Tag: Get it or Forget it

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

Get it or forget it – Mark Wayne Glasmire, Hilary Scott, Young Million, Paolo Preite, K Michelle DuBois

Happy Friday!  Today the League Championship Series begin with our Milwaukee Brewers hosting the Los Angeles Dodgers, and the Boston Red Sox hosting the Houston Astros.  Should be a great series.  In the meantime, let’s check out five great albums being released today.

Artist Name:  Mark Wayne Glasmire

Album Name:  Can’t be Denied

Label:  Traceway Records

Genre:  Singer-Songwriter Country

Track Listing:  1.  I’ve got a Feeling; 2.  Those Nights; 3.  Can’t be Denied; 4.  Without You; 5.  Alysia; 6.  Borderline; 7.  Feel Your Love; 8.  Gone too Soon; 9.  This too Shall Pass; 10.  Deep Inside my Heart; 11.  Out of the Frying Pan; 12.  Thru my Eyes

Publicist:  So Much Moore Media

Review:  Referred to as the “Texas Troubadour,” country singer-songwriter Mark Wayne Glasmire has a hit with his latest release, Can’t be Denied.  Beginning with “I’ve Got a Feeling,” Glasmire brings us potential hit after potential hit, and his music is truly radio friendly.  “Those Nights” and the title track would also be ideal for potential placement in a commercial, or in television and/or film.  “Without You” and “This Too Shall Pass” are two of the best ballads we have heard in a quite a spell, while “Deep Inside my Heart” will have you two-stepping around the floor in no time flat.  We could go on and on about each and every song, as none of them could possibly be consider “weak.”  This album should just be put on repeat and enjoyed over and over.

Recommendation:  Get this one as soon as you can.

Artist Name:  Hilary Scott

Album Name:  Don’t Call me Angel

Label:  Belltown Records

Genre:  Country/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t Call me Angel; 2.  Not Used to Being Used To; 3.  You Will be Mine; 4.  Make it Right; 5.  Heartless; 6.  Unlove Story; 7.  Moon and Back; 8.  In Time; 9.  Kiss; 10.  Here I Am

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Not to be confused with Hillary Scott of Lady Antebellum, this Hilary Scott is just as amazing.  On this album, her sound is pure classic country with just a taste of folk, and she is a master of this genre.  Her songs belong on the radio right beside those of her amazing name sake, with every one a potential hit.  As wonderful as her original numbers are, she also takes the time to put her own spin on her cover of a song written by Prince and made famous by Tom Jones, “Kiss.”  Another album for the repeat button.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, to your nearest retailer and GET this one NOW!

Artist Name:  Small Million

Album Name:  Young Fools

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Synth Pop

Track Listing:  1.  LONE; 2.  Sirens; 3.  Young Fools; 4.  Wild Devices; 5.  This is Where it Ends; 6.  Bullets in the Bower; 7.  Outro (Cathedrals)

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  Portland has shown once again that it has some of the best indie music in the country.  Los Angeles transplant Ryan Linder and Portland native Malachi Graham join together to form Small Million, and the synth pop world will never be the same again.  They hit the ground running with their first single, “LONE,” and never stop ascending with the remainder of this amazing sophomore EP.  This is a band that needs to be on the radar of every radio station manager, as well as heavily considered by music supervisors for a myriad of placements in commercials, television and film.  We simply love this band and this EP, and consider it to be one of the best we have heard this year.

Recommendation:  What are you waiting for?  Get it!!!

Artist Name:  Paolo Preite

Album Name:  An Eye on the World

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  It’s not Over Yet (ft. Onde J Pivec); 2.  Wandering (ft Kenny Arnoff, Bob Malone & Fernando Saunders); 3.  Memories & Dust (ft Jane Scarpatoni & Onde J Pivec); 4.  Una Piccola Differenza (ft Fernando Saunders); 5.  Don’t Stop Dreaming; 6.  I Will Meet you Again (ft Michael Jerome & Chiara Marcon); 7.  Can’t Find a Reason (ft Kenny Arnoff); 8.  Never Ending Way (ft Chip Crawford, Joe Ayoub & TEss); 9.  An Eye on the World (ft Bob Malone & Michael Jerome); 10.  In Your Eyes (ft Onde J Pivec)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Paolo Preite may originally be from Rome, but the amazing cast of musicians joining him on this album are pure Los Angeles royalty.  His form of indie rock is reminiscent of Bob Seger and Jackson Browne and is extremely radio friendly.  These are songs we would love to hear on our radio dial, and anywhere else they can be placed.  There is a plethora of material here that is perfect for placement and for heavy radio rotation, with every song a heavy hitter.  We simply cannot get enough of this album or this artist, and believe that this album could very well be his breakout time.  He belongs at the top of the charts, and is definitely worthy of attention from the Grammy nomination committee.

