Month: August 2018

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Magnet and the Magnettes, Squid Cult, Tyrone Barkley, Festive People, Brad Wenzel

Time again for our Friday edition of Get it or Forget it.  It’s been a great week of music, and we hope you’re liking what we’re reviewing.  Please leave a comment and let us know how we’re doing.  Here we go with five more artists for you to check out.

Artist Name:  Magnet and the Magnettes

Album Name:  Where the Wind Blows

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  To the Water; 2.  Lay me Down; 3.  I am not a Mountain; 4.  Best Laid Plans; 5.  Where the Wind Blows

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The band has a solid sound, with solid musicianship, great vocals and well-crafted songs that have something to say.  These songs are radio friendly and worthy of airplay, as they sound better than most of the music heard on today’s radio stations.  Our neighbors to the north have birthed a sound that should find a good home here in the States, and we strongly encourage radio station managers, especially college, to add this one to their rotation.

Recommendation:  Definitely get it.

Artist Name:  Squid Cult

Album Name:  All Boys Leave Home Someday

Label:  Septarian Records

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Willie; 2.  Rattlesnake; 3.  Paranoia; 4.  Everybody Knows; 5.  Baby Blue; 6.  Angelpuke; 7.  Scenes from Subspace; 8.  Hellish; 9.  The Urinal; 10.  Red Bamboo; 11.  Last Man

Publicist:  Magic Tree Productions

Review:  Squid Cult is not your typical rock band.  They mix elements of jazz, punk, and ska into their rock mix, creating a sound that is truly unique and their own.  They blast us with this uniqueness on the first track and never look back, as each song takes us higher and deeper into their psyche.  The vocals are fun and well delivered while the multi-layered instrumentation will have you wondering just what you’re listening to, but loving every minute of it regardless.  “Rattlesnake” was a good choice for first single, as its energy and drive will draw in new fans and hold on to those that already love the band.  Other impressive tracks include “Baby Blue, “Angelpuke,” “Hellish,” and “Red Bamboo.”

Recommendation:  This one truly belongs in your collection.  Get it.

Artist Name:  Tyrone Barkley

Album Name:  Bend Me, Shape Me

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Bend Me, Shape Me; 2.  Don’t Take Your Love Away; 3.  For What I Am; 4.  Man of Value; 5.  Some Kind of Wonderful

Publicist:  Essential Media Group

Review:  Tyrone Barkley was a member of the 70s soul group The Undisputed Truth.  This EP contains previously unreleased solo tracks he worked on with Larry Weiss (“Rhinestone Cowboy”), and bring back memories of childhood, much like Mavis Staples and Ural Thomas did at last weekend’s Travelers Rest Music Festival.  This is truly a “blast from the past,” and we love every one of these tracks.  This is the way music used to be made, and we can never get enough of this sound.  Every song is a winner, and shows that great music never dies.

Recommendation:  This one is a must have if  you love soul music from the 70s.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  Festive People

Album Name:  In the Black

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Retro Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Boxcar; 2.  Spin my Eyes; 3.  Behave; 4.  Lover, not a Friend; 5.  Mesmerized; 6.  Hostage; 7.  Live On; 8.  Pumice; 9.  Wooden Cage; 10.  In the Black

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  The music of the 70s and 80s was strong, based on great lyrics, a fun, upbeat style, and lots of synthesizers.  Festive People have captured that sound and made it relevant to the modern age, and we couldn’t be happier.  These songs are masterpieces, and belong on the radio, especially college.  They would also work well in period pieces on television and film.  This debut album is a work of art, and sets the bar high for what comes next.  You can hear so many of your favorite childhood artists in these songs, like the Beatles, Elton John, ELO, Howard Jones and more.  Favorite tracks include “Boxcar,” “Spin my Eyes,” “Lover, not a Friend,” “Mesmerized,” “Hostage,” “Live On,” “Pumice,” and “Wooden Cage.”

Recommendation:  Don’t hesitate.  Get this one now.

Artist Name:  Brad Wenzel

Album Name:  Sweet Nothings

Label:  Third Man Records

Genre:  Stand-up Comedy

Track Listing:  1.  Easin’ In; 2.  Secret Purpose; 3.  Something Inspirational; 4.  Addressing the Smell; 5.  This is.  The Centaur; 6.  Calling Bob; 7.  Less Interesting Facts; 8.  Sinister Looking Peanut; 9.  Baffled Tombstone; 10.  Tackling the Issues; 11.  Razor Sharp Crowd Work; 12.  I’m From Michigan; 13.  Professional Wrestling; 14.  Nitpicking; 15.  Pretty American; 16.  Really Laying into Rude People; 17.  Big Hollywood Ideas; 17.  Winding it Down

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  If you like comedy, then you will love Brad Wenzel.  His comedy is off beat and based on truly common and everyday experiences.  His wit is sharp and he engages well with his audience, and he delivers hilarious one-liners over and over again.  It is no wonder he has made two appearances on Conan, as well as first place at The Cleveland Comedy Festival.

Recommendation:  Get this one if you love to laugh.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Stringer, Trevor James, FINE POINTS, Jane in Space, Code Red Riot

Had a blast yesterday checking out LA Music Critic Award nominee Stacy Jones Band at Missoula’s weekly “Out to Lunch” series.  She put on an amazing show with her four piece band, bringing the smooth sound of her harmonica to their southern rock and blues mix.

Today we’re back with five more reviews from some incredibly rocking bands.  Please let us know what you think.

