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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 20)

Happy Monday – as we head for next weekend’s Fourth of July celebration, we are looking forward to celebrating the freedom we  have achieved as new homeowners.  Let’s also celebrate the amazing indie music out now with these five new singles and music videos.

NEW SINGLES

First up for this week and the last week in June is the other Hilary Scott (not the one with two “l” from Lady A).  She released her new 5-song EP Kaleidoscope last Friday, and this is the first track.  We really love it and feel it is a fitting sample of the entire project.  Check out “Just a Shame.”

Our second single comes from an artist we loved before she signed with Blue Élan Records and released her latest album Moth to the Flame on June 18.  Here’s the latest from Natalie Gelman, “Photograph.”  We think she’s just beginning to tap into her immense talent.

Next up is the latest from the Ben Reddell Band, with his sassy Chris Stapleton-esque vocals and a classical country Americana sound.   He will be releasing his new EP LA Story on July 9.  In the meantime, stop and listen awhile when he says “Hey,”

Our fourth single comes from all-female Americana band Ashleigh Flynn & the Riveters, who released a live album on May 18.  This is the most popular track, which is also track 1.  Check out “How the West was Won.”

Our final single this week is from 2016 LA Music Critic Award-winning band Carly and the Universe.  They’ve been relatively quiet since then but have returned with abandon.  Their latest single offers “Salvation.”  Maybe we should take them up on it.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video is from an artist that is no stranger to Monday Mashup, and with each new song we continue to be amazed at her artistry.  Rachel Lorin is in top form in her video interpretation of the classic A-ha hit, “Take on Me.”  This one needs to be put on repeat.

Our second video is from our resident funny lady, none other than Blue Élan Records artist Scout Durwood.  This time around she uses a SIM to create the perfect background for her hilarious “Scout it Out.”  This one will definitely have you ROFL.

Music video number three is from the next big LA band, none other than Kids in America.  We love this animated visualizer for “My Escape,” which features Sam Tinnesz.  The song reminds us of Fitz and the Tantrums, and we are in love with it.

Next up is a video we are dedicated to talented songwriter Warren Sellers because of the totally rad skateboarding moves.  It’s from Filipina artist YUZON, and it’s a truly chill tune called “Oh my Days.”  If you don’t like this one, we’ll give you your money back.

Our final music video brings back memories of Rick Astley and the 90s sound and is from relative newcomer Ferris Pier.  Check out the upbeat and stimulating tune, “Everything,” featuring Galen Disston.  This one will definitely power your week.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 17)

We have officially moved to North Carolina and the renovations have begun on our new home.  We just got our internet installed last Thursday, and I had a job interview as well.  Going through the background check right now, and hope to hear from them soon.  In the meantime, let’s get back to sharing new singles and new music videos with you.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is a beautiful and harmonious duet featuring our friend Melissa Polinar and the other worldly sound of the one and only India.Arie.  With our country finally coming back alive and a full concert schedule for the summer, let’s celebrate with their joyous tune “We Started a Song.”

Spotify – We Started a Song

Another voice that has led the revolution has returned with a powerful new ballad that is inspiring a whole new generation.  Check out “I Belong,” the latest anthem from MILCK.

I Belong · MILCK (spotify.com)

It’s never a bad time for a new tune from the golden boy Gabe Dixon.  His vocals drip with honey and his mastery of the keys is second to none.  Sit back and enjoy his musical style and “Lay it on Me.”

Lay It on Me · Gabe Dixon (spotify.com)

We are pleased to introduce you to a new voice in indie music who has a song that hits hard, especially in our current situation.  Please check out Kimi Kazee and her introspective “Live With It.”  We want to know what you think.

Live With It · Kimi Kazee (spotify.com)

We close out this week’s new singles with a fresh country voice from someone who just may be the female version of Brad Paisley with her humorous tongue-in-check tune “Normal Girls.”  Give it up for Crystal Leigh.

Spotify – Normal Girls

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Blue Élan Records resident funny lady Scout Durwood is back with another great video.  Laugh along to her antics as she laments “Now That UR Gone.”  Warning – explicit lyrics.

Our second video is from another Blue Élan artist, who also was responsible for getting the label off the ground.  Cindy Alexander‘s latest album While the Angels Sigh has generated one great song after another.  Her latest is “Alizarin Crimson,” and the music visualizer is stellar.  Enjoy another taste of our favorite Pnut.

