Month: November 2018

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

Get it or forget it – Diane Durrett and Soul Suga, Eric Tingstad, Peter V Blues Train, Michelle Lewis, Gaetano Letizia and the Underworld Blues Rock Band

We got our first official snowfall over night, so it appears that winter is truly here.  Heading out to see Bohemian Rhapsody this afternoon, and can’t wait because we have always been huge Queen fans.  Before we go, we wanted to share some new music with you, so check out these five amazing artists.

Artist Name:  Diane Durrett & Soul Suga

Album Name:  Live

Label:  Blooming Tunes Music

Genre:  R&B/Blues/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Intro Soul Suga; 2.  Bright Side; 3.  Interlude – Top 10; 4.  Butters in the Skillet; 5.  Interlude – You Say; 6.  It is What it Is; 7.  Interlude – Feeling Better; 8.  Interlude – Bend or Break; 9.  Wish it Would Rain; 10.  Interlude – Feeling the Love; 11.  Love has a Right to be Wrong; 12.  Story – Dog Rescue; 13.  Be Somebody’s Angel; 14.  Story – Grandmother Says; 15.  All is Well; 16.  Interlude – Thank Ya’ll; 17.  In Between Times; 18.  Junebugs Percussion Solo; 19.  Sassy Larùe; 20.  Interlude – Buzzin; 21.  Summertime; 22.  Don’t That Bring you Back; 23.  Interlude – Fun Time; 24.  Woohoo; 25.  Soul Suga Band Intro

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Eddie’s Attic has always been a venue where indie artists love to perform.  It is easy to understand why as we listen to this amazing live album, recorded during her two shows which captures the vibe and feel of  that famous place.  Interspersed between their ten originals and one dynamic cover are some great moments of improv, storytelling and spontaneity.  Durrett and her band ROCK this joint with a mixture of R&B, soul, blues and gospel, creating a memorable performance that is now available for all to have, especially the horn-infused Top 10 tune “Butters in the Skillet.”  The message of the music is hope and perseverance, something our country desperately needs.  We think you will find what you’re looking for in this dynamic album, so keeping looking at the “Bright Side” and “Be Somebody’s Angel.”

Recommendation:  By all means, rush out and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Eric Tingstad

Album Name:  Electric Spirit

Label:  Cheshire Records

Genre:  Blues/Roots/Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Electric City; 2.  French Quarter; 3.  Oh’ Shenandoah; 4.  Bessie; 5.  Amazing Grace; 6.  There’s More; 7.  South to Carolina; 8.  Big River; 9.  Key West; 10.  Flamingo Club; 11.  The Train of Thought; 12.  Over the Rainbow

Publicist:  Lazz Promotions

Review:  Eric Tingstad is another amazing artist we have met because of the Durango Songwriters Expo.  He is a Grammy-winning musician who has brought us albums in a myriad of genres, including New Age, Alt Country, Blues, Roots/Americana, Rock and Smooth Jazz.  On this album, he continues in the roots/Americana style with a healthy dose of blues guitar, perfectly demonstrated on the opening track, “Electric City.”  While there are some amazing vocals by Chloe Dolandis on “There’s More,” this album is primarily an instrumental one, displaying Tingstad’s amazing abilities for all to enjoy. His covers of traditional songs like “Oh’ Shenandoah,” “Amazing Grace,” “Big River,” and “Over the Rainbow” will amaze and impress, as will his original tunes, providing further proof of why he has become such a prolific and award-winning musician, composer and arranger.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  Peter V Blues Train

Album Name:  Shaken but not Deterred

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t Wanna Leave Memphis; 2.  Blue Monday; 3.  By the River; 4.  For all we Know; 5.  In Demand; 6.  T Bone Shuffle; 7.  Alibi; 8.  Don’t Cheat on my Lady; 9.  Rodeo (No BS); 10.  Getting Closer Now; 11.  Been so Long; 12.  Shaken but not Deterred; 13.  LIVE:  Worried Life Blues (bonus track)

