Month: July 2018

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

Get it or forget it – Brigitte Purdy, Joakim, Shelby Texas, Sonia Leigh, Dinamarca

Ready to check out new indie music?  You came to the right place then.  Here are five new releases for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Brigitte Purdy

Album Name:  Still I Rise

Label:  Dirtshack Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Hoodoo; 2.  Be the Light; 3.  Home is in my Heart; 4.  My Kinda Blues; 5.  Last Time; 6.  Get it Understood; 7.  If I Could; 8.  Lucille Don’t you Weep; 9.  Blues Angel; 10.  Still I Rise

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  We met Brigitte Purdy at the LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase when she came to support Pam Taylor.  We had no idea at the time how amazing she was, but after reviewing her latest CD, we are believers!  This petite young lady can wail, and is eerily as powerful a vocalist as Janis Joplin, Etta James and Aretha Franklin.  She also has a plethora of amazing guest musicians on her CD, including Blues Music Award winner Kenny Neal on Harmonica, So Cal guitarist Dave Osti (who also produced the CD) and the Blues Angel rhythm section and Donnell Spencer Jr.  Purdy uses elements of blues, gospel, R&B, funk, soul and rock in creating this very unique mixture that showcases her multiple talents.  We fully expect this young lady to take on the rest of the blues world and quickly rise to the top.  Every song is a winner, and you can’t go wrong with any of these tracks.

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

Artist Name:  Joakim

Album Name:  The Studio Venezia Sessions

Label:  The Vinyl Factory

Genre:  Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Orange; 2.  Trust; 3.  Dead; 4.  Arms; 5.  Innuendo; 6.  Air; 7.  Comes; 8.  Absence; 9.  Dream

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society Communications

Review:  Studio Venezia is a musician’s playground, with a myriad of instruments from medieval times to the present.  Joakim uses many of these instruments on this very intriguing instrumental album that is unlike anything we have heard before.  The result is an album of diverse sounds that somehow mesh well, creating a dreamy landscape of sound pictures that could form the perfect soundscape for a myriad of placement opportunities in commercials, film or television.  These are not the type of songs you would hear on the radio, except maybe NPR.  Nevertheless, they are interesting enough that you should definitely check them out.

Recommendation:  Give it a spin.

Artist Name:  Shelby, Texas

Album Name:  We are Shelby, Texas

Label:  Self-Released

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  No Regrets, 2.  Right Side; 3.  Unrequited; 4.  Home; 5.  Tennessee; 6.  Gasoline; 7.  Glory (acoustic)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Shelby, Texas is a country duo from San Francisco, California led by vocalist Shelby Lanterman.  Their sound is fresh and pure, bringing back the traditional country sound but with a modern twist.  The guitar work of her partner, Texas McCauley, is a thing of beauty  He takes lead vocals on “Right Side,” “Home,” and “Gasoline.”  We especially love the harmonies on “Home” and “Glory,”  as the combination of their voices is downright heavenly.  This duo has a bright future in the industry, and we highly recommend radio station managers, tour mangers and music supervisors take notice of this amazing duo.

Recommendation:  As the name of the first track suggests, if you Get this CD, you will have “No Regrets.”

Artist Name:  Sonia Leigh and Friends

Album Name:  Live in London:  Studio 3 Sessions

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Clair de Lune, pt. 1; 2.  Alabama Bound; 3.  My Name is Money; 4.  Bar; 5.  Jack is Back; 6.  Sweet Annie; 7.  Dead Mans Sunrise; 8.  Walking in the Moonlight; 9.  Ladder to the Moon; 10.  Rob the Man; 11.  Sky Submarine; 12.  Ol’ 55; 13.  Clair de Lune, pt. 2

Publicist:  Alliance Media Relations

Review:  Sonia Leigh is one of those artists who you have probably heard and loved but didn’t know who she was.  She wrote “Sweet Annie” and “Goodbye in her Eyes” and both became huge #1 hits for the Zac Brown Band.  She is one of the most sought after songwriters in Nashville, and a killer guitar player.  She spent most of the past year in the UK, where she and her friends recorded this album in the famed Abbey Road Studios.  She has an amazing voice that is part Janis Joplin and the rest Bonnie Raitt, and to quote one of her songs, “My Name is Money.”  Truer words have never been spoken, as we believe this young lady can challenge anyone in the congested country music market.  She has the grit and humor of Gretchen Wilson, and we hereby dub her the new “Redneck Woman.”  We love her version of “Sweet Annie,” which shows the passion in her songwriting, and clearly demonstrates why Zac Brown wanted to record it.

Recommendation:  If  you love country, you must have this one in your collection.  Get it!

Artist Name:  Dinamarca

Album Name:  Sol De Mi Vida

Label:  Rinse

Genre:  Trance/EDM

Track Listing:  1.  Sol; 2.  Dino; 3.  Jevi; 4.  Campana; 5.  Mi Todo; 5.  Tú y Yo; 7.  Luna

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society Communications

Review:  The founder of indie record label Staycore, Dinamarca reimagines the music of Latin America with an electronic sound that is perfectly suited for use by house DJs and should be heard in every dance club in the world.  A mixture of trance and reggaeton, it is completly original and sublime.  Hailing from Chile, Dinamarca is now part of the buzzing Swedish music scene, and they should be very lucky to have him.  This one is a keeper.

Recommendation:  If you love to dance or move your body, you can’t find a better soundtrack.  Get it and see for yourself.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 25

Happy Monday!  So glad to have another opportunity to share new music with you.  It’s gonna be busy now since I just started working full-time as of yesterday, but we will still get  you lots of great music to review and consider.  Here is what’s new this week.

