Tag: Jack Tempchin

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 3

Happy Martin Luther King Day!  We had a blast last night at The Wilma in Missoula, where we were introduced to an LA band called Bikini Trill who was opening for Reel Big Fish and Tony Lovato and MEST.  We recently reviewed Reel Big Fish’s new album, and had previously reviewed MEST back in December 2017.   MEST also won the LA Music Critic Award for Best Folk Band for that album for the second half of 2017.  We will have the full review of last night’s concert soon.  In the meantime, here are five new singles and music videos from the indie world.

JACK TEMPCHIN ELECTED TO SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME

Blue Élan Records artist Jack Tempchin is part of the Class of 2019 and will be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame on June 13 in New York City.  He wrote a plethora of songs that we’ve all danced and sung along to, including the Eagles’ “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” “Tequila Sunrise,” and “Already Gone,” Glenn Frey’s “The One You Love,” “Smuggler’s Blues,” “You Belong To The City” and “Sexy Girl,” and Johnny Rivers‘ “Slow Dancing.”

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from an amazing 15-year old future superstar named Bella Rios.  She received a nomination in the recent LA Music Critic Awards for Rising Star, and we guarantee this artist is on her way to the top of the charts.  Check out her latest single, “Under the Waves.”

Our second single is from another LA Music Critic Awards winner, Rod Melancon, who is a member of the Blue Élan Records family.  His latest song, “Goin’ Out West,” is a harder rocking Americana song that he usually does, and we totally dig it.

Our next single is likewise from a multiple LA Music Critic Award winner, who we hope will perform in our next Winners Showcase.  We have followed the career of Curtis Peoples for many years, and his latest single, “Tidal Wave,” is one of his best, and features the beautiful vocals of Holy Wars.  Let us know what you think.

Our fourth single is from another member of the Blue Élan Records family, who has recently rebranded herself and now goes by the name of Car Astor.  This one will get you up and dancing into the new week.  Check out “Don’t Stop, Don’t Speak.”

Our final single today is from another multiple LA Music Critic Award winning duo, Lovers & Poets.  We are also providing the bitmoji video they did for their latest offering, “Here and Now.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is a beautifully made lyric video for “Do What you Want,” the latest from the phenomenally talented Jess McAvoy.  Check this one out.

We don’t often post cover videos, but this one is so good that we had to share and features Fuel on Fire, one of the rising young pop bands from Nashville.  Check out their cover of U2‘s monster hit, “With or Without You, featuring the amazing children’s choir at Homer Pittard Campus School.  We’ll have a review of their cover album shortly.

Our third video is from steampunk-influenced singer-songwriter Elyssa Vulpes for her single “Front Line.”  We think this one could become an anthem for so many causes.

Our next video is from the collaborative efforts of the Americana Kitchen Band.  Check out this video for their single “All Dressed Up (and Nowhere to Go).”  This one will give you the strength to make it through the new week.

We close out this week with the latest video from Blues/Rock superstar guitarist Eric McFadden, “While You Was Gone.”  This one will surely give you a head start on the next great weekend.  Have a great week and we’ll see soon.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 44

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

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS SUPPORTS ALLIANCE FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS

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

REBELLE ROAD RECORDS TO RELEASE NEW ALICE WALLACE ALBUM

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

NEW SINGLES

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

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

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

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

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

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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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.

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 Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – The Sherlocks, Channel 3, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Jack Tempchin

It’s another beautiful weekend in Missoula, and we’ve been enjoying the River City Roots Festival.  Yesterday we had the pleasure of hearing amazing reggae from Taj Weekes and Adowa, rocking country from Ryan Shupe and the Rubber Band, and traditional bluegrass from John Jorgenson Bluegrass Band.  Watch for our review of the festival, but first, here are four more great artists to check out.

