Chrisma (Krisma)

Krisma (formerly Chrisma) is an Italian group which was formed in 1976 by Maurizio Arcieri and his wife Christina Moser. The group started out as electronic disco outfit in the late 70’s and continued to be the leading group of the Italian New wave, successfully releasing several singles and albums during the 80’s decade.

In the same year as the group was formed in 1976, the couple moved from Milan to London to record "U" and "Amore" with the producer Nico Papathanassiou and his brother Vangelis. Their collaboration with Papathanassiou and Vangelis continued through 1977/78. During this time, the duo released the debut album 'Chinese Restaurant' and their the single "Lola" entered the Top 10.

In 1979 Chrisma released their second album 'Hibernation' which brought them international breakthrough. Subsequently the duo moved to London and was firmly established in the London music scene. They caused  a scandal with the single "Aurora B" because the promotional video for the single showed Christina and Maurizio in simulate sexual acts as well as a suicide in a subway station. In 1980 the band officially changed its name from "Chrisma" to Krisma. Their third album, 'Cathode Mamma' featured Hans Zimmer on synthesizer. The single "Many Kisses" was a big hit in Europe. Around this time Krisma developed the first mini sequencer, known as "Krismino". Krisma left Polygram for CGD in 1981.

The year1982 saw the release of the experimental "Clandestine Anticipation" album. The album dealed with water in all of its forms (liquid, ice, vapor, fog, snow and rain) and was supported by a series of videos filmed in tropical locations. The clips were first shown on Carlo Massarini's Mister Fantasy program.

Krisma released another album with the lead single "Nothing To Do With The Dog" before moving to New York City in 1986. They directed three videos for MTV, and soon after they began to work for France 2. In Italy they often appeared on the program "Be Bop a Lula" hosted by Red Ronnie for Italia Uno. The single "Nothing To Do With the Dog" and "Iceberg" were released during this time. In 1988 "Non Ho Denaro" was released. It was their last album to be released on vinyl, and today, it is one of the most obscure Krisma records.

During the 1990s Krisma's first records were remastered. They continued to do freelance work for the Italian state broadcasting company Rai Tre, and they were credited for crafting the special effects on the Marco Ferreri film Nitrato d'Argento. Maurizio and Christina also designed several video-art installations and worked as consultants for Benetton's Centro Ricerca Comunicazione. On July 22, 1998 the couple launched Krisma TV, which was broadcast through the Skyplex satellite service to Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. In June 2000 the band opened their website, www.krismatv.net. Maurizio made a comeback attempt with "Re-Birth," a solo project. The CD single Kara was released in 2001 in both Italian and English versions. Their first two albums 'Hibernation' and 'Chinese Restaurant' were reissued this year by 'Medical Records LLC'.


Note:
The reissue is sold out, but the second pressing will be out early January (black 180gm vinyl this time - limited edition of 500 each)
http://medical-records.org/releases/

Paul Haig- Trip Out The Rider EP

Paul Haig has released a new EP which is available as a digital download through his record label ROLinc. The EP is called 'Trip out The Rider' and contains three tracks and it is out from November 1, 2010. You can preview the songs online.

Visit http://www.rolinc.co.uk/ for additional information.

Next Wave: The Diogenes Club

The Diogenes Club is a synth pop group from Wales. The group consists of Matt Williams and Paul Giles who met in Cardiff for the first time and decided to make music together. Matt plays the instruments while Paul writes lyrics and sings. Their music is melodic synth pop with elements of deep house. In the recent years, they have released several EPs including the most recent one entitled 'Versailles' which is available through their online store on Facebook. 

http://www.facebook.com/
http://www.myspace.com/thediogenesclub

30 Years with Marc Almond

As part of his 30th Anniversary Tour, Marc Almond will perform at the Royal Hall on  November 30, 2010. This tour of 24 UK dates celebrates his 30 years in music, and Marc will be singing only hits and singles, and with the support of a nine-piece band including baby grand piano. The tour also coincides with the release of his Best of album 'My Best Bits & A-Sides'. Tickets will be available through the Villa Marina Box Office from Saturday 27 March 2010.

Tour dates and more

WAW: Mirrors- Into The Heart

Waiting for Human League's Night People

The Human League have updated their brand new official site with the sound sample from the new Human League track "Night People" which is going to be released soon. The countdown clock is currently 17 days away from the release. Enjoy Phil's sample in the meanwhile!

http://www.thehumanleague.co.uk/

The Dears return with Omega Dog

The Dears have announced the release date of their new album entitled 'Degeneration Street'. The album is due to be released on February 15, 2011. The first single from the album "Omega Dog" is available via the Dears digital store.

http://store.thedears.org

Duran Duran- The Chauffeur

This video for The Chauffeur is the only one on the album in which the band do not appear at all. It was filmed around Notting Hill during the autumn of 1982, while the band was away on tour.A moody, elegant black-and-white piece inspired by the fetishistic imagery of Helmut Newton which features two mysterious, hauntingly beautiful women who are seen ritualistically dressing themselves in elaborate lingerie before traveling separately through the dark streets and tunnels of London to meet in a vacant underground car park for an exotic lesbian encounter.

The Melody of Robert Smith

Crystal Castles have teamed up with Robert Smith to record a song which is rumored to be their next single. The song is a track on their second album which was remixed and given a new life with Robert Smith's vocals. "Not In Love" is actually a cover of 80's New wave band Platinum Blonde.  

The Flying Lizards Reissue

Two two key albums by the Flying Lizards will be reissued during November on Cherry Red Records. Founded in 1978 by avant-garde composer and producer David Cunningham as an experimental pop band, The Flying Lizards rode the crest of the New Wave peaking with the international hit single Money. Both, the self titled debut album and 'Fourth Wall' will also feature bonus tracks. Check out the full track listing here.