DHL Group to Invest more than EUR 500 million in Fast-Growing Markets in the Middle East
DHL Group (“DHL”), the world's leading logistics provider, has announced plans to invest more than EUR 500 million in the Middle East, with a strategic focus on the rapidly expanding Gulf markets of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This investment, set to take place between 2024 and 2030, underscores DHL’s commitment to the region and its importance for the future of global trade. DHL Group’s Strategy 2030, launched in 2024, prioritizes growth regions and geographic tailwinds generated by shifts in global trade. The investment spans all four DHL divisions – DHL Express, DHL Global Forwarding, DHL Supply Chain, and DHL eCommerce – and will significantly strengthen the region’s logistics backbone. By enhancing infrastructure, expanding networks and capacity, and elevating service capabilities, DHL aims to empower businesses operating across and with the Middle East to capitalize on growth opportunities from trade, ensuring support and resilience for customers as they navigate evolving market demands. The company’s divisions provide a broad portfolio of logistics and transportation services to customers in the Middle East, including express parcel delivery, air, ocean and overland freight, warehousing, fulfilment and distribution, customs brokerage and specialized operations for sectors such as life sciences, healthcare, e-commerce and battery logistics. “The region of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is rapidly emerging as a global logistics and innovation hub,” said John Pearson, CEO of DHL Express. “Our investment reflects the region’s increasing strategic importance in connecting Asia, Europe, and Africa, and our commitment to supporting its transformation into a catalyst for regional and global trade. DHL Express is seeing dynamic growth and export potential in the region’s e-commerce sector, for example, which is providing opportunities for entrepreneurs and smaller businesses to expand their offering to global markets.” Supporting FDI, exports and building supply chain resilience The Middle East is emerging as a vital trade hub, facilitating commerce between Asia, Europe, and the US while serving as a gateway to Africa. The region is witnessing growth not only due to attracting investments from multinationals expanding their operations but also because Gulf- and Middle East-based businesses are growing and increasing their exports. DHL's services, the local and global expertise of its team, and the flexibility offered by the company’s extensive transportation and warehousing network and digital platforms, automation and technologies help businesses build supply chain resilience at a time of heightened volatility and uncertainty in global trade. Hendrik Venter, CEO of DHL Supply Chain, Europe, Middle East & Africa, added, “DHL Supply Chain has actively expanded in Saudi Arabia and UAE in recent years, recognizing the positive economic development, the increasing maturity and sophistication of supply chain operations in the region and the growing demand for specialized, outsourced logistics support. With a strong focus on the energy sector, life sciences, healthcare, and technology, we are poised to take advantage of our contract logistics expertise to meet the unique needs of our customers and drive innovation in these critical areas.” Amadou Diallo, CEO of DHL Global Forwarding, Middle East & Africa, remarked, “This investment underscores our confidence in the Middle East's economic trajectory and our continued commitment to be ahead of the curve in digital capabilities and sustainable transportation for our customers. We also consistently aim to find entrepreneurial freight forwarding solutions that build supply chain resilience, keep their goods flowing and help them to uncover growth opportunities in a world that is characterized by uncertainty and volatility. By expanding our operations, we will be even better positioned to support our clients in navigating the complexities of international trade and logistics.” DHL Group recognizes the growing opportunities in the energy sector, encompassing traditional oil and gas as well as renewables and electrification. The company also sees potential in the life sciences and healthcare markets, alongside the burgeoning e-commerce landscape. For example, The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) is experiencing a strong inbound market for B2C, especially with high-end goods, driven by ongoing tourism initiatives and events. Targeted investments in quality, capacity and efficiency The investments will focus on the following areas across DHL's business units: (1) DHL Express: Investments will be made in hub and gateway facilities, as well as enhancing aviation capacity to improve service efficiency and delivery speed. (2) DHL Global Forwarding: The company will expand its overall presence in the region, invest in its fleet – including electric trucks – and pursue joint venture initiatives such as the recent joint venture with Etihad Rail to enhance connectivity and logistics capabilities. (3) DHL Supply Chain: There will be an expansion of the contract logistics offering in both the UAE and KSA, which includes increasing warehousing capacity, upgrading equipment, and integrating advanced technology to optimize operations. (4) DHL eCommerce: The acquisition of the delivery provider AJEX in Saudi Arabia will enhance DHL's e-commerce capabilities, facilitating better last-mile delivery services in a rapidly growing market. DHL is also committed to sustainability, investing in alternative fuel, and electric delivery vehicles, aviation fuels in air freight and biofuels for road and ocean freight, as well as solar energy and clean power for facilities. This commitment ensures that supply chains become more sustainable, and customers achieve their net zero ambitions. This is aligned with the agenda of governments in the region to lead on environmental sustainability. DHL aims to implement best practices in logistics and innovation, strengthening its longstanding position as a leader and investor in the talent and economic potential of the Middle East.
