Older Tiles News
December 23, 2018
Season's Greetings and best wishes for a happy, healthy, and prosperous 2019!
We've been a bit neglectful of our poor website, but suffice to say we've been hard at work on various things:
- Prepping to mix the massive 25th Anniversary Live Show
- Completing and mixing an early (and dramatically different) version of Static
- Completing and mixing the pre-Tiles Tightrope, a song we never previously "got around to"
We're keeping as many of the original tracks as possible and adding Paul's vocals, a guitar or keyboard part here and there, etc. Static was slated for our first album so it features
special guest Kevin Chown on bass; otherwise, it's all Mark, Chris, Jeff, and Paul. Our goal is to clean up some unfinished business and commemorate Paul-era Tiles with the 25th
Anniversary live album (and video bonus material) – release dates TBD.
In other news, Chris is working on the proverbial "solo-album" of tunes written over the past few years which never seemed quite right for Tiles. Special guests will abound...
See you in 2019!
Cheers..., Paul, Mark, Jeff, and Chris
- Prepping to mix the massive 25th Anniversary Live Show
- Completing and mixing an early (and dramatically different) version of Static
- Completing and mixing the pre-Tiles Tightrope, a song we never previously "got around to"
April 2, 2018
The April 28th TILES "25th Anniversary and A Farewell to Paul" show’s VIP package is now available!
Please note: you must purchase a ticket to the show separately in addition to purchasing the VIP package. We recommend you grab advance tickets at Ticketweb. You must have a ticket to the show to attend our first-ever (and last?) VIP
session.
Your VIP package includes:
6:00pm early entry to the venue
Meet & greet with Tiles
Moderated Q&A session
Photo with Tiles
Hang out for soundcheck
Stuff:
Your choice of any Tiles t-shirt from the merch booth
Pretending 2 Run digital download
Signed Pretending 2 Run postcard
Signed poster (choose from the archive, Off the Floor, or P2R)
And of course we’ll sign items you bring
January 22, 2018
Since our record company's diligent publicist is always one step ahead..., you may already know our excellent vocalist, friend, and all-around-nice-guy Mr. Paul Rarick has decided to
retire from singing and tendered his resignation from Tiles. We were just as surprised as you (likely) are upon hearing Paul's announcement. There were no discussions or clues that
foreshadowed his decision. In fact..., the mood of the band has been upbeat. Pretending 2 Run received an overwhelmingly positive response from fans
and critics – due in no small part to Paul's contributions. We enjoyed a successful tour in 2016 as guests of District 97 and once
again lately found ourselves as the Detroit-band-of-choice when the likes of King's X, Fates Warning, Yngwie Malmsteen, Jane
Getter, and others passed through town. We also enjoyed spring 2017 shows with the remarkable Cosmosquad and a
summer trek with Chicago's Fire Garden. However, the weather did not cooperate for our mid-August outdoor show in Gladwin, MI.
With a forecast of scattered clouds and only a slight possibility of intermittent rain it seemed logical to keep the show outside. Inevitably, with blue sky all around us, the few
clouds that did pass directly overhead delivered enough rain to interrupt our performance several times and cause problems with the guitar amps.
So after a busy year, and with Chris playing shows with Discipline in September and October, we decided to relax a bit and
reconvene in November to figure out what to do next. It was during this meeting Paul announced his surprise (and at that point) immediate retirement from singing. Simply put, he felt
he had been struggling with his vocals and it was time to bow out gracefully. We assured him there was little evidence to our ears this was the case and diplomatically tried to
convince him to reconsider. This is a delicate conversation to have – striking a balance between respecting what we could tell was a tough decision for Paul and letting him know we
hoped he would stay. We were careful not to pile on additional pressure, but each of us needed to offer our perspectives.
If indeed his mind was made up, then maybe a planned ramp down of the band over the next few years would be feasible? We aren't getting any younger (except Jeff) and – after all –
we've got more promotion to do for P2R. An album of that scope and investment necessitates an extended cycle of promotion! And if a ramp down isn't possible, how about at least a
final show since none of us could feel good about the weather-ruined Gladwin performance representing our swan song.
Much to Paul's surprise, each of us brought up the possibility it might be time to simply retire the band. Always humble, he had minimized the significance of his departure –
expecting us to quite naturally keep plugging away with someone else. But replacing any member after 25 years together, especially the voice of the band, is a daunting task. It's not
just the music, but also the friendship, musical chemistry, and group dynamics. After several weeks of letting reality sink in we finally decided to search for a new vocalist – and
Paul agreed playing a final show is the right thing to do for the fans, and provides closure.
Over the Holidays we applied no additional pressure but continued to hold out hope he would have a change of heart; although knowing Paul, we knew the chances were slim and none. Once
he makes up his mind..., that's it! We set a date for the Farewell Show and prepared our
official announcement for release mid-January. The irony is it was 25 years ago, almost to the exact month, we invited Paul into the studio to sing on an early (and so far
unreleased) version of "Modification" and "Opportunity" (which would later appear as a bonus track on the Fence the Clear Special Edition
reissue. He passed the audition and we immediately started working on the songs Mark and Chris already had in-progress for the first Tiles album.
It is with much relief we can offer one final appearance with Paul Saturday,
April 28th in Ferndale, MI before we begin our next chapter. It's a celebration of 25 years of camaraderie, friendship, and music. We hope to see you there!
July 29, 2017
We'll venture to the mid-Michigan area Saturday, August 12th for a 3pm outdoor show at the Gladwin City Park
Amphitheater. After a series of (very cool) opening spots and shared billings it will be nice to expand our set to a full 90-minutes and play some extra tunes...
If it rains the show will be held inside at the Gladwin High School Auditorium – so don’t let gloomy skies keep you away!
Visit our Tour Dates page for all the details and check out the flyer here.
June 25, 2017
It's been quite a while, but finally we return to the Buffalo, NY area Saturday, July 15th for Sonic Buffalo –
An Evening of Progressive Rock presented by Gazing Rabbit Productions at the Evening Star Concert Hall.
Hosted by Turning Virtue (as they promote their excellent new album A Temporary Human Experience), we will also be joined by our friends Fire
Garden from Chicago (who are also supporting their excellent latest release Far and Near). Get
all the info here...
June 18, 2017
We're heading to Ohio Friday, July 14th for a "friends & family" show at Howard's Club H in Bowling Green with our
buddies Monstrosadus, Fire Garden, and extra special guest the
remarkable Mark Mikel Band. It’s practically free so you can’t beat the price! Get all the info here....
June 13, 2017
Our most-generous German expatriate friend Al Grabenstein has kindly translated a few more reviews into English for us. Follow these links for the insightful commentary from:
· Thoralf Koss @ MusikReviews.de
· Frank @ Polyprisma.de
· Steve Berdelak @ Crossfire Metal Webzine
June 10, 2017
It's time to get our upcoming shows on everyone's radar – and we've got some fun stuff on the horizon!
Friday, June 23rd join us at the Token Lounge in Westland, MI for a stellar evening progressive metal featuring the legendary
Fates Warning. Joining them on tour are our fellow Laser's Edge label
mates Infinite Spectrum plus our buds Imminent Sonic
Destruction. Doors open at 6pm so arrive early to stake your claim.
On Friday, July 7th, join us at the Magic Bag in Ferndale, MI for the welcome return of the renowned King's X. We've had the good fortune to open for KX on several occasions and they always deliver great deep-cut set lists and expend every last
bit of energy. Do not miss this show at one of the coolest theaters in metro-Detroit! Doors open at 8pm so arrive early to stake your claim. (T I L E S) is the only opening act).
Visit our Tour Dates for more details...
