Author: lamusiccritic@gmail.com

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2019: vol. 4

Happy Monday.  We’ve reached our final Monday Mashup for January, and we’ve got some special treats for you today, including premieres of new singles from Lindsey Compton and Illicit Ghost.  Let’s get this week off to a great start.

INDIE ARTISTS REIGN AT THE NAMM SHOW

Congrats to all the indie artists who performed during The NAMM Show last week.  Thanks for keeping us in the loop with your performances, your photos and your memories.  We loved living vicariously through your social media posts.

LINDSEY COMPTON DEBUTS NEW SINGLE

Budding superstar Lindsey Compton is dropping her new single, “Starstruck” today, and we have been chosen to premiere it here.  For those who don’t know, Compton is fast becoming a force of nature.  She is standing up for the rights of women and taking feminism to a whole new level.  She believes women should express anything they choose – and she does it with a ‘do everything for the art’ attitude that expresses all that she is:  sassy and witty, flirty and fun, inclusive and edgy, funky and above all else, fearless.

Starstruck

Click on the link above to check out the song.  With “Starstruck,” Compton manages to achieve pop bliss by bringing the sounds of Hole, Ariana Grande, and Lykke Li together.  The song starts off dark enough to make us believe she might be a grunge-era Queen, but by the time the chorus is repeating out it has become crystal clear that Compton is the new Princess of Pop.

ILLICIT GHOST DROPS FIRST SINGLE OF 2019

Brooklyn-based artist/producer/violinist Illicit Ghost also drops her latest single, “Parties by Myself,” today, a head-bobbing anti-social anthem, but beware, this one is quite explicit.  She combines a remarkably raw vocal performance, dirty bass, hip hop machine drums and ominous synths with her signature aggressive violin sound.  In her own words, “‘Parties by Myself’ is simply about not trying to fit in, not taking shit from anyone and doing what makes you happy,” says Illicit Ghost.  “I think the new year is perfect timing for this message.”  We couldn’t agree more.

The inspiration for the song came from an unlikely place. “I used to listen to Third Eye Blind’s ‘Semi-Charmed Life’ constantly when I was 12” explains Illicit Ghost.  “I had a Third Eye Blind cassette that I was not allowed to listen to because it was about sex and drugs.  But I loved that song so much that I got a small tape player and listened underneath my covers each night.  At the time I didn’t understand what it was about at all, but I liked the feeling I got from it.  I felt free. I wanted to make something that captured the same feeling.”  We think she accomplished her goal.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from Fort Frances, who we introduced to you back in December 2016 when we reviewed their album Alio.  Since then, they have been up to great things and their latest single is another masterpiece.  Check out “Double Take.”

Our next single comes from Montreal’s L.A. Foster, and is a beautiful and intimate song called “Honestly.”  We think it will soon become your own personal anthem.

Our third single is an upbeat fun tune called “Lonely Loving Me,” and comes to us via the UK’s Hockeysmith.  This one has the R&B and electronic pop sound to get your week off to a great start.

Next is the debut single from Denver based R&B band Waxcat.  Here is “Oceans.”

Our final single this week comes from the forthcoming album by Damon Mitchell, which will drop on March 2.  Here is the title track, and we think it is definitely worthy of a listen.  Can’t wait to hear the rest of the album.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Blue Élan Records artist The Vegabonds, who we reviewed January 18 upon their release of V.  This is one of the best cuts on the album, and we are proud to share “Best I Can” with you.

Our next video comes from recent LA Music Critic Awards winner Jordan Siwek.  It is a heart-wrenching and touching video shot in New York City that perfectly captures the essence of his song “Lover and a Giver.”  Break out the tissues.

Video number three is the latest from Valerio Lysander, who we reviewed last August.  “Little People” is inspired by the 1st movement of Mozart’s Sonata in F major, K. 332, and should raise your cultural awareness for the week.  Enjoy the beauty of this video.

Our next video is about coming to terms with who you are, and features the soulful voice of Aaron Sibley.  Check out this powerful video for his song, “Falling Through.”

We close out this week with the amazing sound of We Three, who we reviewed last week.  They have been on a tear ever since they competed on America’s Got Talent, and this video shows why.  Check out their fans lip-syncing the band’s song “Your Lifeline.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Live Concerts Reviews Women in Entertainment

Ska reigns at the Wilma with Bikini Trill, MEST and Reel Big Fish

Photo courtesy of Chelle-S Imaging.

