Tag: LA Music Critic Awards

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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 Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – VNV Nation, Big Lonely, Younger Then, Phony Ppl, Nuela Charles

Happy Giving Tuesday.  If you are so inclined, there are a number of worthy charities out there that need your support.  We have posted links to several on our Facebook pages, and encourage you to help others at this time of the year.  To sweeten the deal, we have five more great artists for you to check out as we wind down submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018:

Artist Name:  VNV Nation

Album Name:  Noir

Label:  Metropolis Records

Genre:  Alternative/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  A Million; 2.  Armour; 3.  God of All; 4.  Nocturne No. 7; 5.  Collide; 6.  Wonders; 7.  Immersed; 8.  Lights go Out; 9.  Guiding; 10.  When is the Future; 11.  Only Satellites; 12.  Requiem for Wires; 13.  All our Sins

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  If ever there was an album that was custom-built for placement opportunities in film and television, this is it.  The sound is majestic, sweeping and cinematic, with a driving dance beat that would easily also make a great source for house music DJs.  This one takes off from the first notes of “A Million” and never lets up, building to a stunning conclusion.  There is obvious influence from The Cure, especially on “God of All.”  This album truly delivers a great listen from start to finish.  We also love the piano instrumental “Nocturne No. 7,” and the string instrumental “Guiding,” which are a total change of pace from the rest of the album.  We wish them well on their North American tour.

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – Get this one!

Artist Name:  Big Lonely

Album Name:  Bad Magic

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Just Lose; 2.  Butter on Ice; 3.  Dreamboat; 4.  A Place I’ve Never Been To; 5.  Don’t Fool me Twice; 6.  All at Once; 7.  Ticket; 8.  Up my Sleeve; 9.  Bad Magic

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Canadian band Big Lonely incorporates some Southern Rock guitar into their indie rock style to create memorable music with a retro vibe.  Their music could easily work on American Top 40 and college radio, and we bet their live show is just as dynamic.  “Dreamboat” has a Roy Orbison vibe  You’ll want to listen to this one from start to finish, cause there are no weak tracks.  Enjoy the reflective vibe.

Recommendation:  A definite add to your collection – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Younger Then

Album Name:  Bad Life

Label:  Standby Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  All in All; 2.  Lonely Holy; 3.  California King; 4.  Sarah Told Them; 5.  Cherry Glaze; 6.  Sweetest; 7.  Sundazed; 8.  Bad Life; 9.  Luna; 10.  Wishing Tree; 11.  Seasick

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:   With a sound somewhere between Kings of Leon and U2, Younger Then burst forth from their humble Buffalo to take on the world of indie rock, and they truly have the goods to make a lasting impression.  They have already gained a healthy reputation for their live shows, and now they have a CD that captures that energy and style and showcases it to the rest of the world.  There is so much good stuff on this 11-song album that everyone should be able to find a favorite.  For us, we love them all, and will give this quite a few listens from start to finish.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Phony Ppl

Album Name: mō’zā-ik.

Label:  300 Entertainment

Genre:  Soul/Funk/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Way too Far; 2.  Once you say Hello; 3.  Something About you Love; 4.  Cookie Crumble; 5.  The Colours; 6.  One Man Band; 7.  Think You’re Mine; 8.  Move her Mind; 9.  Before you get a Boyfriend; 10.  Either Way; 11.  On Everything I Love

Publicist:  No Big Deal PR

Review:  Phony Ppl is already receiving critical praise from folks like NPR Music, and it quickly becomes obvious that this band cannot be placed in a box according to genre.  Their music encompasses soul, funk, R&B, jazz, rap, and more, with incredible harmonies, and a seamless chemistry that makes it sound more like a jam session than a scripted song.  In truth, the songwriting could use some work, as stretching out the lyrics makes them become obnoxious at times and takes away from the beauty of the music.   Best tracks include “Cookie Crumble,” “Move Her Mind,” their first single/video “Before you Get a Boyfriend,” “Either Way” and “On Everything I Love.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Nuela Charles

Album Name:  Distant Danger

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alternative/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Troublemaker; 2.  Danger; 3.  Forecast; 4.  Do it Right; 5.  Sugar; 6.  March On

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  We featured her video for “Danger” in our Ten Amazing Videos of October, and the same single in one of our Monday Mashup articles in September.   Believe us when we tell you this lady has the goods to rule the soul/R&B charts and radio.  We simply love her sense of style, her songwriting and her incredible voice, which are truly personified in her song “Danger.”  All six songs are great and this artist deserves a spot on your repeat button.  We can’t wait to hear what comes next, as she has earned a permanent place in our hearts.

