Month: March 2020

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Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 5)

No sooner did I publish what was supposed to happen with my work hours than they changed it up again.  They now tell me for the foreseeable future I will be working Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9 to 5, Friday and Saturday from 5 to midnight, with Sunday and Monday off.  We’ll see how long that lasts.  In the meantime, we have news from the Hollywood Fringe Festival, as well as five new singles and music videos to get your week off to a great start.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL 2020

If you know me, you know I love the theater in general, and the Hollywood Fringe Festival in particular.  We are saddened to have to announce that, due to events now gripping our planet, the 2020 Hollywood Fringe Festival has been tentatively rescheduled to October 1-25, 2020.

To give participants a clear decision-making deadline, these dates will be confirmed or cancelled by August 1, 2020, based on guidance from federal, state and local health authorities.   The HFF staff will be publishing criteria for this decision in the coming days as to their decision-making process.

If you were planning to be part of HFF20 as a participant, check out their blog post for more information.  If you plan to participate in October, they encourage you to contact your venues to reschedule for the October dates.  Reach out with thoughts, questions, and concerns to support@hollywoodfringe.org.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from an amazing NYC singer-songwriter who recently released her debut album.  Mae Krell‘s first release is poignant and fresh, and we think she has a long career ahead.  Listen to the words of her song “Garden,” but make sure you have some tissues ready.

Our next single comes from down under, and introduces us to the hot new sound of ThBenj.  We love his upbeat style and think “Y” is the perfect breakout single.  Check it out and let us know what you think.

For our third single we head across the pond for the latest from London-based R&B artist Effie.  We introduced you to her back in September.  Her new song is “Spiteful,” and it’s an eye-opening ballad.  Listen carefully to the words of this future masterpiece.

Next up is a song that speaks to what the world is going through right now.  Canadian Jacqueline Tucci shares her “Fear,” but don’t give up because we will get through this yet.

We close out this week’s singles with the latest from one of our favorite indie acts, Scotland’s Single by Sunday.  We haven’t heard anything new from them since 2017, but we love their upbeat take on life.  We’re sure you’ll be singing the chorus for “Debbie” in no time at all.  Enjoy this little treat.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Casey Ahern kicks off our music videos with her incredible video for “Sunday Driver,” which was just released hours ago.  We love her sound and are very pleased to share this beautiful video with you.

Next up is the latest video from bluesman Mike Zito, a lyric video for his timely song, “Don’t Let the World Get You Down.”  We love the sentiments and agree with them completely – keep listening to great indie music and we will get through this together.

Video number three is a modern remake of the 80’s classic song, “(I Just)  Died in Your  Arms” by Cutting Crew.  With the additional of the strings, we think they sound even better then they did 40 years ago.  Enjoy this blast from the past.

Next up is the latest from another of our favorite indie bands, The Mowgli’s, which was shot on an iPhone 11.  Check out this tune, and “Weight on Me.”

Rounding out this week’s new releases is this beautiful video from Hillary Capps, who shows us “The Way Back Home.”  Let this peaceful tune set the mood for your week.

We’ll be back soon with our list of Ten Great Singles and Ten Amazing Videos for the month of March.

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

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 4)

What a year this week has been.  It is hard to believe that working at an eating establishment is considered an “essential business.”  At Pizza Hut, they just told us yesterday of the changes they are doing during the COVID-19 crisis.  Starting on Wednesday, our staff has been split into two groups.  We will work alternating days from open to close, and will not be allowed to socialize with the other team.  So one week I will be working four days (between 14-15 hours a day) with the following day off, and the following week three days of work and four days off.  In addition, this “inside crew” will be the only ones allowed inside the store, as all the drivers must wait outside in their cars.  When a delivery is ready, we will dispatch them from inside the store.  We had a trial run on Saturday, and it worked quite well.  Not sure how long this will last, but probably at least through the month of April.

In the meantime, it has been refreshing to hear all of the independent musicians participating in the #LIVEATHOME series.  During these times, we need your music more than ever.  Thank you for providing a refreshing escape from the utter chaos.  We truly appreciate you.

If you are planning on doing this on a regular basis, please let us know and we will get the word out.  In the meantime, here are five new singles and music videos that moved us this week.

NEW SINGLES

This week our first single is from an unknown British band named Tungz, who asks the important question, “Can’t we Just be Friends Again?”  Our overwhelming response is “Absolutely!”  We look forward to hearing more from this interesting and fresh new artist.

Next up is the eclectic artist known as Diners.  His sound is a throwback to pop music of past decades but with a fresh approach to is truly unique.  Check out his first single from his upcoming album, “Learning Curve.”  We think you’ll want to hear more.

Our third single comes to us courtesy of Tunnel, a dynamic duo of unbridled talent.  This song truly stands out with an amazing synth sound and lyrics that bring back memories of 80s symphonic bands.  We are loving them and hope you enjoy “Walking the Waves” as much as we do.

