Dramatico
Entertainment Limited was founded by singer/songwriter/producer/arranger Mike Batt in the early naughties, and achieved its first resounding success in 2003 with the phenomenal Georgian singer-songwriter Katie Melua, who was discovered by Batt at the BRIT School in Croydon. Katie has now sold more than 11 million records on the Dramatico label.
19.02.16 New Release: Brian Bennett SHADOWING JOHN BARRY
Brian Bennett, drummer of the Shadows; Brian Bennett: triple Ivor Novello Award winning film and TV score composer; Brian Bennett, member of the SODS (Society Of Distinguished Songwriters, and former “King Sod”) - writer of hits such as “Summer Holiday”, Brian Bennett whose barn burned down recently destroying his studio and irreplaceable collection of antique drum kits. He’s a busy man, Brian Bennett, and he’s had a long and interesting life so far.
Once the young resident drummer at the famous “Two 1’s” coffee bar in Old Compton Street, his stellar career has now brought him to the point when his new instrumental album – a tribute to his friend and idol, John Barry – is being released on Dramatico Records.
This is a powerful and impressive album, superbly produced and orchestrated – with the assistance of his son Warren Bennett. Years in the making, its limited “soft” digital release a few weeks ago has garnered very complimentary comments not only from the top guitar players who soloed on it, but fans and fellow professionals. Its full physical release and media impact date is now imminent.
Having chosen which of Barry’s pieces to include, Bennett was faced with the task of choosing who to ask to play the lead guitar on each track. Surrounded in his everyday work by the cream of the crop, he was spoiled for choice – and also being friends with some of the greatest guitarists in the world came in handy.
He cajoled his old pal, Hank Marvin out of semi-retirement to play on “The Appointment”, (effectively bringing “The Shadows” back together), and his superstar friends Peter Frampton and Mark Knopfler are joined by guitar maestros Ray Russell, John Parricelli and Mark Griffiths, creating a thrilling and masterful collaboration.
Opening with the spine-chilling lead guitar of Frampton on “Thunderball” followed by Parricelli’s superb interpretation of the beautiful “Out Of Africa” the album will be a joy to anybody who is a fan of John Barry, Brian Bennett, the guitarists themselves or indeed the very art of guitar playing, - and of course to those who are thrilled by the sound of an orchestra playing great arrangements.
Songwriter and producer Mike Batt, owner of the Dramatico label said, "I am honoured to have this superb album added to the Dramatico catalogue, and I thank Brian for coming to me with it. It’s a record I’ll often play, and it truly illustrates the wealth of talent that is active in the UK music industry; not always playing mainstream pop, but doing what they LIKE doing best – and it shows on this record"
Barry’s most active lyricist, Don Black said, "Brian has done a masterful Job in capturing John's magical musical legacy. John would have loved it."
Guitarist Ray Russell said, "Playing on this album is like coming home. My first professional gig at 19 was joining the John Barry 7."
04.07.14 Parov Stelar Band announce Brixton Academy show
Following a festival highlight set at Glastonbury, Parov Stelar Band will return to Britain for one night at Brixton Academy.
In 2013 Parov Stelar Band 'tore the lid off the place' (Artsdesk) and 'smashed it' (Guardian) when they played at Womad Festival. Their reputation for delivery a red hot mixture of electro-swing and chunky, pumping house music sold out shows at The Forum and Heaven that year and drew the biggest crowd at Glastonbury's Sonic stage in 2014. Now Parov Stelar - the master of sampling and his band return for one night at Brixton Academy.
'And We Run' by Within Temptation will be released in the UK and Ireland on 26th May, the single will include a dance remix and a demo of 'Living On Fire', you can get your copy HERE
The new video for the single is out today:
12.05.14 Congratulations to Caro
Caro Emerald’s The Shocking Miss Emerald spends 52 consecutive weeks in UK chart
Caro Emerald’s second album The Shocking Miss Emerald, which was released on May 6th 2013, has now spent an impressive 52 consecutive weeks in the official UK album chart. Released on Dramatico/Grandmono in the UK, the album entered the charts at number 1 on its release.
Meanwhile Caro’s debut album Deleted Scenes From The Cutting Room Floor has now clocked up 500,000 UK sales since its release in 2010.
A summer of festivals, including Hop Farm Festival, Llangollen Music Festival and her recently announced main stage performance at Glastonbury, will precede Caro’s UK tour in October that will see her play her largest run of dates - including London’s O2 Arena.
09.05.14 Glastonbury 2014
Caro Emerald and Parov Stelar will be playing at Glastonbury 2014!
Caro will be playing on the main (Pyramid) Stage, Parov will be playing on the Silver Hayes stage.
11.04.14 Is this the real winner of The Voice 2014?
Bob Blakeley records show-stopping 'Cry Me A River' with orchestra at famous Air Studios.
The 56 year old former taxi driver turned warehouse worker from Stockport made it to the blind auditions of The Voice but, despite an amazing performance, none of the judges turned round for him.