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

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 42

As we enter Thanksgiving week, Indie Voice Blog has so much to be thankful for.  It took us almost 27 months to reach our first 40,000 views.  In the past 12 months, we have doubled that number, with the majority of those views coming in January 2018 (9,098) and June 2018 (10,066).  As of this morning, we are sitting at 81,339 views, and expect to reach 90,000 by the end of the year.  Thanks to all the amazing artists who have submitted their music, and to the fabulous fans that continue to read our blog.

We’ve got a great week planned for you, including a special edition of Get it or Forget it featuring new Christmas music on Thanksgiving Day.  In addition, the nominations for the second half of 2018 will be announced on December 7, and we think it is our best group so far.  Here are five new singles and music videos to get your week off to a great start.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the latest from Blue Élan Records artist Mint Trip.  Check out their sweet single “Jump Rope.”  We continue to love everything this band puts out.

Our next single is also courtesy of Blue Élan Records, this time from the resurrected band Mustangs of the West.  Here is a beautiful Christmas single that is wonderful for every day listening, “Everybody Wants Peace on Earth.”

Our third single is another Christmas one, this time from The Herron Brothers.  The single drops on November 30, so here’s a SNEAK PEAK of it.  We love their Celtic pop sound, and recommend you heed their advice and “Don’t be Lonely This Christmas.”

Our fourth single is from alt-rock band &Y Myles, who tell us that it’s “Your Turn.”  We like the sentiment of the song, and the driving rock beat ain’t bad either.

Our final single this week is the second one released from the EP You Up? by Fleurt.  We love her sound and look forward to seeing what comes next.  Enjoy “Goodnight (not Goodbye).”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Moving on to the latest music videos, we have some powerful ones for you this week.  First up is the latest from Americana sweetheart and poet Emily Clibourn, dedicated to the angels who guide our paths.  Check out “Green Hair,” especially those amazing dancers.

Our second video brings Blue Élan Records’ Jesse Dayton‘s protest song, “Charlottesville” to life.  This one is truly epic because “this ain’t no time for cowards.”

Next up is a beautiful homage to one of the worst disasters NASA ever had.  Check out “Challenger” by Canadian singer-songwriter Mike Edel.

Our fourth video speaks to the problem of homesickness, which affects a lot of our college students, especially at this time of year.  Here is another Canadian band, Dumb Angel, who remind us this feeling comes in “Like a Wave, Like the Tide.”

Speaking of powerful videos, our final one this week is from Aijia, who speaks up for those afraid to speak up for themselves.  Please share this video with anyone who is struggling to find their voice.  It reminds us of one our our favorite videos, Sara Bareilles’ “Brave.”  Here’s “For You.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – Sandy Carroll, Farewood, Charlotte and Thieves, Old Vinyl Club, Ruth and Emilia

It’s another beautiful day, and we can see the light at the end of the submissions!  We plan to be finished reviewing all of the requests by the end of the month so we can prepare our nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018, which will be announced on December 7.  Here are five more for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Sandy Carroll

Album Name:  Blues & Angels

Label:  Catfood Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Soak me in the Spirit; 2.  Blues all for Myself (ft Rocky Athas); 3.  Somebody Gotta Dance; 4.  Wrapped in an Angel; 5.  Mama Don’t Like It; 6.  Love is a Wonderful Thing (ft Johnny Rawls); 7.  Slings and Arrows (ft Rocky Athas); 8.  Headin’ Home (ft Bernard Allison); 9.  Road Angels; 10.  Movin’ On; 11.  Mississippi Me

