Category: Women in Entertainment

A series of articles on leading indie women

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

Announcement of nominations for LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018 (updated)

It’s finally here.  We are so proud to announce this amazing list of nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018.  We culled through 461 CDs and EPs from around the globe, and an equal number of singles and music videos to create what we believe is one of the most diverse group of musicians in the world.

The committee votes on all nominations except the Fan Favorite, where you the reader get to choose your favorite performer.  In order to vote, you must leave a comment below.  Votes left on social media do not count.  The deadline for voting is December 28, and the winners of the awards will be announced on January 4, 2019.  Please remember that you cannot nominate an artist who has already won this award.

Without further adieu, here are the nominations:

BEST EP (Male) – Wolfe Jackson (Nobody Knows Me (Better Than You)); Trevor Douglas (Four in the Morning), Zach Callison (A Picture Perfect Hollywood Heartbreak), Ben de la Cour (The High Cost of Living Strange), Alex Riddle (Snow White)

BEST EP (Female) – Frankie Simone (Love Warrior); Mariel Austin (Runner in the Rain); Lauren Jaimes (Here to Stay), Leslie Nuss (The Album V)

BEST EP (Group) – Shelby Texas (We are Shelby, Texas); Small Million (Young Fools); Paper Gliders (Trials), Heartspank (II), PublicArt (Modernika), Neverwonder (self-titled)

BEST EP (International Artist) – Paolo Preite (An Eye on the World); Jon Mullane (Singles); Valerio Lysander (We are Like Colored Moths Towards the Sunlight); Matty T Wall (Sidewinder); Abby Zotz (Local Honey)

BEST EP (International Group) – Delta Will (Multitudes I); The Fisherman & The Sea (I Can’t Alone); CAP ON. (Be Better Than Jeff), thisquietarmy (The Body and the Earth), The Spanish Flies (Good Things Come to Those Who Wait)

BEST CD (Male) – Slim Gambill (Fake Jazz); Doran Danoff (King of Crown City); Ken Sharp (Beauty in the Backseat); Jeffrey Foucault (War on the Radio); Jordan Siwek (Sun Inside You); Hadden Sayers (Dopamine Machine)

BEST CD (Female) – Deb Ryder (Enjoy the Ride); Rachel Sage (Myopia); Tammie Shannon (All of Me); Bridget Rios Purdy (Still I Rise); Gina Sicilia (Heard the Lie); K. Michelle Dubois (Autumn)

BEST CD (Group) – The Furious Seasons (Now Residing Abroad); Broken Bellows (I, Kaleidoscope); Post Season (self-titled); Birds and Arrows (Arbitrary Magic); The Dream Logic (Liquid Sunshine)

BEST CD (International Artist) – Leeroy (Burn to Ashes), Dustin Tebbutt (Chasing Gold), Kate Reid (The Heart Already Knows), Hollie Haines (Letters to my Last Love), Zsuzsika (Start Again)

BEST CD (International Group) – Hymn for Her (Pop-n-Downers); VNV Nation (Noire); Neville & Sugary Staple (Rude Rebels); Crack of Dawn (self-titled); Norway Reloaded (My Longest Mile)

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Male) – Michael Peterson (“From Here to Eternity”), Colin Devlin (“High Point”), Kramies (“The Hill Dweller”), Everlast (“Don’t Complain”), Van Bobbi (“Kickdrum Heartbeat”), **Jason Robert/Stone Stanley (“Mr. Bell”)** Inadvertently left off list

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Female) – Alana Sweetwater (“Gotta Get Up”), Nuela Charles (“Danger”), Lauren Duski (“Costume Party”), Tiffany Young (“Teach You”), Dree Mon (“Dance Like I Want To”)

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Group) – Satellite Citi (“Collide”), Fanny Walked the Earth (“When we Need Her”), The Guess Who (“Playin on the Radio”), Honey River (“Peace, Love”), Roan Yellowthorn (“Talk About It”), JP Soars (“Southbound I-95”)

BEST VIDEO (FOR A CAUSE) – Lora Kelley (“Good Men Don’t Hurt You”), Kim Kline (“Stand Tall”), No Small Children (“I’m so Concerned”), Sofia Evangelina (“This is Your Song”), Aijia (“For You”), Various Artists (“Let’s Rise”)

BEST VIDEO (LYRIC) – Smoke Season (“Sweetest Thing”), Stephen Michael Murphy (“Why”), Post Season (“Numb to This”), Rachel Eckroth (“Call my Name”), Greg Laswell (“Royal Empress”), The Spider Accomplice (“Epilogue”)

BEST VIDEO (COVER) – CALICO the Band (“California Dreaming”), Rachel Eckroth (“Love is Lost”), PaperDolls (“God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen”)

BEST VIDEO (COLLABORATION) – Janiva Magness & Bryan Stephens (“Love is an Army”), Seawaves & Jerad Finck (“New Kids”), Free Love & Suzanne Roden (“Pushing Too Hard”/”July”), Defanico & Avanti (“You Make me Feel”), Cindy Alexander & Rusty Young (“My Favorite Artist”)

BEST VIDEO (INTERNATIONAL) – Constanza Herrero (“Packing Up”), Chesca (“Azucar”), Ziggy Alberts (“Stronger”), The Trouble Notes (“Grand Masquerade”), Peakes (“Still Life”)

BEST SINGLE (Male) – Rod Melancon (“Westgate”), Mike Edell (“Grow with You”), CJ Harper (“When we Rise”), Curtis Peoples (“Castaways”), Thomas Graff (“Make it Easy”)

BEST SINGLE (Female) – Amy Wilcox (“Bandwagon”), Chelsea Gill (“Ray-Bans”), Alexis Keegan (“Gospel”), Kris Angeles (“Stained Glass”), Christine Parker (“Where You Are”)