David Beckham and G Bear Light Up Macao Celebrating the Official Launch of Londoner Grand
Londoner Grand, redefining luxury at scale, welcomed over a hundred celebrities and influencers over the weekend with dazzling parties hosted by Sands Global Ambassador David Beckham and his charismatic friend, G Bear, The Londoner’s No.1 Ambassador and Chief Experience Officer. The star-studded event delivered an evening of world-class entertainment, culinary artistry, and unforgettable moments. More than a party, the event heralded Londoner Grand’s transformation from whispered anticipation to legendary reality – unfolding a bold new chapter in Macao’s luxury hospitality landscape. Highlights included the Whispers Cocktail at Shakespeare Hall and the Whispers Gala at Hampton Court, featuring a curated menu by the acclaimed Chef Edward Lee of Culinary Class Wars fame, alongside signature dishes from The Huaiyang Garden (two-Michelin-starred) and The Mews (Michelin Selected) at The Londoner® Macao. (From left to right) Grant Chum, Chief Executive Officer and President, Sands China Ltd.; David Beckham, Sands Global Ambassador; Dr. Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman, Sands China Ltd. and; Dave Sun, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Sands China Ltd. Sands Global Ambassador David Beckham Acclaimed Chef Edward Lee The evening also offered show-stopping performances, interactive experiences and Instagrammable moments, all designed to wow the A-list audience. Beckham’s presence, along with G Bear’s playful yet debonair personality, created a perfect blend of glamour and charm. Guests left the evening inspired by the unique experiential offerings of Londoner Grand and eagerly anticipating the opening of G Bear Cafe on June 9, 2025.
Dusit makes a graceful debut in Sichuan with new luxury retreat in Chengdu
Dusit Hotels and Resorts, the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its presence in China with the opening of Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu – a luxurious new retreat set amidst the scenic surrounds of Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park in Xinjin, Chengdu. Marking Dusit’s eighth property in China – and its first in Sichuan Province – the hotel brings the warmth and elegance of Thai-inspired, gracious hospitality to one of the country’s most picturesque and ecologically rich destinations. The result is a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and contemporary comfort. Surrounded by verdant tea gardens and organic farms just 30 minutes from downtown Chengdu and Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport – and only 20 minutes from Xinjin High-Speed Railway Station – the hotel features 241 thoughtfully designed guest rooms and seven private luxury villas. Each space has been crafted to provide a peaceful sanctuary where relaxation, well-being, and cultural immersion take centre stage. Among the hotel’s premium facilities are Harvest, an all-day dining restaurant with a farm-to-table focus; The View, a speciality barbecue restaurant; a refined Chinese restaurant with eight private dining rooms; a stylish lobby lounge; an indoor swimming pool; a fully equipped gym; mahjong rooms; a dedicated kids’ club; and a pillarless, multi-functional conference hall with three versatile meeting rooms. Guests can also enjoy a wealth of enriching experiences, including guided nature walks, hands-on craft workshops, and educational visits to the Tianfu Agricultural Expo Main Pavilion and the Rural Revitalisation