Our next single comes from an artist whose voice sounds strangely familiar, and instantly likable.  His name is Joel Plaskett and he shares his latest single “If There’s Another Road.”  We think this one is worthy of the repeat button.

Our final single this week is “Noon Drunk,” a 60’s rocking tune from Ben Wood and The Bad Ideas.  Even though we don’t necessarily agree with the sentiments, we do love the vibe of this song.  Rock on.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We start off this week’s new music videos with a pair from clients of one of our favorite publicity guys, Doug Deutsch Publicity Services.  First up is Deltaphonic, a funky blues band from New Orleans.  Check out their song “Liars,” which is their take on the current state of the music industry.  Regardless of how you feel about the subject matter, this band has a terrific groove and we could listen to them all day.  Can’t wait to hear more.

Continuing in the funky blues vein is Sean Ardoin, with a new video for his Grammy-nominated single “Kick Rocks.”  We are truly jamming to his sound and will definitely be listening to this tune on repeat.

We knew it was only a matter of time and now it’s here.  Check out indie artist Brian Travis‘ tongue-in-cheek take of life in “The Pandemic Song.”  This one is truly food for thought.

Our fourth video is graphic in content but truly hits home with its interpretation of DV and other aspects of life that are “Unfair.”  Check out the dynamic sound of Deleo.

Last but not least this week is the latest from multi-Grammy winning artist Dave Yaden.  His jazz career is taking off and he shows you why in this video for his latest song, “Herbie,” shot live and all in one take.  Fall in love with this master of the black and white keys.

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 3)

Did R.E.M. get it right when they said “It’s the end of the world as we know it?” or is this just a chance to reboot how we do things in the indie music community?  We have been amazed at the creative lengths indie artists are going to to get their messages out, from online chats and concerts to more interactive means like Facebook and Periscope.  Our hats are off to you as you find ways to keep in contact with your fans and get your message out into the universe.  We here at Indie Voice Blog will do whatever we can to help.  Just keep us informed and we will pass on the information.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from the Czech band Corpulent Provocateur.  It is a full out indie rock fest with great melody and well thought out lyrics.  Check out “Brown” – we think you’ll be hooked as well.

Next up is the British trio Arliston with their melancholy single “South.”  We love the sound of this band and the lyrics give you a lot to think about, especially during this current health crisis.  Let us know what you think.

Our third single is primed and ready for radio.  It is the latest from Jackie Castro and we simply can’t get enough of this song.  “Gravity” is truly worthy of Top 40 consideration.  Welcome to the voice of a superstar.

Next up is an equally impressive song from an artist who reminds us of a cross between Andy Grammer and Adam Levine/Maroon 5.  “Charlie” introduces us to Caravãna Sun, and we think we’ll be hearing a lot more from this amazing band.

We close out this week’s new singles with the latest from Canadian band I, the Mountain.  They hit the ground running with the title track from their forthcoming album, “Little Wild,” which releases on March 31.  Give these lads a listen and welcome back to the insane indie folk sound of the 60s.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up is the amazing sound of Toronto’s Kendal Thompson on the hilarious spoof video “NOT UR GIRL.”  Laugh with her at the video, but listen to the lyrics.  Enjoy this simply incredible artist.

Our next video is for all you hard rock fans.  It’s the latest from the incomparable Cold Kingdom, which we introduced you to last May.  The video is chock-full of live footage.  We think you will all have a “Desire” to follow and love this band.

Continuing in that power female fronted rock vein, we bring you Ace of Wands, which we last heard from in January 2019.  Their latest is further proof of their “Feminine Values.”  We think they are simply amazing.

Our next artist is an outspoken mental health activist as well as an incredible songwriter and visual artist.  Check out Sarah P.’s latest, “Athena” for some ethereal breath of fresh air.

In our final video this week, Jack Broadbent gives us an Americana treat as he travels along Route 66.  The cinematography is worthy of the outstanding lyrical content, and we will be watching “If” on repeat.

 

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

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 2)

We hope you all remembered to turn your clocks ahead yesterday.  We’ve got some great new singles and music videos to start off your work week.  We are so humbled to be able to share these amazing artists with you.  Grab your coffee and let’s get started.

NEW SINGLES

Blue Élan Records has done it again.  The increasingly popular indie music label has brought back another of our favorite bands with the return of Soul Asylum.  Their first single from their forthcoming EP is called “Social Butterfly” and it has all the elements that made the band’s past hits like “Runaway Train” such timeless classics.

Our next single is a future alt pop classic from the effervescent mind of Emmrose, who we introduced to you last October.  Her voice is unmistakable and her songwriting is top notch.  We love her new single “Take me With You,” and think you will too.

Our third single is actually a pair of songs from Finnish band The Holy.  We love their take on rock music, with lyrics that have definite substance and a beat that will keep you interested in the entire song.  Check out “Twilight of the Idiots” and “No Trial in the Dark.”

