Tuesday, September 29, 2015

"Street Dogs" Out by Widespread Panic

Widespread Panic recorded their new Street Dogs as a band, live in the studio, for the first time. The result is the most fun the veteran sextet has had making an album, which is apparent upon first listen. Widespread Panic’s large and loyal legions of fans have waited five years, since the release of 2010’s critically acclaimed Dirty Side Down, for a new offering from the group, and the ten tracks on Street Dogs are sure to reward their patience, and likely turn on a few more.

For almost 30 years, Widespread Panic (currently guitarist/singer John Bell, bassist Dave Schools, drummer Duane Trucks, percussionist Domingo "Sunny" Ortiz, keyboardist John "JoJo" Hermann, and guitarist Jimmy Herring) has been known for their masterful improvisational style, but their core has always been built around songwriting. Incorporating a vast range of styles, Panic’s songs run the gamut from compelling narratives to poignant ballads to southern blues to progressive jazz and rock. Street Dogs is a testament to how a veteran band can remain vibrant, relevant and continue to progress. The folk/jazz infused "Angels Don’t Sing The Blues”, the flowing "Poorhouse of Positive Thinking”, the boogie blues of "Street Dogs for Breakfast” and the epic New Orleans inspired "Cease Fire”, with it’s Radiohead-like interlude, have a swing and a swagger the runs through much of the album. Panic’s rock and blues roots shine brightly on renditions Alan Price’s "Sell Sell”, Murray McLauchlan’s "Honky Red” and Willie Dixon’s "Taildragger”, made famous by Howlin’ Wolf.

100+ Song "Frank Sinatra:A Voice on the Air" Releasing in November


In a matter befitting the 100th birthday of an American icon, Sony Music's Legacy Recordings announces the November 20th, 2015 release of Frank Sinatra: A Voice on Air (1935-1955), a historic 100+ track, 4-CD deluxe box set culled from an invaluable collection of rare radio broadcasts and rehearsals – immaculately restored from the original recording masters for unprecedented high-fidelity sound.

Luxuriously packaged with a 60-page book, Frank Sinatra: A Voice on Air (1935-1955) is an essential addition to Sinatra's voluminous discography, offering a unique glimpse into the formative period of America's first teen idol: Frank Sinatra, the man who became known the world over as "The Voice." Included in the book are an introductory essay by renowned singer, pianist and archivist Michael Feinstein; a personal remembrance by Frank's eldest daughter Nancy Sinatra and detailed essay by foremost Sinatra historian, author and box set producer Charles L. Granata. The package was designed by noted Art Director Maria Marulanda, who created the landmark 2007 Columbia/Legacy box set Frank Sinatra: A Voice in Time.

In assembling this groundbreaking box set marking the first official release anthologizing Frank Sinatra's seminal radio performances, the producers have mined treasures from their own extensive Sinatra broadcast transcription collections and the world's most prestigious archives and sound recording repositories including The Library of Congress, the New York Public Library for the Performing Arts at Lincoln Center, the Paley Center for Media, the Michael Feinstein Great American Songbook Initiative archive and The University of Colorado's Glenn Miller Archive. Included are dozens of rare photographs and recording artifacts that help to illustrate the scope of Sinatra's incredible radio career.

Mississippi Grind Rolls Onto DVD/BD

Two friends go for broke in the high-risk world of gambling when Mississippi Grind arrives on Blu-ray (plus Digital HD) and DVD (plus Digital) December 1 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. Starring Ryan Reynolds (The Proposal) and Ben Mendelsohn (The Dark Knight Rises), Mississippi Grind is a thrilling road trip down the Mississippi river as two men lay it all out for the chance to win the prize of a lifetime. Written and directed by the Indie Spirit Award nominees team of Anna Boden & Ryan Fleck (Best Feature, Half Nelson, 2007), the film premiered at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival and was released theatrically by A24 Films. Mississippi Grind includes a behind-the-scenes featurette and will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $24.98 and $19.99, respectively.

Down-­on-­his-­luck gambler Gerry (Mendelsohn) and his hot-­‐streak buddy Curtis (Reynolds) hit
the road for New Orleans, on the hunt for the big payday. On riverboats and racetracks they chase women and thrills—before risking it all in the wager of their lives.

Friday, September 25, 2015

"MY ITALIAN SECRET: FORGOTTEN HEROES OF THE HOLOCAUST” WITNESSES THE COURAGEOUS ACTS OF A FEW TO SAVE MANY





Public Media Distribution, announced today it is releasing “MY ITALIAN SECRET: FORGOTTEN HEROES OF THE HOLOCAUST” on DVD November 10, 2015. Would you risk your life to save a stranger? This program tells the story of cycling idol Gino Bartali, Dr. Giovanni Borromeo, and other courageous Italians who carried out ingenious schemes to rescue Jews, partisans, and refugees from Nazi-occupied Italy.

Celebrated as a Tour de France champion, Gino Bartali’s most daring triumph came when he risked his life to save Italian Jews by smuggling fake identification documents in the frame of his bicycle. Dr. Borromeo invented a fictitious disease to scare the SS away from the hospital where he was hiding Jews.

Wednesday, September 23, 2015

Tim McCraw's "Damn Country Music" Out in November

To McGraw, his new album’s title track is reflective of the entire record’s tone and his musical journey thus far. “When I recorded ‘Damn Country Music,’ it was one of those electric moments. It speaks to a passion and being at a crossroads in your life when you make that decision to pursue it knowing you might pay a heavy price,” says McGraw. The November release of Damn Country Music will cap off an exceptional year for McGraw, which began with a critically-acclaimed & trending performance of “I’m Not Gonna Miss You” from Glen Campbell: I’ll Be Me at the 87th Academy Awards on February 22.

