Further establishing their status as one of the preeminent soul/funk groups in music today, Soulive joins the famed Memphis soul label, Stax Records. The band’s Stax debut, No Place Like Soul, is set for release July 31. The album marks the inaugural release by one of the label’s trio of newly signed artists, which also includes Angie Stone and Isaac Hayes.

Big riffs, massive grooves, and expansive improvisations are the hallmarks of Gov't Mule's legendary live shows. Likewise, their well-crafted songs feature larger-than-life characters bearing life's heaviest burdens, performed by four musicians – guitarist/vocalist Warren Haynes, drummer Matt Abts, keyboard player Danny Louis, and bassist Andy Hess

It's a match made not above nor below, but rather in some altogether hipper, funkier place. We're talking John Medeski, Billy Martin, and Chris Wood (aka Medeski, Martin & Wood), plus guitar guru John Scofield. On their new release Out Louder, they make music not of this world, yet rooted in the earth tones of jazz, funk, and blues. Music from the heart, for the mind, and made to shake the earth, not to mention the body.

On February 21, 2006, Jesse Harris will release 'Mineral,' a strikingly elemental, intimate recording that heralds many firsts for the New York-based Grammy winner. Not only is it the debut release on his own independent label, Secret Sun Recordings, but after five albums with his beloved band The Ferdinandos, 'Mineral' marks Harris' first recording in a trio setting; backed by organ/piano master Larry Goldings (John Scofield, Maceo Parker, James Taylor), and long-time Harris collaborator Kenny Wollesen on drums, marimba and various percussion.

Former Phish guitarist Trey Anastasio has announced a line-up change in his current touring band "70 Volt Parade." Drummer Skeeto Valdez has made an "amicable split based on personal reasons" and been replaced by Raymond Weber. Here's the post from Trey's official website: