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

Get it or forget it – The Fleeting Ends, Computer Magic, Violetta Zironi, Red Lama, Everett Bird

February has sure flown by.  Hard to believe tomorrow is March already, and within another week, we’ll be rolling the clocks forward an hour to start Daylight Savings Time.  Good thing there are so many great new indie releases to share.  Here are another five for your review.

Artist NameThe Fleeting Ends

Album Name I Know you Lie ‘Coz so do I

Label:  MilkBoy Recording

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  20 Something; 2.  2die4; 3.  How Much Longer; 4.  Waiting for the Drop; 5.  Prove It; 6.  Life’s a Shortcut; 7.  Ache; 8.  Juniper

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  Straight forward indie rock with pop hooks describes the music of The Fleeting Ends on their latest effort.  The songs are radio friendly, with a catchy melody and lyrics.  They have a style similar to groups like Maroon 5 and One Direction.   Their songs would also be appealing to music supervisors, especially “2die4,” “How Much Longer,” “Prove It” and “Juniper.”   We believe these Philly boys are in this business for the long haul, and we expect great things from them in the future.  Best cuts include “2die4,” “How Much Longer,”  “Waiting for the Drop,” “Prove It” (with its amazing acoustic guitar), “Ache” and “Juniper” (which has the same amazing acoustic guitar as “Prove it.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get it.

Artist NameComputer Magic

Album NameDANZ

Label:  Channel 9 Records

Genre:  Electronica

Track Listing:  1.  Amnesia; 2.  Nebraskaland; 3.  Ordinary Life (Message from an A.I. Girlfriend); 4.  Delirium (Don’t Follow the Sheep); 5.  Teegra; 6.  Perfect Game; 7.  Data; 8.  Space and Time/ Pale Blue Dot; 9.  Drift Away; 10.  Clouds

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Although not a huge fan of electronic music, Computer Magic aka Danielle Johnson does have a unique approach in using synthesized computer sound to provide the musical backdrop to her singer-songwriter lyrics.  This is why she has achieve success in such countries as Japan and had her songs placed in commercials for Panasonic and QP Half.  She is a true DIY professional, recording all her music in her own studio for her own label.  She also does all the design work for her nine previous EPs and four albums, as well as her merchandise.  Her music does have an 80’s vibe, as best demonstrated on “Ordinary Life (Message from an A.I. Girlfriend).”

Recommendation:  Give this one a try, purely because of its uniqueness.

Artist NameVioletta Zironi

Album NameHalf Moon Lane

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk Rock/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Toast; 2.  Muddy Fields; 3.  Half Moon Lane; 4.  Song with Felix; 5.  Don’t Make me a Fool; 6.  Let’s get Lost

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Italian songstress Violetta Zironi, though only 22 years old, has an old soul that understands the Americana music scene.  Her songs are well constructed and fit perfectly into this decidely American musical genre.  Her sweet, lilting voice floats on top of the musical accompaniment, soothing the listener.  Both of her previously released singles, “Toast” and “Don’t Make me a Fool” are incredible songs perfect for radio airplay, as well as potential placement in television and film.  She landed a label deal, but realized that her songs were not her own, and did not speak what was in her heart, and decided to do it independently.  We wholeheartedly support this decision, and believe that this young lady will have a very promising and successful career in the States.  We can’t wait to hear what’s coming next.  We also love the flute work in the title cut, as well as the simplicity of the closing tune, “Let’s Get Lost.”

Recommendation:  You simply must Get this one.

Artist Name Red Lama

Album NameMotions

Label:  All Good Clean Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:    1.  Perfect Strangers; 2.  Awakening (ft. Bjonko); 3.  Post Optimism; 4.  Have a Great Today; 5.  Come What May; 6.  Fular; 7.  Wave; 8.  Elements I; 9.  Elements II

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  The international music scene continues to impress us, and this band from Denmark is a prime example.  They have a rocking sound that is fresh and perfect for American radio.  The production is pristine, allowing every nuance of the music to come through crystal clear.  The songs are well-crafted masterpieces, cemented by the soaring vocals.  This one hits the ground running and never lets up.  In many ways they remind us of U2 at their prime during the Joshua Tree period,  Our favorite cuts include “Perfect Strangers,” the amazing instrumentation of “Awakening,” “Have a Great Today,” “Come What May,” “Fular,” and “Elements II.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name Everett Bird

Album NamePeople Person

Label:  Royal Mountain Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/Electronica

Track Listing:  1.  A Blessing in da Sky; 2.  Lizard; 3.  Bucket of Dark Meat; 4.  Paranoid; 5.  My Town; 6.  Shred City Nights; 7.  Plug; 8.  2Mac; 9.  Slitherin’

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  If all we had to go by was the first track, then we would have immediately given this a “Forget it” rating.  Thank goodness it gets better after that horrible first song.  The band settles into a strong indie rock groove on “Lizard,” which continues with their single “Bucket of Dark Meat” (which we featured in our Monday Mashup column),   The best songs are “Paranoid,” “Plug,” “2Mac” and “Slitherin’.”    If you love high energy, in your face rock, you will probably like “My Town” and “Shred City Nights.”

Recommendation:  Overall, the album is worthy of your consideration, however, be prepared to skip a few songs, depending on whether you like the softer reflective or harder rock style of music.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Rvzoo & the Sugar Spun Elephant Band, Keith Harkin, The Components, Janiva Magness, Fishbach

Hope you’re having a good week.  We are so pleased to bring you five more album reviews, including two from one of our favorite indie labels, Blue Élan Records.  Get ready to be wowed.