In April, McGraw was included on TIME 100 – Time Magazine’s list of the 100 most influential people – and narrated the ESPN Films & SEC Network documentary Shaq & Dale, which detailed the enduring relationship between basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal and his former Louisiana State University coach Dale Brown. Continuing to bolster his film career, McGraw starred in Disney’s Tomorrowland in May before kicking off his wildly successful Shotgun Rider tour in June. The tour thrilled thousands of fans and awarded mortgage-free homes to veterans through McGraw’s partnership with Operation Home front & Chase in more than 30 cities throughout the summer. The tour will conclude on September 19 in Irvine, CA to a sold-out crowd.

"A CHEF’S LIFE HOLIDAY SPECIAL" from PBS in November!

PBS Distribution announced today it is releasing “A CHEF’S LIFE HOLIDAY SPECIAL” on DVD November 3, 2015. This holiday season, the popular series A Chef’s Life invites viewers on a journey to discover and rediscover holiday traditions. Chef Vivian Howard hosts a holiday to remember at her home in Eastern North Carolina as she creates a Southern holiday feast steeped in her family’s Christmas and Chanukah traditions.

Having spent most of her adult life in the kitchens of highly-lauded restaurants, Vivian has rarely celebrated the holidays during busy Decembers. This year, she and her husband Ben Knight are determined to give their toddler twins a traditional holiday experience, cooking, laughing, and yes, crying their way through Southern traditions new and old. In the program Vivian discovers that mistletoe is traditionally shot out of a pecan tree, experiences her first hog killing, and leads a “tacky Christmas sweater” night with the restaurant staff at Chef and the Farmer.

 “A CHEF’S LIFE HOLIDAY SPECIAL” will be available on DVD November 3, 2015. The run time of this program is approximately 60 minutes and its SRP is $24.99. The program will also be available for digital download.

Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Chris Isaak Readies November "First Comes the Night" Release

Chris Isaak’s  new album FIRST COMES THE NIGHT,  produced by Paul  Worley (Dixie Chicks, Lady Antebellum), Dave Cobb (Jason Isbell) and longtime Isaak collaborator Mark Needham, will be released on Vanguard Records on November 13, 2015.

Recorded primarily in Nashville and Los Angeles, FIRST COMES THE NIGHT is Isaak’s 13th studio album consisting of twelve new songs.  A second configuration, a deluxe version with five additional cuts, will be released simultaneously.

This new set marks Isaak’s first recording of all original songs in over six years. FIRST COMES THE NIGHT is the follow-up release to Isaak’s critically acclaimed 2011 BEYOND THE SUN, his breathtaking tribute album to Sun Records, Sam Phillips and the visionary artists who helped shape the early sounds of rock ’n’ roll.

New Chuggington DVD Pulls in on October 13

Cool high-speed adventure is on the way to preschoolers nationwide with the newest “Chuggington” DVD, “Chuggington: The Big Freeze”!  The latest release in the popular DVD collection from Anchor Bay Entertainment is jam-packed with six fun-filled adventures, including a never before seen holiday special episode from the top-rated Disney Junior series.  “The Big Freeze” pulls in  on October 13, 2015, just in time to help families from coast-to-coast celebrate the season, Chuggington style!

The chuggers perform one heroic rescue after another in this cool new seasonal collection of “Chuggington” adventures! When icy temperatures cause the town to run out of fuel and all diesel engines are grounded, it’s wheels-to-the-rails as Chief Jackman and his team of brave Chug Patrollers work together to find a way to the frozen docks to retrieve fuel and get the town of Chuggington moving once again. Fans can join Fletch as he tries to repair the lighthouse, chug along with Calley as she tests to become a first responder, watch as Brewster gets closer to being a Chuggineer, and more! “The Big Freeze” will help teach little chuggers nationwide important lessons about safety, responsibility and teamwork as they ride alongside their favorite friends, Wilson, Koko, Brewster, and Asher!

"Some Kind of Beautiful' Arrives December 1

From the director of What Happens In Vegas, comes a hilarious romantic comedy about finding love in all the wrong places as Some Kind of Beautiful arrives on Blu-ray (plus Digital HD) and DVD (plus Digital) on December 1, 2015 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment.  Starring an exceptional cast including Pierce Brosnan (Die Another Day), Salma Hayek (Frida) and Jessica Alba (Sin City franchise), life is about to get complicated in this charming love triangle. 

Richard (Brosnan) is a successful college professor who gives up a steady stream of one-night-stands and beautiful undergrads for fatherhood with much younger Kate (Alba). Three years later when Kate falls in love with someone else and moves out, she sends her sister, Olivia (Hayek), to make sure Richard is properly caring for their son. Assuming Richard is back to his irresponsible playboy lifestyle, Olivia is shocked when she starts to fall in love with him herself.

The Some Kind of Beautiful home entertainment release includes an in depth behind-the-scenes featurette with interviews with the cast and crew. The Blu-ray and DVD will be available for the suggested retail prices of $19.99 and $19.98, respectively.

Monday, September 21, 2015

THE GIFT to be Presented on DVD/BD This November 3

Revenge comes in an artfully wrapped package in The Gift, a chilling psychological thriller available on Blu-ray and DVD on November 3, 2015 for public libraries from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. The Gift is a suspenseful and thrilling morality tale that earned a "Certified Fresh" seal on Rotten Tomatoes with a remarkable score of 93%. The Blu-ray and DVD are packed with chilling bonus features including a riveting alternate ending, deleted scenes, feature commentary with writer and director Joel Edgerton, and more.

