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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews

Get it or forget it – James Buddy Rogers, Vandoliers, Sister John, Dominic Silvani, Misery

The weekend is almost here and the snow has finally stopped.  Today is the last day of February and we are ready for spring and the changes that are ahead.  Check out these five artists, which we think will give a kick-start to your weekend enjoyment.

Artist NameJames Buddy Rogers

Album NameEverytime

Label:  JBR Records

Genre:  Blues Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Puddle Jumper; 2.  Come Back to Me; 3.  Everytime; 4.  Can’t get you off of my Mind; 5.  All I Need

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  James Buddy Rogers offers up some thrilling blues guitar  on his latest five-song EP.   He kicks it off with the instrumental tune “Puddle Jumper” before rocking it out with “Come Back to Me.”  This is blues at its core, and you can feel the emotion of the song in both the vocals and the smoking hot guitar.  The greatness continues with the title track.  In fact, all five of these songs are worthy of repeated listens.  This album belongs in your collection alongside the best of Stevie Ray Vaughan and BB King.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, you will love this EP.

Artist NameVandoliers

Album NameForever

Label:  Bloodshot Records

Genre:  Alt-Country

Track Listing:  1.  Miles and Miles; 2.  Troublemaker; 3.  All on Black; 4.  Fallen Again; 5.  Sixteen Years; 6.  Shoshone Rose; 7.  Bottom Dollar Boy; 8.  Cigarettes in the Rain; 9.  Nowhere Fast; 10.  Tumbleweed

Publicist:  Bloodshot Records

Review Forever represents the label debut of the Vandoliers on Bloodshot Records.  They are Texas-based with punk roots who have ventured into the alt-country scene with a sound that is truly unique.  Their first single, “Troublemaker,” which highlights those punk roots, debuted on Rolling Stone Country, while the second one, “Cigarettes in the Rain” debuted on American Songwriter.  They have been called the future of Texas music, and we believe the hype is well deserved.  There is a touch of southern rock in their mix, and we simply love this album, from the first notes of “Miles and Miles” through the final track, “Tumbleweed.”  The fiddle is especially hot, as are the vocals.  This one is definitely going on repeat.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!

Artist NameSister John

Album NameSister John

Label:  Last Night From Glasgow

Genre:  Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Eight Years; 2.  Airport; 3.  Nothing Else; 4.  Waiting for the Sun; 5.  Lost and Won; 6.  The Other Side of Love; 7.  Love me or Not; 8.  I’m the One; 9.  Where she Came From; 10.  Love me or Not (reprise); 11.  Silver Whistle

Publicist:  Rave Child

Review:  Scotland has given us a unique gift with the  arrival of Sister John on the scene.  On their latest self-titled release, they combine elements of folk songs with a driving indie rock beat to deliver a delectable addition to the indie music scene.  The music is smooth with hints of retro 70s rock and killer vocals that will give your ears a musical treat.  The songs are radio friendly, and would add depth to any film or television show they receive placement.  There is not a weak song on the album, and we love it from start to finish.  Our favorite tracks include “Airport,” “Nothing Else,” and the first single, “I’m the One.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one and put it on repeat.

Artist NameDominic Silvani

Album NameThe Impatience of a Sinner

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt-folk

Track Listing:  1.  Roman Road; 2.  Secrets; 3.  Always You; 4.  Focus

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  With a vocal delivery similar to Leonard Cohen, and musical accompaniment of violin and cello, Dominic Silvani shows off his incredible songwriting abilities on this short four-song EP.  It is meant to be a teaser for his upcoming debut album, Anatomy, which will be released later in 2019.  We love these alt-folk songs and will patiently await the full length album.  We think Silvani definitely has something to say and is a welcome addition to the indie music scene.

Recommendation:  Go Get it.

Artist NameMisery

Album NameDown to the Bunker

Label:  Tenacity Music

Genre:  Alt-Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Mother; 2.  Misery; 3.  The Asylum; 4.  Chrysalis; 5.  Ethics; 6.  Waves; 7.  Lost in the Desert; 8.  Machine; 9.  Alive

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  Unlike most metal music, this band actually sings their lyrics, making them fully understandable, which is a good thing because they definitely have a lot to say.  When they scream it is still understandable  They sit atop an impressive drum foundation with the usual screaming guitars, creating a wall of sound that sets them apart from most metal bands.  The songs are definitely hardcore, but they retain the melodic content of indie rock   This is still music for headbangers, but other rock lovers will also enjoy their vibe.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews

Get it or forget it – Alright, Astrophobos, Tender, About-Face, Isolated Youth

Happy hump day from snowed in Missoula!  The snow continues to fall but we have more hot music to share.  Check out these five artists.

Artist Name Alright

Album NameOn the Outs

Label:  Black Numbers

Genre:  Indie Rock/Pop Punk

Track Listing:  1.  On the Outs; 2.  Ghosts; 3.  Someone Else; 4.  Flowers

Publicist:  Part Time PR

Review:  Alright has been burning up the local Charlotte music scene since 2014, and released a tasty morsel of an EP back in December.  We love the energy of these songs, and the retro feel on the title track.  We only wish this one was more than just four songs, because it only teases the listener with the potential for greatness.  We love this band, and hope that that deliver more of this amazing groove soon.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.  It will remind you of what true indie music is like.

