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Artists Worth Checking Out Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Reviews See it or Skip it Theatre Women in Entertainment

HFF18 day 10 – see it or skip it

We took Tuesday off from the Fringe for the LA Music Critic Awards Winners Showcase at the Mint.  It was a glorious event, featuring the music of Pam Taylor, Alexis Keegan, Pi Jacobs, Great Willow, The Khourys, Rusty Young, Cindy Alexander, Ted Russell Kamp, Shiragirl and ROCKET.  The music was hot and we had a blast, and managed to raise $500 for the work of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Both Shiragirl (“Summers Coming”) and Alexander (“My Favorite Artist”) debuted brand new singles that will be released on Friday.  You should have seen Young’s face when we presented him with the 2018 Icon Award.  It was priceless.  We strongly advise you to check out the sounds of these award winning artists, and don’t forget to vote for your Fan Favorite with our current nominations for the first half of 2018.  Voting ends on Wednesday, June 27.

Very  special thanks to Patrick O’Heffernan of Friday Music Live, Jen Lyneis of Ue3 Promotions and Kirk Pasich of Blue Élan Records for your sponsorship of our event and your assistance in putting on this show.  We could not have done it without you.

On Wednesday we returned to the Fringe for a couple of shows, the first of which was at Studio/Stage.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Yellow Wallpaper

VENUE:  Studio/Stage

REVIEW:  This was a difficult play to review.  On the one hand, the ending left us with more questions unanswered than we had before it began.  On the other hand, the acting of Tatum Langton as Jane was truly wonderful, given the script she was given.  This adaptation shifted the focus from Jane and her descent into madness as described in the original short story, and instead focused on her family.  This shift did not play out well, leaving the audience literally “in the dark” about exactly what was happening.  It did cast a light on the horrible way that people suffering from mental illness have been treated in this country.  Even though it was set in the 1950’s, that same attitude is still prevalent today.  If nothing else, the play reminds us that we need to take better care of those suffering from mental illness, and do what we can to find a true cure for their ailment.

RECOMMENDATION:  We cannot truly endorse this play.  Although it has its moments, overall we think you should just skip it, as there are so many other plays to consider at this year’s Fringe.  Read the short story instead.

After viewing this play, we decided to head down and check out the Fringe Pride event at that LGBT Centre.  The space was lovely and there might have been more of the community in attendance if the Broadwater Plunge hadn’t decided to have their Grand Opening at the same time.  Parking was impossible, though, and we managed to get a ticket from the most obnoxious female cop.  Oh well, welcome to Los Angeles!  Back to the Fringe.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Mulatto Math:  Summing up the Race Equation in America

VENUE:  The Lounge Theater

REVIEW:  One of the joys (although it can be difficult at times) of sponsoring an award at Fringe is screening the shows that have applied.  We have had mostly great shows to screen so far (making our selection difficult), and Mulatto Math definitely falls in that category.  From the amazing original music of writer/performer/star Monique DeBose to the equally amazing accompaniment of Dwayne Augustine on double bass, this show was a thing of beauty.  DeBose is mixed race and grew up in California, although her black father was from the segregated South.  As someone who was born in North Carolina and raised in Virginia, both pre and post segregation, I could easily relate to her story of being trapped between two worlds, never fully integrated into either, but drawn to her father’s side.  Her conclusions, based on her own math formulas, were interesting and totally understandable, reminding us that we still have a long way to go for all races to feel truly free.  Hopefully this play will serve as a catalyst to better days ahead.

RECOMMENDATION:  Definitely go see this show.  There are two performances remaining, June 21 at 6 p.m. and June 23 at 10 p.m.  Grab your tickets here – don’t miss it!

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Reviews See it or Skip it Theatre Women in Entertainment

HFF18 day 8 – see it or skip it

Monday was a busy day, with 13 reviews to write, as well as three more shows to take in.  The reviews took a while, but I still had time to make a stop at Tom’s for a world famous pastrami sandwich before heading down to Three Clubs for our first show.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Night of the Rootbeer

VENUE:  Three Clubs

REVIEW:  Believe the hype – this is complete and utter nonsense.  If you love shows that are a complete waste of time, then this one is for you.  JJ Mayes gathers his best 20 best friends for a night of rootbeer, debauchery, posing and . . . who cares!  It was massive fun to watch these gifted actors act like complete and utter fools, and consume massive amounts of rootbeer.  At least one thing was accomplished . . . we finally know the source of Michael Shaw Fisher’s depravity – it’s the rootbeer!

RECOMMENDATION:  If you have nothing better to do, then see this show, but you have to get down on your knees with Scott Golden to get an invitation.  Two more shows on June 20 at 11:30 p.m. and June 23 at 2:30 p.m.  Don’t forget to make a donation at the door so they will let you leave.

TITLE OF SHOW:  From Toilet to Tinseltown

VENUE:  The Hobgoblin Playhouse

REVIEW:  If you are a hard-core Harry Potter fan, then this is definitely NOT the show for you.  Moaning Myrtle takes us from the bathroom at Hogwarts and embarks on a journey culminating in the comedy clubs of Hollywood.  FYI, Myrtle is a potty mouth, but she’s so damn funny.  This was the perfect follow-up to the nuttiness that is Night of the Rootbeer.  We laughed ourselves silly, and thoroughly enjoyed the ride.  The Hobgoblin may be out of the way, but in this case it was definitely worth the trip (and the parking charge).

RECOMMENDATION:  This one should definitely be on your list.  For a good time, call Myrtle.  Don’t miss her final show on June 23 at 5:30 p.m.  Get your tickets here.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Blind Spots

VENUE:  Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre

REVIEW:  Finally, a true play that is s well-crafted drama.  We were beginning to suspect that there was no true culture, and then we saw Blind Spots.  Thank you Colette Freedman for creating such a moving and stirring play, and for daring to do it without a single male!  Constance Dalton-Pawie has directed a masterpiece of theater, which is one of the best shows at HFF18.  Her delightful cast (Tamara Burgess, Koni McCurdy, Lindsay McGee, Michelle Pedersen and Veronica Wylie) work well as an ensemble.  The chemistry between these players is very evident, and makes the show seem like a documentary on free speech.  It was the perfect way to end a day of Fringe craziness.  We definitely see whatever this amazing team puts together next.

RECOMMENDATION:  You don’t want to miss their final show on Friday, June 22 at 7 p.m.  This one is the one that you will remember and treasure long after Fringe is over.  Get your tickets here.

