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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 17

We made it to the final Monday in April.  That means May 1 is coming up, when tickets for both the 2018 Hollywood Fringe Festival and the 2018 LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase go on sale.  June is gonna be awesome, and we can’t wait to see LA again.  We’ll be in town from June 11-25, so let us know what Fringe shows and concerts we should check out while we’re there.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL

This year marks the 9th annual Festival, and other than 2015, we have attended every year.  We can hardly wait for the tickets to go on sale so we can start planning our trip.  We will again be sponsoring the Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence, which goes to a play which best incorporates music into its story.  The award will be presented on June 24 at the Awards show.  We look forward to checking out your show for this award.  As always, we will be publishing reviews every day, so make sure you invite us to your Fringe show.

JOE PURDY HEADS OUT ON TOUR

Amazing indie artist Joe Purdy heads out on the road as the opening act for Judy Collins and Stephen Stills.  Purdy and Amber Rubarth recently gained attention for their movie American Folk.  You can see them both if you catch the Nashville show.  You can buy your tickets here.

May 03 – Hult Center for the Performing Arts – Eugene, OR
May 04 – Snoqualmie Casino Showroom – Snoqualmie, WA
May 11 – *Nashville Musicians Corner – Nashville, TN 
(American Folk w/ Amber Rubarth)
May 16 – The Rose – Pasadena, CA
May 17 – The Canyon –  Santa Clarita, CA 

June 01 – Luther Burbank Center – Santa Rosa, CA
June 02 – Mountain Winery – Saratoga, CA 
June 04 – Humphries By The Bay – San Diego, CA 
June 08 – *City Winery – Chicago, IL (Solo Show)
June 09 – Meadow Brook Amphitheatre – Rochester Hills, MI

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE

Tickets go on sale tomorrow for the 2nd annual showcase, which will be held at The Mint in Los Angeles on June 19.  Artists scheduled to appear this year include Lexie Rose, Alexis Keagan, Pi Jacobs, Great Willow, The Khourys, Poco’s Rusty Young, Cindy Alexander, Calico the Band’s Ted Russell Kamp, and Shiragirl from the Vans Warped Tour.  Local rockers ROCKET will headline the event.  Tickets are just $10 in advance (with a 60 cent surcharge).  A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Come support indie music.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Blue Élan Records artist Jesse Dayton, whose album will be coming out in June.  Here’s his latest single, “May Have to Do It (Don’t Have to Like It).”  Let us know what you think.

Our second single comes from Strange Boy, a London-based duo with sweeping harmonies and lush techno accompaniment.  Check out their latest offering, “Love Remains.”

Next up is Polychrome, who channel the vibe of The Cocteau Twins to bring us “Dreaming About You.”  If you like electronic, pop and/or dance music, you will love this one.

Our next single, “Thrift Shop,” comes from Johnny and the Bootlegs, who combine blues, punk and rock n’ roll to create a high energy sound.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from Summer Heart, and should get  you ready for summer with the amazing “I Got This Thing for You.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today comes from Secret Colours for their single “Dream Dream.”  We find it interesting that the album was dropped almost a year ago, and we are just now finding out about them.  We can’t wait for more!

Next up is the latest from LA indie icon Kari Kimmel, with another smash hit video.  This one is for her single “High,” and we can’t wait to find out what music supervisor was smart enough to choose this one.  Her new album drops May 25.

Our third video today is from one of our indie bands, FlecHaus.  Here is the lyric video for “Finding,” which was just released TODAY!

We really love this next video from Lora Kelley for her single, “Both Hands.”  We would love to hear what you think.

Last but not least this week is the latest from amazing duo This Way North.  It is a live performance of their single, “Nothing to Say,” and we truly dig their vibe.  Have a great week and we’ll be back soon with more Get it or Forget it.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 45

It only took us 825 days (or from September 7, 2015) to break 40,000 views on Indie Voice Blog, which we accomplished on December 10, 2017.  That’s an average of nearly 50 views a day, with our biggest day being July 11, 2017, when we had 1,100 views.  During that time we have posted 322 articles, including 88 “Get it or Forget It” reviews covering 304 EPs and CDs, as well as numerous artist profiles, Fringe and local theatre reviews and coverage of the semi-annual LA Music Critic Awards, with special features on the 2016 winners.  Not too shabby, right?

MEDIA EXCELLENCE AWARDS TO BE HANDED OUT

The 10th Annual Media Excellence Awards will be handed out in a ceremony at the Laemmle Theater (8556 Wilshire Boulevard) in Beverly Hills on January 18, 2018.  The Red Carpet will start at 7 p.m. with the ceremony to follow at 8 p.m.  For more information, please send an email to the organizers, or give them a call.

LAST CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

The LA Music Critic Awards have issued a final call for submissions for the second half of 2017.  If your single, video, EP or CD was released between July 1 and December 31, 2017, then it is eligible for submission.  Nominations will be announced during the second week of January, with the winners announced by the end of the month.  Several of the winners will be selected to perform at the annual LA Music Critic Award Showcase in June 2018.

NEW SINGLES

We love introducing new artists to you.  Check out the new single, “Wishing Upon a Star,” from Delsinki, which features the amazing Brooke Taylor.  We think you’ll love these vocals and Americana soundtrack.

Australian artist Zvchvrivh blasts onto the scene with a chill track for his new single, “Think of Me.”  We love the groove – let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from one of our favorite performers, based in Nashville.  Heather Bonds is an amazing solo artist as well as the lead single for The Daybreaks.  We think her new single may be one of her best yet.  Check out “Keep it Quiet.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the hot new video from Austin, Texas based  FlecHaus.  This band continues to amaze us with their harmonies and funky sound, especially on their latest tune, “Tell Me Something.”  Let us know what you think.

Check out this dreamy video from Kramies, shot in the incredible Shankill Castle in Ireland earlier this year.  The lyrics from the single, “I Wish I Missed You,” are haunting and perfectly fit the incredible cinematography of the video.  Let us know what you think.

Our final video for today is from The Zephyr Bones for their single, “Telephone.”  We think it’s the perfect way to close out this edition of Monday Mashup.  See you soon.

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 43

Day three of hospice care and I’ve discovered that this is definitely not for the faint of heart.  My brother and I are working hard to provide care for our Dad.  I had no idea how much work is involved in that.  Mad props to anyone who does this for a living.  Taking a break from duties while the hospice nurse works on him and thought it was time to work on our Monday Mashup.

WENDY SWEETLOVE SELLS OUT CD RELEASE SHOW

Wendy Sweetlove, who we introduced to you a few months back at our LA Music Critic Award winners showcase, recently performed at Hotel Cafe for a sold-out house, performing all the songs from her recent release Dirty Sunday.   Alana Sweetwater opened the show, and we wish we could have been there.  From what we hear, it was one of the best shows of the year.

KELLY McGRATH SIGNS NEW PUBLISHING DEAL

Kelly McGrath, who just returned from a tour of the UK, signed a new publishing deal with Luna Music Group, and released her holiday single on iTunes.  We expect even greater things from this indie superstar in the new year.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest from powerhouse band FlecHaus with “Finding.”  This one is a keeper – let it inspire you this season.

Next check out “Big G,” the latest from Neosho.  This one has enough energy to get you up and dancing with encouragement for the new year.  Let us know what you think.

Our last new single today comes from the band Echo City.  The tune is called “Burn Me,” and it definitely gets our flames arising.  We hope you enjoy it as much as we do.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today is “Shooting Stars” by Mellott.  We love this lyric video with its awesome background of shooting stars – it is perfect.  Enjoy.

Our next video, “Paint the Road,” by Sierra Blanca, has visually stunning cinematography and a beautiful story sung with a incredibly strong voice.  Please share this one with your friends.

Our final video for the week is “Rise” by Sluka, an intense protest song complete with images to drive home his point.  Let us know where you stand.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 41 (Updated)

It has been snowing every day since I returned from tour, although much of it has melted when the thermometer reaches the upper 30’s.  It is a beautiful reminder that we are headed into the end of 2017, which has provided a plethora of great indie music.  Just a few more weeks until Thanksgiving and then a few more until Christmas and before you know it, we’ll be announcing the nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2017.  We have definitely got our work cut out for us this time, as the quality and quantity of submissions are some of the best we have ever seen.   We can’t wait to share our nominations with you.  Until then, check out what’s currently happening in the indie music community.