Demonstration Zone – all contributing to the resort’s appeal as an ideal destination for couples, families, and eco-conscious business and leisure travellers seeking meaningful escapes. “This new hotel embodies Dusit’s commitment to gracious hospitality rooted in Thai values, while embracing the cultural richness and natural beauty of Sichuan,” said Mr Luke Lu, General Manager, Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu. “We’ve created a unique sanctuary where guests can reconnect with nature, experience local traditions, and enjoy meaningful moments with family – all within a tranquil and inspiring setting. We look forward to welcoming our guests and helping them create lasting memories throughout their stay.” To celebrate its grand opening, Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu will host a Thai Food Festival from now through 30 June 2025, featuring signature dishes prepared by visiting Thai culinary talent, including Chef Vorapoj ‘Christian’ Caluwaert, Assistant Director of Culinary at Dusit International, and Chef Watcharapon ‘Ja’ Yongbanthom, Head Chef of Benjarong Restaurant at Dusit Thani Manila. Festival highlights include Green Curry Chicken, Tom Yum Goong (spicy prawn soup), Pad Thai (stir-fried rice noodles), Mango Sticky Rice, and more. Guests can enjoy à la carte Thai favourites from Sunday to Friday or savour a Thai-themed buffet dinner on Saturdays for CNY188 per person. The hotel has also introduced the‘Dusit Experience’package, available for bookings and stays from now through 31 August 2025, with rates starting at CNY 799. The offer includes one night’s accommodation in a Deluxe Room, daily breakfast for two, complimentary in-room beverages and snacks on the first night, and admission to Tianfu Agricultural Museum for two adults and one child. For bookings and enquiries, please visit https://www.dusit.com/dusit-hotel-ag-park
-
LOT Polish Airlines entered into a codeshare partnership with Taiwanese airline EVA Air
LOT Polish Airlines has launched a codeshare partnership with Taiwanese carrier EVA Air. From now on, LOT passengers will have access to new travel options on the route from Warsaw to Taipei (TPE), Taiwan’s rapidly growing metropolis. The route will be operated with a convenient connecting flight at one of two international airports: Vienna or Tokyo (NRT). With the codeshare agreement, it will take just one ticket for the whole trip, under the same baggage policy and fare conditions, making it way easier and clearer to plan the trip. Also, passengers can earn miles onboard both airlines through their loyalty schemes, including Miles & More and Infinity MileageLands. Both LOT Polish Airlines and EVA Air operate under codeshare agreements with other key carriers in the region, such as All Nippon Airways (ANA), Air China, and Asiana Airlines. With these alliances, passengers can take advantage of an extensive range of flights to a number of Asian metropolises, gaining access to an even wider range of destinations while enjoying the same high quality of service and smooth travelling conditions. The airlines have announced their intention to expand their cooperation to include new destinations, offering passengers even more choice and improved flight availability. LOT Polish Airlines passengers can already book new flights, which will be available from 9 June 2025. Tickets for the flights are available via all of LOT Polish Airlines and EVA Air’s sales channels, including the lot.com website, LOT Contact Centre and LOT Travel offices.