Recommendation:  Don’t stop until you Get this one!

Artist Name:  K Michelle DuBois

Album Name:  Harness

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Orchid; 2.  Love and Only Love; 3.  Velvet Eyes; 4.  City Lights; 5.  Wild Weed; 6.  Heart Like a Yardstick; 7.  Celeste; 8.  Becoming Real; 9.  Margot on the Ocean; 10.  Dream Receiver

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  Sounding like she time-traveled from a 90’s rock band, K. Michelle DuBois bursts onto the indie rock scene with a smashing album that truly delivers.  DuBois has a voice similar to Stevie Nicks, with a powerful group of musicians that play circles around Fleetwood Mac.  DuBois may be the most powerful indie vocalist we have encountered this year, and we have no doubt that she has what it takes to bloom on the national music scene.  She belongs on the radio and we can only imagine the incredible performance she would deliver live in concert.  A Star is Born and we couldn’t be more delighted with the impeccable musical chops of DuBois.  The sky is truly the limit for this talented musician and songwriter.

Recommendation:  You simply MUST Get this one, sooner rather than later!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – DJ Lag, Scott Sharrard, Risky Motion, Mall Grab, Nika Cantabile

Winter is coming soon, but we’ve got some hot music to keep you warm.  Check out these five new artists, and keep coming back for more.

Artist Name:  DJ Lag

Album Name:  Stampit

Label:  Goon Club Allstars

Genre:  Gqom

Track Listing:  1.  3 Step Culo; 2.  Let’s do This; 3.  Drumming; 4.  Switz

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  This is our first encounter with the music genre of “Gqom,” and we find it to be percussion-intensive dance music, originating from South Africa.  DJ Lag is considered the king of this form of music that is taking the European continent by storm, and we can see the appeal.  It is the perfect soundtrack for dance clubs and should definitely be on the radar and in the mixes of all smart DJs.  When you hear this incessant beat, the listener can’t help but get up and dance.  It might also be appropriate for some interesting commercial placements, as this music grabs your attention as it takes over your ears and brain.

Recommendation: Definitely worth checking out, especially if you love to dance.

Artist Name:  Scott Sharrard

Album Name:  Saving Grace

Label:  We Save Music

Genre:  Blues/Southern Rock

Track Listing:  1.  High Cost of Loving You; 2.  Faith to Arise; 3.  Saving Grace; 4.  Everything a Good Man Needs (ft Taj Mahal); 5.  Angeline; 6.  Words Can’t Say; 7.  She Can’t Wait; 8.  Sweet Compromise; 9.  Tell the Truth; 10.  Keep me in Your Heart; 11.  Sentimental Fool

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Grammy-nominated artist Scott Sharrard may be familiar to fans of the Gregg Allman Band, as he served as its Musical Director.  On this amazing solo album, he is joined by some of the best in the business, including Hi Rhythm, The Swampers of Muscle Shoals and Taj Mahal, the latter joining Sharrard on Allman’s last known original tune, “Everything a Good Man Needs.”  The album kicks off with the tune “High Cost of Loving You,” which is the perfect segue between Allman’s southern rock sound and the new bluesy sound of Sharrard.  He follows that up with a beautiful ballad “Faith to Arise” before completing blowing us away with the title track, and everything that follows, including an amazing cover of the Allman Brothers‘ classic, “Angeline.”  This one should appeal to all lovers of southern rock and the blues.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Risky Motion

Album Name:  Wide Open

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Psychedelia/Funk/Groove/Synth

Track Listing:  1.   Get it Going; 2.  Thrillest Night; 3.  Bedrock; 4.  Tranquillamente; 5.  Trip my Play; 6.  Wide Open; 7.  Vilified; 8.  Rise Up; 9.  Bring it Down; 10.  Bring it Down (radio edit)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We introduced you to this incredible band in our Ten Great Singles of September article, and believe us that the rest of the album is just as great.  They have already been named as Artist of the Month at Austin, Texas radio station WUTX, and every other radio station should be adding them as well.  David Rosenboom has truly captured the spirit of Prince in this amazing collection of dance tunes that would likewise be at home on your favorite radio station.  We really love the instrumental intro on “Tranquillamente,” as well as “Get it Going,” “Trip my Play,” “Wide Open,” and “Bring it Down.”

Recommendation:  You need this one in your collection, so hurry out and get it soon!