Artist NameAstrophobos

Album NameMalice of Antiquity

Label:  Triumvirate Records

Genre:  Black Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Fire of Catharsis; 2.  Begotten in Black; 3.  Descending Shadows; 4.  Abattoir for Flesh and Faith; 5.  The Summoning Call; 6.  The Wolves Between the Stars; 7.  Until the Red of Dawn; 8.  The Nourishing Hate; 9.  Imperator Noctis

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  Lately we have received a lot of great music from Sweden, most of it in the blues genre.  Astrophobos is another band from Sweden, but their sound is definitely not the blues.  They play heavy black metal music that will tear apart the silence and usher in a darkness that is full of energy and power.  Although the vocals are screamo, at least in this case you can actually understand them as they sit perfectly on the foundation of screaming guitars and pounding drums, telling their stories of the dark side.  While this music is not for everyone, it should be very popular for fans of the heavier side of metal.

Recommendation:  If you are a fan of metal, you will love this album.

Artist NameTender

Album NameFear of Falling Asleep

Label:  Partisan Records

Genre:  Electronic/Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Handmade Ego; 2.  Bottled Up; 3.  No Devotion; 4.  Fear of Falling Asleep; 5.  Can’t Show my Face; 6.  When They Come for You; 7.  Slow Love; 8.  Closer Still; 9.  Tainted; 10.  More or Less

Publicist:  Practise Music

Review:  The UK’s Tender released their sophomore album last month, and we love the vibe of this album.  Sprinkled with electronica, it’s full of indie rock goodness and songs that will stay with the listener long after they are done.  This music is screaming for heavy rotation on American college radio stations, and should also receive consideration from music supervisors for music placement opportunities.  Our favorite tracks include “Bottled Up,” “No Devotion,” the title track, “Slow Love,” “Tainted,” and “More or Less.”

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you Get this one!

Artist NameAbout-Face

Album Name:  The Coming of Age

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Waste Your Time; 2.  As Expected; 3.  Sleeping Pill; 4.  Wisdom Teeth; 5.  The Optimist (Reprieve); 6.  Rollcall; 7.  As I am Now; 8.  Shrug; 9.  You Would; 10.  Ticking Time Bomb; 11.  The Optimist

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Omaha, Nebraska is home to About-Face, and we think this band deserves a much wider home.  Their music is pure indie rock, and definitely deserves serious attention from industry executives, including radio station managers and music supervisors.  We don’t think their music is a “Waste of Time,” because, “As Expected,” we believe “You Would” love their sound.  You don’t need to pull your “Wisdom Teeth” or “Shrug” to love this “Ticking Time Bomb” from “The Optimist.”  Their soothing rock sound is better than a “Sleeping Pill” and will definitely be something you can dig “As I am Now.”

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!

Artist NameIsolated Youth

Album NameWarfare

Label:  Fabrika Records

Genre:  Post-punk

Track Listing:  1.  Oath; 2.  Warfare; 3.  Safety; 4.  Gold Lane; 5.  Seasons

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Our second band today from Sweden is neither blues nor metal, but unmistakably post-punk, although the songs are not as short as most punk songs and the energy is more intense and less frenetic.  You can still feel the angst in their vocals and the urgency in their lyrics.  The title track is especially powerful.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – The Reverend Shawn Amos, Kathryn Grimm, Kenny Parker, Beautiful Things, Paul Nelson

We got over a foot of snow in the past 36 hours, with more on the way.  At least we have a break today, but we had to dig ourselves out so we could go to the store this morning.  Good thing we have some hot albums to review to keep us motivated.  Check out these amazing artists.

Artist Name The Reverend Shawn Amos

Album Name Kitchen Table Blues Vol. 1

Label:  Put Together Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Ooh La La; 2.  Hold On; 3.  Whip It; 4.  Have Love Will Travel; 5.  Jesus Gonna be Here

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  The Reverend Shawn Amos has been a pillar of the blues community for many years.  Back in 2016, he began cooking breakfast for his friends and then entertaining them with blues covers of some of his favorite songs.  These sessions were recorded and turned into his Kitchen Table Blues series.  On Vol. 1, he shows his amazing and diverse talents through some interesting song choices, including “Ooh La La,” which has become famous on the Alexa commercials, “Hold On” and “Whip It.”  We love the Roots/Americana vibe he puts on “Ooh La La,” and love the overall sound of the entire EP.  This one belongs on repeat.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go get this amazing EP, which belongs in every collection.

Artist NameKathryn Grimm

Album NameBlues Tools

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Best of Me; 2.  Blues Tools; 3.  C’mon Home; 4.  Empty Space; 5.  God is Testing Me; 6.  Gone; 7.  Hot Date with Buzz; 8.  Lovegun; 9.  Miss Celie’s Blues; 10.  Talking to the Wind; 11.  Trouble of this World; 12.  You Make me so Happy, I Can’t Sing the Blues

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  Kathryn Grimm is an amazing electric blues/rock guitarist who is also a great storyteller and songwriter.  On this blazing hot CD, she tackles such subjects as domestic violence (“The Best of Me”), theft of her van with all of her gear inside (“God is Testing Me”), talking to people who don’t listen (“Talking to the Wind”), the regret of mistreating someone (“C’mon Home”) and vibrators (“Hot Date with Buzz”), which also includes a smoking slide guitar solo by the late Jeff Buckley.  The songs are both serious and light and deserve serious industry attention, reflecting a myriad of musical styles including jazz, blues, gospel and rock.  Put this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!  It will quickly become one of your favorites.