The Gift asks the question, "Can you really go through life having never wronged anyone?" Simon (Jason Bateman) and Robyn (Rebecca Hall) are a young married couple whose life is going as planned until a chance run-in with Simon's high-school acquaintance sends their world into a narrowing tailspin. At first Simon doesn't recognize Gordo (Joel Edgerton), but after a series of uninvited encounters and mysterious gifts prove troubling, a horrifying secret from the past is uncovered after more than 20 years. As Robyn learns the unsettling truth about what happened between Simon and Gordo, she is forced to contemplate: how well do we really know those closest to us, and are bygones ever really bygones?

Thursday, September 17, 2015

MAX Arrives on October 27 from Warner Home Entertainment

From Warner Home Entertainment comes Max, a family action adventure from writer/director Boaz Yakin (Remember the Titans, Fresh) releasing on DVD/BD on October 27.

A precision-trained military dog, Max serves on the frontlines in Afghanistan alongside his handler, U.S. Marine Kyle Wincott. But when things go terribly wrong on maneuvers, Kyle is mortally wounded and Max, traumatized by the loss of his best friend, is unable to remain in service.

Sent stateside, the only human he seems willing to connect with is Kyle’s teenage brother, Justin, so Max is saved when he is adopted by Kyle’s family. But Justin has issues of his own, including living up to his father’s expectations, and he isn’t interested in taking responsibility for his brother’s troubled dog. However, Max may be Justin’s only chance to discover what really happened to his brother that day on the front, and with the help of Carmen, a tough-talking young teen who has a way with dogs, Justin begins to appreciate his canine companion.

Justin’s growing trust in Max helps the four-legged veteran revert back to his heroic self, and as the pair race to unravel the mystery, they find more excitement—and danger—than they bargained for. But they each might also find an unlikely new best friend…in each other.







Tuesday, September 15, 2015

THE BEATLES’ VIDEOS AND TOP HITS COME TOGETHER FOR THE FIRST TIME !

After The Beatles stopped touring, and because traveling around the globe to promote new releases was impossible, the band increasingly made what could be described as “mini movies.” These pioneering promotional films and videos helped to define the way we have come to watch music, not least because The Beatles approached filming with the same ease and innovative spirit they brought to the recording studio, exploring new creative possibilities with infectious delight. Showcasing the band’s filmed work to accompany their 27 No.1 U.K. and U.S. singles, The Beatles 1 is newly restored and expanded in multiple configurations for global release on November 6 by Apple Corps Ltd/UMG.

 The 27-track CD/DVD and CD/Blu-ray pairs beautifully restored videos for each song with new stereo and 5.1 Dolby Digital and DTS HD surround audio mixes. The brand new Beatles 1+ celebrates their career in over 200 minutes through 50 promotional films and videos. This includes the 27 No.1s, with the restored videos, along with a second disc of 23 videos, including alternate versions, as well as rarely seen and newly restored films and videos; all include new audio mixes in deluxe CD/2DVD and CD/2Blu-ray packages. The 27-track audio CD is also being made available with new stereo mixes. A 2LP, 180-gram vinyl package release will follow.

The new editions of The Beatles 1 have been made possible following extensive research, and restoration of the original promo films, classic television appearances and other carefully selected videos spanning the band’s history. Apple Corps dug deep into The Beatles’ vaults to select a broad range of films and videos for their rarity, historical significance and quality of performance. An 18-person team of film and video technicians and restoration artists was assembled by Apple Corps to undertake painstaking frame-by-frame cleaning, color-grading, digital enhancement and new edits that took months of dedicated, ‘round-the-clock work to accomplish.

Downton Abbey Seasons 1-5 Set Announced for DVD/BD


Our friends at PBS Distribution informed us today that they will release “DOWNTON ABBEY SEASONS 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5” on DVD and Blu-ray this October.   Led by Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, and Maggie Smith, the acclaimed ensemble cast brings to life all the drama and intrigue of the inhabitants of Downton Abbey, the lavish English country manor, home to the Earl of Grantham. This limited edition box set, available just in time for the holidays, includes every episode of the first five seasons of this Golden Globe and multi-Emmy Award-winning series, following the Crawley family and their servants from pre-war England through the storms of World War I, and into the social, political and technological upheaval of England in the 1920s. The lives of Downton’s inhabitants are shaped by romance, heartbreak, scandals, rumors, blackmail, and betrayal.

DOWNTON ABBEY SEASONS 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5” will be available on DVD and Blu-ray October 27, 2015. The run time of “DOWNTON ABBEY SEASONS 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5” is approximately 50 hours on 15 discs for the DVD and 14 discs for the Blu-ray. The DVD SRP is $99.99 and the Blu-ray SRP is $109.99. These prices represent a more than 40 percent savings from the SRP if all five seasons were purchased separately. This set includes the original UK edition of the series as well as more than four hours of previously released bonus video.

Monday, September 14, 2015

"Billy Elliot : The Musical Live" Dances onto DVD, BD

A heartwarming story of a working-class boy in a British mining town who longs to dance, Billy Elliot: The Musical Live debuts on Blu-ray and DVD on October 13, 2015, from Universal Pictures Home Entertainment. Based on the Oscar-nominated film, Billy Elliot: The Musical Live was filmed at the Victoria Palace Theatre in London's famed West End and features a soaring score by Sir Elton John (The Lion King, Aida) that captures all of the excitement, emotion and passion that has sold out theaters worldwide since the musical's 2000 debut.