If you need a break from the Fringe, come join Indie Voice Blog as we celebrate the LA Music Critic Awards with a winner’s showcase at The Mint on Pico Boulevard.  Doors open at 6 and there will be live music and awards all night, featuring the music of Lexie Rose, Pam Taylor, Alexis Keegan, Pi Jacobs, Great Willow, The Khourys, Rusty Young of Poco, Cindy Alexander, Ted Russell Kamp of CALICO the Band, Shiragirl and ROCKET.  Tickets are only $13 at the door.  Please join us.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Awards LA Music Critic Awards Women in Entertainment

Nominations announced for LA Music Critic Awards for first half of 2018

If you recall, we had to revise our submissions dates after the second half of 2017 because we had so many submissions.  As a result, the nominations we are announcing today cover the period  from December 1, 2017 through May 31, 2018.  We still received 339 submissions this time around, including more than 100 international ones, making our job harder than ever to winnow them down to those we have selected.

As always, fans are encouraged to vote for the Fan Favorite Award.  To vote for your favorite,  simply leave a comment below in the following format:  “I vote for (name of artist) for Fan Favorite.”  No other comments will be counted toward the Fan Favorite Award, and each reader may only vote once.   Comments made on other social media sites will not count.

Fans are also encouraged to comment on other award nominations, and those comments will be reviewed by the Awards committee.  However, they will not count for the Fan Favorite Award unless the comment specifically says that the artist is being nominated for the Fan Favorite Award. 

The deadline for voting for the Fan Favorite Award is Wednesday, June 27, 2018, at midnight MST.  The full list of winners will be announced at 2 p.m. MST on Friday, June 29, 2018.

Without further delay, here are the nominations.

BEST EP (Male) – Michael Malarkey (Captain Solitaire); Kevin Daniel (Myself Through You); Rich Krueger (Life Ain’t That Long); Eric Benoit (Heartrender); Larry Lacerte (Dreaming of the Ways)

BEST EP (Male International) – Tom Richardson (Promise of the Light); Average Dez (Beautiful Life); Purkinje (Voyager); Jeremy Romeo (All You’re Meant to Be); Saux (Right)

BEST EP (Female) – Alezzandra (The Black Rose); Amanda Mair (To the Moon); Kyler England (The Wilderness); Margaret Glaspy (Born Yesterday)

BEST EP (Female International) – Oklou (The Rite of May); Yuki Ame (Anamnesis); Clare Hennessy (April); Violetta Zironi (Half Moon Lane); Elin K (Still Your Desire)

BEST EP (Group) – TIDES (Crossroads); Only Bricks (Foundation); The Spider Accomplice (Los Angeles:  The Dichotomy); Tribal Seeds (Roots Party); Wildeor (Wildeor)

BEST EP (Group International) – Calembour (Let the Wind Lead us Home); Ellevator (Ellevator); Mushy Callahan (Revelations); Accent (In This Together); The Dreggs (Seas Embrace); Belle and the Beats (Lose Your Feathers)

BEST CD (Male) – Keith Harkin (In the Round); Rob Bonfiglio (Trouble Again); David Philips (Get Along); Kris Barras (The Divine and Dirty); Frank Hannon (From One Place . . . to Another, Vols 1 & 2); Luke Winslow-King (Blue Mesa)

BEST CD (Male International) – Mr. Pong (Echoes Between a Rock and a Hard Place); Jon Allen (Blue Flame); Endre Nordvik (Suburb Hero); Sule (Hold On); Dom Fricot (Deserts)

BEST CD (Female) – Kari Kimmel (Gold & Glitter); Janiva Magness (Love is an Army); Caitlin Canty (Motel Bouquet); Katie Herzig (Moment of Bliss); Leilani Wolfgramm (Live Wire); Cindy Alexander (Nowhere to Hide)

BEST CD (Female International) – Em Joy (The Feast); Bossie (Not Pictured); Kira May (Sense); Lucy Wise (Winter Sun); Esme Bridie (Today it Rains)

BEST CD (Group) – RVZOO & The Sugar Spun Elephant Band (Guiding Star); Hello Stranger (Long Division); The Nightowls (We are the Nightowls); Floods (Bad Times); The Evening Attraction (The End, Again); Southern Halo (Just Like in the Movies)

BEST CD (Group International) – John Flanagan Trio (Honest Man); Lee Ainley’s Blues Storm (Shoot me Down); Vickers Vimy (Atlas of Hearts); Fifth Dawn (Duality); Dany Franchi Band (Problem Child)

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Male) – Andy Sydow (“Reasons for Departure”); Sean McMahon (“Show me the Way”); David Garfield (“I Lied”), Keaton Simons (“1 2 3 Go”); Harts (“Ain’t Nothing on Me”); Rob Drabkin (“It’s a Beautiful Day”)

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Female) – FlecHaus (“Tell me Something”); Hannah Lucia (“Your Love”); Janey Street (“Undone”); Dree Mon (“Rebel Soul”); Kari Kimmel (“High”); Lucy Levinsohn (“Dear God”)

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Group) – The Zephyr Bones (“Telephone”); The Spider Accomplice (“Swallow”); Halo Circus (“Narcissist”); Fanny Walked the Earth (“Lured”); Floods (“Heavy Hearts”)

BEST VIDEO (FOR A CAUSE) – Alice Wallace (“Elephant”); riVerse (“Giant”), Ashley Delima (“Stay in America”)

BEST VIDEO (LYRIC) – Janiva Magness (“Protest Song”); Polly Baker (“Scraped Knees”); Foreign Figures (“Heart of Gold”); Cindy Alexander (“Passenger”); A Big Yes and a small no (“Enough is Enough”)

BEST VIDEO (COVER) – Frank Hannon (“Blue Sky”); Frank Hannon (“Sunrise in Texas”); Pros & iCons (“I Did Something Bad”)

BEST VIDEO (COLLABORATION) – Blue Elan Family (“Shine Down on Us”); Chelsea Williams and Poco (“Rose of Cimarron”)

BEST VIDEO (INTERNATIONAL) – Black Mamba (“Loop”); Young Galaxy (“Frontier”); DJ Moh Green (“Por Favor”)

BEST SINGLE (Male) – Keaton Simons (“1 2 3 Go”); Jesse Dayton (“May Have to do it”); Craig Cardiff (“Okay Cupid”); Johnny Stimson (“End of Times”); Jon Allen (“Jonah’s Whale”)