Artist NameKenny Parker

Album NameHellfire

Label:  Rock-a-While Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  I’ve Got my Eye on You; 2.  Baby Come Back to Me; 3.  Blind and Paralyzed; 4.  Bye Bye Baby; 5.  Hellfire; 6.  Goin’ in Circles; 7.  Dance with Me; 8.  I’m Missing You; 9.  But Then we Danced; 10.  Half Crazy; 11.  Back up Plan; 12.  Hard Time in the Land of Plenty

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  The blues world has some distinctive styles, from Chicago to the Delta, and Detroit is no exception.  Kenny Parker brings us the best of Detroit blues rock on his latest collection.  From the rocking guitar and vocals of “I’ve Got my Eye on You,” to the soulful sound of “Baby Come Back to Me,” this album is jammed packed with some of the best blues you have ever heard.  Every song is worthy of attention, and should be on the radar of every successful music supervisor for potential placement opportunities.  These songs likewise belong on blues radio.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist NameBeautiful Things

Album NameDream World (Revisted)

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Dream Pop/Alt-Rock

Track Listing:  1,  Dream World (Sky Mix); 2.  Hey Hey Hey (Electric Mix); 3.  When the Night Comes Down (Bliss Mix); 4.  Astronaut (Space Mix); 5.  Astronaut (Acoustic Mix)

Publicist:  Paula Berg

Review:  On this beautiful reimagining of their debut 2009 album, which was just released yesterday, singer and songwriter Dina D’Alessandro aka Beautiful Things has been joined by former Screams for Tina bass player Grahame “Billy” Budd and keyboardist/guitarist Sean X.  This strange pairing has rerecorded D’Alessandro’s favorite songs from that album, breathing new life into them with a sound that is more electronic and contemporary than the original versions.  The album was engineered and produced by alternative rock legend Michael Rozon (Ministry), resulting in an album that is rich in  context, as the musical accompaniment elevates the vocals and lyrics to a new level.  You can’t go wrong with any of these five amazing tracks.

Recommendation:  This is a must-have for all true music lovers, and we guarantee that you will love these songs on the 100th listen as much as you do on the first one.

Artist Name Paul Nelson

Album Name Over Under Through

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Folk/Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Go Down Ezekiel; 2.  Ghost in the Basement; 3.  Color it Blue; 4.  Secret; 5.  Lay a Little; 6.  Alice Mullin; 7.  I Walk the Line; 8.  Relative Work; 9.  Silent Majority; 10.  Over Under Through; 11.  There is Weeping

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  Paul Nelson hails from New Hampshire and captures that rugged sound with his latest release, infusing his storytelling with the sound of folk, blues and roots music.  He should not be confused with the other Paul Nelson, a multiple Grammy-winning modern blues/rock guitarist, although he has just as much talent as his namesake.  Unlike the other Paul Nelson, this one writes songs that are haunting and moody while carrying on the rich folk tradition of telling compelling and memorable stories.  You will not easily forget his songs or his talent, and we believe you will thoroughly enjoy these folk songs.  We especially love his treatment of the classic Johnny Cash song, “I Walk the Line.”

Recommendation:  If you love great songs in the rich folk/roots tradition, then Get this one for your collection.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Reviews

DR King shares his life in song

While we usually do our album/EP reviews in the Get it or Forget it format, today we have a very special review of an artist who is currently a featured vocalist on tour with Kelly Clarkson.  His latest EP It’s my Life was released last Friday,

DR King, born Donald Ray King, Jr., is an American recording artist and songwriter from Cleveland, Ohio.  He reached the Top 12 on Season 14 of NBC’s The Voice as a member of Team Kelly Clarkson. His powerhouse vocals and wide range made him a quick fan favorite.  His battle round with Jackie Foster made The Voice history when they became the first two contestants to not be eliminated from the competition after a battle round.  They performed Harry Styles’ “Sign of the Times” and both moved on.  The recording of that battle song landed them at #71 on the iTunes overall Singles chart, just one of three songs from the round to crack the Top 100.  It also reached #22 on the iTunes Pop Singles chart, and received enough viewership to chart on YouTube’s Top Trending videos, days after the performance.  King’s later elimination from the Top 12 was described by The Voice as among “the most shocking eliminations in Voice history.”

Following his appearance on The Voice, King signed with Monocentric Music/ONErpm and released his debut single, an incredibly powerful ballad that featured his battle partner Foster.

That single was followed up with “Gravedigger,” which like his debut single, received critical acclaim.  Both of those singles are included on his debut EP, which also includes the songs “Anyway,” “Crying Alone,” “Your Body” and “Do you Love Me.”

King co-penned all of the songs on It’s My Life with two-time Grammy winning songwriter/producer Marc Swersky (Joe Cocker, Ke$ha, Roger Daltry), and veteran songwriter Brielle Brown.  Swersky also produced the EP, which was recorded live at Shorefire Recording Studios in Long Branch, New Jersey.

The resulting songs are almost visceral in their stance on important social issues and command attention.  For example, “Gravedigger” and “Crying Alone” address the Black Lives Matter movement that King felt was relevant and imperative to address.  “I want to empower the people”, says King.  Although these songs are saturated with layers of soul, rock, pop, and funk, his message is simple and shines through – “Love and value your self-worth.  Always believe in yourself, even when no one else will.”

King and his six siblings grew up in humble beginnings in a poor and highly drug infested neighborhood.  King’s father, a city employee and keyboardist, and his mother, a homemaker, worked hard to shelter the family from the streets by immersing them in after- school programs and the church.  King didn’t fully realize their immense struggle until he came of age.

With roots firmly planted in the church, King began singing at the age of three in his choir.  He honed his skills at the Cleveland School of the Arts in the world-renowned R. Nathaniel Dett Choir and later in the Grammy-nominated Central State University Chorus.  He shared the stage with the world-class Cleveland Orchestra, The Dayton Philharmonic, and sang at the Vatican for Pope Benedict XVI.   After graduating from college, King became a high school music teacher in St. John the Baptist Parish in LaPlace, Louisiana before returning to Cleveland to become a first grade teacher at Hope Academies.