BEST SINGLE (Group) – SIGNY (“Water”), Honey River (“Peace, Love”), Only Bridges (“Ordinary”), Mustangs of the West (“T-Shirt from California”), The Textones (“20 Miles From Wrong”)

BEST SINGLE (INTERNATIONAL) – Vanessa Zamora (“Malas Amistades”), Liron (“Pina Colada”), Maya Payne (“Jungle”), Greta Jaime (“Computer Games”), Carlo & the Montes (“Nobody’s Fool”)

BEST SINGLE (HOLIDAY) – PaperDolls (“God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen”), Tiffany Young (“Peppermint”), Jack Tempchin (“Jesus and Mohammed”), Mustangs of the West (“Everybody Wants Peace on Earth”)

BEST BLUES ARTIST – Gina Sicilia, Brigette Rios Purdy, Hadden Sayers, Katie Knipp, Kirk Fletcher

BEST BLUES BAND – Detroit Rebellion, Black Cat Road, Michelle D’Amour and the Love Dealers, Keith Stone and Red Gravy, JP Soars

BEST BLUES (TRADITIONAL) ARTIST – Tammie Shannon, Tom Hambridge, Wily Bo Walker, Lawrence Lebo, Deb Ryder, Jonathon Long

BEST BLUES (TRADITIONAL) BAND – Peter V Blues Train, Delta Moon, Karen Lawrence and Blue by Nature, Matheus Matthews, Julianne Q and the Howl

BEST BLUEGRASS ARTIST/BAND – Roland White, Tellico

BEST CHILDREN’S ALBUM – Ruth and Emilia (The Spaceship That Fell in my Backyard)

BEST COMEBACK ARTIST – Mustangs of the West, The Textones, Frank Bey, Buddy Guy

BEST COMEDY ALBUM – Brad Wenzel (Sweet Nothings)

BEST COMPILATION ALBUM – Come See About Me (IBMA Trust Fund), A Blue Élan Christmas (various Blue Élan Records artists)

BEST COUNTRY ARTIST – Dennis Duff, Hilary Scott, Corinne Cook, Stephanie Urbina Jones, Lauren Jaimes

BEST COUNTRY BAND – Robbie Fulks & Linda Gail Lewis, The Bob Peek Thing, Shelby Texas

BEST EDM/DANCE ARTIST/BAND – Sterling Infinity, Risky Motion, Andrew Bayer, United Ghosts, Lavender Fields, TNEO

BEST FOLK ARTIST – Paul Givant, Lauren Balthrop, Wolfe Jackson, Jason Erie, Ben Bostick

BEST FOLK BAND –   The Furious Seasons, The Skiffle Players, Max Caddy, New London Fire, Lay Low Moon

BEST HARD ROCK/METAL ARTIST/BAND – Rebel Rampage, YYNOT, Code Red Riot, Cosmogyral, Lana Blac

BEST HIP-HOP/RAP ARTIST/BAND – Everlast

BEST HOLIDAY ALBUM – The Humming Bards (Holy Common Grounds); Redhead Express/PaperDolls (Christmastime); Mindi Abair and the Boneshakers (All I Got for Christmas is the Blues); Paul Cardall (Christmas)

BEST INTERNATIONAL ARTIST – Solomon Grey, Dave Wells, Jon Mullane, Abby Zotz, Mac Murray

BEST INTERNATIONAL BAND – Monsta X, Ace of Wands, Koenix, Crack of Dawn, Norway Reloaded

BEST INSTRUMENTAL ARTIST/BAND – Andrew Abaria, Rob McAllister/Music Within, Daniel Aged, Lucky 757, Tauk

BEST JAZZ ARTIST – Mariel Austin, Walt Weiskopf, Calvin Arsenia, Slim Gambill, Leo James Conroy

BEST JAZZ BAND – CeCe Teneal and Soul Kamotion, Strunz & Farah, Frank Gambale Soulmine, S U M, Mark Winkler and Cheryl Bentyne

BEST LATIN ARTIST/BAND – Lauren Henderson, De’Anza, The Chamanas. Constanza Herrero

BEST LIVE ALBUM – Shari Puorto (Live at Bogie’s), Sonia Leigh (Live in London), John McLaughlin & Jimmy Herring (Live in San Francisco), Jocelyn Michelle (Live at Viva Cantina), Karen Lawrence & Blue by Nature (Best of Live)

BEST POP ARTIST – Greg Laswell, Rachel Sage, Trevor Douglas, Ken Sharp, Jordan Siwek

BEST POP BAND – Small Million, Broken Bellows, My Brothers and I, Baby Jay, Roan Yellowthorn

BEST POP/ROCK ARTIST/BAND – Daniel Ellsworth & The Great Lakes, The Persian Leaps, Coyote Choir, Teddy and the Love Gang, KT Tunstall

BEST PUNK ARTIST/BAND – Subterfuge, Castle Black, A Very Special Episode, Taco Mouth, Post Season

BEST R&B/SOUL ARTIST – Sara Marie Barron, Candace Devine, Dave Keller, Nuela Charles, Doran Danoff

BEST R&B/SOUL BAND – Down North, DaM-FunK, The Dream Logic, Diane Durrett & Soul Suga

BEST ALT ROCK ARTIST – Kayla Starr, Trevor James, Ruby Rose Fox, Scott Shifflett, Polly Panic

BEST ALT ROCK BAND – Ascent, Farewood, Static and Surrender, Birds and Arrows, The Upstart Crows

BEST ROCK ARTIST – Guilande, Eric McFadden, K. Michelle DuBois

BEST ROCK BAND – Fellow Robot, Tokyo Police Club, Animal Waves, The Guess Who, Band of Silver

BEST REGGAE ARTIST/BAND – Phony Ppl, Sean Paul, Megative

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA ARTIST – Ian Crawford, Roger Len Smith, Lora Kelley, Andy Sydow, Jeffrey Foucault

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA BAND – mmhmm, No Dry County, Mapache, The Textones, Lil’ Red & The Rooster

BEST SINGER-SONGWRITER – Cynthia Brando, Peggy James, Kris Angelis, Gaelynn Lea, Dave Tamkin, Paul McDonald

BEST SOUTHERN ROCK ARTIST/BAND – Sunshine Riot, Moonshine Saints

MOST UNIQUE ARTIST/BAND – Grave Danger, Bella Bartok

RISING STAR – Shaunt Avakian, Hayley Lynn, Sofia Evangelina, CH3LS, Sarra, Bella Rios

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten amazing videos released in November 2018

We are so happy to have finally finished preparing the list of nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards, and they will be announced tomorrow morning at 9 a.m.  While you wait, here are ten amazing videos that were not chosen for Monday Mashup features, but which we thought deserved recognition.