Artist Name:  Mall Grab

Album Name:  How the Dogs Chill, Vol. 1

Label:  Looking for Trouble

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  Liverpool Street in the Rain; 2.  Bust; 3.  Looking for Trouble; 4.  Get Impetuous

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  Mall Grab lays down some grooves that will definitely get you up and moving towards the dance floor.  His imprint is aptly named, as his music could definitely get you in trouble.  It has such a catchy beat that you will not be able to stop yourself from grooving to it,   This one is just plain fun and should be on the radar for every smart DJ compiling his or her next mix tape.

Recommendation:  Get it and dance!

Artist Name:  Nika Cantabile

Album Name:  Naked Soul Opus 2

Label:  Dance Plant Records

Genre:  Art Rock Fantasy Violin

Track Listing:  1.  Alchemia Story; 2.  Black Clover; 3.  Full Moon; 4.  Magi the Labyrinth of Magic; 5.  Code Ceass – Colors; 6.  Boruto – Naruto Next Generation; 7.  Neon Genesis; 8.  Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso – Hikaru Nara; 9.  Boruto End 5; 10.  Major 2nd; 11.  No Game No Life; 12.  Black Clover End 2; 13.  Shigatsu wa Kimi no Uso – Orange; 14.  The Legend of Zelda – Gerudo Valley; 15.  Laputa the Castle in the Sky; 16.  Shokugeki no Soma San no Sara; 17.  Alchemia Story (acoustic); 18.  Attack on Titan

Publicist:  Presstown PR

Review:  Just when you thought Lindsey Stirling had the market on violin, along comes Montreal virtuoso violinist Nika Cantabile to challenge the queen.  Cantabile is doing for anime music what Stirling has done for pop, and is making this amazing sound quite popular.  We love that the violin is fast becoming an instrument that is truly respected outside of the country/Americana scene, as it is capable of adding so much intensity to any song.  We simply love this album, which is being added to our daily soundtrack, and obviously going on repeat.

Recommendation:  If you love music, you simply must check this one out and Get it today!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – The Herron Brothers, Darto, Evan Jewett, Ash Koosha, Pale People

Happy Wednesday.  Starting a new job today as my summer temp job winds down.  Still plenty of time to bring you five new artists to check out, so let’s get going.

Artist Name:  The Herron Brothers

Album Name:  The Last Ones Left

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Michael Palin; 2.  Don’t let you Down; 3.  Good Guys; 4.  Tall Doors; 5.  Clear Skies; 6.  Edge of the World; 7.  Stuck in the Sun; 8.  The Rest of Us; 9.  Jupiter Calling; 10.  One Dark Moment; 11.  Too far to Run; 12.  California

Publicist:  Lander PR

Review:  The Brits have done it again.  Derby-based band The Herron Brothers bring us some fun, country-tinged pop with lyrics that are very tongue in cheek, and an acoustic sound that gets your motor running.  Their first single, “Don’t Let you Down,” could do well on American radio, and this band could develop quite the following in the States.  We love their sound and can only imagine how much fun their live performance must be.  Their form of pop is reminiscent of The Eagles, with catchy lyrics and melody, and a healthy dose of Britpop influences from the likes of Herman’s Hermits.  There is not a weak song on the album, and we are putting this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  If you love the Britpop sound, then hurry out and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Darto

Album Name:  Fundamental Slime

Label:  Aagoo Records

Genre:  Experimental Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Brotherhood; 2.  Everyday Actor; 3.  Totality; 4.  Persona

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  Seattle’s own Darto bring an experimental/alternative rock sound to their politically-charged and socially-minded lyrics, seeking to encourage people to restore balance to the world around us.  Of the four tracks, “Everyday Actor” is our favorite, with a different sound and feel to the other three tracks.

Recommendation:

Artist Name:  Evan Jewett

Album Name:  Don’t Feel to Work

Label:  Aagoo Records

Genre:  Singer-songwriter/Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Never Stuck; 2.  Don’t Feel to Work; 3.  Pink Grout; 4.  The Blizzard; 5.  Late Bloom; 6.  Hangin; 7.  Alone With You; 8.  Dust Contest; 9.  Hopi Circle; 10.  Clocking Out

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  Evan Jewett’s first solo effort is a hodgepodge of singer-songwriter laments over a soundtrack of alternative rock and intriguing guitar riffs.  He has been consistently compared to Beck, and after listening to the album, we can easily see why.  His music encompasses various styles and his lyrics make you stop and think about their meaning, especially the iconic title track and the lead single, “Pink Grout.”  Other tracks we enjoyed include “The Blizzard,” “Hangin,” and “Clocking Out.”

Recommendation:  This one is worth a listen.