If there was any doubt that ska music is still popular, it was promptly erased by the size of the crowd at Missoula, Montana’s The Wilma for the latest visit from Reel Big Fish and their opening acts, Bikini Trill and MEST.  Thanks to Logjam Presents, the cold northwest had a taste of the blazing California sun with the energy presented by these three bands.

We recently reviewed Life Sucks . . . Let’s Dance, the brand new album from Reel Big Fish, their first new album in six years.  Our dear friend John Avila, who was the bassist for Oingo Boingo, introduced us to the band when we toured his studio a few years back.  He had produced Why do They Rock so Hard?, which earned a Gold Record.  Despite knowing that they had to be good, we were unprepared for the ridiculous amount of energy they emanate from stage.  Thanks to Mike Cubillos of Earshot Media for securing All Access passes for us to meet them and enjoy the concert, and to Tom Ames, the tour manager for Reel Big Fish for being such an excellent host.

The first band to take the stage was Los Angeles trio Bikini Trill, who bear a striking resemblance to the sound of No Doubt.  The band mixes electronic percussive tracks to back the guitar/bass work of Tony and Roach, which perfectly support the soaring vocals of LJ.  While not technically a ska band, their brand of surf and indie rock and hip-hop meshed perfectly with the bands that followed.

Bikini Trill was highly energetic and got the audience involved from the first song.  They kept them involved with a set filled with great songs, of which weed seemed to be the featured subject.

Next up was MEST, featuring the amazing guitar and lead vocals of Tony Lovato.  MEST has been on our radar for awhile.  We first reviewed them back in December 2017, when Lovato released an acoustic album of the band’s tunes called Broken Down II.  That release earned him and the band an LA Music Critic Award for Best Folk Band for the second half of 2017.

MEST is from Chicago, where they released several records for Maverick Records before disbanding in 2006.  Lovato resurrected the band in 2013 with the release of Not What You Expected, followed by his pair of acoustic albums, Broken Down I and II.  While their sound is more punk than ska, they still have enough of that ska feel to make them the perfect opening band for Reel Big Fish.

It was obvious from their first song that the audience was familiar with their songs, and loved their energy.  They even played “2000 Miles” on the spot when a fan requested it.  Their music is highly contagious, and speaks out against addictions and the oft-times unfairness of life.  The harmonies were incredible and sweet, while the drums and bass set the perfect foundation for the band’s sound.  They truly brought it on two of their most powerful songs:  “Jaded (These Years)” and “Mother’s Prayer.”

Towards the end of their set we went down to the green room where we had the chance to meet the members of Reel Big Fish and spend some time talking to them before they took the stage.  They were even kind enough to sign our tour poster.

Led by the stellar vocals and guitar of Aaron Barrett, the amazing horns of Billy Kottage (trombone), John Christianson (Johnny Christmas) (trumpet) and Matt Appleton (saxophone) and the perfect rhythm section of Ed Smokey Beach (drums) and Derek Gibbs (bass), Reel Big Fish is the real deal.

Reel Big Fish kicked off their set with an amazing ska cover of the 80s megahit “Take on Me.”  All three members of the horn section contributed backing vocals, and created incredible harmonies with Barrett.  There was such amazing chemistry on stage that it whipped the crowd into a frenzy.  If you could harness that energy we would be able to power the world.  The crowd especially loved the title track to the new album, and were jumping for joy at every song they played, which covered their 20 years as a band.

If you ever have the chance to see them perform in concert, we highly recommend you take the opportunity.  You will be so glad you did.  We can’t wait for the next time they come to town.

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Reviews Women in Entertainment

Rachel Arianna brings hope and awareness in the message of ‘We Become’

photo courtesy of Catherine Fiehn.

Rachel Arianna is not your typical teenager.  At the tender age of 15, she is already a gifted songwriter and performer as well as the founder of the “Words Can Soar” anti-bullying campaign.  This young lady from the New York City area  has worked tirelessly as a mental health, suicide prevention and anti-bullying youth activist and her mission is to raise awareness through music, the arts & activism.

Arianna is releasing her latest single, “We Become” on all media platforms today.  The song is not just about accepting who you are, but also about accepting the little mistakes that we make because “today is now, but we always have the future.”  The song will also be featured in the Lyme Light Journey documentary featuring Brooke Procida Ritchie (Studio P.C.I.)

The song is a powerful anthem of hope that needs to be shared with the world.  It is well-written and crafted in such a way that it should appeal to music lovers of all ages.  The message comes through loud and clear with a call to action that must be answered.