Artist Name Rvzoo & the Sugar Spun Elephant Band

Album Name Guiding Star

Label:  BBY Records

Genre:  Pop/Americana/Jazz

Track Listing:   1.  When I Was Young; 2.  Give me More; 3.  Which way to Run; 4.  If I was a Bird; 5.  A Song for Joyce; 6.  Lonely Desert Wind; 7.  Guiding Star; 8.  Thru This Space and Time; 9.  Transmission Ends; 10.  A Song for Joyce (reprise)

Publicist:   Self-promoted

Review:  The album kicks off with the band’s current single, which is very reminiscent of 70’s Beatles, particularly the Yellow Submarine album.  The simple musical score reflects the lyrics, which are heavy with pop hooks.  The music truly takes the listener back to a simpler time when growing up was a distant dream.  The next two songs have a much more Americana feel, before the piano takes over on “A Song for Joyce,” giving it a jazz standard feel, before returning to the Americana vibe on “Lonely Desert Wind,” with just a taste of U2/ David Bowie.  The title cut is so relaxing and refreshing, perfect for daily chill time, especially the strings and acoustic guitar.  That vibe continues on the next tracks before morphing into a more electronica/ambient sound on track nine.  The album ends with a reprise of “A Song for Joyce.”  What a magnificent audio journey.

Recommendation:  There are so many twists and turns on this album that you simply must add it to your library.  Get it today.

Artist NameKeith Harkin

Album NameIn the Round

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Folk Rock/Country

Track Listing:  1.  Lauren & I; 2.  I Remember it All; 3.  Along the Road; 4.  Take me Down; 5.  First Time; 6.  Whiskey in the Jar; 7.  Risk the Fall; 8.  Mercy; 9.  Ring Tailed Rat; 10.  Care Free Heart; 11.  My Love Goes On; 12.  September Sessions; 13.  Keep on Rolling; 14.  Wait on Me

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  The first thing you hear is the amazing guitar work before that soaring familiar voice kicks in.  You may have heard Keith Harkin during his ten years with Celtic Thunder, but you haven’t really heard him until you listen to this album.  Harkin has dedicated this album to the victims of the Las Vegas shooting, and we cannot imagine a more fitting musical tribute.  You simply must put this record on repeat, because you will hear different things every time, as all the subtle nuances of his craft come to light.  This live album makes you want to rush out and see him in concert.  His music is flavored by his Celtic past, as well as that pervasive Nashville influence, reminiscent of Keith Urban.  There is not a weak song on the entire album, which has easily become one of our all-time favorites.  We really love his rocking cover of the Celtic standard “Whiskey in the Jar.”  What an interesting arrangement.

Recommendation:  This album is definitely in the running for Best of 2018.  Don’t waste another minute – Get it NOW!

Artist NameThe Components

Album Namecontinuum.

Label:  Mint 400 Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/Grunge

Track Listing:  1.  Parliaments & Witchcraft; 2.  Mayday; 3.  Filthy; 4.  Spirits Help; 5.  Interlude; 6.  Complacent/Complaisant; 7.  Ill Bandito; 8.  Glass Haūs

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Solid rock and roll with a driving beat and guitar is what you get with The Components.  The music definitely drives the song, and makes it easy to get caught up in the rhythm of the music.  Our favorites include “Mayday,” “Filthy” (with its almost two minute instrumental intro), “Interlude,” and “Complacent/Complaisant.”

Recommendation:  This one is worth the chance.  Grab it.

Artist NameJaniva Magness

Album NameLove is an Army

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Back to Blue; 2. Hammer (ft. Charlie Musselwhite); 3.  On and On (ft. Rusty Young; 4.  Tell Me; 5.  Love is an Army (ft. Bryan Stephens; 6.  Down Below (ft. Courtney Hartman); 7.  What’s That say About You; 8.  What I Could Do (ft. Delbert McClintock); 9.  Home (ft. Cedric Burnside); 10.  Love to a Gunfight; 11.  When it Rains; 12.  Some Kind of Love

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  All you have to do is look at the song list and the featured artists (including labelmates Bryan Stephens and Rusty Young), and you know right away that this album is going to be great.  Add to that her 2016 Grammy nomination, her seven Blues Music Awards and a BB King Award, and it becomes quickly obvious that Janiva Magness is the reigning Queen of the Blues.  Her smoky voice and the progressive blues soundtrack make a perfect combination, showcasing her talents at capturing the essence of the song.  We love this album, but our favorite tracks include “Back to Blue,” “Hammer” (with its soulful harmonica), the sweet pedal steel and country sound of “On and On,” “Tell Me,” the title track, “Down Below,” “Home,” “Love to a Gunfight,” and “Some Kind of Love.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer.  You MUST Get this album ASAP!

Artist NameFishbach

Album Name A Ta Merci

Label:  Entreprise

Genre:  French Pop/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Ma Voie Lactée; 2.  Y Crois-Tu; 3.  Eternité; 4.  Un Beau Langage; 5.  Un Autre Que Moi; 6. Feu; 7.  On mi dit Tu; 8.  Invisible Désintégration de l’univers; 9.  Le Chàteau; 10.  Mortel; 11.  Le Meiller de la Féte; 12.  A ta Merci; 13.  Dansne Boîte en papier; 14.  Ajmal Logha (ft. Bachar Mar-Khalifé)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Although this album was released last year in Europe, it was just released in the United States last Friday.  Fishbach definitely transcends the language barrier and delivers music that is hip in any culture.  It is upbeat, fun, and entices you to get up and shake your groove thing.  It has that ABBA feel that is intoxicating, grabbing elements of 80’s dance music set to beautiful French words.  It is easy to see why she won a French Grammy for her music.

Recommendation:  Whether or not you speak French, the joy of the songs comes through loud and clear.  Add this foreign language CD to your musical library – you’ll thank me for it.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 8

The Big Sky Documentary Film Festival has come to a close, and it was a very successful run.  So many of the movies sold out, including a few that we had the pleasure of viewing, such as Dark Money, Fail State and the Greg Barker film The Final Year.  We’ll have more on the winners at the Festival later this week.  For now, here’s the latest news on the indie arts front.

AMERICANAFEST IS ACCEPTING SHOWCASE APPLICATIONS

Showcase submissions for AMERICANAFEST® 2018 are now open and will be accepted through Monday, March 26, 2018. There are two ways to submit:
  • Submissions are open to anyone via our digital platform for a small fee of $25.  Digitally submit here.
  • Become an artist member of the Americana Music Association® today and take advantage of free submissions, access to our expansive artist and industry global community, discounted conference registration rates and more!  To join, click here.  Once you join, you will find a free submission form link in your welcome letter.
Selected artists will showcase Tuesday, September 11 through Sunday, September 16 at many premiere venues throughout Nashville, Tennessee.  For more information, go to our website.
MONTANA REP ANNOUNCES NEW DIRECTOR

Montana Repertory Theatre, the professional theatre-in-residence at the University of Montana School of Theatre & Dance, has selected Michael Legg to become its next artistic director.

