PLACE IN TIME"
Amanda Abizaid * LA Fashion Corner 2008 Red Carpet Benefiting RAINN
SINGING ACAPELLA
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New York Post
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August 28th, 2005
"I'd like to thank two singers- one named Sia and the other named Amanda Abizaid-...August 28th, 2005
"I'd like to thank two singers- one named Sia and the other named Amanda Abizaid- for making TV all the more memorable this summer.
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The 4400 Official Companion Book
"Singer, composer and musician Amanda Abizaid is a consummate artist."
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Amanda Abizaid at the WGA/INTERSCOPE PRE-OSCAR GIFTING SUITE
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Amanda Abizaid at the WGA/INTERSCOPE PRE-OSCAR GIFTING SUITE talking about her CD, "The Great Plan V...Amanda Abizaid at the WGA/INTERSCOPE PRE-OSCAR GIFTING SUITE talking about her CD, "The Great Plan Vol. II and about the theme song "A Place In Time" from Paramount's "The 4400"
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Whisperin & Hollerin (UK)
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"The Great Plan Vol. II should be of interest to completists of The 4400 but also to anybody yearnin..."The Great Plan Vol. II should be of interest to completists of The 4400 but also to anybody yearning for some well-crafted and emotionally resonant pop/rock as well”
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Shotgun Reviews
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“Abizaid decides to take the road not taken, leaving behind the blandness of TV soundtracks for a pe...“Abizaid decides to take the road not taken, leaving behind the blandness of TV soundtracks for a personal and intimate album that you could watch the stars with”
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The Valley Reporter
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The Big Picture had a special musical guest take the stage as one of her stops while touring solo ac...The Big Picture had a special musical guest take the stage as one of her stops while touring solo across the United States.
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LBCI(Lebanese Broadcast Channel International) Min Loubnan (From Lebanon)
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We are honored to add your name
among those personalities, so
that Lebanese youth can discover
...We are honored to add your name
among those personalities, so
that Lebanese youth can discover
people like you and their achievements in different fields.
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KAZI - FM 88.7
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The 4400 on USA Network
This song was an excellent choice for this show and you did a great job.
...The 4400 on USA Network
This song was an excellent choice for this show and you did a great job.
Bobby Joiner
Austin, Tx
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SCAT TV Station
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I hope that you can officially release "A Place In Time" - it's a great
tune. In fact I enjoy all...I hope that you can officially release "A Place In Time" - it's a great
tune. In fact I enjoy all of your music - I look forward to getting your CD.
Keep up the great work!
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Soundwave FM
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Indeed a CD for a selected market.
Great content.., my favourite is "Facing the lion"..
there is ...Indeed a CD for a selected market.
Great content.., my favourite is "Facing the lion"..
there is an inner strength portrayed
within the music, and this is confirmed
throughout the remaining tracks on
this CD. Will keep featuring it on the
air here in Napier.
Great work Kind Regards
Graham@soundwavefm.co.nz
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“Sunny Breeze” Belarus radio station
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Playlist 06.02.2007
Amanda Abizaid, The Great Plan Vol. II
“The Great Plan Vol. II”
“Corrupted” ...Playlist 06.02.2007
Amanda Abizaid, The Great Plan Vol. II
“The Great Plan Vol. II”
“Corrupted”
“Facing The Lion”
“I Miss You”
P.S. Can I ask you to
send me one more copy
(maybe signed) of this your truly
wonderful CD?
supersonic