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Sandy Carroll is fast becoming an icon in the blues world, and her fourth album just adds to her legacy.  Her special guests on this one include Blues Music Award winning vocalist Johnny Rawls, guitarists Rocky Athas and Bernard Allison and Muscle Shoals studio musicians David Hood (bass) and Clayton Ivy (keyboards).  The album was produced by Grammy-winning producer (and Carroll’s husband) Jim Gaines, and features a mixture of blues, jazz and gospel.  Carroll’s soothing voice sits perfectly on the amazing accompaniment, conveying hope in the midst of turmoil.  There isn’t a weak track on the album, so put it on, grab a glass of wine, and just enjoy.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues with a touch of gospel and jazz, then you should definitely add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  Farewood

Album Name:  Under Burning Sun

Label:  ARClight Records

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Secret Room; 2.  Under Burning Sun; 3.  Ash to Soil; 4.  War; 5.  Highest Garden; 6.  One Step Closer; 7.  Changing Shape; 8.  Back to the Mountain; 9.  Sun Moon Star;  10.  Beyond the Waves; 11.  Haunting Light (bonus track)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The hauntingly sweet voice of lead singer and bassist Leah Booker permeates every note on their latest album, delivering the perfect mix of angst and hope.  From the first note of “Secret Room,” this runaway train takes off and barrels through the night, delivering a potent dose of alternative rock, track by track.  These songs are perfectly suited for placement opportunities in commercials, film and television, and are also radio friendly, especially for college radio.  If this is the future of alternative rock, then the industry is in very good hands.

Recommendation:  Drop what you’re doing and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Charlotte & Thieves

Album Name:  It Won’t be Long, We Won’t Belong

Label:  Nordic Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t you Wanna Know my Name; 2.  The Machine; 3.  Younger Boy

Publicist:  Nordic Records

Review:  Once again we get incredible music from the Great North, as Charlotte & Thieves delivers on their debut EP.  The band contains two members from Norway and two from Sweden, and the chemistry in the music is what world peace is made of.  This band knows how to rock and does so in a way that sets the bar high for subsequent bands.  All three songs are amazing and show great promise for the future of this band.  We only wish there was more.  We will wait with baited breath until their next release.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – Get it today!

Artist Name:  Old Vinyl Club

Album Name:  Homemade Recordings

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie/Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Dutch Beer; 2.  Running Fast; 3.  Something New

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Spanish duo Old Vinyl Club brings some interesting indie/ alternative rock sounds to the mix on their latest self-released project.  “Running Fast” is the best track, but the other two had potential and reveal that the band could develop an even better sound.  They are worthy of your attention.

Recommendation:  Check out this band.  Although not quite ready for prime time, they definitely have potential.

Artist Name:  Ruth and Emilia

Album Name:  The Spaceship That Fell in my Backyard

Label:  Baa Baa Farms Records

Genre:  Children’s Pop

Track Listing:  1.  The Spaceship That Fell in my Backyard; 2.  Where do I Live?; 3.  We’re Gonna be Legendary; 4.  This is the way it Should Be; 5.  Repair the World; 6.  Everything is Better with Some Bubbles; 7.  I’m Smart on Safety; 8.  Can’t Janet Come and Play?; 9.  Dancing in our pjs; 10.  Just Inside This Classroom; 11.  The Spaceship . . . (reprise)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Were the material not intended for children, the electric sound and amazing vocals of Emilia Lopez-Yañez and Ruth Weber aka Ruth & Emilia could easily elevate this duo to the top of the charts.  At any rate, they are one of the best children’s bands we have ever heard, and equally as versatile and dynamic as our own local children’s band, the Whizpops.  Their sound is similar to the cast of Glee, while the album tells a great story about aliens and their quest for knowledge about earth and its inhabitants.  “Repair the World” even won the Grand Prize in this year’s John Lennon Songwriting Competition in the Children’s category.  This soundtrack would be perfect for an animated children’s show.  They are most worthy of consideration for a Grammy nomination.

Recommendation:  If you have kids, they will love this one.  Get it for them.

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 40

Happy Monday – tomorrow is Election Day, so please VOTE!  It was a busy weekend, and this month will be even more so as we conclude the reviews for consideration in the Second Half of 2018 LA Music Critic Awards.  The nominations will be announced on December 7, so get ready to vote for your favorite indie performer.  In the meantime, here are this week’s picks for new singles and music videos.

