Tag: Nina Storey

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 1)

It’s a new year – welcome 2021.  Here’s hoping that we will see a return to live music and much success for indie artists worldwide.

Speaking of live music, we just learned of the passing of long-time indie music supporter Lina La Rosa to ALS.  We are dedicating this week’s column to her memory.  RIP, Lina.

After waking up to a blanket of white on New Year’s Day, we wanted to kick off the new year right with some great new singles and music videos.  Here’s what we found this week:

NEW SINGLES

Our first single is from an artist whom we’ve known since the 90’s.  She is a survivor of COVID, and probably our favorite redhead on the planet.  We’re talking about none other than Nina Storey, and her first song of 2021 will definitely get you on the dance floor.  Check out her latest groove and get ready to “Fly.”

Fly · Nina Storey (spotify.com)

Next up is a beautiful holiday song from another friend from our time living in San Diego.  She has since moved to Nashville where she has become a popular host of a music show, an actress and a force of nature.  Check out “Somethin’ ‘Bout the Snow” from the original lady of blue, Alyssa Jacey.

Somethin’ Bout the Snow · Alyssa Jacey (spotify.com)

Our third song pretty much sums up the feelings of quite a few people concerning 2020.  Meiko is another long-time friend who says what many of us feel, “This Year can Kiss my Ass.”

This Year Can Kiss My Ass · Meiko (spotify.com)

Gabe Dixon is a past winner of the LA Music Critic Awards, and has become the natural follow-up to such amazing “piano men” as Billy Joel, Elton John and Phil Vassar.  We simply love his holiday song and echo its sentiments, so let’s bring in the “New Year Just With You.”

Spotify – New Year Just with You

We close out this week’s singles with the latest from the multi-talented actress, songwriter, crafter and co-creator of the “Don’t Call us Tori” showcase and podcast, LA’s own Shannon Hurley.  In answer to her question, “Am I in This Love Alone,” we respond with a resounding, “Hell No!”

Am I in This Love Alone · Shannon Hurley (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We kick things off with a video from the amazing duo Dauzat St. Marie.  We think this powerful ballad sets the perfect message for 2021 – “In it Together.”

ROCKET is another group with powerful female vocals.  They have just released a lyric video for their empowering song, “Giants,” and we think you should take their lyrics to heart.

Our third video is from a new artist we have recently discovered courtesy of Tarsier Records.  Enjoy this beautiful and soulful visual for “Best Wishes” by Markus.

Christmas may be over, but the spirit of the season lives on in this stirring video cover of one of our all-time favorite classics, “What Child is This.”  Check out Dan Hegarty and metal maven VK Lynne in this stunning visual shot by Sean McHugh.

We close out the first week of the year with this remarkable lyric video that brings back so many memories.  Lend your ear to the amazing songwriting of Michael Shynes and meet us at “Sundown.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 16)

We hope you enjoyed our review of The Imaginaries‘ live concert and are ready for some more great new singles and videos.  Here are this week’s selections.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest from one of our absolute favorite indie musicians, Nina Storey.  She’s been busy during the pandemic and recently released her third single.  Once again, her heavenly voice and brilliant songwriting have delivered an instant masterpiece.  Check out “The Bones.”

Continuing the theme of arising out of the ashes of this pandemic is the latest from Michael McFarland, an upbeat inspirational pop tune called “The New Contagion.”  We love the energy and the hopeful lyrics.  Let us know what you think.

As we recently celebrated World Mental Health Day, our next song is truly relevant.  Toronto artist X. Ari presents her latest single, “Lifting Up,” from her new EP which is all about mental health issues.  Listen to the words as the energizing beat gets your spirit up.

Our fourth single comes from the smooth blues/jazz/rock sound of Goldflēce, who is planning to “Tie One On.”  This one is perfect for chilling down after a long day of work.  David Goldflies is one half of The Allman Goldflies Band, and we cannot get enough of this solo effort.

