Fall 2003

Kara and Craig Markley's new release
Craig and Kara just completed their new CD, "Once Upon A Winter Moon".  It was just sent out for mastering and should be back from the pressing plant in several weeks.  

The CD, which sports a winter/holiday theme, features new original compositions as well as some traditional material.  

Supporting musicians include Beckie Boger, Pete Cary, Deborah Colón, Karl Colón, Elizabeth Demorest, Michael Douce, Hilda Doyle, Heather Doyle-Fraser, Stephanie Doyle-Kephart, Kay Harris, Robb Jarrett, Sid Omasta, Molly Pauken, and David Reddick.

Heartstone in studio
Ohio Celtic band, Heartstone will be in the studio recording their next project.  It promises to contain some exciting new material, featuring a couple of beautiful original compositions by Trish Featherstone.

The Kells 
The Kells, consisting of Brian McCoy, Kim Rattan and Eddie Cotter will begin working on their new project.  I know this will be hot, so check this page often for updates.

Kara at the Ohio Renaissance Festival
From August 23-October 18, Kara will be performing on fiddle at various times during the day at the Ohio Renaissance Festival.  Times vary, but there is usually a regular performance scheduled from 10:30-11:30 AM in the Knight's Arena area.   

New Studio Gear
Lone Raven Studio has just added another new mic pre to its arsenal of hi-end processing equipment.  Richard Bowman and the fine folks at Trans Audio Group  informed us of the new Phoenix Audio mic pre, with the infamous Neve circuitry.  Also added, is a new AEA ribbon microphone, which has been getting a lot of use on current tracking sessions.

Brad Moore, "What If"
For those of you who have still not purchased a copy of Brad Moore's new CD, Do it Now!!  It is a great project and the start of many more to come.  You can check Brad's great website out at www.bradmoore.net.

Summer 2003

Craig and Kara Markley
Craig and Kara are working on the completion of their new Holiday CD, which should be completed by mid-October.  The CD will consist of traditional and original selections, and feature many of the area's hottest musicians.  

River Crossing
River Crossing just completed a grand total of 26 tracks for their newest double CD release.  They are a very talented group, specializing in traditional Celtic music.  Catch them live, if they are in your area!

Sirens
Kay Harris and Molly Pauken are in the studio working on a track for their newest Sirens' CD, expected to be released very soon.  This is going to be a great CD, so keep your ears to the ground for its release.  More news is available at www.sirensmusic.com.

Matt McCreary
Matt McCreary has been in the studio working on his latest recording project.  Assisting Matt on his arrangements and instrumentation is techno wiz, Robb Jarrett.  Check here for more info on Robb's personal band project, Orchard.

Spring 2003

Hilda Doyle
Hilda just completed her newest solo CD containing 15 original tracks.  All of the tracks were recorded, edited and produced at Lone Raven Studios.  Mastering was done by Trevor Sadler at Narada. This is absolutely one of my favorite projects, and you must pick up a copy!!  More info is available at www.hildadoyle.com

River Crossing
Wooster area "River Crossing" is in the studio working on their newest release of traditional and original Celtic music.  This will be a good one, so keep on the lookout for its release date.

Kim Rattan and Brian McCoy
Kim and Brian are in the studio working on some of Kim's newest material.  As always, Kim proves to be one of the best guitarist/vocalist in the area, and the addition of Brian on flute, whistle and pipes provides for a great blend.  

Winter 2003

Michael Douce
Michael Douce just completed his newest solo CD, which is back from the pressing plant and ready for sale.  The CD consists of 13 selections, 10 of which were written by Michael.  Also included are selections by David Tolley, Chad Steahly and "Coincidence Maybe" founder, Travis Becknell.  Michael debuts his vocal talents on this recording, along with some great vocals from guitarist, Chad Steahly and Laura Douce.  For more information, contact Michael at mdouce@butler.edu.

Sherryl Sheets
Sherryl Sheets was in the studio working her magic to produce voiceovers for one of her new projects. Sherryl has lent her talents to many major projects.  For more information check out her website.

Kara and Craig
Kara and Craig have released an updated version of their Winter/Holiday themed CD.  The expanded version includes three new selections, and is available now.  For more information, send us an email.