Next up is one of our favorite British guilty pleasures – Single by Sunday.  In their video for “Hey Boy,” they remind us that age is just a number – just because we grow up doesn’t mean we can’t still have fun.

Video number four is dedicated to the Pride community and comes from one of LA’s most intriguing duos – Lucy & La Mer.  “Ooh La La” – Happy Pride Month.

We close out this week with the latest from the one thing we will miss most about Oklahoma – The Imaginaries.  This husband and wife duo is at the top of their game, and recently collaborated with Cheryl Ladd on a movie.  They close out the week with “Trust Falling With You.”  See you next week.

p.s.  I got the job.

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 13)

We’ve got something in the works that has us pretty excited.  We will reveal it in about three weeks.  Needless to say, it will be a definite game changer.  We can’t wait to share the news, so stay tuned.  In the meantime, here’s our first Monday Mashup of April, as the indie music community continues to amaze us with its creativity.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is the latest from Kris Angelis‘ forthcoming album, The Skies we Look To.  It is a sweet soothing ballad with a serious message about growing old, and we could easily see this one as part of a Hallmark movie.  Grab a glass of wine, settle back in your favorite chair and check out “Sunset.”

Sunset · Kris Angelis (spotify.com)

Indie artist Matt Hartke continues to impress us with his feel good pop music and his latest is one of his best to date.  Get comfortable with his upbeat musical accompaniment and stirring lyrics in his latest “St. Augustine.”

St. Augustine · Matt Hartke (spotify.com)

Our third single comes from Blue Élan Records artist Chelsea Williams, and it’s a cry in your beer country classic.  Reminds us of classic Patti Griffin and we are in love with Williams’ continuing growth as an artist.  Here’s “Moonshiner,” part of The Cave Sessions album soon to be released.

Moonshiner · Chelsea Williams (spotify.com)

It’s been three years since we introduced you to the music of Band of Silver, and it sounds like they have been perfecting their craft.  They’re back with a pair of singles that we are so happy to share with you.  Check out “Looking for a Friend” and “Are We Are We Not.”  They will definitely get your heart rate up and propel you to the dance floor.  Rock out!

Looking for a Friend · Band of Silver (spotify.com)

Are We Are We Not · Band of Silver (spotify.com)

Our final single this week is from Aubrey Toone, who we introduced you to last August.  Her latest is powerful and sounds like a cross between Meghan Trainor and Ariana Grande.  Enjoy “Gold” – it lives up to its name.

Gold · Aubrey Toone (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

This week’s new music videos kick off with another Blue Élan artist, the incomparable Scout Durwood.  She combines amazing music with comedy and never fails to deliver.  Here’s her latest, “Millennial Malaise.”

Back in March we shared Kris Angelis’ single, “I’d Give Anything,” and she’s just released a music video for the song which truly brings it to life.  This one will definitely get your week going strong, and truly belongs on CMT.  Say hello to the next great country superstar.

If you like harmonies, you will love the latest from Bryan Lanning and Brennley Brown, two rising country singers.  We wholeheartedly agree with the words of this song, and think they could indeed help us remain “Steady.”

The Greys get real with their latest video for their single, “Get Lonely.”  We can all relate to this one.  So nice to hear from them again – it’s been a long two year wait.

We close out this week with the new video from another Blue Élan artist, Roan Yellowthorn.  She takes us on an “Acid Trip,” and we are happy to tag along.

 

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Best of 2020 indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Best Music Videos of 2020

We’re back with our list of the best music videos as featured in our Monday Mashup column.  Like our list of best singles, we are listing them in the order they were featured in our blog.

Volume 1 – The Spider Accomplice, “Enough”

Volume 2 –  Sonja Midtune, “Lonely Bones”

Volume 3 –  Ace of Wands, “Feminine Values”

Volume 4 –  Deleo, “Unfair”

Volume 5 – Casey Ahern, “Sunday Driver”

Volume 6 – Alyssa Jacey, “Why I Left”

Volume 7 – Nicole Boggs and the Reel, “Money”

Volume 8 –  Chelsea Williams, “Wasted”

Volume 9 – The Spider Accomplice, “Crawl”

Volume 10 –  Sean Ardoin, “Came Thru Pullin”

Volume 11 – Ben Fuller, “Find my Faith”

Volume 12 – Dauzat St. Marie, “Common Ground’

 

Volume 13 –  Scout Durwood, “Sad Ukelele”

Volume 14 –  The Imaginaries, “Walking on a Wire”