May 3, 2017
We are pleased to announce the release of our first major conceptual video for the song The Disappearing Floor. Several months in the making, the team at Chromatin Productions (along with band liaison Jeff Whittle) worked long hours to render the storyline and coordinate the
logistics of multiple on-location shoots. One of our favorite tracks on Pretending 2 Run, The Disappearing Floor finds our central
character delivering a soliloquy on his post-traumatic struggle to cope with and make something of his new normal. The music is jagged and off-kilter, the vocals angry and distorted,
and Mike Stern’s remarkable guitar solo a wordless narrative of catharsis – all suitably captured in the dark and unsettling
imagery.
The video was primarily shot in a historic industrial park in downtown Detroit and features a cameo appearance by legendary six-time-Grammy-nominated fusion guitarist Mike Stern as he recorded his incendiary solo at the renowned United Sound
Studio where so many musical icons, including his former boss Miles Davis, recorded. Chris Herin states on collaborating with
Stern, "What a remarkable experience! Mike was so easygoing and dedicated to delivering his best. It was very late and he had just flown in from Montana, but he was totally up for the
session. We already had a great solo completed, but Mike said, "Do you mind if I do one more pass, just for fun?" And he nailed what you hear (and see). It's hard to believe he
surpassed what we already had! It was such a thrill to experience that level of musicianship and artistry up close."
April 29, 2017
We are pleased to open for the legendary pioneer of neo-classical shred – guitarist Yngwie Malmsteen on Friday, May 19th at
St. Andrews Hall in Detroit. Click here for more information.
March 11, 2017
We are pleased to announce a few live shows with excellent line-ups! Click on the show dates for more information on the Tour Dates page:
* Friday, April 7th @ Realm in Toledo, OH with Cosmosquad () and Mark Mikel – all ages!
* Saturday, April 8th @ The Token Lounge in Westland, MI (Detroit) with Cosmosquad; Reign and Thousand Foot RailGun – 18 and over.
Friday, April 28th @ Reggies Music Joint in Chicago, IL with Sonus Umbra and Fire Garden – 21 and over.
* Note: Cosmosquad features long time Tiles confidant Kevin Chown and friend Jeff Kollman, guitarist from 90’s Toledo metal icons 'Edwin Dare'. Also joining the Toledo show is Mark Mikel, who figured prominently in the making of Pretending 2 Run.
Additional shows to be announced...
January 21, 2017
Here's the official English translation of the Pretending 2 Run review from Germany's Betreutes Proggen website....
January 16, 2017
We're back in the swing of rehearsing and have a number of shows in the works throughout the Midwest - which will be announced shortly. Be seeing you!
January 15, 2017
Also..., a new (and comprehensive) interview with Chris appeared several weeks ago courtesy of progressive rock mega-site Prog-Sphere. And don't miss their accompanying thoughtful review of Pretending 2 Run.
January 14, 2017
We are in the process of having some of the German reviews expertly translated into English by our friend and Deutschland native Al Grabenstein. Check out the first four translations here.
January 13, 2017
Hello everyone and a belated welcome to 2017! We hope your Holidays were enjoyable and that 2017 is off to a great start...
As we've published in a few of our recent Facebook posts, Pretending 2 Run has enjoyed
quite a few "Best of 2016" accolades. Here’s a quick sampling:
- Bas Aldenzee at the "Time to Rock" radio show in the Netherlands ranked P2R as his favorite album of 2016!
- George K. at Rock Hard Greece included P2R in his Top 20 albums of 2016.
- Jay Watson at "Progarchy: Pointing Toward Proghalla" places P2R at #6 in his list of Top 10
albums of 2016.
- Robert Robb at Echoing Magazine ranks P2R at #2 in his "Top 6 non-metal albums of 2016".
- George K. at Rock Hard Greece included P2R in his Top 20 albums of 2016.
- Jay Watson at "Progarchy: Pointing Toward Proghalla" places P2R at #6 in his list of Top 10 albums of 2016.
- Robert Robb at Echoing Magazine ranks P2R at #2 in his "Top 6 non-metal albums of 2016".
November 14, 2016
The final installment of our Pretending 2 Run documentary looks at the album's somewhat complicated recording process. Along with producer Terry
Brown, we traveled back and forth between Detroit, Toronto and Toledo, swapped electronic files across the Atlantic Ocean and repeatedly shipped hard drives across the border. At
times it was quite the logistical challenge (not to mention the crazy amounts of file management)! The collective miles we logged traipsing around our area of the rust belt was
staggering...
Interestingly enough, the convoluted way P2R came to life is a first in the history of Tiles. At most, we'd work between a couple studios and for Fly Paper
we recorded the entire album in Toronto at Terry Brown's studio. But of course, a lot changed between 2007 (when we finished Fly Paper) and 2013 (when we started P2R); most
significant was working around everyone's schedules, plus there were a few 'cost-containment' considerations. However, the changing scenery, environments and personalities of the
various studios helped fuel our creativity. The sonic playground that is Mark Mikel's studio played a huge role in inspiring and
bringing new sounds and textures to our song arrangements; and we are grateful for the professionalism and excellent support we enjoyed at all the studios!
So, we wrap our 'Five-Part Video Interview Series on the Making of Pretending 2 Run' with "Part V" (Recording Process) - complete with a few behind the scenes stories, in-the-studio
footage, surprise cameos and candid photos! Read the official Laser's Edge/Earsplit announcement here.
Also, if you happen to have 30-minutes to spare check out the entire five part series at this handy YouTube playlist.
Once again, we extend a very special thanks to the Chromatin team for their excellent production and creative input!
October 25, 2016
The next installment in our Pretending 2 Run interview series takes a look at the remarkable collection of guest artists who helped us bring the album
to life. In addition to some of the different backstories, we were lucky to have videoed some of the actual performances heard on the CD! Notable are Mike Stern at the legendary United Sound Systems Recording Studios in Detroit – Mike Portnoy recording "Stonewall" – and his son Max recording "Fait
Accompli". Of special interest is footage of Mike and Max recording their very first commercially-released drum duet!
The entire guest list and supporting cast actually spans the globe and cuts across musical genres thanks to Ian Anderson of Jethro
Tull, Colin Edwin of Porcupine Tree, Adam Holzman (Steven Wilson Band, Miles
Davis), Joe Deninzon, Kevin Chown and Kim Mitchell. While closer to home we enlisted the talents of some of our Detroit and Toledo-area friends: Matthew Parmenter of Discipline., Mark Mikel, Keith
Kaminski, Tim Michling, Sonya Mastick, Renaissance Voices and more...
Special thanks once again to the Chromatin team for the excellent productions and for efforts way beyond the call of
duty!
October 19, 2016
We are pleased to headline the long-overdue return of the Motor City ProgShow Saturday, November 19th at the Loving Touch
in Ferndale, MI.
Joining the festivities are Imminent Sonic Destruction & Reign.
We will feature selections from Pretending 2 Run and welcome several of the album's special guests to the stage to lend a hand (sorry, but please do not
expect Ian Anderson or Mike Portnoy to make cameos).
Visit our Tour Dates page for all the details!
October 13, 2016
Continuing our Pretending 2 Run interview series as announced in the previous September 24th news entry, we offer up the next two installments:
T I L E S "Pretending 2 Run" Interview Part II: Concepts
We talk about how P2R developed into a song cycle about a man blindsided and disillusioned by betrayal - and his journey through adversity as he escapes from the dark corners of
seclusion on a faltering search for redemption.
T I L E S "Pretending 2 Run" Interview Part III: Artwork
We discuss how the cover developed and its different variations - and what it's like collaborating with Hugh Syme as he worked to complement the album's dramatic and multi-layered
story line with striking and surreal imagery. Featuring a lush 28-page full-color booklet, the design and packaging for "Pretending 2 Run" is an elaborate and stunning work
of art.