INDIE ARTISTS PARTICIPATE IN SHOWCASES

This past weekend several of our favorite indie acts participated in showcases.  Fan Favorite winner FlecHaus took part in Austin Strong, along with Of Sea and Stone and Deer Fellow, at the Sidewinder in Austin, Texas on November 2.  Meanwhile, back in California, Floating Records hosted its “Fall Revue 2017,” featuring LA Music Critic Award nominee Jeffrey Halford & the Healers, as well as Marble Party and  Graham Guest on November 4 at the Throckmorton Theatre in Mill Valley.  Thanks to publicist Doug Deutsch for sharing.

BLAKE MORGAN HOSTS TRACY BONHAM

Blake Morgan has had an artist residence at Rockwood Music Hall for quite some time.  This month he will host Tracy Bonham on Rockwood’s Stage 3 on November 15.  If you are in New York City,  you might just want to grab tickets for this show – grab your tickets soon cause this series has consistently sold out.

JACK TEMPCHIN CELEBRATES 45th ANNIVERSARY OF “PEACEFUL EASY FEELING”

Blue Élan Records artist and former Eagles hit songwriter Jack Tempchin has scheduled a trio of local Los Angeles shows to celebrate the 45th anniversary of one of his biggest hits, “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” which he co-wrote with Glenn Frey.  The first one is scheduled for November 10 at Carruth Cellars in Solana Beach.  Labelmate Cindy Alexander will open this show.  Next will be a stop at the world famous McCabe’s Guitar Shop in Santa Monica on November 26.  Another labelmate, Chelsea Williams, will open this show.  His final stop will be at Mozambique in Laguna Beach on December 2.

MARINA V TO CELEBRATE CD RELEASE

Multiple LA Music Critic Award winner Marina V, recently returned from a tour of Germany and Moscow, will celebrate the release of her latest CD, Born to the Stars, with a show and party at the amazing Three Clubs on Sunday, November 12.  Tickets are half-off if purchased in advance on her website.  This is one show you don’t want to miss.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is blue-eyed soul singer Ashleigh Watson, with her new single “Little Love.”  We love the sound of this song, and look forward to hearing more from Ms. Watson.  We think she’s got a great vibe that will last for a long time.

Next is “Train to Nowhere,” a sure-to-be Americana classic song from The Sound of Ghosts.  This one has everything you love in a great Americana song – great lyrics, vocals, fiddle and even some amazing horns.  Let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from Tim Maiden, with his beautiful song “So Far Gone,” a trip hop, electronic, R&B masterpiece.  Enjoy this one.

https://soundcloud.com/timmaiden/sofargone1

NEW VIDEOS

LA-based alt-rockers Satellite Citi bring us their latest music video for “Undead.”  It’s got great guitar riffs and a stunning visual story that brings the song to life.   Video game lovers – this one is for you!  Please let us know what you think.

Next up is a great lyric video from The Rebel Light for their song, “Where did all the Love Go?”  We are constantly amazed at the creativity in the indie music community, and think this one is a hit.

Our final music video for this week comes from Elizabeth and the Catapult, which we recently reviewed in our Get it or Forget it series.  Here is their video for “Ambrosia.”  Enjoy your week!

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 34

Good morning, world.  As we reach the 16th anniversary of 9/11, may we all stop to reflect on how our world has changed since that fateful day.  I was preparing to spend the day with my friends from SHeDAISY at a concert they were having in California when I was told by my ex-wife to turn on the TV.  Just as the picture came into focus, I watched in horror as the second plane hit the towers, and then was glued to my set like most of us the remainder of the day.  Alan Jackson summed it up best when he sang, “Where were you when the world stopped turning?”

It was music that helped us recover, and it is music that keeps us going forward.  That is why this blog exists, and why we scour the world to find music that speaks to us.  Make sure you thank those that bring us hope and peace through their music.

GAYLE DAVIDSON ANNOUNCES ZOO MUSIC SERVICES

Australian American Gayle “Giraffe” Davidson has announced the formation of a new service for indie musicians.  Zoo Music Services provides “the basics of a manager, a booking agent, a publicist, and an assistant.  In a music world that no longer requires a label, artist services are more important than ever.   From the simple to the heavy lifting, Zoo Music is your most efficient and cost effective solution,” explains Davidson.  She has offices in Nashville, London and Los Angeles.  Check out her new service here.

WIXEN MUSIC AUTHENTIC VOICES FESTIVAL SET

The Festival, which highlights the artists currently working with Wixen Music Publishing, will be held on Saturday and Sunday, September 23-24 from 4 p.m. to 8:15 p.m. each day in the Smothers Theatre on the campus of Pepperdine University in Malibu.  Tickets are $50 each day and can be obtained by calling (310) 506-4522 or visiting arts.pepperdine.edu.

