Month: November 2019

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Singles and Videos Ten Great Singles

Ten great singles released in November 2019

Happy Black Friday!  Hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  We spent the day with my brother’s in-laws, his wife and kids, her brother and his family and lots of dogs.  The food was plentiful and it was a very relaxing day, despite the cold and rain.  Today it’s off to brave the crowd at my Sam’s Club before heading back to Pizza Hut tomorrow for the annual day of bedlam, when OK faces OK State.  In the meantime, here are Ten Great Singles that were released in November, on top of the previously shared 20 singles from our Monday Mashup.  We hope you enjoy them.

We kick things off with Mrs. Henry, a classic rock band from San Diego, which will release its latest effort, a live album, on January 20.  Here is “All I Can Do (live).”  We love their retro sound and hope it kicks off your day perfectly.

Next up is the latest from Canadian singer-songwriter Andria Piperni, a neo-soul tune tinged with R&B and jazz called “Yours.”  We are proud to share this instant classic tune and encourage all “hopeless romantics” to check her out.

Single number three comes from the smooth sound of C. SHIROCK, who is “Lost to the Night.”  We think he could easily become one of our favorite voices.  This one is powerful, and we think perfect for this time of the year.  It tells the story of his producer’s brother and their heartfelt reconciliation.  Share this one with everyone.

Next up is an electronic duo that formed their band while on a flight to Europe.  The sound is pure 90s and full of what made electronica so popular.  Check out Divine Astronaut and their debut single, “Undone.”

We round out our first five with the return of Sonja Midtune, who we have previously featured back in February.  This one is absolutely stunning, encouraging and powerful.  Check out “Talk to Me.”

We interrupt our Ten Great Singles article to present the latest from multi-platinum selling artist Anna Nalick (“Breathe (2 a.m.)”), who has recently signed with Chesky Records.  She brings her unmistakable style to a cover of the classic song, “As Time Goes By.”  We are happy to hear a totally different sound from her, and think you’ll love her version of this standard.

Our second five starts with the dynamic sister duo The Parkers.  Here is their latest, “AI Mind,” and we think it deserves serious airplay on the radio.  Let us know what you think.

Next up is a single released today from Vicky Sometani that is upbeat, fun and truly worthy of its title, “Breeze.”  Put this one on repeat and chill.

Single number eight is an R&B/soul smooth jam called “Fourth of July” from the stunning LA artist, Jane Q Public.

https://soundcloud.com/jane-fishman/fourth-of-july-3

Our ninth single reminds us of early Colbie Cailat, and we are head over heels for Caley Rose.  We think her new single is definitely “Worth the Trip.”  With a debut this strong, we think she can definitely go anywhere, and we’ll follow.

We close out this edition of Ten Great Singles with the latest silky and jazzy smooth jam from Kylie Odetta.  This one sums up what most of us are feeling this time of year, “Too Broke Too Busy.”  Enjoy your Black Friday and we’ll be back soon with our Ten Amazing Videos set.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 35

We’ve reached our final Monday Mashup of November, and Thanksgiving is just around the corner.  Please take time this year to be thankful for family and friends, and for our military who fought for our freedom to celebrate.  Enjoy these new singles and music videos and we’ll be back soon with our Ten Great Singles and Ten Amazing Videos released in the month of November.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Alexandria Maillot.  This one has a great alternative rock vibe with powerful lyrics.  Check out “Someone to Keep you Warm.”

Our next single combines the sound of two of our favorites – Whitney Houston and Patti Labelle – to form a sweet and smooth jam called “Out of my ooo.”  We simply love the sound of Jessica Wilde and can’t wait to see what comes next.

We introduced you to the sweet and sensual sound of Emmrose last month, and she’s back with an even better song this month.  Here’s “Hopeless Romantics” for your consideration.  We think this artist definitely has “the goods.”

Single number four has a harder edge and features the dynamic London duo called Revolvers.  According to the title of their single, we are living in “Confusing Times,” and we couldn’t agree more.

Our final single, “She” comes from Richmond, Virginia band She.   Their sound is almost experimental rock but with a touch of prog, and we like it.  We think you will too.

https://soundcloud.com/user-121828030/she

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video features the powerful and strong vocals of Rookes on her song, “Salvage.”  This is by far one of the best songs we have heard this year.  What do you think?

