Tag: Durango Songwriters Expo

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Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019 – vol. 27

As we end September and head into October, we are so happy that Patrick O’Heffernan has joined us as a staff writer.  His first review was just published, so check  it out and make sure you subscribe to the Blog so you don’t miss anything.  There’s a lot happening so let’s get right to it.

DURANGO SONGWRITERS EXPO THIS WEEKEND

If you’ve followed our blog for any period of time, then you know how important we think the Durango Songwriters Expo is.  It has launched the careers of quite a few artists, including Alissa Moreno, Tim Fagan and Meghan Trainor.  Not only that, but several of the attendees have won LA Music Critic Awards, including recent winners Jordan Siwek and Scott Krippayne aka PAEHNE.

We have been involved with it for several years and our founder has been part of a panel there as well.  Due to our recent move to Oklahoma City, we are unable to attend this year’s event, which opens on Wednesday night with a showcase in nearby Denver before officially kicking off with a showcase on Thursday and then runs Friday and Saturday at the Omni Hotel in Westminster, Colorado.  The event culminates with a concert on Saturday night which always features the legendary Big Al Anderson.  This year he is joined by Songwriters Hall of Fame member Tom Douglas, major hit songwriter Kate York (Little Big Town, Fall Out Boy) and Grammy-winning songwriter Fagan.  The Saturday concert is open to the public and tickets are available at the door.

OKLAHOMA CITY HAS A NEW FRINGE FESTIVAL

The first Fringe Festival was held in Edinburgh, Scotland and has grown to include Festivals around the world, including the Hollywood Fringe Festival, which is one of the biggest ones in North America.  Oklahoma City has now joined that elite group with the debut of Theatre Crude Fringe Festival, which opened on September 25 and runs through October 6.  The Capitol View Event Center is hosting the Festival.  For more information, click on their website.

INDIE FILM ‘MICKEY AND THE BEAR’ TO DEBUT AT MONTANA FILM FESTIVAL

Mickey and the Bear, an indie film set in Montana, will premiere at this year’s Montana Film Festival on Thursday, October 3 at 6 p.m. at the iconic Roxy Theater in Missoula before heading out on a tour of Montana.  If you are in Montana, we highly recommend you check it out.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Australian artist Riebourne.  We love her voice and think she has a great chance of cracking the American Top 40 scene with “Venom.”

Next up is LCBTQ+ artist Déyyess, who has a powerful message coupled with equally powerful vocals.  We think she is definitely an artist on the rise and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

https://soundcloud.com/deyyess/no-mans-land

Single number three is from pop duo Rule of Young, which we think deserves serious and heavy rotation on radio.  Check out “Lie Better.”  We can’t get enough of their harmonies and musicality.

Our musical voyage next takes us to Toronto for the alt-rock sound of Contour‘s new song, “Above You.”  Great vocals and a serious message  highlight this brilliant song.  Enjoy.

Our final single this week is a retro throwback to the days of disco.  Check out Sweetwood and their latest tune, “One and Only Lover.”  We guarantee this one will get you on the dance floor.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video is from another of the amazing artists at Blue Élan Records, Roan Yellowthorn.  We think she has truly nailed it with her latest, “Indigo.”  Let us know what you think.

From the beauty of the previous video we next present the stark reality of the rocking sound of Makes my Blood Dance on their new video “Sick as our Secrets.”  This one has a lot of food for thoughts and is truly visually stunning, with live concert footage included.

Our third video is an upbeat pop tune from producer Ferris Pier that features to amazing vocals of The Voice stand-out Abby Cates on the song, “Lift me Up.”  If this one doesn’t lift your spirits, nothing will.

Next up is the R&B/hip hop sound of The Greys on their latest “Drama.”  We love this one and would love to see them featured on Empire.

We close out this edition with a dark cover of the classic Pink Floyd song, “Another Brick in the Wall.”  This version shows a dynamic creative mind and we think it will quickly become a favorite on its own merits.  Check out LA’s own Nomad and Lola.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – New Music Friday vol. 2

We made it through another week, and have some great rewards for you, including the latest by a recent Grammy-nominated artist who is covering the library of a Grammy legend.  Let’s get this weekend started.