BEST SINGLE (Female) – Janiva Magness (“Down Below”); Aja Warren (“Show me the Magic”); Kris Angelis (“A Billion Hearts”); Ashley Delima (“Stay in America”); Manda Mosher (“Please Stand By”)

BEST SINGLE (Group) – Delsinki (“Wishing Upon a Star”); Crimson Calamity (“Fool’s Gold”); SIGNY (“Human”); Halo Circus (“Narcissist”); Feel Alright (“Cool Water”)

BEST SINGLE (INTERNATIONAL) – Reichelt (“Seduced by the Light Side”); tantamsound (“Blue”); The Dreggs (“Feel Alive”); Belle and the Beats (“Soldiers of the Night”); South Village (“Say it Now”)

BEST COMPILATION ALBUMWorth of Souls; Transference

BEST COVER ALBUM – Mark Erelli (Mixtape), Frank Hannon (From One Place . . . to Another, Vols 1 & 2); Craig Cardiff (Upstream Fishing All the Words, He Is – Birthday Cards for Bob Dylan)

BEST BLUES ARTIST – Janiva Magness, Meg Williams, Victoria Ginty, Peggie Perkins, Luke Winslow-King

BEST BLUES BAND – Ghalia and the Mamas Boys, The Keeshea Pratt Band, Lee Ainley’s Blues Storm, Barrence Whitfield & the Savages

BEST BLUES (TRADITIONAL) ARTIST/BAND – Reverend Raven and the Chain Smoking Altar Boys, Johnny Tucker, Miss Freddye, Teresa James and the Rhythm Tramps, Peter V Blues Train

BEST BLUEGRASS ARTIST/BAND – Tommy Emmuel, John Flanagan Trio, Becky Buller, Nefesh Mountain, Sideline

BEST CELTIC ARTIST/BAND – Wildeor, Vickers Vimy

BEST COMEBACK ARTIST – Rita Coolidge, Michael Peterson, Fanny Walks the Earth

BEST COUNTRY ARTIST – Ruby Boots, McMains, Laura Benitez, Sara Morgan, Kevin Daniel

BEST COUNTRY BAND – Flood County, Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst, Sarah Shook & the Disarmers, Southern Halo

BEST EDM/DANCE ARTIST/BAND – Computer Magic, Cultural Critic, Oklou, Saux, Amanda Mair

BEST FOLK ARTIST – Em Joy, Bob Crain, John Hufford, Tom Richardson, Martha Reich

BEST FOLK BAND – The Fisherman & the Sea; The Raven & the Fox, Century Thief, The Dreggs, Mala Ruckus

BEST HARD ROCK/METAL ARTIST/BAND – Tiavara, 1099, Animal Confession, Ovtlier, Ascending Dawn

BEST HIP-HOP/RAP ARTIST/BAND – 070 Shake, Mollys Reech, Camp Hope, Discrepancies

BEST INTERNATIONAL ARTIST – Tom Richardson, Clare Hennessy, Dom Fricot, Kira May, Jon Allen

BEST INTERNATIONAL BAND – Black Mamba, John Flanagan Trio, Fifth Dawn, The Dreggs, Belle and the Beats

BEST INSTRUMENTAL ARTIST/BAND – mmph, Mr. Pong, Jamison Isaak, Fernando Perdomo, Jay Katana

BEST JAZZ ARTIST – Kristina Koller, Shirley Crabbe, Patrick Yandall, John Proulx. Dani Ocean

BEST JAZZ BAND –  The Brubeck Brothers Quartet, News from Planet Kniffen, Grand Marquis, Susan Krebs Chamber Band, Roberta Donnay & the Prohibition Mob Band

BEST LATIN ARTIST/BAND – Adan Jodorowsky, Dexist, Cheo & Ulises Hadjis

BEST POP ARTIST – Cindy Alexander, Kari Kimmel, Kyler England, Amanda Mair, Michael Malarkey

BEST POP BAND – Thrillchaser, Viv and the Revival, Floods, Only Bricks, For Esme

BEST PUNK ARTIST/BAND – This is Eggland, The Tracys, Typhoid Rosie, Sharp/Shock, Johnny & the Bootlegs

BEST R&B/SOUL ARTIST – Marieme, Ann, Jon Allen

BEST R&B/SOUL BAND –  Ghost & the City, TIDES, The Nightowls, Ebb & Flow Band, Into the Ark

BEST ROCK ARTIST – Malina Moye, Alezzandra, Adrian Underhill, Margaret Glaspy, David Hopkins

BEST ROCK BAND – The Spider Accomplice, Hello Stranger, ROCKET, Fifth Dawn, Black Mamba, Halo Circus

BEST REGGAE ARTIST/BAND – Freevolt, Super Hi-Fi, Tribal Seeds, Leilani Wolfgramm, Sly & Robbie meet Dubmatix

BEST RETRO ARTIST/BAND – The Evening Attraction, The Swinging Laurels

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA ARTIST – Alison Ferrier, Caitlin Canty, Jenny Van West, Elise Wunder, Gerry Spehar, McMains

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA BAND – Acadian Driftwood, Under the Oak, County Well, Bay Station, Porlolo

BEST SOUTHERN ROCK ARTIST/BAND – Blackwater Lake, James Scott Bullard, David Fitzpatrick, Allman Goldflies Band

RISING STAR – Jamey Geston, Ray Goren, Rachel Arianna

BEST SINGER-SONGWRITER – Average Dez, Caleb Michael, Katie Vincent, Michael McDermott, Jenny Van West, Mike Vitale

FAN FAVORITE – ???

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2018: vol. 22

It’s another week, and it will be a busy one.  We will be leaving on Sunday to head down to Los Angeles for the Hollywood Fringe Festival.  We have 51 shows on our schedule to review, including about 15 that have submitted for consideration of our Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence.  We will also be  having our second annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase on June 19 at The Mint, where we will have some amazing winners perform in support of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Tickets are available online for $10, and will be available at the door for $13.  We hope to see you there.

UNSIGNED ONLY COMPETITION ENDS JUNE 6

The final week of the Unsigned Only “Grand Slam” special promotion has kicked off, running until midnight on June 6 (CST).  All entries will also be included into the 2018 Unsigned Only Music Competition.  This is your very last time to enter, so if you want to enter more songs (or enter for the first time this year), you still have a chance to participate in this year’s competition, but you need to hurry.