Back in the late 80s, most of us loved a band called the Spin Doctors, composed of Chris Barron and Eric Schenkman.  When the band broke up, Barron began pursuing an indie career as a singer-songwriter, while Schenkman continue his mastery of the guitar.  Well, Schenkman is back with his latest song, “Agent Orange Blues,” and we are glad he is.  It’s a total departure from the Spin Doctors.  Let us know what you think.

Video number three comes from Scotland’s gem, Baby Taylah, and is a visually stunning video that will appeal to anyone who loved and misses Game of Thrones.  Check out “Reclaim.”

We last featured Matt LeGrand back in September.  He returns with Mexican rapper Mestiza and delivers the smooth jam “I’ve Been Watching You.”  This one is guaranteed to get you in the mood.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with a beautiful cover video from Christafari of the Christian song “Way Maker,” which features the soulful reggae sound of Avion Blackman.  We love the reggae groove and the lyrics.  Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 34

We’re now in the second half of November and headed towards Thanksgiving.  We’ve got some great new singles and videos for you today, and hope that they make you thankful for indie music.  Enjoy these treats.

NEW SINGLES

We kick things off this week with the latest from another of our favorite LA indie artists, Kris Angelis, a multiple winner of the LA Music Critic Award.  This time around she confesses “I Hope I Never Fall in Love Again,” although her fans have truly fallen for her.  Listen to the words of this song, and let her know how much you care for her craft.

Next up is Brooklyn pop star Laney Lynx, who confronts her friend’s “Bad Attitude.”  Although the sound is upbeat, make sure you pay attention to the lyrics.  This one is powerful.

Our next single comes from indie alternative pop duo Kar.  They share the frustrations of being “On Our Own.”  We’re sure everybody can relate.

 

Single number four is a beautiful song from UK pop songstress Tropico Don, who describes the process of seeking help from your friends as being her “Orion’s Belt.”  We love it and can’t wait to hear more.

Our final single this week is from another fabulous Blue Élan Records artist, Amy Wilcox.  Hear her country spin on the seminal Christmas carol, “Silent Night.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

The boy band vibe is strong in the latest video from Little Hurt.  They remind us that “It’s OK not to be OK.”  We strongly recommend this video for the shear fun of it, but also encourage you to listen to the lyrics, and take them to heart.  They have dedicated this video to support the work of Hope for the Day, a group that is helping to prevent suicides.

Next is the incredibly creative video from The Envips about the power of pop culture to change our image of success.  Check out “Last Star,” and relive the life and struggles of Marilyn Monroe.

Our third video is pure dance pop joy from the creative mind of LX.  She talks about people who keep putting the “Blame on Me.”  We guarantee this one will get you pumped up.

Next up is the soulful R&B goodness of Jacob Seeger, who wants to know if you’re “Down.”  This song is a cinematic masterpiece, and we love the sweet sentiments reflected in his lyrics.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with the latest lyric video from LA Music Critic Award-winning country trio, Southern Halo.  This one is called “Missing Mississippi,” and it is wonderfully done as a series of Polaroids.  Never give up following your dreams.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – new music vol. 5

We’ve got a rare free morning, so we thought we’d share some reviews.  Here are five new releases that we think you’ll like, so grab your coffee and get ready to meet some new artists.

Artist Name:  Abby Posner

Album Name:  Return

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Return Home; 2.  Cooking Wine; 3.  Heavy; 4.  Snow

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Listening to Abby Posner is like finding that rare vintage book in the bargain bin of the thrift store – its value isn’t determined by its surroundings.  Of all the indie artists we have encountered during our 20+ years supporting music, she is one of the most talented and unique, and never fails to deliver.  Adept on every instrument she plays, she weaves her incredible life into every note and word.  She is supported on this project by The Queertet (one of the best string sections we have ever heard), and they add so much to her sound.  Our only regret is that this long-awaiting EP is only four songs, but we know that she will continue to provide us with amazing music.  We shared the video for her first single, “Return Home,” last month and we are here to tell you that the other three songs are just as amazing.  We love the acoustic sound and will keep this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  This is the best EP released in 2019, and absolutely MUST be in your collection.  Go get it now!