Artist Name:  Sarah Lightman

Album Name:  Interlude

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Interlude; 2.  Let Your Light In; 3.  Graduating 4.  Alright; 5.  Until I see you Again; 6.  Shell; 7.  I Can’t Be; 8.  So Good; 9.  Home; 10.  We are the Same; 11.  Letter to my Father

Publicist:  Elisa Tapia

Review:  Sarah Lightman came to Los Angeles to be an actress but gave it up to become a singer-songwriter.  If her debut album, Interlude, is any indicate, she made the right choice.  Her songs offer hope and are sung with such a sweet voice that the listener can’t help but be drawn up.  Her music deserves heavy rotation on radio stations nationwide, and her songs should be highly considered for placement in television and film.  We especially love “Graduating,” “Until I See You Again” (with its jazzy undertones and amazing co-vocals from WOLVES), “I Can’t Be,” and “So Good.”  She may have made her start performing on the streets of City Walk, but she’s ready for a larger audience.  Don’t miss this train as it leaves the station for super stardom.

Recommendation:  Definitely RUN out and get this one.

Artist Name:  Jimbo Pap

Album Name:  It can Always get Worse

Label:  Fiesta Red Records

Genre:  California Country/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Submission (Nice Pants); 2.  On my way to the show 3.  Long Kiss Goodbye; 4.  Nothing’s Quite the Same; 5.  Queen of my Lonely Little World; 6.  String of Pearls; 7.  Yard Sale; 8.  Long Time Movin’; 9.  Another Ticket on the Windshield; 10.  It can Always get Worse; 11.  Someone’s Gonna Love me Again

Publicist:  Devious Planet

Review: A recent edition to the Los Angeles Americana scene, Jimbo Pap provides the perfect tongue-in-cheek approach to incorporating their unique blend of country with a folk-style message about current events.  Their voices create incredible harmonies that deliver their message without offending the listener.  You will quickly find yourself tapping along to the beat while you process the words, and will leave with a better understanding of what you can do to improve the world around you.  Don’t forget to grab a beer and tool around the dance floor as well.

Recommendation: A brilliant release that deserves a place in your library – go get it!

Artist Name:  Sarah Rogo

Album Name:  Smoke and Water

Label:  Funzalo Records

Genre:  Blues/Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Pieces; 2.  Here Goes Nothing; 3.  Smoke and Water; 4.  Will you Still Love me Tomorrow 5.  Run; 6.  Jolene; 7.  Love and be Loved; 8.  Take me to the Water 9.  Which Wolf; 10.  Voodoo Child

Publicist:  Independent Music Media

Review: Hard to believe it’s been nearly two years since we reviewed an album from Sarah Rogo (Live at Lestats West), which was her first album published by Funzalo Records.  She was signed after meeting them at the Durango Songwriters Expo, one of several up and coming superstars that emerged from the annual affair in Denver, Colorado.  From the first notes of “Pieces,” you can quickly hear her maturity and growth as an artist.  She is the voice of a new generation of blues and roots singers, and we believe she is heading for tremendous success.  Her songs cut to the heart and deliver a touching message, accompanying by Rogo’s mad resonator guitar skills.  This one deserves to be on repeat, especially her beautiful interpretations of the classics “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” and “Jolene.”

Recommendation:  One of the best we’ve heard from any Durango alum – run out and don’t stop until you get this one.

Artist Name:  Janiva Magness

Album Name:  Change in the Weather:  Janiva Magness Sings John Fogerty

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Blues Covers

Track Listing:  1.  Change in the Weather; 2.  Lodi (ft Sam Morrow); 3.  Someday Never Comes; 4.  Wrote a Song for Everyone; 5.  Don’t you Wish it Were True (ft Taj Mahal); 6.  Have you Ever Seen the Rain 7.  Bad Moon Rising; 8.  Blueboy; 9.  Fortunate Son; 10.  Deja Vu (All Over Again); 11.  A Hundred and Ten in the Shade; 12.  Lookin’ out my Backdoor

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  As someone who grew up on the music of John Fogerty and Credence Clearwater Revival, it was quite an honor to be asked to review these amazing covers of those songs we grew to love.  Janiva Magness takes her stellar blues skills to turn these songs into instant blues classics, and we are sure that Fogerty would be totally ok with that.  Our favorites include “Lodi,” “Have you Ever Seen the Rain,” “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son,” and “Lookin’ out my Backdoor.”

Recommendation:  If you love Fogerty and the blues, you will simply adore these interpretations.  Run out and get it today!

 

 

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

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

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

Artist Name:  Burn the Treaty

Album Name:  Sticks and Stones

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana Folk Rock

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

Publicist:  Self-promoted

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

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one now!