Chris Evans was one of the "outraged" celebrities on Twitter and he interviewed Bob on his Radio 2 show. Later that week Bob was interviewed on BBC Breakfast and was moved to tears when the record label boss and producer Mike Batt offered him a deal live on air :
Now signed to Mike's record label, Dramatico Entertainment, Bob's dreams are set to come true with the release of his debut album 'Performance'. Produced by Mike, and recorded with an orchestra at the legendary Air Studios in London, 'Performance' will include Bob's renditions of classic standards including his signature song 'Cry Me A River'.
24.03.14 Whole World is Watching
Within Temptation's latest single 'Whole World Is Watching' is now available to download in the UK and Ireland. It includes exclusive tracks and the video for the song. Get yours here
20.03.14 Caro Emerald x Record Store Day
After two hugely successful albums Caro Emerald is back with an EXCLUSIVE, LIMITED EDITION, COLOURED VINYL release especially for Record Store Day (19th April 2014).
The Shocking Miss Emerald Acoustic Sessions includes six new acoustic arrangements of tracks from her Number 1 album The Shocking Miss Emerald and features the songs: 'I Belong To You', 'Coming Back As A Man', 'Completely', 'Paris', 'The Wonderful In You' & 'Liquid Lunch'.
The nation gasped in shock when The Voice judges failed to turn round for Bob Blakeley's spine-tingling performance of Cry Me A River. The Granddad from Stockport then won the hearts of millions when he cheerfully shook hands with the judges before graciously leaving the stage.
But the story did not end there for the 56 year old warehouse worker. Appearing on BBC Breakfast the following week Bob was offered a deal by music producer and record company boss Mike Batt. Mike, who discovered Katie Melua and has written many chart-topping hits including Bright Eyes, had watched Bob's performance and told him "You must not let this chance go by and I would like to help you." Moved to tears Bob later took to Twitter saying "Wow what an incredible morning, I can't thank you all enough for your support! I hope to bring you some great music."
Now signed to Mike's record label, Dramatico Entertainment (who recently celebrated a number 1 album with Caro Emerald) Bob's dreams are set to come true with the release of his debut album 'Performance'. Produced by Mike, and recorded with an orchestra at the legendary Air Studios in London, 'Performance' will showcase Bob's extraordinary voice. Featuring his signature song 'Cry Me A River', the album will also include Bob's renditions of classic standards as well as inspired covers of contemporary songs.
'Performance' will be released on May 19th 2014 on Dramatico Entertainment, you can pre-order it from Amazon now: http://amzn.to/1mfh55L
Within Temptation takes a leap of faith with wing suit base jumpers. Watch the official video for 'Dangerous' featuring Howard Jones, now! #WTdangerous
Pre-order Hydra now, and get the first two singles 'Dangerous' & 'Paradise (What About Us?)' immediately: PRE-ORDER
13.12.13 'All Night' The Parov Stelar tour movie
"Ladies and Gentlemen.
A young film crew was touring with Parov Stelar in the years 2012/13.
This is a short road movie, a tour diary and a view behind the scenes.
Get the movie for free here: parovstelar.com
With this short film we want to say thank you!
Enjoy it and merry x-mas and a happy new year.
Parov & Team"
01.12.13 Katie Melua - Simplified Tour
Katie Melua will embark on a tour of Europe in March and April 2014 that will see her performing a stripped-down set accompanied by just bass and keyboards.
The tour will start in Russia on 23rd March and will take in Estonia, Lithuania, Denmark, Germany, Poland, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and Britain, before ending in Spain on 19th April 2014.
With this simplified production the focus will be on the beauty of Katie's voice and the strength of the songs.
"I know this will test me as a musician like never before but I love the purity and nakedness of performing with hardly any accompaniment. I have always included one or two stripped down songs in my previous gigs but never a whole tour like this. There is nothing to hide behind. Perhaps describing it as acoustic isn't completely accurate, as there will be keyboards and bass, so the tour is called 'Simplified'" explains Katie.
15.11.13 Caro Emerald "Thrilled And Honoured" by Royal Variety Performance Debut
"This is so huge! I feel very, very honoured to be invited to take part in the show. I appreciate how important it is and how many great entertainers have taken part over the last 100 years. I'm also thrilled to perform for the Royal Family" said Caro today.
The star studded spectacular, hosted by award winning comedian and actor John Bishop, takes place at the London Palladium on Monday 25th November and will be screened on ITV in December. Caro will join a host of stars including Mary J. Blige, Dame Edna Everage, Gary Barlow, Jimmy Carr, Chas & Dave, Torvill & Dean, Britainís Got Talent winners, Attraction, and the cast of the hit West End musical Charlie and The Chocolate Factory.
The event is staged in aid of the Entertainment Artistes Benevolent Fund, whose patron is Her Majesty The Queen. The money raised from the show helps those people from the world of entertainment in need of care and assistance.
08.11.13 Within Temptation - Hydra - Pre-order live
It's official: Within Temptationís sixth studio album is called 'Hydra' and will be released on the 4th of February, 2014 in the UK and Ireland.
The album will be available in several luxury formats. Read more about the special guests on the album and check out the official artwork by Romano Molenaar (X-men, Batman, The Unforgiving) and designing agency Das Buro, as well as different editions of the album, below! The Hydra Pre-order starts today.