Artist Name:  Tombstones in Their Eyes

Album Name:  Maybe Someday

Label:  Somewherecold Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Open Skies; 2.  Maybe Someday; 3.  I Want You; 4.  Today; 5.  Down in the Dirt; 6.  The Demon; 7.  Behind my Mind; 8.  The One; 9.  I Believe; 10.  I Can’t Feel it Anymore; 11.  Up and Down; 12.  Dreams

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  This LA band has drawn comparisons to Pink Floyd, and they are well-earned.  Their sound is obviously influenced by that classic rock band, although they have updated and modernized the sound.  These are songs that stop you in your tracks, mesmerizing your ears with that classic rock sound while the words tantalize and entice your mind.  This is a band that is going places, and they show that with a collection of songs that hit the target dead-on.  Put this one on repeat and chill.

Recommendation:  If you love classic rock and especially Pink Floyd, then this one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  BINX

Album Name:  Bee From Mars

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Phantom; 2.  Neighbors; 3.  Love on Mars; 4.  Milk; 5.  Anthem; 6.  Shock Waves; 7.  How do you Like Your Eggs?; 8.  Crying in California; 9.  Space DJ; 10.  The Hills

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We met BINX at last year’s LA Music Critic Awards showcase, and were immediately enamored with her personality and style, which is becoming just as iconic around Hollywood as Evangeline‘s pink Corvette.  We shared her first single, “Milk,” last month.  Now, with the release of her latest album, she shows that she is not just stunning stylistically, but is also incredibly talented and deserving of heavy rotation on radio and inclusion in the dance tracks of every intelligent DJ.  She is the natural successor to early Lady Gaga, with a style that sets her apart from so many indie artists.  In addition, her songs are better than so much of the current Top 40 songs, and will immediately capture your attention and affection.  You will want to hear them over and over again, and we strongly encourage you to put this one on repeat.  South Africa’s loss is truly America’s gain.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go get this one.

Artist Name:  Jack Broadbent

Album Name:  Moonshine Blue

Label:  Creature Records

Genre:  Folk/Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Moonshine Blue; 2.  If; 3.  The Other Side; 4.  Everytime I Drown; 5.  This Town; 6.  The Lucky Ones; 7.  Tonight; 8.  Wishing Well; 9.  Too Late

Publicist:  E2PR

Review:  We have shared a pair of his singles with you (“Wishing Well” and “Everytime I Drown“), and believe this British import is about to make a huge impact on the American music scene.  He is already getting praise from the jazz/blues festival circuit for his incredible slide guitar work, and we think every accolade is well deserved.  If you love sax, then you will be blown away by “The Other Side.”  But don’t stop there – enjoy every track of this amazing album.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your attention – grab it!

Artist Name:  Katy Hobgood Ray featuring Dave Ray

Album Name:  I Dream of Water

Label:  Out of the Past Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Lollie Bottoms; 2.  Washed Away; 3.  Oh Devil; 4.  I Dream of Water; 5.  House Divided; 6.  Dirty Water; 7.  Little Children’s Blues; 8.  Des Allemands; 9.  That Really Matters; 10.  Kings, Queens, and Jesters

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  From the first notes of “Lollie Bottoms,” you can feel the influence of the Big Easy on the down-home sound of this music, which would make the perfect soundtrack for an episode of NCIS: New Orleans, or any other show or movie about the south.  These songs create a truly relaxing atmosphere – all that’s missing is the beer and crayfish.  This album should be enjoyed from start to finish and then just let it play over and over again while you kick back and relax.

Recommendation:  The perfect background for a relaxing weekend – get it and enjoy it today.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 33 (rev.)

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

NEW SINGLES

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

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

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

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

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

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

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

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

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

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

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

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Live Concerts Reviews

Andy Grammer brings his message of positivity to packed house in Oklahoma City

I have known Aijia Lise Grammer for more than ten years, having met her through her friend Hope Leigh Rollins and booked her for several gigs back when I was doing shows at Genghis Cohen in Los Angeles.  Until recently, I had never had the chance to meet her husband, Andy.  Thanks to Aijia and with the help of Andy’s sterling manager, Welshie, I finally got that chance when Andy Grammer brought his “Don’t Give Up on Me” tour to The Jones Assembly in Oklahoma City on October 15.

I have been going to meet and greets for the better part of the past 25 years when I discovered this amazing part of the live concert experience.  Back in those days, the only artists doing them were country artists, and you merely had to buy a membership in their fan club to get the opportunity to meet your favorite star.  However, somewhere along the way, other genres found out about this phenomenon and have exploited it, now calling it the “VIP experience,” and charging upwards of $200 for the privilege.

