Melodic Power Metal from Italy. Produced by Olaf Thorsen. There's a brand new act in the power-metal scenario, and just when it seemed that nothing could shake this genre's stagnation, a new phenomenon arises from the blue, and you can bet this is bound to leave a mark. We're proudly presenting Soul Of Steel, a band introducing itself to the wider audience with a self-produced album, bearing the signature of metal star Olaf Thorsen (Labyrinth, Vision Divine) behind the knobs, featuring monster vocalist Roberto Tiranti as special guest.

Originally called Steps when it was formed in 1979 by vibraphonist Mike Mainieri, this group at various times has included tenor saxophonist Michael Brecker; keyboardists Don Grolnick, Eliane Elias, and Rachel Z; guitarist Mike Stern; bassists Eddie Gomez and Darryl Jones; and drummers Peter Erskine and Steve Smith, among others. Its music combines advanced jazz, RB, rock, and fusion and is frequently exciting. Steps Ahead was most active during 1979-1986, although it still existed on a part-time basis in the mid-'90s.

The Sky Is Crying is an electric blues album containing studio performances spanning most of the career of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble. Released about one year after Vaughan's death in 1990, the album features ten tracks originally recorded between 1984 and 1989.

This CD from Steps Ahead is probably most notable for introducing the fine keyboardist Rachel Z. Also in the group at the time were leader Mike Mainieri on MIDI vibraharp and synclavier, saxophonist Bendik, bassist Jeff Andrews and drummer Steve Smith. Put out by Mainieri's NYC label, this mostly high-powered performance consists of group originals, generally by Mainieri and Bendik.

From swinging bossa to infectious broken beats, the Nu Jazz series places the spotlight on today's masters of the sophisticated groove, bringing a positive message and real musicianship to the dancefloor.