-
Airbus signs contract to equip German Air Force A400M aircraft with infrared protection systems
Airbus has been awarded a contract from the German procurement agency Bundesamt für Ausrüstung, Informationstechnik und Nutzung der Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) to equip 23 Luftwaffe A400Ms with DIRCM protection systems. DIRCM stands for ‘Directed Infrared Counter Measures’ and will protect the military transport aircraft from missiles with infrared seekers. Under the contract just signed, the company will also provide services including training, service bulletins and tools. “Transporting troops, equipment and humanitarian supplies; refuelling other aircraft and helicopters in the air; serving as a flying hospital for the treatment of wounded personnel – the Airbus A400M is the face and workhorse of the German Air Force,” said Gerd Weber, Head of the A400M programme at Airbus Defence and Space. “The new DIRCM system will provide A400M crews with even greater protection during their missions around the world and expand the already broad range of applications for this exceptional aircraft.” Airbus teams will install the DIRCM protection system from Elbit Systems on a total of 23 aircraft during scheduled maintenance at Airbus in Manching, southern Germany, as well as in Getafe and Seville, Spain. These 23 aircraft are used for tactical operations, including medical evacuation missions in crisis areas. In contrast, the logistical variant of the A400M is deployed for standard operations such as long-range transport of troops, heavy armoured vehicles, helicopters or specialised civil engineering equipment. Airbus is currently putting the DIRCM system through its paces in Seville, Spain, on a German Air Force A400M. Certification is scheduled for summer 2025, with installation in the 23 A400Ms by 2032.
-
Embraer promotes safety initiatives in agricultural aviation and reinforces its presence at the Bahia Farm Show
Embraer (NYSE: ERJ/B3: EMBR3) will exhibit the Ipanema 203, the top-selling cropduster in the Brazilian agricultural aviation market, during the 19th edition of the Bahia Farm Show, taking place between June 9 and 14 in Luís Eduardo Magalhães (BA). With more than 20 years of operation powered by 100% ethanol, the aircraft combines technology with robustness, high productivity with precision, and still maintains low operational costs. "The Bahia Farm Show, one of Brazil's main agricultural fairs, is a great opportunity for us to strengthen the presence of our aircraft in a region known for its diverse types of crops, where producers are looking for the best solutions to achieve maximum productivity at the lowest production cost," says Sany Onofre, Embraer's Agricultural Aviation leader. With more than 180 units sold in the last three years, the aircraft continues to be preferred by rural producers and offers a wide range of equipment aimed at boosting productivity and precision with sustainability. With an efficiency equivalent to four large ground sprayers operating at the same time, the ethanol-powered aircraft sprays more than 200 hectares per hour, delivering a high-quality application without kneading the soil or spreading pests by contact, generating a result for the field of up to 15 bags more per hectare. In addition to participating in the Bahia Farm Show with the Ipanema 203, Embraer has also been promoting operational safety during the events, with an intense agenda of initiatives in the field dealing with topics such as preventive inspections, a safe environment, and good practices for pilots, mechanics and operators. Currently, 100% of agricultural pilot training classes in Brazil include a lecture from the Ipanema customer support team, ensuring that a strong safety culture is instilled from the start of an agricultural pilot's professional life.
Review
-
pureLiFi Unveils Kitefin XE, the Next Generation LiFi System Ready to Secure Communications for Defence and Beyond
-
EAW Adds UXA4807D to Fixed Installation Amplifier Line
-
Gibson and Michael J. Fox Launch Global Search for Missing Guitar from Iconic 80s Film ‘Back To The Future’
-
Masque Sound Collaborates with Dayglo Presents to Deliver World-Class Systems Integration for GARCIA’S CHICAGO
-
Gibson Garage London Acoustic Sessions in June, Monthly Series Features Live Acoustic Performances Inside the Garage
As it continues to celebrate over 130 years of music history, Gibson, the iconic global instrument brand is announcing the Gibson Garage London Acoustic Sessions performance series and upcoming events for June. Music fans are invited to stop in and check out a vast array of young talent performing live at the Gibson Garage London including Merrick Winter and Matt Ginno. All Gibson Garage London Acoustic Sessions performances are live, free, and open to the public from the state-of-the-art stage located on the lower level of the Gibson Garage London. The Gibson Garage London is the ultimate music experience and marks the first Gibson flagship store outside of the U.S. and is located at 61-62 Eastcastle St, London, UK just off Oxford Street. A vibrant addition to the London music community, the Gibson Garage London features a live stage with regular music performances, special events, and album release parties from both emerging and established artists for music fans to enjoy. Every month there are new events and shows for fans inside the Gibson Garage. The Gibson Garage London Acoustic Sessions are a partnership between the Gibson Garage and Busk In London--the London-based busking programme, launched by the Mayor of London and managed by Found in Music--which is the city’s leading programme supporting the music, live performances and careers of buskers. Every month, the Gibson Garage London Acoustic Sessions showcase artists who perform their music on celebrated Gibson acoustics which are all handcrafted by the expert luthiers at Gibson’s acoustic craftory in Bozeman, Montana. The Gibson Garage London flagship store also features a special, dedicated Acoustic guitar room with one of the largest display of storied Gibson Acoustic guitars throughout the entire UK, as well as a special area for Epiphone acoustics including the premium and popular Epiphone Inspired by Gibson Custom guitars. For the latest schedule of events at the Gibson Garage London, follow @GibsonGuitarUK on Instagram.
