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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 6

OMG – that was the best Grammys Show we have ever witnessed.  Everything that was lacking in last week’s Super Bowl was present – superstar performances, inspiring speeches and incredible music throughout.  Alicia Keys was the perfect host and her “Songs I Wish I’d Written” segment brought us to tears.  It was also about time that the talents of Women in Entertainment were clearly on display, showing the world what we already know.  We’ve got some news for you today that is the perfect segue to that, as well as five new singles and music videos for your consideration.  Here we go!

INDIE ARTISTS SHINE AT 61ST GRAMMY AWARDS SHOW

Congratulations to indie band Opium Moon on their Grammy win last night for Best New Age Album.  Huge props to amazing violinist Lili Haydn and her equally amazing band for this honor.

Congratulations also to two artists we had the privilege of reviewing here on our blog.  Composer and music educator John Daversa took home three Grammys for his amazing jazz album American Dreamers that featured DACA kids and spotlighted their cause.  Blues legend Buddy Guy won for Best Traditional Blues Album for The Blues is Alive and Well.

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE TO HONOR WOMEN IN ENTERTAINMENT

The Third Annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase is set for Tuesday, June 18, 2019 at The Mint LA.  This year’s Showcase will honor the role of Women in Entertainment, and will feature a stellar line-up that includes Fanny Walked the Earth (the first all-girl group to release an album on a major label); multiple-award winning rock band The Spider Accomplice, led by VK Lynne; Rebelle Road artist The HawtThorns, led by label co-founder KP Hawthorn (former member of award-winning group CALICO the Band); blues phenom Brigitte Rios Purdy; Americana sweetheart Amilia K. Spicer; and two of our International winners, blues band Reloaded Norway and Latin singer Constanza Herrero.  We expect to announce a couple more artists in the coming weeks.  Tickets are now on sale for just $10 in advance or $13 day of show, and a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  We hope to see you there.

BIG SKY DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL SET FOR FEBRUARY 15-24, WITH OPENING NIGHT FILM AT THE WILMA

This year the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival will celebrate its 16th opening night on Saturday, February 16 with a free screening of a film that celebrates winter culture and the pioneer who helped bring it to the big screen.

Directed by Patrick Creadon, SKI BUM: THE WARREN MILLER STORY chronicles the life and times of the legendary filmmaker who, through his annual ski films and national tours which began in the early 1950’s, was a driving force in the development and promotion of the ski industry in America and throughout the world.

The screening will begin at 6:00 p.m. at The Wilma (131 S. Higgins) with a Q&A with filmmakers and cast following the screening.  We advise you to show up early to make sure you get a seat.  This year’s free opening night is made possible by Bob Ward’s Sports and Outdoors.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Australian folk singer Short Shadows.  We love his vibe and the sentiments contained in “Nothing Good Comes from Preston.”  Check out those horns.

Our second single is a sweet pop song from David Alexander called “Falling.”  We love the strings and the heavenly vocals and think you’ll want to hear more from this young man.

https://soundcloud.com/david-alexander-300103527/falling/s-CJZ6d

Next up is the rocking sound of Signs & Symbols, who share their latest single “Coffee for Friends.”  This one will get your week off to a rocking start.

Our fourth single is from pop artist Kat Holland.  We really think she’s “The One,” and think you will want to add this artist to your favorites.

Our final single this week comes from UK band Woman’s Hour and is very powerful both sonically and lyrically.  Check out “Luke.”  We think you’ll be searching for more of their material.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Los Angeles street performer Katie Ferrera.  It is a powerful and beautifully shot video that shows what it’s like to busk, as well as the raw talent of this amazing artist.  Here’s “Weightless.”

Next up is “People Get Ready,” the gritty tune from another UK artist, Emma Bosworth.  The song talks about mental health issues and presents them in terms we can all understand.  Please give this artist your attention.

Our third video is a blues smoker from The Spear Shakers, who we introduced to you last month in our Ten Amazing Videos from December article.  Here is their latest, “I Went Down Easy.”

Next up is an amazing live performance of the power ballad “There has to be More” from Eliza Spear.  The song talks about transitioning to Los Angeles from North Carolina, and offers hope that there is more than just what you can see.  We think you should take her advice to heart.

Our final video this week will definitely give you something to think about, as it is all about global warming and resultant changes.  Check out this powerful and thought-provoking video from KLOGR for their song “Somethings in the Air.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – YODOK III, iridea, Jason Robert, Bettman and Halpin, Y La Bamba

Happy New Music Friday!  Two of today’s releases dropped last Friday, one this past Tuesday and two today.  We think this is a very diverse and eclectic blend and hope you enjoy and check out these amazing artists.

Artist NameYODOK III

Album NameThis Earth we Walk Upon

Label:  Consouling Sounds

Genre:  Avant Garde Rock

Track Listing:  1,  This Earth we Walk Upon

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  This is a one-song live album that lasts for 63 minutes.  During that time, you will hear a myriad of musical styles, including jazz, post(rock) and classical, among others.  You can feel the adrenaline that runs through the piece, much like listening to a highly emotional classical suite.  All together, this magical tapestry takes your ears to places they’ve never been before, and keeps your senses enthralled with the changing aural landscape.  Make sure you have plenty of time to grasp all the nuances of this music.  This one make take several listens to grasp its totality.

Recommendation:  If you love classical and rock music, you can now enjoy them in a combined format.  Sit back and enjoy the ride.