Music was the vehicle which allowed King the opportunity to leave Cleveland and travel the world.  He soon relocated to New York City, where he landed background vocalist work with major artists including Eli Paper Boy Reed, Eric Benet, John Ellison, Andy Grammer, Melvin Davis and most recently, 50 Cent.

King was eliminated from The Voice on his coach’s birthday.  He describes the iconic singer as “generous, loving and real.”  The two formed a close camaraderie during the show.  Upon his elimination, Clarkson vowed the two would soon share the stage again.  A few months later, King received the official call to join Clarkson on tour as a featured vocalist.

“Trust your gift,” says King on continuing to create music and share it with the world. “I have to keep fighting and keep on believing. I’m not going to stop.”

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews

Get it or forget it – MSB, Murray A. Lightburn, David Huckfelt, Semaphore, Hot 8 Brass Band

For the second week in a row we were too busy on Friday with the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival to do our New Music Friday reviews, so we are sending them out today.  Thanks for your patience, and to the wonderful folks at The Syndicate for providing four of these gems.

Artist NameMSB

Album NameShort Stories

Label:  CEN/The Orchard

Genre:  AAA/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  1000 Times; 2.  Death to the Uptight; 3.  Slip and Fall; 4.  City Living; 5.  Trouble is Fun; 6.  On Your Own; 7.  Love Right Now; 8.  Sparkling Eyes; 9.  Top of the Hill; 10.  One of You; 11.  Moment to Steal

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review Michael Sackler-Berner aka MSB is a masterful songwriter and storyteller whose lyrics are heartfelt and whose musical composition is majestic and memorable.  Each song is a complete story and provides the basis for the album title.  He mixes multiple genres into his sound, creating a masterpiece in indie music.  From the cinematic sound of “1000 Times” and “Sparkling Eyes” to the funkier “Death to the Uptight” and “Love Right Now,” and from the soulful “Slip and Fall” to the big-band groove of “City Living,” he shows us over and over that he is a true force to be reckoned with.  We love his style and look forward to hearing a great deal more from this amazing artist.  Just put this one on repeat and listen to it from start to finish and over again.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist NameMurray A. Lightburn

Album NameHear me Out

Label:  Dangerbird Records

Genre:  Jazz/Soul/Pop/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Anew; 2.  Centre of my Universe; 3.  To the Top; 4.  I Give Up; 5.  Hear me Out; 6.  Belleville Blues; 7.  Changed my Ways; 8.  Fan Fiction (Ballad of a Genius); 9.  I’m not Broken; 10.  When They See Me

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We introduced you to the amazing sound of Murray A. Lightburn last month in our Ten Great Singles article.  That song, “Belleville Blues” is just the tip of the iceberg of the greatness contained in this album.  There are hints of the soulful 60s, the jazzy greatness of the 70s and a joyful pop sound that is timeless.  He is also the lead singer and principal songwriter of Montreal band The Dears.  The first track, “Anew” is cinematic in its approach, giving us powerful and soulful vocals and a soothing pop/R&B sound that would fit nicely on AAA radio.  That vibe permeates this album, making it one that you will want to hear again and again.

Recommendation:   Run out and Get this one!

Artist NameDavid Huckfelt

Album NameStranger Angels

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  King Whirl; 2.  Still and Still Waiting; 3.  As Below so Above; 4.  Heart Wherever; 5.  Everywind; 6.  The Lost 40; 7.  Starring the Night; 8.  Stranger Angels; 9.  The Field & the Pearl; 10.  You Get Got; 11.  False True Lover Blues; 12.  Star Nation

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  David Huckfelt is the lead singer of critically acclaimed band The Pines, and wrote his debut solo album in the solitude of Isle Royale while spending time in that isolated area as an Artist in Residence.   The resulting album is hauntingly folk and almost transcendental in nature, capturing the isolation and mysterious vibes of one of our country’s most unique national parks.  The album also features some of his peers, including Amelia Meath from Slyvan Esso and Dave Simonet from Trampled by Turtles.  His solo album just continues his mastery of this genre and will give you delicious food for thought.

Recommendation:  This one is a must-have for all lovers of Americana music.  Go Get it!

Artist NameSemaphore

Album NameLeave with the Season

Label:  Si Doux Productions

Genre:  Post-Shoegaze/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Unreliable; 2.  Convergence; 3.  Pie; 4.  Leave with the Season; 5.  Didn’t you Dream; 6.  Unreliable (acoustic bonus track)

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Semaphore is a Brooklyn-based band that blends elements of post-shoegaze, pop punk, post-hardcore, electronica, jazz and metal to create a truly unique sound.  Featuring jazz saxophonist Siddhu Anandalingam, drummer Emmett Ceglia, guitarist Jay Kohler and bassist Niko Hasapopoulous, the band is an eclectic range of superior musicians who are not afraid to bring it all, and who together create an amazingly lush soundscape of music that will stay with the listener.

Recommendation:   Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name Hot 8 Brass Band

Album NameTake Cover

Label:  Tru Thoughts

Genre:  Hip-Hop/Street Brass

Track Listing:  1.  Love Will Tear us Apart; 2.  Shake Your Booty (Down to the Ground); 3.  Remember the Time; 4.  Give me the Night; 5.  Baby be Mine

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Hot 8 Brass Band is one of the hottest acts in New Orleans, mixing an old school brass band approach with harder edge hip-hop treatments of some of your favorite songs, breathing new life into the songs of artists like The Jackson 5, Michael Jackson, George Benson and more.  They are jam-packed with energy and it shows in the sound they deliver.   We especially love their version of “Shake Your Booty,” as well as “Remember the Time,” which would be the perfect song for a Second Line Parade.

Recommendation:  This one will quickly become your jam.  Get it and play it on repeat!