Artist Name:  Stringer

Album Name:  My Bad

Label:  Wiretap Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Intro; 2.  USA; 3.  Ghosts; 4.  Through the Walls; 5.  Rachel; 6.  Swimming; 7.  Dead Horse; 8.  Abergain; 9.  Flower Bomb; 10.  Termites; 11.  Halving; 12.  Miss Slovenia; 13.  InFinFly

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Stringer has been a staple in the underground DIY music scene in Brooklyn for many years.  With the release of My Bad, they show the rest of the world why they have become so beloved in New York City.  Their first single, “Ghosts,” reminds us of The Beastie Boys, and has the potential to be a break out song, especially with the release of their music video.  “Through the Walls” is very radio friendly and more indie rock than punk, and deserves heavy rotation, especially on college stations, as does “Swimming.”  Other tracks deserving of attention are “Dead Horse,” “Flower Bomb,” “Termites,” “Halving” and “InFinFly.”

Recommendation:  You really should Get this one.

Artist Name:  Trevor James

Album Name:  Maxine

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  R&B/Funk/Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Maxine; 2.  Sorry; 3.  Touch the Sky; 4.  Assassin; 5.  Cool Breeze; 6.  Creepin; 7.  Street Walker; 8.  Crazy; 9.  Locked Out; 10.  I’m Gone

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Trevor James has hit the scene, sounding like a mix of Jimi Hendrix and Lenny Kravitz, but with his own kind of attitude that sets his music apart from them.  The title track kicks ass, and sets the tone for the amazing stuff that follows.  On “Sorry,” he adds a jazzy vibe that makes this song pop, making it a great candidate for radio.  His inner Hendrix kicks in on “Assassin” and “Street Walker,” where he demonstrates his extreme virtuosity on the guitar.  He returns to the mellow sound on “Cool Breeze,” which would also sound great on the radio, while “Creepin” and “I’m Gone” are just plain cool R&B/Funk.

Recommendation:  You can’t go wrong with this one.  Add it to your collection today.

Artist Name:  FINE POINTS

Album Name:  Take Shape

Label:  Dine Alone Records

Genre:  Indie Pop

Track Listing:  1.  The Fang; 2.  Water Run; 3.  Ready and Able; 4.  Technicolor Dreams; 5.  It’s What I Know; 6.  Wandering; 7.  Pharaoh; 8.  Sanctuary; 9.  One by One; 10.  Bell Below; 11.  I’m not the One

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  San Francisco-based FINE POINTS are a band on their way.  They secured the services of Grammy winning producer Jason Carmer, who has previously worked with Third Eye Blind, Billy Idol and Merle Haggard, and he has helped them create a masterpiece that stretches from start to finish, and especially on their singles, “The Fang” and “Ready and Able.”  Other tracks worthy of attention include “Technicolor Dreams,” “It’s What I Know,” “Wandering,” “Pharaoh,” “One by One,” “Bell Below,” and “I’m not the One.”

Recommendation:  Get it!

Artist Name:  Jane in Space

Album Name:  Gorerunner

Label:  Aion Records

Genre:  Industrial/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  Little Raurus; 2.  Eat Your Face; 3.  Full Stop; 4.  Breaking Glass; 5.  Gorerunner; 6.  Through the Vines

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Jane in Space is another band from Brooklyn that has been compared to Nine Inch Nails and Depeche Mode.  For this album, they tapped Keith Hillebrandt, who has worked with Nails, to produce the album, and we think he has delivered a stellar album that fans of those bands will also enjoy.  The band hits the ground running on the first track, and never slows down as they deliver music that melts faces.  is in your face.  Our only complaint is that there are only six songs.  We can’t wait to see what comes next.

Recommendation:  If you are a fan of Nine Inch Nails or Depeche Mode, you should definitely add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  Code Red Riot

Album Name:  Mask

Label:  Sony RED Music

Genre:  Metal/Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Panic and Pain; 2.  Killing the Kings; 3.  Living Low; 4.  Slide; 5.  Chaos Calls; 6.  Ghost; 7.  Fuel in the Fire; 8.  Bulletproof; 9.  Black Hole Hero; 10.  Handle This; 11.  7 More Days; 12.  My Failing Soul

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  Former Otherwise drummer and now Code Red Riot frontman, Corky Gainsford, draws his inspiration from legends like Dave Grohl (Foo Fighters), Sully Erna (Godsmack) and Blake Allison (Devour The Day).  Currently on tour with Gemini System, Mask is the band’s debut album, and it’s an incredible start to their career.  The band has set the bar very high, and delivers a masterful set of dynamic and hard-hitting songs that not just metal fans will enjoy.  This one is a treat from start to finish, and a worthy addition to your musical collection.

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Rachael Sage, Reloaded Norway, Jamie Shew, Tammie Shannon, Shaunt Avakian

It’s Wednesday again, and our first day off since last Tuesday.  We are also excited because Stacy Jones, the LA Music Critic Award nominee for Best Blues Artist last year, is playing a show in our very own Caras Park today.  To celebrate, we have five more amazing artists for you to check out.  Let’s get going.