NEW SINGLES

We kick things off this week with a remake of The Guess Who‘s song, “These Eyes.”  Lisa Lambe has recently signed with Blue Élan Records and her first album with them will be released in Spring 2019.  Lambe should be no stranger to you as she was a member of the amazing group Celtic Woman, so sit back and enjoy her interpretation of this classic song.

Our second single is from Sarra, who we introduced to you back in August.  We have huge expectations for this artist, and truly expect her to be on the top of the charts in no time at all.  Here’s her latest single, “Your Name.”

Next up is an LA artist who is also an amazing skater and KJ.  Check out “Crying Wolf” from CH3LS.  We think she’ll make a believer out of you.

Our fourth single is from very successful indie artist Joshua Radin.  Check out his new tune, “Three Little Birds,” his cover of the Bob Marley classic.   This one should get you chill for the new week.

Our final single for this week is another cover, this time “Creep” by the Stone Temple Pilots, as interpreted by LA artist James Bowers.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Airpark and is the first single from their forthcoming album.  Check out “Devotion.”

Our next video is about a hot topic that is truly relevant as we head into Election Day – school shootings.  Check out “Let’s Rise,” a song co-written by Glenn Dinofer, Josh Bonilla, Jasmina Daniello, Ben Joseph Vernon and Roman Britton, and beautifully directed by Michelle Esrick.  This one should move you to action. #Enough

Next up is Pleasure Craft, whose “Back in the Game” addresses our overwhelming need to be identified by our clothes.  Let the words of this song sink in.

Our fourth video is from The Holy Knives, who we reviewed last week.  Check out the first video from their new album, “Memory Book.”

Our final video for the week is about another social issue – judging others.  Check out this powerful video from Hugh James, “My Brother’s Shoes.” featuring 3G.  Alan Marino does a stellar job on the video.  Let’s all make a difference.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Louis Rive, A Shoreline Dream, Rey, Rude Dude and the Creek Freaks, Monad

As of today, we currently have 138 submissions still to be reviewed before the end of November, on top of the 335 we have already done since June.  As you can imagine, it’s going to be a monumental task to sort through them to glean the nominations for our next set of LA Music Critic Awards, but we are up to the task and plan to announce the nominations on December 7.  In the meantime, here are five releases from earlier this summer.

Artist Name:  Louis Rive

Album Name:  The Cheap Part of Town

Label:  771572 Records

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Francis Drake’s Last Trip; 2.  Streetlights of London; 3.  Cider Al; 4.  Mulberry Mews; 5.  The Cheap Part of Town; 6.  House of God; 7.  Lowlife; 8.  Take me to Virginia; 9.  Alone

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Barcelona-based Scottish singer-songwriter Louis Rive brings a new sound to traditional folk music with his brand of storytelling, keeping these folk stories alive for another generation.  The tunes are simply written with just vocals and guitar, keeping the focus on the story itself.  The words he uses create stunning mental pictures that make the listener feel as if he is right in the middle of the story.  Each one is a masterpiece, and will teach as well as entertain.

Recommendation:  Give this one a spin.

Artist Name:  A Shoreline Dream

Album Name:  Waitout

Label:  Latenight Weeknight Records

Genre:  Dream Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Waitout; 2.  In the Ready Sound; 3.  Barnum; 4.  New York; 5.  Projections

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  Colorado gives us A Shoreline Dream, a dream rock band that mixes shoegaze with postpunk to create a sound filled with memorable licks and dreamy vocals.  While there are vocals to most of the songs, the music is predominantly the focus with killer instrumental riffs throughout.  This is music that is instantly unforgettable, with stellar guitar and drums throughout.  This music would play well on album rock radio, as well as provide suitable placements for film and television.  Slip into the dream and enjoy the trip.

Recommendation:  You should definitely check this one out.  It has a unique quality that belongs in your music library.