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  While most artists seem to drop a new album about every two years, indie artists are more prolific with their music.  Case in point is the Peter V Blues Train, which has just released their second album of 2018.  We reviewed their previous one back in March, and this one is no less amazing.  It raises the awesomeness factor another notch, especially those amazing vocals and guitar licks of Peter V and that incredible sax of Danny Walsh.  This time around the album includes nine originals and four covers, including Fats Domino‘s “Blue Monday,” Donnie Hathaway‘s “For All we Know,” and the blues standard “T Bone Shuffle.”   Add another diamond to the crown pf one of the best blues bands in the world.

Recommendation:  Peter V and his band deliver once again.  Run out and Get their latest offering.

Artist Name:  Michelle Lewis

Album Name:  All That’s Left

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  That’s What They Say; 2.  All That’s Left; 3.  Push On; 4.  Dancing in the Dark; 5.  How; 6.  In Love Again; 7.  Scars; 8.  You and Me; 9.  Please Don’t Go; 10.  Lay on my Pillow

Publicist:  Devious Planet

Review:  While much of today’s pop scene is pure escapism, the music of Michelle Lewis is more down-to-earth, keeping us grounded in reality but still providing a healthy dose of hope in overcoming adversity, especially in the area of finding true love and overcoming loss.  Although her third album continues to showcase her amazing songwriting chops, it also includes something she has not previously done before, a cover of Bruce Springsteen‘s amazing song “Dancing in the Dark.”  Among her originals, best tracks include “Push On,” “How,” the amazing duet “In Love Again,” “Scars,” and “Please Don’t Go.”  The theme of the album is best summarized in the words of “Push On” – “You’ve got to push on.”  Thank you Michelle for giving us hope that tomorrow can be brighter.    We love your spirit.

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – Rush out and Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Gaetano Letizia & the Underworld Blues Rock Band

Album Name:  Beatles Blues Blast

Label:  Letizia Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Come Together; 2.  Do it in the Road; 3.  Drive my Car; 4.  Money; 5.  Tax Man; 6.  While my Guitar Gently Weeps; 7.  She Came in Through the Bathroom Window; 8.  I Want You (She’s so Heavy); 9.  And I Love Her; 10.  Can’t Buy me Love; 11.  You Can’t do That; 12.  Yesterday; 13.  Get Back; 14.  With a Little Help From my Friends; 15.  Birthday; 16.  Blackbird; 17.  A Day in the Life

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Believe it or not, The Beatles, like many of the other British Invasion bands, started out as a blues band, and this album reimagines 17 of their songs as if they had stayed that way.  Featuring the amazing guitar work of Gaetano “Tom” Letizia, these covers retain all the appeal of The Beatles’ originals while giving them new life as future blues standards.  It is only fitting that it took a band from the home of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to accomplish this feat.

Recommendation:  If you love The Beatles and blues, then this is the perfect combination of the two.  Get it.

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 40

Happy Monday – tomorrow is Election Day, so please VOTE!  It was a busy weekend, and this month will be even more so as we conclude the reviews for consideration in the Second Half of 2018 LA Music Critic Awards.  The nominations will be announced on December 7, so get ready to vote for your favorite indie performer.  In the meantime, here are this week’s picks for new singles and music videos.

NEW SINGLES

We kick things off this week with a remake of The Guess Who‘s song, “These Eyes.”  Lisa Lambe has recently signed with Blue Élan Records and her first album with them will be released in Spring 2019.  Lambe should be no stranger to you as she was a member of the amazing group Celtic Woman, so sit back and enjoy her interpretation of this classic song.

Our second single is from Sarra, who we introduced to you back in August.  We have huge expectations for this artist, and truly expect her to be on the top of the charts in no time at all.  Here’s her latest single, “Your Name.”