-
Nugen Producer is a Treasured Collection in Tre Nagella’s Production Toolkit
Four-time GRAMMY® Award-winning Mixer, Producer and Engineer Tre Nagella first got his hands on the NUGEN Producer bundle from NUGEN Audio back in 2019 as part of a giveaway during the GRAMMYs Producers & Engineers Wing 12th Annual Celebration, and he has never looked back. Since then, the brand’s award-winning mix and mastering suite has become one of Nagella’s favorite plug-in bundles. Featuring an unequalled collection of highly flexible, award-winning, cross-platform plug-ins, NUGEN Producer includes the brand’s Paragon ST, Monofilter, Stereoizer, SEQ-ST, Visualizer, Stereoplacer, MasterCheck, ISLst and SigMod solutions. For Nagella, NUGEN Producer increases the quality, control and efficiency of his audio production projects — from traditional music albums to podcasts, audiobooks, television commercials and more. “NUGEN Audio is my hidden gem,” he says. “I’m always looking for something different and the plug-ins included with NUGEN Producer stand out from others when it comes to quality of sound and ease-of-use. It also offers additional features that are hard to find in other solutions.” Nagella says his two most used plug-ins from the bundle are Stereoizer and MasterCheck. “With MasterCheck, I really like how you can listen to what your audio is going to sound like on platforms like Spotify, YouTube or Pandora,” he explains. “On the other hand, Stereoizer is probably my favorite plug-in that NUGEN makes. Sonically, no other similar plug-ins sound as good, and the user interface is much nicer and easier to navigate.” One major record in which Nagella utilized Stereoizer was Aaron Lazar’s “The Impossible Dream,” a Broadway-style album that was recently nominated for a GRAMMY® in the “Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album” category. “The album consisted of a very large live orchestra, including string and horn sections, and more,” he says. “With that comes the challenge of getting all those instruments to sit so that they don’t compete with each other, and you can hear everything clearly. I used Stereoizer to create separation between the orchestral elements.” Nagella also typically deploys NUGEN’s Monofilter. “Similar tools I’ve used in the past often mess with phase alignment, and I tend to be able to hear that; I find that my phase alignment is much less affected with NUGEN, which is why it is one of my go-to’s,” he says. “It’s a great tool for managing my low end, and obviously that’s extremely important in any audio, but especially in the record world. It’s one of the few tools that I’ve worked with that really helps me control the stereo imaging and width of the bottom end.” The producer recently put the full benefits of Monofilter to the test when he was tasked with remixing the FIFA World Cup theme song with a Dallas, Texas twist. “FIFA had the interesting idea to identify a music producer in each of its host cities to remix the theme song, with the goal of putting a spin on the original theme that represents each respective city, and I was selected for Dallas,” says Nagella. “I incorporated country elements, of course, but there’s a big gospel, hip-hop and urban scene here, too, so I wanted to also highlight that. I added 808s and a lot of bottom-end to the track. Monofilter helped separate the elements that occupy that frequency space and created room for everything.” When discussing future projects, Nagella concludes: “NUGEN Audio plug-ins are treasured solutions in my arsenal and I’m positive that will be the case for years to come.” An all-around music production and studio pro, Nagella has logged time with a wide variety of multi-platinum artists, including Lady Gaga, Kirk Franklin, Blake Shelton, Ed Sheeran and Travis Scott, among many others. He has also written, produced and played hundreds of pieces of commercial music for clients such as Apple, Ford Motor Company, Samsung and Dairy Queen. A past Governor/Board Member and Producers & Engineers Chairman for the Texas Chapter of The Recording Academy, Nagella often donates his time and energy to help progress the music industry in his home state, and across the country.