We close out our singles this week with the latest sweet treat from LA’s iconic BINX.  This time around, she tells us “I’m in Love With a Rapper,” and is joined by Mata Atoms.  We are in love with her and her amazing body of work.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is the latest from the reigning queen of the LGBTQ musical movement in Los Angeles, the incomparable Abby Posner.  Check out the debut of Frupert, the amazing bass-playing character in Posner’s video “Where I Wanna Be.”

This next video was released a couple of months ago, but we felt it was perfect for today.  We love the sweet harmonies of sister act Southern Halo, and we stand by the sentiments expressed in this lyric video for their masterpiece, “Don’t Let Another Day Go By.”

Our third video is a rocking lyric video from LA’s infamous rocksters Rocket.  They’re “Losing Breath” over the state of our nation, and encourage you to vote.

Next up is an Americana tune that is sure to propel LA’s sweet Kris Angelis into the national limelight.  It is a timely song called “Ghost (I’m Alive and Breathing),” and makes us giddy with the possibilities.  Angelis has paid her dues and her music is ripe for worldwide acceptance.  We truly dig this tune.

We close out this week with a sweet song about that annual event in the life of each person, their “Birthday.”  We can never get enough of the music of Kensington Moore, and we can relate to the sentiments of this song.  Until the next one, “raise a glass.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 20

It’s been a crazy week.  We saw Dons of Disco again on Monday night, and it was even better than it was when we saw it in February at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.  Tuesday and Wednesday we spent as a PA on set with Nina Storey on a video shoot for a proposed pilot, before heading out to Highland Park Bowl for Americana Nights with Nicki O’Neil, Manda Mosher and Emily Zuzik.  Thursday was rehearsal for my Fringe solo show, and a chance to review the Fringe show Human Fountains.  Friday we reviewed up and coming artist Casey Ahern at the Mint before spending the weekend in San Diego with family.  Watch for reviews of the music events this week.

NEW SINGLES

We kick things off this week with some EDM that will make you want to get up and dance the night away.  Clinton Tarantino has given us a glorious dance beat and we are sure you’ll be screaming, “Don’t Stop”all night long.

Next up is the powerful sound of Titus Calderbank, who reminds us of a cross between Adam Levine and Ryan Tedder.  We love this powerful song and think it could be a huge radio hit.  Check out “Mistakes.”

https://soundcloud.com/titus-calderbank/mistakes

Our third single is a slow R&B jam that will heat up your senses with the sweet vocals and bad-ass rhythm of Chanel Lóran on her single “Pretend.”  This one is smoking hot.

Our next single is the latest from punk-infused rock act The Band Gooch.  This one has great potential for a radio hit and we love the rocking sound of “Stuck with You.”

Our final single this week comes from rock goddess Hanna Barakat ahead of her upcoming album being produced by Disturbed’s John Moyer.  it is an intense journey that describes love as “Damage Done.”  Please let us know what you think about this one.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week comes from LA Music Critic Award winner Diana Rein, and she shows why she is the “Queen of My Castle.”  Her version of the blues will lift your spirits and we simply love every note.  Can’t wait for her completed album.  We really love her new look.

Next up is the latest from folk/Americana singer-songwriter Franc Cinelli.  The cinematography is amazing, as are the words and vocals of “Horses.”  This one has great potential.

Our third video has all the charm of Jimmy Buffet with a little taste of Bob Marley and is beautifully shot at the beach.  Check  out “Lawnchair” by Shawn Perry.  Let’s party.

Our fourth video is much more serious and talks about the status of our world today.  We love the simplicity of the video, which allows the words and vocal delivery to drive their message home.  Check out “Dangerous People” from Pete Gardiner.

Our final video this week is from hard-rock band Take the Day, who is looking for someone to “Save me Now.”  This one will get you week off to a rocking start.

 

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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 Durango Songwriters Expo Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 42

What a wonderful Veterans Day weekend!  All of our favorite sports teams – Griz, Deacons and Wizards – won their games and the Dolphins play tonight on Monday Night Football.  The only thing that can top that is great indie music, and we have that in spades!

