Ex-MELIAH RAGE Frontman MIKE MUNRO Records Piano-And-Voice Cover Of BLACK SABBATH Classic

Micah Sheveloff, co-founder of THE VOODOO JETS, will release a collection of piano-based songs called "Exhibitionist" on July 1, featuring a host of guest artists. The first track to be unveiled, a piano-and-voice cover of BLACK SABBATH's "Heaven and Hell" recorded with former MELIAH RAGE singer Mike Munro, will be released on YouTube to commemorate the second anniversary of the legendary SABBATH singer's passing.

"This rendition of 'Heaven And Hell' has been percolating inside my head since the song was first released over 30 years ago," Sheveloff said. "I wanted to maintain the dark feel of the track on solo piano, staying away from anything too flowery while layering in some interesting chord changes — and the huge voice of Mike Munro seemed like a perfect fit. I am so thankful we were able to work together."

Sheveloff's release contains ten songs encompassing a wide array of mood, tempo and lyrical content. There are eight original compositions plus the BLACK SABBATH track and another cover duet with legendary Boston singer/songwriter Rick Berlin. Berlin sings Sheveloff's piano arrangement of CHEAP TRICK's "Heaven Tonight".

"I had several fundamental goals for this record — the first was to sing my own songs, establish my own voice," Sheveloff explained. "I also wanted an opportunity to mix in the personalities and creative sensibilities of some gifted musicians, and everyone who participated in the project was amazing. I think recording live to 2-inch tape was a big part of it — I kept computers out of the equation until the mixing stage and that process allows great players to shine. I think we captured a lot of genuine human energy on this record," Sheveloff added.

Drummer Greg Trabandt and bassist Clint Amereno anchored Sheveloff's original songs, with guitarist Ed Vick sizzling on five tracks. Sheveloff also enlisted noted guitarist Marc Shulman (SUZANNE VEGA) to impart his ethereal style on two of the original songs. "I played a session some years ago and I remember asking the producer — who played those tasty guitar tracks? I've been looking for an opportunity to work with Marc ever since," recalled Sheveloff.

Rounding out the guest list is renowned Vermont guitarist Paul Asbell and vocalist James Mix who teamed up with Connecticut jazz rhythm players Steve Clark (bass) and drummer Paul Mills on a song called "Too Many Times".

"Exhibitionist" is an honest record. The writing is uninhibited; the players played, the singers stepped up to the mic and sung the songs. Recorded at New Haven's Firehouse 12 using a 9-foot concert Steinway and a vintage Hammond B3, "Exhibitionist" is meant to be an intimate experience.