Based on the beloved film and winner of 10 Tony Awards including Best Musical, Billy Elliot: The Musical Live is a celebration of one of the world's most popular and successful stage shows. A modern-day fairy tale of a young boy who exchanges boxing gloves for ballet shoes, Billy's story is set during the 1980's coal-miners' strike in northern England, where his determination inspires an entire community. From the creative team behind the original film and legendary songwriter Elton John, this story of self-discovery, determination, love and hope is brought to life in a funny, uplifting and spectacular event viewers will want to experience again and again!

Saturday, September 12, 2015

Elvis Costello Memoir and Companion Album Release News

Elvis Costello has compiled a 38-track, 2-CD set 'Unfaithful Music & Soundtrack Album' (UMe, October 9 release) as a companion to his memoir "Unfaithful Music & Disappearing Ink" (Blue Rider Press/Penguin Random House, October 13th).

Costello has chosen songs that offer the deepest emotional connection to the themes and stories in his book. The set includes both hits and rarities including two previously-unreleased titles: "April 5th", written and recorded with Rosanne Cash, Kris Kristofferson and John Leventhal - and one of Costello's earliest solo recordings, "I Can't Turn It Off," from 1975.

The collection also features three exclusive "audio book sketches" that do not appear in the published memoir. and a twenty eight page booklet providing the complete lyrics and many unseen photographs, several of them from the MacManus family album.

Friday, September 11, 2015

Yo Yo Ma and Kathryn Scott Release "Songs from the Arc of Life"

"I like to think of Songs from the Arc of Life as an invitation to our audience to remember and imagine what the soundtracks of their lives might be," Yo-Yo Ma says.  "Kathy and I have talked for years about recording an album of music we absolutely love, pieces that express the context of a life, of our lives.  Childhood, adolescence, young adulthood, middle age, old age: what do they sound like?"

"I love this title," Stott says, "the 'Arc of Life' – because it is one big arc. Once we arrived at the idea, we began to see a beautiful story, a journey through life's experiences. It has taken us a long time and much discussion, back and forth, to discover what that journey might be, because everyone's journey is slightly different."

Songs from the Arc of Life begins and ends with two, much-beloved settings of the traditional "Ave Maria," opening with the soaring, radiant Bach/Gounod arrangement and closing with Schubert's more serene, contemplative version.


The Arcs Release "Outta My Mind" Video - WATCH

The Arcs, whose debut album, Yours, Dreamily, was released last week on Nonesuch Records, have unveiled the video for the album's first single, "Outta My Mind." The video, directed by Nick Walker, premiered on The Huffington Post, which says of the album: "A dreamy gift of garage blues wrapped in fuzzy, soulful guitar, the album is a refreshing shift from Auerbach that you'll want to keep on repeat all weekend long." You can watch the video below from B&T:



Yours, Dreamily, is New York NPR member station WFUV's New Dig of the week."Since the paths of these musicians have crossed many times over the years, they have a natural rapport," WFUV's Darren DeVivo writes of the band: Dan Auerbach, Leon Michels, Richard Swift, Homer Steinweiss, and Nick Movshon. "Synthetic, electronic grooves, augmented by a smattering of loops and samples, weave in and out of the album. Auerbach’s elastic vocals are at the core while his wiry guitar buzzes and twirls around funky retro-‘70s melodies ... [I]t’s pretty clear that the guitarist, singer and songwriter relishes the chance to show an entirely different side of his rock ‘n’ roll temperament."

End of the Tour Checks in This November

Jason Segel “is a revelation” (Entertainment Weekly) in his transformation into best-selling author

David Foster Wallace in The End of the Tour, arriving on Blu-ray and DVD on November 3 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment. Directed by James Ponsoldt (The Spectacular Now), written for the screen by Donald Margulies (Play “Dinner with Friends”), and based on the book Although Of Course You End Up Becoming Yourself: A Road Trip with David Foster Wallace by David Lipsky, the “intimate and insightful” (Los Angeles Times) film co-stars Academy Award nominee Jesse Eisenberg (Best Actor, The Social Network, 2010) as reporter and aspiring author David Lipsky.

Winner of Best Narrative Feature at the Sarasota Film Festival, the film was released theatrically by A24 and is Certified Fresh by Rotten Tomatoes.  The End of the Tour will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail prices of $24.99 and $19.98, respectively. 

Yep Roc To Release ‘Sam Phillips: The Man Who Invented Rock ‘n’ Roll’ 2CD/3LP Collection Curated By Peter Guralnick

On October 30, 2015 Yep Roc will release ‘Sam Phillips: The Man Who Invented Rock ‘n’ Roll,’ a companion release to Peter Guralnick’s forthcoming biography of the same name, and a personal, idiosyncratic survey of one of the most important bodies of work in recording history. The 2CD/3LP set features songs hand-selected by Guralnick, who also wrote an exclusive track-by-track essay for the release. Mostly spanning the years 1950 – 1961, the set shines a light on Phillips’ unique approach to recording, his cosmic genius, and revolutionary role in the evolution of blues, country, r&b, gospel and the birth of rock ‘n’ roll.

Featuring big hits, near misses, and never-even-close tracks by Elvis Presley, Howlin’ Wolf, Johnny Cash, B.B. King, Jerry Lee Lewis, Charlie Rich, Carl Perkins, Roy Orbison, and scores of other singular artists, ‘Sam Phillips’ delivers, in his own words, “individualism in the extreme.”

“Sam believed most of all in perfect imperfection,” Guralnick writes, adding “every track on this collection celebrates, whether intentionally or not, the diversity and beauty and rawness, the grandness and intimacy and comic and tragic drama of the human experience.”