Legg is currently the director of the Professional Training Company at Actors Theatre of Louisville, Kentucky.  He will start his new role at the University of Montana on July 1.

Montana Rep celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017.  Greg Johnson, whose tenure with Montana Rep began in 1990, is delighted with the choice.

“Mr. Legg brings youth, vision and vitality at a time when the Rep is poised not only to continue its tradition of touring nationally, but also to be a strong artistic presence in Missoula and the region, as the University of Montana begins its renaissance under our new president.”

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS ARTIST KEITH HARKIN TO PLAY SPECIAL PRE-ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT LA’S HOTEL CAFE

Irish singer/songwriter Keith Harkin (of Celtic Thunder fame) is currently on a Stateside tour in support of his new live solo release, In The Round, his fourth album on Blue Élan Records.

He will perform at Los Angeles’ famed indie listening room The Hotel Cafe (1623 Cahuenga Boulevard, Hollywood) on Saturday, March 5 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are available here for $35 in advance.  We strongly encourage you to attend this show.

NEW SINGLES

 Our first single today comes from Ruby Friedman and Two Beards.  It is an amazing Americana song called “Un4gvn.”  We truly dig it and hope you will too.

We just discovered an amazing British country pop band called Delaware.  They have a new single called “Fire,” and we think it is really hot.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final new single today is a rocking number from Australian artist Reichelt.  Here is “Seduced by the Light Side.”  Let it get your new week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the title track for the forthcoming EP from Keaton Simons, one of Los Angeles’ elite indie artists.  His new EP will be released on March 9 and is being produced by Nashville legendary producer Marshall Altman.  It will have more of an Americana feel than his previous material.  Let us know what you think.

Last week we reviewed the new EP from Marieme, and were truly impressed with her voice and her message.  Here’s the music video for her most personal and powerful song, “Leave.”  This one will move you.

Our final video today comes from another Blue Élan artist, Cindy Alexander.  She has released a lyric video for her song “Passenger,” from her latest album, Nowhere to Hide.  Have a wonderful week.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Craig Kelley Band, VK, Candy Ambulance, Josh Mover and the Shakers, The Lovely Eggs

TGIF!  It’s been a busy week at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, which is winding down this weekend.  We got to celebrate “After the Fire,” the winner of the Tribeca Film Institute‘s $20,000 “If/Then” filmmaker’s pitch competition last night, a film to be completed about the recent fire in Sonoma in northern California.  It sounds like a great film.  While we wait for them to complete it, let’s check out five more new releases today.

Artist NameCraig Kelley Band

Album NameNot so Blue

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Nobody Wins; 2.  Sweet Memory; 3.  Forevermore; 4.  It’s Almost Game Time

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We’ve reviewed a lot of blues her in the past six months, and Craig Kelley is easily one of our favorites.  We love all forms of the blues, and Kelley’s progressive blues rock guitar wails while his voice lays it down thick.  This four-song EP is an impressive start, but we want to hear more, much more.  Kelley and his band truly rock it out on the opening track, “Nobody Wins,” with its socially conscious message that nobody wins with racism or hatred.  “Sweet Memory” has the influence of 60’s/70’s rock acts like Led Zeppelin, Santana and Jimi Hendrix with a trace of the blues to keep it honest.  They slow things down with a rocking guitar solo instrumental on “Forevermore” before closing out the EP with “It’s Almost Game Time,” a southern rock tinged blues masterpiece that leaves the listener anxiously waiting for the next installment.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist NameVK

Album NameTerms & Conditions

Label:  112 Records

Genre:  Americana/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  What Makes Sense; 2.  Terms & Conditions; 3.  Even the Devil Cries; 4.  Edge of the World; 5.  Take the Chance; 6.  Common Ground; 7.  Never Afraid; 8.  I’ve Learned a Lot; 9.  Radiate and Glow

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Mellow folk/Americana is what you will get from VK.  The title track adds in piano and fiddle and has a sound reminiscent of a carnival.  The vocals are smooth and mellow, with well-crafted lyrics and musical accompaniment that take the entire Americana sound to a new and different level.  This is definitely one of those albums you put on, sit back and relax, allowing the mellow sound to ease your troubled mind.

Recommendation:  We can guarantee you don’t have anything like this in your music library, so do yourself a favor and Get it.

Artist NameCandy Ambulance

Album NameSpray

Label:  Nashphone Records

Genre:  Grunge/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Spray; 2.  Weekday; 3.  Cooks in the Kitchen; 4.  Inner Child; 5.  Iowa; 6.  Lips/Dick

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  The sound of Candy Ambulance is like the B-52’s on crack.  It is intense, energetic and fun, especially the title track.  On “Weekday,” that influence turns to Blondie, but continues with the fun.  Just be aware that the songs are laden with F-bombs, especially “Weekday,” “Cooks in the Kitchen,” and “Iowa.”  Other than that, if we could contain the energy in these tracks, we would never have to depend on oil for our power needs.

Recommendation:  Interesting EP that is not for everyone.  If you don’t mind the expletives, and concentrate on the music, the first two tracks are worth the price of the EP.

Artist NameJosh Mover & the Shakers

Album Name Into a Ghost

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Box in the Sky; 2.  When I Steal Your Heart; 3.  Park Benches; 4.  How can I Compete With That?; 5.  Into a Ghost

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  One of the most interesting things about this CD is the fact that it was recorded during a whirlwind span of two days, and includes many local Toronto musicians, including Ben Reinhartz (Dilly Dally), Mathew Wronski (The Sulks), Joseph Landau (ex Formalists), Will Hunter (The Nutrients) and Clara Klein.  It was mastered by David Newfeld (Broken Social Scene and recorded and mixed at Union Sound Company by Ian Gomes (Odonis Odonis, Teenanger).  It’s indie rock sound contains elements of punk with fun pop hooks, and should appeal to most lovers of indie rock.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth a listen, we recommend you Get it.