We start things off with a beautiful video about reconciliation.  We fully agree with the sentiments expressed in the song “Right Where You Are” by BlissBliss.

Next up is an amazingly fun video about the end of the world, as visualized for “Lazer Queen” by I Love You Honey Bunny.  They are a Czech band and we love their vision.

Our third single is one of the most beautiful protest songs we have ever heard.  Stephen Michael Murphy and InfiniteTolerance.com have joined forces with General Steel to give us the reggae sound of “African Mamas.”  Watch for the Bob Marley cameo at the end.  #StopInjustice

Video number four is another beautiful collaboration, this time between D’Sound and Armi Millare on the single “Lykkelig.”  This one is the perfect segue and should keep the music grooving.

Our next video is a tongue-in-cheek look at the powerful “Alexa” and the hazards of online purchasing.  Laugh along with Beans on Toast but take the sentiment behind the video as seriously as he does.

Our sixth video features the Janis Joplin-like vocals of Ninet on her powerful song “Self Destructive Mind.”  This one is packed with food for thought.

Reason/Define is an all-female post-hardcore band that puts the rock in rock and roll.  Their latest video is a powerful statement about “Pointing Fingers,” and we think you need to pay attention.  This band is definitely going on our radar.

Our eighth video has stunning cinematography and the sweet voice of Kiyomi Hawley for her single “Meet you There.”  We love the feelings this song generates, and think it is a perfect song for this time of the year.

Our next video is about “Revenge” and is from Static Noize, a  hip-hop duo from the small Western Australian area of Burundi.  Check out the beat on this one.

Our final video this month is from LA Music Critic Award-winning prog-rock band Orissa.  Check out this live performance of their song “Blue Communion,” and check out those dancers.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Great Singles Women in Entertainment

Ten great singles released in November 2018

Well, it’s been a busy week preparing the list of nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards, which will be announced tomorrow morning at 9 a.m.  While you wait, here are ten great singles that were not chosen for Monday Mashup features, but which we thought deserved recognition.

First up is the second single from Noctorum, featuring Marty Wilson-Piper, the former lead singer of The Church.  The single is a soft rocker that is the perfect sound for your early morning music fix and is called “Piccadilly Circus in the Rain.”  Let us know what you think.

Next up is “Infinite Swim,” which has a decidedly 80’s retro sound, with big beats and cool vocals, and comes to us courtesy of the Irish band All Tvvins.  We can’t wait to hear and review the rest of the album when it is released next year.

For our next single, we travel to Amsterdam for the latest from the Moon Tapes.  If there was an award for the strangest song title, they would win it hands down.  Check out the noir-pop sound of “Tonight I’ll Write the Saddest Lines.”

From noir-pop we return to rock-n-roll, with the latest offering from Jon Tessier, “Freak I Need.”  This one will put some 70’s rock flavor into your day.

At single number five is K-Pop phenom Monsta X, who has released their first all-English song, “Shoot Out.”  We reviewed their album last week, and were impressed by the multiple genres these lads have mastered, and look forward to what comes next.  Get down to this one.

We kick off the second five singles with this refreshing country song from form The Voice contestant, Lauren Duski.  This one is a future hit, and it definitely makes our “Heart Hurt Good.”

Single number seven is from an iconic reggae singer who has returned with a fun, upbeat tune that will get you ready for summer in the middle of winter.  Check out “Use Me” from Shaggy.

For our next single, we go from reggae to the R&B/Pop sound of Australian YouTube sensation Arlene Zelina.  We love the smooth sound of “Dream of Me” and think you will too.

Single number nine features another amazing female voice with the sultry sound of Ariel Gold.  This one has the perfect driving drum beat, truly amazing vocals and an upbeat song the belies its title, “Blue.”  Let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/bigmanagement/ariel-gold-blue/s-CTDv7

We close out this edition of Ten Great Singles with a beautiful collaborative effort, courtesy of our friends at the Durango Songwriters Expo.  The song was written by Scott Krippayne and Jeff Peabody for the late Neal E. Boyd, winner of America’s Got Talent in 2008.  The orchestration was recorded and the song was mixed and mastered by Brandon K. Guttenfelder.  We think it is the perfect holiday song.  Enjoy “Not so Silent Night.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – Lauren Jaimes, del-Toros, Jason Erie, The Dream Logic, Hollie Haines

This is our final Get it or Forget it of the current LA Music Critic Awards cycle, and it has been a wild ride over the past six months.  We wish we could give awards to every one of them, but that is not possible, so we will continue to sort through them before announcing the nominations on December 7.  We hope you have enjoyed checking them out as much as we have enjoyed reviewing them.

Artist Name:  Lauren Jaimes

Album Name:  Here to Stay

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Worn out Memory; 2.  Song to Pa; 3.  Leave the Light On; 4.  Need You More; 5.  Real Bad Habit; 6.  Cherry Pie

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Country radio has a new sweetheart in the music of Lauren Jaimes, who combines the best of Kacey Musgraves, Miranda Lambert and Kelsea Ballerini.  The songs come from the heart, and that passion comes through loud and clear, especially on the very personal “Song to Pa.”  We love every track on this EP, and think it is one of the very best of 2018.  “Leave the Light On” is a hit, and deserves serious rotations now.  We love her vocals and these well-written songs, and intend to put them on repeat.