-
Gibson and Michael J. Fox Launch Global Search for Missing Guitar from Iconic 80s Film ‘Back To The Future’
Gibson, the iconic and leading instrument brand, has launched a global search for the world-renowned Cherry Red Gibson ES-345™ guitar that Michael J. Fox played in the 1985 hit film from Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, BACK TO THE FUTURE, which became the biggest film of 1985 in the U.S. and the second highest-grossing worldwide. The stunning guitar was showcased during the beloved film’s unforgettable “Enchantment Under the Sea” school dance scene, a pop culture moment that has inspired many musicians to pick up guitars for the very first time after witnessing the character of Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) play the legendary song “Johnny B. Goode.” During the making of the 1989 sequel to the film, the filmmakers went to look for the guitar, and it was nowhere to be found. Now, music fans worldwide have the chance to help Gibson find the most important guitar in cinema history. Fans who have any tips as to the whereabouts of the missing original Cherry Red Gibson ES-345 guitar that Michael J. Fox played in the film BACK TO THE FUTURE can contact Gibson via www.LostToTheFuture.com or call/text 1-855-345-1955. Watch/share the call-to-action video for the global guitar search featuring Emmy winner Michael J. Fox and his fellow stars of BACK TO THE FUTURE, including Lea Thompson, Emmy® winner Christopher Lloyd, Harry Waters Jr., GRAMMY® winner and Academy® Award nominee Huey Lewis, and more. Released on July 3, 1985, BACK THE FUTURE scored an Academy Award® and three additional nominations and launched a franchise that would go on to earn almost $1 billion globally. Directed by Oscar® winner Robert Zemeckis and written by Zemeckis and Oscar® nominee Bob Gale, BACK THE FUTURE was executive produced by three-time Academy Award® winner Steven Spielberg, eight-time Best Picture nominee Kathleen Kennedy and five-time Best Picture nominee Frank Marshall. The film was produced by Neil Canton and Bob Gale. From the innovative storytelling and characters to the unforgettable guitar performance of the song “Johnny B. Goode,” the film has left an enduring impact on pop culture and remains one of the most beloved and culturally significant films of all time. The film continues to influence and inspire new generations of fans everywhere with its dynamic special effects, beloved characters, and innovative storytelling. The discovery of what happened to the film’s Gibson ES-345 would add a critical chapter to the film’s cinematic history. “Guitar has always been a big part of my life,” says Michael J. Fox. “When we talked about the ‘Enchantment Under The Sea’ scene in Back to the Future, I sat down with the cinematographer and choreographer and said I want to riff through all of my favorite guitarists, like doing Jimi Hendrix behind the head, Pete Townshend doing a windmill, and the Eddie (Van Halen) hammer thing, it was so cool that they were open to that, and we laid it all out there. I’m really happy with the scene because it was an expression of my love for guitar and all the great players. I didn’t realize the influence the scene had on people, John Mayer said, ‘I play guitar because of you,’ and Chris Martin said the same thing, and I am glad they took it further than I did, they went to the trouble of being really good players. I just love the guitar, and I