Thursday, September 10, 2015

99 Good Deeds Charitable Event for BroadGreen's 99 HOMES

BroadGreen Pictures announced the launch of 99 Homes: 99 Good Deeds, a charitable initiative to encourage people to perform one good deed to help a member of their community and to underscore the positive impact that even the smallest amounts of assistance can have.

The launch comes just ahead of the release of the studio's upcoming film 99 Homes which debuts in theatres on September 25, then  expanding nationwide on October 9. In collaboration with local organizations in 20 cities throughout the United States, Broad Green Pictures will perform 99 good deeds, including holding benefit screenings of the film in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Washington DC and Detroit.  The partner organizations include:

Frank Zappa's "Roxy :The Movie" to Arrive on DVD/BD

On October 30, Eagle Rock Entertainment and Zappa's Honker Home Video will issue the never-before-released Frank Zappa’s Roxy : The Movie on DVD & Blu-Ray with an exclusive Soundtrack included.

A Frank Zappa show goes way beyond a mere concert,  it is an experience…a flight of improvisation, musicianship, and cerebral cynicism. An unparalleled Composer and Guitarist, Zappa redefined rock n roll paradigms by introducing into the mix his favorite influences from classical music, jazz, blues, doowop, traditional and non-traditional music. And he did so with unparalleled humor and audacity. But it was the music itself that influenced generations of musicians and, quite frankly, blew minds. Roxy: The Movie, filmed over three nights in December 1973, at the Roxy Theatre in Hollywood, CA, is a powerful display of this experience, and reveals what made him such a pioneering musical revolutionary.

Right from the top of the program, the film exudes the essence of Zappa, as we only see a dark room with a single light, and we hear him commiserating with the audience, as he stalls for time because of technical snafus that would ultimately force the film into hibernation for decades (make that eras in musical terms) while advancement in technology aligned allowing the Zappa Family Trust to bring this project to a patient and deserving audience. The curtain goes up and the magic unravels to reveal “Cosmic Debris” and we are up and away with one of the most enduring band line-ups under Frank Zappa's leadership.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015

AMY, Amy Winehouse Doc Set for December DVD/BD Release

The much-anticipated, spellbinding documentary chronicling the rise and tragic fall of Amy Winehouse; one of the most legendary singers of our time, AMY will arrives on Blu-ray and DVD on December 1, 2015 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment.

From the award-winning director of Senna, and featuring raw footage of Winehouse, this “extraordinary, powerful” (Indiewire) film is the best-performing box office biographical documentary to date this year, and features never-before-seen footage of the talented singer (including collaborations with her musical idol Tony Bennett and producer Mark Ronson) along with interviews with her closest friends and family, as well as previously unreleased music recordings. Certified Fresh by Rotten Tomatoes, this intimate, shocking, and brilliant film was a Cannes Film Festival Official Selection, and was released theatrically in 2015 by A24. Featuring audio commentary by the director, never before seen performances by Winehouse and deleted scenes, AMY will be available on Blu-ray and DVD for the suggested retail price of $19.98 and $24.99, respectively.

VICIOUS 2 Out Now on DVD !





PBS Distribution today released“VICIOUS 2” on DVD. The second season of “VICIOUS” continues to follow the loving yet brutally barbed relationship between Freddie Thornhill (Ian McKellen) and Stuart Bixby (Derek Jacobi). Together for 50 years, Freddie and Stuart still live in the same flat and are surrounded by their long-term friends. As our characters return, so does their deadly, cutting humor. “VICIOUS” is back, and it’s as raucous and hilarious as ever.

“VICIOUS 2” is available on DVD TODAY, September 8, 2015. The run time of this program is approximately 180 minutes and the DVD SRP is $29.99. Special features include The Making of Series 2, interviews with the cast and crew, and more.

“VICIOUS” returns with Freddie and Stuart delivering more biting remarks, snide comments and cruel asides. Joined by friends Violet (Frances de la Tour, Harry Potter and The Goblet of Fire), Ash (Iwan Rheon, Game of Thrones), Penelope (Marcia Warren, Leap Year), Mason (Philip Voss, Four Weddings and A Funeral, Octopussy) and surprise guest characters, the men embark on another season of humorous mishaps, hideous break-ups and heart-warming make-ups. 

Sunday, September 6, 2015

John Boorman's "Queen & Country" Arrives on DVD

Based on Boorman’s early adult years, this moving and funny film follows Bill Rohan,  child of the Blitz,  as he comes of age while the country is drawn into the Korean War. At boot camp, Bill and his new buddies master the art of poking fun at petty tyrants and hunger for weekend leave with local beauties.

Legendary, internationally-renowned Academy Award nominated director John Boorman (Deliverance) concludes a career spanning more than 50 years with his final film, Queen and Country, available on DVD September 8, 2015. This long awaited sequel to the five-time Academy Award nominated Hope and Glory has been hailed as “riveting” and “a privilege” by the San Francisco Chronicle, and is a fitting end to the career of a masterful director.

Savor this poignant and powerful mix of laughter, longing, and the launch of adulthood in a time of war, starring Callum Turner (The Borgias, Ripper Street), Caleb Landry Jones (X-Men: First Class, No Country for Old Men), David Thewlis (Harry Potter series, War Horse, Naked), Tamsin Egerton (Silent Witness), and the great Richard E. Grant (Downton Abbey, Doctor Who, Withnail and I). 