Artist Name:  Satellites

Album Name:   Love and Disaster

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Soul

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

Publicist:  Self-promoted

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

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

Artist Name:  California Hearse

Album Name:  California Hearse

Label:  1078380 Records

Genre:  Pop Punk

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

Publicist:  Earshot Media

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

Recommendation:  Definitely worth your attention – go Get it!

Artist Name:  TOZ Antonio Piretti

Album Name:  #STRONGER

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

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

Publicist:  Press Town PR

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

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

Artist Name:  Magela Herrera

Album Name:  Explicaciones

Label:  Brontosaurus Records

Genre:  Latin Jazz

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

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

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

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

 

 

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

Get it or forget it, Robby Baier, Engram, Beans on Toast, Filippo Dall’Asta, Roxy Rawson

Happy Saturday.  We meant to publish this article on Friday, but got stuck pulling a double shift.  It’s been a week since the nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards were announced, and we have a good race for Fan Favorite.  The current leader is YYNOT with 65 votes, followed by Jordan Siwek with 29 and a tie between Reloaded Norway and Paper Gliders with 20 votes each.  Make sure your vote counts.  Simply leave a comment on the announcement page, share and encourage other fans to do the same.  Let’s add five more great artists into the mix with this eclectic collection.

Artist Name:  Robby Baier

Album Name:  Making Space

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Love you for That; 2.  Got This Feeling; 3.  Animals; 4.  Even Now; 5.  Easy With You; 6.  New Day; 7.  Slip Away; 8.  Don’t Look Away; 9.  It’s Happening; 10.  Making Space

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Robby Baier is the latest in a string of amazing indie artists we have met because of our involvement with the Durango Songwriters Expo.  By day Baier is a songwriter, producer and composer for SubStation Studio in Housatonic, Massachusetts, but he is an amazing artist on his own.  On his latest album, he delivers a stunning collection of radio-friendly songs that should put him on the music industry radar.  Best tracks include “Love you for That,”  “Got This Feeling,” “Easy With You,” “New Day,” “Slip Away,” “Don’t Look Away,” and the title track.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your attention.  Get this one.

Artist Name:  Engram

Album Name:  Das Kapital

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  New/post Wave Electronica

Track Listing:  1.  Divine Plan; 2.  Karl Marx; 3.  The Good Life; 4.  Highgate part 2; 5.  The Razor Inside; 6.  Law of Betrayal; 7.  Hi Teikei No; 8.  What am I?; 9.  Point of no Return; 10.  Eyn Irren Tot; 11.  Exquisite Corpse

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The latest project by John Costello and Martin Bowes (Attrition) is called Engram.  After 22 years as an idea, the project has finally taken shape and their debut album has been released.  The music is a throwback to the new and post wave music of the 80s and 90s, and would make great material for DJ mixes for raves and dance clubs.  The songs include political statements that make for interesting listening, including the live broadcasts from President John F. Kennedy on “Karl Marx.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out, especially if you like electronic music.

Artist Name:  Beans on Toast

Album Name:  A Bird in the Hand

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Another Year; 2.  Good Health & Happiness; 3.  Magic; 4.  Here at Homerton Hospital; 5.  Alexa; 6.  1980s Sagittarius; 7.  Bamboo Toothbrush; 8.  Watching the World go By; 9.  Please Give Generously; 10.  Miss you Like Crazy

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  British folk artist Beans on Toast has launched his 10th studio album, which was produced by Ben Lovett of Mumford & Sons.  We featured his music video for “Alexa” in  our Ten Amazing Videos of November article, and it is a good representation of the randomness of this album, with folk ballads, punk and political statements throughout.  “Another Year.” “Good Health & Happiness” and the latest single, “Magic” are beautiful folk ballads about his experiences and the birth of his child, while “Alexa” is more punk and provides a tongue-in-cheek warning about the dangers of online purchasing and reliance on AI applications like Alexa.    “Bamboo Toothbrush” is likewise a warning about our reliance on disposal plastics.  We also love the carefree style of “Watching the World go By,” and the sweet homespun wisdom it contains about remembering to stop and smell the roses in our busy lives.

Recommendation:   This one is a welcome addition to any music library.  Go Get it today!