NINA STOREY LAUNCHES ASTRAL QUEEN

One of our favorite indie musicians, Nina Storey, recently joined with Mark McGee and launched their new techno-pop band Astral Queen.  The first single, “Take  it all the Way,” is a smash and the obvious next step in the evolution of her music.  Check it out below, and don’t forget to subscribe to her amazing blog Strangely Optimistic, as well.

THE CREAM CONTINUES TO RISE WITH MILCK’s REMAKE OF HER VIRAL HIT, “QUIET” 

In light of the recent news about sexual assault in the entertainment industry, MILCK has remade her video for  “Quiet.”  We think it is one of the most powerful videos we have ever seen, both visually and sonically.  We especially love the inclusion of the orchestra, as well as the multiple story lines.  Thank you Atlantic Records for allowing your artist to speak her mind and share this amazing song, which should help in bringing closure to these victims.

DAVID GARFIELD TEAMS WITH SMOKEY ROBINSON FOR NEW SINGLE

The new single by David Garfield, “I Lied,” ft. J. Paris, was co-written by the one and only Smokey Robinson.  The vocals of J. Paris soar on wings of angels, perfectly highlighting the instrumental soundtrack provided by Garfield.  The country vibe fits perfectly with the strings and vocals to highlight this “instant classic.”  We guarantee this one will make your day.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is “Common Sense,” the latest from Down and Outlaws, a San Francisco-based rock and roll quartet.  This one is sure to get your new week off to a rocking start.

Our second new single this week is from Australian brother duo Sellars.  “Linear Time” is a classic rock tune that will surely stand the test of time.  Welcome to the indie rock world, Sellars.  We look forward to hearing much more from them in the future.

Last but not least, here is “The Weight” (ft. Sickflip), from FRASE, an electronic artist from Montreal.   Let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

“Take Your Time” by Lender is an amazing dance video that has been making the film festival circuit, garnering critical and fan praise and support.  We think it is an artistic masterpiece.  Let us know what you think.

Next up is “Give Erin a Compliment (so Kind)” ft, April Olsen, the latest single from Jaye Bartell.  It is an interesting Americana song that should stimulate your senses as you begin a new week.

Our last new video this week is a lyric video from Durango Songwriter Expo alum Rachel Price.  Check out “Love is War” and have a great week.

 

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 26

Welcome to another week of summer.  This was one of the weekends we wished we were still in Los Angeles, because we definitely would  have been at Dodger Stadium for the amazing Classic West festival which all our friends are talking about.  To those of you who attended, hope you had a great time with The Eagles, the Doobie Brothers, Steeley Dan, Fleetwood Mac, Journey and Earth Wind and Fire.  We’re so jealous!!!

INDIE NEWS

Heather Jacks, author of The Noise Beneath the City, creator of the Drinking from the Jug blog, as well as a huge supporter of indie music has announced that she is joining an artists’ collective and opening her first brick and mortar store, Rock A Record, at the Sea Hive, an artisan marketplace located at 1555 S. Coast Highway in Oceanside.  The new location will open next month, so please go out and support this true patron of the arts.

Montanan Melissa Forrette continues her busy July with an opening slot for the legendary country band Sawyer Brown at Darby Logger Days on July 21.  Tickets are still available at the event’s website.

Several of the nominees for the LA Music Critic Awards are visiting Montana or the surrounding area in the near future, and we plan to get out and support them.  This Wednesday (July 19) we will be heading to Stevensville, Montana to see The American West at the Blacksmith Brewery.  We will also be attending the performance of Jerad Finck at Bellwether Brewery Co. in Spokane, Washington on July 22.  Then on August 3, we will be seeing Gina Sicilia at The Gold Room in Colorado Springs, Colorado before heading to Billings, Montana to catch Australian Anni Piper at Magic City Blues on August 4.  We also hope to catch Redhead Express when they play at Music Ranch Montana in Livingston, Montana on August 17.

Other artists on tour in our area include Nina Storey at the Marmelade Concert Series in Salt Lake City on July 20 and Trevor Hall headlining at the Top Hat on November 7.