Shelly Martin
Shelly Martin recently completed a demo recording of one of her new original songs.  The song, which is in a pop/jazz vein (reminiscent of Nora Jones), features Shelly on vocals, with Craig Markley on piano and chalumeau. Be on the lookout for a future release from Shelly.

Fall 2002

Stark Raven at OAPN Conference
Stark Raven will be performing at the Ohio Arts Presenter's Network showcase in Cincinnati on October 14.  In addition, Lone Raven Music and Stark Raven will be displaying on the exhibit floor for the length of the three-day conference.  

Cincinnati Celtic Festival
Special thanks to Cindy Matyi and the wonderful people at Cincinnati Folk Life for another fantastic and fun-filled Celtic Festival.  This festival, held at Coney Island, is one of the best in the area, and just keeps getting better.  Thanks Guys!!

Summer 2002

Studio News
Brad Moore is putting the finishing touches on his demo CD and is gearing up for Nashville.  The demo will become part of his first solo release.

Keyboard whiz, Michael Douce, is back in the studio working on his second release, which should be completed before the Holiday season.  Michael has some great new original material for this project.

Kara and Craig Markley have started their new CD, which will consist of new original material as well as some traditional tunes.  

Winter/Spring 2002

Hilda Doyle/Heartstone/Brad Moore in the Studio
Things have been really busy at the Lone Raven Studio:  Hilda Doyle has been in the studio laying down tracks for her upcoming solo release.  Let me say right now that this is some of the best original material that I have heard in awhile....be on the look-out for it.  Also, Central Ohio Celtic band, "Heartstone", is starting tracks for their second recording.  This is going to be another great CD from one of the hottest Celtic bands in the area.  Last, but not least, area performer Brad Moore is starting tracks for his new solo project.  Brad has a very expressive voice, and is writing some really great material in the pop/country vein.  This will be another good one!

Fall 2001

"GET COMMITTED"
the long-awaited new release from Stark Raven is available, and just in time for your Christmas shopping.  The CD will initially be available by mail and at all Stark Raven gigs.  It is also available on-line at efolkmusic and will be at Amazon in the near future, along with the band's first recording and Craig Markley's solo recording.  Advanced orders have been great, so be on the lookout for future reviews.

Disc Makers and Lone Raven Studio
Lone Raven Studio has now joined up with Disc Makers to become a part of their Studio Partner Program.  Disc Makers is one of the premier manufacturers of music packages for independent artists.  With their great prices and wonderful service, we are looking forward to a long lasting partnership.  

Stark Raven and the "Welsh Hills Symphony"
For those of you who missed the Stark Raven concert with the Welsh Hills Symphony Orchestra, it was a great show.  Taking place at the breath-taking Dawes Arboretum, the orchestra, directed by William Boggs, performed a wonderful half-hour program before Stark Raven took the stage.  After Stark Raven's performance, the band were joined by the orchestra to perform several of their original compositions.  These included long-time favorites, "A Change in the Air" by Craig Markley and "My William" by David Reddick.  Special thanks to percussionist Cary Dachtyl for his wonderful arrangements of these for the orchestra. 

Summer 2001

Stark Raven is "Committed"
Mixing has just been completed for the long awaited second release from Stark Raven.   Titled "Committed", the CD contains a total of 15 tracks spanning almost 70 minutes worth of new music from the band.  The project was recorded at the Lone Raven Studio and it was engineered and produced by Craig Markley.  Mastering will be done at Tom Boyer's studio and the CD should be available for sale before the end of the year.

Ready to learn to play fiddle?
Some of you had inquired about fiddle lessons with Kara Markley.  Well, she is now teaching fiddle at the Delaware Arts Castle.  For more details, you can contact the Arts Castle at 740/369-2787.

Studio Upgrade
The Lone Raven Studio has recently upgraded from Digidesign's Pro Tools Mix Plus to the new Mix3 system.  The enhancement offers increased processing power to allow for a higher track/effects count.  In addition, several new high end plug-ins have been added to the system.  

Spring 2001

Michael Douce and the Olentangy Class of 2001
Michael Douce was in the studio during the month of May and finished a CD for the Olentangy High School Class of 2001.  The CD features members of the Olentangy Show Choir, along with recitations from the faculty and students.  Michael composed the music for many of the selections, with assistance from vocalist/guitarist Chad Steahly on "In Our Hearts", the title cut.  CDs will be presented to all senor class members and faculty.