love the movie.” “Years ago, I was astonished to learn this beloved cinematic artifact had apparently disappeared into the space-time continuum,” says Bob Gale, co-creator/screenwriter/producer of BACK TO THE FUTURE. “Since we don’t have a functioning time machine, this effort is probably our best chance to solve a decades-long mystery.” “This is one of the most exciting moments at Gibson for me,” says Cesar Gueikian, President & CEO of Gibson. “Back To The Future is one of the most important and significant movies of my life, and the ‘Enchantment Under the Sea’ school dance scene marked me musically in a profound way. Working with Michael J. Fox, Bob Gale and the rest of the Back To The Future team is a dream come true. I hope we find Marty’s Gibson ES-345! To everyone out there who is as passionate as I am about this iconic film, please help us find it!” “I started searching for this guitar back in 2009 on my first day on the job at Norman’s Rare Guitars,” says Mark Agnesi, Director of Brand Experience at Gibson. “After 16 years of searching, I’m so excited to get the entire guitar community together to help find the guitar that made me, and so many other guitarists of my generation, want to learn to play.” “Watching Michael J. Fox’s iconic performance of ‘Johnny B. Goode’ during the ‘Enchantment Under the Sea’ dance was a moment that struck a chord with an entire generation of kids, inspiring them to pick up a guitar for the very first time,” adds Todd Harapiak, Gibson Media Director. “Few moments in film have had such a lasting impact on musicians as this scene in Back to the Future, and we’re thrilled to embark on a journey to find this guitar that’s carried the legacy of film and rock history for nearly four decades.” “This is the movie that made me want to be a filmmaker, and the scene that made me pick up a guitar for the first time,” says Doc Crotzer, Director of the upcoming documentary film LOST TO THE FUTURE. “As children of the '80s, it is our duty to take fans of music, fans of the movie, and fans of true crime documentaries with us on this too-crazy-to-believe quest to find our generation's Excalibur.” In tandem with the worldwide hunt for the missing Gibson ES-345 and to further celebrate the 40th anniversary of BACK TO THE FUTURE this year, Gibson Films has now started production on a new documentary film titled LOST TO THE FUTURE. The forthcoming documentary LOST TO THE FUTURE from Gibson Films will feature in-depth interviews with BACK TO THE FUTURE cast members Michael J. Fox, Lea Thompson, Christopher Lloyd, and Harry Waters Jr., musician Huey Lewis (“The Power of Love”), and the film’s co-creator/screenwriter/producer Bob Gale, as well as the world-renowned music superstars that have been inspired by the film over the decades. In the quest to find the elusive original Gibson ES-345 guitar, documentary Director Doc Crotzer (Roadhouse, Glee), alongside Mark Agnesi (Director of Brand Experience at Gibson), will guide viewers in the global hunt for this legendary instrument from long-forgotten film prop warehouses, fascinating vintage guitar shops, auction houses, and shadowy back alleys. The LOST TO THE FUTURE documentary will transport viewers back to 1985 to celebrate the music, culture, and defining moments of the era through a rich collection of archival photos, stories, film clips, and iconic songs. LOST TO THE FUTURE is produced by Gibson Films and directed by Doc Crotzer.