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Awards Big Sky Documentary Film Festival indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2019: vol 8

The 16th annual Big Sky Documentary Film Festival has come to an end, and judging from the crowds that continued to come to the films on closing day, it was a very successful run.  Over the past week we were able to view two more films, as well as working in the box office nearly every day.  We made a lot of new friends, had fun at the daily parties, and are now looking forward to slowing down the pace.

On Wednesday we had the privilege of witnessing Fire on the Hill:  The Cowboys of South Central LA, a truly inspiring film from director Brett Fallentine.  The film, which started out as an investigative piece to discover who burned down The Hill stables in South Central LA, shifted to become a compelling profile of several of those black cowboys who ride their horses through the streets of South Central LA and Compton.  The goal of their group is to teach the skills and values of horsemanship, as well as give inner city kids an alternative to a life in the gangs and on the streets.  Definitely check out their website for ways you can contribute to meet that goal.

The director, along with four of the subjects from the film – Ghuan Featherstone, Calvin, Will and PRCA professional bull rider Chris Bird, arrived just as the film credits rolled and gave us an amazing Q&A.    The film screened again to another packed house on Saturday, and the Q&A for that one was truly off the hook.  Ghuan, who is also an amazing singer-songwriter who contributed songs to the movie, sang a stirring a capella version of one of his songs, resulting in a standing ovation.  We also enjoyed having the time to get to know Ghuan and Brett during the week, and look forward to taking a ride with Ghuan when we are in LA this summer.

The second film we watched was Desolation Center, a film about the punk rock movement in LA in the early 80s.  What made this film so unique was that Stuart Swezy, the creator of Desolation Center, was not just the subject of the film, but also directed and produced it.  The film began with the infamous riot at The Ramones concert at the Hollywood Palladium led by former police chief Darryl Gates, who was forced to resign after the 1992 riots.  Realizing that it was not safe to organize large punk rock events in the city of Los Angeles, Swezy created several site specific concerts in the Mojave Desert and on a boat in San Pedro harbor that featured some of the biggest acts of that time, including local band The Minutemen, The Meat Puppets, Sonic Youth and more.  These shows spawned other alternative festivals, including Burning Man and Coachella, and left a legacy that will never be forgotten.  The film brilliantly captured this tumultuous time and shone a light on both the music and the people who attended these concerts.

We had intended to view ..So Good I Can’t Take it, but the screening was sold out and we had to turn away people.  Director Kirk Leclaire has promised to send us a link to screen the film, and we will write our review thereafter.

On Friday night, the winners of Big Sky’s four competitions were announced.  In addition to the four winners, the juries honored one film in each category with Artistic Vision awards.  Winners of the mini-doc and shorts categories are eligible for consideration for an Academy award.  One of the shorts shown at this year’s Festival, Lifeboat, was a nominee at this year’s awards which were held last night.

BEST FEATURE
Winner – PARIAH DOG – Jesse Alk
Artistic Vision – DARK EDEN – Jasmin Herold & Michael Beamish
BIG SKY AWARD
Winner – THE BLESSING – Hunter Robert Baker & Jordan Fein
Artistic Vision – FIRE ON THE HILL: COWBOYS OF SOUTH CENTRAL L.A. – Brett Fallantine
BEST SHORT
Winner – ST. LOUIS SUPERMAN – Smriti Mundhra and Sami Kahn
Artistic Vision – EL DESIERTO – Carly Jakins and Jared Jakins
BEST MINI-DOC
Winner – SCENES FROM A DRY CITY – Francois Verster & Simon Wood

Artistic Vision – LOTUS – Mohammadreza Vatandoust

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from the Insomniac Bears.  We love the retro sound of their song “Passing Trains,” which we think could be a hit on college radio.  Check it out.

Our next single is a feisty dance track from Nikki’s Wives.  This one is guaranteed to get you up and dancing as you enjoy the groove of “Lemonade.”

Our third single today comes from LA Music Critic Award winning electronica duo Lovers & Poets.  We continue to be amazed at the growth of this band, and think you will love “Nevergonnastop.”

https://loversandpoets.bandcamp.com/track/nevergonnastop

Next up is the latest from Blue Élan Records artists Red Wanting Blue, who have joined up with Liz Brasher for their latest single, “I’ve Got a Feeling It Hurts.”  This one is an amazing collaboration and we think it belongs on radio stations everywhere.

Our final single this week is from Australian artist Philip la Rosa, an amazing R&B/pop artist with a dynamic flair for the incredible.  Here is his song “Fable,” which we think is simply one of the best singles we have heard this year.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from LA Music Critic Award winner Keaton Simons, and was inspired by the book and film A Chance in the World.  We love this inspiring song and video, and are so proud of the growth of this artist.  Check out “Find Us.”

Next up we have the last segment of three live videos featured the driving blues sound of The Spear Shakers.  We think “Leaving it all Behind” is the perfect song for the culmination of this project.

Our third video is from European rockers Ivan & the Parazol.  They have created a rocking lyric video for their song “When I was 17.”  Rock on!

Nashville’s premier punk band and LA Music Critic Award winners Taco Mouth have created a powerful video for their protest song “The White House.”  This one captures the energy and the powerful lyrics, so be prepared to be rocked out.

We close out this week’s Monday Mashup with the latest from glam rocker Jess Weimer.  It is a visually stimulating video for her insightful song “Glass Tower.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Burn the Treaty, Satellites, California Hearse, TOZ Antonio Piretti, Magela Herrera

Welcome back to our hump day edition of Get it or Forget it.  It’s gonna be a very busy Wednesday, as the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival is still going strong and Shooter Jennings comes to town for a concert at The Top Hat.  We will be attending the screening of Fire on the Hill:  Cowboys of the South this afternoon and then hanging with our LA musician friend Ted Russell Kamp, the bassist for Shooter Jennings, before attending the concert tonight.  Let’s get this day started with five reviews.