Stark Raven in Studio
Stark Raven have been working hard on their new CD.  The recording will contain 13 selections, including traditional and original compositions.  It is expected to see a late fall release date.  

"The Lone Raven" is featured CD on Limerick.com
The Irish website, Limerick.com, has just posted a review for "The Lone Raven" in its Music section.  Jae Taylor has done a wonderful job with this extensive site and keeps it updated on a regular basis.  There is also a wonderful "Links" section, so be sure to check it out.

New Changeling Website!!
Lone Raven buddies Karl and Deborah Colon of Changeling have just completed a major revamping of their "Mad Celts" website.  Featuring some great Flash animation, it is just in time for the release of their new CD, "The Hidden World".  The CD, which was recorded at Lone Raven Studios, features some very unique tunes and songs, as well as some of the best playing that you will ever hear.  Visit their website for more details, MP3 samples and ordering information.

Winter 2001

Aliens Land At Byrne's Pub!!
This just in from Karl and Deborah Colon of Changeling.  While doing a last minute performance at Byrne's Pub the other night (due to a schedule mix-up with Stark Raven), a strange happening occurred. 

Karl responds, "Everything went fine at Byrne's, or what's left of it. There was a small problem with a meteor hitting the building at the height of the concert, several people with guitar-pick shaped heads coming out of something called a "mothership" and demanding that we take them to our leader for "probing."  I am not sure what happened to Pat (Byrne) after they took him on the ship, but I suppose everything turned out all right".

Editor's Note:  I have been informed that Pat has been safely returned and will be able to meet his upcoming hectic St. Patrick's Day schedule.

Coincidence Maybe
We just received a copy of the much-anticipated release from Coincidence Maybe and I have to tell you....This Is One Hot CD!!  The CD,  titled "The Fall of October", consists of all new original material from the band.  If you have not caught this band live yet, now is the time!  Check them out at their website at www.coincidencemaybe.com.

"The Lone Raven" Provides Music for the New 
Gabriel Byrne WebSite
Internationally known Irish actor, Gabriel Byrne, has just launched his official WebSite, and "The Lone Raven", the title track from the new release by Craig Markley, was chosen for the site's soundtrack.  Mr. Byrne, who has acted in such films as "The Man in the Iron Mask", "Little Women", "End of Days", "Dead Man", "Enemy of State" and many many more, is starring in the new ABC TV series, "Madigan Men".  Aside from his acting career, Mr. Byrne is a very gifted author, producer, and screenwriter.  

The site was designed by Kate Higgins from City Media Sites in California.  Kate has designed sites for such actors as Mel Gibson, Johnny Depp, etc., and definitely has an eye for a sharp-looking design. 

Fall 2000

Coincidence Maybe
Kara and Craig Markley just finished laying down some fiddle, vocal, and whistle tracks for the latest recording from "Coincidence Maybe".  The band has written some great new original material, and have a very promising future ahead.  They are making time in their busy schedule to hold a concert at Liberty Presbyterian Church on January 21.  This is one you won't want to miss!

Michael Douce
Pianist/composer Michael Douce has been in the studio putting the finishing touches on his new CD.  The recording consists of all original material, and should be available just in time for Michael's concert at Liberty Presbyterian Church on November 19.

Sirens CD Release Party
Craig and Kara will be playing at the Sirens CD release party on September 28.  Sirens are Kay Harris and Molly Pauken and, although both have appeared on numerous recordings, this is their first release together.  Consisting of all original material, the CD was recorded primarily at Spiral Studio and Lone Raven Studio, with Bob Matteo and Craig Markley engineering.  Craig also provided the majority of keyboard tracks, as well as accordion and whistles.  Kay and Molly have written some wonderful new material for this recording and you really need to check it out.  It is available at Amazon.com as well as other various online sites, and at all Sirens live gigs.

Radio Scotland
"The Lone Raven" CD is getting airplay on the Radio Scotland program.  Check it out for 24 hour/7 days a week Celtic programming.  Their playlist can be found here.