Artist NameThe Lovely Eggs

Album NameThis is Eggland

Label:  Egg Records

Genre:  Punk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Hello I am Your Sun; 2.  Wiggy Giggy; 3.  Dickhead; 4.  I Shouldn’t Have Said That; 5.  Return of Witchcraft; 6.  I’m With You; 7.  Repeat It; 8.  Witchcraft; 9.  Big Sea; 10.  Let me Observe; 11.  Would you F*ck

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Long a leading member of the British Underground music scene, The Lovely Eggs bring an overall harder edge to their punk sound with their latest effort.  The first two tracks, though, is closer to indie rock than punk.  Appropriately enough, “Dickhead” is the first of the harder songs, and they continue from that point until “Big Sea,” which returns to the indie rock sound.

Recommendation:  If you love punk rock, and harder indie rock, then this is just up your alley.  If not, then just forget it.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Larry Lacerte, Ghost of You, Lomboy, Marieme, Jamison Isaak

It’s Thursday, and we are so thankful to be able to continually bring you new and exciting indie artists to check out.  We are also so thankful to be able to host one of the biggest documentary film festivals in the country, and are having a blast volunteering in support of the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.  Here are five more artists that are worthy of your attention.

Artist Name Larry Lacerte

Album NameDreaming of the Ways

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Dreaming of the Ways; 2.  Work of Love; 3.  One More Whiskey; 4.  Love me Wrong; 5.  Alone

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We met Larry Lacerte at last year’s Durango Songwriters Expo and were impressed with his style.  He has just released his first studio EP, and it has lived up to the standards he demonstrated at Durango.  It is the perfect cross-over between Roots Rock, Americana and Country, and should do well in any of those formats.  The songs are well crafted and feature the perfect country voice of Lacerte.  We especially love the banjo on “Work of Love,” as well as the amazing slide guitar on “One More Whiskey.”  “Love me Wrong” reminds us of a cross between Jason Aldean and Clint Black.  He closes the all-too-short five-song EP with “Alone,” which reminds us many of our greatest accomplishments happen when we are forging our own way.  We can’t wait for what’s next for this talented indie artist.

Recommendation:  You should definitely Get this one.  It has all the makings of a breakout hit.

Artist NameGhost of You

Album NameBlack Yoga

Label:  Indies Scope

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Recognize; 2.  Break Into Eden; 3.  Skeleton; 4.  Locust; 5.  Tempest; 6.  Feast; 7.  The Ark Won’t Come; 8.  A Rifle and a Spoon

Publicist:  Indies Scope

Review:  All the way from the Czech Republic comes Ghost of You, who bill themselves as psychedelic art-rock.  We think they are more than that.  The first track, “Recognize” is eerily reminiscent of U2, while “Break into Eden,” with its amazing bass work, and “Skeleton” have more of a techno sound.  In fact, that tag applies to the majority of the album.  This music would do well in the EDM/Dance scene, so DJ’s take notice.  They have accomplished their mission of taking rock into a different arena.  Well done.

Recommendation:  Give these guys a chance, America, and check out the European rock scene.

Artist NameLomboy

Album NameWarped Caress

Label:  Cracki Records

Genre:  Dream Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Alien Lady; 2.  Worth to You; 3.  Loverboy; 4.  Love Ain’t got the Groove; 5.  Director’s Paralysis

Publicist:  Practise Music

Review:  Lomboy splits her time between Paris and Tokyo, with backing bands in both cities.  Her music has an 80’s pop feel, reminiscent of Madonna, and is perfect for radio.  Her music is dreamy and airy, with heavenly vocals on top of a dance soundtrack that is just as enjoyable to listen to as it is to dance to.  Her sound is multi-dimensional, with “Alien Lady” being more of a dance track while “Worth to You,” with its stunning flute solos, a very dreamy pop sound that is perfect for chill time.  On “Loverboy,” she incorporates her Japanese influence while the overall track is reminiscent of a cross between Enya and Dido.

Recommendation:  Don’t pass this one up.  Get it today.

Artist NameMarieme

Album NameMarieme

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Leave; 2.  Be the Change (The Shelter); 3.  Ask for Help

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Senegalese-native Marieme is taking America by storm with her powerful voice and timely, socially-driven lyrics.  Her style is similar to such other powerful artists as Erykah Badu, Billie Holiday and Lauryn Hill.  The emotion behind the lead track, “Leave,” conveys what it was like to leave her native country and come to America to start fresh.  The second track, “Be the Change (The Shelter,” is a moving ballad that compels us to not wait for others to lead the charge for change, but to be the one that does it.  Her final track, “Ask for Help,” is the corresponding call for action.  We feel Marieme has a huge future in this business.

Recommendation:  This is our pick of the month.  Get it immediately.

Artist Name Jamison Isaak

Album NameEP1

Label:  FLORA

Genre:  Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Sharalee; 2.  Upstairs; 3.  Wind; 4.  More

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Jamison Isaak has been making music under the monikers Teen Daze, Two Bicycles and Pacific Coliseum for years, but this is his first time recording under his own name.  His music is meditative, reflective and perfect for chilling.  It explores the beauty of piano and pedal steel guitar, and fills the room with such calm that the listener can relax and reflect.  He is already getting critical praise from the likes of NPR, and he lives up to the hype.

Recommendation:  If you enjoy a musical interlude while you meditate, or just appreciate great music, then you must Get this one.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Kevin Fisher, Johnny Tucker, Barren Womb, Viv and the Revival, Thrillchaser

Happy Hump Day!  It’s beautiful here in Montana, although a little cold, but that is not keeping the crowds away from the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.  We are having a blast presenting these documentaries, and can hardly believe that the Festival is almost over.  At least we have some more indie artists to review, so here we go with five more.

