March has arrived so spring shouldn’t be too far behind! What did you think about the Oscars last night? Besides the fact that it was long, we were delighted to see the focus shift onto the hard-working ladies and minorities who have contributed so much and received so little recognition. With that in mind, let’s look at what’s happening in the indie world.
UM CIRCUS CLUB TO HOST FIRST EVER RENAISSANCE FAIRE
The University of Montana Circus Club is hosting their spring fundraiser, and it’s a mini-Renaissance Faire! The event will occur on Sunday, March 11 from 2-5:30 p.m. in Schreiber Gym on the campus of the University of Montana. It is right next to the Library on the southeastern corner of campus.
There is a $5/person suggested donation, or $15 per family (bring all the kids!) Please pay at the door with cash!
The faire will include food and beverage (of course), a costume and “Best Knees-in-a-Kilt” contests with prizes, live weapons and combat demonstrations, archery and axe-throwing activities, circus performances, face painting, crafting workshops, and a photo booth with costumes and props. Costumes will also be available for rent.
THE AUDIENCE AWARDS ANNOUNCE BIG SKY WINNERS
The recently concluded Big Sky Documentary Film Festival included a Native American Doc Challenge this year, which was run by the Audience Awards. Here were their winners:
The First Place Jury Winner was Derrick Lamere, with his film United by Water, while the Jury Honorable Mention went to Anthony Florez for Generations.
Check out the top eight films which are competing for the $5,500 prize by clicking here. Voting runs April 4-10.
NEW SINGLES
Our first single today comes from a band we have previously reviewed who has recently signed with Blue Élan Records. Please check out “Tip of my Tongue” by Mint Trip.
Next up is a young artist named Ashley Delima, who has a lot to say with her single, “Stay in America.” She is a living example of a Dreamer, and wants to tell everyone why she wants to stay here. She is an American born child who was raised in Brazil but has now settled in New Jersey. The song is a shout-out to those struggling to stay in the U.S. at a time when DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival) is being threatened. The song was produced by two-time Grammy winning producer Marc Swersky (Joe Cocker, Hillary Duff) and mixed by Mark Needham (Imagine Dragons, Fleetwood Mac). Please share her story.
Our final single today comes to us from Amsterdam and features Belle and the Beats with their single, “Soldier of the Night.”
NEW MUSIC VIDEOS
Last week we had the pleasure of reviewing Floods. They have now released a music video for their first single, “Heavy Hearts.” We hope you dig it as much as we do.
Our second new video features acclaimed actor Danny Trejo in the latest video from The Zephyr Bones. Check out “The Arrow of our Youth.”
Our third video is from Blue Élan Records’ latest revival artist, Fanny Walked the Earth. We simply love this video for the amazing single, “Lured Away.” Don’t forget to check out their review as well.
Our final video this week is from Little Stranger for their single, “Sing it High.” this should get your week off to a great start.
Belle