Artist Name iridea

Album Nameagitationist

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Centaurus; 2.  Flint Slope; 3.  Geometry; 4.  Juxtapose; 5.  Release

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  iridea is an Australian band composed of brothers Matthew and Daniel Headland.  They take their metal serious, and build these five songs as if they were prog rock.  The music is intense and the screamo is mixed with spoken word to form an eerie and profound statement.  Their sound is not for the faint of heart, as it will pound your head and electrify your ears.

Recommendation:  If you love metal music, this is the album for you.

Artist NameJason Robert

Album NameThe Death of Stone Stanley

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  All I Need; 2.  Good Vibes; 3.  Hereafter; 4.  John the Revelator; 5.  Moonshiner; 6.  Mr. Bell; 7.  Never Gonna Die; 8.  Sat Around; 9.  Soul of a Man; 10.  Woke up This Morning; 11.  You Gotta Move

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  Jason Robert was formerly the driving force behind Stone Stanley.  On his debut solo album, he uses the inspiration of the Mojave  High Desert to create Mudstomp Music, a fusion of 30’s Delta Blues and 90’s Grunge rock.  We have already featured a pair of these songs, “Mr. Bell” (which earned an LA Music Critic Award  nomination for Best Video (Male) for the second half of 2018) and “John the Revelator” (which was featured in our first Monday Mashup of 2019.   This is an album with much to say and an incredible way to say it, and is definitely one of the finest albums released to date in 2019.  If it took the death of Stone Stanley for the brilliance of Jason Robert to emerge, then may they rest in peace – the resulting art was worth it.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one – it will appeal to all of your senses.

Artist NameBettman & Halpin

Album Name1000 Miles

Label:  Fiddlin Lizard Records

Genre:  Americana/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Take me Home Country Roads; 2.  A Million Hearts; 3.  Don’t let it get you Down; 4.  Cherokee Rose; 5.  In Pain; 6.  Banjo Boogie Stomp Stomp; 7.  Keep on Singing; 8.  Mama Don’t you Cry; 9.  Reflections; 10.  Eastbound to Westville; 11.  Go on High; 12.  Spirits in the Shadows; 13.  Diggin’ in the Dirt; 14.  Stone County Breakdown

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Fiddler, songwriter and vocalist Stephanie Bettman and multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Luke Halpin are two of the most dynamic singer-songwriters and musicians to ever create an album.  We love this quote from their Facebook page:  “Some have said Bettman & Halpin is what would happen if Joan Baez had a lovechild with Charlie Daniels. . .  With roots in both bluegrass and classical music, Bettman & Halpin bring unforgettable soaring vocals and virtuosic instrumentation to their original Americana Folk Music.”  Along the way, they have won a myriad of competitions, including the 2008 SoCal Music Live acoustic competition, the 2007 Topanga Banjo/Fiddle contest, and been selected one of Folk Works Top 10 LA-based female singer-songwriters as well as one of Music Connection Magazine‘s Top 25 New Music Critiques, both in 2008.  Their latest project brings all of this out, and reveals a duo that prove that the finished product is so much more than the sum of its parts.  We love every track on this album, especially the impressive cover of John Denver‘s “Take me Home Country Roads” and the amazing vocal harmonies on “Don’t let it get you Down.”

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go Get this one.  You won’t want to stop listening.  This one is perfect for your next road trip.

Artist Name Y La Bamba

Album NameMujeres

Label:  Tender Loving Empire

Genre:  Latin Psychedelic Rock

Track Listing:  1,  My Death; 2.  Real Talk; 3.  Cuatro Crazy; 4.  Conocidos; 5.  Lightning Storms; 6.  Dieciséis; 7.  Boca Llena; 8.  Perder; 9.  Mujeres; 10.  Una Letra; 11.  Santa Sal; 12.  Bruja de Brujas; 13.  Follow Your Feet; 14.  De Lejos (bonus track)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  This project highlights the sound of this Portland-based band, and shows their firm grasp on their Mexican-American heritage, and the role of Mexican-American women like singer-songwriter Luz Elena Mendoza in today’s America.  The title track, an anthem for female empowerment, was highlighted by NPR as “a battle cry against machismo.”  It is one of a host of amazing tracks on this album which demand your attention.  You cannot listen to this album and not be moved, as the music and the lyrics make a powerful political statement.  Listen to this one over and over to capture all of its subtle nuances.  You will come away a changed person.

Recommendation:  This album demands your attention.  Unless you intend to be Switzerland, take a stand and Get this one today.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Women in Entertainment

Women in entertainment – Brie Darling, indie music pioneer and true renaissance woman

Welcome back for another edition of Women in Entertainment.  Today we are pleased to feature one of the pioneers of music, Brie Darling, who is currently the drummer, vocalist and songwriter of the resurrected 70’s band Fanny (now known as Fanny Walked the Earth), one of the stable of amazing artists signed to Blue Élan Records.

Darling has had a storied career spanning more than 50 years, and including a myriad of creative endeavors.  She joined the Sacramento Musician’s Union and played her first professional gig as a drummer when she was 14.  Five years later, she moved to Los Angeles and began playing clubs and bars until she got hired to perform as a recording artist.   She has recorded as an artist with
Fanny (the first all-girl band to release an album on a major record label), Earthquire, American Girls, Boxing Gandhis and now Fanny Walked The Earth.