-
Masque Sound Collaborates with Dayglo Presents to Deliver World-Class Systems Integration for GARCIA’S CHICAGO
Masque Sound, a leading theatrical sound reinforcement, installation and design company, announces its successful systems integration for Garcia’s Chicago, a new restaurant and live music venue inspired by the enduring legacy of Jerry Garcia. The venue was developed by Dayglo Presents, a live music and media company that has built a reputation for creating unique and meaningful experiences. Dayglo Presents brought in Masque Sound to bring its technical vision to life. Jesse Lauter, Head of Production & Media at Dayglo Presents, spearheaded the collaboration and has worked with Masque Sound on projects for more than a decade. “I have this great relationship with Matt Peskie and the entire team at Masque Sound,” says Lauter. “They are best in class, great to work with and flexible. When Anthony Nittoli joined Masque Sound as Installation Division Manager, it was a match made in heaven. Anthony has always been my go-to for design and concept, so having so much talent under one roof was fantastic. I brought Masque in for Garcia’s Chicago, and it was the perfect match.” While the project presented some challenges, including a pre-determined booth placement and design limitations set years earlier, the team rose to the occasion. “We were locked in on positions and placements that weren’t ideal,” added Lauter. “But, through close collaboration between Meyer Sound and Anthony at Masque Sound, we overcame those obstacles and created one of the best-sounding clubs I’ve ever been in.” Masque Sound’s work included a full systems integration featuring a Meyer Sound loudspeaker system comprised of seven Ultra X-40s, seven Ultra X-20s, two 900-LFC subwoofers, one 750-LFC subwoofer and six MJF-208 stage monitors. “The choice of Meyer Sound was both technical and symbolic,” says Lauter. “Meyer’s history with the Grateful Dead made them a natural fit. We love their vibe, and it just made sense to pair Dayglo, Masque and Meyer. We knew we could create something special together and we did.” This system was anchored by a Yamaha DM7C-EX digital console with Rio 3224-D2 and Rio 1608-D2 stage boxes, which were chosen for their compact footprint and high performance. A range of Shure, Audix and Sennheiser microphones paired with K&M stands supported the venue’s input needs. For video capture, the venue was equipped with five PTZ Optics 4K HD cameras operated via a PTZ Optics controller, allowing seamless content creation and livestream capabilities. “Masque Sound also supported the venue through its opening nights and was great in commissioning the system and staying onsite to ensure seamless operation,” adds Lauter. “There were no issues or complaints. It was a flawless launch.” Lauter also praised the efforts of the legendary Peter Shapiro, Owner of Dayglo Presents, and Kim Kozak, Production Manager, who both played crucial roles in the successful realization of Garcia’s Chicago. “Garcia’s Chicago looks and sounds amazing,” says Nittoli. “It has been a wonderful experience working with such a talented team from various companies on this project. I loved seeing the enthusiasm of the entire crew on opening week and could really sense the excitement of all involved. Garcia’s Chicago now stands as a testament to expert collaboration, musical heritage and technical excellence ushering in a new era of live music in the Windy City.”
-
Gibson Garage Nashville Announces Garage Fest Week
Gibson, the iconic and leading global instrument brand, has today announced Gibson Garage Fest Week - a series of live music and events celebrating the four-year anniversary of the Gibson Garage Nashville -- the ultimate guitar experience and Nashville’s must-see destination for music lovers located at 209 10th Ave. South #209 in downtown Nashville. https://www.gibson.com/en-US/garage-nashville From Wednesday, June 4 – Monday, June 9 the Gibson Garage Nashville will host a number of in-store live music performances and events daily for the public, in addition to superstar surprises, private award shows, Gibson guitar giveaways, a major music education donation ceremony for the nonprofit Free Guitars For Kids, and apparel and merch launches only available at the Gibson Garage store. Over the last four years, the Gibson Garage Nashville has become a vibrant part of the local Nashville music community and a cultural destination in the heart of Music City. An immersive and exciting place to experience live music, the Gibson Garage Nashville live stage features performances and in-store events from music icons and emerging artists. On any given day, music lovers can learn how to play a guitar from visionary teachers, or watch a taping of the award-winning Gibson TV series. The Garage also features exclusive apparel collections with renowned national and local Nashville clothing designers, one-of-a-kind instruments, celebrity and film memorabilia, interactive media stations, along with guitar gear and accessories you cannot find anywhere else in the world. Gibson Garage Fest Week brings together musicians and music lovers and celebrates the massive impact of the Gibson Garage Nashville in the local music scene. Join us at Gibson Garage Fest Week where music fans can attend live shows and events, participate in guitar-playing lessons with renowned experts, enter to win guitars and gear, and interact with the legendary brand Gibson--as well as its philanthropic division Gibson Gives. https://www.gibsonfoundation.org