Next up is an LA artist who is also an amazing skater and KJ.  Check out “Crying Wolf” from CH3LS.  We think she’ll make a believer out of you.

Our fourth single is from very successful indie artist Joshua Radin.  Check out his new tune, “Three Little Birds,” his cover of the Bob Marley classic.   This one should get you chill for the new week.

Our final single for this week is another cover, this time “Creep” by the Stone Temple Pilots, as interpreted by LA artist James Bowers.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Airpark and is the first single from their forthcoming album.  Check out “Devotion.”

Our next video is about a hot topic that is truly relevant as we head into Election Day – school shootings.  Check out “Let’s Rise,” a song co-written by Glenn Dinofer, Josh Bonilla, Jasmina Daniello, Ben Joseph Vernon and Roman Britton, and beautifully directed by Michelle Esrick.  This one should move you to action. #Enough

Next up is Pleasure Craft, whose “Back in the Game” addresses our overwhelming need to be identified by our clothes.  Let the words of this song sink in.

Our fourth video is from The Holy Knives, who we reviewed last week.  Check out the first video from their new album, “Memory Book.”

Our final video for the week is about another social issue – judging others.  Check out this powerful video from Hugh James, “My Brother’s Shoes.” featuring 3G.  Alan Marino does a stellar job on the video.  Let’s all make a difference.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten amazing videos released in October 2018

It’s been a great day so far.  Miami’s stellar defense made four sacks and four interceptions, including a pick-6 that provided the margin of victory.  In addition, Indie Voice Blog has garnered more than 80,000 views in just over 38 months.  Let’s celebrate with another 10 amazing videos from the more than 100 we received this month.  Here we go!

With Election Day fast approaching, we thought it might be wise to share a music video that speaks about social issues.  Check out this lyric video from Illiterate Light for their song, “Growin’ Down.”  And don’t forget to vote!

Our next video was filmed in Bodie, California, one of our favorite ghost towns.  It is an original tune by Stone Stanley’s Jason Robert, and conceptualizes one of the legends of that famous mining town.  The cinematography is breathtaking and the song belongs in a class on California history.  Tell us what you think.

Our third video reminds us of Lenka, and features the incredible sound of Somme‘s hit “Broken Hearted Lovers.”  This one has a beat that is guaranteed to get you on the dance floor.  We hope you love it as much as we do.

Our next video is also relevant for Election Day, as Nashville’s resident punk rocker Taco Mouth provide their views on the current political scene with their anti-Trump video, “Fighting for Today.”  This one is well thought out and provides an interesting stance – let us know what you think.

Our fifth video has a very strong Emmylou Harris vibe.  We simply love the sound of New Zealand’s Mel Parsons, and her video for “I Got the Lonely.”  This one could go very far!

We start our second five videos with this amazing cinematic video for Völuspa‘s glorious ballad, “Miss You Too.”  We think this one sets a high bar and we look forward to seeing what she does next.

Video number seven is an autobiographical sketch into what it’s like to be an indie band in today’s music scene.  Check out the video for “On my Way”by City on Down.

Halloween may be over, but the spirit lives on in Maggie Lindemann‘s impressive video for her song, “Human.”  Enjoy this spooky video.

For our ninth video we go all the way to Norway for the tantalizing video by Sigrid for her song, “Sucker Punch.”  This one will give you all the energy you need for the coming week.

Our final video this month is from Canadian R&B/Pop artist Nuela Charles.  It is another spooky good video for the energetic song “Danger.”  We think it is the perfect video to segue into Election Day.  Enjoy.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Great Singles

Ten great singles released in October 2018

It’s time to close the books on October 2018 in terms of the singles we have received.  Since this was a five-Monday month, we have already shared our favorite 25 singles of the nearly 200 we received.  Here are 10 more of the best to close out the month.

Our first single comes from UK band, The Desert.  We like the sound of the lead vocalist, and the simple accompaniment that highlights her words and increases the vibe.  Check out “Gone.”