September 24, 2016
Prior to the release of Pretending 2 Run we sat down individually to talk about the album. The producers asked questions and we would ramble about the
writing and recording, concept, special guests and other fun stuff. The whole process was unrehearsed, unscripted and the topics were slightly different for each of us. The Chromatin production team even slipped in a few surprise questions to keep us on our toes!
Overall, our main objective was to have some bits of interview material for the album trailers – but there was so much footage we were able to group the themes into five video
segments and provide a bit of 'behind-the-scenes' insights.
We are pleased to kick things off with the aptly titled first segment, Part I – Beginnings
**Note: members of the Tiles Files Mailing List get to enjoy advance screenings so if you're not already a member, sign up today – it's easy!
September 10, 2016
We met up with Mike Portnoy after the recent Winery Dogs show in Detroit
and he kindly agreed to say a few words about Pretending 2 Run – in print and in person! Mike and his son Max both make guest appearances (individually and
together) on Stonewall and Fait
Accompli.
Portnoy enthuses about Pretending 2 Run in print:
"Tiles have delivered another very diverse album and continue to push the boundaries of Progressive Rock. The list of special guests is amazing and I am proud to present my very first
recorded drum duet with my son Max."
...and...
Live and in person:
Thanks MP!
August 26, 2016
We're pleased to once again open for the legendary King's X Friday, September 30th at the Token Lounge. Click here for all the details.
Although we didn't formally announce our pending show Thursday, September 29th at Wilbert's in Cleveland as part of the Sonic Voyage
Fest word did leak out just a little bit – so..., we should clarify that due to health circumstances within the band we are unable to make the journey and regretfully will not be
appearing. Progressive rock fans are, of course, still encouraged to attend and witness the excellent Stratospheerius, Circuline and Cell15. Visit the SVF website for info on all four shows...
July 20, 2016
Now that Pretending 2 Run has been available for several months, let's take a quick look at what people are saying... (Brave, aren't we?)
Thankfully we can breathe a collective sigh of relief as an overwhelming majority of fans and critics have enthusiastically embraced "P2R". Sure..., we wrote and recorded music we're
proud of and believe in (like every other artist); but we still want our songs to connect and resonate with listeners – which is something that can never be assumed (!).
But before we list a few of our favorite review excerpts, check out this quick video plug for "Pretending 2 Run" by Mike
Portnoy: Portnoy Talks TILES "Pretending 2 Run"
Jeff & Chris visited with Mike after the recent Winery Dogs show in Detroit and 'one-take-wonder Portnoy' was kind enough to
say a few words in support of "P2R".
So..., picking up where Mike left off, here a few review quotes that are easy for us to endorse (click here for the complete
collection):
• Music Connection: (9/10) "Tiles up the ante by giving the listener a double disc with an engaging storyline, meticulously arranged string and choral pieces, sweet vocal
harmonies and tuneful jam-based hard rock, fusion and world beat sounds."
• PROG Magazine: "...the Detroiters really turn up the heat. (Pretending 2 Run) ... is more imaginative, expansive, colorful, diverse and satisfying than ever."
• All Music Guide: (4/5) "'Pretending 2 Run' is massive, obsessive even. But it is also free of self-indulgence. Disciplined performances and lyric economy balance the breadth
of Tiles' ambition with depth and maturity that only longevity like theirs brings. Who says the concept album is dead? Brilliant."
• Musipedia of Metal: (10/10) "'Pretending 2 Run' is a progressive masterpiece, it may be overwhelming for some, but after a few listens the 96-minute album drip feeds you its
secret that every time you listen you hear something new and interesting."
• Profil Prog: (9½/10) "A jewel of originality. The amazing musical variety of the concept, coupled with intelligent writing, constantly provide new discoveries with each
listen. You will regularly come back to "Pretending 2 Run" with pleasure. Highly recommended!
• Classic Rock (Germany): "... whoever successfully puts the hour and a half of 'Pretending 2 Run' behind them, will have enjoyed every single second..."
• Musicreviews.de: (14/15) "'Pretending 2 Run' is a great double album that should properly set the progressive rock scene buzzing."
• Sea of Tranquility: (4½/5) "It's a wild ride from start to finish. 'Pretending 2 Run' contains many layers, a wealth of textures, and lots of color; featuring stellar
vocals & musicianship from the band and their guests. So make sure you don't miss out on this gem."
Special Fan Mentions:
• One of Chris' favorite reviews comes from "PlanetRondentia2" at ProgArchives due to the in-depth analysis
of the "Pretending 2 Run" story - intriguing.
• And one of our favorite fan comments about "Pretending 2 Run" comes from a veteran Rush fan who hopped into his Time Machine and co-opted this phrase from way back in a 1975 ad for
Caress of Steel : "The more you hear it, the more you hear in it!"
• PROG Magazine: "...the Detroiters really turn up the heat. (Pretending 2 Run) ... is more imaginative, expansive, colorful, diverse and satisfying than ever."
• All Music Guide: (4/5) "'Pretending 2 Run' is massive, obsessive even. But it is also free of self-indulgence. Disciplined performances and lyric economy balance the breadth of Tiles' ambition with depth and maturity that only longevity like theirs brings. Who says the concept album is dead? Brilliant."
• Musipedia of Metal: (10/10) "'Pretending 2 Run' is a progressive masterpiece, it may be overwhelming for some, but after a few listens the 96-minute album drip feeds you its secret that every time you listen you hear something new and interesting."
• Profil Prog: (9½/10) "A jewel of originality. The amazing musical variety of the concept, coupled with intelligent writing, constantly provide new discoveries with each listen. You will regularly come back to "Pretending 2 Run" with pleasure. Highly recommended!
• Classic Rock (Germany): "... whoever successfully puts the hour and a half of 'Pretending 2 Run' behind them, will have enjoyed every single second..."
• Musicreviews.de: (14/15) "'Pretending 2 Run' is a great double album that should properly set the progressive rock scene buzzing."
• Sea of Tranquility: (4½/5) "It's a wild ride from start to finish. 'Pretending 2 Run' contains many layers, a wealth of textures, and lots of color; featuring stellar vocals & musicianship from the band and their guests. So make sure you don't miss out on this gem."
• And one of our favorite fan comments about "Pretending 2 Run" comes from a veteran Rush fan who hopped into his Time Machine and co-opted this phrase from way back in a 1975 ad for Caress of Steel : "The more you hear it, the more you hear in it!"
April 15, 2016
Pretending 2 Run is now available!
Read the official press release here
...and get your copy today:
CD: (indulge in the tactile experience of Hugh Syme's elaborate 2-disc digipak w/ 28-page booklet)
• Signed copies direct from Tiles
• Direct from our label Laser CD
• Amazon
• Burning Shed (UK)
• Just For Kicks (Germany)
• Progrock.co.uk (UK)
Digital: (includes download of Hugh Syme's lush 28-page booklet)
• Laser's Edge Standard Digital Download (mp3, FLAC and more)
• Laser's Edge 24-Bit Digital Download(mp3, FLAC and more)
• iTunes
April 12, 2016
We are pleased announce "the world's loudest rock magazine" Revolver is
exclusively streaming our new double CD "Pretending 2 Run" in its entirety (!) a few days ahead of the April 15th release date. All 96-minutes are premiering here!
Check out the full Laser's Edge / Earsplit announcement here
for behind-the-scenes information.
Plus..., not only do we lift the veil off Pretending 2 Run – but if you're reading this then welcome to the debut of the brand new TILES website! Be
sure and look around and don't forget to check out the STORE for our "Pretending 2 Run" CD special, t-shirts, special "Off the Floor" 20th Anniversary shirts and
our entire back catalog...