WORLD PREMIERE SNEAK PREVIEWS

We have been asked to premiere a couple of songs for you this week.  Both of these songs will be available for purchase or streaming on Friday, July 20.

First up is Liron, who reminds us of the best of Arianna Grande but with her own passion.  Please enjoy her new song “Pina Colada” and don’t forget to visit your favorite retailer (itunes, Spotify, etc) on Friday to download it or stream it for yourself.  Definitely check out her website for all the links.  We think you’ll be hearing a lot more from this future pop princess.

Our second premiere is from the sophomore album of Chelsea Gill, a pop-country artist from Nashville, courtesy of our friend, Gayle Davidson.  Expectations are high for this bright young artist, and we think she has a definite chance at making it big.  Check out “Ray-Bans” and visit her website for links to more of her music.

NEW SINGLES

Our next single today comes from Australian Tom Ugly, who wants to know “Who is the real villain?”  Check out his upbeat and funky “Villain” and watch for the music video to come soon.

Kris Angelis is one of our favorite artists from Los Angeles, and we have followed her career since the beginning.  Her latest single, “Stained Glass,” was released last Friday, and we think it is one of her best ever.  We can’t wait for her upcoming EP, and think you should definitely check her out.

Our final single this week is from one of the best blues singers in the country, Gina Sicilia.  Her eighth studio album will be out August 31, and we can’t wait.  In the meantime, enjoy “Heard the Lie.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from a vegan who has reached her limits.  Junk Wave premieres their spicy and audacious video “Dirty Fat Burger,” and we think you’ll be extra hungry for it.  This one comes courtesy of our friends at Red Boot PR.  Let us know what you think.

Our next video is from Ninja Sex Party and features Finn Wolfhard from the popular Netflix series Stranger Things.  Check out “Danny Don’t you Know,” which we absolutely love!  The new album will be out August 7.

Our third video is from the amazing Ivory Layne, whose new album just dropped.  We love her pop sound, and think you will likewise love “Committed.”

Our next video finds Kid Bloom at your “Parents House.”  Enjoy this pop-rock smash and stay tuned for more from this up and coming band.

Our final video today is from Dead Ceremony.  We featured the single version of “All This Noise” back in May and are happy to now share their lyric video.  Have a great week.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Paul Givant, Disconnected Genius, Travis Bowlin, Static and Surrender, Clare Means

We’re back with this week’s releases for our Friday Get it or Forget it reviews.  Check out these amazing projects.

Artist Name:  Paul Givant

Album Name:  Fashion District Adjacent

Label:  RPS Records

Genre:  Indie Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Fashion District Adjacent; 2.  Stuck on This Page; 3.  Little Star; 4.  Send in the Cavalry; 5.  It’s a Crazy Life; 6.  Sunset Over the Bosphorus; 7.  Sweet Angie; 8.  Solitary Dawn; 9.  Goldmine; 10.  Some Dark Passenger; 11.  Anastasia; 12.  Safe Journeys

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Paul Givant, the front man for the band Rose’s Pawn Shop, has released his debut solo album, and it is one of the best we have heard this year.  Mixing elements of Americana, folk, and country, he forges a dynamic new mix that is worlds apart from the music created by his band.  The lyrical imagery is simply amazing, and his choices of instrumentation and genre are out of this world.  Every song on this album is worthy of repeated plays, especially the incredible title track, “Stuck on This Page,” “Little Star,” the tender ballads “Send in the Cavalry,” “Sunset Over the Bosphorus,” “Sweet Angie,” and “Anastasia,” “Goldmine,” and “Safe Journeys.”

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – you simply must have this one, so Get it today!

Artist Name:  Disconnected Genius

Album Name:  Nirvikalpa Meow

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  About Nothing; 2.  It’s a Curse I’m a Saint; 3.  Vertruvian Men; 4.  Just Say Don’t Go; 5.  We’re all Watching Everything; 6.  Kings and Queens; 7.  One Fine Day; 8.  Quietly Into the Night; 9.  The Little Don; 10.  The Diamonds in the Poor; 11.  Arkane Bliss

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Disconnected Genius comes to us from Melbourne, Australia, and is a three-man, four-chord rock band with a definite mastery of those four chords.  They are a little weak in the vocal department, with an almost monotone delivery from front man Jamie O’Keefe at the beginning of the first two tracks.  Oddly enough, though, the musical accompaniment more than makes up for these shortcomings, and we think the band might find an easy cross-over between Australian and American audiences.  We think they would be good candidates for college radio airplay as well as possible placement opportunities.

Recommendation:  They are definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Travis Bowlin

Album Name:  Secundus

Label:  Moonbeam Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Strange Vibes; 2.  In the Worst Way; 3.  Dancin’ with the Devil; 4.  All Over Again; 5.  Don’t Lead me On; 6.  Vicksburg Blues; 7.  Go to Girl; 8.  You Know you Are; 9.  Casaurina Sand; 10.  I can let Go; 11.  Record Shop; 12.  Slow Cooker Man

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Travis Bowlin adds the perfect soul and rock vibe to his amazing blues, creating a distinct sound that is very reminiscent of Wilson Pickett on “Strange Vibes” and of early Led Zeppelin on “Dancin’ with the Devil,” “Don’t Lead me On” and “Record Shop.”  Then he blows our mind with the jazzy blues sound of “All Over Again” and “Go to Girl” and the traditional harmonica and blues guitar driven sound  of “Vicksburg Blues” and “Slow Cooker Man.”    Just when you think you’ve figured out his sound, out he comes with the modern blues sound of “Casaurina Sand.”    All of his songs definitely deserve serious radio airplay, and conjure up images of an impressive live show.   You can’t go wrong with this album, which you think you will immediately put on repeat, because it’s amazing from start to finish.