The single was recorded at Shorefire Recording Studios in Long Branch, New Jersey, was produced and co-written by two-time Grammy winner Marc Swersky (Hillary Duff, Joe Cocker) and was engineered by Joseph DeMaio (Bon Jovi).

When she was 10 years old, Arianna started her “Words Can Soar” anti-bullying initiative after learning that a teen in her hometown had committed suicide.  She expanded her program to reach many more venues and individuals as she witnessed the impact that bullying takes on suicide and mental illness.  She is also in favor of gun control after learning that they have become one of the leading causes of suicide in teens.

Arianna realized that healing begins through communication and that young adults need to talk to each other and hear each other’s stories.   With a desire to empower others, she began her mission to create change through the arts.  Using her poetry, she collaborated with songwriters Marc Swersky and Brielle Brown to write “We Become,” her second single with them, as a vehicle to inspire the communication young adults so desperately need and to make sure they know that no one is alone.

Rachel has been performing for 11 years and has appeared in national commercials, television, movies, and off-Broadway, while her voice has been used for voice-overs.  In 2017, she was presented with the State Honoree Award for Community Service for Middle Schoolers through the Prudential Spirit Awards, and was a two-time recipient of gold medals from the Presidential Awards.  She  has been invited to leadership conferences, won the Clarence F. Heimann Award and the Halaby Award, as well as the LA Music Critic Award for Rising Star in 2018 and for Fan Favorite in 2017.

Arianna hopes to use her music to spread messages of kindness so that no one else will lose their lives to the horrible epidemics of bullying, suicide, mental health or guns.

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

Get it or forget it – The Empty Pockets, The Well Pennies, Sarra, Mozes and the Firstborn, The Fisherman and The Sea

Welcome to New Music Friday.  As promised, we have five artists that are all dropping new projects today, and four of them should be very familiar to readers of this column.  Enjoy these new tunes.

Artist Name:  The Empty Pockets

Album Name:  Tanglewoods

Label:  MT Pockets Music

Genre:  Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  The Grind; 2.  Deerfield; 3.  Asleep on the Subway; 4.  Wolfpack; 5.  Brand new Eyes; 6.  Fill it Up; 7.  Island Queen; 8.  Papergirl; 9.  Tanglewoods; 10.  Over

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We introduced this band to you back in September 2017, and knew then that they were special.  That first album we reviewed earned them an LA Music Critic Award nomination, and now The Empty Pockets are back with another album, their best to date.  It flows easily within the Americana, folk and country music genres, with spotless musicianship and incredible harmonies.  The songs are well crafted and the lyrics are amazing.  They are indie music’s answer to Lady Antebellum and Little Big Town, with a more folky sound.  There is not a weak track on this album, and we plan to listen to it again and again.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go Get this one today!

Artist Name:  The Well Pennies

Album Name:  Murmurations

Label:  Golden Bear Records

Genre:  Folk/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Ooh La La; 2.  On my Blue Sky; 3.  My Morning Star; 4.  The Wonderkind; 5.  If Anyone Breaks my Heart; 6.  Nobody Loves me Like You; 7.  Calliope; 8.  When I was the Ocean and you Were the Moon; 9.  December; 10.  The River; 11.  Wedding Song; 12.  If you Were Mine; 13.  The Starling

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We first met the dynamic duo of Bryan and Sarah Vanderpool a few years back shortly after they arrived in Los Angeles from Boston.  They were one of the amazing artists that performed monthly as part of the Blue ‘n Green showcases created by Mikal Blue and Angelique Sheppard and David Garner of Green Roots Productions.  We have been friends ever since and we are so happy to review their latest offering.  This one hits the ground running with a breezy folk/pop sound that is truly radio friendly and deserves maximum rotations on everything from AAA and Americana to Top 40 and College radio stations.  It is also perfect for placement opportunities in television and film.  You will be singing along to these songs in no time at all, especially the first track, “Ooh La La,” among others.  The album closes with the sweeping instrumental “The Starling,” which gives the album its name.  It would be perfect for placement in wildlife documentaries.

Recommendation:  Don’t think about it, just Get it today!

Artist Name:  Sarra

Album Name:  Sarra

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Invitation; 2.  Bloom; 3.  Your Name; 4.  The Saint; 5.  The First Time; 6.  Invisible; 7.  Beautiful Disaster; 8.  The Fall; 9.  Going Crazy; 10.  Kerosene; 11.  Confession; 12.  Natural; 13.  Reprise

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We first introduced you to Sarra last August when we featured her single “Kerosene” in our Ten Great Singles article in September.  We also featured her single “Your Name” in our Monday Mashup column in November, which garnered her an LA Music Critic Award nomination for “Rising Star.”  We are so proud to be able to review her debut album, which has exceeded even our highest expectations, from the dreamy “Invitation” to the jazzy smoothness of “Secrets” and “The Saint.”   You can’t go wrong with this one, and will find yourself listening from start to finish, again and again.  These songs are radio friendly and perfect for placement in film and television.  We guarantee this young lady will soon become a household name.