Artist Name:  Ash Koosha

Album Name:  A OK

Label:  Realms

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  A OK

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  The latest from producer Ash Koosha is a 32 minute single that was recorded while he was working on another project, I AKA 1 (Ninja Tune).  The song contains some extremely strange electronic sounds but has an overall soothing and relaxing vibe that makes it suitable for background music during your daily life.  It also contains some interesting quotes about nine minutes in, warning us of a “coming storm.”

Recommendation:  Check it out.

Artist Name:  Pale People

Album Name:  Absent Friends

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Night Atlas; 2.  Homecoming; 3.  Firestarter; 4.  Hail King Lear; 5.  Mercy (I); 6.  For lago; 7.  Underworld; 8.  Flaregun; 9.  The Iceman Cometh; 10.  Inner Space (The Occupation); 11.  Epilogue; 12.  The Other Side of Mercy (II); 13.  Absent Friends

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Pale People is a local Missoula, Montana band which we reviewed back in April 2017 when they released their album, Portraits.  Since then they have released The World is Yours and just recently Absent Friends.  The overall sound is still uniquely weird, and we love it.  The musicianship is top notch, and while the vocals will not win them an award, the lyrics are strangely interesting on top of that amazing soundtrack.  Best tracks include “Firestarter,” “Mercy,” “For lago,” “Underworld,” “Flaregun,” “The Iceman Cometh,” “Epilogue” and “The Other Side of Mercy.”

Recommendation:  Give this one an extended listen.  It will grow on you.

 

 

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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!

 

 

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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!

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Amnesia Scanner, Everlast, decker., Baby Jey, Saint Slumber

By the time you read this I will be on the road to Denver for the Durango Songwriters Expo.  We think you will love these artists, including the long-awaiting return of rock/hip-hop icon Everlast.  Let’s get started.

Artist Name:  Amnesia Scanner

Album Name:  Another Life

Label:  PAN

Genre:  Experimental performance art

Track Listing:  1.  Symmetribal; 2.  Unlinear (ft Pan Daijing); 3.  A.W.O.L.; 4.  Another Life; 5.  Daemon; 6.  Too Wrong; 7.  Spectacult (ft Oracle); 8.  Faceless; 9.  Chain; 10.  Securitaz; 11.  Chaos (ft Pan Daijing); 12.  Rewild

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  This concept might work as a live performance piece, but it does not work as an album.  The “music” pushes the limits of tolerance, especially the first two track.  Beginning with “A.W.O.L,” it begins to sound more like music that you don’t mind listening to.  Unfortunately, the voice distortion on the title track quickly begins to irritate your ears, making it extremely difficult to continue listening,

Recommendation:  Unless you’re in the mood for some extreme performance art that stretches the border of what we consider “music,” we recommend you just forget this one.

Artist Name:  Everlast

Album Name:  Everlast Presents Whitey Ford’s House of Pain

Label:   Martyr-Inc Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock/Soul/Blues/Hip-Hop

Track Listing:  1.  One of Us; 2.  The Culling; 3.  It Ain’t Easy; 4.  The Climb (Interlude); 5.  The Climb; 6.  Slow Your Roll (ft Aloe Blacc); 7.  Smokin’ & Drinkin’; 8.  Ooooohh (I Don’t Need You (ft Slug); 9.  Summer Rain (Interlude); 10.  Summer Rain; 11.  Don’t Complain; 12.  Break it Down; 13.  Break it Down (Interlude); 14.  HeartBeat; 15.  Dream Slate

Publicist:  MSO PR

Review:  Returning with a new studio album after a seven-year absence, Everlast aka Whitey Ford returns to reclaim his rightful place as one of the most diverse and unique artists in today’s music scene.  He shows his soulful sound on “One of Us” before spitting rapid-fire rhymes on the politically charged “The Culling.”  The autobiographical “It Ain’t Easy” debuted in Rolling Stone, and it is a masterpiece that would work well on the radio.  You can feel the passion in his voice and tell that he is singing from the heart.  That passion continues on “The Climb.”  He joins with Aloe Blacc for the soulful hip-hop sound of “Slow Your Roll” and closes out the album with the amazing song “Break it Down.”

Recommendation:  You simply MUST have this one – Get it!

Artist Name:  decker.