Artist Name:  Rachael Sage

Album Name:  Myopia

Label:  MPress Records

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Alive; 2.  Spark; 3.  No One is to Blame; 4.  Olivia; 5.  Myopia; 6.  Sympathy Seed; 7.  Daylight; 8.  Maybe She’ll Have Cats; 9.  Haunted by Objects; 10.  This Darkness; 11.  Umru Mayne; 12.  Snowed In; 13.  Tomorrow; 14.  Sistersong 2018

Publicist:  MPress Records

Review:  Rachel Sage has been a force in the indie music community for the past 20 years, creating her own record label and taking her music to the masses.  She recently completed a tour with 80s icon Howard Jones, whose song “No One is to Blame” she covers on this album, giving it her signature warmth and style.  We have followed her music for many years, and believe that Myopia contains the best music she has ever released.  From the opening notes of “Alive,” she sets the tone for the album, which is the true empowerment of women.  Although primarily known as a keyboardist, she relies more on guitar based melodies this time around, and proves she is just as adept at that instrument as she is her keys.  These songs are light and airy (for the most part) and perfect for summer, and deserve heavy rotation on radio and further placement opportunities in television and film.  We love the entire album, but our favorites are “Alive,” “Spark,” “Olivia,” “Myopia,” “Daylight,” the totally different “Haunted by Objects” and “This Darkness,” the rocking “Umru Mayne,” and the incredible “Tomorrow,” which gives us promise that this amazing artist will be back with more great music in the future. She closes the album with a new version of her 20 year old feminist anthem “Sistersong.”  Now that’s talent and endurance!

Recommendation:  You simply MUST Get this one!

Artist Name:  Reloaded Norway

Album Name:  My Longest Mile

Label:  Bluestown Records

Genre:  Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bigger Balls; 2.  Saturday Night Diva; 3.  My Longest Mile; 4.  Devil’s Kiss; 5.  Up Yours; 6.  Majority’s Mask; 7.  Listen Now; 8.  Definitely Maybe Baby; 9.  Born Without Rhythm; 10.  I Pray for You

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  Just one listen to this band and you will be hooked.  Norway has given us a rocking blues sound which features the amazing vocals and songwriting of Heidi Kvalholm Blåsmo, with Øyvind Vassli Hansen on guitar, Tony Caddle on bass, Jarle Børresen on keys/Hammond and Lars Ove Fjelldahl on drums/percussion.  Their blues vibe is universal, and should propel them onto the worldwide stage, as their music is desperately needed here in America.  This is a band you would love to spend the night listening to, as their rocking blues sound envelopes you and gets you in the mood for just about anything.  The vocals are second to none and reminiscent of the powerful chops of artists like Beth Hart and Tina Turner.  You can’t go wrong with this one, as every song is powerful and worthy of multiple listens.

Recommendation:  Go out today and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Jamie Shew

Album Name:  Eyes Wide Open

Label:  Blujazz

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Get out of my Head; 2.  Easy to Love; 3.  The Flat Foot Floogie; 4.  The Answers are You; 5.  Detour Ahead; 6.  Thou Swell; 7.  Mountain Greenery; 8.  Easy Living; 9.  You Don’t Know What Love Is; 10. First Song (for Ruth); 11.  O Cantador; 12.  Reflections; 13.  Eyes Wide Open

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  There is nothing like being at a live jazz show because the musicians are famous for ad libbing their songs with incredible instrumentals.  Eyes Wide Open captures that experience with an amazing collection of songs that every true jazz lover craves.  Interestingly, the songs are not just well written and perfectly performed, but also tell the story of Jamie Shew’s 20 year relationship with her late husband.  She finds the joy in those memories, and translates them into what could very well become jazz standards for a future generation.

Recommendation:  If you love traditional jazz, complete with amazing vocals and incredible musicianship, then you simply must add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  Tammie Shannon

Album Name:  All of Me

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Pop/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  I Got Rhythm; 2.  Bulletproof; 3.  Breakable; 4.  Collide; 5.  Bitch; 6.  Cumin with You; 7.  No More Tears; 8.  I’m on That; 9.  Father Time; 10. Made up Mind; 11.  Fool for You; 12.  I Believe; 13.  Whatever you Want; 14.  Won’t let me Down

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  Damn!  Tammie Shannon delivers a stellar debut album that should establish her as the Gretchen Wilson of the blues world.  These songs are powerful, especially “Bulletproof,” which talks about surviving abuse.  Shannon bares her soul on this album, leaving nothing hidden, and released the album on Mother’s Day in remembrance of her late mother.  “I Got Rhythm” is a true blues rocker, while “Breakable” is a pop ballad that will bring tears to your eyes.  “Collide” is a jazzy blues tune that will have your toes tapping in no time at all.  We really love the beautiful gospel songs “Father Time” and “I Believe,”  which will uplift your spirit and give you hope.  She adds a little R&B to her blues vibe on “Made up Mind” before returning to a rocking sound on “Fool for You.”  The final two songs will make you want to start the whole album over again.

Recommendation:  This one is a keeper, and Shannon will soon be a household name.  Get it before everyone knows about her.

Artist Name:  Shaunt Avakian

Album Name:  Intensity

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-Songwriter Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Are you Here?; 2.  Hard to Focus; 3.  One in a Million; 4.  Love to Love You; 5.  The Runaway; 6.  Rats in the Attic

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The album is aptly named, as this collection of six songs are jam-packed with intensity.  Shaunt Avakian is a gifted young singer-songwriter that has a lot to say, and a powerful way to share them.  He hits the ground running with “Are you Here?” and doesn’t let up.  His debut album shows his punk and UK rock influences, and establishes him as a force to be reckoned with.  Best tracks include the rockers “Are you Here?” and “One in a Million” and the softer “Love to Love You” and “The Runaway,” although every track is solid.