Along the way, she has also recorded, toured with and performed with the likes of Melissa Manchester, Keith Moon, ELO, Ringo Starr, Robbie Nevil, Jimmy Buffett, Carole King, Nikki Sixx, Glen Campbell, Janiva Magness and The Temptations.

“I now go by Brie Darling (having previously been known as Brie Howard and Brie Howard Darling),” explains Darling.   “I’m a drummer, singer and songwriter who has dabbled in a few films, some TV and a whole lot of music videos.  I also make crazy amazing behemoth cakes and love designing and building houses . . . anything creative and artistic.   In fact, what truly inspires me is opportunity.  My motto is ‘Be open to everything and be ready for anything.”

“Besides writing songs that I have recorded, my songs have also been released by a plethora of other artists, including The Pointer Sisters, Ellen Foley, Randy Crawford, Peter Criss (Kiss) and Michael Jackson (“Night Line” is still in vaults awaiting release!)  I am really proud to have been part of writing and performing what has become an anthem for women’s rights, ‘When we Need Her.’  That song also earned us an LA Music Critic Award for Best Video (group) in 2018.”

Not only did 2016 bring the resurrection of Fanny, but also gave Darling the opportunity to compete on Cake Wars, where she took home first place.  Check out her amazing Facebook page for this endeavor.

What does the future hold for this amazing woman?  “I’ll keep writing, playing, performing and creating . . . until I can’t.  Please stay tuned for a brand new secret project that I’m thrilled about.  If you like what you’ve already heard, then I think you’ll love this.”

If you would like to know more about Darling, check out the links above for her website and her three Facebook pages.  If you’re in Los Angeles, make sure you don’t miss the next performance of Darling and her band, Fanny Walked the Earth.

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten amazing videos released in January 2019

Now that we have featured our 30 favorite singles for the month of January, let’s turn our attention to our 30 favorite videos.  We have already shared 20 of them via our weekly Monday Mashup column, and now present our final selections here in this Ten Amazing Videos article.

We’ll get started with an interesting rock video from the band Nixon’s Ghost.  This one has a very retro feel, and some pretty good animation.  Check out “Once you Leave.”

Our next video is from Hawksley Workman, a truly gifted musician who we think is destined for greater things.  Here is his moving video for “Lazy.”  We think you’ll really like this one.

Our third video is a stirring live performance by Emily King of her new single, “Can’t Hold Me.”  We absolutely love her vocals and everything about this song.  What do you think?

Video number four comes from Budapest, with the rocking sound of Ivan and the Parazol.  Here is their intriguing video for “Changin’.”

For our fifth video, we bring back one of our favorite indie artists, Tiffany Young.  She has a new look but the same great sound.  Here’s her latest, “Born Again.”

Next up is a stunning video shot along the Italian coast for Czech artist Thom Artway‘s latest single, “Can’t Wait.”  We can’t wait to check this one out.

Video number seven is a deeply disturbing yet moving video that visualizes the final track to the new album by Dollshot which we recently reviewed.  “Nacht und Träume” was written by Schubert and the lyrics are based on a poem by  Matthäus von Collin.

The latest from For Esme, a truly introspective tune called “To Love,” is our eighth video for this edition of Ten Amazing Videos.  We love the segue mid-song to an almost disco-esq dance beat.  Enjoy this one.

Our next to last video this month is from the one and only Jess Ribeiro, one of the premier indie artists from down under.  Although we don’t understand what’s happening in the video (and maybe that is on purpose), we still love the sound of “Stranger.”

We close out the month with the latest video from Toronto’s treasure Ace of Wands, the video for the title track of their forthcoming album, “Lioness.”  This one will move you to the core, especially the battle with self-destruction.  Long live the Ace of Wands!

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Ten Great Singles Women in Entertainment

Ten great singles released in January 2019

Greetings from the frigid northwest.  We’ve been inundated with snow and the bitter polar cold, but at least the music is hot and warms us to the core.  Let’s close out the month of January with our final 10 favorite singles out of the more than 200 we received this month.  We’ll bring our final 10 favorite videos later today.

Our first single is “Belleville Blues,” from the new album by Murray A. Lightburn which drops later this month.  It is a smooth, jazzy, soulful song that provides an easy listening start to this month’s list.

Our second single comes from American artist Jesse Hite, who is currently living in France as a singer-songwriter and producer.  We love the upbeat feel of this pop song, and think you will too.  Check out “When it All Comes Down.”

Our third single is a bluesy number called “Shakedown Blues,” and comes to us from LA-based blues rocker Kail Baxley.  We love his groove, which reminds us of the late great B.B. King.  Let us know what you think.

Single number four brings us “Offshoot” by a group of five lads from Costa Mesa, California who have incredible indie rock skills but are virtually unknown.  Let’s give some love to Spendtime Palace.

We head over to Portland, Oregon for our fifth single, which is the debut from experimental jazz artist Bryson Cone.  He mixes jazz, shoegaze and experimental sounds to form the amazingly cool track, “Destination Nightmare.”  We think you’ll like it, especially that amazing sax.

https://soundcloud.com/bryson-cone/destination-nightmare-1?mc_cid=e2baa83871&mc_eid=cd517367a3

We kick off our second five singles with this amazing indie pop/rock tune from LA-based Isla June.  We love the vibe, the vocal harmonies and the overall feel of “Knew you When” and think this tune has serious legs with potential for both radio airplay and consideration for placement in film and television.

https://soundcloud.com/islajune/knew-you-when/

We think everyone can relate to the subject of Don Brownrigg‘s latest single, “Bad Timing.”  We think he has nailed it with this radio friendly pop tune.