Artist NameKevin Fisher

Album Name Beer Me

Label:  37 Records

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Beer; 2.  Beer Me; 3.  Dog Beers; 4.  I Wish you  Were Beer; 5.  Better Beer; 6.  To Beer or not to Beer; 7.  I Like Beer; 8.  Beer in the Fridge; 9.  Beerly Beloved; 10.  Beer Thirty; 11.  Beer Blue Sky; 12.  Last Call

Publicist:  McJames Music

ReviewBeer Me was released last October.  Since then, Kevin Fisher has released a couple of singles.  His current single, “Beer Thirty,” is currently sitting at #1 on the Hot Disk UK charts for the third week in a row.  The album contains a 12-pack of songs about beer with titles that are tongue in cheek, and feature co-writes on seven of the tunes.   Fisher has that perfect voice for country music, and the songs are truly radio ready gems for die-hard country fans that love their beer.  Our favorite cuts are the title track, “Dog Beers,” “Better Beer,” “Beer in the Fridge,” “Beer Thirty,” and “Last Call.”

Recommendation:  If you love country music, or beer in general, you will get a kick out of this CD.  Get it before “Last Call.”

Artist NameJohnny Tucker

Album Name Seven Day Blues

Label:  Highjohn Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1,  Talkin’ About you Baby; 2.  Tired of Doing Nothing; 3.  Why do you let me Down so Hard; 4.  Love and Appreciation (to Georgia); 5.  Seven Day Blues; 6.  Come on Home With Me; 7.  Tell you All; 8.  Something I Want to Tell You; 9.  Gonna Give you one More Chance; 10.  I Wanna do It; 11.  Do Right Man; 12.  One of These Days; 13.  I Can’t Wait; 14.  Listen Everybody; 15.  You can Leave my House

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Johnny Tucker broke into the business back in 1964, hooking up with Phillip Walker and singing James Brown.  He later became the drummer for Walker’s band and began touring the world for the next 34 years.  This is his second album since returning to music in 2006, and he has not lost a step.  This time around, he collaborates with such monumental blues players as Big Jon Atkinson, Bob Corritore and Kid Ramos in creating this perfect 15-song disc that celebrates the beauty of traditional blues.  His voice brings back memories of some of his peers, like Muddy Waters, BB King and Fats Domino.  This is an album to relish and savor.  Just put it on, sit back, and reminisce about the return of the glory days of the blues.

Recommendation:  If you are a music historian, or simply love the blues, you simply must Get this one.  It is a national treasure.

Artist NameBarren Womb

Album NameOld Money / New Lows

Label:  Spartan Records

Genre:  Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Crook Look; 2.  Mystery Meat; 3.  Theory of Anything; 4.  Slumlord Millionaire; 5.  Cave Dweller; 6.  Drive-Thru Liquor Store; 7.  Mad 187 Skills; 8.  Russian Hankerchief

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Norwegian rockers Barren Womb have returned with a new album, nearly three years after the last project, and are planning an extensive tour of Europe and Scandinavia to promote their music.  They call their music “Noise Rock,” and the description is apt.  It is a cross between metal and Beastie Boys, with the lyrics more spoken than sung, and a heavy metal/rock musical score.  This music is not for everyone, but true metal-heads will dig it, especially the current single, “Mystery Meat.”

Recommendation:  If you are a lover of metal and/or hard rock, then you should definitely check out Barren Womb.   If not, then you should probably forget it.

Artist NameViv and the Revival

Album NamePerfect High

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Perfect High; 2.  Stop my Heart; 3.  Lost in the Fire; 4.  Cannonball; 5.  Nikki

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Viv and the Revival have a perfect radio sound that is missing from current programming.  From the amazing title track through the final notes of “Nikki,” this band gives us incredible music, with an indie rock sound that is perfect for Top 40, as well as serious consideration by music supervisors looking for hot tunes to incorporate into television and film projects.  We really love the rocking “Stop my Heart,” with its killer guitar riffs, but all five songs are hot.  We can’t wait to hear what they come up with next.

Recommendation:  This one is a keeper.  Get it now.

Artist NameThrillchaser

Album NameA Lot Like Love

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Emptiness; 2.  Out of our Minds; 3.  A Lot Like Love; 4.  Like That; 5.  Wildflower; 6.  Hold on to the Night; 7.  fivetwentyfive; 8.  Invisible; 9.  Still got a Hold on Me; 10.  Juliet

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  Thrillchaser, formerly known as American Wolves, have returned to bring us incredible pop/rock tunes.  As American Wolves, they had a hit single with “Part of Me,” which went viral on YouTube and Spotify, and their new tunes as Thrillchaser will surely exceed that high bar they set.  Thrillchaser has released a lyric video for their first single, “Wildflower,” which has gained them 10.1K Facebook fans in only three weeks.  Clearly this band is on to something, and radio programmers and music supervisors need to stand up and take notice of their music.  This is pop music that appeals to all ages, and is just what our stale Top 40 stations need to perk up their listeners.  “Hold on to the Night” is already being featured on idobi radio.  Don’t be surprised to see this one on the list of Grammy nominees next year.  If the Academy overlooks this band, they are doing everyone a disservice.

Recommendation:  If you love music, then this band MUST be on  your radar.  Drop everything and Get it now.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Susan Williams and the Wright Groove, Sly and Robbie meet Dubmatix, Ann, Cvltvre, The Reverend Shawn Amos

Greeting from the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival!  We are actively engaged in the Festival, but taking time to bring you review of five new artists.  We hope you enjoy them.

Artist Name Susan Williams & The Wright Groove

Album NameIt’s About Time

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Tell me you Love Me; 2.  Love What U Do; 3.  Loving U From a Distance; 4.  Shame on You; 5.  I’m Sorry; 6.  Meet me in the Middle; 7.  Another Thing Coming; 8.  One Way Street; 9.  Please Come Back to Me; 10.  Keep Moving On; 11.  Too Little Too Late

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  Susan Williams is an iconic Chicago-based blues bassist who, along with her band The Wright Groove, is releasing their debut album.  They also competed in this year’s International Blues Challenge.  The album is chock full of amazing blues riffs, dynamic keys and kick-ass progressive and traditional blues featuring the soulful voice of Williams, who penned nine of the album’s eleven tracks.  They have definitely set the bar high for their next project, and we fully believe that they will continue to excel.  Our favorites include “Tell me you Love Me,” “Love What U Do,” “Love U From a Distance,” “I’m Sorry,” “Another Thing Coming,” “One Way Street,” “Please Come Back to Me,” and “Keep Moving On” – practically the entire album.

