After unknowingly wearing one of the rings designed by Darren Simonian for years, KK was contacted on Facebook by the designer, known as Sonny D, who was excited to reconnect with KK (having known him from his years as a working musician himself.)

The outcome of that meeting is a new endorsement for KK through the generosity of Darren Simonian and Jewelry by Isis

Rip Cat Records announces the signing of two iconic Southern California-based music artists,

The Blasters     

and

K.K. Martin

     The Blasters formed in Downey, California back in 1979 and, along with X, Black Flag, Red Hot Chili Peppers and others, have been an integral part of the SoCal underground/indie-rock scene since their formation. Led by brothers Phil and Dave Alvin, the group originally signed to much-loved indie label Slash Records in 1981 and were known as much for their grueling touring schedule as their unique country-punk sound. Among the noted musicians that have performed as members of the Blasters through the years: the dynamic saxophone duo of Steve Berlin and Lee Allen; bassist John Bazz; the late Hollywood Fats (a/k/a Michael Mann) and X's Billy Zoom, Greg "Smoky" Hormel, James Intveld, and current guitarist, Keith Wyatt; and drummers Billy Bateman, David Carrol and current member, Jerry Angel. The Blasters were featured in the popular 1984 film Streets Of Fire and placed two songs in the sound track, "One Bad Stud" and "Blue Shadows." The Blasters are currently in the studio recording a new album for Rip Cat.

     K.K. Martin was a founding member, lead guitarist, singer and songwriter for 80's-era band A La Carte. The group gained considerable renown as one of the most in-demand groups on the then-vibrant Sunset Strip music scene. Exposed in the womb to the music of Jimmie Rodgers. Robert Johnson and Hank Williams, he began touring with his parents at age 10. K.K. was transplanted to California in 1969 and cut his teeth on the local L.A. rock scene at age 16, landing a brief stint with the Albert Collins backup band. Martin has performed with a Who's-Who in the music business including Eric Burdon, Booker T, Rick Derringer, Johnny Winters, Blondie, and currently, Lester Chambers of famed R&B/Soul group The Chambers Brothers. K.K. was a recipient of "Outstanding Blues Artist" at the 9th Annual Los Angeles Music Awards in 1999. In the last decade, Louisiana native Martin has reconnected with his Blues roots. He toured with Lester Chambers of the 60's Chambers Brothers fame, recording a project with Lester called "Blues for Sale." Martin has continued to play extensively throughout L.A. and Orange County as a solo act as well as with the band Roadside Revelers. His latest CD is "Naked Blues Vol. II," which will be re-released by Rip Cat. 

     Orange County-based Rip Cat Records is one of the quickest-growing independent labels in Southern California, with a solid artist roster that includes guitarist Barry Levenson; The 44's, vocalist Lisa Cee; Johnny Mastro and Mamma's Boys; Whiteboy James & The Blues Express; John Marx; Little Barry G; The Mighty Mojo Prophets; and Gino Mateo.

      www.ripcatrecords.com