Recommendation:  This young man is definitely going places.  Be among the first to discover his immense talent, and take his amazing EP home today!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Castle Black, Fellow Robot, Sean Paul, Katie Herzig, No Dry County

Hope your Monday was enjoyable.  It’s now time for our first Get it or Forget it of the week, and we have five very interesting artists for you to check out.

Artist Name:  Castle Black

Album Name:  the gods that adored you

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Punk/Grunge

Track Listing:  1.  Man on a Train; 2.  River; 3.  Sierra; 4.  A Cigarette, Saved; 5.  Linen

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Last year we reviewed their previous EP, Trapped Under All You Know, and they’re back with their fourth EP, the gods that adored you.  This band just continues to get better and better.  One thing we really love about them, besides their amazing post-punk grunge/ indie rock sound is the lead female vocals, which truly sets them apart from so many of their peers.  All five songs this time around are amazing, and we can’t get enough of any of them, especially “Linen.”  As we said last year, “Hop on the bandwagon now cause this band is going places.”  We stand by that analysis.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get it.

Artist Name:  Fellow Robot

Album Name:  The Robot’s Guide to Music Vol. 1

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock/Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Tools of War; 2.  The Narcissist; 3.  Wedding Dress; 4.  Garden of the Lord; 5.  Clone Baby; 6.  I’m With You; 7.  Dime in my Pocket; 8.  Son of Fire; 9.  Better Days; 10.  Become the Sky; 11.  Fatherless Children

Publicist:  Far Digital PR

Review:  Fellow Robot has a unique but familiar style, reminiscent of the music of The Decemberists.  The music is simple yet majestic, and builds mightily as each song progresses towards climax.  This is a band you want to have as your everyday chill, and we don’t think you will ever tire of their sound.  They definitely have the potential for great things, and they are setting the bar high with this dynamic debut album.  We highly recommend you simply put this one on repeat.  You will want to hear them over and over.

Recommendation:  Get this one now.  They will be blowing up the charts in no time flat!

Artist Name:  Sean Paul

Album Name:  Mad Love – The Prequel

Label:  Dutty Hall Productions

Genre:  Pop/Dancehall/Reggae

Track Listing:  1.  Naked Truth (ft. Jhene Aiko) EXPLICIT; 2.  Bad Love (ft. Ellie Golding); 3.  Mad Love (ft. David Guetta, Becky G); 4.  Jump on It; 5.  Tip Pon It (ft. Major Lazer); 6.  Jet Plane Trip (ft. Steffen Don); 7.  Body (ft. Migos) EXPLICIT; 8.  Tek Weh Guh Heart (ft. Tory Lanez; 9.  No Lie (ft. Dua Lipa)

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  We doubt that there is anyone who hasn’t heard of Sean Paul.  On this amazing album, he has dubbed some of the hottest stars in the pop word and added his signature reggae vibe to songs that are guaranteed to get you up and onto the dance floor.  You can’t listen to these songs and not want to dance.  They are hot hot hot, and we are so proud to be able to share them with you.  Take your pick of these songs – you can’t go wrong with any of them.  Our favorites include “Bad Love,” Mad Love,” “Jump on It,” “Jet Plane Trip,” and “No Lie.”

Recommendation:  Get it before you can’t find it anymore.  This one is guaranteed to melt your turntable.

Artist Name:  Katie Herzig

Album Name:  Delicate

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Beat of Your Heart; 2.  Feel Alive (ft. Ingrid Michaelson); 3.  Lost and Found (ft. Sleeping at Last); 4.  Strangers; 5.  The Wilheim Scream; 6.  Wish you Well (ft. Brandi Carlille)

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  It’s only been a few months since we reviewed her last EP, Moment of Bliss, and we are thrilled that she has returned with her latest, Delicate.  She made us wait four years for Moment of Bliss, and we’re so glad that we didn’t have to wait that long for her latest blissful creation.  This time around, she has five of her originals, several of which were previously recorded, as well as an amazing cover of the James Blake song “The Wilheim Scream.”   She has also drafted several of the artists that she has opened for to sing on the EP, including Brandi Carlille and Ingrid Michaelson, and is currently on her own headlining tour,  It is no wonder that Herzig continues to get placements on hit television shows, including 10 songs on Grey’s Anatomy.  She was also recently nominated for an Emmy for her song “Morse Code,” which was written for Netflix’s The Mr. Peabody and Sherman Show.  Everyone of these songs is incredible and a testament to the powerful songwriting force that Herzig has become.

Recommendation:  This lady is a future superstar.  Get this one ASAP!

Artist Name:  No Dry County

Album Name:  Panhandle Music

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Tucumcari; 2.  Get Away; 3.  Elvis Gun Runner; 4.  Bittersweet; 5.  SS 14; 6.  Manic and Mundane; 7.  Mountain of Clouds; 8.  On our Own; 9.  Sheep in Wolves Clothes; 10.  When you Came Around; 11.  15 Piece Band; 12.  Sway; 13.  Hey Thunder

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Combining Americana, alt country and rock is pure genius, and truly sets apart the sound of No Dry County.  The vocals are crystal clear, the lyrics are ingenious and well written, and the musical score is unlike anything else.  This band has so much potential for placement opportunities and serious radio airplay.  This one is a winner from start to finish, and we will be putting it on repeat for the foreseeable future.  Our favorites include “Get Away,” “Bittersweet,” “Mountain of Clouds,” “Sheep in Wolves Clothes,” “15 Piece Band,” and “Hey Thunder.”