Sweden’s Elin K has descended on Los Angeles and offers us the stirringly beautiful track “Malibu,” paying homage to her new favorite beach.  This one will warm your heart.

Our ninth single is an upbeat dance tune called “Shoulder to Shoulder.” It debuted on Martin Luther King Day and is a call to action.   We would be proud to party with Wolves and share the message of this song.  Get on the dance floor.

Our final single this month is from Coco Bans, and we think it is the perfect way to sign off this month.  Check out the amazing vocals and sound of “Fighting Feathers.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 5

If you love defense, then yesterday’s Super Bowl was an incredible display of power.  Both offenses sucked, but the Rams especially had a tough time against Patriots’ Defensive Coordinator Brian Flores, who will become Miami’s new head coach.  It will be interesting to see what he brings to South Florida.  Only time will tell.  In the meantime, here’s our first Monday Mashup of this short month.  We will have our Ten Great Singles and Ten Amazing Videos articles and another Women in Entertainment profile up later this week before getting back into the Get it or Forget it reviews and New Music Friday.  Let’s enjoy the latest in indie music.

Photo credit: Andie Mills

SHE ROCKS AWARDS GIVEN OUT AT THE NAMM SHOW

For the seventh year in a row, awards were given out to recognize the accomplishments of female members of the music industry at last month’s NAMM Show.  Many of the honorees performed in a concert held at the House of Blues in Anaheim and hosted by the Women’s International Music Network (the WiMN).  In addition, a Hall of Fame award was introduced this year which honored Janis Joplin.   The award was accepted by her sister, Laura Joplin, who gave an impassioned speech.  Afterwards, the other honorees joined together in a medley of Joplin’s hits, including “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” and “Raise Your Hand.”  Those performing included Orianthi, Vanessa Amorosi, Judith Hill, Emily Armstrong, Sarah Command, Mindi Abair and Rock Sugah.

The full list of ladies honored in 2019 included Terri Nunn, lead singer of the iconic electro-pop band, BERLIN; Macy Gray, GRAMMY Award-winning singer, songwriter, producer and actress;
Lisa Loeb, Platinum-selling, GRAMMY Award-winning singer songwriter, touring artist and author; Nita Strauss, acclaimed solo artist and guitarist for Alice Cooper; Erika Ender, award-winning and chart topping composer, singer, co-writer of the hit “Despacito;”  Dana DuFine, VP Global Content and development AEG Facilities
Dale Krevens, vice president of Tech 21; Lynette Sage, art director of Reverb; Samantha Pink, director of business operations at JAM industries USA; Terri Winston, executive director, Women’s Audio Mission; Janet Bill Rich, Manage This Media and Bonnie Gallanter, co-producer of the She Rocks Awards and owner of Muse Artist Management.  Lyndsey Parker and Christine Devine hosted the event.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this month comes from Los Angeles electro-pop artist Zhao.  We really dig this vibe and think this one will get your week off to a great start.  Check out “Feeling Today.”

Next up is an indie rock trio who we introduced to you back in December in our Ten Great Singles article.  Valentin Marx bring us “Last Time,” and we hope it’s not the last time we hear this amazing group.  If you are in LA, check them out at the Hotel Cafe on February 15.

Our third single gives us the rocking blues guitar and vocals of J.D. Simo, and we can’t think of a better way to keep this party going.  Check out his latest single, “You Need Love,” from his forthcoming album scheduled to drop next month.

The incredibly sweet vocals of The Desert make our next single easier to swallow.  It may be called “Bitterness,” but there is nothing foul tasting in this amazing song from one of the UK’s best indie bands who we introduced to you last October in our Ten Great Singles article.

https://soundcloud.com/funnel-music/the-desert-bitterness-1/s-747iC

Last but definitely not least this week is the latest single from Fred Hostetler, the guitarist for the incredible blues band Blue by Nature.  Here is his new solo single, “I’m a New Man,” which takes his music to an entirely different level.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this month comes from Brisbane-based artist Mallrat.  We love the cinematography and the vibe of this awesome pop song, “Nobody’s Home.”

Our next video is an interesting one from former opera singer turned pop powerhouse Emin Eminzada.  Here is his single “Treasure Me,” which should get you ready for Valentine’s Day.

Your eyes and ears are in for a treat with the new music video from amazing soprano singer Amy Owens.  This one checks all the boxes – great song, incredible artist and amazing dancing.  Enjoy “Discreet.”

Video number four combines great blues and pop with an Americana vibe from Foxfeather.  We are in love with this song, and can’t wait to hear what comes next.  Please enjoy “Come and Get Me.”  We accept the invitation.

Our final video this week is from Maya Lavelle and uses the story of Don Quixote to visualize her amazing song, “House on a Rocky Road.”  This is one of the best indie videos we have ever seen, and think you will likewise agree.  Enjoy this one and we’ll see you next week.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Lost Cousins, Shayfer James, El Palacio de Linares, Eric Brace Peter Cooper and Thomm Jutz, Twilight Fields

It’s time to review five new albums that all dropped on Friday, February 1.  This is a very eclectic set of offerings, and we are happy to share the New Music Friday love.