Artist Name:  Filippo Dall’Asta

Album Name:  Mediterasian

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Gypsy Jazz/Indian Music

Track Listing:  1.  Alap; 2.  Mediterasian; 3.  Brazil; 4.  Nothingland; 5.  Django’s Castle (ft Lollo Meier); 6.  Cristina; 7.  Prelude No. 2 in C Minor; 8.  La Javanaise; 9.  Insaaf Ki Dagar Pe

Publicist:  Reversed Tornado

Review:  The luscious music of India meets the gypsy jazz sound of Italy on the debut album from guitar virtuoso Filippo Dall’Asta.  The result is breathtaking and these relaxing instrumental grooves will soon have the listener in audio nirvana.  This is one of the best instrumental albums of 2018, and an early favorite for an LA Music Critic Award for the next cycle.  You will want to play this one from start to finish, and relish in the beautiful guitar playing of Dall’Asta.  He even brings in renowned Gypsy guitar legend Lollo Meier on “Django’s Castle” to put the cherry on top of this musical treat.

Recommendation:  If you love music, you will want this one in your collection.  We strongly recommend you Get it.

Artist Name:  Roxy Rawson

Album Name:  Quenching the Kill

Label:  561867 Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Black Eyed Soup; 2.  Rounded Sound; 3.  The Good Shepherd; 4.  Born Again; 5.  Golden Heart; 6.  Bouncing Boots; 7.  God’s Got Bones; 8.  Iron Shoes; 9.  Freckled Agencies; 10.  Teardrop for Rosa

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  The debut album of Roxy Rawson proves first and foremost that the voice is the most versatile instrument of all.  Born in the UK, Rawson currently resides in San Francisco, and the influences of both English and American music permeate her sound.  She has been compared to a mix of Florence + the Machine and Feist, and we think the comparison is spot on.  Her voice rises and falls like a string quartet as she weaves her listeners into her story line, delivering on all fronts, shifting from one genre to the next like a finely tuned Porsche changing gears.  We could listen to this one over and over again.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one – your life may very well depend on it.

 

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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 Durango Songwriters Expo Hollywood Fringe Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 41

Happy Veterans Day (day 2).  Since the real day fell on a Sunday, the government is honoring it today, giving us veterans a double holiday.  Thanks to Red Robin and Applebee’s for feeding so many of us yesterday, and to Denny’s and Noodles Express for taking care of us today.  We’ve got some news for you, as well as five new singles and music videos to share, so grab your coffee and let’s get going.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES DATES FOR 2019

The tenth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival will be held June 13-30, 2019, with previews from June 6-11 and the Opening Night Party on June 12.  In addition, they are now accepting applications for Fringe Scholarships.  As we previously informed you, our very own LA Music Critic has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for his first solo show, Livin’ the Dream, which is scheduled to premiere at HFF19.  Please check out his campaign and support him if you can.  We thank you for whatever you can contribute.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from a pair of songwriters we have met as a result of our involvement in the Durango Songwriters Expo.  Richard Harris is an amazing songwriter and mentor who has worked with a number of DSE alum, and his collaboration with fellow Brit Greg Holden on “Something Beautiful” gives us hope in this troubled time.  We have wanted to share this one since we heard it at the Expo in October.

While we’re spotlighting UK artists, here are a couple of singles we have received as a result of our affiliation with “Send to Media.”  First up is Welshman Ryan Davies, who continues the aforementioned theme with “Beautiful Thing.”  This one reminds us of Rod Stewart.

Our third single is a super-cool upbeat dance pop track from Fanny Andersen.  Check out her groovy number, “Dollar Signs.”  Although this one technically came out in September, we missed it and wanted you to have the chance to hear what should be the first of many hit songs from her.

https://soundcloud.com/edda-music/fanny-andersen-dollar-igns/s-5gCif

Our fourth single comes from Hotel Mira, who says they were inspired to write “Jungle” after viewing the Oscar nominated film, Lady Bird.  Let us know what you think of this outstanding indie rock band, which we previously featured in our Ten Great Singles of April article.

Our final single today is a delightful cover of the Prince-written Sinead O’Connor song “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Norwegian artist Anna of the North.  Enjoy this one which should get your week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from former Mickey Mouse Club and The Voice contestant Tony Lucca, who reminds us that “Everthing’s Changing.”  We love this one.

Next up is the latest from the one and only KT Tunstall.  Here’s her video for her latest single, “Human Being.”  Special props to Eccaia Sampson, the unbelievable 8-year old martial artist who stars in the video.

Our third video is some rocking blues from Karen Lawrence and Blue by Nature.  Check out this live version of their song, “It’s All About You.”  Thanks to Doug Deutsch for sharing this one with us.

Our fourth video takes us from the blues to R&B.  We love this one from the amazing Lorelle Howard, who mixes several genres to deliver a gem in “Runnin.”