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

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 28

What a wonderful weekend.  Spent it working the backstage gate at The Decemberists’ Travelers Rest Festival in Missoula.  Over the course of the weekend, I heard a lot of amazing music and made some great new connections, including three members of The Decemberists (Chris Funk, Nate Query and Jenny Conlee) and Colin Meloy’s mom), I’m With Her and their lovely families, indie bands Lenore, Matt the Electrician, Tune-Yards, Cardioid, Ural Thomas & the Pain and Whitney, NPR darling Gaelynn Lea, and fellow Virginian Lucy Dacus.  A full review will be coming soon, so stand by for another busy week of articles.  In the meantime, here are five new singles and five new music videos to get your week off to a good start.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from the creative minds of two amazing songwriters, Vic Fuentes of Pierce the Veil and Curtis Peoples, as recorded by Peoples.  Here’s one of our new favorite songs, “Castaways.”

Next up is the latest from Sheridan Reed.  We love the groove of “We Should Both be Here,” and are sure you will too.  Enjoy this tune.

https://soundcloud.com/sheridanreed/we-should-both-be-here

Our third single this week is from Americana/roots band HONEY RIVER, and we think this one is a potential mega-hit.  Check out “Peace, Love.”

Our next single is from Dutch band Money & The Man.  It has a harder alternative rock edge and should help shake up your Monday.  Here’s “This Season.”

Our final single today will get you body on the dance floor.  Let’s give it up for “When I Ask You Why,” the latest from dance pop artist and producer Fish Fox.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week comes from the granddaughter of Willie Nelson.  She is also a member of the amazing country band mmhmm, which we recently reviewed.  Here is “Mama Cry” from her other band, the Raelyn Nelson Band.

Next up is the latest from Korean-American artist Tiffany Young, who has already accumulated more than 1 million hits on a video that was just released five days ago.  Check out “Over my Skin.”

Our third video is a blast from the past.  The Guess Who were huge back in the early 70s, and they’re back sounding like they never left.  Check out their latest video “Playing on the Radio.”

Next up is “Night After Night” from Rare Americans.  It is a punky indie rock tune which will help propel you into the new week.

We close out the week with the amazing voice of GABI.  This tender ballad will soothe all your troubles away.  Enjoy “Whole With You.”

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Reviews

Ten great singles released in July 2018

We are so inspired after spending yesterday working with the amazing artists at The Decemberists’ Travelers Rest Festival in Missoula, Montana.  We discovered some amazing talent we had not previously known about, like indie band Lenore and indie artists Waxahatchee and Matt the Electrician.

Here are ten great singles we didn’t have room to share this month in our Monday Mashup article.  We hope they inspire you as they have inspired us.

The first single comes from an artist who has been featured several times before, and continues to impress us.  Here’s “Keep On” by the amazing guitarist Jackie Venson.

Next up is a pair of singles from Glasgow-based disco duo Free Love (formerly Happy Meals).  The featured single is “Pushing too Hard,” which we really love, as well as a bonus track “July.”  Check out their vibe.

Our third single is from a band we featured in June.  “Liars and Thieves” is the latest from Becoming Bristol, and it confirms our belief in the future of the band.  Let us know what you think.

Our fourth single is “Chapel of Pines” from the forthcoming new album by Waxahatchee, who we fell in love with after her powerful performance at yesterday’s Festival.  We think she will have your devotion too after you hear this song.

Next up is “Speaking Fire,” a powerful new song from Samsaruh.  We think this one will power you into the next week.  Enjoy!

We start our second five singles with the title track from the new EP by Dead Ceremony.  Check out “Heartache.”

Our seventh single is from R&B/Soul artist Conrad the Third.  Chill out to the amazing sound of “Get you Alone.”

Single number eight is a throw-back to the tender ballads of the 70’s.  Check out “Lazy Love” from debut artist Johnny Payne.

Next up is the debut single from the new album by Here are the Lions.  Check out “Unsatisfied.”  We love the upbeat and the potential for radio airplay for this group.

Our final single today comes from Matthew Perryman Jones, and we simply love it.  We’ll close for this edition with “Anything Goes.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten amazing videos released in July 2018 (Amended)

*OOPS – Looks like we jumped the gun on one of our videos, as “Dancer Girl” by Tangie Town has not yet been released, and they have asked us to take down the video.  In its place, we are substituting the latest, “Synesthesia,” from Polychrome.  It is a beautiful video by this dream-gaze duo, and we think you will love it.

It’s been a great month for videos, and we featured 20 already in our Monday Mashup.  Here are another 10 amazing ones that were released in the month of July.

Our first video has received praise from NPR.  Here’s Jessica Risker with her intriguing video for her song “Zero Summer Mind.”

Our second video tell us “It’s Alright to Be Me.”  Thank you S U M for this empowering video.

Our third video comes from the brother duo Tangie Town.  It is a chill pop upbeat song that will get you moving on this beautiful Saturday.  Enjoy “Dancer Girl.”

VIDEO REMOVED AT ARTISTS’ REQUEST

Our next video is from the transgender group DreamStates, who ask us what’s “Normal” any way?

Halfway through our video selections, here’s multiple LA Music Critic Award nominee Ben Anderson with the third and final video of you YouTopia series.  Check out “Goodbye Serenity.”

Next up is the latest from a band we recently reviewed.  They’re telling us “The Party’s Over,” but don’t believe it – we still have a few more videos to share.  Here’s The Mountain Carol.

Video number seven is from the Toronto-based trio Ace of Wands.  The cinematography is beautiful and the harmonies are incredible.  Enjoy “10,000 Feet.”