Prior to this time, my favorite meet and greet outside of the early country shows was Blue October.  Grammer’s session was particularly incredible, and is now my favorite.  The experience started with a quick meet and greet and photo with him before participating in what he called the “circle of trust.”  Grammer talked about his recent losses and the strengths he had gained in going through the pain, and then invited others to share their stories with the group.  There were some compelling stories, and we all shed a few tears during our time together.  After the circle, Grammer performed a couple of acoustic songs and then opened up his merchandise booth so we could have first crack at it.  After that it was time to wait for the doors to officially open and the evening’s concert to begin.

As I was talking with Jennifer from CID, the folks that coordinated the meet and greet, I heard a familiar voice coming from the stage.  I looked up to see my dear friend Sean Hill doing his spoken word to open the show.  What a treat.  It was also a privilege to hang with him the rest of the night.

The opening band was called Nightly and they hailed from Nashville.  Composed of Joey Beretta, Jonathan Capeci and Nick Sonato, they put on a rousing show that showcased their talents and warmed up the capacity crowd for what was yet to come.  They even incorporated an outstanding U2 cover into their set.

Finally it was time for Grammer to perform.  He started the show in the center of the audience by performing a spoken word piece before playing the title track to his latest album, Naive.  He then proceeded to perform another 20 songs, including nearly every song on Naive and his megahits “Honey I’m Good,” “Keep Your Head Up,” “Fresh Eyes,” and “Good to be Alive.”

Just before he performed his new single “Wish You Pain,” he shared with the audience what he had previously shared with us during the Circle of Trust, and again invited the audience to share their stories.  He picked one member from the audience, listened to her story, and then he and Hill proceeded to write a song on the spot that illustrated that story.  It was a very special moment for both the lucky audience member and the crowd in general.

Grammer concluded the evening with a rousing performance of his latest hit, “Don’t Give up on Me.”   The evening ended as the audience joined in and sang the chorus back to him.  It was the perfect culmination for a perfect concert experience.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 32

And so we begin another month with our first Monday Mashup of November 2019.  We have some great new singles and videos for you, and truly hope to get back to reviewing albums soon.  In the meantime, check out these great new sounds.

NEW SINGLES

We kick off this edition with a special thanks to Blue Élan Records, who consistently support indie music and bring us some of the best music available today.  Case in point, The Vegabonds have released their cover of the classic song “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” a song I have loved for nearly 50 years.  This one captures all the power of the lyrics and puts that special spin on it that is the trademark of The Vegabonds.

Next up we have a pair of holiday songs from two more prominent Blue Élan artists, Cindy Alexander and Roan Yellowthorn.   First up is Alexander’s take on the holiday classic, “Do you Hear What I Hear?”

Yellowthorn joins with Car Astor to bring us their version of another holiday classic, “River.”  Hopefully these songs will get you in the holiday mood.

Next up is the Top 40-worthy sound of Midnight Divide, with their song “Say You Believe.”  We think you’ll be hearing these guys on your local radio dial soon.  Their sound reminds us of OneRepublic meets Imagine Dragons.

Our final single this week is from Canadian folk-rock band Union Duke.  We love the laid back and chill sound and think that you will be putting “Atlas of Love” on repeat.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We are happy to share the debut of the new music video from Maltese Flamingo, “Shivers.”  This one is trippy, but fun.  Enjoy!

Next up is a video from Crystal Bright, an artist we have previously featured on Indie Voice Blog, but haven’t heard from in a while.  This one is powerful, so dig in and listen to “I’ll Hold You.”

Next up is one of our favorite bands that don’t take themselves seriously, namely Ninja Sex Party.  On the first single from their upcoming covers album, they give us their take on the classic Jefferson Starship tune, “We Built This City.”  Sit back and enjoy this version.

We travel across the pond for the rocking groove of Carnival Club‘s latest video, “Lady.”  Let the hair fly and the good times begin.