Artist Name:  Rey

Album Name:  Windose 10

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Hip-hop

Track Listing:  1.  Hello; 2.  Flex; 3.  Story; 4.  Extra; 5.  Gore; 6.  Shine

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This is the first true international rap/hip-hop artist we have reviewed, and Rey seems to have gone to great links to learn this American musical form.  It is full of colorful language, anger and angst, just like the myriad of hip-hop here in the States.  Unfortunately, it does nothing to stand out, and therefore can easily be lost in the quagmire of similar music flooding our country.  We think he has the talent but he just hasn’t figured out how to be unique in his strength.  We hope he finds a way before he is just another artist in an extremely crowded genre.

Recommendation:  Give it a chance – he may surprise you.

Artist Name:  Rude Dude and the Creek Freaks

Album Name:  Rude Dude and the Creek Freaks

Label:  Graveface Records and Curiosities

Genre:  Garage Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Spinning; 2.  Tiptoe; 3.  Travellin’ Man; 4.  Lost my Head; 5.  Interlude (Disco Submarine); 6.  Dancing in the Dark; 7.  Spiders; 8.  Pyramid Scheme; 9.  Dan Halen; 10.  Outro (How Rob Feels)

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  Ryan Graveface and his label have been supporting local Atlanta artists for quite a few years, and continuing to do so for their latest local release.  On the sophomore album from this Savannah quintet, they show that they can rock it with the big boys, turning in a worthy effort that Jimi Hendrix would have been proud to endorse.  They mix a healthy dose of psychedelia with their rock to form an eerie sound that immediately identifies them as leaders in the underground indie rock movement, bringing back memories of LSD and acid trips that heavily influenced the music of the late 60s.  Try this one on for your next weekend party or rave.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name: Monad

Album Name:  Monad

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Psychedelia

Track Listing:  1.  A Knife; 2.  Tension; 3.  Turning Wheels; 4.  Sun Song; 5.  My Eyes are Open; 6.  Out Through the Livingroom Window

Publicist:  Outpost Media PR

Review:  Israeli guitar virtuoso Ittamar Erb has created a special sound with his band, as they take psychedelia to a new plain.  The EP starts out with “A Knife,” an amazing instrumental, before adding vocals on “Tension.”  You will not easily forget this music, although you have to listen closely to fully understand the lyrical content.  Our favorite track is “Sun Song.” although “My Eyes are Open” is a close second.

Recommendation:  If you like well-crafted music, then definitely check this one out.  We think it is head-and-shoulders over music created by other psychedelia artists.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – S U M, The Venus Fly Trap, Teddy Glass, Frank Gambale Soulmine, David Lumsden and Friends

As the period for consideration for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018 draws to a close, it is getting pretty hectic here as we try to complete reviews for all the submissions.  We’ve got five more for your consideration today, and hope you enjoy checking out new music with us.  If you do, please subscribe to our blog, like us on Facebook, and tell your friends.

Artist Name:  S U M

Album Name:  S U M

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz/Pop/Soul/Funk

Track Listing:  1.  Welcome to SUM; 2.  Power Anthem; 3.  Last Prayer for a Change; 4.  It’s Alright to be Me; 5.  Test the Waters; 6.  Free Style (Interlude); 7.  Sinking Sand; 8.  Funk Hip Nasty; 9.  It’s Alright to be Me (Reprise)

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  S U M (pronounced SOOM) is a new collective of musicians created by Steve Belvilus, with lead vocals by Patryce Williams.  They combine the best of jazz, pop, soul and funk to create their own brand of awesome, making their sound available to the vast world of indie music lovers through a style of jazz that is more personal and which promotes freedom of self.  Just one listen to the introductory tune “Welcome to S U M” and it will become quickly evident that this is not your mama’s jazz.  This is jazz that makes you want to dance, expand your mind with the cultural excellence that is jazz and to simply enjoy the moment while these incredible rhythms and harmonies take hold of your ears and mind.  Take this one in again and again.  It will definitely improve your self-image.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  The Venus Fly Trap

Album Name:  Icon

Label:  Glass Modern Records

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  Icon; 2.  Vitesse; 3.  Voodoo Voodo; 4.  Flashback; 5.  Deadly Nightshade; 6.  The Genesis of the Daleks; 8.  Puppet; 9.  In the Moonlight

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  Finally, an indie band for nerds, that is lovers of British pop cultural icons like Doctor Who.  This electronic outfit uses sound clips from BBC shows to create music that will stimulate your brain as you try to remember which episode the clip comes from.  It is truly different from any other UK band we have previously reviewed.  “Vitesse” sounds like it is sung by Rocky Horror’s Riff Raff as a segue from “Time Warp.”  This one will keep you on your toes and make you yearn for the dance floor.