Summer 2000

Another great Dublin Irish Festival
This year's Dublin Irish Festival was the best yet.  This Central Ohio festival continues to grow, and attracts the best local and national artists.  The festival has featured Cherish The Ladies, Solas, Dervish, Arcady, Altan, The Black Family, DeDannan, Stark Raven, Changeling, Silver Arm and many many more.  In addition to the Stark Raven performances, Craig and Kara Markley performed at the festival this year for the first time.  Kara was particularly excited to meet the wonderful Irish singer, Frances Black, as the first song she ever performed live was a version of Bill Staines' "The River", which she originally heard sung by Frances when she was with Arcady.  If you missed the festival this year, make sure it is on your calendar for next year.

Highlands of Ohio Concert
Kara and Craig Markley played a concert last month for the folks in Bellville, Ohio.  The concert, which was sponsored by Fate and Melanie Christian of the Highlands of Ohio, also featured the Natives of the Andes musical group.  Craig had a chance to brush-up on his drumming chops when he sat in with the talented group from the South American Andes region.  (Thanks to Paul Reece for the photo)

The Lone Raven featured MP3 download on Amazon.com
Thanks to Chuck Brown over at Horizons Video and Disc City Records, we were notified that "The Lone Raven" is a featured download selection on the Amazon.com New Music Spotlight site.  And, if you have not done so, check out the Disc City site!

Changeling Recording Finished
Deborah and Karl Colon of Changeling have just finished the recording of their latest CD.  It features seven traditional and original sets of tunes that are very tastefully arranged.  In addition,  Karl has managed to come up with seven very unique songs....he must have searched the archives to come up with these babies....and they are really nice!  Ged Foley and Craig Markley worked for marathon hours on the mixing and editing, and everything came off great.  During the mixing process, Ged took advantage of the Lone Raven laundry facility several times, and also became quite fond of our Siberian Husky, Tonka....this man is a dog magnet!!!  So, with some strong coffee, sweet cookies, and plenty of Reese's peanut butter cups, the product is ready to go over to Tom Boyer's suite for the mastering process.  It should be out soon, so keep your eyes open.

Todd Holland and Michael Douce
Todd Holland was in Nashville shopping his latest recording.  Todd has written some great songs and may be relocating to Nashville soon.  The music was played and arranged by piano ace, Michael Douce, who has also written some gorgeous instrumental pieces.  Look for Todd to be back in the studio soon to record some new material.

Beth Hicks schedules CD release party
Beth Hicks has completed her solo CD and hopes to have it back from the pressing plant in time for her CD release party on July 30.  The recording and mixing were done here at Lone Raven Studio, and Tom Boyer did the Mastering.

Victoria Parks
Singer/Songwriter Victoria Parks is in the studio to begin work on her new CD.  I have not heard all of the material yet, but she has some wonderful new songs that she will be recording.  Victoria has a great knack for writing traditional sounding songs, and there will be a wide selection of musicians participating on the recording.

Spring 2000

Beth Hicks new solo CD project nears an end
Beth Hicks is nearing the mixing stage of her solo CD project.  Aside from her fellow Knot Fibb'n bandmates, some of the area's finest musicians have contributed to the project.

Changeling
Karl and Deborah Colon will be coming to the studio in several weeks, along with their producer, Ged Foley (The House Band, Patrick Street) to lay down tracks for their newest release.  They have been working like madmen (and women) on these tunes, so you just know it's gonna be HOT!

Kay Harris and Molly Pauken
Kay Harris has been in the studio laying down vocal tracks for her and Molly's new recording.  Molly has already completed most of her instrumental tracks, many of them being engineered by Bob Matteo and Craig Markley.  Some additional keyboard, whistle, and accordion parts are also being added by Craig.  Look for this to be a hot release, with plenty of variety.

Singer/Songwriter Todd Holland 
Todd Holland was in the studio laying down vocals for two of his newest compositions.  The instrumental tracks were performed and arranged by keyboardist Michael Douce.  The songs are very nice, and we wish Todd the best of luck!

Winter 2000

Beth Hicks begins recording for new solo CD
Flute and whistle wiz, Beth Hicks, of the popular Celtic band Knot Fibb'n, has started laying down tracks for her new solo CD.  The CD will feature Beth on traditional Celtic, Classical and original tunes.