Many thanks to Mike at ProgScape for the great design!
April 5, 2016
We are pleased to release the second full-length song from our upcoming double album Pretending 2 Run – this time in the form of a lyric video. Along with some interesting perspectives on being "weightless," the song features guest appearances from several of our hometown musician friends: Sonya Mastick on percussion, Keith Kaminski on soprano saxophone and Kevin Sharpe on the Hammond B-3 organ. Matthew Parmenter of Discipline. also trades lead vocals with Paul. One of the last songs recorded for the album, it ended up being one of our favorites:
Producer Terry Brown: "During the recording process 'Pretending 2 Run' gradually morphed into an epic! Adding "Weightless"' towards the end of the production was a coup and it quickly became my favourite track on an album of favourites!"Check out the video here.
Chris also "weighs" in: "'Weightless' was lingering on the backburner since the beginning of the project. But it wasn't until we decided to make Pretending 2 Run a double album that we circled back around to it. It's just one of those situations where a song inexplicably drops off the radar then turns out to be a hidden gem. 'Weightless' may actually be the most upbeat song on the entire album and features the first soprano saxophone solo (courtesy of Keith Kaminski (Bob Seger)) ever to appear on a Tiles album!"
March 19, 2016
The second promotional video trailer for "Pretending 2 Run" is now available! Trailer #2 goes behind-the-scenes with band
interviews and studio footage to explain how a simple idea (and one song) grew into the incredibly complex double-album undertaking it became. The five-minute trailer documents the
first recorded father-and-son collaboration with Mike Portnoy (Winery Dogs, Dream Theater) and his son Max Portnoy (Next To None) – plus a bit of mysterious footage as renowned guitarist Mike Stern
(Miles Davis) records one of his solos.
The trailer offers sneak peeks at musical excerpts from "Voir Dire," "Stonewall," "Drops of Rain," "Taken by Surprise" and "The Disappearing Floor".
The promotional team at The Laser's Edge announced the new trailer with this press release.
"Pretending 2 Run" will be released April 15th...
**Pre-order your copy here – including a special bundle offer featuring a limited edition Hugh Syme designed t-shirt!
**Check out the video for the first single Shelter in Place
**Also available is the first trailer
August 4, 2016
Due to a sudden and moderately serious health issue within the band we must cancel our August 13th appearance. This is, of course, something no band likes to do, but under the
circumstances (Doctor’s orders!) we have no choice. Please accept our apologies...The good news is after a few weeks of recovery we’ll be back in action and will soon post details
regarding upcoming shows in Cleveland and Detroit.
Replacing us for the August 13th show is Fortress. We’ve left the show’s information below to encourage you to still make the trek for a great evening prog-metal. Maybe a couple of
us will still see you there!
July 23, 2016
We are pleased to join MindMaze, Laser’s Edge label mates Iris
Divine and Mare Crisium Saturday, August 13th at the Token
Lounge. Click here for more information.
February 24, 2016
We are pleased to release the first single from our upcoming double album "Pretending 2 Run" through an exclusive premiere at PROG Magazine. Featuring Canadian icon Kim Mitchell on lead guitar, "Shelter in Place" is the first
full song released from "Pretending 2 Run"; a vivid and richly crafted song cycle that spins the tale of a man blindsided and disillusioned by betrayal.
The "Shelter in Place" video was produced by Mathew Kennedy, and filmed and directed by Paul Dzendzel. With the video suitably framed in a cramped and dark space, "Shelter in Place" is
the second track of the album and establishes the post-traumatic condition of the story's central character as he begins his journey from isolation to redemption. The static guitar riff
changes perspectives as flurries of drums and shifting bass rhythms propel the song from tense claustrophobic verses to spacious melodic choruses.
Pre-orders are now available at The Laser's Edge! The label commissioned a Limited Edition t-shirt design from Hugh Syme and are offering a special pre-order bundle – don't miss out...
February 3, 2016
The first of several promotional video trailers for "Pretending to Run" is now available. Trailer #1 features musical
excerpts from two of the new songs "Taken by Surprise" and "The Disappearing Floor", plus a section of Adam Holzman's Moog
soundscapes. Adam is also who you hear playing B-3 organ in "Taken by Surprise".
Each of the trailers will provide behind-the-scenes glimpses in the recording studio (including some of our special guests), photos, sound samples and other 'interesting'
details.
The promotional team at The Laser's Edge announced the first trailer with this press release.
February 2, 2016
T I L E S and The Laser’s Edge Group are pleased to confirm a worldwide release date of April 15, 2016 for “Pretending 2
Run”. The band’s sixth studio recording is an elaborate 2-CD song cycle about betrayal and redemption – and features a remarkable collection of guest musicians...
Launching the “Pretending 2 Run” promotional campaign and premiering Hugh Syme’s striking artwork is PROG Magazine with this announcement.
*Truth in advertising: we enlisted the services of a 25-piece “choir” – not a 25-piece “orchestra.” Apologies for getting some wires crossed in communications.
November 15, 2015
We are pleased to open for the Jane Getter Premonition Wednesday, December 9th at the Token Lounge in Westland, MI. Jane is known as the current leader of the Saturday Night Live band – and has assembled an all-star band for
her new album and tour featuring Stu Hamm on bass, Alex Skolnick on guitar, Adam Holzman on keyboards and John Mader on drums. Visit her website for sound samples and lots more information!
Adam Holzman is also the keyboardist in Steven Wilson’s band and figures prominently on our forthcoming new album Pretending to Run.
We know Wednesdays aren’t the best concert nights…, that’s why it’s an early show with doors at 7pm and the JGP taking the stage around 9pm.
Visit our Live Shows page for all the details!
November 5, 2015
Laser's Edge Signs Detroit Progressive Hard Rock Outfit For March 2016 Release of “Pretending to Run” Album
Leading American progressive label collective, Laser’s Edge Group, has completed a deal with long-running Detroit progressive hard rock quartet, TILES, for the upcoming release of the
band’s mighty sixth studio full-length, the 2xCD Pretending to Run.
Since 1995, TILES has issued five prior albums, including their debut on Dream Circle Records, a record on Standing Pavement Recordings, and four albums on Inside Out. The band’s
first studio album since 2008’s Fly Paper, and their first for Laser’s Edge, Pretending to Run clocks in with over ninety-six minutes of incredibly expansive, brand new material,
spanning two discs. Pretending to Run is an ambitious and richly crafted concept album that spins the tale of a man blindsided and disillusioned by betrayal. Brooding and expressive,
TILES explores the dark subject matter by weaving stylistically diverse musical elements throughout their progressive hard rock platform. Lyrical string arrangements, haunting choir
performances and reflective soundscapes coexist with hard rock heaviness to create a tapestry of emotional drama as the songs chart a path from isolation to redemption.
Pretending to Run was produced by Terry Brown (Rush, Fates Warning) and features a remarkable collection of guest musicians including Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Mike Portnoy (Flying
Colors, Winery Dogs, ex-Dream Theater), Adam Holzman (Steven Wilson Band), Mike Stern (Miles Davis), Kim Mitchell (Max Webster), Colin Edwin (Porcupine Tree), Kevin Chown (Tarja
Turunen, Chad Smith), Matthew Parmenter (Discipline), Mark Mikel (Pillbugs), Joe Deninzon, Max Portnoy (Next To None) and many others.
Laser’s Edge released the following statement on bringing the band onto the label’s roster: “TILES has long been one of the standard-bearers of American progressive rock. I first saw
the band perform back in 1999 and they’ve been on my radar ever since. It’s a pleasure to add them to our roster and I’m looking forward to our collaboration. When I first heard
Pretending to Run it was clearly and unmistakably Tiles but infused with a more expansive sound. The contributions from the guest artists take TILES into new directions that will
please their fans old and new.”