Our final video this week is “World Domination,” an indie rock post apocalyptic smash from Band of Silver that pays homage to such classic movies as The Hunger Games.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Davey and the Chains, Charmless i, Milkmen, I am Waiting for you Last Summer, Roxanne Tataei

Still on a high from the amazing Durango Songwriters Expo, especially that closing concert with Chris Gelbuda, Al Anderson, Clay Mills, Marty Dodson and Richie Furay – what inspiration!  Here’s our first Get it or Forget it for the week, and we’re happy to share these five artists with you.

Artist Name:  Davey and the Chains

Album Name:  Shimmy

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  70s Power Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Lil Dreamer; 2.  Bomberos; 3.  Cinnamon; 4.  Tumbleweed Dub; 5.  Mercedes Benz; 6.  Old Windy Reed; 7.  Monday Disco Morning; 8.  Present for You; 9.  Everett; 10.  Ruthie

Publicist:  Dour Pop

Review:  The 70s were a dynamic time for music, and Davey and the Chains capture a lot of that period in their fourth release, Shimmy.  This spotless collection of tunes are reminiscent of some of the hits from bands like The Eagles, The Bee Gees, Three Dog Night, Jackson Brown and Neil Diamond.  If you are a power pop lover, then this collection will bring back great memories for you.  Best tracks include “Bomberos,” “Cinnamon,” “Old Windy Road,” “Monday Disco Morning,” “Present for You,”and “Everett.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one if you love power pop.

Artist Name:  Charmless i

Album Name:  First Coming

Label:  BERT Music

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Rabbit Hole; 2.  Fire Up (Here we Go); 3.  Giant Leap for my Kind; 4.  Dream (The Night Hag)

Publicist:  TCBYML

Review:  Charmless i is a band that has rapidly climbed to the top of the charts in The Netherlands and Europe, and deserves the same attention here in the States.  Their brand of alternative rock is hard hitting and immediately familiar.  From the first notes of “Rabbit Hole,” it quickly becomes obvious that this band is ready for worldwide domination.  The four songs on this EP have all been previously released as singles, and it is a privilege to get them all together in this spectacular package.  Each song is unique yet familiar with strong guitar, steady drums, great lyrics and vocals, and you may find yourself loving these earworms, especially “Fire Up (Here we Go).”

Recommendation:  Drop everything and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Milkmen

Album Name:  Milkmen

Label:  Know Hope Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Ramus; 2.  Johnny Dangerously; 3.  I Think I Know; 4.  Papa Gable; 5.  K.O.T.H.; 6.  Circles are Square; 7.  Grahamcracker; 8.  Fruit Leather; 9.  Brown Pants; 10.  Indian Red; 11.  Foreverday

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  This album was originally released in 2015, and is being re-issued after the band signed with Know Hope Records.  They plan to release a new album in early 2019.  The band formed while the members were at Rutgers University.  They call their music “milkpunk” because it is a creamy mix of whatever genre they feel like drawing from, from indie rock to pop,  jazz and  experimental to punk.  The band is a thriving part of the underground rock scene in New Jersey, and it is obvious from even a casual listen why they are so popular.  We think they deserve some industry-wide attention.

Recommendation:  If you like your music with a steady beat and generously dished out in small portions, then this is the album for you.

Artist Name:  I am Waiting for you Last Summer

Album Name:  Together

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Instrumental Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Run Away With Me; 2.  The Great Escape; 3.  Will Last Forever

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  IWFYLS is a Russian electronic instrumental band that is making incredible waves throughout Europe.  They call their music “electronic, instrumental, experimental, epic, atmospheric, indietronica,” but we just call it great.  When my wife heard it, she put her television show on pause, and ran into the room, asking “Who are these guys?  They’re GOOOD!”  I could not agree more.  We only wish there was more than three songs, because we could listen to them all day.

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – just get up and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Roxanne Tataei

Album Name:  Full Moon on Aries

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Intro; 2.  Dancing with the Devil; 3.  Pull me Down; 4.  Forever Green; 5.  2’s Me; 6.  Perfect Fit; 7.  Without Me In; 8.  Make or Break; 9.  Crimson Eyes; 10.  Until it’s Done; 11.  Final Call; 12.  Outro

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  She calls herself a cross between Minnie Ripperton and Stevie Nicks, and we think that description is spot on.  Her music is soothing and fresh, much like we expect to hear when we go see the remake of A Star is Born later today.  Our favorite tracks include “Dancing with the Devil,” “Pull me Down,” “2’s Me,” the jazzy “Perfect Fit,” “Make or Break,” and “Crimson Eyes.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get it!