Artist Name:    Lost Cousins

Album Name In Scenery

Label:  Pheromone Recordings

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Stay; 2.  Mindmaker; 3.  City Escape; 4.  Seajets; 5.  Trails; 6.  Montreal; 7.  Forest Floor; 8.  Shores; 9.  Nothing

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We introduced you to this amazing band last September when we featured their equally amazing single, “City Escape” in our Ten Great Singles article.  We said then that they belonged on the radio, and with the release of their new album, there eight more reasons for that assessment.  These songs are great, and the sound is true indie rock, with pop sensibilities and a touch of psychedelic rock to sweeten the mix.  The music is sweeping and majestic, and should also be considered for placement opportunities in television and film.  So glad that the Lost Cousins have arrived.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!

Artist NameShayfer James

Album NameHope and a Hand Grenade

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Gothic Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Mercy Down; 2.  Ophelia; 3.  Boots Worn Through; 4.  Day of Reckoning; 5.  Mostly Major Chords; 6.  Crack a Bottle, Run a Bath

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Shayfer James is a gifted songwriter who is heavily influenced by the likes of Danny Elfman, among others.  He adds a touch of reggae to his mix that elevates these songs to a new dimension, and will definitely remind the listener of the great songs released by Oingo Boingo.  These songs are definitely radio friendly, especially “Mercy Down,” Boots Worn Through,” “Day of Reckoning,” and “Crack a Bottle, Run a Bath.”  This is one of the best solo albums we have heard this year.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name El Palacio de Linares

Album NameLargos Agotadores

Label:  Pretty Olivia Records

Genre:  Latin Pop

Track Listing:  1,  Cielo Amahilo; 2.  Ciervo y Elizo; 3.  Este Rato (Contigo); 4.  Piscinas Naturales; 5.  Cuestiones Inciertas; 6.  El Estilo; 7.  Modo Aviõn; 8.  Pez Espada; 9.  Luz Blanca; 10.  Robert y Vashti

Publicist:  Bobo Integral

Review:  Music is truly the universal language, and even if you don’t speak Spanish, the power and joy of the words comes through in this collection of power pop tunes from Spain’s El Palacio de Linares.  The fun and upbeat rhythms will make you feel good, like the music of The Beatles speaks to those who don’t understand English.  We are proud to give this one two thumbs up, and encourage you to expand your horizons and add it to your collection.

Recommendation:  Whether or not you understand Spanish, this one belongs in your collection.  Go Get it.

Artist NameEric Brace, Peter Cooper and Thomm Jutz

Album NameRiverland

Label:  Red Beet Records

Genre:  Americana/Folk/Country/Bluegrass

Track Listing:  1.  River City; 2.  King of the Keelboat Men; 3.  Down Along the River; 4.  Drowned and Washed Away; 5.  Old Tom T. and Brother Will; 6.  Mississippi Magic; 7.  In the Presence of the River; 8.  Southern Mule; 9.  To be a Steamboat Man; 10.  As far as I can See; 11.  It Might be Hollywood; 12.  Uneasy Does It; 13.  Fort Defiance; 14.  Mississippi, Rest my Soul

Publicist:  Broken Jukebox Media

Review:  These three amazing musicians have just released their second album as a trio, and it sets the standard for modern day folk troubadours.  These songs about the Mississippi, both the river and the state, are destined to become part of American folklore.  This time around, they have joined with bassist Mark Fain and drummer Lynn Williams, and feature the artistry of the Steeldrivers’ Tammy Rogers on fiddle, Justin Moses and Terry Baucom on banjo, and Mike Compton on mandolin.  These songs will become a treasured part of your collection, and provide a wealth of information for American history buffs.  We especially love the sweet tribute to the great Tom T. Hall contained in “Old Tom T. and Brother Will.”

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you rush out and Get this one.  It is truly a musical treasure.

Artist NameTwilight Fields

Album NameSongs From the Age of Ruin

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1,  Prologue:  The Ruined City; 2.  Bomber; 3.  Lazarus; 4.  Demagogue; 5.  Offended; 6.  Taken Away; 7.  The Animal’s Song; 8.  Soldier Song; 9.  The Holy War; 10.  Maximum Darkness; 11.  Lovers in a Dangerous Time; 12.  Why did we do It?  (The Last Ones); 13.  Loss; 14.  Epilogue:  Barren Planet

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  Canada’s Twilight Fields combines elements of prog rock, ambient, dream-pop, psych-folk and shoegaze to form their own mix they call ambient rock.  The instrumentation is sweeping and broad, painting a picture perfect complemented by their stunning vocals and lyrics.  This is an album that recounts our failures but encourages us to do better.  Among the topics covered are the bombing of Hiroshima and the absurdities of the atomic age, homelessness and economic inequalities, the evils of populism and political repression, the toxicity of social media communication, animal rights, the utter stupidity of war and climate change.  It also features two stirring covers of Bruce Cockburn’s immortal classic “Lovers in a Dangerous Time” and Thin Lizzy’s “Holy War.”

Recommendation:  This one will make an interesting addition to your collection.  We highly recommend it.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – WANK, Radar State, Lazy Queen, Kristina Koller, Ted Russell Kamp

(Meant to finish this yesterday, but got a little under the weather, so we’re finishing it on Friday.  Friday’s regular Get it or Forget it will be published tomorrow.  Sorry for the delays.)