Sony Pics Updates 2016/17 Theatrical Release Slate

Sony Pictures Entertainment recently unveiled theatrical release dates for sixteen of films for the Culver City CA studio’s 2016 and 2017 slates.

The films compose a diverse, globally oriented mix of films, including new films with franchise potential (The Dark Tower, Uncharted, Patient Zero), established franchises (Bad Boys 3 and 4, Resident Evil, Underworld), adaptations of strong and beloved source material (The Magnificent Seven, Jumanji, Barbie), and daring original films (Passengers, Money Monster, The Shallows, Baby Driver, The Lamb).

These pix join numerous SPE projects already on the studio’s slate, including Ghostbusters (which moves up one week to 7/15/16), the next Spider-Man film (7/28/17), The Equalizer 2 (9/29/17), Dan Brown’s Inferno (10/14/16), Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (11/11/16), and the animated Spider-Man film masterminded by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller (7/20/18.)

Sony Pictures Classics Announces North American Deal for THE MEDDLER

Sony Pictures Classics announced this week that they will theatrically release THE MEDDLER, starring Susan Sarandon, Rose Byrne and J.K. Simmons, in North America. Written and directed by Lorene Scafaria (Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World), the film will have its world premiere at the 2015 Toronto International Film Festival. 

Sony Pictures Worldwide Acquisitions acquired worldwide rights to the film prior to the start of the production and will distribute internationally.

THE MEDDLER follows Marnie Minervini (Susan Sarandon), recent widow and eternal optimist, as she moves from New Jersey to Los Angeles to be closer to her daughter (Rose Byrne). Armed with an iPhone and a full bank account, Marnie sets out to make friends, find her purpose, and possibly open up to someone new.

Rounding out the cast are Cecily Strong ("Saturday Night Live"), Jerrod Carmichael (Neighbors) and Michael McKean ("Better Call Saul"). THE MEDDLER is produced by Joy Gorman Wettels of Anonymous Content, with executive producers Susan Sarandon, and Anonymous’ Paul Green and Steve Golin.  No word yet on release dates, or DVD/Blu-ray information.

SAN ANDREAS Crashing in on DVD/Blu-ray on October 13 from Warner Home Entertainment




After the infamous San Andreas Fault gives, triggering a magnitude 9-plus earthquake in California, a search and rescue helicopter pilot (Dwayne Johnson) and his estranged wife (Carla Gugino) make their way together from Los Angeles to San Francisco to save their only daughter.

But their treacherous journey north is only the beginning. And when they think the worst may be over… it’s just getting started.

The action thriller San Andreas reunites Dwayne Johnson with director Brad Peyton and producer Beau Flynn, following their collaboration on the global hit Journey 2: The Mysterious Island.

Saturday, September 5, 2015

Doc Martin Series 7 Set for December DVD Release

Following the USA Premieres of the BAFTA Award-winning comedy Detectorists and the highly anticipated new Agatha Christie series Partners in Crime, RLJ announced the USA DVD release of  DOC MARTIN, SERIES 7, this December.

Doc Martin stars BAFTA winner Martin Clunes (Arthur & George, Men Behaving Badly, Shakespeare in Love) in an uproarious lead performance as a tactless, self-centered, and uptight doctor in a quirky seaside town in Cornwall.

Called "completely addictive" (Slate) and "absolutely bloody hilarious" (London Evening Standard), Doc Martin has become one of the most successful British series in the U.S. with new fans continuing to discover the series. In the U.K., Doc Martin is one of ITV's highest-rated drama series, while in the U.S. the last season was the #1 show on many public television stations and Acorn's fastest-selling DVD of all-time. The series is also a global phenomenon, having sold to more than 70 countries, with licensed local versions in France, Germany, Spain, Russia, and many more.

Series 7 is shaping up to be another entertaining and eventful visit to Portwenn. The new season begins with Doc Martin alone in Cornwall while Louisa (Caroline Catz, Murder in Suburbia) and their son visit her mother in Spain. Realizing that he needs to make changes for the sake of his marriage, Martin promises Louisa that he will see a therapist and work to win her back. In addition to Martin and Louisa's troubles, the eccentric residents of Portwenn—including fan favorite supporting characters like Bert Large and Mrs. Tishell—face their own trials and tribulations.

Friday, September 4, 2015

Kino Lorber Reveals DEUTCHLAND 83 DVD Release Plans

Kino Lorber proudly announces the DVD release of SundanceTV's DEUTSCHLAND 83, a groundbreaking new eight hour series presented in  partnership with FremantleMedia International. Produced for RTL Television in Germany by UFA Fiction, the producers of the international Emmy award-winning Generation War, DEUTSCHLAND 83 is the first German-language series to be broadcast in the USA.  And it is Kino Lorber's first home entertainment release of an international
TV series.

The DVD, which will be released in the US on September 29th with a SRP of $29.95,
includes all eight episodes on three discs, packed with bonus features including  interviews and a Q&A with the show's cast and creators.  "As a company known for the best in world cinema we could not be more proud to launch our first foray into international TVwith Deutschland '83. Its fascinating narrative, depth of characters, multi-layered historical context and superb production values establish a new benchmark for theso called golden age of television, a series as nourishing intellectually and artistically as it is addictively entertaining. For discriminating viewers, whether binge or
not, this will be time well spent..."

Created by Anna and Jörg Winger, DEUTSCHLAND 83is a coming-of-age story within a  suspenseful thriller, set against the real events, culture wars, and political realities of Germany during the 1980s. Featuring a soundtrack of '80s pop hits from artists such as Nena, Peter Schilling, Duran Duran and more, the series presents  a vivid depiction of Germany at the height of the Cold War, depicting the cultural tensions between the East and West, and presenting a different perspective on similar historical events as seen in the current TV show The Americans. Set against this pivotal moment in modern political history, the series is told from the point of view of a 24-year-old East German soldier who goes undercover in West Germany and encounters a different way of life through his experiences.