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 36

Wow, what a wonderful weekend at the Durango Songwriters Expo.  We’ll have a complete breakdown for you later this week, but suffice it to say that it was life-changing.  Thanks again to Jim Attebery, Jack Hayford and the entire staff for delivering a truly inspiring program and to all the old and new songwriters and industry professionals we encountered.

BROADWAY WORLD AWARDS NOMINATIONS NOW OPEN

Nominations are NOW OPEN for the 2018 BroadwayWorld Regional Awards Worldwide!

Regional productions, touring shows, and more are all included, honoring productions which opened between October 1, 2017 through September 30, 2018.  Our local editors have set the categories and now YOU get to nominate and vote for your favorites!  Nominations are reader-submitted and will be open through October 31.

After the nomination period ends, BroadwayWorld‘s local editors will proof the list for eligibility and errors, then voting will begin in early November and run through December 31.  Winners will be announced in January!

Check out the website for more info.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from an old friend who has a new project.  We have always been a huge fan of Megan Burtt, and have reviewed her a few times.  She has a new band named Gingerbomb, and they have released their first single, “Wildfire.”  Check out those harmonies.

Our second single is from another amazing Blue Élan Records artist, Car Astor, formerly known as SEE.  Check out the amazing rhythms of “Girlfriend.”

Our third single comes from a band with the most original name we have discovered to date – Approachable Members of Your Local Community.  Check out their new single, “Only Friend,” featuring the vocals of Tamara Dream.

Our next single takes it up a few notches on the rocking scale, and we really love the sound of Laurina Sue‘s “Dark Side.”  Check it out and see if you’re ready to cross over.

Our final single comes from the UK with the premiere of Peakes‘ latest, “Still Life.”  We introduced you to them last year and we think this one will be perfect for your Monday.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Last week we reviewed the latest album from Saint Slumber, and today we want to share their new music video.  Check out “Stay Away.”

Vanessa Zamora is becoming one of our favorite Latin artists, and we are proud to feature her newest video, “Solegrande,” today.  This one should get your charged up for the new week.

We switch it up with our third video from the rock band, Superbean.  We love the energy of “Marisol,” and think you will too.

Last week we reviewed the new album from Everlast, and are happy to share the video for his video, “Don’t Complaint.”  Welcome back!

Our final video this week is from another artist who is becoming one of our favorites.  Last week we shared her cover of David Bowie’s “Lost in Love.”  This week she brings us the video for her song, “Strangest Dream.”  Check out Rachel Eckroth and let us know what you think.

 

 

 

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Colin Devlin, We are the City, MILLAMIX, Tokyo Police Club, KT Tunstall

What an amazing Thursday we had.  Our Brewers won it in the 10th after blowing a 2-0 lead in the 9th, and the Durango Songwriters Expo kicked off with an amazing showcase of talent.  Today is the first full day of the Expo, with lots of interaction with industry, seminars and another showcase tonight.  And of course, another chance for the Brewers to shine.  Check out these amazing albums being released today, including the first new album from an old favorite in quite a few years.

Artist Name:  Colin Devlin

Album Name:  High Point

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  High Point; 2.  Just a Fire; 3.  Highwire; 4.  Promised Land; 5.  This is Where we Are; 6.  Nostalgia; 7.  Water; 8.  Shine On; 9.  Exosphere; 10.  A Dream Worth Living; 11.  Lost in the Silence

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  Colin Devlin is a Los Angeles transplant from Dublin, Ireland, where he was a member of The Devlins.  Since arriving in LA, he has become a fixture of the music scene, working with a myriad of indie artists and signing with Blue Élan Records to record his own solo album.  And what an album it is!  He hits the ground running with the title track, and the album only goes up from there.  There is a brooding darkness just underneath the surface, and comparisons to Bono and Sting are definitely on target.  We have already featured several songs in our Monday Mashup articles, and this album has something for everyone, delivering one incredible song after another.  This is music for those times you want to chill and contemplate life, and it will provide you with amazing clarity as you ponder the skillfully written lyrics and music.  We love every song, especially the title track, “Just a Fire,” “Nostalgia,” and “Shine On.”

Recommendation:  Don’t miss the chance to get this one while it’s hot.  Get it Today!