Artist NameBurn the Treaty

Album NameSticks and Stones

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Murky Moon Sky; 2.  Volcano; 3.  Grateful; 4.  Sticks and Stones; 5.  Fool’s Gold

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Burn the Treaty is a Nashville-based duo consisting of Morgan Bracy and her husband.  We met Bracy a few years ago at the Durango Songwriters Expo, and were impressed by her sound, which has exploded on their debut EP.  This is music that can easily compete in today’s Americana-loving market, and this band deserves major attention from  the industry, both radio and music supervisors.  These songs would be a huge hit on the radio, especially “Volcano,” “Murky Moon Sky,” and the title track, and are ripe for placement opportunities in television and film.  You don’t want to miss the opportunity to catch band that is destined to rise to the top.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one now!

Artist NameSatellites

Album Name  Love and Disaster

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Love & Disaster; 2.  Breathless (ft Martha Wainwright); 3.  Sucker; 4.  Take Me; 5.  We got Lost (ft Paul Cargnello); 6.  Only Two; 7.  The Butcher; 8.  Just a Trace; 9.  Back for More; 10.  Love Sweet Love

Publicist:  Self-promoted

ReviewJasmine Bleile aka Satellites is a funky and soulful pop artist from Montreal.  She has a carefree sound that is soothing and playful, yet full of hope and joy.  Every song began as a poem that was then set to music.  The title track kicks off the album, and it only gets better from there.  The music has a wonderful retro feel to the feel good music of the 70s, and deserves heavy rotation on American radio.  Bleile’s vocals are legendary and she proves that she was born to sing this funky material.  We really love the beautiful duet with Paul Cargnello on “We Get Lost.”

Recommendation:  Don’t think about it, just Get it!

Artist NameCalifornia Hearse

Album NameCalifornia Hearse

Label:  1078380 Records

Genre:  Pop Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Welcome Home; 2.  Used to Be; 3.  Best Worst; 4.  Dissection; 5.  Half to Death; 6.  No Seoul

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  California Hearse is otherwise known as the rhythm section of the band Gentlemen Prefer Blood, who sing about such diverse topics as depression, death and surfing.  We love these short ditties that make the lyrics come to life and get the listener moving to the beat.  We love the energy contained in these tracks, and would love to catch the band performing live.  We strongly encourage college radio programmers and intelligent music supervisors to give this band serious consideration.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth your attention – go Get it!

Artist NameTOZ Antonio Piretti

Album Name#STRONGER

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Heroes; 2.  Another Place for Us; 3.  Together; 4.  You Have Been the One; 5.  We all are One; 6.  E Tutto in Un Si; 7.  Quella Scheda Era La . . .

Publicist:  Press Town PR

Review:  This Italian born and Canada-based artist is a gifted vocalist with a powerful sound that is not only pop but also cinematic in its scope.  It would be an amazing addition to any music supervisor’s library and could easily be placed in a myriad of television, film or commercial application.  It is also the perfect music to experience life, as it draws the listener in and blows them away.  From the first note of “Heroes,” it becomes quickly crystal clear that this artist has something to say, and the creativeness to make it something the listener wants to hear.  This one is definitely going on repeat.  We also love the bi-lingual songs and look forward to learning more about this truly original artist.

Recommendation:  Be an intelligent music consumer and add this magnificent album to your collection.  Get it today!

Artist NameMagela Herrera

Album NameExplicaciones

Label:  Brontosaurus Records

Genre:  Latin Jazz

Track Listing:  1,  Two Sidewalks; 2.  Que te Pedi; 3.  Principios; 4.  Explicaciones; 5.  Ahora; 6.  Besame Mucho; 7.  Danson Para Papa; 8.  My One and Only Love

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Magela Herrera is an incredible Cuban-born vocalist, flautist and composer who blends her Latin heritage into incredible works of jazz. On her debut album, she mixes her original tunes with Latin standards to bring this amazing music to the world.  She was formerly a member of Mezcla, one of Cuba’s best jazz and fusion bands.  These songs will take away your worries and cares and are best heard with a glass of wine and the time to unwind.  Sit back and enjoy the awesomeness that is Herrera.

Recommendation:  You simply must have this one in your jazz collection.  Go Get it now!

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Tiffany Pollack and Eric Johanson, NIIGHTS, Harlem, MINKA, Lisa Papineau

Welcome to our belated New Music Friday edition of Get it or Forget it.  Due to our hectic schedule with the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, we were unable to review these brand new releases last Friday, so we are doing them today.  Thanks for your patience during one of our busiest times.  Enjoy these five new releases.

Artist NameTiffany Pollack and Eric Johanson

Album NameBlues in my Blood

Label:  Nola Blue Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Blues in my Blood; 2.  Memories to Forget; 3.  Keep it Simple; 4.  Michael; 5.  Diamonds on the Crown; 6.  No Expectations; 7.  Do I Move You?; 8.  Slave of Tomorrow; 9.  Get Lost With Me; 10.  River; 11.  If I Had a Hammer

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Vocal duos are all the rage in other genres, but relatively rare for blues lovers.  Thankfully, New Orleans jazz sweetheart Tiffany Pollack and former guitarist for Cyril Neville Eric Johanson have teamed up to show the world that great blues songs can be done by two harmonious voices.    Amazingly recorded and produced by multi-award winner Jack Miele at The Music Shed Studios, Blues in my Blood is one of the best blues albums of 2019.  come out of blues music.  This duo brings an indie roots-based depth to their blues, and could easily become a force to reckon with in that genre.  Pollack also channels her inner Nina Simone on her gut-wrenching cover of “Do I Move You?”  She is joined by Johanson for a thrilling cover of the classic Pete Seeger freedom anthem, “If I Had a Hammer,” sending this album off to a perfect conclusion.