We close out the month of January with today’s Get it or Forget it, featuring five more reviews including the incomparable the latest from preeminent musician Ted Russell Kamp.  Let’s get this going.

Artist NameWANK

Album NameWhite Knuckle Ride

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop-punk/ska

Track Listing:  1.  Remington; 2.  Blue Skies; 3.  Salvation; 4.  Rollin’ On; 5.  Sweet Music; 6.  Believe It; 7.  Shut you Down; 8.  We Wanna Rock, 9.  It was You; 10.  Won’t let Go; 11.  Forgiven

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  WANK may be a pop-punk band but their sound is more akin to ska/indie rock bands like Reel Big Fish, No Doubt and Flogging Molly.    Their music is upbeat and fun, without all the angst associated with most punk music.  These songs are truly radio friendly and ready for heavy rotation, especially “Blue Skies,” “Salvation,” “Sweet Music, “Shut you Down,” “We Wanna Rock” (although it needs to remove the f*bombs), “It was You,” “Won’t Let Go,” and “Forgiven.”   They would also make great placements in film and television.  Take a fun ride with WANK – you won’t want the fun to end!

Recommendation:  You simply MUST Get this one!

Artist Name Radar State

Album NameStrays

Label:  Wiretap Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Strays; 2.  What’s a Rebel; 3.  Anywhere; 4.  Summer of Sundays; 5.  Damn the Man; 6.  Making me Feel; 7.  Self Hurt Guru; 8.  Artificial Love; 9.  Defender; 10.  Good Catholic; 11.  Leather Dye; 12.  Victims of Fashion; 13.  Play for the Game

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Radar State is a new band composed of Matt Pryor and Jim Suptic from The Get Up Kids, Josh Berwanger from The Anniversary and Adam Phillips from The Architects and The Gadjits.  Combined these four bring a strong punk flavor to their version of indie rock, complete with screaming guitars, great vocals and amazingly well written songs.  This band rocks, and deserves major industry attention, especially on songs like “Anywhere,” “Summer of Sundays,” “Artificial Love,” “”Defender,” “Victims of Fashion,” and “Play for the Game.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth adding to your collection, especially if you like a healthy dose of punk with your indie rock.

Artist NameLazy Queen

Album NameA Sigh so Deep

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Punk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  F*ck Kevin Spacey; 2.  Things I Think About While we F*ck; 3.  Apocalipstick; 4.  Turn from Void; 5.  Tamir

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Norwegian band Lazy Queen mixes raucous punk rock with profound lyrics that tackle such topics as gender identity, mental health, racism, police violence, relationships and self-destructive tendencies.  They are not your run of the mill punk band, but use a almost heavy metal rock to drive their lyrics home.  While some of the song titles may be explicit, the lyrics are less so, although there are a few f*bombs.    The story told in the lyrics is worth listening to, even though the musical accompaniment is pretty strong.  If you like your music hard, then this is a good choice for you.  We think the closing song, “Tamir” is the best track.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist NameKristina Koller

Album NameAt the Poli Club

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Save  Your Love for Me; 2.  Falling in Love with Love; 3.  I Didn’t Know About You; 4.  What a Difference a day Makes

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This EP is a live recording of part of Kristina Koller’s show last October at The Poli Club in Connecticut.  We reviewed her last album in May 2018, and we think this live recording affirms our previous assessment.  She has such a strong voice and with the help of her amazing jazz trio, she raises the bar for jazz performance.  This album will truly help you chill after a hard day of work, and should be a required item for your own well being.  Grab a glass of wine, sit back and enjoy jazz perfection.

Recommendation:  You need to chill to this one every day, so run out and Get it.

Artist NameTed Russell Kamp

Album NameWalkin’ Shoes

Label:  Poetry of the Moment Records

Genre:  Americana/Roots

Track Listing:  1,  Home Away From Home; 2.  Paid by the Mile (ft Sam Morrow); 3.  This Old Guitar; 4.  We Don’t Have to be Alone; 5.  Heart Under Pressure (ft Jaime Wyatt); 6.  Tail Light Shine; 7.  Highway Whisper; 8.  Get off the Grid (ft Brian Whelan); 9.  Written in Stone; 10.  Freeway Mona Lisa; 11.  Just About Time for a Heartache; 12.  Less Thinkin’, More Drinkin’ (ft John Schreffler); 13.  Roll on Through the Night

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Ted Russell Kamp is one of LA’s busiest musicians, spending his time on tour and in the studio with the likes of Shooter Jennings while still finding time to record and perform his own music.  In fact, Walkin’ Shoes is his 11th solo album.  He is joined by his touring pals John Schreffler and Jaimie Douglass, as well as local LA artists including Brian Whelan (Dwight Yoakum, Chris Shifflet), Dan Wistrom, Sam Morrow and Jaime Wyatt.  The result is his best material to date.  While most of the music he makes with Jennings is more southern rock, Kamp’s own material is closer to Americana  and Roots Rock, with a healthy dose of country and soul.  His lyrics are heartfelt and poetic, and deserve more industry attention.  We really love his duets with Morrow, Wyatt, Whelan and Schreffler (especially those horns and that jazzy NOLA sound).

Recommendation:  If you love the grit of good Americana music, then this one is a must for your collection.  Go Get It!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Illiterate Light, Joshua Powell, Te’Amir, Betty Bryant, Born to Uke

It’s hump day again, and time is racing towards the Super Bowl this Sunday.  While we wait for the big showdown, let’s check out these five interesting indie artists.