Artist Name:  The Sherlocks

Album Name:  Live for the Moment

Label:  Infectious Records/BMG

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Will you be There?; 2.  Live for the Moment; 3.  Escapade; 4.  Chasing Shadows; 5. Blue; 6.  Nobody Knows; 7.  Was it Really Worthy It?; 8.  Turn the Clock; 9.  Last Night; 10.  Heart of Gold; 11.  Motions; 12.  Candlelight

Publicist:  The End Records PR

Review:  British band The Sherlocks have released their debut album, and it is a rocking masterpiece.  With swirling guitar riffs, a steady beat and incredible vocals, these guys have come to rock.  From the first note of the first track, they bring their brand of indie rock to bear, and show that they mean business.  The music gets better with every track, resulting in an album that will definitely keep their listeners tuned in and engaged.  Their music would make a fine addition to the airplay lists of American radio, and gives a glimpse of the awesomeness that is sure to come on their upcoming UK tour.  Hopefully they will cross the pond soon, because America needs this level of music.  Best tracks include “Will you be There?,” the title track, “Chasing Shadows,” “Blue,” and “Nobody Knows,” although the entire album is worthy of repeated listens.

Recommendation:  Check out the latest amazing British band, and be the first to Get it in America.  You’ll be glad you did.

Artist Name:  Channel 3 (“CH3”)

Album Name:  Put ‘Em Up

Label:  TKO Records

Genre:  Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Model Citizen; 2.  Water & Time; 3.  Put ’em Up; 4.  She Never Wanted it This Way; 5.  Half the Day; 6.  Not That it Matters; 7.  The God That you Deserve; 8.  Blue Skies; 9.  All the Night; 10.  Take me to Your Leader

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  The latest album from veteran Los Angeles punk band CH3 is a concept album focusing on post-election America, and is heralded as a career-defining album.  This band has something to say about the state of Trump America, and uses the angst of punk music to tell their story.  The band will be coming off their It’s Not Dead Festival appearance to release this album before heading out on a national tour this fall.  Their message is timely, and told in a manner that should help them spread that message.  The album is reminiscent of The Ramones and the Dropkick Murphys but presented in a manner that will entice most music lovers to check them out.  This album needs to be experienced from start to finish, and then reheard again and again.  Some of the strongest tracks include “Model Citizen,” the title track, “She Never Wanted it This Way,” “Half the Day,” and the rousing final track, “Take me to Your Leader.”

Recommendation:  This album has the goods, both lyrically and musically, and simply must be added to your musical library.  Get it now!

Artist Name:  Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver

Album Name:  Life is a Story

Label:  Crossroads/Mountain Home Records

Genre:  Bluegrass

Track Listing:  1.  Kids These Days; 2.  Little Girl; 3.  Life of a Hard Workin’ Man; 4.  Life to my Days; 5.  I see a Heartbreak Comin’; 6.  Guitar Case; 7.  What am I Looking For; 8.  Bluegrass Blues; 9.  Derailed; 10.  Love Lives Again; 11.  Cry Across Kansas; 12.  Drivin’ it Home

Publicist:  So Much Moore Media

Review:  With a sound reminiscent of Alabama meets Nickel Creek, Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver take us on a musical journey through life.  The songs are well crafted, with lyrics that tell a story, and the perfect blend of banjo, fiddle, mandolin and vocals that immediately get the listener’s attention, appealing to both the musically and lyrically inclined audience.  From the upbeat opening track, “Kids These Days,” through the end of the album, every song delivers a part of the story of life.  Their cover of John Michael Montgomery’s “Little Girl” is phenomenal, capturing all the beauty of the original with that perfect blend of fiddle, mandolin and banjo.  In fact every song is worthy of your attention, putting this album firmly into consideration for best Bluegrass album of 2017.

Recommendation:  One of the best bluegrass albums we have reviewed this year, and will appeal to most music lovers.  We strongly recommend you Get this album – your collection is lacking without it.