Recommendation:  Run and Get this one!

Artist NameNIIGHTS

Album Name Hellebores Part Two

Label:  Tragic Hero Records

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  It Was; 2.  Hellebores; 3.  With Bated Breath; 4.  Segue; 5.  Sylvia; 6.  Caterpillar

Publicist:  Tragic hero Music Group

Review:  We brought you Part One of this two part release last month, and are happy to complete our review with Part Two.  Both parts are now available on a single album, available on BandCamp.  Part Two picks up the powerful strand created in Part One with “It Was,” a song that begs for heavy rotation on the radio.  The title track is heavier and darker than the rest, with an almost metal feel, and that vibe continues on “With Bated Breath” and “Sylvia,” before closing out the album on a more upbeat and beautiful vibe with “Caterpillar.”  All in all, this one is a keeper.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name Harlem

Album NameOh Boy

Label:  Female Fantasy Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1,  All Men are Dogs; 2.  Smoke in Mirrors; 3.  Dreams is Destiny M; 4.  Swervin; 5.  Lana; 6.  Click Your Heels; 7.  Elegant and Sophisticated; 8.  Blonde on Blonde; 9.  Cry Now Cry Later; 10.  Oh Boy; 11.  Me and the Boys; 12.  Queen of Mosquitos

Publicist:  Wolfievibes Publicity

Review:  It only took them nine years, but Harlem is back with their latest release, Oh Boy.  They have a mellow almost acoustic sound like Snow Patrol and Plain White Ts, and should be a big hit on the college radio circuit.  They have obviously been influenced by the sound of The Beatles and Simon and Garfunkel, because you can feel it in their vibe.  They have released three of the songs as singles so far (“Swervin,” “Cry Now Cry Later,” and “Queen of Mosquitos”) and we think there is plenty of material remaining for several more.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth adding to your collection.

Artist NameMINKA

Album NameEnd of the Affair

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Introduction; 2.  Sugar & Cream; 3.  Sentimental Girl; 4.  Secret Lover; 5.  That Look; 6.  All I Ever Had

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We last heard from MINKA back in April 2017 when when reviewed their album Born in the Viper Room.  This time around, MINKA is a solo act, returning to a more 80’s sound similar to his idols Prince, Hall & Oates, Todd Rundgren and The Stylistics.  The first track sets the mood for the music to follow, and the gloves come off with “Sugar & Cream.”  The soothing R&B sound continues with “Sentimental Girl,” while “Secret Lover” and “That Look” are more upbeat but no less danceable.  The final track returns to the smooth R&B sound, and leaves us with a feeling that we haven’t heard the last from this amazing artist.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name Lisa Papineau

Album NameOh Dead on oh Love

Label:  Team Player

Genre:  Alt pop/rock

Track Listing:  1.  Beautiful; 2.  Little Hell; 3.  Oh Dead on oh Love; 4.  Hey Lord Take me Over; 5.  Endless Story; 6.  Seasons with Marilu; 7,  The Last City; 8.  Waystation; 9.  Bent to Bow Down; 10.  Been a Long Time; 11.  Endless Story Cumbia Olindense (bonus track)

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  It is difficult to place the music of Lisa Papineau into a specific genre, although it reminds us of Dido.  It has smooth and majestic instrumentation, soaring vocals and the ambiance and vibe of great meditative music.  The lyrics are a combination of English and her native French, and are as smoothing as a good glass of wine at helping you relax and chill.  This one will be best enjoyed after a long day when you need some down time, and we recommend you listen to it from start to finish.

Recommendation:  This album makes a great addition to your chill collection.  Grab a glass of wine, put it on, and relax.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Reviews Women in Entertainment

In a time of darkness, Sonja Midtune encourages you to be ‘My Light’

Sonja Midtune is that rare, ultra-intuitive singer/songwriter and storyteller who can take the deeply intimate emotions of a close friend and translate them into a timeless universal love song.  What started as a commission for a friend turned into so much more.  A friend asked Midtune to write a song that she could give to her husband for Christmas.  Midtune accepted the challenge, wrote and recorded the song, and even sang it to the couple as they slow danced to the music.

Born and raised in Minnetonka (only 15 minutes from Prince’s digs in Paisley Park), she grew up harmonizing to Queen songs in her car seat at age 2 before becoming involved in musical theatre.   She toured Japan as a member of the cast of the Dr. Seuss musical The 500 Hats of Bartholomew Cubbins at the age of eight.  Midtune began writing songs in in high school.  When she wasn’t involved in a musical, she spent her time portraying Robert Plant as the lead singer in a Led Zeppelin tribute band.  She earned her degree in Music Theory and Composition at St. Olaf College as the only candidate to specialize in voice.  She went on to complete the program at the European American Music Alliance (EAMA), a Paris based, Julliard affiliated educational program.

“With ‘The Light’, I’m really excited to finally have found a sound that perfectly represents me and showcases my voice,” explains Midtune.  “It truly encapsulates the solo music I have been working on for the past five years . . . there’s definitely more to me as an artist, so as I release more singles this year in that style, I will also be working on a whole new sound that reflects the ‘band’ side of me . . . No matter what style I’m writing in, for me, everything comes down to live performing.  I love nothing more than a loud mic and an acoustic space where I can get carried away with the lyrics.”

“My Light” was co-produced by Midtune and engineer Mike Lizzaraga at Ground Up Studios.  The single was just released last Friday and is the first of several new singles she plans to roll out in 2019.