Recommendation:  Don’t even hesitate, just Get this one.

Artist NameSly & Robbie meet Dubmatix

Album NameOverdubbed

Label:  Echo Beach

Genre:  Dubstep, Triphop/Electronic, Reggae

Track Listing:  1.  Dictionary; 2.  Smoothie (ft. Prince Alla, Screechy Dan, Megative); 3.  Riding East; 4.  Great Escape; 5.  Great Wall

Publicist:  RDX Promo

Review:  Jamaican’s Sly Dunbar (drummer) and Robbie Shakespeare (bassist) have combined with Canadian Dubmatix to produce this interesting dance mix.  The tracks range from dubstep to reggae to breakbeat, triphot, Afro-Brazilian and electronic, but all of them are fun to listen and dance to.  We are still amazed at the level of talent in the international indie community, and are so happy to be part of spreading this music to America.  This album should be of interest to every dance DJ out there looking for great mixes.

Recommendation:  If you are a DJ, we strongly encourage you to check out this collaboration.  If you just love reggae music, then this is the one for you.

Artist NameAnn

Album Name Let Go

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  R&B/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Try (ft. Will Gittens); 2.  Todd’s Song; 3.  So Familiar; 4.  Let Go

Publicist:  Camp Entertainment Worldwide

Review:  Ann was born in Nairobi, Kenya but now calls Worcester, Massachusetts her home.  She has competed on such shows as X-Factor and American Idol, and has interestingly enough decided to release her four track EP as a series of audio only tracks on YouTube.   She has also chosen to forego Facebook and instead base her social media through Instagram and Twitter.  Please be advised that these songs are rated Mature (language).  The first track is a duet with Will Gittens that is slow, sexy and steamy.    The second is a slam at a former boyfriend.

Recommendation:  This one deserves to be checked out simply because of its uniqueness.  We think the voice will grab you and keep you.

Artist NameCvltvre

Album NameAll Life Is // Act 1:  An Act of Letting Go

Label:  Standby Records

Genre:   Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Blame; 2.  Birthday Song; 3.  Progression; 4.  Drown; 5.  Pour These Words

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Cvltvre is an Inland Empire (California) based rock band releasing their second EP, the first of a four-part series dealing with self-purpose and identity.  “Drown,” the fourth track is the first single off the EP,  They have also released a music video for the second track, “Birthday Song,” a rocking ballad.  In fact, the musical diversity of this EP is what sets it apart from its peers, and make Cvltvre a band worthy of industry attention.

Recommendation:  If you love rock, definitely check this one out.

Artist NameThe Reverend Shawn Amos

Album Name The Reverend Shawn Amos Breaks it Down

Label:  Put Together Records

Genre:  Blues/Gospel

Track Listing:  1,  Moved; 2.  2017; 3.  Hold Hands; 4.  The Jean Genie; 5.   Freedom Suite – Uncle Tom’s Prayer; 6.  Freedom Suite – Does my Life Matter; 7.  Freedom Suite – (We’ve got to) Come Together; 8.  Ain’t Gonna Name Names; 9.  (What’s so Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  This is an interesting effort, delivering a message of freedom and the search for civil rights in the form of the blues, including a three-song “Freedom Suite” that includes an acapella reading of Uncle Tom’s Prayer before expounding on the words of Booker T. Washington and Martin Luther King.  The album plays like a passion play, and needs to be listened to in its entirety without skipping around.  All we can say is “Preach it.”

Recommendation:  If you are at all concerned about civil rights, then this one is a must for you.  Hopefully it will empower change in this world.

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 7

Mother Nature has made it clear these past few days that she’s not ready for spring yet here in Montana, as we have been bombarded with snow, high winds and sub-zero temperatures.  Regardless of the weather, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival kicked off last Friday night with a sold-out screening of the film Dark Money, attended by our very own Governor.  Attendance at other screenings on Saturday, Sunday and today have been high, including quite a few sell-outs, including Forever B, the one I attended tonight about kidnap victim Jan Broberg, a child kidnap victim and author of Loss of Innocence.

We have a bit of news for you today, as well as four new singles and three new music videos, so let’s get to it.

DIANA REIN LAUNCHES CROWD-FUNDING CAMPAIGN

Referred to as the “The Six-String Siren,” LA Music Critic Award winner Diana Rein has announced the launch of a crowd-funding campaign for her upcoming album, Queen Of My Castle. The follow-up to her critically-lauded 2016 release Long Road, Queen Of My Castle is being co-produced by Michael Leasure (drummer extraordinaire with the Walter Trout Band).

“The new album is a collection of 15 songs, with one of those songs being a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan,” says Rein, just back from representing Guitar Girl Magazine at the 2018 NAMM Conference.  Rein is the featured artist for the month of April in their 2018 Calendar.  “There’s a lot of traditional blues, as well as high energy, upbeat, and blues-rock songs that I know you guys will love. This album will be lucky #3 for me and my first full-band album.  I loved making my last record on my own, but I am really looking forward to challenging myself this time around and collaborating with the pros.”

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL NEWS

The Hollywood Fringe Festival is getting ready for their ninth run June 7-24, and is looking for interns and volunteers, specifically in the areas of Fringe Central Set Design, Events, Volunteer Coordinator and Cabaret.  Interning with the Fringe is the best way to get hands on experience behind the scenes of the largest performing arts festival in the west.  Interns work directly with Fringe staff to help run various aspects of the festival.  Click the link for position details.  If you are interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to internships@hollywoodfringe.org.  Please specify which position you are interested in.  The deadline to apply is April 1.