Artist Name:  Jack Tempchin

Album Name:  Peaceful Easy Feeling (The Songs of Jack Tempchin)

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Peaceful Easy Feeling; 2.  Part of me, Part of You; 3.  Slow Dancing (ft. Rita Coolidge); 4.  The one you Love; 5.  Soul Searchin’ (ft. Janiva Magness); 6.  Already Gone (ft. Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen); 7.  Privacy; 8.  Everybody’s Gonna Love Someone Tonight; 9.  Party Town; 10.  It’s Your World Now (ft. Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen); 11.  Somebody; 12.  I Found Somebody (ft. Janiva Magness); 13.  I did it for Your Love; 14.  You Belong to the City

Publicist:  GBL Media Management

Review:  Who doesn’t love the Eagles?  Jack Tempchin is the songwriter behind some of their greatest songs, and he shares his version of several of those hits on his latest release.  From the dreamy classics “Peaceful Easy Feeling” and “Already Gone” to the Glenn Frey hits “You Belong to the City,” “The One You Love, and “Soul Searchin’,” Tempchin shows why those songs have become so timeless and well-loved.  He also includes the rocking and previously unreleased song,” Privacy,” the last song he wrote with Glenn Frey before he passed.  This is an album chock-full of some of the greatest ballads every written, and even includes a beautiful duet with Rita Coolidge on Johnny Rivers’ hit “Slow Dancing.”  Other artists that share songs with Tempchin on this masterpiece include Grammy-nominated blues artist Janiva Magness, The Byrds’ Chris Hillman and Herb Pedersen.  We also love the bluegrass sound that Pedersen adds to “Already Gone.”

Recommendation:  If you buy only one album this year, then this is the album to buy.  It is an instant classic and you need to Get it now!

 

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Monday Mashup

Monday Mashup 2017: Vol. 2

Welcome to week two of 2017!  We’ve gotten almost a foot of snow in the past 24 hours, but at least the thermometer has returned to positive numbers.  Hope you’re all ready to get out and support indie music.  Here’s the latest news:

NAMM INVADES SOCAL

The NAMM Show invades Anaheim for its annual January visit, opening to the press on January 18 and to the attendees January 19-22.  The event is NOT open to the public, but thanks to the hotels outside the Anaheim Convention Center, the public can attend some of the musical performances put on by attendees.  For a look at this year’s schedule, click here.  If you are an indie musician and are playing at NAMM, please let us know so we can publish your schedule next Monday.  We attended the convention for many years until we moved to Montana, and hope to get back there soon.

THE WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL MUSIC NETWORK PRESENT THEIR ANNUAL SHE ROCKS AWARDS

This year’s She Rocks Awards will be handed out in a ceremony on January 20 at this year’s NAMM Show.    This is the fifth year of the awards, and this year’s recipients will include  Lita Ford, Shirley Manson, Esperanza Spaulding, Monique Boyer of M.A.C Cosmetics, Rebecca Eaddy of Roland Corporation, Beverly Fowler of PRS Guitars, LA radio personality Lisa Foxx, Charyn Harris of A Place Called Home, Karrie Keyes of Soundgirls & sound engineer for Pearl Jam, Tracy Leenman of Musical Innovations, Dani Markman of Disney Music Group, and Leanne Summers of Los Angeles Women in Music.   The event will be hosted by KTTV Fox 11’s own Christine Devine.

JAMEY GESTON TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE

Speaking of NAMM, Geston has been playing NAMM since she was a teenager, and is releasing her new single, “Malibu,” to coincide with next week’s convention.  We have previewed the single, and it is HOT.  We think you’ll like it a lot.

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS ARTISTS TO PLAY AT HOTEL CAFE

On January 22, the Hotel Café will play host to two of the premiere artists from Blue Élan Records:  former Eagles songwriter Jack Tempchin and Cindy Alexander, who will open with a solo acoustic show at 7 p.m.  Tempchin is performing a residency on the intimate Second Stage, and had Grammy-nominee Janiva Magness as well as Chelsea Williams open for him last night.  Don’t miss this opportunity to see and hear some of the best music LA has to offer, and catch the rest of Tempchin’s January residency at Hotel Café.

Have a wonderful week.  We can’t wait to announce the winners of the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2016, and be ready for a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT in the very near future about a special event happening in LA in June.  Until then . . .