The song was recorded in one take with vocals and guitar, after which Midtune, with the assistance of Lizzaraga and engineer Kai Nakamura, added drums, guitar and cello (beautifully played by Jean Paul Barjon) around the core track.  This process allowed Midtune to capture in the studio the exact vibe she had created when she performed it live.

The song is about a real, everlasting kind of love with someone who is the fuel to his or her partner’s flame.   Midtune personalized it to her own life with a whimsical video featuring raw home movie footage of her walking along a deserted beach – the moments presumably being captured by a romantic interest of her own.

The cinematography in the video is simply beautiful.  It shows the full emotional impact of the song, creating a romantic masterpiece.  Even if you don’t currently have that special person in your life, you can relate to the emotion of loving somebody, and feel that joy again and again with each viewing.

Midtune has collaborated extensively with  Brittney Bouchard, and the songwriting team has either won or placed high in numerous songwriting competitions.   She has also had success with placements in film, including last year’s documentary The Way North, which follows Midtune and her family as they traveled to Norway to uncover their heritage and their grandfather’s past.

“’My Light’ is different from any other song I have ever written,” says Midtune.  “My friend is a literary genius, a philosophy major, and wrote me an essay about her love for her husband.  I absorbed her words and let them be my inspiration.  What I love most about the song is that there are words that I would never have used, like ‘more than enough’, because I have a different vocabulary than her.  They are also more spiritual than I am, and my lyrics reflect that.  The tricky part was making sure the song also completely resonated with me, and that it was ‘catchy’ and grooved enough that I would want to sing it to an audience.”

“On a deeper level, I think it perfectly reflects who I am as a songwriter,” she says.  “I was able to make this beautiful song out of someone’s story and make it my own.  I thought the task might me daunting, but it ended up being a blast from start to finish. I will be teaching songwriting at Cal Poly Pomona University starting this fall semester and I’m excited to share ‘My Light’ as an example of what you can do with someone else’s story.”

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Big Sky Documentary Film Festival indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 7

Happy President’s Day!  It was a very busy weekend with the opening of the 16th Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.   We volunteered four box office shifts at the Wilma and MCT, attended the parties on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and still managed to squeeze in a block of four documentary shorts and two features.  One of the shorts, After the Fire, won last year’s Pitch Day competition, and we can’t wait to see what gets pitched this year on Thursday.

At Friday night’s party at the Elks Lodge, we met director James Martin and his wife Jen West, as well as cinematographer Bud Simpson and Eva.  They were involved in the short film Being with Elephants which screened Saturday afternoon and will screen again on Thursday at 4 p.m. at MCT.  They were amazing company and we managed to run into each other several times over the weekend.  We only wish we could see their film, but our schedule doesn’t permit that,

At Saturday night’s party at the Missoula Art Museum, we met Jonathan Sutak, the director of Dons of Disco.  Before the Mili Vanilli lip-syncing scandal, there was Den Harrow, an Italo Disco artist who sold 20 million records without singing a word.  This brilliant movie told the story of the plan by American singer-songwriter Tom Hooker and Italian producer Miki Chieregato to have a male model become the face of their music.  It was a compelling story about the music industry and left us wanting to know even more about this fascinating tale, and  the dispute that developed between Hooker and Harrow.  We highly recommend this film.

Last night we attended Industrial Accident:  The Story of Wax Trax! Records.  This was the story of a small record store in Chicago that accidentally created a whole new genre of music and launched the careers of acts such as Ministry, Front 242, REVCO, My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult and inspired others like Nine Inch Nails.  It was a remarkable story directed by Julia Nash, the daughter of Jim Nash, who together with his partner Dannie Flesher, created this alternate reality for people whose musical tastes were far from the mainstream.  We also highly recommend this film.

Today we are volunteering at the box office at the Elks Lodge before heading off to work, followed by tonight’s party at the Dana Gallery.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from our dear PR friend, Doug Deutsch Publicity Services.  It is the latest from LA Music Critic Award winner for best EDM/Dance artist/band TNEO, and we really dig the groove of “Circles Around You.”  This one will definitely get you up and dancing on this Monday morning.

Next up is the latest from the amazing Alyssa Jacey.  She has recently married the love of her life, Jutt Huffman, and the resulting new music is full of hope and love.  Check out “Our Love” and share  it with those you care for.

Our third single comes from the band Crystal Tides, and is an upbeat alt pop song called “Backbiting.”  We love their groove and think this song has some serious legs.  Check it out.

Next up is the latest from Grammy-winning artist Aqualung.  “Complicated” is the second single from his new album Additional Futures.  We think it’s one of his best ever and can’ wait to review the entire album soon.

Our final single this week is a rare treat.  This one is a country tune from William Shatner (yes, Captain Kirk) and Jeff Cook of the incredible country band Alabama, which also features country legend Neal McCoy and acapella group Home Free).  We are shocked at how good it is.  Here’s “Why Not Me.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video has the incredible guitarist/vocalist Jess McAvoy serenading the streets and subways of New York City with her truly inspirational song, “Do What you Want.”  We love it.

Next up is the latest from The Stoneface, an amazing band out of Belarus.  We love the rocking sound of “That Summer” and think you will too.

Video number three comes from Swedish alt pop artist Augustine.  We love the sound of his latest, “Luzon,” and think he has a great career ahead.  His sound is perfect for American radio, and the cinematography in the video is outstanding.  Check it out and see.

Our next video is from New Orleans-based Berlin Taxi and has a definite 80s new wave vibe.  We love “Last Night” and think you will too.

Our final music video today is “Shacked up Sweetie,” a rousing country tune from Canadian Francine Honey.  This one will get your boots on the dance floor.  Enjoy!