Recommendation:  Go.  Get.  This.

Artist Name:  del-Toros

Album Name:  Ten Stories High

Label:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Genre:  Alt Surf-rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t Wipe; 2.  Octowave; 3.  End of the World; 4.  Halloween Theme; 5.  21-74 (ft Bertus Borgers); 6.  Gingerchord; 7.  SoCal Killings; 8.  King of the Rockettool (ft Peter te Bos); 9.  Loose Lips; 10.  Theme for Great Cities

Publicist:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Review:  The Netherlands continues to impress with another one of their bands.  The music of del-Toros is sort of like Dick Dale on speed, with a harder edge to the signature surf rock sound.  The album contains nine instrumental tracks, with the only vocals coming from Peter te Bos (Claw Boys Claw) on the track “King of the Rockettool.”  We really love their interpretation of the “Halloween Theme.”  This one is a keeper.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Jason Erie

Album Name:  The Art of Letting Go

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Talking to Chairs; 2.  Conversation with a Bottle; 3.  Lorelai; 4.  Black Lung; 5.  Gold Rush; 6.  The Art of Letting Go; 7.  Some Kind of Way

Publicist:  Brennan Management

Review:  Jason Erie reveals a lot about his life in this seven-song collection of modern-day folk songs.  He talks about growing up in a broken home, watching his mother suffer from alcohol addiction and his father give everything to his job, and having to grow up faster than normal.  While not so much protest songs, these tunes are reminiscent of the legacy of Woody Guthrie with a little bit of Dolly Parton wit and wisdom.   We really love the rocking sound of “Conversation with a Bottle,” as well as the haunting vocal duet and tantalizing fiddle on “Gold Rush.”  The final track “Some Kind of Way” has a John Mellencamp feel that would make it a great radio single.

Recommendation:  This one will haunt you if you don’t Get it now.  Jump on this train before it leaves the station.

Artist Name:  The Dream Logic

Album Name:  Liquid Sunshine

Label:  Chaos Music

Genre:  Jam/Blues Fusion

Track Listing:  1.  Fakes and Fools; 2.  Without You; 3.  The Spider; 4.  I’m Gonna Take it From You; 5.  Queen of Hearts; 6.  Liquid Sunshine; 7.  I’m Afraid to Speak; 8.  A Beautiful Thrill; 9.  The Kiss Off; 10.  Looking Into the Future; 11.  Kinda You; 12.  You Wrecked Me; 13.  Disconnected

Publicist:  Two Sheps That Pass

Review:  NYC gives us yet another amazing jam band with the latest offering from Charles Compo, Camille Gainer and Jerry Brooks, collectively known as The Dream Logic.  Their brand of rock and roll fuses elements of jam, funk, acid jazz and blues, along with a touch of 60s soul.  Gainer’s drums fit seamlessly with Brooks’ funky bass beat to lay the perfect foundation for multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Compo to complete.  This is the perfect soundtrack for every day, with a funky groove that is uniquely theirs.  You will definitely want to put this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, and Get this one NOW!

Artist Name:  Hollie Haines

Album Name:  Letters to my Last Love

Label:  Championed by 6 Music

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Except for You; 2.  Like I Used To; 3.  All You Did; 4.  Since You’ve Been Gone; 5.  I Got Through, Babe; 6.  Better; 7.  Mine

Publicist:  Lander PR

Review:  With a vocal style reminiscent of Enya, Hollie Haines brings a haunting and electrifying sound to her dreamy folk songs.  Her contemporary touch is refreshing, making this album perfect for chill time or when you just want to reflect on life.  The chamber orchestration adds to this feeling of well-being that comes through crystal clear, despite the sometimes melancholy lyrics.  These are songs that are instantly memorable, and will haunt you like few other artists’ songs can.  The vocal harmonies on “Since You’ve Been Gone” are heavenly, and add to the mystique of the song.  We also love the tongue-in-cheek tribute to Sonny and Cher in her song “I Got Through, Babe.”

Recommendation:  We highly recommend this one.  Go Get it!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Hadden Sayers, Popa Chubby, Mariel Austin, Paper Gliders, The RG’s

We started sorting through the nearly 500 submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018 yesterday.  There were so many great albums submitted it is going to be a very difficult job for our committee to choose the nominations, but we think you will be happy with our choices.  Start thinking about your fan favorite because the voting will open on Friday and run for three weeks.  The winners will be announced on January 4.  In the meantime, we have five more new releases to share, so here we go.

   

Artist Name:  Hadden Sayers

Album Name:  Dopamine Machine/Acoustic Dopamine

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Unsatisfied; 2.  I Feel Love; 3.  Hit the Road; 4.  Blood Red Coupe DeVille; 5.  Wanting Wanting; 6.  Good Good Girl; 7.  Learning to Disappear; 8.  Peppermint Patty; 9.  Dopamine Machine; 10.  Gravity; 11.  Backbreaker

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  Hadden Sayers is one of the hardest rocking blues guitarist in the world.  Even Billy Gibbons looks up to him.  This time around not only has he released a killer album in Dopamine Machine, but he has also recorded a companion acoustic album of the same songs, with nothing but the sweet voice of Ruthie Foster to help him.  This masterpiece is definitely one of the best blues rock albums we have ever had the privilege of reviewing.  We can’t choose the best tracks because all 11 of them are smoking hot, especially the lead track “Unsatisfied” and the smooth blues sound of “Blood Red Coupe DeVille.”  This album needs to be heard again and again.

Recommendation:  Do whatever it takes to Get both of these albums.  They deserve the highest place in your musical collection.