Winners for the previous three weeks of the promotion, as well as the current week, will be announced along with all of the other category winners in September 2018.   Just for entering, all entrants will receive 100 free spins to Radio Airplay (regardless of whether you are an existing Radio Airplay member or a new member).  Additionally, every entrant will also be entered into the overall 2018 Unsigned Only competition and have the chance for their music to be heard by a high-profile panel of judges, as well as be eligible to share in over $150,000 in cash and prizes.

HOME RUN | May 30 – June 6 | GET PAID FOR THE WIN – Click Here For Info
Click Here To Enter Your Songs
NEW SINGLES
First up today is a long-time favorite of this blog, and one of the amazing artists signed to Blue Élan Records.  Recent winner of the LA Music Critic Award for Rising Star, here is “Honey, Honey” from the unforgettable Chelsea Williams.

Next up is “Sort Myself Out” from Becoming Bristol, fka The Exchange.  We like the sound of this band and look forward to hearing much more from them.

Single number three today is from a voice familiar to lovers of the TV shows Suits, Lucifer, Bones, Nashville and One Tree HillGareth Dunlop has a new single that we think you’ll love.  Here is “Blind to the Pain” from his forthcoming EP Many Moons Ago.

Our fourth single today is from The Cravens, who we have previously reviewed and featured on this blog.  They have a “Message” for you, and we think you’ll be glad to get it.

Our final single today is “Don’t Blink” from John Santiago, frontman for Johnny & the Bootlegs, which we recently reviewed in Get it or Forget it.  Let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Lauren Balthrop‘s upcoming September album, This Time Around.  Here is the lyric video for “Down.”

Next is the very retro feel of Peter Cat with his new single “Hand Through Hair.”  Groovy, Baby.

Our third video this week is from one of the newest artists on Blue Élan Records, Red Wanting Blue.  Here is the video for their new single, “High and Dry.”

And now, for something completely different, here is a sneak preview of the new video from Runaway Symphony which will be released on June 12.  Check out this live performance of “The Fall of Man.”

Our final video this week is “All the Way” from Cherry Pools.  We think it’s the perfect segue to summer and a wonderful week.  See you soon.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Alice Skye, Krantz, Jackson Reed, Shirley Crabbe, Dany Franchi, Smaller Hearts

With these six reviews we have finally made it to the end of the submissions for the first half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards.  Tomorrow we will bring you our normal Monday Mashup, followed on Tuesday and Wednesday by our Ten Great Singles and Ten Amazing Videos for the month of May.  On Thursday we present our Ten 2018 Fringe shows we are most excited about, and on Friday we will announce the nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards.  Gonna be a busy week.  Here we go.

Artist NameAlice Skye

Album NameFriends with Feelings

Label:  CAAMA Music

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  For Every Year; 2.  Poetry by Text; 3.  1966; 4.  Friends with Feelings; 5.  For Those who Need It; 6.  60%; 7.  Melbourne; 8.  She Oak; 9.  Only Bones get Left Behind; 10.  The Only Version of You

Publicist:  Penney and Logan

Review:  Alice Skye is the latest Australian artist to perfectly capture that Hotel Cafe’ sound made famous by artists like Sara Bareilles, Ingrid Michaelson and Colbie Caillat.  Her music is breezy and upbeat, with soaring vocals and keys combined in memorable and radio friendly songs.  It is no surprise that Skye is considered one of the best songwriters in Australia, nor that the highly respected CAAMA Music signed her to a recording contract.  This is the kind of music you don’t get tired of, despite repeated listens.  Although the entire album is a worthy effort, our favorites include “Poetry by Text,” the title track, “60%,” “Melbourne,” and “Only Bones get Left Behind.”

Recommendation:  This one deserves a definite spot in your music library – we recommend you Get it.

Artist Name Krantz

Album NameThe Pennock Tapes

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Weedeater; 2.  All Outta Love; 3.  Can’t Forget; 4.  Run Away with Me; 5.  Until we Meet Again

Publicist:  Effectively Immediately PR

Review:  Krantz has a very cool retro rock vibe which turns their songs into something insanely cool.  All five songs are delivered in an upbeat, energetic frenzy, which probably indicates that they are a blast to watch perform live.  The influences from the golden age of rock and roll are evident in their music, ranging from the Monkees, Buddy Holly and Little Richard to British invasion bands like Herman’s Hermits and Mott the Hoople.  This is music that will appeal to music lovers of all ages, from Baby Boomers to Millennials.  The EP is just too short, but they leave us with hope “Until we Meet Again.”

Recommendation:  Krantz has an instantly memorable sound that appeals to all ages.  Definitely Get this one for your collection.

Artist NameJackson Reed

Album NameDark Areas of Description

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Dark Areas of Description; 2.  Taller Than Me; 3.  Cathedral Grove; 4.  Restless Ones; 5.  Love Won’t Stop a Hurricane; 6.  Forgotten Ones; 7.  Nasty Boy

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  The album opens with the title track, an experimental instrumental song that is dark and dangerous with a healthy folk vibe that demonstrates the musical skills of Jackson Reed.  Unfortunately, as shown on the next track, “Taller Than Me,” he does not have the same abilities vocally,   His tone is pitchy, but he manages to pull it off through sheer tenacity because the songs are so well written and otherwise skillfully played.  On “Restless Ones” and “Forgotten One,s”  he returns to that skillful instrumental style, and they are by far the best songs on the EP.

Recommendation:  If quality vocals are a necessity for you, then forget this one.  However, if you can ignore that small shortcoming, and love great musicianship, then definitely Get this one.

Artist NameShirley Crabbe

Album Name Bridges 

Label:  MaiSong Music and Entertainment

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Isn’t This a Lovely Day; 2.  Taking a Chance on Love; 3.  Bridges; 4.  The Bridge; 5.  I Didn’t Know What Time it Was; 6.  Promise Me; 7.  The Windmills of Your Mind; 8.  And so it Goes; 9.  Thief in the Night; 10.  Blessed Assurance

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Shirley Crabbe possesses one of those voices we haven’t heard in quite a few years, truly reminiscent of jazz legend Ella Fitzgerald.  Crabbe has assembled some of the finest jazz players in New York City, including the unbelievable pianist, Donald Vega, who brings his magic to each and every song.  Her music is a throwback to the Golden Age of Jazz vocals, and instantly creates images of a smoky lounge with a cigarette-smoking pianist and the spotlight on the someone like Billie Holiday or Ella Fitzgerald, complete with a feather boa singer her heart out.  It is music for relaxing and forgetting about the troubles of the day, and definitely belongs in the music library of every jazz and standards lover.  Listen to it from start to finish, because it definitely builds that chill mood.  We know it’s cliche, but if she recorded an album singing the phone book, people would buy it.  She closes the album with a stirring interpretation of the Gospel classic, “Blessed Assurance,” leaving us to only say, “We believe.”