04.11.13 The Shocking Miss Emerald (Deluxe Edition) OUT NOW
The Shocking Miss Emerald (Deluxe Edition) is out today, including 3 extra tracks and a second disc with a live concert recording (Live in Glasgow). Available from:
French pop/gypsy-jazz chanteuse Zaz (real name Isabelle Geffroy) brings her unique vocals and combination of jazz manouche and chanson Franaise to Britain. Established as an accomplished star in her native France Zaz is truly a musical renaissance woman assimilating a wide range of influences with unfailing flair, moving from jazz to blues to pop, and French song to African, Andalusian, Brazilian and Latin genres, all with a joyful, poetic enthusiasm and a passion for song.
Her debut UK album Zazí will be released on September 30th on Dramatico. The 12 track CD will comprise songs from both her eponymous French debut and second album On Ira including the hit single Je Veux which has amassed more than 30 million youtube views. Zaz will be performing on the Andrew Marr Show on BBC One on Sunday October 6th.
Born in Indre-et-Loire and raised in Bordeaux, Zaz studied violin, piano, guitar, and choral singing before a scholarship enabled her to attend the CIAM of Bordeaux (Centre for Musical Activities and Information). Having played and sung with various blues, jazz and Latin groups Zaz moved to Paris where she would regularly be seen performing on the streets of Montmartre.
Now her stage is more international whether singing to a crowd of 10,000 at the Hendaye Stadium in Southwest France, performing Edith Piafís greatest classics in the heart of Siberia, appearing at the Japanese festival Fuji Rock, headline tours throughout the world or a free concert in a Colombian salt mine. The multi-platinum status of her debut album cemented the French sensation as one of Europe's finest new artists whose life is built on song. Determined and puckish Zaz thrives on spontaneity, simplicity and good humour, and will sing anywhere, as long as she can express herself without constraints, in words that echo daily life with its sorrows and joys.
Following her sold out XOYO show and acclaimed performance at the Royal Albert Hall supporting Caro Emerald in March, Zaz returned to London in June for a sold out show at Scala.
Despite not speaking or even singing in English, [Zaz] captured the true creativity and fun of musicianship, gripping the audience to her very last note. JazzFM (Royal Albert Hall, 12/03/2013)
13.09.13 New Katie Melua video 'Love Is A Silent Thief'
From Katie: "This is a video that I have edited together with help from Michael Dunne from the record company using the footage from 'The Color of Pomegranates' by the Georgian/Armenian filmmaker Sergei Parajanov"
13.09.13 Within Temptation - Single and Live Dates
Within Temptation is joining forces with Tarja for their new single ìParadise (What About Us?)î. The EP, including three demo versions of brand new songs in addition to the single, can be pre-ordered now : http://smarturl.it/WT-Paradise-iTunes
They will be touring the UK next year.
April 11, 2014 | UK | MANCHESTER | APOLLO
April 12, 2014 | UK | LONDON | WEMBLEY ARENA
April 14, 2014 | UK | NEWCASTLE | ACADEMY
April 15, 2014 | UK | GLASGOW | ACADEMY
April 16, 2014 | UK | BIRMINGHAM | ACADEMY
Katie Melua jumped 13,000 feet for an airborne picnic in support of The Royal British Legionís new summer fundraising campaign Poppy Picnics.
Katie performed the daredevil stunt in support of the Legionís vital work for the Armed Forces and their families. The jump with the Legionís extreme human flight team, Jump4Heroes, took place at Netheravon, the home of the Army Parachute Association.
Katie said: ìIt was an incredible experience. Even though it wasnít my first ever jump, it is certainly my first ever picnic in the sky! I still find it really scary before jumping but love overcoming that fear.
ìIím proud to be supporting Poppy Picnics for our Armed Forces and their families. With this fantastic weather, what better way to make a contribution than by turning your summer event into a Poppy Picnic to be proud of.
Whilst Katie, who was joined by her husband, former World Superbike champion James Toseland, opted for the sky-high setting to have her picnic, the Legion is calling on people to hold a Poppy Picnic in any kind of setting to celebrate the invaluable contribution made by our Armed Forces community, and to raise money for the Legion.
Whether itís a games day, a themed event or just an opportunity to show off some serious baking skills, a Poppy Picnic is the perfect way to make any get-together more meaningful this summer.
A Poppy Picnic is not only an opportunity to celebrate and honour those who serve; it is also a chance to show solidarity with Armed Forces families, who hold the fort until their loved ones return home.
Charles Byrne, the Legionís Director of Fundraising said: ìArmed Forces families are a key focus for the Legion this year, whether it is employment support, crisis grants or benefits and money advice, we care for people in desperate need.
ìThe fundraising from our new Poppy Picnics campaign is vitally important, and will make a real impact on the lives of those we help.
ìWe spend £1.6 million each week providing social, emotional and financial care to the whole Armed Forces community ñ serving, ex-Service people, and their dependents too.î
To register an event, order a Poppy Picnic pack and get inspiring picnic ideas, please visit www.poppypicnic.org.uk.