Recommendation:  Definitely check it out.

Artist Name:  Teddy Glass

Album Name:  Nights and Weekends

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Lean On; 2.  Genevieve; 3.  Nights and Weekends; 4.  Stereo Field; 5.  Doveskin; 6.  Grindin’ It; 7.  Carrion; 8.  Rich Kid

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  The music of Teddy Glass is a combination of southern smoothness and charm with Detroit soul, resulting in a form of music that is sonically soothing while also being stimulating to your dance sensors.  It is feel good music that goes well with comfort foods, balancing out your life and separating you from the cares of this world.  All eight songs are fun and worthy of your attention, but we think you will be playing the title cut and “Stereo Field” over and over again.

Recommendation:  This one is worth it – Get it today!

Artist Name:  Frank Gambale Soulmine

Album Name:  Salve

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  My Soulmine; 2.  Fear of Flyin’; 3.  Checked Out; 4.  Love is Always the Answer; 5.  Slipstream Cowboys; 6.  Through the Darkness; 7.  The Day Everything Changed; 8.  Within my Borders; 9.  Let’s Just Talk About It; 10.  Dream Love

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  SNEAK PREVIEW – Twelve years ago when I was writing for Music Connection Magazine, I had the opportunity to review a young artist named Boca.  She impressed me then and she continues to impress since she hooked up with her guitarist husband Frank Gambale to form Soulmine, an amazing jazz collective vocal experience that we simply adore.  With several members on lead vocals, and an amazing array of stellar musicians creating the music, this band is one of the best jazz bands in the world.  They add in a touch of funk and soul and leave the listener with an earful of sonic sweetness that will never be forgotten.  “Slipstream Cowboys” will bring back memories of classic Steely Dan.  Sit back and put this one on repeat while the music melts away the cares of the day.  The album will be available on October 28.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one.

Artist Name:  David Lumsden & Friends

Album Name:  Hues of Blues

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  You Got to Lose (ft David Lumsden); 2.  Further on up the Road (ft Bill Evans); 3.  You’re Ruining my Bad Reputation (ft Wayne Carter); 4.  Brush with the Blues (ft David Lumsden); 5.  What’s the Matter with the Mill (ft Reggie Britton); 6.  Raised me Right (ft Mary Jo Curry); 7.  On Bended Knee (ft Steve “the Harp” Mehlberg); 8.  Thrill is Gone (ft Wayne Carter); 9.  Cut you Loose (ft Steve “the Harp” Mehlberg); 10.  Rollin’ and Tumblin’ (ft David Lumsden); 11.  Georgia on my Mind (ft Wayne Carter); 12.  Rain Song (ft Andon Davis)

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  There are a handful of great blues guitarists, and David Lumsden is definitely one of them.  He has assembled a group of similarly amazing guitarists to create this stellar collection of blues songs that will get you on your feet and in the mood for great music.  You can’t go wrong with any of these songs, and they will satisfy your most severe blues cravings.  Grab yourself a drink and let the sound of David Lumsden and his friends fill the night with some of the best blues jams ever recorded.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, you owe it to yourself to Get this one.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 37

What a great victory for our Dolphins yesterday, who came from behind to tie and then win the game in overtime over the Bears.  It was a great start to this week that would only get better if the Brewers can clinch a World Series Berth with a sweep of the Dodgers in LA.  In the meantime, check out these new singles and music videos and have a wonderful week.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is all about overcoming the pain of leaving people and things behind to pursue success.  We can totally identify with this track, and think it just might be the inspiration you need for this new week.  Check out “All Alone” by Jess McAvoy (ft Alicia Madison).

Our next single is from the dynamic duo that call themselves The Darcys.  We love the upbeat sound of “Chasing the Fall,” and think it will appeal to you as well.

Ari Herstad is well-known in the indie music community, and his column Ari’s Take is one of the better read publications, with news that indie artists can truly use.  He has joined up with the one and only Nina Storey to form Brassroots District, and they have released their first single, which we truly love.  Check out “Repetition.”