Recommendation:  Don’t be left out in the cold,   Get this one now.

Artist NameDany Franchi

Album NameProblem Child

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Funk

Track Listing:  1.  Back to the River; 2.  Give me a Sign; 3.  Big Town Playboy; 4.  Real Love; 5.  Run Around; 6.  You Don’t Want Me; 7.  Don’t Steal my Time; 8.  Sensation; 9.  My Only One; 10.  Big Kind Hearted Man; 11.  Every Thing Gonna be Alright; 12.  Wanna Know; 13.  Problem Child

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  Italian born blues guitarist Dany Franchi has been taking the blues world by storm these past few years, and is currently touring across the United States in support of his amazing new release, Problem Child.  From the first notes of “Back to the River,” the horns, combined with Franchi’s soaring vocals and riveting guitar riffs, demonstrate that this is a blues artist you simply cannot ignore.  You will find something to like in every song on the album, and may find yourself putting a few of them on repeat.

Recommendation:  You simply must add this one to your collection.  Get it now!

Artist NameSmaller Hearts

Album NameSmaller Hearts

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Electro-pop

Track Listing:  1.  Summertime III; 2.  Lost Words; 3.  Crossing; 4.  Maisie; 5.  The Ups and Downs of Forgetting Everything; 6.  Chipper; 7.  Hibernation; 8.  Summertime IV; 9.  U1OG; 10.  Climbing; 11.  The Year we Spent Awake

Publicist:  Pigeon Row

Review:  The electro-pop scene seems to be getting a lot of attention lately, especially from international acts.  While they strive to be a cross between Pet Shop Boys and The Postal Service, they fail to reach that level of greatness.  According to our resident expert on electronic music, the songs are too slow to reach the desired sound.  In addition, they had an irritating undertone that was almost as annoying as the sound of mosquitoes.  They did, however, achieve their mission on “Maisie” and “Chipper,” but missed the mark on the other nine.  We think they need to go back to the drawing board and spend some time listening to the bands they are trying to emulate before making another attempt.

Recommendation:  Forget this one, but be open to their next attempt.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Gyles Bartle, Jamison Isaak, For Esme’, Hello Stranger, Sandra Love and the Reason, Quin Gibbs

June has arrived and with it all the craziness of summer.  We received more than 340 submissions for the first half of 2018 for  the LA Music Critic Awards, and more than 100 of those were from outside the United States – pretty impressive.  We will have six reviews per day for you today and tomorrow, after which we will compile our nominations for the Awards.  The nominations will be announced on June 8.  We truly thank you for your support.  Let’s get started.

Artist NameGyles Bartle

Album Name96

Label:  Because Music

Genre:  Hip-Hop

Track Listing:  1.  You; 2.  Days Apart; 3.  Gold; 4.  9th Flr; 5.  Medium

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society Communications

Review:  From South East London comes Gyles Bartle, a 20 year old hip-hop artist with something to prove on his debut EP.  He has crafted some sick beats to underscore his well-written words.  His style is similar to Snoop Dogg, but he speaks of things that impact his life in the UK.  We expect to hear much more from this promising artist.  Our only major critique is to speak more clearly, especially when words are your “Medium.”

Recommendation:  If you like hip-hop – give this one a spin.

Artist NameJamison Isaak

Album NameEP2

Label:  FLORA

Genre:  Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  First; 2.  Us; 3.  Animals; 4.  Peace

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  We introduced you to this amazing artist back in February when we reviewed his first EP, and are thrilled to once again have the chance to review his new one.  He continues to amaze us with his piano prowess,   This time around, his music is more upbeat than reflective, but still soothing, especially his single, “Us.”  Jamison Isaak is the recipe for the perfect “chill.”

Recommendation:  This one is another must-have.  Get it and relax today.

Artist NameFor Esmé

Album NameRighteous Woman

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Doubtmouth; 2.  For Others; 3.  Small Talk; 4.  You; 5.  Make a Sound; 6.  Just Yet

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Toronto-based band For Esmé is a beacon of hope for the future of pop music.  Their bright tone, upbeat electronic sound and heartfelt lyrics give us hope that there are bands that understand the future of the business, and the importance of being real in this unreal world.  Their songs honestly address the issues affecting young women in our current age, and bring those issues into focus  in a way that few previous artists have done.  From the hard-charging “Doubtmouth,” this EP blasts off into the stratosphere and never comes down.  Musically, these tunes would play well in the EDM community and be the perfect additions to the latest dance club mix.

Recommendation:  This one is a keeper.  We highly recommend you Get it today.

Artist NameHello Stranger

Album NameLong Division

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  The Flood; 2.  All the Things I’m Not; 3.  Smiling in the Night; 4.  Virginia; 5.  Breakthrough; 6.  Little Old Me; 7.  I Didn’t Speak for You; 8.  We Don’t Talk About Them; 9.  Celebration; 10.  Ovation; 11.  Victorious

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Hello Stranger is the latest alt rock band from Los Angeles whose sound is extremely radio friendly.  Behind the charismatic and soaring voice of Sam Deffenbaugh, the band rocks out behind the stimulating drums of Daniel Rodriguez, the electrifying guitar of Deffenbaugh and the steady bass of Sam Plotkin (who also supplies great backing vocals).  They demonstrate that they understand their rock history, with obvious influence from bands like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young on “All the Things I’m Not” and “Smiling in the Night,” among others.  From just listening to these great songs, we would love to see their live performance, as we can only imagine the energetic way they must be.  While we like the entire album, our favorite tracks include the two previously named, as well as “Virginia,” “Breakthrough,” “I Didn’t Speak for You,” “Ovation,” and “Victorious.”

Recommendation:  Get this one like your life depends upon it – they will make your day!