We don’t know how this one slipped past us, but here is the latest single from one of our favorite young performers, Blue Élan Records artist Chelsea Williams.  Here is the Road to Marfa mix of her song, “Dreamcatcher.”  This version is brilliantly scored and sure to appeal to just about everyone.

Our third single is from the soaring and smooth sound of Leo James Conroy.  We simply love his single “Leave it all Behind,” and think that he has what it takes to become a household name in the industry.

https://soundcloud.com/alternative-fidelity/leo-james-conroy-leave-it

“Go Slow”, the latest single from MAJRO, features a danceable beat and soaring vocals that are simply fun, both to listen or dance to.  We think this young lady will get your weekend off to a great start.

https://soundcloud.com/callmemajro/go-slow/s-fX5l1

Our fifth single continues the trend of smooth vocals, and reminds us of the amazing Josh Kelley.  Check out “Looking Everywhere” by Jason Ewald.

Our second set of five starts off with a true indie success story.  Allen Stone has become somewhat of a legend on the music scene.  On “Taste of You,” he joins with the amazing Jamie Lidell to deliver another stellar hit.

Our seventh single features an artist we introduced to you back in September, and we are overjoyed at her latest offering.  Enjoy “I Am Drum” by the amazing Kinney.

Our next single features the powerful sound of OcnSide, with their song, “Bless Your Soul.”  If this one doesn’t get you going, then nothing will.  Enjoy this weekend warmup.

Single number nine is the fourth single released by Cold Weather Company from their forthcoming album Find Light, which will be released in January.  Check out “Brothers.”

Last but not least is the amazing orchestral sound of Charlie Hole‘s “Find Someone who Cares.”  We think this one will get you through anything that life can throw at you.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Heartspank, Buildings and Food, Coyote Choir, Danny Golden, The Holy Knives

Happy New Music Friday – we made it to another weekend.  Hard to believe that on this date in 1976, I was raising my right hand to join the Navy.  What a trip these past 40+ years have been.  Let’s celebrate with these five new albums being released today.

Artist Name:  Heartspank

Album Name:  Heartspank II

Label:  DoubleMayJah Records

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  Opus (Clair de lune); 2.  Fox; 3.  Whatchado; 4.  Pong; 5.  Keep Runnin’; 6.  Need/Want

Publicist:  DoubleMayJah Records

Review:  Heartspank is composed of producers Ana-Tole and Jonah Christian, who also work with Logic and Lil Wayne when not creating their own sound.  On their sophomore EP, they bring songs that would fit well into a house DJ mix, as well as provide samples that could be placed in everything from commercials to television and film.  These are not the type of songs  you will hear on the radio, but definitely on the dance floor.  It is hard to describe their music, but suffice it to say that it is unique.

Recommendation:  Check it out.

Artist Name:  Buildings and Food

Album Name:  Quick Beat Save

Label:  Number F Records

Genre:  Electronic/Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Slow to Reverse; 2.  Quick Beat; 3.  Motherwell on the Stairs; 4.  1979:  Pennies and Pluto; 5.  Food Court; 6.  Rewind the Dog; 7.  On the Lino; 8.  Air Weight End

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  Buildings and Food is the first solo project from Canadian artist Jen K. Wilson after a 10 year absence from making music.  All we can say is welcome back.  Wilson brings new life to the chaotic electronic music scene by inserting elements of the singer-songwriter vibe, coupled with well-crafted lyrics that take her music to a new level, as demonstrated on the first single, “Slow to Reverse,” as well as “1979:  Pennies and Pluto.”  Her instrumental work, especially on “Quick Beat” and “Motherwell on the Stairs,” is first-rate, and worthy of consideration for placement opportunities in television, film and commercials.  For a total change of pace, check out “Rewind the Dog.”

Recommendation:  You should definitely take this one for a spin.