NEW MUSIC

Here’s an amazing track from Space4Lease entitled “Must be Something” that should help kick-start your Monday.  Please let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/space4leasemusic/must-be-something

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

There have been a boatload of new music videos released in the past week or so, and we have selected three to share with you.  Please also check out “You!” by Floco Torres, “Snitches get Stiches” by Wieuca, “Learn to Be” by Bryan Mackey and “Concrete Angels” by Scarlett Taylor, as well as “Coldplay” by David Ryan Harris.  All are available at YouTube.com.

First up today is the latest from one of our favorite singer-songwriters and close friends, Kim Divine.  Her new lyric video is entitled “This Time Around,” and we definitely think you will enjoy it.

Next up is “Underneath,” the latest single from Rosi Golan, one of the many amazing artists represented by publicist Laura Goldfarb of Red Boot PR.  We just reviewed the album, and definitely think this one is a keeper.

Last, but definitely not least, is the latest from California Country artist and multiple LA Music Critic Award nominee  and past winner, Calico the Band, with their latest, “The 405.”  Everyone in the greater LA area will be able to relate to this video.  Have a great week.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it: Float Here Forever, Ian Mahan, Banditos

Happy Sunday.  Hope you’ve had a wonderful weekend, and you’re ready for another super week starting tomorrow.  We thank you for your support of our Get it or Forget it series.  We thoroughly enjoy introducing you to new artists, and for the opportunity to help you decide which ones to support.  Here are three more for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Float Here Forever

Album Name:  Inexhaustible

Label:  ALP Music

Genre:  Alternative Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Inexhaustible; 2.  Tranquilize; 3.  Goliath; 4.  Echolocation; 5.  Cobra Eyes 

Publicist:  None

Review:  Float Here Forever sounds like so many other alternative rock bands – lots of passion but an unrefined musical presentation.  While the drumming of Nick Marco is first rate, nothing else truly separates these guys from their peers.  Judging from the number of fans they have on their Facebook music page (42), they also haven’t yet learned the art of marketing and building a fan base in their native Detroit, which has always had an intense love for indie music.  Hopefully their new tunes will help awaken the sleeping fans around them.  All the five songs on this upcoming EP, which will be released on June 20 are good, but not outstanding, with the exception of “Goliath,” which sounds like it would make a great live performance.  We think that this band has potential to break out of the crowded alternative rock scene, but simply needs more time to hone their skills and develop a dedicated fan base.

Recommendation:  Keep your eyes out for this band in the future.  They remind me of the Not Ready for Primetime Players that used to be an integral part of Saturday Night Live.  They eventually became powerhouses, and we think these guys may yet attain that status.  In the meantime, unless you are a die-hard alt-rock fan, you should just Forget them.

Artist Name:  Ian Mahan

Album Name:  Rockford

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter pop

Track Listing:  1.  Come Around; 2.  I’m not Me; 3.  Dear Louise; 4.  Rockford; 5.  Bet and Pray; 6. Elmhurst (feat. Stellan) 

Publicist:  None

Review:  We discovered this Denver-based artist when he opened a show for our friend Nina Storey at The Soiled Dove Underground.  His storytelling blew us away, with outstanding musical arrangements that perfectly complement his soaring vocals.   This is Mahan’s sophomore release, and we feel like he will be a player on the indie music scene for many years to come.  He opens up this strong EP with the amazing “Come Around,” and then proceeds to make each successive tune better than the previous one.  His vocals are reminiscent of John Mayer, and his songs are radio ready and perfect for placement in television and film.  The EP will be released on June 23.  By all means, if you have the chance to see him perform live, we highly recommend you do it – you will be sorry if you don’t.

Recommendation:  Ian Mahan has been added to our short list of the best male singer-songwriters in indie music today.  If you don’t rush out and Get it, we think you should have your head examined.