Artist NameSandra Love and the Reason

Album NameManifest Your Dreams

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Funk/Soul/Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Tired; 2.  Ain’t Nobody; 3.  Can’t Come Back; 4.  Mind Your Business; 5.  Wild Woman; 6.  Music (Please Don’t Go); 7.  On Everything; 8.  Channel Fever; 9.  Beans; 10.  Manifest; 11.  I Need Money

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Besides Mardi Gras, New Orleans is well known for being the home of a plethora of incredible musicians.  The latest to stake their claim is Sandra Love and the Reason, which combine funk, soul, rock and blues to create their own special sound.  While we are sure they put on a great show, their debut album could have used a bit more engineering, especially on the vocals.  Love obviously has a lot of passion and emotion in her voice, but she gets pitchy at times, which distracts a little from the amazing musicianship of her band.  The good news is that the band is so tight and the music so hot that it is easy to overlook the pitch because it is so easy to just get caught up in the music.  The album is a worthy first effort, and we are sure that the next one will be even better.

Recommendation:  We think this band has potential.  Grab their debut CD and watch them live if you can.

Artist Name Quin Gibbs

Album NameBeautiful Noize:  The 90s Baby EP

Label:  Nuclear Group Entertainment

Genre:  Hip-Hop/Rap

Track Listing:  1.  Christopher Shakur; 2.  90s Love; 3.  Candy Land; 4.  LaLa; 5.  62 Cents (ft. iSHY); 6.  Between the Sheetz (ft. Waun Love); 7.  Shawn Gibbs

Publicist:  Nuclear Group Entertainment

Review:  Caution parents:  This one is labeled “Explicit” for good reason.  Despite the language, Quin Gibbs has a good command of his words, and knows how to create memorable tunes situated on a base of sick beats.  The words are raw and real, and bring Gibbs into the realm of such artists as Tupac, Snoop Dogg and Notorious B.I.G.  We have a feeling that you’ll be hearing a lot more from Mr. Gibbs, as this EP serves as a teaser for his upcoming full-length album.  Best tracks include “90s Love” and “Between the Sheetz.”

Recommendation:  If you love Tupac, Snoop Dogg, hip-hop and rap, then you should grab this one.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – XSyntax, Wildeor, Kira May, News From Planet Kniffen, Abolitionist

And we’re back with the first of our final five Get it or Forget it reviews for the first half of 2018 submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards.  We have five artist for you to check out.  Don’t miss our June 8 announcement of the nominations.  Let’s get started.

Artist NameXSyntax

Album NameWaterMusic

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Electronica/EDM

Track Listing:  1.  Happy DanceMix; 2.  Aw Yeah!!; 3.  Dream On; 4.  Technix V; 5.  Caravan in the Desert; 6.  SynTechys002; 7.  Night Airs; 8.  Urbanized; 9.  Transcendent Mind; 10.  Cosmic; 11.  Beyond Earth; 12.  Lios1

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This one is unlike anything we have reviewed before.  It is a mixture of club ready EDM tracks, as well as ambient tunes like “Dream On” that are perfect for relaxation, meditation and yoga.  Richard Aardenburg, the genius behind XSyntax, is a master of synthesized music, and pulls out all the stops on this incredible treasure.  We think he should take the next logical step in his musical career and begin composing music for the film industry.  We think he has everything he needs to be quite successful in that endeavor.  In the meantime, we will put this one on in the background and more forward with our week.

Recommendation:  If you enjoying dancing or relaxing, this one is the perfect choice for you.  Get it now.

Artist NameWildeor

Album Name:  Wildeor

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Northern County Line; 2.  Rain on the Moon; 3.  The Devil Makes Three; 4.  Come Down; 5.  Slow Moving Water

Publicist:  Magic Tree Productions

Review:  Wildeor is an alternative folk band from Los Angeles that makes haunting folk music reminiscent of Enya.  The smoky smooth vocals of group founder Megan Brickwood sit perfectly upon the foundation of Celtic and medieval influences of the musical soundtrack.  We featured “The Devil Makes Three” in last week’s Monday Mashup, and are thankful that we also get to review their EP.  This is an album that belongs on repeat because their music is addictive and needs to be heard over and over again.  We think this is one of the finest EPs we have reviewed this year, and hope to see them live at some point in the not too distant future.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer.  You simply must Get it.

Artist NameKira May

Album NameSense

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Experimental vocal Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Taste; 2.  Muscle Memory; 3.  Heat; 4.  Saturation; 5.  Sensory Deprivation; 6.  Touch; 7.  Vibrations; 8.  Fear; 9.  Forgiveness; 10.  Waves

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Toronto-based indie artist Kira May uses her voice and an eerie musical background to create amazingly relaxing and ambient songs that are haunting and unique.  Like the two artists above, her music is best placed on repeat to provide a soundtrack for your relaxation and mediation time.  We previously featured her video for “Muscle Memory” in our list of Ten Amazing Videos from February 2018.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you check out this artist and Get her LP.

Artist NameNews from Planet Kniffen

Album NameDreamland

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Progressive Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Blackness; 2.  Peace Journey; 3.  Back in Black; 4.  Midnight Drive; 5.  Dreamland; 6.  Song of Everest; 7.  Beautiful Mystery; 8.  Inspiration; 9.  Tick Tock

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  News from Planet Kniffen is an amazing jazz band from Saratoga Springs, New York.  They play progressive jazz that is receiving critical acclaim while their latest album keeps moving up the Contemporary Jazz charts, where it was #5 a few weeks ago.  Darryl Kniffen has gathered some of the best talent for his band, including Chilean vocalist Natalia Bernal, Emmy Award-winning guitarist and composer Freddy Shehadi, trumpeter Richard Boulger as well as Saturday Night Live saxophonist Alex Foster.  The  resulting music is a delectable jazz mix that is both uplifting, upbeat and relaxing.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one, if  you are a jazz fan or just like great music.

Artist NameAbolitionist

Album Name The Instant

Label: 1859 Records

Genre:  Punk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  The Instant; 2.  Trouble; 3.  A Little Animal Liberation Never Hurt Anybody; 4.  Up Rising, Together; 5.  The Movement; 6.  Backlash; 7.  Never Wanted This; 8.  Everything’s Great (but we’re still sh@t); 9.  Failed Projections; 10.  Totally Bonkers; 11.  What if . . .?

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Breaking with the theme of the rest of today’s artists comes Abolitionist, a punk band from Portland, Oregon with something to say.  Like most punk music, the songs are high energy, intense and short, but beyond the normal angst, these songs actually have something to say.  Although not our normal cup of tea, we give kudos to the band for tackling some controversial issues that plague modern man.