Photo by Kirsten Huculiak

Artist Name:  We are the City

Album Name:  At Night

Label:  Light Organ Records/Tooth & Nail

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Long Goodbye (ft Emily Millard); 2.  When I Dream, I Dream of You; 3.  Delta Lab; 4.  Our Spectacular & Common Lives; 5.  Mid-Tempo Drama; 6.  When you Dream, you Dream of Waves; 7.  Peachland at Night; 8.  Dark Horizon; 9.  Choice is Unlike Anything; 10.  Ones you Love (ft Shad); 11.  To get it Right you Have to get it Wrong Sometimes

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  We featured the video for “When I Dream, I Dream of You” this past Monday, and are pleased to be able to review the entire album for you today.  This Canadian treasure needs to be shared with the world.  Their music is fresh, upbeat and extremely well-crafted, and every song is worthy of attention.  The layers of goodness contained in each track scream out that this is a band that has arrived and is looking for a long-term residence in your musical library.  Their sound is majestic and cinematic.  Music supervisors would be wise to consider their music for placement opportunities in television and film.

Recommendation:  Give them a home in your music collection.  You won’t regret it.

Artist Name:  MILLAMIX

Album Name:  2

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  80s Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Can’t Wait; 2.  Fly; 3.  Feel Again (Castaway); 4.  Let you Down; 5. Weakened by You; 6.  Infinite Time; 7.  Things Don’t Make Sense; 8.  Carry Along

Publicist:  self-promoted

Review:  If you love 80s pop music, then have we got a treat for you.  Stephen Miller has returned in his persona as Millamix to deliver a fresh set of 80s-inspired pop songs that are destined to become a staple of your 80s library.  From the first track, “Can’t Wait,” which was obviously inspired by Phil Collins, Miller delivers a stunning collection of songs that capture all of the joy and energy of 80s pop.  We really love “Feel Again (Castaway)” and “Carry Along” with the sounds of that amazing saxophone.

Recommendation:  If you love the 80s, you must have this album in your collection.  It will earn a place in your heart.

Artist Name:  Tokyo Police Club

Album Name:  TPC

Label:  Dine Alone Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  New Blues; 2.  Pigs; 3.  Hercules; 4.  Simple Dude; 5.  Unseen; 6.  DLTFWYH; 7.  Can’t Stay Here; 8.  Outttatime; 9.  Ready to Win; 10.  Edgy; 11.  One of These Days; 12.  Daisy Chain

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Tokyo Police Club are back with their first full length studio album in four years, and the result was definitely worth the wait.  From the dynamic energy of their first single, “Hercules” to the Red Hot Chili Peppers vibe of “Simple Dude,” TPC proves the band was right about the decision to make one more album.  Rob Schnapf, who produced the band’s 2010 release Champ was the perfect choice for this new album, and his production work is truly brilliant.  Other songs that we really love include “New Blues,” “Can’t Stay Here,” “Edgy,” and “One of These Days.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  KT Tunstall

Album Name:  Wax

Label:  Rostrum Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Little Red Thread; 2.  Human Being; 3.  The River; 4.  The Mountain; 5.  The Healer (redux); 6.  Dark Side; 7.  Poison; 8.  Backlash and Vinegar; 9.  In This Body; 10.  The Night That Bowie Died; 11.  Tiny Love

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  She’s back, and it’s like she never left us.  We had the privilege of seeing KT Tunstall open acoustically for Better Than Ezra and Bare Naked Ladies at the start of summer, and featured her video for her first single, “The River” in our Monday Mashup column.  Believe us when we tell you that this is some of her best work ever.  The album kicks off with the rocking “Little Red Thread” and only goes up from there.   Tunstall has reestablished herself as a relevant performer who knows how to write great songs that are truly radio friendly.  We think she has enough worthy material here to keep our radio dials filled for the next year!  There really isn’t a weak track on the entire album.  This one is definitely going on repeat!!

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

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Old Faith, The Mutineers, Colonel Petrov’s Good Judgement, He Arrived by Helicopter, PublicART

Good morning from Denver, where we are for this year’s Durango Songwriters Expo at The Omni Interlocken.  We kick things off tonight with a showcase before starting in the morning with listen sessions with industry professionals and seminars.  Tonight is also game one of the National League Division Series between our Milwaukee Brewers and the Colorado Rockies.  In the meantime, here are five new artists to check out.