Volume 15 –  Brooke Moriber, “Better Days”

Volume 16 –  Kris Angelis, “Ghost (I’m Alive & Breathing)”

Volume 17 –  Lucy & La Mer, “Better Than I was Before”

Volume 18 – The Imaginaries, “Hometown Christmas”

Volume 19 –  Eric Bellinger, Inigo PascualSam ConcepcionMoophsZee Avi and Vince Nantes, “Rise (Together)”

Best of the Rest – Baby Taylah, “Good Enough”

 

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 15)

We made it to the last day of summer and we’ve got some hot tunes to share with you today before the cold days of fall and winter begin.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the latest from another sterling act represented by Ue3 Promotions.  This time it’s a sister act featuring twins Jana and Jacy Ayers aka Lavendine.  They have a sound with perfect harmonies like another great sister act Karmina, with the driving beat of Evanescence.  We love it and can’t wait to hear what’s coming next.  This song takes Christian music to a new level and deserves serious airplay on stations like KLOVE.  Check out the newly remixed “Rapture.”

We switch things up with the latest acoustic Americana of Rob Williams, who brings us his song, “Nameless.”  We love the down home sound of his music, and think he has a bright future with his modern day Dylan-esque sound.

Continuing on in the Americana vein is the latest from Blue Élan Records‘ sweethearts Mustangs of the West, featuring the stirring vocals of Suzanna  Spring and the soulful mournings of Aubrey Richmond‘s violin.  Dig deep and enjoy this perfect cover of Chris Cornell’s “I am the Highway.”

Moving on to a more R&B sound, here’s “Love Again” from the uber talented Deanna Devore.  This song soars to new heights and gives us all hope that love will prevail.

Our final single this week is a portrait of perfection with a sound that reminds us of The Beatles early work.  The artist is JJ Draper and the song is “Part of a Piece of This.”  We think he’s got something – what say you?

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is a loving tribute on the 50th anniversary of Jimi Hendrix‘s death by blues legend Diana Rein.  Check out her amazing cover of “Voodoo Child.”

Speaking of great musicians who have passed on, the latest from BLAZAR has a definite Prince feel and is a powerful lyric video.  Check out “Precious.”

Our third video is a light-hearted tribute to those “Sky Dancers” we see everywhere.  Join the incredibly talented and uber comedic Scout Durwood on her latest fun video.  If this one doesn’t bring a smile to your face, then you’re taking life far too seriously.

Next up is the latest from Brooke Moriber, and we think it’s her best one yet.  She encourages us to not give up with “Better Days,” and we could not be more hopeful.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with the new video from up and coming Americana artist Nikki O’Neill.   She says that “You’re the Only One That Gets Me,” but we think everyone will want to get more from this amazing performer.

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 13)

Had to work 10 hours yesterday but I’m off this morning.  Happy to share some great new songs with you and encourage you to continue to support indie musicians.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from the forthcoming album Born Free by Soul Asylum on Blue Élan Records.  We have always loved this band and their newest is easily becoming one of our favorites.  Check out this acoustic version of “If I Told You.”

Next up is another artist from Blue Élan, the legendary Rusty Young of Poco, who is joined by Suzanna Spring of Mustangs of the West (still another Blue Élan artist) on this amazing Americana track, “Waiting on You.”  It doesn’t get much better than this.

Next up is another Blue Élan artist, the up and coming star named Car Astor.  Her latest is a stirring cover of the classic Nilsson song, “Without You.”  This one is going to be legendary.

Our fourth single comes from an artist that goes by the name Hey Bertha.  Her debut single is called “Your Name,” and we believe that she could easily become a household name.  Check out this amazing song.

Our final single this week is from one of the founding members of The Romantics, Mike Skill.  He wrote their mega hit, “What I Like About You.”  His solo work is just as impressive as he teaches us about the “’67 Riot.”  Rock on!

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is another hilarious video from the Blue Élan Records’ Queen of Comedy, Scout Durwood.  She gives us a fun little ditty with “Sad Ukelele.”  Enjoy this break from the seriousness of COVID-19.

Next up is a live performance video of “Lily White” from the upcoming album The Peppermint Sessions by Red Wanting Blue, our final Blue Élan artist today.

Our third music video is the latest lyric video from Life.Church Worship of their new song, “When I Say Jesus.”  Let the words of the song heal all your broken parts.