Recommendation:  If you love punk music, you should definitely check out these guys.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: Vol. 21

We’re back with our final Monday Mashup for the month of May and it’s Memorial Day.  Please take a moment to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to secure and maintain the freedoms that we enjoy.  In the meantime, here’s the latest news in the indie world, as well as five new singles and music videos to get your week started.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL

The ninth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival kicks off on Thursday with a week of previews before the Opening Night Party on June 6.  Click on the link above for tickets to more than 380 shows.  We are heading down from Montana on June 10 and will be in town through the end of the Festival on June 24.  We will be reviewing around 50 shows, including 13 being considered for our Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence.  Watch for our See it or Skip it reviews starting June 12.

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE

Don’t forget about our showcase on June 19 at The Mint, a world famous venue on West Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles.  We have 10 winners scheduled to perform, plus a special appearance by the original 90’s band Shiragirl prior to them leaving on the final Vans Warped Tour.  Tickets are available by clicking this link.  Don’t miss the chance to see the legendary Rusty Young of Poco perform.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single today comes from Kris Angelis, who has won several of those LA Music Critic Awards, among others.  She is currently working on her follow-up to the award-winning EP Heartbreak is Contagious.  Here is her latest single, “Photobooth.

Our second single comes from Sonofa King, the son of the legendary Ben E. King, who has recorded a cover of his father’s biggest hit, “Stand by Me.”  It is part of a tribute album he made, which covers ten songs performed by his dad.  Watch for our album review shortly.

Next up is the new single, “All This Noise,” from the forthcoming EP by Dead Ceremony.  We love the vibe of this future pop hit, and can’t wait to review their EP.

Our fourth single today is so hot you’d be a “Fool” not to love it.  Check out the latest from Canadian R&B singer Sara Diamond.

Our final single is “Just in Case,” courtesy of Christina Custode, an artist we previously featured here on Monday Mashup.  She reminds us of Sara Bareilles, and we love it.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up is the band Pros & Icons, who are trying to upstage Taylor Swift by releasing a video cover of her song “I Did Something Bad” before she has the chance to do so.  It is a bold endeavor, and we think they nailed it.  What do  you think?

Next is Franny and Zooey, an Australian duo with heavenly harmonies.  Check out their video for “My Love.”  We want to hear this one on the radio.

Our third video comes from Swedish singer Alice Boman, with a live performance of her song “Heartbeat.”  This one will take your breath away.

Our next music video is for all the David Bowie fans.  Check out “Perfectly Imperfect,” the first video by The Sick Bags.  Let us know what you think.

Our final video this week comes from Stephen Michael Murphy, and is a lyric video for his song “Never Ever Here.”  We think it’s the perfect song to close out this edition of Monday Mashup.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Martha Reich, Duvel, Tom Richardson, Into the Ark, The Keeshea Pratt Band

Welcome to our special Sunday edition of Get it or Forget it, as we continue our reviews of submissions for the first half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards.  Her are five more to check out.

Artist NameMartha Reich

Album NameBrave Bird

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Progressive Folk

Track Listing:  1.  If you Only Knew; 2.  Fade Away; 3.  So Brave; 4.  The River; 5.  I’d Rather be Surprised; 6.  The River (instrumental); 7.  Over the Rainbow

Publicist:  Broken Jukebox Media

Review:  Martha Reich is a modern combination of Joan Baez and Joni Mitchell, preserving their folk legacy for a new generation.  “If you Only Knew” how hard it is to be “So Brave” in writing songs of this caliber, then you would realize that Reich’s music will never “Fade Away.”  Her instrumentation is pure and sweet and fully demonstrated on the instrumental version of the spectacular song, “The River.”  The cherry on the top of this amazing set of original tunes is her skillful interpretation of the classic “Over the Rainbow,” which we believe will surely stand the test of time and become one of your favorite covers, second only to Iz’s unforgettable version.

Recommendation:  This one is a must have if you love folk music.  We highly recommend you Get it.

Artist Name Duvel

Album NameAttempts at Speech

Label:  Fysisk Format

Genre:  Post-punk

Track Listing:  1.  Winter Dreams; 2.  Going Home; 3.  Skin Deep; 4.  Strange; 5.  Ashamed; 6.  Sacred Place; 7.  Plastic Bags and Seagulls; 8.  Falling; 9.  Visions; 10.  Breathe; 11.  Cynics; 12.  Birds

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  From the autonomous youth community of Blitz in Oslo, Norway comes the post-punk sound of Duvel, who has created controversy on Spotify with their cover art.  Without that controversy, most people would probably not be checking out their music.  That would be a shame, because although the lyrical content is quite simplistic, the high energy of this trio combine to form some interesting songs.  These are not the kind of songs you hear on commercial radio, but they are the kind that demonstrate that this band has to have a dynamic stage show to contain all that energy.  Although they are not our cup of tea, they are worth checking out, and will probably be a big hit with our younger audiences.

Recommendation:  If you love punk and/or high energy rock, then you should definitely check them out.

Artist NameTom Richardson

Album NamePromise of the Light

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Can you Hear Her; 2.  Healing of the Heartbeat; 3.  Give Your Heart Away; 4.  Wildest Dream; 5.  Leave a Light; 6.  Somebody say Love

Publicist:  Penney and Logan

Review:  The music of Tom Richardson has been called the voice of John Mayer combined with the activism of Bob Marley and George Harrison.  We debuted “Healing of the Heartbeat” in our Great Singles of April article, and nowhere is the previous statement better demonstrated.  We can add Richardson to the growing list of Australian artists that have a realistic possibility of breaking into the American music scene, and we strongly encourage American radio station managers to add his tunes to their rotation, especially “Healing of the Heartbeat,” “Leave a Light,” and “Somebody Say Love.”

Recommendation:  This one is dying for a place in your music library.  Get it today!

Artist Name Into the Ark

Album NameValencia

Label:  Blackwood Records

Genre:  Acoustic Soul

Track Listing:  1.  No Place Like Home; 2.  Caroline; 3.  Better Than Never at All; 4.  Good Lord; 5.  Don’t Roll Your Eyes

Publicist:  Missing Piece Group

Review:  Into the Ark appeared on last year’s The Voice UK, and so impressed their mentor and fellow Welshman Tom Jones that he added them to his current American tour.  Within a few notes of listening to “No Place Like Home,” it becomes quickly obvious why Mr. Jones fell in love with this dynamic duo.  Their harmonies, combined with a simple guitar accompaniment, are the perfect accessories to the incredibly well written songs.  This is a band that knows what they want and are unwilling to let anything stop their dream.  We can hardly wait to see what’s next for them.

Recommendation:  Don’t think twice – Get this one today!