Collectively issues TILES in a statement about the signing, “We are extremely pleased to partner with the Laser’s Edge to release our long-awaited new double album, Pretending to Run.
For over twenty years, progressive rock and metal aficionados have come to rely on the label’s discerning judgment for releasing the finest in new progressive music – so joining their
roster is indeed a gratifying compliment! We are confident they will put the full force of their expertise into bringing Pretending to Run to the attention of progressive hard rock
fans everywhere.”
Pretending to Run will feature artwork by Hugh Syme and is scheduled for a March 4th, 2016 release through Laser’s Edge. Stand by for the album’s track listing, cover artwork,
production/studio videos, audio samples, several official music videos, TILES tour dates and much more to be announced throughout the coming months.
Earsplit Public Relations
October 12, 2015
Headed by Joe Deninzon and his band Stratospheerius, Sonic Voyage Fest’s purpose is to create a night of music that dazzles with virtuosity, ignites the senses and pushes boundaries. The
festival’s Detroit stop gathers two of Detroit’s most notable progressive rock mainstays TILES and DISCIPLINE, plus the driving hard rock of Faded Main for an eclectic evening of music. Click here for more
information.
September 12, 2015
Detroit-based prog rockers TILES have announced drummer Max Portnoy of NEXT TO NONE makes a guest appearance on their upcoming
double album ’Pretending to Run’.
Guitarist Chris Herin reports:
"Max is the son of Mike Portnoy – and clearly the drumming acorn didn’t fall far from the tree! When I first approached Mike to
guest on our album I also asked him if Max might be interested in playing too. After sending Mike several tunes to consider, he came back with the epic "Stonewall" as his choice and
suggested that "Fait Accompli" would be perfect for Max. I was actually a little surprised since "Fait Accompli" has a straight ahead Badfinger/Supertramp groove. But Mike knew what
he was doing and said it was a chance to take Max out of his complex prog-metal comfort zone and nurture his versatility. Plus they both really liked the song.
Max definitely delivered the goods. He was very well-prepared and totally dialed into the pocket, playing tasty fills in all the right places and moving seamlessly through the meter
changes. But what makes Max’ appearance extra special is he teams up with Mike during the song’s instrumental bridge sections. It was heart-warming watching the father/son bond at
work – especially as they worked out their duet parts. Many thanks to Max and Mike for their great playing – and for making their Portnoy family debut on ‘Pretending to
Run’."
Max Portnoy rounds out an impressive list of notable guest musicians on ‘Pretending to Run’ which includes Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), Mike Portnoy (Winery Dogs, Flying Colors,
Ex-Dream Theater), Mike Stern (Miles Davis), Kim Mitchell (Max Webster), Adam Holzman (Steven Wilson Band, Miles Davis), Kevin Chown (Chad Smith, Sebastian Bach) and Colin Edwin
(Porcupine Tree).
"Pretending to Run" is produced & mixed by Terry Brown (Rush, Fates Warning) and is slated for an early-2016 release. Stay up-to-date with all the latest developments by visiting the
‘Tiles Files Newsletter’.
May 30, 2015
We’re pleased to announce TILES will be joining a great line up of bands for the 2015 edition of HarleyFest
Saturday, June 13th at Freedom Hill in Sterling Heights, MI. TILES show time is 4pm. HarleyFest is one of the
premier summer festivals in the Detroit area and is a family-friendly event with all ages welcome. Admission is free...
April 30, 2015
It was fun times last Saturday as we stepped away from the studio to join fellow Detroiters Imminent Sonic
Destruction (ISD) to open for London’s HAKEN at the Token in Westland, MI. We’ve been fans of HAKEN since their masterpiece
"The Mountain" was released two years ago so it was great to share the stage with them!
Joining HAKEN as tour-openers was Next To None which features Max Portnoy, Mike Portnoy’s son, (not surprisingly) on drums. All
still in High School (!), N2N delivered some of the heaviest and most complex music of the night – a preview of their debut album scheduled for release June 30th on InsideOut.
Although all the openers played short sets, we carved out time to debut one new song "Shelter in Place" – the second track off ‘Pretending to Run’. Also..., it was an open secret
that Mike Portnoy was traveling with Max so we saved time for the possibility he might accept our offer to join us for "The Spirit of Radio". We weren’t sure if the timing would work
out, but sure enough..., as we finished "Ballad of the Sacred Cows" Paul came back on stage to say Mike was ready to go! Mark gracefully relinquished the drum throne and Mike
appeared to the surprise and delight of the audience. After a few hugs and handshakes, Paul handed Mike the microphone and he said a few words to the audience:
"How are you guys doing? For those of you that don’t know..., Tiles was Dream Theater’s opening band 16-years ago on the ‘Scenes from a Memory’ tour. It’s so good to see these guys
and so good to see you guys – thank you!"
As the cheers died down, Chris launched into the oh-so-familiar guitar pattern of that Rush classic then everyone dove in full steam ahead. Aside from a couple unfortunate slips:
Paul accidently triggering a "Hide in My Shadow" sample (too bad it wasn’t in a sympathetic key!) and Chris joking with Mike and missing a chord or two – it was great fun, warts and
all. Many thanks to Mike for stepping out on a limb (we didn’t rehearse) and making the evening uniquely memorable for us and the audience!
Be sure and search YouTube – the videos are out there...
Overall, it was a great evening of progressive rock/metal with over 200 Detroit-area fans witnessing the first show of HAKEN’s first US tour – and coincidently the first show of Next
to None’s first-ever tour! Many thanks to ISD for making it happen...
Here are a few photos of the
on-stage festivities courtesy of Rick Rosinski and Kristina Freed – plus some backstage fun with Mike, Mark Mikel (of the Pillbugs)
and Charlie Griffiths (Haken):
December 22, 2014
Season’s Greetings everyone..., best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year!
The New Year may actually bring forth the sixth Tiles studio album “Pretending to Run” – and to keep people up to date on our progress we’ve brought back the “Tiles Files”
newsletter. Once an old fashioned paper publication that came out a few times a year between 1994 and 1997, this new version will, of course, be electronic (with pictures
too!).
The first few entries will spend some time catching up, after all…, we’ve been recording on and off since March 2013. Plus all of a sudden our new album has a different title! Why?
Clearly a case of the “best laid plans of mice and men”...
Updates will be regular. We’ll divulge all kinds of moderately interesting bits of behind-the-scenes activities: the good, bad and all points in between.
You’re welcome to make your first visit now and check out the first two entries.
Stay safe and enjoy the Holidays!
Paul, Mark, Jeff and Chris
September 25, 2014
Our next show in support of “Off the Floor 02” is coming up fast: Saturday, October 4th at the Trenton Scarecrow Festival
in Downriver Detroit.
Tiles plays 2-sets from 8pm – 10pm. The festival is free and has lots of fun activities – so bring the kids too!
August 6, 2014
We are excited to announce our appearance at Progtoberfest October 26, 2014 at Reggies in Chicago. The festival runs Saturday, October 25th and through Sunday, October 26th with two stages of bands each
day.
It’s worth the drive from anywhere in the Midwest to hear such a great collection of bands (even modestly priced airfare is money well-spent)!
June 12, 2014
We're pleased to announce our return to the live stage: 6pm Friday, June 27th at the Stars and Stripes Festival at Freedom
Hill in Sterling Heights, MI. It's great to finally get some fresh air and support our new CD Off the Floor 02 – especially at one of the premier
summer festivals in the Detroit area!