NEW SINGLES

Here’s the first single from the forthcoming album People Person by Everett Bird.  The single is entitled “Bucket of Dark Meat,” and we think you’ll like it.  It is different from many of the songs featured here, so get ready to try something new.

https://soundcloud.com/royalmountain/03-bucket-of-dark-meat/s-5vsqk?in=royalmountain/sets/everett-bird-people-person/s-TOwD8

Next up is “The Monster” from LA based garage rock band Bird Concerns.  This one truly rocks.

Our third single today is from folk singer songwriter Brown Kid.  It is definitely a step down energy wise from the previous song, but it is different enough to pass on to you.  The song is entiled “Sunrise” and we want to hear your feedback.

https://soundcloud.com/brown_kid_music/sunrise-single

Our final single today is from another LA Music Critic Award winner, Sleep Machine.  They are releasing their newest album one song at a time.  Here is “Mother.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our favorite Italian rock band is back with another hot video.  Check out “Never Obey” from Black Mamba.  We guarantee this one will rock your sock.

Our next video is the latest from Allison Iraheta and Mathew Hager, aka Halo Circus.  It is a video for their single “Narcissist,” which we debuted two weeks ago.  Please let us know what you think.

Blue Élan Records continues to bring back classic bands, and the latest to return is Fanny Walked the Earth.  Here is the video for “Lured Away,” their first single in 34 years.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Jeremy Romeo, Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra, The Crowleys, Earwig, Kyler England

We made it to Friday and the weekend.  It’s gonna be a busy one for us with opening night of the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival tonight.  The opening night movie is Dark Money, the story of how Montana stopped the influx of corporate money in state and local political campaigns.  Governor Bullock will be among the dignitaries attending tonight’s screening, so it should be an interesting evening.  In the meantime, we have five more artists to review, including a couple of our favorites.  Let’s get started.

Artist NameJeremy Romeo

Album NameAll You’re Meant to Be

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock/Country

Track Listing:  1.  This is Home; 2.  Lights of Boston; 3.  Here With You; 4.  Said and Done; 5.  All You’re Meant to Be; 6.  See you Soon

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Aussie Jeremy Romeo is a rising star in his own country and ready to expand his musical reach to America.  He has a sound similar to Keith Urban meets the Plain White T’s, a mixture of pop, rock and country.  His songs are well crafted and his unique soaring voice is perfectly suited to this type of music.  All six songs are great and deserve attention for American radio station managers.  Don’t be surprised to see Romeo become the latest Aussie musician to make it in America.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you check out this rising star before he becomes too big and  Get his EP.

Artist NameMarty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra

Album NameStereoscope

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Firmament; 2.  Southern Road; 3.  Ghost; 4.  Fish in a Rut; 5.  Come and go Heartbeat; 6.  Hard Time Killing Floor Blues; 7.  Stereoscope; 8.  Off and on Again; 9.  Let the Wind In; 10.  Battlefields; 11.  Spacehorse

Publicist:  Big Picture Media

Review:  Just when you think you’ve heard everything possible within the roots/Americana genre, a group like Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra reinvent the genre.  Mixing elements of blues, swing, country and traditional Americana into their own unique style is what makes this group a driving force in the Americana community, and this album a preview of what is yet to come to one of the most interesting and diverse genres in American music.  With raspy vocals, often discordant strings, a driving rhythm section, songs that tell a story and the accompanying soundtrack to vividly paint the picture, we are impressed with the quality and foresight of this album.  We love this album, but our favorites are “Southern Road,” “Ghost,” “Fish in a Rut,” “Off and on Again,” “Battlefields,” and “Spacehorse.”

Recommendation:  This album is great for those music lovers that like to be on the cutting edge.  We recommend you Get this one.

Artist NameThe Crowleys

Album NameColours Change Their Tones

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Pink Rainbows; 2.  Midnight Blue; 3.  Stargazer; 4.  Girl What; 5.  L.A. Sunset; 6.  Pansy Party Extravaganza

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:   The Crowleys bring us cosmic electronic pop, with airy sounds that soar above the music, creating an audio and visual picture that is all too vivid.  We only wish there were more than six songs to enjoy.  These songs would be excellent placement material for television and movies, and music supervisors would be wise to check out their entire catalog of musical treasures.  For music lovers, the uniqueness of their sound will make a welcome addition to your personal music library.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.  It will grow on you.

Artist NameEarwig

Album NameGibson Under Mountain

Label:  Lizard Family Music

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Trees; 2.  Star Cross’d; 3.  Not About You; 4.  Her Heart; 5.  Lovesong Cockroach; 6.  Sleepyhead; 7.  Next Christmas; 8.  Glorious & Gloom; 9.  Wicked; 10.  Shiny Morning; 11.  Rumplestiltskin

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This album was originally released back in 2011, but the band has decided to remix it and release it again this month, in anticipation of a brand new album to be released later this year.  It was originally mixed and produced by Mike Landolt, who has also done great work with Maroon 5 and the Spin Doctors, and contains several tracks that are radio-ready, reminiscent of the Gin Blossoms and the Spin Doctors.  Earwig has always been an underground favorite, and maybe the attention that is sure to come will help elevate them to a more recognizable and household band.  The band’s high intensity rock is evident from the beginning of the first track, “Trees,” and continues throughout this album.  Our favorites include “Star Cross’d,” “Not About You,” “Sleepyhead,” “Next Christmas,” “Wicked,” and “Shiny Morning.”

Recommendation:  This is the indie rock band of the future, available now.  Don’t miss this opportunity to Get one of their best offerings.

Artist NameKyler England

Album NameThe Wilderness

Label:  Gypsy Rock Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Best is yet to Come; 2.  Little Light; 3.  Holding up the Sky; 4.  Never Gonna get Over You; 5.  Give up the Ghost

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Kyler England has been a successful singer-songwriter in Los Angeles long  before she joined up with two of her friends, Gabriel Mann and Adrienne Gonzales to form The Rescues.  The release of this new EP about heartbreak and healing comes on the one year anniversary of finding out she was going to have a baby.  She transparently discusses her infertility and pregnancy loss on the way to having her son.   All five songs are incredible, as we have come to expect from England.  The songs would also easily translate into the three-part harmonies of The Rescues.  As England so aptly says in the first track, “The Best is Yet to Come.”  We can hardly wait for her next inspired tracks.