We were proud to feature Dauzat St. Marie last week, and they’re back with a lyric video this week, “Falling Again.”  The vocals remind us of Jennifer Nettles, and we love that Heather is back at full  vocal force.  Enjoy this one.

We close out this week with the latest from Emily Breeze.  She gives thoughtful advice to the younger generation in her heart-felt although slightly wacky rock and roll tribute song, “Hey Kidz.”

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 33 (rev.)

Happy Veterans Day to all of those who have served and provided the freedoms we enjoy.  I am proud to be counted among you.  Take advantage of all the free food available today – you’ve earned it.  In the meantime, we’ll share some new singles and music videos, including the return of our Pop Princess, Katie Costello.  Let’s get going.

NEW SINGLES

We are overjoyed to share the latest from multi-LA Music Critic Award winner and Pop Princess Katie Costello.  It’s the first new music from her since December 2017, and we could not be more ecstatic.  Check out “Polaroid” and welcome her back with open arms and ears.

Our second single comes from the creative mind of former LA artist Amie Mirello.  Somehow she found time between touring as a back-up singer for Sugarland to form a new band called Boys Club for Girls.  They have released their first single, and it is smokin’ hot.  Check out “The Weatherman.”

We continue sharing amazing new holiday songs from Blue Élan Records‘ artists, including  this stunning cover of the classic “A Marshmallow World” from the one and only Scout Durwood.  We think this one will quickly become one of your favorites.

If you love stunning harmonies, we have a treat for you from another Blue Élan Records artist, Mustangs of the West.  Check out their take on the song, “2000 Miles.”  We think it’s one of the most beautiful holiday songs we have ever heard.

Our final single this week is especially poignant and special to me, as I lost my father two years ago this Thanksgiving.  He is tall. from Denmark gives a stirring tribute to his father in his single “Dad.” and we are happy to share this one with you.  Make sure you have some tissues close by.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from the creative mind of Jay Katana, who has created a new band called Violates/Violets.  Here is their first single, “Retake (Believe).”  We think they definitely have something special and can’t wait to hear more.

Next up is the latest from budding pop queen Maggie Miles.  Check out this fun video shot at a roller skating rink for her song, “Shiver.”  Enjoy!

If you grew up in the 70s, you will enjoy this nostalgic video from Paul Mosley and the Red Meat Orchestra.  Enjoy “The 1970s.”

Our fourth video is from LA quintet The Mowgli’s, who offer sage advice in this fun video for their song, “Fighting With Yourself.”  We can easily see this song becoming an anthem and a radio hit.  What do you think?

We close out this week’s Monday Mashup with this new video from Jack Broadbent, who we introduced last month.  Here is his new tune, “Everytime I Drown.”  Let the words of this song further strengthen your resolve to be a better you.

 

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 23

Happy Monday.  It’s time again for our Monday Mashup, our final one before embarking on two weeks of the Hollywood Fringe Festival.  We are leaving tomorrow for California, where we will be attending 40+ shows at #HFF17 before presenting our first annual Larry Cornwall Award at the Fringe Awards show on June 25.

In addition to two weeks of the Fringe, we will be having our first winners showcase for the LA Music Critic Awards on June 20.  The show will be held on the Second Stage of the Hotel Café, and will feature nine previous and future winners of LAMCA, including Wendy Sweetlove, Elyse Haren, Jon Mullane, Janey Street, Jerad Finck, Lovers and Poets, Katie Costello, The Spider Accomplice and Papermoon Gypsys.  We will also be presenting a special award to one of the performers that night.  Tickets are available in advance through the venue’s website, as well as at the door.  We encourage you to buy your tickets in advance, as we expect the evening to sell out.

NEW MUSIC

Check out this cool tune from Dylyn, “American Nightmare.”  It’s got a great beat and should keep your body dancing all night.  We think she just might be on to something.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is the latest from Jared Tyler, who we recently reviewed in Get it or Forget it.  This is the title cut to his new album.  It’s definitely worth a listen.  And since it’s a lyric video, you get to learn the words as you watch.

Next for you this week is the latest from Rococode, another of our recent reviews.  We really dig this band, and think you will too.  Check out “Is it Real” and let us know your thoughts.

And now for our comedy spotlight, check out the latest video from Blue Élan artist Scout Durwood.  The song is called “All the Pretty Bottles.”  We think it will get your new week off to a great start.

Last but not least this week is the latest from Brooklyn’s own Jennifer Vazquez, now based in Nashville.  Check out this amazing lyric video for her song, “Rocked,” from her latest album, Rediscovering Me.