Our next video is from Brother Savannah.  It is called “Time Lapse” and it uses a “family video” type of photography which brings back some great memories and fits perfectly with the theme of the song.  We think you’ll love this one.

Our ninth video this month is an ode to Europe’s famous dance club, the “A1 Club.”  We love the retro-electro sound of the song and the video is killer as well.  Here’s Half Human.

Last but not least is the latest video from McMains.  They wanted to write a “hit song,” and this is what they came up with.  We think they nailed it, and this song should definitely be on the radio.  What do you think? Check out “Don’t Say Goodnight Tonight.”

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

Get it or Forget it – Moonshine Saints, Grandpa Grew Trees, Sara Marie Barron, Dennis Jones Band, Kris Angelis

Happy Friday.  We’re exciting to share some new releases with you, including the long awaited new EP from Kris Angelis.  Hope this gets you off to a great weekend.

Artist Name:  Moonshine Saints

Album Name:  Six Ways to Sunday Volumes 1 & 2

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Southern Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Sugar N Thunder; 2.  Frankenshine; 3.  The Fire; 4.  Production; 5.  Strong; 6.  Hell or High Water; 7.  You Take the House; 8.  Love is Like a River; 9.  Roll Like a Landslide; 10.  Drivin on Over; 11.  Anything to be Your Man; 12.  Wicked Intentions; 13.  Southern Bonafide (bonus track)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Moonshine Saints have come to rock in the style of Lynryd Skynyrd, and they show on this album that they have the same grit and fire.  From the first note of Sugar N Thunder, it quickly becomes obvious that this is a band to take notice of.  If their live show has half the energy of their album, then it must be amazing.  These songs are radio friendly and ready for immediate airplay.  There is not a weak song on this album, and we love it from start to finish.  Radio Station Managers – you need to put this band on your radar and get them on  your airplay list ASAP!

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

Artist Name:  Grandpa Grew Trees

Album Name:  Grandpa Grew Trees

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  After; 2.  Still; 3.  Ours; 4.  Backstroke; 5.  Swamp; 6.  Wolf; 7.  Worry; 8.  Names (Heaven Hold On); 9.  Morning; 10.  Better

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Elijah Poston, the songwriter behind the band, has compiled a beautiful collection of songs dealing with grief, based on his personal history with the suicides of two family members, and his desire to move on.  Poston also provides guitar and vocals, and is joined by Miguel Pilcher on drums, Griffin Rone on bass, and Mitch Mealer on guitar.  These songs are in the style of the Plain White T’s and are beautifully written with powerful lyrics about moving on.  This album should be used by every grief therapy group to help their members deal with their pain.  We highly recommend this soothing dose of musical medicine.

Recommendation:  This one belongs in your musical library.  Get it and share it today.

Artist Name:  Sara Marie Barron

Album Name:  Sad, But True

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  R&B/Soul/Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Let me be Yours; 2.  That Man; 3.  Known Better; 4.  New York City; 5.  Wanna Know; 6.  Bad News; 7.  One Thing; 8.  Does She

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  OMG – Sara Marie Barron is amazing.  Mixing a jazzy feel into her R&B and soul gives her a sound somewhere between Norah Jones and Alicia Keys, with a touch of the amazing being that is Carole King.  She could easily compete with anyone in the AAA/AC community, and we think she should be on the radio NOW.  This is soothing, relaxing chill music that you will want to put on repeat and listen to over and over again.  It is by far the best album put out by a female artist so far this year.  Her music would also be a smart choice for music supervisors for placement in television and film, as well as commercials.  We simply can’t get enough of this album.  It is no surprise that Billboard Magazine is championing her first single, “That Man.”

Recommendation:  If you only get one album this year, this should be it!  It is amazingly smooth and will make you the coolest cat on the block.

Artist Name:  Dennis Jones Band

Album Name:  WE3 Live

Label:  Blue Rock Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Blue Over You; 2.  When I Die; 3.  Passion for the Blues; 4.  Stray Bullet; 5.  Hot Sauce; 6.  Don’t Worry About Me; 7.  Super Deluxe; 8.  Enjoy the Ride; 9.  You Don’t Know a Thing About Love; 10.  Kill the Pain; 11.  Big Blat Cat; 12.  Devil’s Nightmare; 13.  I’m Good; 14.  Born Under a Bad Sign

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Boy were we in for a shock when we opened the CD case and noticed that this album was recorded in eastern Montana, at a brewery in a town that has less than 600 people.  That’s a long way to go for an album because the band is based out of Los Angeles.  We are sure the joint was jumping because the Dennis Jones Band is HOT!  This band proves that the power trio is still alive and well in music, with Jones on lead guitar and lead vocals, Sam Correa on bass and backing vocals and Raymond Johnson on drums.  The album contains 14 tracks featuring selections from all five of Jones’ solo albums as well as a stirring cover of the Albert King classic “Born Under a Bad Sign.”  This is the perfect choice if you’re in the mood for rock and blues, and it will definitely get the party going.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.  It belongs in the musical library of every rock and blues lover.