Artist Name:  Popa Chubby

Album Name:  Prime Cuts (The Very Best of the Beast From the East)

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Life is a Beat Down; 2.  Angel on my Shoulder; 3.  Hey Joe; 4.  Stoop Down Baby; 5.  Sweet Goodness of Love and Beer; 6.  San Catri; 7.  Caffeine and Nicotine; 8.  Grown Man Crying Blues; 9.  Go Fuck Yourself (ft Theodora Horowitz); 10.  Hallelujah; 11.  Somebody let the Devil Out; 12.  I Can’t see the Light of Day; 13.  Dirty Lie; 14.  Daddy Played the Guitar; 15.  There on Christmas

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  NYC-based Popa Chubby is a beast on the blues guitar, and in this collection he has chosen his favorite tracks from his 30 year career, including an incredible cover of the Leonard Cohen classic, “Hallelujah.”  He also includes a previously unreleased political rant appropriately called “Go Fuck Yourself,”  which features his daughter on violin, as well as a holiday track, “There on Christmas.”  This is traditional blues at its best, and will appeal to every true blues lover.  As he says in “Angel on my Shoulder,” “spread your wings and fly.”

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, then this is a must-have for your collection.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  Mariel Austin

Album Name:  Runner in the Rain

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  A Rough, Unsorted Compiling of Ways not to Exist; 2.  Night Dreamer; 3.  Mirrorshift; 4.  One-way Journey Home; 5.  Runner in the Rain

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Up and coming jazz trombonist Mariel Austin is also a producer, arranger and composer, and she has created this short but sweet five-song masterpiece especially for big band as an introduction of sorts.  On her debut EP, she shows why she is an award winning jazz musician, and provides a beautiful soundtrack for your everyday life.  This is the perfect album to introduce your friends to the beauty of jazz.

Recommendation:  Definitely add this one to your list.

Artist Name:  Paper Gliders

Album Name:  Trials

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  This Magazine Scene; 2.  Petri Dish; 3.  Birthday Candles

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  With harmonies galore and a brilliant progressive pop sound, Houston’s own Paper Gliders make beautiful music together.  This all-too-short three-song EP gives us just a taste of their brilliance, and whets our appetite for their first full-length album.  The guitars are dreamy as are the vocals, and the well-crafted songs are truly radio friendly.  We think they have a great future in store and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Recommendation:  Definitely take a chance on this band.  They are truly worthy of future stardom.

Artist Name:  The RG’s

Album Name:  The Cricket Sound

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bored Ass Tony; 2.  Stevie, the guy who Didn’t pay Us; 3.  The Cricket Sound; 4.  Dirty Allan; 5.  All Day; 6.  Keep Your Secrets; 7.  Dead Inside; 8.  My Friend Ed; 9.  Smack Your Neighbor

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  The RG’s are a Belgian band that brings the rock in the style of Queens of the Stone Age, Alice in Chains and Rival Sons.  Although the music has a hard edge, it is melodic, much like Metallica.  The vocals stand-out and are easily understandable,  contrary to the usual screaming of most hard rock bands.  Much like Taylor Swift, these songs are written about their real-life encounters with people, so don’t piss them off or you might become a song in their catalog, like “Stevie, the Guy Who Didn’t Pay Us.”

Recommendation:  If you like your rock on the hard side, then definitely check out this band.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 44

Happy December!  It was a good weekend for our favorite teams, as Miami knocked off their divisional rivals the Bills, and our Lady Griz won the annual Lady Griz Classic with a come-from-behind victory over UC Davis.  This is going to be a busy week with 10 albums to review, Ten Amazing Videos and Ten Great Singles for November and the announcement of the nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018.  Let’s get started.

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS SUPPORTS ALLIANCE FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS

Once again Blue Élan Records is supporting the Alliance for Children’s Rights with the release of their annual Christmas collection.  This year’s offering includes last year’s LA Music Critic Award winning song, “Shine Down on Us,” as well as the latest from The Mustangs of the West, “Everybody Wants Peace on Earth.”  Please support this worthy cause by  streaming it on Spotify or purchase it online

REBELLE ROAD RECORDS TO RELEASE NEW ALICE WALLACE ALBUM

With the demise of California Country Records, a new player has stepped in to continue their legacy.  Rebelle Road Records will release the new Alice Wallace album, Into the Blue, in early January 2019.  Pre-sale has begun, and you can get a sneak peak of the title track, courtesy of The Bluegrass Situation.  This one is gonna be amazing.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is an amazing collaboration between Cheat Codes and Kim Petras.  We love the smooth sound of this truly radio friendly track, “Feeling of Falling,” and think you will love it too.  Enjoy this great start to your week.

Our second single is a special Christmas tune from the amazing Tiffany Young.  We love the smooth soul/R&B sound and think you will love “Peppermint” as much as we do.

Single number three proves disco is not dead, at least not in Amsterdam.  Here’s the latest from Sweetwood, the latest project from collective Voice Calling Radio.  Here’s “One of These Days.”

Next up is the second single from the forthcoming album by TNEO (The New Electronic Orchestra).  Here’s “Look Into the Light.”  We think this one will get you on your feet.  It has a great acoustic guitar, amazing vocals and a steady beat perfect for dancing.

Our final single today is one of the songs from A Blue Élan Christmas, written by multiple Grammy winning artist Jack Tempchin, and featuring Rusty Young of Poco and Jesse Dayton, two of his Blue Élan labelmates.  Check out “Jesus and Mohammed.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Keeping the Christmas spirit going is the video for the amazing tune, “Everybody Wants Peace on Earth” from the newly resurrected Mustangs of the West.  We think you will love the down-home feel of this video, written by lead singer Suzanna Spring.  Happy holidays!

Our next video is a beautiful collection of scenes from Nashville, along with an amazing instrumental cover of the traditional Christmas hymn, “Joy to the World.”  Let the beauty of this song warm your house during your holiday parties.  Thanks Eric Tingstad for this amazing rendition.