Artist Name:  Banditos

Album Name:  Visionland

Label:  Blood Shot Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Fine Fine Day; 2.  Strange Heart; 3.  Visionland; 4.  Thick n’ Thin; 5.  Healin’ Slow; 6.  Lonely Boy; 7.  Fun all Night; 8.  When it Rains; 9.  Still and Quiet; 10.  DDT 

Publicist:  Josh Zanger

Review:  Nashville/Birmingham based indie rock band Banditos are not scared to rock your world.  With just enough “southern style” rock to make it interesting, they have a unique sound that provides the perfect chill factor for a hot summer night under the stars.  We were especially blown away by the voice of Mary Beth Richardson, who took us by surprise with her Janis Joplin meets Lynyrd Skynyrd sound on “Strange Heart.”  Trust us when we tell you that this band will blow away any preconceived notions of what an indie band can deliver.  We think they are poised to take their music mainstream, and think they would be a fun band to see perform live.  Make sure you are first in line to purchase the new album when it is released on June 23.  Other worthy tracks include the title track, the stirring ballad “Healin’ Slow,” “Lonely Boy,” “Fun all Night,” and “Still and Quiet.”

Recommendation:  You simply must Get this album.  It is head and shoulders above its peers in the indie rock genre, and we believe this band will go far.  We encourage you to hop on their bandwagon now.

 

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol 21

Back home in Montana after a wonderful week spending time with my dad and sister-in-law in Oklahoma.  I drove 3100 miles through Montana, Wyoming, Colorado, Texas and Oklahoma, and enjoyed the trip.  Also got to stop in Denver and catch a performance of one of my best friends, Nina Storey, at The Soiled Dove Underground.

Speaking of the show, her opening act, Ian Mahan, was amazing.  The night was sheer perfection.  Loved the entire vibe of new songs, old songs, Beatles songs and the wit and wisdom of her brilliant on stage banter.  We have been friends for many years (won’t tell you how many but it’s more than 10), and this was the best show I have ever witnessed.  Be on the lookout for new material, as well as a new project that she shared with us.  If you loved her before, you will love her even more now.  If you haven’t discovered the magic that is Nina Storey, then now is the perfect time to come onboard.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL OPENS FOR PREVIEWS ON JUNE 1

The Eighth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival opens for previews on Thursday, followed by the Opening Party on June 7.  We will be arriving on June 15, and will provide daily coverage through the awards show on June 25.  We are so excited to present our first award this year, the Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence, in honor of our fallen friend, Larry Cornwall aka Alice in Cooperland.  Stay tuned for our list of the 10 most anticipated shows, which will be published later this week.

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE

The LA Music Critic Awards are celebrating five years of recognizing the indie music community with a showcase at the famed Hotel Café on June 20.  We will be honoring a special songwriter with the 2017 Icon Award, and will have performances by Wendy Sweetlove, Elyse Haren, Jon Mullane, Janey Street, Jerad Finck, Katie Costello, Lovers & Poets, The Spider Accomplice and Papermoon Gypsys.  Advance tickets are available on the Hotel Café website and are only $10 in advance and $12 at the door.  Come help us celebrate and support live indie music.

EMILY CLIBOURN DEBUTS ROCK-UMENTARY

Emily Clibourn has been a force in indie music for several years.  We are proud to announce the screening of her new rock-umentary, As the Wind Blows, the story of her recent cross-country tour.  The screening of the five part documentary will be on Saturday, June 3 from 7:30 p.m. to 11:30 p.m. at 1340 E 6th Street, Suite 402, Los Angeles.  Doors open at 7:30 p.m., with live music playing from 8:30 until 10 p.m.  The screening will follow.  Afterwards, attendees are invited to the Villains Tavern for the after party.  The event is BYOB, and it is recommended that you also bring a pillow for your own seating.

Please click here to RSVP and here for more details.

NEW MUSIC

Speaking of Jerad Finck, he has recently released his new single, on the heels of the success of “Criminal.”  His tune is called “New Kids,” and we think you’ll love it.  Check it out.

https://soundcloud.com/jeradfinck/new-kids-master

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Check out this interesting video from Brooklyn based Onesie of their tune, “This Minstrel.”  Please let us know your thoughts.

We haven’t forgotten about you hip-hop fans.  Check out the recent music video from Australian band 27 seconds of their song, “Forever Learning.”

Last  but not least this week is the debut video of an amazing new band fronted by our friend, Justin Foutz.  Check out “American Sweetheart” by the Rye Brothers.