Public Image Ltd's New "WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW" Out Today!

PUBLIC IMAGE LTD released their 10th studio album WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW… today, Friday, September 4. The eleven track album, which is getting rave reviews, follows the huge critical success of 2012’s ‘This is PiL’, the band’s first album in 17 years.

Album opener and lead single “Double Trouble” sees the band launching into a statement of intent. Out now, and currently sitting at No.2 in the UK Vinyl SinglesChart and No.3 in the Physical Singles Chart, the 10″ vinyl version will be backed by “Bettie Page” and also come with additional non-album bonus track “Turkey Tits.”

Widely regarded as one of the most innovative and influential bands of all time,PUBLIC IMAGE LTD‘s music and vision earned them 5 UK Top 20 singles and 5 UK Top 20 albums. With a shifting line-up and unique sound, JOHN LYDON guided the band from their debut album ‘First Issue’ in 1978 through to 1992’s That What Is Not. After a 17-year hiatus, LYDON reactivated PiL in 2009 by taking them back on the road worldwide.

Z for Zachariah Arrives on DVD/BD on October 20

Your patrons will be mesmerized by the provocative thriller Z for Zachariah, arriving on Blu-ray and  DVD October 20 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment.  The film delivers stunningly captivating performances, Academy Award nominee Chiwetel Ejiofor (Best Actor, 12 Years a Slave, 2013), Margot Robbie (The Wolf of Wall Street), and Chris Pine (Star Trek franchise) star in this post-apocalyptic tale that pits the world’s last three survivors against one another.

Nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2015 Sundance Film Festival, the film was praised by TwitchFilm as “one of the best of the year,” calling Z for Zachariah “a gem of a film.” Directed by Craig Zobel (Compliance) and written for the screen by Nissar Modi (Gringo Bay), Z for Zachariah is based on the award-winning book by Robert C. O’Brien.

 In the wake of a disaster that wipes out most of civilization, two men and a young woman find themselves in an emotionally charged love triangle as the last known survivors. Chiwetel Ejiofor, Margot Robbie, and Chris Pine deliver steamy, thought-provoking performances in this twist on the post-apocalyptic story.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens OST Announced


 
Announcing the release of the Star Wars: The Force Awakens Soundtrack, on Walt Disney Records !

Lucasfilm and visionary director J.J. Abrams join forces to take you back again to a galaxy far, far away as Star Wars returns to the big screen with Star Wars: The Force Awakens.  Make sure to let your patrons experience the soundtrack by legendary, five-time Academy Award winning composer, John Williams.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens movie and soundtrack release 12/18/15.  Order the CD now from B&T!

More @ Star Wars / B&T AV

U2's The Edge Reflects on New Orleans' Music Rising Charity

10 years ago Hurricane Katrina struck the Gulf Coast, leaving behind a trail of destruction that The Edge of U2 would soon witness firsthand during a visit to New Orleans’ hard hit 9th Ward. Moved by the devastation suffered by the local musical community, Edge teamed with legendary producer Bob Ezrin, Gibson Guitars, MusiCares and the Guitar Center Foundation to provide immediate aid to the musicians whose lives and livelihoods had sustained the most damage when the levees broke. In short order, efforts including donations of net proceeds from the sales of Gibson and Epiphone Music Rising special edition guitars and the providing of musical instruments to professionals whose gear was destroyed in the storm were implemented. In a PSA at the time, Edge explained the helplessness he would have felt in the face of such overwhelming loss as Music Rising replaced thousands of instruments in what would ultimately be the first phase of its still ongoing and continually expanding mission.

Reflecting on the 10-year journey of Music Rising, The Edge commented: Music is at the core of these communities. It’s an essential part of their identities, their hearts and their lives. So when these centers of musical culture are damaged, getting the music going again is a crucial part of the healing process.

With Music Rising, we and our partners continue to do everything in our power to help support this centuries old music culture so it can do its magic for many generations to come.

Peter Frampton's PREMONITION, WHEN ALL the PIECES FIT and NOW Albums Available Again!

After an incredible run through the 1970s on A&M Records, Peter Frampton reemerged in 1986 on a new label, with a new album and single that found him back on the Billboard charts and radios across the world.

Frampton's Premonition and When All The Pieces Fit were re-released on Omnivore Recordings last week,  August 28, 2015 and NOW is out today, September 4.

Premonition was Peter’s first release to make the Billboard Top 100 Albums in five years. Anchored by the mainstream rock hit “Lying,” the record featured a rejuvenated Frampton and nine solid tracks. He shared production duties with GRAMMY®-nominated producer Pete Solley (the Romantics, Motörhead, Oingo Boingo) and was joined by such highly regarded musicians as Steve Ferrone (Average White Band, Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers), Tony Levin (King Crimson), Richard Cottle (Alan Parsons Project), and Omar Hakim (Sting, David Bowie). After Premonition’s release, Frampton joined his friend David Bowie on the latter’s 1987 album Never Let Me Down and its ensuing Glass Spider Tour, another step in his reintroduction to the masses.

Frampton capped off a successful mid-’80s with his tenth studio release, 1989’s When All The Pieces Fit. The album hit the Billboard Top 200, following in the wake of 1986’s Premonition.