Recommendation:  This one is a definite must-have.  Get it!

Artist Name:  Static and Surrender

Album Name:  Static and Surrender

Label:  Funzalo Records

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  If Only we Could Sleep; 2.  You Won’t Remember Me; 3.  Just Because; 4.  Fall on the Blade; 5.  Mary Shelley; 6.  Slow Crash; 7.  The Very Long Night; 8.  Killing the Vibe; 9.  Not Another Dime

Publicist:  Independent Music Media

Review:  The combination of award-winning songwriter Jeff Campbell on lead vocals and guitar, Adam Schuman on guitar and backing vocals, his brother John on drums and Chili Corder on bass has created one of the most exciting indie rock bands we have heard this year.  If you want intelligent lyrics and a musical style that leaves bands like Train and Maroon 5 in the dust, then Static and Surrender is sure to be your new favorite band.  All nine tracks are killer and potential hits, especially “You Won’t Remember Me,” “Just Because,” their first single “Fall on the Blade,” “Slow Crash,” “The Very Long Night” and “Not Another Dime.”

Recommendation:  Don’t waste any more time – rush out and Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Clare Means

Album Name:  Sidewalk Astromony

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bobby; 2.  Danger; 3.  Fiery One; 4.  Master Manipulator Magnet; 5.  Sidewalk Astronomy; 6.  Guts; 7.  Sheepocrisy; 8.  Circles; 9.  Hollywood Zoo; 10.  Buried in Your Dreams; 11.  Always with Me

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Clare Means has been busking on the streets and piers of her native Los Angeles for quite a few years.  She has become somewhat of a DIY legend, especially with the advent of Periscope, where her live performances consistently draw 50,000 to 100,000 viewers.  Her latest offering, Sidewalk Astronomy, debuted today at #1 on the iTunes Singer-Songwriter charts, and that’s no fluke.  She even did the painting that forms the cover of the album.  It is impossible to truly put her sound into a box, as Clare Means is her own genre, truly unique from the myriad of singer-songwriters who have come through the City of Angels.  Her songs ring of the old adage “Three Chords and the Truth.”  We really love the strings on “Bobby,” “Fiery One,” “Guts,” and “Buried in Your Dreams,” and the amazing horns and truly unique sound of “Sheepocrisy.”   We are also in love with the radio ready tracks “Danger” and “Hollywood Zoo.”

Recommendation:  You should definitely jump on this bandwagon and support one of the best indie musicians in Los Angeles.

 

 

Categories
Reviews Theatre Women in Entertainment

You will never forget ‘The Book of Us’

Artwork by Alissa Wynne

Missoula has had a great arts community for many years, and with the arrival of the Cadmium Company, that legacy will surely continue.  The newly-formed theater group is composed of University of Montana students and alumni.  Their current production is The Book of Us, a new play by local playwright and University of Wisconsin-Madison PhD student Joshua Kelly.

The play is wonderfully directed by recent UM MFA graduate Natasha Conti, who we reviewed during her amazing performance in The Madwoman of Chaillot at the University’s Masquer Theatre.

The play is being performed in the basement of a private residence which has been configured into a black box theater very similar to the Masquer, with audience members watching from both sides.

”The opportunity to do a boutique house show – and to bring Kelly’s second full-length play to life – was one that couldn’t be passed up,” Conti said.  “The intimate nature of a show on location means the audience members are literally inches away from the actors. There’s no room for pretense, and that kind of theatre is fascinating.”

The play  examines the relationship between a young writer, his steadfast boyfriend, and his intermittent girlfriend.  Zachary French turns in a Tony-worthy performance as Xavier, the young writer, who must re-evaluate the nature of his relationships with Jacob, played by Thain Bertin, and Hadley, played by Brit Garner.  Jasmine Sherman portrays Jacob’s sister, Jennifer, in a supporting role.

The performances of the ensemble are equally breathtaking, but it is the riveting performance of French that is truly memorable.  Nevertheless, every cast member truly shines in their respective roles, and as a result, the audience will have a treasure trove of amazing  moments to look back on.

Annika Hanson composed the music and does an outstanding job of playing background guitar, adding the perfect musical backdrop for the play.  Stage Manager Aaron Turner was likewise outstanding in his technical support.

The play continues at 8 p.m. on July 13 and 14.  Tonight is sold out but there are still tickets available for Saturday.  Tickets are a suggested $5 donation at the door, and reservations are available by emailing cadmiumcompany@gmail.com.  The lobby opens at 7:30 p.m. and seating begins at 7:45 p .m.  There is no late seating.

Audience discretion is advised as the play contains adult themes, language, and nudity.   Seating is limited so audience members are encouraged to reserve seats early.  You don’t want to miss this play.

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

Get it or forget it – mmhmm, Russ Green, Sylvia, Jon Mullane, Catlow

Did you get your free slurpee yesterday for 7-11 Day?  Unfortunately, we don’t have any up here in Montana.  At any rate, here are five more reviews to cool you down on these hot summer days.