Our fourth single comes from the newly married Nashville fixture Alyssa Jacey.  It is her first single since “I Want it to Rain,” and it is a beautiful ballad that is truly inspirational.  Here’s “Beautiful Night.”  Welcome back AJ!

Our final single is from an icon of the pop scene who has returned to performing on his new label, Blue Élan Records.  On this amazing remake of his band’s monster hit, “Crazy Love,” Rusty Young is joined by labelmates Cindy Alexander, Chelsea Williams, Lisa Lambe, Gina Sicilia, Scout Durwood and Brie Darling of Fanny Walked the Earth.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video is from an LA band that we are loving more and more with each release.  Check out the amazing rocking tune “No Hand me Downs” from Birds and Arrows.  This one will put some life in your Monday morning and every day thereafter.

Up next is the latest from surf guitarist JP Soars and his band, The Red Hots.  They blow us away with their tune, “Southbound I-95,” and its hot cars and hotter cinematography.  Turn this one up loud and enjoy.

Our third video is an amazing Latin Pop tune from the incredible Chesca, who is Gloria Estefan and Christina Aguilera all rolled up into one.  Check out “Azúcar” and get your fix of her sweet sound.

Next up is some alt rock to keep you going, as trio Noble Bodies bring us “Take me Down.”  Rock on.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with the latest lyric video from 12-time LA Music Critic Award winning band The Spider Accomplice.  Check out this timely and visually stunning video for their song “Epilogue.”  If you’re in LA, don’t miss the chance to catch them live at The Viper Room on October 18.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 35

Looking forward to heading down to Denver on Wednesday for this year’s Durango Songwriters Expo.  We’re having a meet and greet at The Walnut Room on Wednesday night before the Expo kicks off with their showcase on Thursday night and closes Saturday night with a concert.  Should be an interesting weekend, and it will be warmer there than here in Montana.  In the meantime, here are the latest happenings in indie music, as well as five new singles and five new videos for you to check out.

COLIN DEVLIN CD RELEASE SHOW AT HOTEL CAFÉ

Colin Devlin and Blue Élan Records will celebrate the release of Devlin’s new album High Point (which we will be reviewing on Friday) with a concert at the esteemed Hotel Café on Wednesday, October 3.  The opening act is Devlin’s labelmates Roan Yellowthorn, who are making their Los Angeles debut.  Roan Yellowthorn goes on at 7 p.m., followed by Devlin at 8 p.m.  If you are in or near Los Angeles, we strongly encourage you to be there.

SPOTIFY TO ALLOW INDIE ARTISTS DIRECT UPLOADS

Spotify has announced a new feature which will enable independent artists to upload tracks to the service directly – without any requirement for a third-party aggregator or record label.  The feature currently remains in invite-only beta mode – with a few hundred United States artists being ushered in – but Spotify says that, in the future, it will “bring upload to even more artists, labels, and teams.”

Artists will be able access the upload function via the Spotify For Artists platform, which counted more than 200,000 verified acts amongst its monthly user base at the end of June.

The best part is that this new upload feature is completely free, unlike the current feature provided by existing third-party digital aggregators/distributors such as CD Baby, TuneCore, Distrokid and Ditto – all of which require either a one-off upload fee or a yearly subscription payment from artists.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single today comes from long-time indie artist Amy Kuney, who advises us to just “Hold On.”  We should all listen to her advice.

Our second single comes from another great artist client of Doug Deutsch Publicity Services.  Here is “Highway Jawn” from Paul Edelman and Jangling Sparrows.  This one will get your toes a tapping while you sit back and enjoy your whiskey and beer chaser.  We can’t wait to hear the rest of the album.

Next up is the latest from LA Music Critic Award winners Lovers & Poets.  Check out their cover of the title track from the 1968 sci-fi film “Barbarella.”  We really love the 60s vibe of this song, which bring back great memories of the powerful female singers of that era.

Our fourth single comes from another amazing publicist, Jennifer Allison Publicity.  Please enjoy this premiere of the new single, “Desnudame” by Joaquin Torres.  Spanish and English never sounded better together.