Album Name:  Born to Wake Up

Label:  Royal Potato Family

Genre:  Folk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  No Beginning, No End (Intro); 2.  The Strawman; 3.  Burnin Grass; 4.  The Garden; 5.  The Matador; 6.  Awake; 7.  Smudge; 8.  Mexico; 9.  The Saint; 10.  No End, No Beginning (Outro)

Publicist:  Royal Potato Family

Review:  decker. is a gifted songwriter who knows how to deliver his more intimate thoughts in a folk/rock medium that entices the listener to pay attention and learn.  He displays a great depth of musical character, and his music runs the gamut of singer-songwriter to pop-rock band.  Best cuts include “Burnin Grass,” their creative cover of “The Garden,” “The Matador,” “Awake,” “Mexico” and “The Saint.”

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you just Get this one!

Artist Name:  Baby Jey

Album Name:  Someday Cowboy

Label:  Maintenance Records

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Hannah Holliday’s Son; 2.  U Don’t Have 2 go Alone; 3.  Toboggan; 4.  Someday my Space Cowboy Will Come; 5.  Hundred Percent; 6.  Bernice Kentner; 7.  Teach me 2 Forget; 8.  Every Thing; 9.  I Accept

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  What do you get when you cross a hip-hop producer with two singer-songwriters?  You get the amazing album Someday Cowboy, the latest from Baby Jey (Jeremy Witten and Dean Kheroufi).   From the first notes of “Hannah Holliday’s Son,” it becomes quickly quite obvious that this is not your normal singer-songwriter angst – this is undeniably just fun and upbeat alternative pop music, which is just screaming to be played on the radio.  It takes the chill factor all the way to 10, and deserves to be put on repeat.  Every song is worthy.

Recommendation:  You NEED this one in your music library – run out and Get it.

Artist Name:  Saint Slumber

Album Name:  Youth//2

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Stay Away; 2.  I Think I Like You; 3.  Marrow; 4.  Coast; 5.  Infinite

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  This year has been a great one for Saint Slumber.  We featured the video for their single “Infinite” on September 10, and immediately knew that this band was on the rise.  It appears we were right because they recently played the iHeart Radio 104.5 Birthday Bash as well as the Monolith Tour with the likes of 30 Seconds to Mars, Portugal, the Man and Walk the Moon, in addition to being chosen for performances by SoFar Sounds and Balcony TV.    The sky is the limit for this band, and we wouldn’t be surprised to see them at next year’s Grammy Awards.  All five songs are amazing, and don’t be surprised to hear them pumping from your local radio station.

Recommendation:  Sell whatever you can and Get a ticket onboard this train before it leaves the station.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – David J, The Heiz, Jim Allchin, Future Thieves, SNEW

Looks like winter is definitely on its way, as we have snow forecast for next week.  We are heading down to Denver tomorrow and looking forward to reconnecting with industry friends and indie musicians from around the country at the annual Durango Songwriters Expo.  Should be a great weekend.  In the meantime, here are five artists to check out.

Artist Name:  David J

Album Name:  Crocodile Tears and the Velvet Cosh

Label:  Glass Modern

Genre:  Singer-Songwriter Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Crocodile Tears and the Velvet Cosh; 2.  Too Clever by Half; 3.  The First Incision; 4.  Imitation Pearls; 5.  Light and Shade; 6.  René; 7.  Stop This City; 8.  Justine; 9.  The Ballad of Cain; 10.  The Vandal and the Saint; 11.  Boats; 12.  Slip the Rope; 13.  Greener

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  David J founded the gothic/post-punk alternative music band Bauhaus 40 years ago, and is now returning to his solo roots with the reissue of Crocodile Tears and the Velvet Cosh, released in 1985.  The album has been remastered and remixed and feels fresh, with a style similar to Al Stewart and early Tom Petty.  The entire album has a very mellow, jazzy folk feel, which is so different from the sound of Bauhaus.  The sax on the title cut and “The First Incision” is magnificent, as is the rest of the instrumentation on this album, which retains that 80s vibe but with a reinvigorated feel that makes the album feel like it was just recorded.  Check out the timely lyrics of “Stop This City” – it’s almost as if they were written based on recent events.

Recommendation:  Definitely add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  The Heiz

Album Name:  The Gun

Label:  SquidHat Records

Genre:  Punk/Rock

Track Listing: 1.  Dr. Rock n Roll; 2.  Good Good News; 3.  Soul Satisfaction; 4.  Taco Mambo; 5.  The Louder the Better; 6.  The Gun; 7.  I’m Starving Now; 8.  Excuse Me; 9.  Steak Steak Steak; 10.  White Cadillac; 11.  Chicken Bone; 12.  Remember (Walking in the Sand); 13.  Sabre Dance; 14.  Bad Medicine

Publicist:  SquidHat Records

Review:  The Heiz combine old fashioned rock and roll sensibilities with a more modern punk energy to create a special blend of music that has established them as a true voice in the underground scene and made their first two singles, “Good Good News” and “I’m Starving Now” instant classics.  We really love the switched off lead vocals, which keep the music fresh, and the entire album worthy of your attention.  This is just plain fun to listen to, and we plan to listen to it over and over.