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Sleater-Kinney's CARRIE BROWNSTEIN Releases Her Memoir, and Announces Book Tour

Next month, Sleater-Kinney's Carrie Brownstein will release her memoir Hunger Makes Me a Modern Girl via Penguin.  And now, she's announced a North American book tour, with dates at venues across the country but only one is at a public library (Phila.).

Each appearance will feature a guest interviewer, including Questlove, Amy Poehler, Dave Eggers, "Saturday Night Live" cast member Aidy Bryant, actress Gaby Hoffmann, music site Pitchfork Editor Jessica Hopper  and more.

Sleater-Kinney's latest CD release, No Cities to Love is available now from B&T on Sub-Pop Records.

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

"A Walk in the Woods" Original Soundtrack CD Strolling in This Month

Varèse Sarabande will release the A WALK IN THE WOODS – Original Motion Picture Soundtrack on CD September 25, 2015. The album features the new songs “The Birds Are Singing At Night” performed by Lord Huron and “Dead End Street” performed by Blake Mills, with songs from Dwight Yoakam, Chatham County Line, Tim Grimm, and additional tracks from Lord Huron. The album also features two suites of the original score, composed by Nathan Larson (BOYS DON’T CRY, the band Shudder To Think).

In this new comedy adventure film, in theaters today 9/2, celebrated travel writer, Bill Bryson (Academy Award winner Robert Redford), instead of retiring to enjoy his loving and beautiful wife (Academy Award winner Emma Thompson), and large and happy family, challenges himself to hike the Appalachian Trail; 2,190 miles of America's most unspoiled, spectacular and rugged countryside from Georgia to Maine. The peace and tranquility he hopes to find, though, is anything but, once he agrees to being accompanied by the only person he can find willing to join him on the trek - his long lost and former friend Katz (Academy Award nominee Nick Nolte), a down-on-his-luck serial philanderer who, after a lifetime of relying on his charm and wits to keep one step ahead of the law – sees the trip as a way to sneak out of paying some debts and sneak into one last adventure before its too late. The trouble is, the two have a completely different definition of the word, "adventure". Now they're about to find out that when you push yourself to the edge, the real fun begins.

“Our biggest musical challenge was how to represent the majesty of the Appalachian Trail, its jaw-dropping vistas, its forbidding mountains and blessedly untamed wildlife,” said director Ken Kwapis. “The answer came in the form of Lord Huron, whose songs provide a thread throughout Bryson and Katz’s journey.”

Tuesday, September 1, 2015

Downton Abbey, Season 1-5 Set Announced by PBS

PBS Distribution announced today it will release “DOWNTON ABBEY SEASONS 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5” on DVD and Blu-ray. Led by Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, and Maggie Smith, the acclaimed ensemble cast brings to life all the drama and intrigue of the inhabitants of Downton Abbey, the lavish English country manor, home to the Earl of Grantham. This limited edition box set, will include every episode of the first five seasons of this Golden Globe and multi-Emmy Award-winning series, following the Crawley family and their servants from pre-war England through the storms of World War I, and into the social, political and technological upheaval of England in the 1920s. The lives of Downton’s inhabitants are shaped by romance, heartbreak, scandals, rumors, blackmail, and betrayal.

DOWNTON ABBEY SEASONS 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5” will be available on DVD and Blu-ray October 27, 2015. The run time of “DOWNTON ABBEY SEASONS 1, 2, 3, 4 & 5” is approximately 50 hours on 15 discs for the DVD and 14 discs for the Blu-ray. The DVD SRP is $99.99 and the Blu-ray SRP is $109.99. These prices represent a more than 40 percent savings from the SRP if all five seasons were purchased separately. This set includes the original UK edition of the series as well as more than 4 hours of previously released bonus video.

Watch B&T's ordering platforms, Titlesource 3 or 360 for ordering information for your library and stay tuned for Season 5 release info.
 

AEROSMITH Releases "Walk This Way" Clip from Their "ROCKS DONINGTON 2014" Release




AEROSMITH‘s new concert film AEROSMITH ROCKS DONINGTON 2014; a 20-song collection capturing the legendary rock band delivering a scorching career-spanning show at the famed Donington Park in Leicestershire, UK in June 2014, is set for release this Friday (9/4) via Eagle Rock Entertainment.  In advance of the release, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers’ have  premiered a film excerpt of themperforming “Walk This Way”, view above from B&T.

AEROSMITH ROCKS DONINGTON 2014 features the band’s all original members; Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Joey Kramer, Tom Hamilton and Brad Whitford, headlining the massive Download Festival as part of the band’s “Let Rock Rule” tour, unleashing supercharged versions of “Love In An Elevator,” “Janie’s Got A Gun,” “I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing,” “Dude Looks Like A Lady,” “Walk This Way,” “Dream On,” “Sweet Emotion,” “Toys In The Attic,” “Mama Kin,” and many more.

Mr Holmes to DVD and BD on November 10

Oscar nominee Sir Ian McKellen* joins fellow Academy Award nominee Laura Linney** in the mysterious and intriguing Mr. Holmes, arriving on Blu-ray , DVD , November 10 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment and Miramax.

Based on Mitch Cullin’s novel “A Slight Trick of the Mind,” written for the screen by Jeffrey Hatcher (The Duchess), and directed by Academy Award winner Bill Condon (Best Adapted Screenplay, Gods and Monsters, 1998), Mr. Holmes finds a retired Sherlock returning to close the book on the one mystery he could never solve. Winner of the Audience Award for Best Narrative Feature at the 2015 Sydney Film Festival and released theatrically in July by Miramax and Roadside Attractions, the film is Rotten Tomatoes Certified Fresh.