Artist Name:   mmhmm

Album Name:   mmhmm

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Americana/Pop

Track Listing:   1.  Let’s get Together; 2.  Aw Hell; 3.  Number Song; 4.  Up in Smoke (Don’t it Have to Wait); 5.  Earn my Love; 6.  Mama’s Little Yella Pills; 7.  Lookin’ Like a Tranny Blues; 8.  Coy Boy; 9.  Good Love; 10.  Blue Eyes; 11.  Take it on the Run; 12.  3 am and sake; 13.  So Hard to say Goodbye

Publicist:   Independent Music Media

Review: Finally, a band name that truly describes the group.  Mmhmm is just that – tasty in every way – visually stunning with a musical sound that makes your ears and your feet happy as well.  Composed of Raelyn Nelson and Hannah Fairlight, this indie duo is taking Nashville by storm, bringing a pop sensibility to their Americana vibe.  If they look familiar to you, that’s because Fairlight is also an amazing actress, with roles on A&E’s Crazy Hearts:  Nashville and the movie Pitch Perfect 3, while Nelson is the granddaughter of legendary country artist Willie Nelson.  These ladies definitely live up to the hype and deserve all the accolades.  They could very well be the new face of Americana.  We strongly advise music supervisors, radio station managers and the industry in general to open their eyes – these ladies are true stars in the making.  The icing on the cake is their spirited cover of The Eagles’ “Take it on the Run,” complete with kazoos and lots of ‘tude.

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

Artist Name:  Russ Green

Album Name:  City Soul

Label:  Cleopatra Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  First Thing Smokin; 2.  Believe in Love; 3.  The Edge; 4.  Goin Down South (ft Eric Bibb); 5.  Lover Man; 6.  Train of Pain; 7.  Up From the Bottom; 8.  Lint in my Pocket; 9.  Somethin New; 10.  Love to Give

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Russ Green epitomizes the term “Windy City Blues” with the 10 original tunes on his debut album.  He offers us everything we love about the blues – killer blues guitar, harmonica, great lyrics, an awesome voice and the feeling that only the blues provides.  Although the entire album is stellar, we really loved “Believe in Love,” “The Edge,” “Goin Down South” (with the amazing vocal addition of Eric Bibb), “Lover Man,” “Up From the Bottom,” “Lint in my Pocket” and “Somethin New.”

Recommendation:  This is a must-have for all lovers of the blues.  Get it now!

Artist Name:  Sylvia

Album Name:  Second Bloom:  The Hits Re-Imagined

Label:  Red Pony Records

Genre:  Country/A-C

Track Listing:  1.  Drifter; 2.  Nobody; 3.  Tumbleweed; 4.  Fallin’ in Love; 5.  Cry Just a Little Bit; 6.  Sweet Yesterday; 7.  Like Nothing Ever Happened; 8.  Snapshot; 9.  I Love you by Heart; 10.  You Can’t go Back Home

Publicist:  So Much MOORE Media

Review:  Country music in the 1980s was constantly changing but one name was consistent – Sylvia.  She accumulated 12 Top Ten hits, including two that made it to #1, won BMI Song of The Year with “Nobody,” was nominated for a Grammy and won the ACM Female Vocalist of the Year.  Not surprisingly, five of those hits were all written by the team of Kye Fleming and Dennis Morgan.  Oh yeah, and she sold over four million records.  Well, she’s back with new recordings of many of those huge hits, and we couldn’t be happier.  She wanted her songs to be more reflective of the A-C artist she is now, and we think she has hit the ball out of the park with these versions.  Put this one on and remember the good ole days.

Recommendation:  If you loved 1980s country, then you simply must have this one for a wonderful trip down memory lane.  Grab your copy soon.

Artist Name:  Jon Mullane

Album Name:  Singles

Label:  Forward Motion Music Group

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Freaks me Out; 2.  Desert Moon; 3.  Make You Move; 4.  The One That Got Away; 5.  Born Beautiful; 6.  My new American Girl; 7.  Change Your Life; 8.  Any Other Way; 9.  Go the Distance; 10.  Got it Goin’ On; 11.  Body Rock; 12.  One More Chance; 13.  Eternal Life

Publicist:  ACR Management

Review:  Canadian Jon Mullane has been doing things a little different from most indie artists.  Instead of creating albums, he releases his music primarily as singles, while also getting multiple placements in commercials, television, film and sporting events.  It is indeed a rare pleasure for him to release an album of these “singles,” so that we can find some of his best material all in one place.  The collection, which kicks off with his latest single, “Freaks me Out,” also includes the LA Music Critic Award winning song, “Born Beautiful.”  You cannot go wrong with this collection  There is not a weak song in this incredible collection, many of which you have heard before and didn’t even know it.

Recommendation:  If you only buy one CD this month, make it count and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Catlow

Album Name:  Main of Nowhere

Label:  File Under:  Music Records

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Scrapes; 2.  A Moment Passes By; 3.  My Sun (ft. David Beckingham); 4.  Settle Up; 5.  Main of Nowhere; 6.  Forget the Rest

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  Upbeat, great vocals and incredible musicianship are the words that best describe the latest offering from Vancouver-based band Catlow.  This is the perfect remedy for a hot summer day, and should be listened to on a daily basis.  This Canadian band has everything it needs to take on the American radio market, especially College Radio.  Their harmonies are sick, while the guitar and drum driven melodies make for an amazing aural adventure.  You will love all six tracks, and we are sure that you will play them over and over again.

Recommendation:  If you love music, then you must add this one to your library and put it on repeat!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Stone Stanley, Bella’s Bartok, Aterciopelados, Annee 2CU Blues Band, Michael Legere

We got an early birthday present yesterday.  Our blog doesn’t turn 3 until August 31, but we have already surpassed 70,000 views, as well as gotten more than 1,000 likes on our Facebook page.  Technically, though, we didn’t publish our first article until September 7, 2015.  Not too shabby for this little blog about indie music, theater and other arts.  Here are five more reviews for your consideration.