Saturday features an Alternative Voices-focused line-up of alternative rock band Wildling, International Folk Music Awards Artist of the Year Parker Millsap, influential acoustic guitarist Jonathan Richman, and multi-instrumentalist and whistler Andrew Bird.
Sunday features an Americana Voices-focused line-up of wicked country lyricist Mike Stinson, the genre-bending dark folk storyteller The White Buffalo, Nashville country music outlaw Elizabeth Cook, and singular Grammy-winning songwriter Lucinda Williams.
NEW MUSIC
First up today is a new duo called Freedom Baby, which combine elements of orchestral music with electronica and the sweet voice of Brianna to bring us “melancholy tunes to soothe your souls.”  Let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/freedombaby/video-daydream

 

NONA brings us “Father’s Day,” and we like it.  It has a great beat and heartfelt lyrics.  Let us know what you think.

 

Our final single today comes to us from one of our favorite bands of this year, FlecHaus.  Check out their fourth single, “Lie to Me,” from their upcoming album.  This should definitely put a skip in your step today.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We think you will simply love this innovative video from The Flatliners for their single “Indoors.”  And the song’s not bad either 🙂

For those of you who love the more soulful sounds, check out Matt Allen‘s “Last Time.”  It has a great groove that is much better than the video.

Last but not least today is the latest video from our friend and one of country music’s rising stars, Kelly McGrath.  Her last video met with much success, grabbing the #1 slot on CMT, and we have no reason to doubt that this new video will do just as well.  Here’s Kelly with “All That I Want,” courtesy of Vevo.

 

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 29

Happy full moon Monday!  We had a wonderful road trip last week, travelling to Casper, Fort Collins, Denver and Billings before returning home.  Along the way we met with Amanda from Music Promotion, Inc. and Gina Sicilia, winner of Best Blues Artist from the most recent round of the LA Music Critic Awards.  We also got to hang out with Australian blues queen Anni Piper at the Magic City Blues Festival, as well as Miranda Lambert’s new fiancée Anderson East, review their amazing performances, and catch some of Brian Setzer’s Rockabilly Riot show too.

This week we’ll be heading out to the Western Montana Fair to see what music they have going, and hopefully catch some of Melissa Forrette‘s show at the annual Chicks and Chaps rodeo clinic.

K-SYRAN’S “DIZZY” CONTINUES TO CLIMB THE CHARTS

K-Syran continues her climb up the charts with her latest song, “Dizzy,” produced by Amanda’s husband, Eric Alexandrakis.  She currently sits in the #32 spot on the BDS/Billboard Mainstream Top 40 Indicator chart.  Check it out and tell us it doesn’t remind you of some of the great hits of ABBA.

DAN TEDESCO IS ‘CHASING THE LIGHTNING’

First Denny Tedesco brought us The Wrecking Crew, the untold story behind so much of the music of the 60’s.  Now Dan Tedesco brings us Chasing the Lightning, the story of an life on the road as an independent musician.  Check out this new film as he heads out to share the film before Festival season begins.  The film is amazing and we highly recommend you go see it when it comes to your town.  For more info, check out his website.

NEW MUSIC

Check out this new track from The Crowleys, “LA Sunset,” with its multi-genre sounds.  The vocals are raw, the soundtrack is sweeping, but the potential for this band comes through loud and clear.  Please let us know what you think.

Australian band Cloning the Mammoth will be releasing their new single “San Francisco” on August 11.  We really dig this song, and think you will too.  Please let us know if we’re right.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Here’s the latest video from LA Music Critic Awards winner Amilia K. Spicer for her second single “Lightning.”  Enjoy this Americana jewel.

Speaking of new videos from LA Music Award winners, you simply must check out the latest from FlecHaus.  Their video for “Pitter Patter” simply kicks ass, foretelling the greatness that is in store for this band.  We strongly encourage to check them out and grab a copy of their music – you will definitely not be sorry 🙂

Last but not least this week is another Australian artist, Josh Johnstone.  We love his video for “Just What it Is.”  It is infectious, upbeat and the perfect song to kick start your new week.

Have a great week.  We’ll be back soon with more “Get it or Forget It,” as well as some live performance reviews.