Artist Name:  Kris Angelis

Album Name:  Pieces That Were Stolen

Label:   Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Photobooth;  2.  The Sparrow; 3.  Stained Glass; 4.  Bravest

Publicist:  Magic Tree Productions

Review:  Kris Angelis has been a favorite of this blog for many years, and has won multiple LA Music Critic Awards for her previous efforts.  We have also featured the first two singles (“Photobooth” and “Stained Glass,” which she co-wrote with Garrison Starr) in our Monday Mashup column, and strongly encourage you to subscribe to her YouTube page.  It is no wonder that we always have high expectations for anything she records, and she has truly exceeded those standards.  The short four-song EP deals with loss, and she does so in a way that heals the broken heart, and brings hope and joy to the downtrodden.  This EP took a year to create, and the finished product was well worth the wait,  Angelis is one of a kind, and the best singer-songwriter to come out of Los Angeles, bar none.  Just make sure you have a box of Kleenex handy.

Recommendation:  The music of Kris Angelis is priceless, and we strongly recommend that you Get this one TODAY!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Bobbo Byrnes, Wily Bo Walker, Mark Tolstrup, De’Anza, Peggy James

It’s Thursday again, and Friday is knocking on the door.  Check out these five incredible artists to get you ready for the weekend.

Artist Name:  Bobbo Byrnes

Album Name:  Two Sides to this Town

Label:  Song & Whispers

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Angelia; 2.  Heart Like Mine; 3.  Glad; 4.  Jealous Kind; 5.  Massachusetts; 6.  Dam; 7.  Welfare Calling; 8.  Last Hurrah; 9.  Summer Wine; 10.  Vegas

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Bobbo Byrnes has been a staple of the burgeoning Americana movement in America for quite a few years.  Whether playing solo, with his lovely wife Tracy in their band The Fallen Stars, or in the combined band Riddle and the Stars, Byrnes consistently delivers some of the best music in the world.  While his vocals may be an acquired taste, much like Tom Waits, his musicianship is never in question, as he delivers stellar performances on just about anything with strings.  We have known him since the early 2000s, and have seen him and his band perform countless times, including award winning performances for the Orange County Music Awards (OCMA) and the SoCal Music Live Awards.  He and his bands are also multiple winners of the LA Music Critic Awards.  However, since the release of his last solo album Motel Americana, which we reviewed back in September 2016, he has stepped up his game, and this album may well be his best to date.  Several tracks truly shine, including “Heart Like Mine,” “Jealous Kind,” “Dam” (the best “damn” song they have ever done), “Welfare Cadillac,” and “Summer Wine.”

Recommendation:  Get it NOW!

Artist Name:  Wily Bo Walker

Album Name:  Almost Transparent Blues

Label:  Mescal Canyon Records

Genre:  Blues/Americana/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Chattahoochee Coochee Man; 2.  Loan me a Dime; 3.  I Want to Know; 4.  Storm Warning; 5.  Motel Blues; 6.  Did I Forget; 7.  Fool for You; 8.  Walking with the Devil; 9.  Long way to Heaven; 10.  Moon Over Indigo; 11.  Light at the End of the Tunnel

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Wily Bo Walker is a Scotsman who has established himself on the American blues scene, becoming one of the very few UK artists to be inducted into the U.S. Blues Hall of Fame.  Just a casual listen to his latest release erases any doubt that he is worthy of that honor.  His sound is a mix of blues, soul, classic R&B, jazz rock and Americana, and all of it is HOT!  His songs are the stuff of legends – perfect storytelling and lyrical content, a gravelly voice that leaves no doubt to the listener that this artist has lived what he sings about, and a collection of some of the greatest musicians in the world – making Walker’s music the type that you want to listen to over and over again.  This one is definitely the best blues album we have reviewed this year, and probably one of the best solo efforts as well.  Look for it to win a few awards.  There isn’t a weak song on this album.

Recommendation:  This is a MUST-HAVE for your collection, regardless of your musical tastes.  Get it before it’s gone.

Artist Name:  Mark Tolstrup

Album Name:  Northstar

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Northstar; 2.  Hey Hey Baby; 3.  I Don’t Know; 4.  Milk and Honey; 5.  Old Man’s Blues; 6.  City in the Rain; 7.  Haunted House Blues; 8.  On the Nickel; 9.  Back Water Blues; 10.  Free Brother; 11.  My Song is Don’t Worry; 12.  Dead Man’s Shirt; 13.  Requiem for Coyote

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Northstar is an intensely personal album that could only have come from Mark Tolstrup.  He lays it all on the line in the title track that sets the mood for the entire album, letting his listeners know right off the bat that they are in for a treat.  He wrote the title to be sung at the funeral of his father.  He shares these amazing songs with a cast of incredible musicians, including Jessica Wern on drums and vocal, James Gascoyne on bass, Sharon Bolton on vocals, Chris Carey on keyboard, Dave Lambert on sax, Woody Strobeck on trombone, and Oona Grady on fiddle, among others.  Together they take Tostrup’s personal vision and make it universal.  We love the overall tone of the album, and the varying kinds of blues displayed, as well as his covers of Tom Waits’ “On the Nickel” and Michael Eck’s “Dead Man’s Shirt.”

Recommendation:  You should definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  De’Anza

Album Name:  Cosmic Dream

Label:  Fusion Beats

Genre:  Latin Alternative/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  Cosmic Dream; 2.  La Puerta; 3.  Want; 4.  Stage I:  Light Sleep; 5.  Llena de Gracia; 6.  Stage III:  Deep Sleep; 7.  ¿Estás Recibiendo?; 8.  Stage V:  REM; 9.  War

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  De’Anza brings us Latin culture to the world of electronic funk in this concept album tracing the various stages of the sleep cycle.  Several of the tracks are written in Spanish and delivered with a myriad of funkiness and electronica.  We love the Latin vibe of her music, which could easily translate to serious radio airplay, as well as making some interesting placement options for television and film, especially “Want,” with its R&B groove and truly funky style.