Artist Name:   Stone Stanley

Album Name:   Mudstomp Tapes

Label:   Iron Lady Records

Genre:   Americana/Delta Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Bitter End; 2.  Drop It; 3.  So Glad; 4.  Beast Inside; 5.  Cobble Hill; 6.  Iroquois Chant; 7.  Be With Me; 8.  Unfaithful Woman; 9.  Freedom Chant; 10.  My Shame; 11.  Soul Shine; 12.  Bottled

Publicist:   Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  We featured the video for “Bitter End” in our Ten Amazing Videos article last month, and the remainder of the album is just as amazing.  The band is led by Hesperia, California’s own Jason Robert, whose strong and sometimes raspy voice and dobro skills are perfectly suited for this style of blues, with a touch of Americana thrown in for good measure.  “Bitter End,” “Beast Inside,” “Cobble Hill,” “My Shame,” and “Soul Shine” are the best tracks.

Recommendation:  This one is a must have for all fans of the Delta Blues or Americana.  We think you will be putting it on repeat.

Artist Name:  Bella’s Bartok

Album Name:  Is Me That Monster?

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Carnival Vaudeville

Track Listing:  1.  End of the World Pt. I; 2.  Say No; 3.  Graveyard Funk No. 2; 4.  The Babadook; 5.  Bones; 6.  The Ballad of Lily & Billy Jack; 7.  Go Wilde; 8.  Mountain King; 9.  Life; 10.  End of the World Pt. II

Publicist:  PRIA Music Marketing

Review:  Bella’s Bartok plays a very unique style of music, kind of like a collaboration between Oingo Boingo/Danny Elfman and Tim Burton.  The music would be perfectly suited for placement in film and television, and we think this band would corner the market on their unique sound.  We are sure they must put on an amazing live show as well.  The music is fun and makes you think of being at the carnival or circus.  We would love to see them join with Weird Al – that would surely be a creative use of their respective talents.

Recommendation:  We guarantee you don’t have anything like this in your music library.  Get it and enjoy.

Artist Name:  Aterciopelados

Album Name:  Claroscura

Label:  Sony Music/Latin

Genre:  Latin

Track Listing:  1.  Play; 2.  Cuerpo; 3.  Tu Amor Es; 4.  Ay Ombe (Va,o a Relajar el pony); 5.  Tumbao; 6.  Sonemos en un Basque; 7.  Duo; 8.  Despierta Mujer; 9.  Piernas; 10.  Vieja; 11.  Show; 12.  He Venido a Perdirte Perdon

Publicist:  The Music Joint

Review:  Latin music doesn’t have to be understood to be enjoyed, although that does help.  For us English speaking music lovers though, the music is so upbeat and friendly that we can enjoy it without knowing the lyrics.  Such is the case with the latest from Aterciopelados, their first in nine years.  The music provides the perfect setting for a party, and we are sure that it could be put to good use as placements in television and film.  We love the happy vibe that comes forth from this music, which makes us want to grab some chips and guacamole and a cold cerveza and just party.

Recommendation:  If you love Latin music, you will enjoy this one.

Artist Name:  Annee 2CU Blues Band

Album Name:  A Wildfire out of Control

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing: 1.  Let me Roll It; 2.  Still the Same; 3.  Dark Cloud; 4.  Oh! Darling; 5.  Against the Wind; 6.  Bluest Blue

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  The band hails from Auckland, New Zealand, and is the first Kiwi artist to be reviewed on our blog.  The CD was recorded live at the Depot Sound Recording Studio.  All instruments (except saxophone) and vocals were recorded with all the players in the same room.  This creates the feeling of “being there” when you listen to their album.  We also love the band’s covers of the classic Bob Seger tunes “Still the Same” and “Against the Wind,” and the Beatles’ “Oh! Darling,” as well as their original traditional blues songs.  Welcome to America to this Kiwi blues bombshell.

Recommendation:   Get this one today.

Artist Name:  Michael Legere

Album Name:  Ourselves in Public

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Rebirth; 2.  The Buzz; 3.  The Sudden Downpour; 4.  Reputation; 5.  Yourself; 6.  Into the Day; 7.  Terrible Day; 8.  Curtains//Floating Heads

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Toronto-based multi-instrumentalist Michael Legere has given us a debut solo album with lots of food for thought.  The musical score is eerie, ethereal and different, while the lyrics contain vivid word pictures of how we interact with others.  These songs will require multiple listens to grab all the nuances of his lyrical content, but the music is so enthralling that you won’t mind hearing them repeated.

Recommendation:  Definitely check this one out.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Max Caddy, Dirk Vermin & the Hostile Talent, Alain Mallet, Mike Stapleton, Gary Brumburgh

Are you ready for some more great indie artists?  If you are, we have five new ones to check out in today’s Get it or Forget it.

Artist Name:  Max Caddy

Album Name:  Straight to the Face

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Acoustic Folk/Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Hear you Out; 2.  Show Yourself; 3.  Things we Said Today; 4.  Who you are to Me

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  We featured NYC-based duo Max Caddy’s single, “Hear You Out”  as part of our Ten Great Singles article in May.  Now they have released their four-song EP, and we could not be happier with the results.  This is their first recording in five years, and we are glad they broke their silence and gave us new material, as well as a beautiful stripped down cover of the Beatles’ “Things we Said Today.”  Jesse O’Neil and Corina Corina have brought their respective solo talents and created one of the best duos in music today.  They mix elements of blues, folk and Americana to form some dynamic songs that can function in a myriad of genres.

Recommendation:  These guys deserve a break – give them a try today.  You won’t regret that decision.