Next up is a true folk rock protest song.  The subject matter is the lack of gun control and how it is impacting our kids and the world in general.  Check out Charlie and the Rays and their latest, “There Goes my Baby.”

https://soundcloud.com/charlieandtherays/there-goes-my-baby-1

Our final single this week is from relative newcomers  Perfect Blue.  Their latest single has them “Runnin’ From the Hills.”  We hope they continue making great music.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We kick off this week’s videos with the latest from the British band Cold in July.  “Catalyst for Recovery” is a powerful song with an equally powerful visual.  Let us know what you think.

We haven’t featured a country tune in a while and we have the perfect one to share with you today.  “Lonely Bones,” the latest from songstress Sonja Midtune, is lovely in every way.  This one will get your feet moving while you two-step around the dance floor.  Check it out and fall in love with her immense talent.

While we’re in a country mood, check out the latest from Blue Élan Records’ artist Chelsea Williams.  We love everything about “Red Flag” and are so thankful that she continues to churn out incredible music.

Last week we shared the amazing single “Flowers” from future superstar Dani Le Rose.  If you loved the single, you will love the video even more.

We close out this week’s edition with the perfect segue to Spring Break.  Here is the first single/video from American Studies, a remake of the classic tune, “Panama City Blues.”  Enjoy your week.

 

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

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 1)

Did you miss us?  Things have finally settled down.  I am in the process of being promoted to Shift Manager at Pizza Hut, which has allowed me to quit my job at Sam’s Club and have a less hectic life.  I’m still  working a lot of hours, but have regular days off and will (normally) get off earlier.  As a result, we should be able to get back to the business of promoting indie music here on Indie Voice Blog.  We are very happy to be back.

Let’s kick off our first Monday Mashup of 2020 with some great new songs and videos.  Here we go.

NEW PLATFORM FOR INDIE ARTISTS

A revolutionary new music platform has launched, enabling artists to take control of their careers.  Beatchain’s premium services help musicians share their talent, connect with fans, and earn money from their music, without having to share profits and creative control with industry middlemen.

Though there are many tools in the market providing services to musicians, they tend to be expensive and limited to a single capability, for example, handling just distribution, websites, email lists or social media management. Beatchain believes artists need all of these capabilities together in one platform. The market has clearly indicated that Beatchain is resonating. Over 40,000 artists have already taken their first steps towards independence by signing up to the Beatchain platform.

“Too many artists are seeing music streaming as a talent show where they upload one song to Spotify with zero promotion, and suddenly they’re being signed to a label or played on the radio,” said Ben Mendoza, Beatchain CEO. “Unfortunately that’s not how the music industry works in the streaming era. To get heard above the noise, you need the complete set of tools to grow and engage your fanbase, get them hyped for your new release, and then direct them again and again to your music, your shows and your merchandise.  The unique thing about Beatchain is that you can do all this with one platform, without the artist needing to become an expert marketer or music promoter.”

Beatchain offers three pricing levels – a free Basic Plan, a Premium Plan for $14.99 and a “Superstar” Plan for $19.99. The platform’s wide array of tools remove the need for artists to subscribe separately to a number of other services, which can add up to a significant monthly investment, especially for artists just starting out.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the unique sound of Stefan T.  He composed this guitar instrumental and then enlisted an old high school friend to write lyrics for it.  He incorporated a hip hop beat underneath the guitar to give it that intriguing sound.  Check out “One.”

https://soundcloud.com/stefantofficial/one

Next up is the amazing vibe of Dani Le Rose with her latest single “Flowers” from her upcoming self-titled EP, which will be released on Friday.  We are totally in love with her and can’t wait to hear the rest of the EP.

Our third single has a similar “hot” vibe with the haunting sound of British songstress Actrese.  We likewise love her groove and think that “Lola” will be a huge hit.  What do you think?

Our next single has a gospel/pop feel and an equally incredible vocal zzsound from A Blake.  Check out “Witness” and we think you’ll be a believer.

Our final single is from a future superstar that deserves as much airplay as Harry Styles.  Check out “Find Me” from LA’s Matt Hansen – we think you’ll go out of your way to catch his live act.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

There are few things we love more than new music from multi-LA Music Critic Award winners The Spider Accomplice.  Their latest, “Enough,” is definitely one of their finest accomplishments to date, and we are so proud to share it with you.  Get ready to rock your socks off!

Next up is the new video from Blue Élan Records artist Lisa Lambe, formerly of the band Celtic Women.  Her sound is reminiscent of Stevie Nicks, and we are intrigued by “Hunter’s Moon.”  This one is a true keeper.

Our third video is the perfect segue and features the incredible sound of Grizzly Coast.  We hope they stay around “Forever.”

Our next video is visually stimulating and worthy of multiple viewings.  Check out Kris Kelly and his song, “More.”

We close out this week’s edition with the latest from our friend and amazing singer-songwriter Andy Grammer.  We think everyone can relate to the lyrics of “Spotlight.”