Recommendation:  Give this artist a listen.  We think you’ll be hooked.

Artist Name:  Peggy James

Album Name:  Nothing in Between

Label:  Happy Growl Records

Genre:  Singer-Songwriter Country/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  We had to Meet; 2.  X-Files; 3.  An Hour with You; 4.  Lover; 5.  Nothing in Between; 6.  Muscle Man; 7.  Gotta Have a Love; 8.  In One Ear (and out the Other); 9.  Ghost; 10.  Sound of Your Wheels; 11.  Fallen Snow; 12.  I Wish you Well

Publicist:  Daystorm Music

Review:  Milwaukee native songbird Peggy James has released an amazing solo effort which mixes her Midwestern roots with her Southwestern influences, creating a truly unique sound that has a folky Emmylou Harris/Shawn Colvin vibe over a Grace Potter like organ sound, as well as some of the finest guitar we’ve heard in a long time.  James has such a sweet, pure and beautiful voice that takes this well-crafted gems and makes them sparkle even brighter, shining the light on every facet of the song.  The stories will draw you in, and the musicianship will keep you interested.  You will find that you don’t want anything to come between you and this music.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one today!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Teddy and the Love Gang, Lost Worlds, IAMDDB, Wes Allen, Pavan

Welcome to August!  Hope you are enjoying your summer and are ready for some more great indie artists.  Here are another five for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Teddy and the Love Gang

Album Name:  Kid Forest:  Sanctuary

Label:  Nordic Records/PaintedBlack

Genre:  Indie Rock/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Island Universe; 2.  Into the Heart; 3.  Where did I Go; 4.  These Woods

Publicist:  Nordic Records

Review:  Teddy and the Love Gang have reached the end of the journey of Kid Forest.  We reviewed the first segment (Twisted Homes) back in March, and reviewed the second one (City Dreams) in May.  The concluding chapter (Sanctuary) is a powerful climax to this amazingly fun 3-EP concept album.  Now that we know they can truly tell a story, we can’t wait to see what they come up with next.  The music is powerful, as is the story, and will have you hooked in no time flat.  We highly recommend you listen to them in order to get the full effect.

Recommendation:  If you got the previous two EPs, then you need this one to complete your set.  If this is  your first exposure to the band, we guarantee you will be hooked and need to go back to the beginning – Get them all!

Artist Name:  Lost Worlds

Album Name:  Fire Fire

Label:  Marshmallow Pavement Records

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  What you Say; 2.  I Wonder What; 3.  It Goes On; 4.  You’ll Never Know; 5.  Budgie Talk; 6.  Static Insomnia; 7.  It’s go Time; 8.  I Want Nothing; 9.  S.I.S.; 10.  Cabin Fever; 11.  I’m not One

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Sometimes it is nice to just hear straight-ahead, energetic indie rock, and that is what you get with Lost Worlds.  From the first note of “What You Say,” it becomes quickly obvious that this is a band that knows how to rock your world, and does it without missing a beat.  The first track sets the tone for the entire album, and the hits just keep coming.  This album will fuel your weekend party and get you revved up and ready for whatever the world will throw at you.  Listen to it from start to finish, and just enjoy the ride.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one, if you love rock and love music that gets your heart pumping.

Artist Name:  IAMDDB

Album Name:  Flight Mode Vol. 4

Label:  Union IV Recordings

Genre:  Urban Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Azul,; 2.  Watrfall; 3.  Thots; 4.  Drippy; 5.  Loose Change; 6.  Kurr£ency; 7.  Moonlight; 8.  XOX

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  IAMDDB’s unique “Urban Jazz” sound is a mixture of hip-hop and jazz with elements of trap and soul.  It is different from anything that calls itself hip-hop here in the States, and is further proof that some of the hippest and hottest tracks are dropping from the UK.  We would love to see a story line developed on a show like “Empire” that incorporates her music.  We think it would be a huge ratings giant, and launch this artist, who is already so hot in the UK, into the stratosphere.  We can’t wait to hear what she comes up with next.

Recommendation:  This one will appeal to both lovers of hip-hop and jazz, so get out there and grab your copy.

Artist Name:  Wes Allen

Album Name:  Funny Thing

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Ask me Now; 2.  1 Kiss; 3.  Funny Thing

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Wes Allen has a voice that has potential, but he needs some coaching.  His voice is at times out of tune, while at the same time, having some amazing qualities that remind us of artists like Jim Croce and the Plain White T’s.  He does know how to craft great songs.  We definitely think this artist has a future – he just needs the right producer to find his voice and propel him towards a successful musical career.

Recommendation:  Although he’s not quite there yet, we think he will get there soon.  Don’t miss the chance to be on the ground floor, so support his music now.

Artist Name:  Pavan

Album Name:  Greenhouse Gases

Label:  Dream Diary Records

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  My Optical Best; 2.  The Replay; 3.  Carthorse; 4.  Carthorse (Inzec & Flight Mode Remix)

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  Pavan is composed of London-based duo Joe Robbins and Will Lowes, who spend part of their time working as gardeners and florists.  Their music is a mix of electronic sound created without laptops by Lowes while Robbins provides the vocals.  The songs are uniquely upbeat, while also presenting a message about taking care of the natural world in which we live.  This EP shows bright promise of what the future holds for this interesting duo, and we can’t wait to see what comes next.

Recommendation:  Another groundbreaking duo is making waves on the indie scene and we think you need to check them out and help them continue their journey.