Recommendation:  Go. Get. This. One.

Artist Name:  Jim Allchin

Album Name:  Prime Blues

Label:  Sandy Key Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Give it Up; 2.  Devil Don’t Sleep; 3.  Voodoo Doll; 4.  Snuggle Up; 5.  Jim’s Boogie; 6.  Summer Sunrise; 7.  Enough is Enough; 8.  Found the Blues; 9.  Two Bad Dreams; 10.  Pawn Shop Man; 11.  Lost my Mind; 12;  Up to Destiny; 13.  Tech Blues; 14.  Logoff

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Jim Allchin is the consummate blues guitarist and vocalist.  His brand of the blues is strong, energetic and funky, with impressive horns that complement his voice and guitar riffs.  He also put a lot of thought into his lyrics, which make his music stand out from his peers.  “Give it Up” for “Jim’s Boogie” while you watch the “Summer Sunrise.”  “Enough is Enough” – put away your “Voodoo Doll” and just “Snuggle Up” because you have “Found the Blues” and it won’t give you “Two Bad Dreams” because the “Devil Don’t Sleep.”

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, you must have this album in your collection.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  Future Thieves

Album Name:  Future Thieves

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Online; 2.  Machines; 3.  Dark Spin; 4.  Prom Night; 5.  Same Things; 6.  Drive; 7.  Concha; 8.  Loneliest Time; 9.  Lost in my Head; 10.  On the Run; 11.  Over

Publicist:  Self-promoted/Right Angle PR (tour)

Review:  Welcome to the next big thing.  Future Thieves offer a positive alternative pop format with meaningful lyrics, great vocals and a beat that would sound perfect on the radio.  This album is chock full of potential hits and sounds a lot like all the things we love in Phil Collins and Genesis.  These songs deserve to be played on repeat, and are also perfect for placement opportunities in commercials, television and film, as well as heavy rotation on college radio stations, especially “Drive.”  These guys have a definite future – catch them on their upcoming tour.

Recommendation:  Jump on  this bandwagon NOW and Get their album today!

Artist Name:  SNEW

Album Name:  You’ve Got Some Nerve

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  UR Freaking me Out; 2.  Holy Hell; 3.  Acetylene Queen; 4.  Put Upon; 5.  Sharpie; 6.  You Tell Me; 7.  Something New Everybody Wants; 8.  Revolution is a Closed Loop; 9.  You’ve Got Some Nerve

Publicist:  Guitars Forever Marketing & Promotion

Review:  SNEW has been not so quietly staking its claim as the successors to the legacy left by such famous Hollywood Strip bands as Guns n’ Roses, Poison, Motley Crüe, AC-DC and Steel Panther with their fourth studio release, You’ve Got Some Nerve.  The album hits the ground at a furious pace with the band’s first single, “UR Freaking me Out,” and doesn’t slow down from there.  There isn’t a weak track on the album, and we love them all, especially that amazing first single.  We suggest you put this one on repeat and TURN IT UP!

Recommendation:  If high energy, hard driving rock is your thing, then don’t miss this one.  We strongly recommend you Get it before it’s gone.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Roan Yellowthorn, Mountain Home Family, Stephen Winston, Animal Waves, TAUK

We made it to Friday again, and the weekend is ahead.  Time to get revved up with five more incredible releases from indie artists, including a collective of Mountain Home Music Company artists helping to raise money for the International Bluegrass Music Association Trust Fund.  All of these albums are being released today!

Artist Name:  Roan Yellowthorn

Album Name:  Indigo

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Alternative/Pop/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Intro; 2.  Talk About It; 3.  Fingerless Gloves; 4.  Factory Man; 5.  Do you Know; 6.  Mark my Words; 7.  Lie; 8.  Indigo; 9.  How are You; 10.  Outro/On the Outside

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  We simply love this amazing duo and future superstars, one of the latest artists launched by the magic of Blue Élan Records.  They are composed of Jackie McLean on lead vocals, accompanied by producer and multi-instrumentalist Shawn Strack, and they deliver amazing and ethereal indie-rock songs with a singer/songwriter heart.   We have previously featured the videos from their first two singles, “Talk About It” and “Lie,” and this album is chock full of future singles.  This is a band that is going to be talked about for a long time to come.   Had they been around a few years ago, they could easily have been part of The Hotel Cáfe sound that produced Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Elizaveta and others, and we consider them to be true peers of those artists.  There is not a weak track on this album, and every one could be a potential hit.  They are worthy of attention from both radio music directors and music supervisors.  Our favorite tracks include “Talk About it,” “Fingerless Gloves,” “Do You Know,” “Lie,” the title track, and “How are You.”