Artist Name:  Dirk Vermin & the Hostile Talent

Album Name:  Sweet Dreams (From the Gutter)

Label:  Squidhat Records

Genre:  Indie Punk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Sweet Dreams (From the Gutter); 2.  Danger City!; 3.  Destroy TV; 4.  Middle Finger; 5.  Hey Rockstar; 6.  Kill the Rat; 7.  It’s Time to Drink; 8.  Robots R Here; 9.  Riot on Sunset Strip; 10.  Freakshow Rodeo; 11.  Lipstick Smears & Bloodshot Eyes; 12.  Fistful-A-Hell

Publicist:  Squidhat Records

Review:  Dirk Vermin has been a Las Vegas staple for quite a few years, both as a tattoo artist and as a member of one of Las Vegas’ most notorious bands for the past 20 years.  On his debut solo album,  he has assembled a group of Vegas’ finest musicians to showcase his balls-to-the-wall rock and roll style, which has been compared to that of The Clash, AC/DC and Motorhead.  The comparison is not just hyperbole; Vermin lives up to it.  We must warn you though, this is definitely not family material.

Recommendation:  If you like your rock hot and full of vinegar, then you should definitely check this one out.

Artist Name:  Alain Mallet

Album Name:  Mutt Slang

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Till I Dance; 2.  Blessed be the Empty Soul; 3.  Road Signs; 4.  Alone; 5.  The Long Walk Home; 6.  Salif; 7.  Adama; 8.  Sprig; 9.  Elles; 10.  Batukada; 11.  This is When I Thinks About You; 12.  Cradle

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  With more than 25 years as a pianist and composer, Alain Mallett is no stranger to the jazz community.  Oddly enough, he has never recorded a CD, until now, and the wait was worth it.  His 12 compositions take up two discs, and will give  you hours of relaxing and refreshing jazz.  The songs have everything you associate with great jazz – amazing horns, stimulating drums, interesting keys and compositions that meander through time and space, leaving you feeling like you went on an aural journey with the maestro.

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, then you simply must add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  Mike Stapleton

Album Name:  Mid-Winter Blues

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Mid-winter Blues; 2.  Take my Breath Away; 3.  Drawn from a Dream; 4.  With Every Waking Hour; 5.  The Other Life; 6.  Two Dog Chase; 7.  New World; 8.  Stealing Pictures; 9.  Calm and Peaceful Mind; 10.  Village Idiot; 11.  Far and Few; 12.  Sail; 13.  Light on Ambition

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We have reviewed some stellar material from Bandcamp members lately, and this is one of the best to date.  Mike Stapleton has a strong and pure voice that fits perfectly with his simple guitar accompaniment.  His music would be a perfect fit for NPR, as his songs are memorable, and on point in this politically challenging time.  From the first notes of “Mid-Winter Blues” to the final notes of “Light on Ambition,” Stapleton brings you songs that challenge your ideas and opinions and give you plenty of food for thought.  Favorite cuts include “Take my Breath Away,” “Drawn From a Dream,” “The Other Life,” “Two Dog Chase,” “Village Idiot,” and “Far and Few.”

Recommendation:  Definitely give this one a go.

Artist Name:  Gary Brumburgh

Album Name:  Moonlight

Label:  Cafe Pacific Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Day Tripper; 2.  I’ll Close my Eyes; 3.  Dig/Sweet Georgia Brown; 4.  Wichita Lineman; 5.  Moonlight; 6.  Heavy Cloud no Rain; 7.  Eggplant; 8.  My World is Empty Without You; 9.  Just a Little Lovin’ (Early in the Mornin’); 10.  Haven’t we Met

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Gary Brumburgh is a gifted jazz vocalist who turns popular tunes of different genres into spectacular jazz standards.  He starts off with the Beatles’ “Day Tripper,” and goes up from there.  We love his take on the Harlem Globetrotters’ theme “Sweet Georgia Brown,” incorporating the lyrics which many of us have never heard.  He also does a very special jazz treatment for the Glen Campbell classic tune, “Wichita Lineman,” as well as the Supremes’ mega hit, “My World is Empty Without You.”  Other songs worth considering include Dusty Springfield’s “Just a Little Lovin’ (Early in the Mornin’)” and Frank Sinatra’s seminal “What’ll I Do.”

Recommendation:  Get it!

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 24

Hope you all survived your celebrating on the 4th and the ensuing weekend.  We’re glad to be back with you again this week for another edition of Monday Mashup.  Let’s see what’s new this week.

RECENT UM GRADUATE NATASHA CONTI DIRECTS PLAY

The newly-formed Cadmium Company, composed of University of Montana students and alumni, will present a new play by local playwright and University of Wisconsin-Madison PhD student Joshua Kelly, The Book of Us, to audiences this month.  It is directed by recent UM MFA graduate Natasha Conti, and will be performed at 8 p.m. on July 12, 13 and 14 at a private residence (disclosed upon ticket reservation).

Tickets are a suggested $5 donation at the door. Reservations are available by emailing cadmiumcompany@gmail.com.  Audience discretion is advised as the performance includes adult themes, language, and nudity.  Seating is limited so audience members are encouraged to reserve seats early.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week should get you up and ready for the new week.  Here’s Ethan Lumus and “Sex.”  As you can imagine, it is NSFW.

Next is the latest from Brooklyn-based dream pop singer Kirsten Knick aka Völuspa with the absolutely beautiful and ethereal “Feel You.”

Our third single this week comes from LA Music Critic Award winning Best International Artist Dom Fricot.  He has just released this third single from his amazing album Deserts, and we think you will enjoy “Time Flies.”

Our next single is a remix of Crayon‘s tune “After the Tone” by Duñe.  It has an upbeat soulful sound and we think you will really like it.