Artist Name:  Old Faith

Album Name:  Old Faith

Label:  Refresh Records

Genre:  Indie Rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Landing; 2.  Reunion; 3.  Cherish; 4.  Switchbacks; 5.  Take Cover; 6.  Vacancy; 7.  Primrose

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  When you say the words “rock instrumental composers, most people think of Danny Elfman and Trent Reznor, but we would like to put forth another name – Old Faith.  This amazing four-piece band has created a masterful debut album, full of brilliant images and lush landscapes which are perfect for placement in commercials, videos, television and film.  They paint such lovely pictures with their instruments that would be the perfect soundtrack for a myriad of uses, and we can’t get enough of their incredible work.  Put this one on repeat and just sit back and relax.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer, if you need a musical soundtrack for your daily living.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  The Mutineers

Album Name:  Threshold

Label:  Mutiny Studios

Genre:  Americana/Alt-Country/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Hard Sell; 2.  Couldn’t get Over You; 3.  Afterthoughts; 4.  I’ve got the Bottle; 5.  Hourglass

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  Portland gives us another great indie band in the form of Americana/Alt Country powerhouse duo The Mutineers, composed of Merry Young on drums and vocals and Brian Mathusek on guitars and vocals.  These guys are not afraid to hit you hard with their music while providing intriguing stories in the form of their lyrics.  Hey Chris Funk – these guys need to be part of next year’s Traveler’s Rest Festival.  You cant go wrong with these five tracks, and we can’t wait to see where they go from here.

Recommendation:  This band rocks and we highly recommend you go Get this EP.

Artist Name:  Colonel Petrov’s Good Judgement

Album Name:  Among Servants

Label:  Moral Machine

Genre:  Dark Rock

Track Listing:    1.  Burning Straw; 2.  Ashes; 3.  Fire and Fury (The Poetry of War); 4.  Resistor; 5.  Providers; 6.  Ascension; 7.  Among Servants; 8.  Bad Shepherd; 9.  Death of a Guardian Angel

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  If you like your rock dark and moody, then this is the band for you.  The music is hard and razor-sharp, with a cacophony of sounds that include jazz sax, heavy metal drums and guitar riffs and the overall dark imagery, including screaming vocals.  The band tends to let the music speak for itself, but has included a few vocals, including those on “Fire and Fury,” which consist of actual quotes from President Trump and Kim Jong Un.  This album is not pretty, but in this political climate, it may be just what the doctor ordered.

Recommendation:  While the overall vibe is dark and heavy, this band is very talented and worthy of your attention.

Artist Name:  He Arrived by Helicopter

Album Name:  The Shiny Hostel

Label:  Eastern Spurs (vinyl)/Very Special Recordings (cassette)

Genre:  Indie Folk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  The Decline in U.S. Civics; 2.  Cold Damn Truth; 3.  Big Tree Big House; 4.  Hemoglobin; 5.  Alas the Cults; 6.  Lullaby #1; 7.  He Arrived by Helicopter; 8.  Fake Trees; 9.  Wulu; 10.  Death Wing Bird Trap; 11.  Day Kicks Night; 12.  Hot and Lonely

Publicist:  WolfieVibes Publicity

Review:  C. (Christian) Gibbs has been a very successful member of several bands, including Foetus, Modern English and Morning Glories.  He has assumed a new name (He Arrived by Helicopter) for this venture, and truly delivers an incredible album with equally powerful lyrics and vocals.  He is also quite the impressive guitarist as demonstrated on the beautiful instrumentals “Big Tree Big House,” “Lullaby #1” and “Fake Trees.”  In addition, he uses Middle Eastern and electronic sounds on the instrumental “Alas the Cults.”  Please listen carefully to the words of “Cold Damn Truth” and “He Arrived by Helicopter.”  This one is a definite keeper.

Recommendation:  The simple fact is that you need this one in your library, so go Get it!

Artist Name:  PublicART

Album Name:  Modernika

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Electro-folk

Track Listing:  1.  Montreaux; 2.  Forever Keep Me; 3.  Light Years

Publicist:  Perpetual Media Relations

Review:  PublicART calls the artist friendly community of Silverlake in Los Angeles their home, but their music has a world-wide appeal, no doubt the result of their individual efforts.  Composed of Stevvi Alexander and Jan Ozveren, they are taking the world by storm with this all-too-short three-song EP, featuring the monster future hit, “Montreaux.”  Stevvi is currently working as the featured vocalist on the touring production of Ramin Djawadi‘s score from Game of Thrones, while Jan is the principal guitarist for Charlie Puth.  We truly love the sound of Stevvi’s vocals on both “Montreaux” and “Light Years,” both of which are extremely radio friendly,

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, and grab this one TODAY!