Hear (and see) us on the "Made in Detroit" stage opening for LA GUNS...
Directions & Contact Info:
14900 Metropolitan Parkway
Sterling Heights, MI 48312
Phone: (586) 493-4344
General eMail - info@funfestinc.com
June 3, 2014
"Off the Floor 02" is officially released today! Click here for all the details and here for purchasing options. In
the local Detroit area visit Dearborn Music (more local stores coming soon...).
Chris checks in: "Well..., I have to say it's nice to get the "Off the Floor" project fully completed and released. It took a little longer than expected, but it was a lot of fun and
we are excited to finally have a collection of live performances properly mixed and in our catalog. Between "Off the Floor 01" and "Off the Floor 02" there’s almost 3-hours of live
music – so it was no casual undertaking! I think these CDs offer our fans something more than a carbon copy of the studio versions since we like to stretch out the original
arrangements in some places. It’s almost like we revert to how the songs began when we first took them into the studio...
Now it's time to get out and do some shows this summer and fall - and finish our long-overdue 6th studio album!"
May 19, 2014
We are pleased to announce pre-orders are available for the June 3, 2014 release of "Off the Floor 02 (Limited Edition)" on the Tiles
Merchandise page.
"The second installment of Tiles' 20th Anniversary celebration, "Off the Floor 02" continues with more live-in-the-studio performances of staples from
the band's live sets. Taken from the same sessions as "Off the Floor (01)," the track list draws from each of the band's five studio albums. For this
2-disc Limited Edition version, Tiles dug into their archives and dusted off a few tunes from their appearance at the 2005 Rites of Spring Festival. These songs are not reprised on
either "Off the Floor" disc - and features the only recorded full performance of the epic "Window Dressing." Also included are two bonus videos from the "Off the Floor"
sessions."
For our friends in the UK visit Burning Shed for some great pre-order options - and German
fans can check out Just for Kicks Music for special promotions.
**SPECIAL OPPORTUNITY** for our hometown fans!! Visit Dearborn Music and get "Off the
Floor 02" NOW..., while their pre-release supply lasts (in-store only). They've also got some signed (and unsigned) posters free with purchase (while supplies last). Plus the entire
Tiles back catalog is 20% off.
Visit the "Off the Floor" mini-site for download options, the official press release, the "Off the Floor 02" story, a brand new video for "Remember to
Forget" and other purchasing options.
April 21, 2014
Chris and Jeff (and Chris’ daughter Gabrielle) caught up with Dream Theater during the band’s recent stop in Detroit. It’s
always nice of the guys to let us drop by and catch up
a little bit. John Petrucci even arranged for Gabrielle to get a "family photo" and meet her keyboard hero (Jordan, of course!). The band put together a great set (Space Dye Vest!)
including a big chunk of "Scenes from a Memory" which, well..., brought back memories of our tour together. Especially cool was the elaborate staging and visuals that brought Hugh
Syme’s CD artwork to life – simply a great presentation, don’t miss this tour! (And don’t miss Jordan’s excellent new
symphonic CD!
April 8, 2014
We are extremely pleased to announce that legendary JETHRO TULL frontman Ian Anderson will make a special guest appearance on our
upcoming studio album, "Other Arrangements."
Chris provides a little background:
"Ian has been a Tiles fan since way back in 1999 when we released Presents Of Mind. Over the years we floated the idea of him making a guest appearance and eventually the timing was
right. He was just finishing up mixing his new solo album Homo Erraticus and had a window of opportunity before he dove into
tour rehearsals and promotional stuff. We sent Ian a moody atmospheric tune and he wove some cool melodies in between vocal phrases; then cuts loose with his trademark flute
improvising during the song's long rideout solo. I think I listened to it twenty times to make sure it really happened - what a thrill for us and what a generous gesture from an icon
of progressive rock!"
January 30, 2014
We are excited to announce that Mike Portnoy (ex-Dream Theater, Winery Dogs, Flying Colors, Transatlantic, etc.) has contributed drums to two songs for our next studio album "Other
Arrangements" (not to be confused with the upcoming live CD "Off the Floor 02").
Chris flew to the east coast to Portnoy HQ a couple weeks ago (in between snow storms, luckily!) where Mike used his infamous TAMA "siamese monster" kit to deliver his instantly
recognizable and energetic style:
"What a treat to watch Mike work his magic! He was always experimenting and keeping things fresh and spontaneous. Mark Evans is the same way, with that "fly by the seat of your pants"
approach. Mike's tunes really work well alongside Mark's. Plus, we did a couple other cool things at Mike's which we'll announce later. Many thanks to Jerry Guidroz for making the
trip and capturing it all 'on tape.' "Other Arrangements" is shaping up to be quite the rhythm section tour-de-force!" - Chris.
January 12, 2014
A belated Happy New Year to everyone...
"Off the Floor 02" is scheduled for an April 1, 2014 release. Everyone's been hard at work mixing, mastering and designing these past few weeks. We've also been busy dodging the
weather and making good progress on "Other Arrangements."
Check out a new interview with Chris at MusicWeb Express 3000 where he discusses the origins of "Off the Floor," a bit
of band history and other bits of information.
October 17, 2013
By the way, "Off the Floor II" is mixed. We're now pulling together a few tracks from our 2005 appearance at the Rites of Spring Festival (ROSfest 2005) to include as possible bonus
tracks (Facing Failure, Paintings, Ballad of the Sacred Cows, and Window Dressing). Our set was recorded on 24 tracks and Terry Brown is ready to start mixing within the next few
weeks. Look for an early 2014 release...
(Although..., by including a couple more ROSfest tunes we could actually release a standalone "Tiles at ROSfest 2005" disc that would run almost an hour. We'll have to take that
under advisement... there's lots of good stuff available (and a few things we prefer no one hears again!))
May 10, 2013
Our good friend, bassist-extraordinaire Kevin Chown, has recently released a four song EP entitled "Light the Way." It's
a heavy, grandiose and melodic set of tunes featuring Kevin's debut on lead vocals and an impressive cast of stellar musicians. Also..., there's a Tiles connection with Chris writing
lyrics for "Ties That Bind." Click here for the official press release courtesy of Bravewords.com.
"Light the Way" is available digitally at CDBaby and iTunes. News on a physical CD release is forthcoming.
Proceeds from Kevin's EP will be used to help pay the substantial medical bills from his recent brain surgery (to mitigate his epileptic seizures). Kevin's in the early stages of
recovery and doing well He's also set up the Kevin Chown Brain Surgery/Recovery Fund, so please consider
even a small donation if possible.
Kevin guested on bass for the first Tiles CD and helped us produce "tiles," "Fence the Clear" and "Presents of Mind." He's currently a member of Chad Smith's Bombastic Meatbats and a member of Tarja Turunen's
band.
*******
In actual Tiles news..., coming soon is the first installment of the "Other Arrangements Studio Diary." Recording started in March and we've got a lot of progress to report on!
September 4, 2012
Tiles is pleased to announce the release of Off the Floor - now available at these outlets. "Off the Floor"
contains over 75-minutes of "live in the studio" performances which offer new perspectives on standout tracks from each of Tiles' five recordings.
Complete with a couple new interludes and adventurous extended jams Off the Floor gives the listener more than a carbon copy of the studio versions.
Especially noteworthy are guest appearances by Matthew Parmenter (Discipline) on violin, vocals, and mellotron and the Motor City Horns' flautist Keith Kaminski. An expanded arrangement of The Wading Pool is included as a bonus track.
Please visit the Off the Floor mini-site for more details including a video from the sessions.
Check out our Bandcamp page for an exclusive limited collector's edition of "Off the Floor" signed by artist Hugh Syme and
producer Terry Brown (plus the band of course). We're not exaggerating when we say "limited"!