Artist Name Illiterate Light

Album NameSweet Beast

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Better Than I Used To; 2.  Nuthin’s Fair; 3.  Sweet Beast; 4.  Two Cats; 5.  Growin’ Down

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Composed of Jeff Gorman on guitar and vocals and Jake Cochran on drums and vocals, Illiterate Light is an impressive duo from Virginia who breathe new life into the alternative rock scene.  The sweet guitar riffs mesh perfectly with the steady drums while the vocal harmonies fill your senses with all the emotions contained in the well-written lyrics.  We featured the video for their song “Growin’ Down” in our Ten Amazing Videos of October, and also featured “Nuthin’s Fair” in our Ten Great Singles of December.  This is a band that is in it for the long haul, and we expect them to be around for a long time.  Their music is extremely radio friendly, especially the lead track “Better Than I Used To” and the latest single, “Nuthin’s Fair.”  In fact, “Better” has more than 300,000 plays on streaming platforms and was selected by NPR as one of the 10 Hot Summer Songs.

Recommendation:  Jump on this train NOW and Get their EP.

Artist Name Joshua Powell

Album NamePSYCHOTROPIC

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Black Lodge (water); 2.  Arrowheads or Worse; 3.  Bright Deceiver!; 4.  Econoline; 5.  Bliss is a Flak Jacket; 6.  Ascension; 7.  Spirit of the Trailer Park; 8.  Supercareful; 9.  Mandala in Reverse; 10.  ’59 Tomahawk; 11.  Chakra #6

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Joshua Powell has been a fixture on the indie music scene for many years with his band The Great Train Robbery.  Since moving to Indiana, he has emerged as a solo artist with his best work to date, what he calls a “spiritual acid trio.”  We just call it one of the best albums of 2019 to date.  The sound is radio friendly, with tones of psychedelic rock scattered through the folky groove.  This is a sound that should resonate with many indie rock lovers, growing his fan base exponentially.  The album is definitely worth multiple listens, and you may even want to put a few of these tracks on repeat.  There is not a weak one on the album, so put it on, sit back and enjoy.

Recommendation:  Drop whatever you’re doing and Get this one now!

Artist NameTe’Amir

Album NameAbyssinia + Abyssinia Rise

Label:  Tru Thoughts Recordings

Genre:  World Music

Track Listing:  Side A:  1,  Habesha; 2.  The Quest (ft Dustin Warren); 3.  All That you Need (ft Dustin Warren); 4.  Randal in Addis; Side B:  1.  Afrika; 2.  Back to Abyssinia; 3.  Blue Nile; 4.  Afar Hustle; 5.  Salem

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Te’Amir is a critically acclaimed drummer and producer from Los Angeles who has spent the last 10 years performing with Aloe Blacc.  On this vinyl release he has combined his two previous EPs into one amazing record.  The album pays homage to his Ethiopian heritage and shows why he is considered one of the most gifted drummers on the music scene today.  This is predominately an instrumental album full of beautiful music.  There are two tracks that feature the vocals of Dustin Warren which stand out from the album, and make it truly special, especially “All That You Need.”  This album is perfect for your chill times or when you just want to bask in the mastery of a true indie artist, especially the amazing sax on “Randal in Addis” and the incredible percussion and horns on the jazzy “Afrika.”  There are no weak tracks, so feel free to listen to this one from start to finish and then listen again and again.

Recommendation:  Go Get this one.

Artist Name Betty Bryant

Album Name Project 88

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz/Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Love Came and Went; 2.  Lady be Good; 3.  Catfish Man; 4.  Just You, Just Me; 5.  But Beautiful; 6.  Ain’t Nobody’s Business; 7.  Cho-Cho; 8.  They say it’s Beautiful; 9.  My Beloved; 10.  It’s Hard to say Goodbye

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Betty Bryant is proof that great musicians only get better with age and experience.  At the tender age of 88, Bryant has released her ninth CD as one of the premier pianists, composers and vocalists in jazz today.  The album title reflects her age and the fact that a piano has 88 keys.  Bryant composed half the songs on the album (excluding Lady Be Good, Just You, Just Me, But Beautiful, Ain’t Nobody’s Business and They Say It’s Beautiful), which are sure to join the plethora of great jazz standards.   The album is produced by amazing saxophonist and flutist Robert Kyle, who puts his personal stamp on several tracks, including “Just You, Just Me.”

Recommendation:  If you love jazz or blues, then you should definitely add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  Various Artists

Album NameBorn to Uke (Springsteen Tribute)

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Thunder Road (Sara Watkins); 2.  Tenth Avenue Freeze Out (Will Kimbrough); 3.  Night (Svavar Knútur); 4.  Backstreets (The Weepies); 5.  Born to Run (Emily Saliers); 6.  She’s the One (Keith Metzger); 7.  Meeting Across the River (Albatross); 8.  Jungleland (Kai Welch)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

ReviewBruce Springsteen released Born to Run in 1975, and this collection pays homage to that  seminal release using only ukelele, bass, percussion and vocals.  The album is a fundraiser for Little Kids Rock, which funds music education in underprivileged public schools.  It features several renowned artists, including Emily Sailers (The Indigo Girls), Sara Watkins (I’m With Her, Nickel Creek), The Weepies and Will Kimbrough.  They breath new life into these amazing songs and give Springsteen the respect that he has earned.