Our final single this week is the first release from new Blue Élan Records artist Lisa Lambe.  We think the title of the song, “Beautiful Thing,” sums up the incredible music she has created.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video offers timely advice on what it means to be “beautiful.”  Check out this amazing video for “Costume Party” by The Voice‘s Season 12 runner-up, Lauren Duski.

Next is the video for the first single off the forthcoming album from We are the City.  For a rocking good time, check out “When I Dream, I Dream of You.”

Our third video this week is from Zoey Clarke, who we introduced to you last year when we reviewed her last album.  We really like the sound of her new material, including “Rewind,” and can’t wait to hear the rest of her new music.

If you like nostalgic videos, then our fourth video this week will likely take your breath away, especially if you love Irish Castles.  Check out the latest, “The Hill Dwellers,” from Kramies.

Our final video this week is from the incredible Korean-American artist, Tiffany Young.  She will be in Los Angeles on October 3 from 6-8 p.m. at the Sunset H&M (8580 Sunset Blvd) to celebrate the release of her new video, “Teach You,” as well as her new collaborative effort with H&M.

See you soon with our first Get it or Forget it for October.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 34

It’s the final week of September, and things are still popping on the indie music scene.  The non-stop barrage of new releases continues, and we are working like crazy to get them all reviewed for you.  But before we get back to that task, let’s take a moment to see what else is happening, and share five new singles and five new music videos with you, as well as check in on multiple LA Music Critic Awards winner and Blue Élan Records Americana superstar Rod Melancon.

ROD MELANCON HAS AN EXPLOSIVE WEEK

Rod Melancon thought this week would be like any other, but he woke up Monday morning to find not only critical success from the release of his latest single, “Westgate,” which we featured last week and which was also highlighted in Rolling Stone’s Top 10 Songs of the Week on Friday, but his song, “Wanna Go for a Ride” is being featured in a national Toyota commercial.

“Last night one of my childhood friends called me up after he heard my song playing behind a Toyota commercial.  I could hear the excitement in his voice.  People from my hometown really root for one another.  This is what it’s all about,” said Melancon.

“Westgate” is the first single from his forthcoming album Pinkville, which is scheduled to be released in spring 2019.   Rolling Stone praised “Westgate” as ‘equal parts talking blues and bar-band Southern rocker.  Melancon glues both halves together with a voice that’s every bit as punchy and pockmarked as the song’s
protagonist.’”

“Wanna Go for a Ride” is a song from his second album Parish Lines, which was released in 2014.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes to us courtesy of Open All Nite Entertainment, which has been extremely busy promoting talent lately.  Their client John Hickman released his latest single, “What’s This All About” last Friday, and we are pleased to share it with you today.

Paria fuses Iranian, Latin and UK bass beats into her very own brand of DIY pop, and the result is the incredible single, “Casual.”  This one will get you up and moving.

Our third single is another amazing pop/soul track, this time from the likewise amazing artist Nuela Charles, who was a part of our Ten Great Singles article back in March.  She wants to know, ‘Are you looking for some “Danger?'”

We switch it up to some straight ahead rock with “Nobody’s Fool”by Carlo & the Montes, featuring Akovia.  It reminds us of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and we think you will dig it.

Our final single this week is the PREMIERE of the latest track from Push & Rama Duke.  Check out the amazing dance tune “Frozen,” which is very reminiscent of those monster hits from Donna Summer.

https://soundcloud.com/bigmanagement/frozen-1/s-eAO1I

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is the long-awaited new song from Magnolia Memoir.  Check out this amazing 80s-inspired tune, “Afterlife.”  We are so glad to have them back!

Next up is the video for the title track of Colin Devlin‘s new album High Point, which we will be reviewing on October 5.  We love the sound of and the images, and think you will too.

Our third video is from an LA staple, Eileen Carey, who brings us the country pop smash “That Town,” which reminds us of early Faith Hill.  Enjoy this beautiful video.

In our fourth video this week, dance duo Karmic drops some “Wisdom Pie,” with a groovy fun tune that is perfect for the dance floor.

We close out the week with the first video from the upcoming new album from KT Tunstall, Wax, which is being released on October 5.  Check out “The River.”