Here’s a rare treat, a video of the first live performance of the song “Breaking Down” by Hamish Anderson.  It was filmed at The Belly Up, an indie music venue located in Solana Beach, California.  It should give you a rocking start to this Monday.

Next is a fun video of a great dance tune “Kickdrum Heartbeat” by Van Bobbi.  This one combines elements of R&B, pop, funk and Afro-beat, and “checks all the boxes” for a great song.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final video this week is from Peakes, who we have previously featured in this column.  We love the majestic sound and breathtaking and visually stimulating presentation of their song “Still Life.”

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Band of Silver, Sci-Fi Romance, Lana Blac, Linda Marie Fischer, WHOLE

Happy hump day!  Chugging through these final 25 submissions for this award cycle, and anxious to announce the nominations.  Don’t miss the announcement on December 7.  In the meantime, here are five more artists to check out.

Artist Name:  Band of Silver

Album Name:  In Space!

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Streetlight; 2.  World Domination; 3.  I Follow You; 4.  Welcome to Hollywood; 5.  El Magnifico; 6.  Money; 7.  Space

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  We introduced you to this band a couple of weeks ago when we featured the music video for their first single, “World Domination.”  There’s just something special about siblings and music, and Band of Silver has it in droves.  They are on a mission to save rock and roll, and we think they will be successful.  Taking a page out of the 80s pop/rock soundtrack, they deliver powerful upbeat songs that not only entertain but also educate with timely lyrical content and amazing music.  Lead singer Avery has a powerful voice that meshes perfectly with the amazing sound of her siblings’ musical accompaniment.  This one is a winner.

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one – it belongs on repeat!

Artist Name:  Sci-Fi Romance

Album Name:  Dreamers & Runaways

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt-Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Dreamers & Runaways; 2.  Long Ways Left; 3.  A Beautiful Prison; 4.  The War in Me; 5.  Voices; 6.  The Fight; 7.  Gone Wrong; 8.  Wooden Jesus; 9.  Sunrise; 10.  A Hymn for the  Invisible

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  Critics have compared Sci-Fi Romance to bands like The Decemberists, but we think they stand alone in their uniqueness.  Mixing elements of folk, Americana, punk and metal, they have forged a new blend of alt-folk affectionately known as Steamfolk.  Composed of Vance Kotrla on guitar and vocals, Mr. Mike on drums and Jody Stark on cello, they give us intellectual music with a memorable musical soundtrack.  These songs need multiple listens to capture all the nuances of the lyrics and the intricacies of musical brilliance, but it will be time well spent.  The lyrics were heavily influenced by the 2016 election cycle, and are powerful reminders that we don’t have to sit idly by and watch the destruction of what’s important to us.

Recommendation:  If you like amazing music and intelligent lyrics, this is the album for you – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Lana Blac

Album Name:  Nocturnal

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Dark Rock/Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Suck you In; 2.  Pick Your Poison; 3.  Recipe for Disaster; 4.  The Game; 5.  In the Darkness; 6.  Blac Ice; 7.  Soul Stalker; 8.  Crave

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Lana Blac is a self-confessed vampire who has been inspired by the likes of In This Moment, Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie and Evanescence.  While musically she is on par with her influences, she doesn’t quite have the powerful voice of either Maria Brink or Amy Lee, although she definitely has the gothic look down.  She has created some amazingly dark music, and if she converts that into an incredible live show, then she definitely has a chance in this genre.  We think her debut album is a worthy effort, but we would like to see what comes next before jumping on this train.

Recommendation:  Worthy of checking out.

Artist Name:  Linda Marie Fischer

Album Name:  Arc of Love

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Adult Contemporary Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Blasted, Bombed, Being in Love; 2.  Racing to the Moon; 3.  Love in the Ages; 4.  Map of Ice; 5.  Blue in the Heart; 6.  Trails in my Life; 7.  Locking us Forever; 8.  Slow, Slow, Quick, Quick!; 9.  Little Words; 10.  Thinness of the Air; 11.  Holiday Wishes; 12.  Arc of Love (teaser track/video)

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Bursting on the scene in her later years, much like Bonnie Raitt, this debut album from Linda Marie Fischer blends elements of jazz, blues, R&B and pop into an easy listening, adult contemporary format that is both relaxing and comforting.  These songs reflect on the universal truth of love and all its phases, and the gentle musical accompaniment helps the words sink in.  Fischer has picked the proper format for his well-crafted songs, which should lead her to a successful career.  We think this is a great start, and look forward to what comes next.

Recommendation:  Truly worthy of your attention, especially if you like the music of Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Vanessa Carlton or Barbra Streisand.

Artist Name:  WHOLE

Album Name:  Bias

Label:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Genre:  Indie/Post-punk

Track Listing:  1.  Lust/Terror; 2.  Get Away; 3.  Tides Made by our Hands; 4.  What Scares You; 5.  Bombs Will Drop; 6.  Evenwicht; 7.  Tongue to Machine; 8.  Berghain; 9.  Amsterdam

Publicist:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Review:  German band WHOLE brings a new take to post-punk with their electrifying performance on Bias.  They combine elements of multiple genres, fastened together with Bono-esque vocals, dreamy guitar riffs, synthwave electronics and a driving beat that will keep you interested and invested in their sound.  They have an 80s retro/ new wave sound obviously inspired by the likes of Depeche Mode and The Cure, demonstrated to perfection on “Tides Made by Our Hands.”