Recommendation:  Don’t think twice.  Get this one now!

 

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

Get it or Forget it – Ruby Boots, Laurie Morvan, Reverend Raven and the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys, Flood County, Pink Tea

We hope you survived Valentine’s Day and are ready for President’s Day weekend.  Here in Missoula, the annual Big Sky Documentary Film Festival kicks off tomorrow, so that will be taking a lot of our time for the next 10 days.  In the meantime, we have five more reviews for your today, so let’s get started.

Artist NameRuby Boots

Album NameDon’t Talk About It

Label:  Bloodshot Records

Genre:  Country/Rock/Blues

Track Listing:  1.  It’s so Cruel; 2.  Believe in Heaven; 3.  Don’t Talk About It; 4.  Easy way Out; 5.  Break my Heart Twice; 6.  I’ll Make it Through; 7.  Somebody Else; 8.  I am a Woman; 9.  Infatuation; 10.  Don’t Give a Damn

Publicist:  Bloodshot Records

Review:  Donny & Marie used to joke about her being a little bit country and him being a little bit rock and roll.  Even a casual listen to Ruby Boots, and you can say that she is definitely both, with a little blues thrown in for good measure.  Like Keith Urban, she is Australian born and Nashville based, and appears to be ready to make her mark with this debut album.  The Texas Gentlemen provide the musical backing, which perfect suits the vocal abilities of Boots, and allow her to expand outside of the traditional country sound.   We really love the slow country goodness of the title track and “Don’t Give a Damn,” as well as “Easy Way Out,” “Break my Heart Twice,” “I’ll Make it Through,” and “Infatuation.”

Recommendation:  If you like your country with a little bit of grit, rock and blues, then this is the perfect combination for you.  We highly recommend you Get this one into your musical library.

Artist NameLaurie Morvan

Album NameGravity

Label:  Screaming Lizard Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  My Moderation; 2.  Twice the Trouble; 3.  Stay With Me; 4.  Money Talks; 5.  The Extra Mile; 6.  Gravity; 7.  Dance in the Rain; 8.  Gotta Dig Deep; 9.  The Man who Left Me; 10.  Shake Your Tailfeathers; 11.  I Want Answers; 12.  Too Dumb to Quit

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  We first heard of Laurie Morvan quite a few years back when we caught her act at a little bar in Huntington Beach called Martini Blues.  She has obviously spent the time between then and now refining her craft and becoming one of the premier blues bands in Southern California.  Morvan brings the traditional blues to life with amazing vocals and well-crafted lyrics, set on a bed of rocking blues.  All the songs are her original compositions.  Listening to Morvan, it quickly becomes clear that the future of the blues is safe as long as artists like her continue to be a part of this great genre.  Her songs would also fit comfortably on many radio stations, including NPR, as this is just great music.  The keys, especially on the first two tracks, “My Moderation” and “Twice the Trouble,” are second to none, and set this music apart from many of her blues peers.  There isn’t a bad track on the album, so just sit back and enjoy it from start to finish.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, then this album belongs at the top of your musical library.  Get it now.

Artist NameReverend Raven & the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys

Album NameMy Life

Label:  Nevermore Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Handyman; 2.  Bee Hive Baby; 3.  Creature of Habit; 4.  Bad Little Girls; 5.  I Want to Love You; 6.  Once the Women Start Talking; 7.  My Life; 8.  Here Comes my Baby; 9.  Praying for a Princess; 10.  Big Bee; 11.  Looking for Love; 12.  Slow Burn; 13.  Someday When I’m Dead and Gone; 14.  I can do you Right; 15.  She’s Moving On; 16.  I’m Your Honeyboy

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Milwaukee-based Reverend Raven and the Chain Smokin’ Altar Boys have been playing Chicago-style blues for the past 20 years, and their new album is a tribute to that career.  It contains remixes of some of their greatest hits.  With a mixture of blues, swing, rhumba, roadhouse, delta and jump blues, their sound is as unique as their line-up, featuring the smooth baritone voice of Reverend Raven as well as the musicianship of Cadillac Pete Rahn, Madison Slim, Benny Rickun, Big Al Groth, Mickey Larson, Danny Moore and Westside Andy.  You can’t go wrong with this amazing collection of original songs.  Like Morvan, simply put this album on and groove.

Recommendation:  This amazing collection belongs in your library, regardless of your musical tastes.  Get it before it’s gone.

Artist NameFlood County

Album NameWe’ll be Fine

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Tumbling Down; 2.  Most of the Time; 3.  Easter Monday; 4.  Start Swinging; 5.  World Come Undone; 6.  That Old Famous Smile; 7.  Easier That Way; 8.  Kris & Rita; 9.  We’ll be Fine; 10.  The Road

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This dynamic duo create traditional country music with a Tejano edge, perfect harmonies and toe-tapping musical background.  The fiddle and pedal steel are smoking, and those vocals will have you drooling in no time.  Add to that the horns and guitar and you have the makings of some of the finest country music you have ever heard, perfect for two-stepping and waltzing around the dance floor.  Our favorite tracks include “Tumbling Down,” Most of the Time,” “Start Swinging,” “That Old Famous Smile,” “Kris & Rita,” and “The Road.”

Recommendation:  If you love your country traditional, then you simply must Get this one.

Artist NamePink Tea

Album Name Pink Tea

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Alt/Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Smoko; 2.  Atlantis (Sick City); 3.  Old Vines Don’t Make the Best Wine; 4.  Tea Party Nadine; 5.  Social Graces & Melted Faces

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Indie rock comes in many forms, and this latest from Aussie Tom Murphy aka Pink Tea is some of the best we’ve heard.  These songs should do very well on American radio, and deserve the attention of every college and major rock station.  The album is all about growing up into a mature adult while realizing you little you still know.  The album shares his personal story while presenting the problems along with the positive solutions he has discovered.  We just wish there were more than five tracks, cause we could listen to his voice all day long, very reminiscent of Tom Petty.

Recommendation:  Don’t miss out on the opportunity to add this artist to your musical collection.  Get it today and spread the Aussie love.