Lone Raven Studio upgrades to Pro Tools
LRM Studio has upgraded their digital recording equipment to the Pro Tools system from Digidesign.  Using a top of the line MixPlus system, 32 plus track 24 bit hi-res recording is now available.  

Fall 1999

Stark Raven begins recording tracks for new CD
At long last, Stark Raven is in the studio laying down tracks for their new CD.  Expected release date to be sometime in 2000.

Beckie Boger begins work on new recording at Lone Raven Studios
Stark Raven member Beckie Boger has just began recording tracks for her new project.   The recording will consist of many of Beckie's wonderful original compositions, and feature fellow Stark Raven members and other area musicians.

Spring/Summer 1999

Lone Raven Music Welcomes New Distributors
"The Lone Raven" is now available from Tayberry Music and Celtic Treasures

The new Oasis CD sampler
The title track from "The Lone Raven" has been selected to be included on the new Oasis sampler.  This CD sampler is sent to radio stations throughout the country, and has been featured on the "Top 10" playlist of many of them.  The CD should be available within the next several months.

"The Lone Raven" airs on Echoes
Several tracks from "The Lone Raven" have been receiving steady airplay on the nationally syndicated NPR program, Echoes, hosted by John DiLeberto. John has described the music as "New American Folk Chamber Music". If you have not yet caught this wonderful program, be sure to tune in.

Deborah and Karl Colon start new recording at Lone Raven Studios
Lone Raven buddies, Karl and Deborah Colon of "The Gabriel Hounds", are beginning to lay down tracks for their new "Changeling" CD. The recording will consist of both traditional and original material. As anyone who knows Karl and Deborah's work, this promises to be a very hot recording.

Toss the Feathers Interview
The May 22, 1999 airing of the Columbus, Ohio based Celtic music program, "Toss the Feathers", will feature a review with Craig Markley, and highlight tracks from Craig's new release, The Lone Raven. Toss the Feathers is a produced by Doug and Anna Dickson, and airs Saturdays on WCBE 90.5 FM from 3:00-6:00 PM.

Ravens make their way back to Ohio
Before Ohio was settled, the raven was the most plentiful corvoid (crowlike bird).  Ravens prefer large unbroken areas of forests.  Crows moved in when the Ohio country opened up and the raven retreated.  "I think you will find them moving back into the state and exploiting the enormous tracts of abandoned strip mines in southeastern Ohio.  We are reviewing a sighting of a raven last March in Lake County.  ....it would be the first documented sighting of a raven in Ohio since 1946."       -John Switzer, The Columbus Dispatch-April 21, 1999

Winter 1999

Craig Markley's new CD release, "The Lone Raven", is finally shipping!!
After almost two years in the making, the new CD release from Craig Markley, of the popular band Stark Raven, is shipping.  Aside from the 11 original and traditional music tracks, the CD also contains a CD-ROM track with extra photos, notes and a bonus audio track.  A host of wonderful musicians played on the CD, including Craig's bandmates from Stark Raven, Karl Colon, Deborah Colon, and Eddie Cotter of the Gabriel Hounds, Kirk Lynch of Scartaglen, Steve and Cindy Matyi of Silver Arm, Kay Harris, John Sherman, and Mark Wade.  Buy one now and help Craig pay off the loan!!! 

Stark Raven members on  Ray Boltz's new release, "Honor and Glory"
David Reddick and Craig Markley played on parts of the new CD release, "Honor and Glory",  by the nationally acclaimed Christian artist, Ray Boltz.  Dave played guitars and bouzouki, and Craig played whistles and accordion.  The CD was produced by Steve Millikan, and the parts were overdubbed at the Lone Raven Music studio.  The CD is available at all Borders Books and Music stores, as well as most large CD stores.

Dulcimer Times Magazine features Craig Markley composition
Craig Markley's original composition, "Softly She Whispers" was featured in the February  issue of Dulcimer Times magazine, published by Kendra Ward-Bence and Bob Bence of Upcreek Productions. The air, which was written by Craig in 1994, may be found in a recorded version on the self-titled CD by Stark Raven.

Overdubs for new recording by Sue Mogan-Mattison
Dave and Craig have been working on several tracks for the upcoming CD from Stark Raven vocalist, Sue Mogan-Mattison.  The CD features Zan McLeod, John Sherman, Stark Raven, and many more.  Expect a Fall '99 release date.