Recommendation:  If you love Springsteen and great music, then you simply must Get this one.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – David Vassalotti, Cold Weather Company, Dollshot, Royal Canoe, The Earthly Frames

Happy Tuesday.  As we close out the month of January, we still have some great new albums to share with you.  Here are five of them for your consideration.

Artist Name:  David Vassalotti

Album NameGuitar Dream

Label:  Wharf Cat Records

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock/Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  This Extravagant Lie; 2.  The Other Light; 3.  The Light; 4.  In the Garden; 5.  Devenir immortal . . .; 6.  The Lines Between Us; 7.  Let it Burn; 8.  Manifest Destiny; 9.  Outlines; 10.  What Shall you say Tonight?

Publicist:  Promo Jukebox

Review:  David Vassalotti makes great guitar music come alive with his dreamy sounding vocals over a perfectly composed musical soundtrack.  The songs have deep meaning contained in their lyrics, and Vassalotti has the perfect voice to convey all the emotions contained in those lyrics.  Hidden within these tracks is the incredible instrumental song, “The Other Light.”  Our only complaint is that there seem to be problems with the mixing, as the vocals seem to “float” on top of the music, as if they were added after all the instrumental tracks were laid down and not mixed together.  Other than that, we love it from start to finish, especially “In the Garden.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist NameCold Weather Company

Album NameFind Light

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Hazel; 2.  Clover; 3.  Brothers; 4.  Birds on a String; 5.  Circles; 6.  Do no Harm; 7.  Dawn; 8.  Pocket; 9.  The Things you Saw; 10.  Reclamation; 11.  Mount Desert Island; 12.  Old but True; 13.  Dusk; 14.  Slate House; 15.  Atlas; 16.  Do no Harm (reprise)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We introduced you to this band when we featured their single “Brothers” in our Ten Great Singles of October.  Two years in the making, this album is a superb example of indie excellence from amazing songwriters Brian Curry, Jeff Petescia, and Steve Shimchick.  They are true peers of bands like Mumford & Sons, Coldplay and The Decemberists, and deserve the same industry attention.   These songs are radio friendly and would be perfect for placement opportunities in film and television.  The vocals are soaring over a majestic and sweeping musical background that keeps the listener invested, especially “Do no Harm.”  These songs need to be enjoyed over and over again.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer.  Definitely go Get it.

Artist NameDollshot

Album NameLalande

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Paradise Flat; 2.  Gimbal; 3.  Circulate Stop; 4.  Lalande; 5.  Swan Gone; 6.  Ichor; 7.  Cynthera; 8.  Birds of the West; 9.  She; 10.  Nacht and Träume

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We introduced you to this band last year when we featured their single “Paradise Flat” in our Monday Mashup.  They have a distinctive sound with clear eerie vocals on top of a harder musical tone underneath.  Their music really transcends genre boundaries as it has pop vocals on top of a harder rock feel that is at times discordant but effective.  You can still feel their classical training at the core of their music as they bend the sounds to create their own unique mix.  The resulting sound is truly memorable and hard to forget.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist NameRoyal Canoe

Album NameWaver

Label:  Paper Bag Records

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  What’s Left in the River; 2.  Black Sea; 3.  intro; 4.  RAYZ; 5.  May 17; 6.  Ashes Ashes (ft Nnamdi Ogbonnaya); 7.  Girl of my Dreams; 8.  Peep This; 9.  Spin Cycle; 10.  77-76; 11.  Don’t

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We first introduced you to Royal Canoe back in September when we featured the music video for their first single, “RAYZ,” and came back with another feature on their second single, “Peep This” in December.  They mix elements of pop, rock, R&B and hip-hop, with glorious synth walls, obtuse guitar solos and beautiful organ lines, all tied together with a deep rhythmic interplay between the bass, drums and electronics.  The result is a sound that is truly multi-dimensional with easy cross-over appeal to a multitude of radio formats.  The focus is on the lyrics and the vocals, which have incredible harmonies that perfect capture the mood and meaning of these songs, especially on songs like “RAYZ,” “Peep This,” “77-76” and “Don’t.”

Recommendation:  Go Get this one!

Artist NameThe Earthly Frames

Album Name Light Reading

Label:  Self-release

Genre:  Experimental  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  A Doorbell for Finite Beings; 2.  Underrepresented Harmonics; 3.  She Waits for Yesterday; 4.  The Imagined Lives of Shirley Kudirka; 5.  Dismantling Ubiquitous Monitoring Systems; 6.  The Architectural Mnemonics of M. Nodisks; 7.  End Timed Family; 8.  A Teleological Wind; 9.  Dark Years History; 10.  Getting Started in Tempography; 11.  Eye on Ghost Singers; 12.  Time Moving in Light

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  We can guarantee you have never heard anything like the sophomore album from Gabriel Walsh aka The Earthly Frames.  It is as different of a project from the mainstream record as performance art is from theater.  Under the guise of a reading list, the song titles tell you nothing about the sweet sounds you are about to experience.  He incorporates country, folk and pop into this experimental and eclectic mix of sounds and words, creating something that stands out from the myriad of indie artists.  His 25 years of experimenting with music have definitely paid off with this hidden gem at the end of the rainbow.  This one is worth checking out just for the variety of styles and mixes that are instantly memorable.

Recommendation:  We recommend you go Get this one.  We don’t think you have anything like it in your current music collection.