Recommendation:  This one is binge-worthy.  Get it and enjoy.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – VNV Nation, Big Lonely, Younger Then, Phony Ppl, Nuela Charles

Happy Giving Tuesday.  If you are so inclined, there are a number of worthy charities out there that need your support.  We have posted links to several on our Facebook pages, and encourage you to help others at this time of the year.  To sweeten the deal, we have five more great artists for you to check out as we wind down submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018:

Artist Name:  VNV Nation

Album Name:  Noir

Label:  Metropolis Records

Genre:  Alternative/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  A Million; 2.  Armour; 3.  God of All; 4.  Nocturne No. 7; 5.  Collide; 6.  Wonders; 7.  Immersed; 8.  Lights go Out; 9.  Guiding; 10.  When is the Future; 11.  Only Satellites; 12.  Requiem for Wires; 13.  All our Sins

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  If ever there was an album that was custom-built for placement opportunities in film and television, this is it.  The sound is majestic, sweeping and cinematic, with a driving dance beat that would easily also make a great source for house music DJs.  This one takes off from the first notes of “A Million” and never lets up, building to a stunning conclusion.  There is obvious influence from The Cure, especially on “God of All.”  This album truly delivers a great listen from start to finish.  We also love the piano instrumental “Nocturne No. 7,” and the string instrumental “Guiding,” which are a total change of pace from the rest of the album.  We wish them well on their North American tour.

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – Get this one!

Artist Name:  Big Lonely

Album Name:  Bad Magic

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Just Lose; 2.  Butter on Ice; 3.  Dreamboat; 4.  A Place I’ve Never Been To; 5.  Don’t Fool me Twice; 6.  All at Once; 7.  Ticket; 8.  Up my Sleeve; 9.  Bad Magic

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Canadian band Big Lonely incorporates some Southern Rock guitar into their indie rock style to create memorable music with a retro vibe.  Their music could easily work on American Top 40 and college radio, and we bet their live show is just as dynamic.  “Dreamboat” has a Roy Orbison vibe  You’ll want to listen to this one from start to finish, cause there are no weak tracks.  Enjoy the reflective vibe.

Recommendation:  A definite add to your collection – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Younger Then

Album Name:  Bad Life

Label:  Standby Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  All in All; 2.  Lonely Holy; 3.  California King; 4.  Sarah Told Them; 5.  Cherry Glaze; 6.  Sweetest; 7.  Sundazed; 8.  Bad Life; 9.  Luna; 10.  Wishing Tree; 11.  Seasick

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:   With a sound somewhere between Kings of Leon and U2, Younger Then burst forth from their humble Buffalo to take on the world of indie rock, and they truly have the goods to make a lasting impression.  They have already gained a healthy reputation for their live shows, and now they have a CD that captures that energy and style and showcases it to the rest of the world.  There is so much good stuff on this 11-song album that everyone should be able to find a favorite.  For us, we love them all, and will give this quite a few listens from start to finish.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Phony Ppl

Album Name: mō’zā-ik.

Label:  300 Entertainment

Genre:  Soul/Funk/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Way too Far; 2.  Once you say Hello; 3.  Something About you Love; 4.  Cookie Crumble; 5.  The Colours; 6.  One Man Band; 7.  Think You’re Mine; 8.  Move her Mind; 9.  Before you get a Boyfriend; 10.  Either Way; 11.  On Everything I Love

Publicist:  No Big Deal PR

Review:  Phony Ppl is already receiving critical praise from folks like NPR Music, and it quickly becomes obvious that this band cannot be placed in a box according to genre.  Their music encompasses soul, funk, R&B, jazz, rap, and more, with incredible harmonies, and a seamless chemistry that makes it sound more like a jam session than a scripted song.  In truth, the songwriting could use some work, as stretching out the lyrics makes them become obnoxious at times and takes away from the beauty of the music.   Best tracks include “Cookie Crumble,” “Move Her Mind,” their first single/video “Before you Get a Boyfriend,” “Either Way” and “On Everything I Love.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Nuela Charles

Album Name:  Distant Danger

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alternative/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Troublemaker; 2.  Danger; 3.  Forecast; 4.  Do it Right; 5.  Sugar; 6.  March On

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  We featured her video for “Danger” in our Ten Amazing Videos of October, and the same single in one of our Monday Mashup articles in September.   Believe us when we tell you this lady has the goods to rule the soul/R&B charts and radio.  We simply love her sense of style, her songwriting and her incredible voice, which are truly personified in her song “Danger.”  All six songs are great and this artist deserves a spot on your repeat button.  We can’t wait to hear what comes next, as she has earned a permanent place in our hearts.

Recommendation:  Run don’t walk and Get this one Today!

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 43

Happy Cyber Monday – are you done with your shopping?  We’ve been busy reviewing music and can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel.  Taking a break from that to bring you some new singles and videos, so enjoy them.

AMIE MIRELLO LAUNCHES FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN

You might have seen her on the recent Sugarland tour, singing back up for Jennifer Nettles.  We have known her for years, and love her artistic integrity and style.  Amie Mirello has launched a Go Fund Me campaign to record a new solo EP, and we couldn’t be happier.  If you would like to help her, please click on the link and let’s make it happen.  If you’re in Nashville, catch her at The Bluebird Cafe with Heidi Newfield, former lead singer of Trick Pony, on November 30 at 6:30 p.m.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week accurately reflects the way a lot of people feel at this time of year.  Here is the latest from the sensational Shannon Hurley, who swears she’s “Lost My Mind.”  Once again she has nailed it.

Next up is an amazing roots tune from Gone Gone Beyond.  The harmonies will blow you away.  We also think this song is perfectly named,  Check out “You Can’t Go Wrong.”

Our third single is especially perfect after a great day of football.  We love the upbeat pop sound of Imbide, and love their new single, “Touchdown.”

Our fourth single is from the 15-year old phenom Bella Rios, whose unbelievable vocals shine in her latest single, “Breathe Again.”  We think this young lady is going to be a huge star, possibly the next Kelly Clarkson.

https://soundcloud.com/big-management-253743683/bella-rios-breathe-again/s-XDBLR

Our final single this week is an instant holiday classic from blues vixen Brigette Rios Purdy.  We think you’ll fall in love with it as well.  Here’s “I’m Your Holiday Baby.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video this week is the perfect segue from singles to videos.  Here’s the debut video from the PaperDolls, the latest project from the four incredible sisters who brought you the Redhead Express.  Here is their take on the classic Christmas song, “God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen.”  We really love the Celtic feel, thanks to Alisa‘s incredible fiddle.