Recommendation:  This one NEEDS to be in your collection.  Run out and Get it.

Artist Name:  Mountain Home Family

Album Name:  Come See About Me

Label:  Mountain Home Music Company

Genre:  Bluegrass

Track Listing:  1.  Their Hands Made the Music (Sideline); 2.  A Little Trust (Donna Ulisse); 3.  All the Good Things we Could Do (Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver); 4.  If I Needed You (Lonesome River Band); 5.  We’re all in This Together (Balsam Range); 6.  You’ve got a Friend in Me (Love Canon); 7.  We’ll Never Walk Alone (Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver); 8.  Those Tears (Darin & Brooke Aldridge); 9.  Glimpse of the Kingdom (Chris Jones & the Night Drivers); 10.  Help! (The Grascals); 11.  Come see About Me (Mountain Home Family)

Publicist:  So Much Moore Media

Review:  Mountain Home Music Company is a bluegrass label that has introduced us to some incredible artists we have previously reviewed, including Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Balsam Range and The Grascals.  Their artists have joined together to contribute these amazing tracks on an album intended to help raise money for the International Bluegrass Music Association (IBMA) Trust Fund, which provides financial assistance to member musicians who have fallen on hard times or have emergency needs.  This collection includes some amazing songs, including brilliant covers of songs like “You’ve Got a Friend in Me” and “Help!” as well as the collaborative title track.   We have indicated the individual artists in the Track Listing.

Recommendation:  Please help support this worthy organization and Get this one today!  It will easily become one of your favorite bluegrass albums.

Artist Name:  Stephen Winston

Album Name:  Unresolved

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  AAA

Track Listing:  1.  Sun on the Boats; 2.  Maidens; 3.  Unresolved; 4.  Rainbow County; 5.  Maybe it’s for James; 6.  For What Purpose; 7.  Remember; 8.  Talk on the Town; 9.  The Last Night

Publicist:  Open all Nite Entertainment

Review:  Stephen Winston is a gifted musician with a voice that reminds us of Randy Newman, and a sound that encompasses several different genres including country, pop, and folk, all perfect for the AAA format.  The title track is especially moving, with perfect lyrics set on an orchestral musical base that is soothing and memorable.  “Rainbow County” has a sound similar to Jimmy Buffet‘s “Cheeseburger in Paradise,” while “Maidens” has a sweet country groove.  Overall, this is a great collection for your chill time.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you check out this one if you like your music on the softer side.

Artist Name:  Animal Waves

Album Name:  EP1

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  WTF; 2.  In the Meadow; 3.  Cold Turkey; 4.  Bed Full of Blues; 5.  Tell Me

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  This band features Los Angeles session player and former Laurynn Hill guitarist Robert Wayne Davis, and quickly establishes itself as a force to be reckoned with.  The band also includes bassist Charles Salvaggio and drummer Matt Zavorski, while long-time writing partner Nathaniel Cox contributed on the creative side.  The result is some straight ahead rock that you can bang your head to.  This band obviously has a “take no prisoners” approach as they come right at you with their hard rocking sound, delivering songs that will leave a permanent impression on your ears.

Recommendation:  If you love rock, then you simply must Get this one.

Artist Name:  TAUK

Album Name:  Shapeshifter II:  Outbreak

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock Fusion Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Prelude; 2.  Recreational Outrage; 3.  CMF 9000; 4.  Checkmate; 5.  Convoy; 6.  Not Your Nemesis; 7.  Let it Ride; 8.  Ratchet; 9.  Pioneer; 10.  Pitter Pattern; 11.  Upside Down

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We previously reviewed the first album in the series, and were impressed with the amazing new jazz sound of the band.  This time around, the music has a rockier sound, with its combination of prog rock, funk and jazz, and is much more cinematic in its overall vibe.  Like the previous release, this one provides an amazing soundtrack for parties, exercise or just living life.  In addition, the music is perfect for placement in commercials, film and television.  We think you should just put it on repeat and listen all day, as there are no weak tracks on the album.  We also can’t wait to review their live performance when they come to Missoula on November 6.

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 – Down North, Johnaye Kendrick, Hybrid, Jack Drag, Erik Deutsch

Happy Thursday.  Next week at this time we’ll be attending the Durango Songwriters Expo in Denver, and we can’t wait.  In the meantime, here are five more artists to check out.