Our final single this week is “Malas Amistades” from internationally acclaimed vocalist Vanessa Zamora.  We love the vibe of this song, even if we don’t know what she’s saying.  Let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/cosmicaartists/vanessa-zamora-malas-amistades-single/s-v0C2k

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is a lyric video from Toronto duo The Darcys (ft. Leah Fay).  It is an upbeat tune that will have your toes tapping in no time at all.  Check out “Just Here With my Friends.”

Our next lyric video is from LA powerhouse duo Smoke Season, who are preparing to take the UK by storm.  Here is their awesome single, “Sweetest Thing.”

Our third video is from indie rockers Summerteeth.  It reminds us of the Gin Blossoms, and we think you will love “Stay Warm.”

Next is another lyric video, this time from one of our favorite male artists Stephen Michael Murphy.  Here is “Why,” and our response is “Why Not?”

Our final video this week is “Half Dreams” from futuristic pop band CROATIA.  We think this one is the perfect video to launch your week.  We’ll be back next week with more Monday Mashup.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Speedbuggy USA, Goosebump, All the Rage, Leo Spauls, The New Waves

Well, we made it to the weekend.  This week we’ve featured 15 albums from June and we close it out with five albums being released today.  Enjoy this eclectic group of indie artists.

Artist Name:   Speedbuggy USA

Album Name:   Kick out the Twang

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Americana/Roots/Blues

Track Listing:   1.  Take the Last Train to Clarksville; 2.  Get Around; 3.  Shaky Town; 4.  Hold my Head up High; 5.  South Bound; 6.  Sorry; 7.  Wood, Screws and Nails; 8.  Unchain my Heart; 9.  Long Gone; 10.  Honky Tonk Singer; 11.  Rodeo Star; 12.  The Devil With Me; 13.  Darlin I’m  Comin Home

Publicist:   KG Music Press

Review:  Speedbuggy USA is a confident indie band that mixes elements of country, Americana, rock and blues to form their own unique mix.  They are not afraid to cover anyone, as they demonstrate with their covers of The Monkees (“Last Train to Clarksville”) and Ray Charles/Joe Cocker (“Unchain my Heart”).  They also write amazing original tunes, including “Get Around,” “Hold my Head up High,” “South Bound,” “Rodeo Star,” “The Devil With Me,” and the rousing closing track, “Darlin I’m Comin Home.”  We think you will like their brand of music, and can only imagine how great they must be live.

Recommendation:  This one is a must-have.  Get it now!

Artist Name:  Goosebump

Album Name:  Goosebump by Goosebump

Label:  Pleasence Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Door in the Floor; 2.  We’re a Canadian Band; 3.  Piano Room; 4.  Heather’s Invitation; 5.  Don’t Have the Heart for the Hustle; 6.  Dream of Pines; 7.  Several Days Awake; 8.  Heart of her Life; 9.  She Don’t Say Goodbye

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  This Canadian band has a nice indie sound with retro undertones.  We would have loved to review the entire debut album.  Unfortunately, the links provided by the publicist only contained three of the nine tracks, while the link provided by the band only had two of those same three tracks.  Consequently, our evaluation is based on what is available, and we like what we hear.  The best of the three songs is “She Don’t Say Goodbye,” which is also the band’s first single.  We only wish we could have heard the rest.

Recommendation:  Based on what we could hear, they are worthy of the risk.  Check them out.

Artist Name:  All the Rage

Album Name:  Everything I Couldn’t Tell You

Label:  Squidhat Records

Genre:  Pop/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Intro; 2.  Hello!!!; 3.  I’m not a Hero; 4.  Color Blind; 5.  Ali; 6.  More Again; 7.  Burning Bright; 8.  Untouched; 9.  When it’s Over; 10.  Unrealistic; 11.  13 Rounds; 12.  Memory; 13.  Everything I Couldn’t Tell You

Publicist:  Squidhat Records

Review:  This is our first exposure to pop punk, and we kinda like it.  This Las Vegas based band has a unique take on punk music, and we are sure they must put on a hell of a show in Sin City and beyond.  This music is extremely energetic with excellent musicianship.  We think they would do well on the radio and should be considered for placement opportunities in television and film.  “Hello!!!” would make a great theme song, and should be part of your daily playlist.  This one is great from start to finish, and we will definitely be jamming to it for a while.

Recommendation:  This one is fun.  We recommend you Get it and add it to your musical collection.

Artist Name:  Leo Spauls ft. Mike Garson

Album Name:  Heaven’s Deep Blue Sky

Label:  Spauls Music

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Heaven’s Deep Blue Sky; 2.  One Day; 3.  Cry; 4.  Every Night and Day; 5.  The Sister’s Song; 6.  History

Publicist:  Guerilla Music Promotion

Review:  We included his video for the title track in last month’s Ten Amazing Videos column, and are happy to now bring you the rest of this amazing EP.  A Swedish musician who now lives in London, Leo Spauls has added the tremendous talent of David Bowie’s pianist Mike Garson to his sound, creating an even more powerful presence.  All six songs are wonderful, and will give you hours of enjoyment, even though my wife thinks they are lyrically depressing.

Recommendation:  This one is a hit.  Definitely Get it and play it over and over.