Also at Bandcamp is a newly-mastered high resolution version of "Remember to Forget" from our GrooveBox session several years ago. Previously available as a free unmastered MP3, we think you'll consider the $1 upgrade version
well-worth-it!
January 13, 2012
Best wishes to everyone for a healthy, happy, and prosperous 2012!
After a fairly turbulent and challenging 2011, we are continuing work on Tiles #6 and a couple other projects that should hopefully see the light of day "sooner than later."
October 11, 2012
Jeff and Chris caught up with Dream Theater last week and visited the band after their Detroit show. Although it's been over 10-years since Tiles opened for Dream Theater (on the
first European leg of the "Scenes From A Memory" tour) the guys have stayed in touch and enjoyed catching up. The new Dream Theater album "A Dramatic Turn of Events" is an
exceptional piece of work as was the live show - truly inspirational. The guys have clearly delivered a masterpiece in the wake of Mike Portnoy's surprise departure - and new drummer Mike Mangini fits like a glove.
Buy the CD and see the show, you'll be glad you did!
July 12, 2011
Over the past couple of years Mark has received numerous requests to breakdown his drum part in the instrumental section of "Landscrape" (from Fly Paper). So
with Jeff manning the camera here's a low (no) budget demonstration of just exactly what's going on. We've never been sure either... so this is news to us too.
In other news... progress continues on writing (and re-writing) music for the next CD. We've added a few sections to the alleged song cycle - which has required Chris to expand his
story line a bit. Plans are also in the works to finally get the live CD mixed and released. Progress is slow, but steady.
June 2011
In response to requests, here is Jeff playing along to Ballad of the Sacred Cows from the Presents of Mind CD. We already have the next little video done. We'll will be
putting up on our youtube account and here on the homepage very soon. Be sure and check back!!
The band is also thrilled to let you know they've joined Twitter. Check them out via this link!
May 16, 2011
Here's a new video of Jeff playing the C Major and C Minor bourées from JS Bach's C Major solo cello suite. Aside from expanding his classical horizons, he and the band continue to
make progress on new music. Tiles played three of the new songs (Pretending to Run, Falter, and Drops of Rain) at their May 13th show - Drops of Rain for that "always nerve-wracking"
first time ("although the second public appearance of Falter was no less stressful" - Mark)...
April 29, 2011
Video is now available from our session at GrooveBox Studios in Detroit. Click here for "Remember to Forget."
March 23, 2011
Click for a new Tiles interview courtesy of the Part Time Rockers website. As the title implies, the focus of the site is on
musicians and band whose musical endeavors are part-time and wedged in amongst full-time careers. Be sure and scroll through the list of previous entries as there are a bunch of
interesting interviews (The Producers!)...
February 11, 2011
Our friends at ProgScape Radio will feature the world premiere of "Remember to Forget (live)" Tuesday, February 15th sometime
between 8-9pm EST. Remarkably, in our 17-year existence, "Remember to Forget" is our first-ever live song mixed from a multi-track recording (all the other live tunes we've released
are mixing board/2-track recordings). The song will be available soon on the site as a free download.
As previously mentioned, just after Thanksgiving last year we performed live at the GrooveBox studio in Detroit for a soon-to-be-released video webcast. Although it was very cold, we
had fun and delivered a decent performance. Especially noteworthy was an energetic reading of "Remember to Forget." Although by no means perfect, the song has a
"hang-on-by-the-seat-of-your-pants" quality that appeals to us, so we asked Terry Brown to give it a proper mix.
On the live front... Tiles is playing Saturday, March 5th at RECORD TIME in Roseville. Showtime is approximately 6pm and all ages
are welcome. Unfortunately, after 28 years the store is closing. Don't miss this chance to hear Tiles in a casual setting and bring the whole family to take advantage of sale-priced
cds, records, DVDs, etc... before this legendary store in no more. RECORD TIME is located at: 27360 GRATIOT AVE., ROSEVILLE, MI 48066. PHONE: (586)775-1550...
January 27, 2011
Although released in the U.K. this past December, Issue #13 of Classic Rock Presents Prog is just now hitting the newsstands in North America (reliably found at Borders and Barnes &
Noble stores). We are pleased to contribute the full length version of "Sacred & Mundane" (featuring Alex Lifeson of Rush) to the free "Prognosis" CD which is included with the
magazine.
In other news...
Just after Thanksgiving last year we performed live at the GrooveBox studio in Detroit for a soon-to-be-released video webcast. Although it was very cold, we had fun and delivered a
decent performance. Especially noteworthy was an energetic reading of "Remember to Forget." Although by no means perfect, the song really jumped out of the speakers, so we've had
Terry Brown give it a proper mix. It's actually our first-ever live song mixed from a multi-track recording (every other live song we've released has been from a mixing board 2-track
recording). We're planning to make the song available on our site as a free download in the near future.
December 15, 2010
Tiles will be performing on January 7th with Gearth at Fat Catz. Jeff says that the band "...along with Gearth will be playing extended sets on this evening. This is our first time
at Fat Catz and are very excited. Tiles goes on at 9:30 so be sure to be there early!!!! It's only $5.00 to get in. After Tiles is done Gearth will RAWK the place
down. We hope you can join us. A great way to start off the new year. We may even have a few surprises for you..."
December 1, 2010
Tiles will be performing this Saturday night with The Stage Junkies and Gravetown at The Dawg House. The Dawg House is located at 35965 Groesbeck HWY in Clinton Twp.
Michigan. The Doors open at 9:00 and it's only $5.00 to get in. This is probably our last show of the year. We hope to see you out for this special event. We may even have a few
surprises for you...
October 20, 2010
TILES has teamed up with rock violinist extraordinaire Joe Deninzon and his band Stratospheerius for an upcoming show:
Saturday, November 20th
Old Miami
3930 Cass Avenue
Detroit, MI 48201-1722
(313) 831-3830
Follow the links for more details...
In other news... our live recordings are pretty much ready for mixing. Matthew Parmenter (Discipline) has joined us on 2 songs: Changing the Guard (violin & vocals) and The Wading
Pool (mellotron). Also lending her considerable flautist talents is Maxine Petrucci on The Wading Pool (which, thanks to Jeff's insistence, has been fleshed out with additional
instrumentation). Several videos are completed and awaiting the elusive final mix, which we hope to get organized and underway soon.
In the meantime, work has begun in earnest on some new tunes which will eventually form a 60-minute song cycle revolving around the themes of adaptation & undelivered destiny. We're
about 15 minutes into the arrangements and can't begin to estimate when it might see the light of day, but we'll definitely test drive most of the tunes live...
August 31, 2010
TILES will be performing on the Ford Fiesta Stage at 5pm Sunday, September 5th during the 13th annual Arts, Beats & Eats
Festival in downtown Royal Oak, MI. The entire festival runs September 3-6, 2010 and celebrates art, music, cuisine and humanity with more than 200 performances on ten stages; a
highly ranked Juried Fine Arts Show; local restaurants with some of the finest cuisine in metro Detroit; and international, regional and local attractions.
Directions, location, parking info, and additional details are here.
August 10, 2010
TILES will be performing at 5pm Sunday, August 29th during the 4th annual People's Arts Festival at the Russell Industrial
Center, 1600 Clay Avenue in Detroit. Devoted to all aspects of the art community, the festival encompasses art, music, film and the rebirth of Detroit; and features more than 100
visual artists and craftspeople, over 60 bands and performers, plus film and fashion. Admission is free.
Directions, location, parking info, and additional details are here.