Artist Name:  Down North

Album Name:  No Retreat, Vol. I

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Soul/Funk

Track Listing:  1.  Heartbreaker; 2.  So What; 3.  Eventually; 4.  Stupid Man; 5.  Hollywood

Publicist:  Wolfson Entertainment

Review:  Soul and funk are two of our favorite jams, and Down North has this genre locked up, delivering a rousing five-song EP that will definitely get you moving and grooving to the beat.  Their music is also radio friendly, and would make the perfect placement for party scenes on television and movies.  You can’t go wrong with any of these tunes, so put this one on repeat and get up and boogie.  The lead singer’s vocals sound like a mixture of James Brown and Prince, and add a lot to the mix.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  Johnaye Kendrick

Album Name:  Flying

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Never you Mind; 2.  Fallen; 3.  It Could Happen to You; 4.  You Two; 5.  The Very Thought of You; 6.  I’ve got no Strings; 7.  Scorpion; 8.  The Lonely One; 9.  3X5; 10.  Secrets; 11.  Boxed Wine; 12.  Flying

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Johnaye Kendrick is a graduate of the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, where she learned from the best in the trade, including Herbie Hancock,  Apparently, she mastered the art, because her latest album delivers music that is as good as  the music of her instructors.  She has assembled an incredible array of musicians to help her on this project, including Dawn Clement on piano and Nord, Chris Symer on bass, D’Vonne Lewis on drums and percussion, Michael Nicolella on guitar on the title track and Adore and Nola Oliver on backing vocals on “You Two.”  Kendrick also arranged and produced the album, composed six of the tracks, and contributed her talents on harmonium.  This album definitely belongs in the musical library of every true jazz lover.  We especially love her arrangements on “The Very Thought of You” and “I’ve Got no Strings.”

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Hybrid

Album Name:  Light of the Fearless

Label:  Distinctive

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  We are Fearless; 2.  Hold Your Breath; 3.  Superpower; 4.  Down to the Wire; 5.  Usual Rules; 6.  Light Up; 7.  Beauty Queen; 8.  Shaking; 9.  Long Time Coming; 10.  I Won’t Back Down

Publicist:  Send to Media

Review:  Mike and Charlotte Truman are a pair of UK-based film score composers who are also amazing artists in their own right.  They have worked on a plethora of film scores, including Fast and Furious 8, Interlude in Prague, Hercules, Luther, X-men, and Deja Vu, to name a few.  They have also included The Prague Philharmonic Orchestra on this project, as well as tackled and delivered a brilliant cover of Tom Petty‘s “I Won’t Back Down.”  All in all, it rocks!  Favorite tracks include “Hold Your Breath,” “Down to the Wire,” “Light Up,” “Beauty Queen,” and “I Won’t Back Down.”

Recommendation:  This one will make an excellent addition to your music collection.  Get it.

Artist Name:  Jack Drag

Album Name:  2018

Label:  Burger Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  New Number One; 2.  I am not Willing; 3.  Hope Revisited; 4.  Little Lies; 5.  Bloody Noses; 6.  Strangers; 7.  I Suppose; 8.  Spirits; 9.  Marigolds; 10.  Chelsea Moon

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  John Dragonetti aka Jack Drag brings us an upbeat and radio friendly collection of songs about many of the same issues we’ve all been through this year, including the universal themes of hope, despair and uncertainty.  Besides this amazing collection of tunes, Dragonetti has also been working on composing music for film and television, including the movie All About Nina.  Best tracks include “New Number One,” “Little Lies,” “Bloody Noses,” “Strangers,” and “Chelsea Moon.”

Recommendation:  If you’re one of us who can smile even when we’re going through pain, then this is the album for you.  We highly recommend you go Get it.

Artist Name:  Erik Deutsch

Album Name:  Falling Flowers

Label:  LoHi Records

Genre:  Jazz/Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Jump Change; 2.  Ghostfeather; 3.  Falling Flowers; 4.  Scratch  Out; 5.  Little Bell; 6.  Big Bongos; 7.  Amor Eterno; 8.  Mel’s Drive In; 9.  Tiny Lion

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Erik Deutsch is a keyboardist, band leader and collaborator, and has worked with a myriad of artists from Roseanne Cash, Shooter Jennings and Shelby Lynne to Norah Jones.  He was also a member of Leftover Salmon.  His sixth album is a cornucopia of goodness, with upbeat jazz and blues tunes that have a hint of the islands in their sound, and which would make a great soundtrack for those times when you just want to hear some great instrumental music.  We think this is one of the best jazz blends we have encountered this year, and can’t say enough about just how good it is.

Recommendation:  Don’t stop until you Get this one.