Artist Name:  The New Waves

Album Name:  Volume II

Label:  Squidhat Records

Genre:  Instrumental Covers

Track Listing:  1.  I Ran (so far away); 2.  The Metro; 3.  Send me an Angel; 4.  Voices Carry; 5.  Take on Me; 6.  I Melt with You; 7.  White Wedding (Part I); 8.  Hungry Like the Wolf; 9.  Turning Japanese; 10.  Don’t Change; 11.  Just What I Needed; 12.  New Year’s Day; 13.  Whip It

Publicist:  Squidhat Records

Review:  Who doesn’t like 80s songs, especially when they’re being lovingly played by surf rock legends like The New Waves?  Even without the lyrics, most of us remember these songs and the feelings they generated when they were all over the radio.  It’s as if we get to hear them all over again with new ears, as they sound different yet the same.  These songs would make great placements for commercials, film and television, as well as replace the sleepy elevator music we so often have to endure.  Hat’s off to The New Waves – you have created a true niche.

Recommendation:  If you love the 80s and surf rock, you will love this combination.  Go out and Get it.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Spurv, Alex Riddle, Deb Ryder, Paul McDonald, Nils Frahm

We hope you all had a wonderful Independence Day.  We hiked the Rattlesnake, and just relaxed.  It was a beautiful day, and we are so thankful we have such great music to return to.  Here are our next five artists for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Spurv

Album Name:  Myra

Label:  Fysisk Format

Genre:  Instrumental Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Et Løfte I Fall; 2.  Og Ny Skag Bæres Frem; 3.  Fra Dypet Under Stenen; 4.  Hviler Bekkenes Sang; 5.  Et Blekt Lys Lyder; 6.  Fra Myrtemplet; 7.  Den Gamles Stemme Brister; 8.  Alting Får Sin Ende, Også Natten

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  Norway continues to rock our world with the latest from Spurv.  This amazing collection of cinematic and sweeping rock instrumentals will color your world with sound.  Music has no language barrier, and these well-crafted songs will fill your ears with the beauty of rock music done right.  The melodies create a sweeping visual and are ripe for placement opportunities in film and television.  This one belongs on repeat because it will take numerous listens to hear all the nuances of the guitars and drums that are contained in these songs.

Recommendation:  You must Get this one – it will provide hours of inspiration.

Artist Name:  Alex Riddle

Album Name:  Snow White

Label: Breakaway Records

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Snow White; 2.  Hosting Ghosts; 3.  The Sway; 4.  Miriam (live); 5.  Scout (live); 6.  Truth Fairy (live)

Publicist:  Far Digital PR

Review:  Houston, Texas based singer-songwriter Alex Riddle has amazing vocals which soar in and out of falsetto as he shares the lyrics of these well-crafted tunes.  The mixture of studio and live recordings sets this artist apart from his peers, and gives both an example of what he can do in the studio as well as a taste of what his live performances are like.  His opening number, which is the title track, soars high and is getting a lot of attention from both the public and critics alike.  We think this young man has a lot to offer and look forward to many more amazing albums from him in the future.

Recommendation:  You should definitely Get this one and add it to your favorites.

Artist Name:  Deb Ryder

Album Name:  Enjoy the Ride

Label:  VizzTone

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  A Storm’s Comming; 2.  Temporary Insanity; 3.  Bring the Walls Down; 4.  Nothin to Lose; 5.  For the Last Time; 6.  What You Want From Me; 7.  Enjoy the Ride; 8.  Got to let it Go; 9.  Life Fast Forward; 10.  Sweet Sweet Love; 11.  Goodbye Baby; 12.  Forever Yours; 13.  Red Line

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  Deb Ryder is riding the blues charts with her hard-hitting blues guitar and a sound very reminiscent of Bonnie Raitt.  Her strong and gritty voice is the perfect complement to her intricate and exciting blues guitar, and her songs will leave a lasting impression on your  senses.  We plead “Temporary Insanity” because we love her “Nothin to Lose” style which truly “Brings the Walls Down.”  We have nothing but “Sweet Sweet Love” for Ryder’s music, and we are truly “Forever Yours.”  As we say “Goodbye Baby,” we strongly encourage you to “Enjoy the Ride.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – you simply MUST Get this one!

Artist Name:  Paul McDonald

Album Name:  Modern Hearts

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-Songwriter Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  New Lovers; 2.  Hold On; 3.  Wildcard; 4.  Call on Me; 5.  Modern Hearts; 6.  How Long?; 7.  So Much Better; 8.  Once You Were Mine; 9.  Tell me Something; 10.  Come On; 11.  Caging a Songbird; 12.  Stay Home; 13.  Always on my Mind; 14.  I Ain’t Good

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  Paul McDonald has a very unique voice that is reminiscent of Bob Dylan, with a very strong pop/rock vibe.  They soar on the wings of the incredible band he has assembled for the project, and never let you down.  These songs belong on the radio, and would do quite well in a Top 40 format.    We hear potential hits in many of these songs, especially “Hold On,” “Wildcard,” “Call on Me,” “How Long?,” “Once you Were Mine” (which reminds us of some of the best Van Morrison hits), and “I Ain’t Good.”

Recommendation:  You simply need this one in your library.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  Nils Frahm

Album Name:  Encores 1

Label:  Erased Tapes Records

Genre:  Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  The Roughest Trade; 2.  Ringing; 3.  To Thomas; 4.  The Dane; 5.  Harmonium in the Well

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society Communications

Review:  Acoustic, soothing, harmonious, uplifting – these words and more describe the music of Nils Frahm on his latest outing.  You can almost feel the tension in  your body float away as you sit back and relax to these soothing sounds.  The piano is just perfect for this type of meditative media, and we think that every chiropractor and massage therapist should have this album in their catalog.  Make sure you give yourself enough time to fully wake up after listening, because we are sure you will want to stay in a blissful state for quite a while,

Recommendation:  If  you love instrumental music, and music for relaxation, then this is the perfect addition to your library.  But beware, large doses will encourage a long nap.