Artist Name:  Coyote Choir

Album Name:  Volume 1

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Awakenings; 2.  Kingdom of Love; 3.  Rainbows; 4.  Keep the Fire Alive; 5.  Sing!; 6.  I’ll be Waiting Here; 7.  Where Joy is Found; 8.  Keep Moving On; 9.  Always There

Publicist:  Far Digital PR

Review:  In a world so full of negativity, it is so refreshing to hear a band that brings hope, joy and positivity to their music.  Every song on this amazing album is upbeat and uplifting, and could easily fit into the CCM or AAA format.  After listening to them, it is impossible to not have hope that everything will work out for the best.  Their message is clear:  Don’t let the weight of the world steal your joy.  Take it back as you re-discover the simple joys that life brings.  These sentiments are best demonstrated on “Sing!”We strongly encourage the entire industry to take notice of this band, especially music supervisors looking for positive songs for their projects.

Recommendation:  Run out and get this one like your life depends on it (it does!)

Artist Name:  Danny Golden

Album Name:  Old Love

Label:  Drunk Luck Records

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Old Love; 2.  Float Me; 3.  Texas; 4.  Delilah; 5.  Honeymoon; 6.  Old Mate; 7.  Window; 8.  Forever; 9.  Hangover; 10.  Livin’ Without Your Love

Publicist:  Noisy Ghost PR

Review:  From the first notes of the title track and first single, “Old Love,” it becomes quickly obvious that this is not just another Americana artist, but a fellow traveler sharing his wisdom with the world.  This Pittsburgh native has found a new home in Austin, and his experiences translate into hopeful words for his listeners to contemplate.  This is an artist about to break out, and deserves industry attention.  His music is radio friendly, and his songs belong in heavy rotation.  You can’t go wrong with this one.  Kudos for an amazing effort – both the lead and backing vocals are incredible!

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – just run out and Get this one!

Artist Name:  The Holy Knives

Album Name:  Year of the Black Dog

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  I Guess it’s Enough; 2.  Stray Dog; 3.  Memory Book; 4.  Switchblade Heart; 5.  Hostage; 6.  Loose Tooth; 7.  Cold Ground; 8.  Don’t Tear me Out; 9.  Lucky Day; 10.  The Right Kind of Eyes

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We reviewed their debut EP last May, and are more than happy to review their debut full length album.  We have also featured three of their singles/videos, and are even more sure that this band deserves national attention.  They have a true classic rock style reminiscent of legends like David Bowie and Depeche Mode, and are quickly making a name for themselves.  These songs are truly radio friendly, and deserve their place on our airwaves.  This one is definitely going on repeat.

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

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Musta Paraati, The Bottle Rockets, DidYouDie, Leslie Nuss, Julianne Q and the Howl

Hope you all survived Halloween.  It was a crazy night at work, and extremely busy, but it’s just a taste of what is to come during the holiday shopping season.  Here are another five amazing artists to jump start your weekend as Friday approaches.

Artist Name:  Musta Paraati

Album Name:  Black Parade

Label:  Cleopatra Records

Genre:  Post-punk/Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Animosity; 2.  Nacht Der Untoten; 3.  The Leader; 4.  Aujourd’hui; 5.  Chopsticks; 6.  The Race is On; 7.  Radio; 8.  Digital Twin; 9.  Reaper; 10.  Today; 11.  If I Die Tomorrow

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  After 34 years, Musta Paraati, a Finnish post-punk band have returned with a new album, and it is damn good.  With a new lead vocalist (Jyrki Linnankivi of The 69 Eyes) who reminds us of David Bowie, and a sound that is pure classic rock, this band is making up for lost time with this amazing album.  Ten of the tracks are brand new ones written in English, while the first single, “The Leader,” is an English translation of their hit “Johtaja” from 1983.

Recommendation:  If you want to rock, then you simply must Get this one.