We close out the week with this fun video from Penny Dreadful, the delightful burlesque alter ego of multi-LA Music Critic Award winner VK Lynne.  Here she does a cover of the Cher classic, “Welcome to Burlesque.”  We think it is the perfect tribute to our friends at Cherry Poppins Productions, and we salute them on the occasion of their seventh anniversary.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Singles and Videos Ten Amazing Videos

Ten amazing videos released in October 2019

We kick off this edition of Ten Amazing Videos with a hilarious reggae romp from Ricardo Barragan.  The song is full of hooks and very humorous.  Check out “Coo Coo Cucaracha Karoake.”

Our next video is from the Danish equivalent of LA’s Shannon Hurley – HunBjørn.  The video beautifully brings to life the complicated and mysterious lyrics of “Keep Breathing.”

Video number three is a modern rock song from Ten Minute Detour.  We think this one has legs and would love to hear more from them.  Check out “Bleeding Green.”

Next up is the classic rock sound of Jack Broadbent.  We love this 60s vibe on “Wishing Well” and hope to hear more from him soon.

We round out the first five videos with the stunning cinematography of Thailand’s most sought-after spa, as featured in the video for “Sanctuary” by The Isan Project (featuring Daniel Ryan).  Bask in this beauty.

Before we kick off our second five, here’s a snippet of the latest video from the prolific mind of Fred Hostetler, with his thoughts on our President.  Check out “He’s Gone Rogue,” and let us know what you think.

Our second five starts with another stunning video, this time from Canadian JS Williams.  The song is entitled “Hôtel des Arts” and features Alejandra Ribera.  Enjoy this smooth jam.

Next up is a sumptuous and steamy video from Finnish pop songstress Johanna Kuvaja that asks the question, Can I see you in the “Shower?”  Where does the line start?

We follow up those steamy visuals with an equally stunning visualization from Red Tan.  Her song “Don’t Let Go” was released on the anniversary of her husband’s death, and is truly powerful.

Video number nine is a lyric video for the amazing country song, “Avaline” by Emily Miller.  We think this lady is going to go far in country music, and look forward to hearing much more from her in the future.

We close the book on October with this amazing video statement of the power of mothers and women in general.  Check out Valerio Lysander‘s powerful tribute, “A Woman.” which he wrote for his mother on her 50th birthday.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Ten Great Singles

Ten great singles released in October 2019

We can hardly believe that it’s November already, although Mother Nature has been getting our attention with these dramatic weather changes.  At any rate, it’s time to close the books on October with our Ten Great Singles and Ten Amazing Videos articles, so sit back and enjoy the groove.

First up is the latest from singer-songwriter Nadia Vaeh with her Halloween-themed song, “1,000 cuts.”  We love the sound of this song and think it belongs on the radio.  We can’t wait to see her video of this cool song.

Our next single comes from The Brilliance, a group we introduced you to the first Monday in October.  They have another great new single that is worthy of your attention, and makes us even more excited about their forthcoming album which drops in January.  Here’s “Facebook.”

Single number three has a great smooth groove that should help jump start your Monday morning.  It comes to us from Danny Zee and we are excited to hear his new single “Blue Butterfly.”  Definitely check this one out.

We introduced you to Lucas Laufen back in September when he released his video for “A Million Miles From Love.”  His new single is just as amazing, as he shares that “I Know Where the Silence Is.”  This is beautiful and contemplative music that should be great for your next chill time.

We round out the first five singles with this potential monster hit from KTJ & Carly.  They want to take us dancing in the “Moonlight,” and we can’t wait to join them on the dance floor.

We start our second five off with the latest from LA Music Critic Award winner K Michelle Dubois.  Her new single, “Feast or Famine,” has a definite 80s rock vibe and we are so glad to have her back again.  Enjoy this one!

Speaking of the 80s, the latest from Most People, “Breathe,” is reminiscent of Duran Duran meets Hall & Oates, and has our toes tapping and our ears salivating for more.  Enjoy this soon to be classic song.

The sound of Late Night Thoughts is about to go mainstream.  This band is ready to pop and their new single, “Postcard Park” is worthy of heavy rotation and serious placements in film and television.

Single number nine is a future pop hit from Canadian Kristen Karma, who is writing a “Dear John” letter to her departed loved one.  This one has excellent lyrics with plenty to think about, and a perfect rap in the middle of the song.

We wrap things up with “Phoenix,” which is one of the most powerful songs we have heard in quite a while.  It comes from Noella Rain, who we introduced to you in August.  Her vocals soar and her message is definitely needed in today’s crazy world.  Hard to believe she’s only 16 years old!