Artist NameThe Keeshea Pratt Band

Album NameBelieve

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Funk

Track Listing:  1.  Make it Good; 2.  Have a Good Time Y’all; 3.  In the Mood; 4.  It’s too Late; 5.  Shake off These Blues;  6.  Home to Mississippi; 7.  Easily Replaced; 8.  Monkey See, Monkey Do; 9.  Believe; 10.  Out of my Mind; 11.  Can’t Stop Now; 12.  So Bad Blues (live)

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  The Keesha Pratt Band has a sound that straddles the line between traditional and progressive blues, with big phat sax, funky keys and the amazing and soaring voice of Pratt that is part Ella Fitzgerald, part Bonnie Raitt and a whole lot of Aretha Franklin.  The title of the second track sums up this record, because when you put it on it will become obvious to all that you “came to have a good time, y’all.”  The music also has a very jazzy R&B groove, as demonstrated on “In the Mood,” “Monkey See, Monkey Do” (which reminds us of the groove on “I’m a Woman) and the title track, and the funky sound of New Orleans as demonstrated on “Shake off These Blues.”  The band likewise shows a healthy respect for blues history as they demonstrate on the delta blues sound of “Home to Mississippi,” and the swing style of “Easily Replaced.”    To quote another track, our advice on this album and the band is “Can’t Stop Now.”   This band is headed for greatness!

Recommendation:  Drop everything and be the first in line to Get it when it is released on Tuesday, May 29.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Kari Kimmel, Sharp/Shock, Mystery Art Orchestra, Nation, The Sediment Club

TGIF!  We made it through the week.  We are reviewing five new albums that are being released today, and think you will love the eclectic sounds.  After today’s reviews, we only have 35 or so more reviews to write to conclude the submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the first half of 2018.  We plan to publish the nominations on June 8.  Fans will have until June 26 to vote for their favorites, and then the winners will be announced on June  29.  Let’s get started.

Artist NameKari Kimmel

Album NameGold & Glitter

Label:  Glow Music Group

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  High; 2.  Color; 3.  Can you Feel It; 4.  Blurry; 5.  Never Alone; 6.  Ignite; 7.  Inevitable; 8.  My Obsession; 9.  Gold & Glitter; 10.  Voices (bonus track)

Publicist:  Park Life Unlimited/MAD Ink PR

Review:  Kari Kimmel is one of the most successful DIY indie artists on the planet.  To date, she has placed more than 650 of her songs in television and film, and has provided backup vocals to a diverse list of mainstream artists, including Ringo Starr, Bruce Springsteen, Dave Grohl, John Mayer, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Stevie Wonder, Pharrell, Toby Keith and Willie Nelson.  In addition, her songs have been covered by artists like The Backstreet Boys, Ke$ha, Joe Jonas, Demi Lovato and Gloria Gaynor.  Her latest effort, Gold & Glitter, continues that amazing string, including the placement of the title cut in the movie Blocked.  She has also written and/or sung the theme songs from 18 television shows, including The Fosters, which recently garnered her an ASCAP award.  There is nothing but good stuff on this album, and every song is a potential hit.  Our favorites include “High,” “Color,” “Blurry,” “Ignite,” “Inevitable,” “My Obsession,” and the title track.

Recommendation:  You owe it to yourself to Get this one TODAY!

Artist NameSharp/Shock

Album NameYouth Club

Label:  Heart & Skull

Genre:  Power Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Red Life; 2.  Superficial; 3.  Dancing all Night; 4.  Bad Lad; 5.  Thingy Pt. 1; 6.  I Don’t Want a Nuclear Family; 7.  Dead End Town; 8.  The Reds; 9.  I Just Can’t get my Head Around It; 10.  Thingy Pt. 2; 11.  Steps; 12.  Walking a Thin Line

Publicist:  Indie Publicity

Review:  Upbeat and punk don’t often go together, but in the case of Sharp/Shock, they are an apt description of their sound.  The songs are short and sweet, with powerful lyrics sung powerfully over a dynamic punk rock soundtrack.  Among the best tracks are “Red Life,” “Dancing all Night,” “I Don’t Want a Nuclear Family,” “Dead End Town,” and “Walking a Thin Line.”

Recommendation:  This one is unique enough to appeal to both punk and rock lovers.  Give it a chance.

Artist NameMystery Art Orchestra

Album Name Prismatic Dream

Label:  robojim

Genre:  Post-Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Ether; 2.  Dead Faint; 3.  Camouflage; 4.  Awake; 5.  Immaculate Youth; 6.  Lost on the Run; 7.  Dreams; 8.  Encrypted Soul; 9.  Inside; 10.  Sunday Afternoon; 11.  Silent Distance

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The sound of Mystery Art Orchestra can best be described as electronic and ambient sound mixed with a punk foundation.  At times it’s easy and mellow and others rocky and driving.  The vocals have a strange resemblance to those of the late Jim Morrison, while there is also a hint of new wave thrown in.  This is best shown on “Camouflage.”  Other songs worthy of your attention include “Awake,” “Lost on the Run,” “Encrypted Soul,” “Inside,” and “Sunday Afternoon.”

Recommendation:  These guys are worth a listen.  Check them out.

Artist NameNation

Album NameSomething Happened

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Something Happened; 2.  Baltimore Rising; 3.  Brooding Thuggery; 4.  Suddenly I Feel; 5.  Rainstorm; 6.  Computer People

Publicist:  Musigamy

Review:  With an old-time soulful voice and a modern electronic/ hip-hop accompaniment, Nation skillfully bridges the gap between soul, pop and modern electronica-based hip-hop.  His songs are instantly memorable, and would do well on American radio.  Best cuts include the title track, “Baltimore Rising,” “Brooding Thuggery,” and “Rainstorm.”

Recommendation:  If you like soulful music, then definitely give this one a test drive.

Artist NameThe Sediment Club

Album Name:  Stucco Thieves

Label:  Wharf Cat Records

Genre:  Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Half Fool Dub (interlude); 2.  The Payoff; 3.  BMP MAP; 4.  Cobalt Ruin; 5.  Stucco Thieves; 6.  Shadow, Soon; 7.  My Dungeon Shook; 8.  Hydraulic Saint; 9.  Making Spent Americans

Publicist:  Promo Juke Box

Review:  These songs have a heavy punk style with hard to understand lyrics full of angst and anger.  There might be a good message there, but it is hard to hear it from the discordant music they have chosen to play underneath.  This one is for hard-core punk fans only.

Recommendation:  Forget it.