Artist Name:  The Bottle Rockets

Album Name:  Bit Logic

Label:  Bloodshot Records

Genre:  Country/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Bit Logic; 2.  Highway 70 Blues; 3.  Lo-Fi; 4.  Maybe Tomorrow; 5.  Bad Time to be an Outlaw; 6.  Saxophone; 7.  Human Perfection; 8.  Knotty Pine; 9.  Way Down South; 10.  Doomsday Letter; 11.  Stovall’s Grove; 12.  Silver Ring

Publicist:  Bloodshot Records

Review:  With a sound reminiscent of 80s country bands like Confederate Railroad and Sawyer Brown, The Bottle Rockets are set to hit the big time with the release of their latest album, which is already tearing up the charts.  This is good ole fashioned country music with a modern-day Americana vibe, and is perfect for your next beer run or road trip.  The album starts with the soon-to-be #1 smash and title cut “Bit Logic” and doesn’t slow down through the entire album, which is truly radio friendly and should be on the radar of every station manager in country and Americana radio.  We really love the tongue in cheek message behind “Bad Time to be an Outlaw,” which reminds us of the George Strait classic, “Murder on Music Row.”  This one will quickly become a favorite.

Recommendation:  If you love classic country that still addresses real world issues, then this is the band for you.  Get this one today!

Artist Name:  DidYouDie

Album Name:  Royal Unicorn

Label:  Blew//Rose

Genre:  Shoegaze/Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Channel Swimmers; 2.  Like I Care; 3.  Till the Morning Light; 4.  Carry On; 5.  Feel me Tremble; 6.  My Everything; 7.  Only One I; 8.  Never Gonna be so Cool; 9.  Lie Where you Are; 10.  Bliss; 11.  Realizing a Dream

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This Canadian band has a dynamic sound that is so much more than simple shoegaze, incorporating the greater mantle of indie rock and keeping it real.  The lyrics are well written with the perfect accompaniment to make the words stand out, appealing to all of your senses.  This music is perfect for your next party or when you need a reason to get up and dance.  It is also radio friendly and deserves a chance on American radio.  If the energy in their live show is anywhere near that contained in this release, then they must be a kick-ass band to see in concert.

Recommendation:  Grab this one while you can, cause this band is going places!

Artist Name:  Leslie Nuss

Album Name:  The Album V: Part One

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Lost; 2.  The Subway; 3.  Glory Days; 4.  Writer; 5.  Lost (radio edit)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  While Leslie Nuss is an artist unfamiliar to us, we are quite familiar with her producer, the amazing Ainjel Emme, who was previously a part of the bands Goddess Freak Ensemble and Tits and Giggles, as well as a dynamic DIY solo performer before creating the Block of Joy, a multimedia house providing content creation and artistic development to upcoming talent in music and film.  Emme has definitely outdone herself on this project, shining the spotlight on the amazing voice and talent of Nuss.  All four songs are outstanding, and worthy of industry attention.  Nuss is trulky an artist on the cusp of greatness, and we can’t wait to hear what she delivers in parts 2 and 3 of this project.

Recommendation:  By all means, jump on this train and Get this EP.  You’ll be glad you did.

Artist Name:  Julianne Q & The Howl

Album Name:  Sky Rider

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Powder; 2.  Leavin’ You; 3.  Poseidon; 4.  Born to Die; 5.  Sky Rider

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Responding to adversity has reshaped the sound of Julianne Q from a more traditional classic rock vibe to the current blues rock.  This album was written during a time of crisis, and reflects the frustration the band was feeling over the loss of their guitarist, especially on “Leavin’ You.”  The silver lining is that this paradigm swing has brought out the best in this band, allowing Julianne Q’s soaring vocals to rise above the chaos and create music that is worth listening to.  The band rocks through various blues styles and is truly worthy of their name, “The Howl.”  This is a sound you won’t soon forget, so you would be wise to simply add it to  your collection.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one, the sooner the better.