If you read our blog on Monday, then you got a sneak peak of the new video from Portland’s Hayley Lynn.  Unfortunately, we jumped the gun and the video won’t be released until December 7.  We’ll have it in our Monday Mashup article on December 10.  Until then, here’s some great knowledge as indie folk band No Sailor tells us about the “21 Rules.”  Sounds like good advice.

Our third video features another amazing young performer.  This one has an anti-bullying theme, but encourages our young people to make their mark and make their dreams come true.  Check out this powerful video from Sofia Evangelina for her song, “This is Your Song (We are the Kids of the World).”

Our fourth video is from an artist we reviewed a couple of weeks ago.  Luiz Bruno shares “The Ballad of Cool Lane,” and it looks like a great place to visit.  Let us know what you think.

We close out this week’s Monday Mashup with this hard-hitting rock song by LA’s own Love Ghost.  Check out this stunning video for their song “Nowhere.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – The Dream Eaters, Hymn for Her, Frankie Crea, Rebel Rampage, Teachers with Guns

Hope you all survived Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.  We were swamped at work, doing almost double the sales from the previous year.  Time to put that behind us and check out five more recent releases.

Artist Name:   The Dream Eaters

Album Name:   Pagan Love

Label:   Song Dynasty

Genre:   Dream Pop/Shoegaze

Track Listing:   1.  Crucifix; 2.  Mockingbird; 3.  Pagan Love; 4.  Bats in the Belfry; 5.  One of the Gods; 6.  Tequila River; 7.  Caligula; 8.  Moonlight on Gowanus; 9.  Sun Clouds

Publicist:   Self-promoted

Review:   We reviewed their first album We are a Curse back in April 2017, and their new one is definitely worth the wait.  They hit the ground running on “Crucifix,” and never let up, delivering the perfect soundtrack for fans of gothic-themed music.  Although the lyrical content is dark, the music is delivered in an upbeat style and feel that is still enjoyable.  This music would be perfect for placement in the myriad of supernatural-based television shows currently on the schedule, as well as future horror films.  The harmonies are incredible, and we love every song on this album.  We are proud to highly recommend this band for all true music lovers.

Recommendation:   You simply must Get this one!

Artist Name:   Hymn for Her

Album Name:   Pop-n-Downers

Label:   Rhythm Bomb Records

Genre:   Roots/Folk

Track Listing:   1.  Blue Balloons; 2.  Human Condition; 3.  November; 4.  Scoop; 5.  Roses; 6.  Fireflies; 7.  Shallow Graves; 8.  Yard Sale; 9.  Dingle Town; 10.  First Clown on the Moon; 11.  Auf Wiedersehen

Publicist:   Rockstar Records

Review:   Modern day hippies Lucy Tight and Wayne Waxing live in their 1961 Airstream trailer and travel all around the US and Europe, creating incredible folk songs with a roots vibe.  Their instrumentation, while simple, is perfect for their music, allowing Tight’s amazing vocals to rise above it all.  She is by far one of the best pure vocalists we have reviewed this year, and Waxing provides the perfect harmonies.  There isn’t a weak track on the album, so put it on repeat and enjoy it over and over again.

Recommendation:   Run out and Get this one.

Artist Name:   Frankie Crea

Album Name:   Countless Days

Label:   A&R Records

Genre:   Indie Rock

Track Listing:   1.  Countless Days; 2.  Dream; 3.  Little Miss Fear; 4.  So Long . . .; 5.  Mary; 6.  Until we Meet Again

Publicist:   The A&R Department

Review:  We featured his first single “Dream” in our Monday Mashup column last month, and think that the rest of the EP is just as outstanding, especially the title track.  Frankie Crea is from Western Australia, and we think he would do well on American radio.  His music is better than most of our Top 40 artists, and we love his retro classic rock sound, part Blue Oyster Cult, part Red Hot Chili Peppers.  This one is a definite keeper.  We only wish there were more than six tracks!

Recommendation:  Go Get it now!

Artist Name:  Rebel Rampage

Album Name:  Divided we Fall

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Hymn to Freedom; 2.  Resistance March; 3.  Not the Enemy; 4.  Red Star (ft Angelo Moore); 5.  Immigration Man; 6.  Women in White; 7.  I am the Power (ft Emily Armstrong); 8.  Sick of Dying; 9.  To be Free; 10.  Scorched Earth; 11.  Divided we Fall

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Rebel Rampage takes metal to an entirely new level in political activism.  Their songs are strong statements about our current landscape, especially their anti-Trump anthem, “Not the Enemy.”  They also feature Angelo Moore (Fishbone) on “Red Star” and Emily Armstrong (Dead Sara) on “I am the Power.”  This one has everything you expect from a power rock trio – hard driving drums and bass, screaming electric guitar and powerful lyrics that leave no doubt which side of the political spectrum this band stands.  While there are few radio stations that would take a chance on their songs, there are plenty of intelligent music supervisors that would quickly put these powerful tracks into television and film placements, especially “I am the Power.”  Follow their example.

Recommendation:  If you like powerful music with an equally strong message, then this is the band for you.

Artist Name:  Teachers with Guns

Album Name:  Red October

Label:  Blue Honey Records

Genre:  Indie/Experimental Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bad Art; 2.  Thru the Deep Blue; 3.  Mission Beach; 4.  Trap Pt II; 5.  All I Know; 6.  Faded Shit . . .; 7.  California Dream; 8.  Medusa

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Despite their name, this band is not composed of teachers.  They are an independent band from Los Angeles who have written an album based on the ideals of the October Revolution of 1917, in protest of future climate catastrophe and economic breakdown.  Their sound is lo-fi and experimental, with intriguing instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics.  While you probably won’t hear them on the radio, you can hear them at various venues around the greater LA area.

Recommendation:  Worth checking out.