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

Get it or forget it: Amilia K. Spicer, Janiva Magness, Scout Durwood

After taking a week off to organize all the album review requests, we are back with three more Get it or Forget it reviews.  Check out the latest from Amilia K. Spicer, Grammy-nominated artist Janiva Magness and Scout Durwood, the latter two both being on the amazing Blue Élan Records.

Artist NameAmilia K Spicer

Album NameWow and Flutter

Label:  Free Range Records

Genre:  Americana Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Fill me Up; 2.  Harlan; 3.  This Town; 4.  Shotgun; 5.  Lightning; 6.  Train Wreck; 7.  Shake it Off; 8.  Windchill; 9.  Down to the Bone; 10.  Wild Horses; 11.  What I’m Saying; 12.  Shine 

Publicist:  Miles High Productions

Review:  Amilia K Spicer is the consummate Americana artist.  Her music is folky and soothing while her earthy vocals perfectly tell the stories in her songs.  What an amazing collection of songs she has gathered, seamlessly written to tell those stories in the down-home tradition of great folk music.  Spicer kicks the album off with the wonderful track “Fill me Up,” and then proceeds to take the listener on a journey of sound that could soothe even the most colicky baby.  From gem to gem she takes us on that journey, until all too soon it is over.  But never fear, you can simply restart the journey at any time.  This is definitely the kind of album you want to hear again and again.  It is hard to pick the best songs on this album, but we really like “Harlan,” “This Town,” “Lightning,” “Down to the Bone,” and “Wild Horses.”

RecommendationWow and Flutter was released on April 28, and is a sure-fire hit for Spicer.  We highly recommend you Get it as soon as you can.  You won’t be sorry.

Artist NameJaniva Magness

Album NameBlue Again

Label:  Blue Élan Records/Fathead Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  I Can Tell; 2.  I Love you More Than You’ll Ever Know; 3.  If I Can’t Have You; 4.  Tired of Walking; 5.  Buck; 6.  Pack it Up 

Publicist:  Conqueroo

Review:  Janiva Magness has the perfect voice for blues – deep, soulful and full of passion.  Her musical accompaniment is also first rate, with appearances by such legends as Kid Ramos, Sugaray Rayford and T.J. Norton.  It is easy to understand why her last album was nominated for a Grammy, and why we think there are more Grammy nominations and wins in her future.  Blue Again is a true blues album, and firmly places Magness among the greats in blues, like BB King, Etta James, Bonnie Raitt and Janis Joplin.   To prove my point, check out the incredible second track, “I Love you More Than You’ll Ever Know.”  This is the album for the consummate blues fan, who will love every track.  We just wish there were more than six tracks.  For the ultimate reminder of blues perfection, check out the duet on track three with Rayford.

RecommendationBlues Again was released on May 12 and is a requirement for every blues-loving music aficionado.  Get it today.

Artist NameScout Durwood

Album NameTake One Thing Off

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Comedy/Spoken Word

Track Listing:  1.  Intro; 2.  Sex Positive; 3.  Take one Thing Off; 4.  Drinking; 5.  All the Pretty Bottles; 6.  Baseball Game; 7.  Fallin’ in Love; 8.  Men in LA; 9.  Brooklyn Ca. 2009; 10.  The NFL; 11.  The Wedding Song; 12.  I’m Cool, Right?; 13.  My Funny Valentine; 14.  Strip Club; 15.  Go Go; 16.  Anxiety Lions; 17.  Taxi Take me Home; 18.  Hate Crime; 19.  Here we Are 

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We were not prepared for this awesome album, with its tongue-in-cheek sexiness.  Scout Durwood is a comedic force to be reckoned with, and the female version of Weird Al.  Whether delivering a comedic monologue or singing the title track, Durwood delivers sexy, adult-themed comedy for real adults.  This album is definitely not for kids and is NSFW.  Her songs are fun and hilarious, while her stand-up routine keeps you in stitches.  Our favorite songs include the title track, “Fallin’ in Love,” Brooklyn Ca. 2009,”  “I’m Cool, Right?” and “Go Go.”  The album includes live comedy routines from her show at The Pack Theater in Los Angeles, and entices the listener to get out and see her live.  If you live in LA, you can see her at The Hotel Café on May 20 at 9 p.m.  We wish we could be there.  Grab your tickets today.

RecommendationTake one Thing Off is scheduled to be released on May 19.  We strongly suggest you Get it and see her live on May 20.