May 28, 2010
TILES will be performing at 8pm Monday, June 21st at the 4th annual Detroit River Days Festival in downtown Detroit. The band will conclude their 90-minute set just before the Target
Fireworks display is set to begin. Admission is free. This is a great opportunity to bring the whole family to the newly renovated riverfront to enjoy the festivities, catch a full
headlining show by TILES (including new material), and stay for fireworks over the river.
Directions, location, parking info, and additional details are here.
The June 18-21, 2010 festival is presented by the Detroit RiverFront Conservancy to introduce the community and visitors to the transformed Detroit International Riverfront. The
festival marks the opening of significant portions of the new Detroit RiverWalk and spotlights the river's history and cultural background with activities on land and water including:
tall ships, live music, sand sculptures, river tours, carnival rides, jet-ski demos, kids activities, delicious food and much more!
May 16, 2010
In November 2007 Chris spent a day at the Hotel St. Germain Des Pres in Paris doing press interviews in advance of the January 2008 release of "Fly Paper." One of the more unique
interviews was courtesy of the morow.com website which was video taped. Unfortunately,
technical problems had prevented the interview from streaming correctly causing it to disappear into obscurity. Well..., it's been repaired, resurrected and is now available for viewing. Chris discusses a bit of band history, how "Fly Paper" became a reluctant
concept album, and gives a bit of back story on where all the Rush connections originated.
March 18, 2010
Here is Jeff's latest YouTube video, although this is more of an instructional one rather than one based on a Tiles song:
March 11, 2010
Jeff and Chris were interviewed a few weeks ago for a feature called "Bands Like Rush," co-sponsored by the Rush Is a Band
website (...although such an endeavor may be better called "Bands Influenced by Rush" since there is only one Rush after all). Either way, the interview is available here in both audio and transcribed formats. Many thanks to Ben Sommer for
corralling over 15 years of reminiscence into an organized dialog. Be sure and check out Ben's eclectic music while you're there and visit often as he interviews more bands.
Even though our news output has been a little light we've been busy getting our live recordings together and ready for mixing. So far, in no particular order, the pending track
listing is: Remember to Forget; Modification; Taking Control; Cactus Valley; Patterns; Bass Segue #1; Sacred & Mundane; Hide in my Shadow; Dress Rehearsal; Bass Segue #2; Safe
Procedures; Checkerboards; Hide & Seek; Capture the Flag; Landscrape; Bass Segue #3; Window Dressing (Pt. IV); Token Pledge; Dragons, Dreams, and Daring Deeds; and Another's Hand. We
also plan to add Changing the Guard, Dancing Dogs, Analysis Paralysis, and The Wading Pool to round out the list along with a couple Special Guests. Stay tuned...
January 5, 2010
Happy New Year!
As previously mentioned we contributed our song Hide & Seek (from 2008's Fly Paper CD) to A&E TV's hit series "Dog the Bounty Hunter." The
specific episode (#152) entitled "Kid Stuff" will air this Wednesday, January 6th at 9:30pm EST. Additional show times and program details are available here.
To check out the clip, head here and go
to PART 2 at about 5:06 in the clip.
In addition to new material, work continues on a series of live soundstage recordings that we hope to release as a special 15-year anniversary commemorative double CD sometime this
year.
December 18, 2009
Best wishes to everyone for an enjoyable Holiday season - and a healthy and prosperous New Year!
November 17, 2009
Tiles has contributed the song Hide & Seek (from 2008's Fly Paper CD) to A&E TV’s hit series "Dog the Bounty Hunter" ...where 'heart-stopping
adventures of real-life bounty hunter Duane Chapman and his loyal band of family and colleagues are documented. Watch Dog and his crew capture notorious outlaws and fugitives
alike--all while doing their best to take care of their marriages, families, and communities.'
Show times and program details are available at: www.aetv.com/dog_the_bounty_hunter/
Check out the special section on A&E's website where they promote the music used in the
show.
In Other News: writing and arranging is in full swing as we work on a bunch of new tunes. We're also heading into the studio (well, a soundstage actually) with a small audience to
record the live set(s) we've been playing for the past two years. We haven't decided how to release it yet... maybe as a signed & numbered limited edition CD or something. Hopefully,
we can arrange a webcast too...
Be sure and keep checking our Upcoming Shows page - we'll be announcing more shows in the Detroit area and Midwest soon...
September 27, 2009
The season premier of A&E's "Parking Wars" will feature a small bit of our song "Static" (from Presents of Mind). The episode will first air Tuesday,
October 6th at 10pm EST. Visit the A&E site for more details and additional show times.
Next year marks the 15th anniversary of the international release of our debut CD tiles. We have been discussing what to do to commemorate the event and
thought it might be a good time for an official live CD... though probably just a self-released, limited edition, available through our website (and maybe one download site) - type of
thing. So while we figure out the production details visit our message board and make your song requests.
Work on new material is going well. In addition to the (15) songs already sketched out is the resurrection of "Destiny Undelivered," a 25-minute song cycle left over from the "Window
Dressing" era. We'll be auditioning these new tunes as we continue to play throughout the Detroit area in the coming months.
September 21, 2009
An upcoming episode of Parking Wars on A&E TV was recently filmed in Detroit and will include a Tiles song. Keep an ear
out for a bit of "Static" from our Presents of Mind CD. We'll post the show's date & time once we have the information.
August 13, 2009
An upcoming episode of Parking Wars on A&E TV was recently filmed in Detroit and will include a Tiles song. Keep an ear
out for a bit of "Static" from our Presents of Mind CD. We'll post the show's date & time once we have the information.
Speaking of Presents of Mind, the North American pressing on Magna Carta is officially out of print. Of course, you can still find copies floating
around, but if you're in the market for this CD we recommend buying or downloading the in-print 2004 Special Edition. Although technically an import, you can find it at domestic
prices at The Laser's Edge; Amazon.com & their retailers eBay; Amazon download store; and eMusic.com. Purchasing
or legally downloading the in-print version helps our cash flow ever-so-slightly...
July 20, 2009
We've got some new shows around Detroit scheduled, check here for the details.
Thanks to our generous German/American friend Al Grabenstein (who actually likes translating!) we have a few "new-to-English-speaking-people" Fly
Paper' reviews.
June 28, 2009
We're taking a month (+) off from live performances to concentrate on working up some new tunes. We'll be back in action around the Detroit area in August. The new songs will be
added to the live sets for road testing - which is something we haven't done since the pre-Fence The Clear days. It's hard to predict when we'll actually record or how any new music
will be released in light of the SPV bankruptcy activities (and the continuing popularity of free music) - but we hope to stay on the InsideOut Music roster in some shape or
form.
May 30, 2009
We recently completed a few minor modifications to the site and added a video page with links to the variety of Tiles clips on YouTube. Also posted is an
"easier to find" link to our sound check jam with Dream Theater from our European tour all those years ago.
Paul & Chris recorded their recent "command performance" of The Wading Pool which is now up on YouTube.
We've officially begun working on ideas for what will hopefully materialize as our 6th recording. It's in the early stages so we're not sure what direction the music will take us.
There are a lot of unusually heavy riffs (for us) but Chris also has a bunch of keyboard-based songs that might interest the other guys.
In the meantime, we plan to continue playing around the Detroit area and branching out a bit in the Midwest if the opportunity arises.
April 20, 2009
We're drifting to the progressive rock end of the spectrum for a couple of new shows on May 1st and May 2nd. Joining us will be fellow Detroit area progsters Realm, Sweet Crystal, Milwaukee's Strange Land, and a few more bands TBA. Visit our Live / Upcoming Shows page for the details.
We've joined the Facebook revolution (along with Jeff) - just search for "tiles."
We've also started a page at ReverbNation. It's a great site for discovering all styles of cool new underground music.
March 24, 2009