Recommendation:   This one is going to become one of your favorites, so run out and Get it right now!

Artist Name:  Mozes and the Firstborn

Album Name:  Dadcore

Label:  Burger Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  d; 2.  Dadcore (ft together PANGEA); 3.  a; 4.  If I; 5.  Baldy; 6.  d; 7.  Sad Supermarket Song; 8.  Fly Out I; 9.  Blow Up; 10.  c; 11.  Hello; 12.  o; 13.  Scotch Tape/Stick With you (ft Kelsey Reckling); 14.  We’re all Saints; 15.  r; 16.  Amen; 17.  c; 18.  Fly Out II

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  This is the only artist on today’s Get it or Forget it that we are unfamiliar with, that is before listening to this intriguing mix of grunge, shoegaze, power pop and indie rock.  This marks their third full-length album since signing with California based Burger Records.  They are currently on tour in the US in support of this album, and so far have released a pair of singles, “If I” and “Sad Supermarket Song.”  This band would be popular on college campuses world-wide, and could easily become a staple on college radio.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  The Fisherman & The Sea

Album Name:  The Hurt & The Humour

Label:  Neck of the Woods Records

Genre:  Indie Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Hurry; 2.  Stuck With a Rhyme; 3.  The Fairytale Waltz; 4.  Beggar Princess; 5.  The Undertaker; 6.  A Song for the Hills; 7.  Skinny Dip; 8.  Ugly; 9.  The Bear; 10.  Homesick; 11.  Life in the Service of Others

Publicist:  Neck of the Woods Records

Review:  This band is no stranger to our blog, as we have reviewed all three of their previous EPs:  Beggar Princess in November 2017, Stuck With a Rhyme in January 2018 and I Can’t Alone in August 2018.  They have also accumulated two nominations and one win in the LA Music Critic Awards, and took #5 on our list of Best International EPs of 2017 for Beggar Princess.  Needless to say, our expectations for their debut full-length album were pretty high, and they blew them out of the water.  This is not just a collection of previously released material, as only four of these songs were included on the three previous EPs.  This is a fresh look at those great songs and seven new ones, and we are as happy as a clam, especially with the first single, “The Fairytale Waltz.”  We are definitely going to put this one on repeat, because every track is worthy of multiple listens and likes.  Take our advice, this is one of the best international bands we have ever heard.

Recommendation:  If you only buy one international album in 2019, this one should be it.  Go Get it.  Now!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Orkesta Mendoza, Regular of the Obscene, Beauty in Chaos, Bahuki, After-Death Plan

Happy Thursday.  It’s the first day of the 2019 Winter NAMM Show, and we wish the best to all of our friends and colleagues who are enjoying the show in beautiful Anaheim, California.  Back here in Montana, we’re heading off for our first volunteer shift for this year’s Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, which opens February 15.  Tomorrow we will be reviewing five albums that drop for New Music Friday, including four of our favorite artists – International phenoms The Fisherman & The Sea, as well as American favorites The Well Pennies and LA Music Critic Award nominees The Empty Pockets and Sarra.  In the meantime, here are five more reviews to check out.

Artist Name:  Orkesta Mendoza

Album Name:  La Caminadora

Label:  Cosmica

Genre:  Latin

Track Listing:  1.  La Banda (Llego la Banda) (ft Raul Marqués); 2.  La Caminadora (ft Quetzal Guerrero); 3.  Luna de Miel; 4.  Cuando yo la Conoci (Noche de Luna) (ft Brian López); 5.  Sombras; 6.  Tanger; 7.  Tusk

Publicist:  Cosmica Artists & Records

Review:  Orkesta Mendoza offers us a rare glimpse of true Latin music.  The album was recorded mostly live in studio giving us a raw look at the true nature of the band.  It incorporates their take on a variety of Latin songs, as well as a brilliant cover of Fleetwood Mac‘s “Tusk.”  They have also brought in some of the most famous Latin singers, including American Quetzal Guerrero, original band member Brian López and Portuguese Fado artist Raul Marqués.  The result is an album that delivers and reminds us why we love Latin music.

Recommendation:  If you love Latin, you should definitely Get this one.  For the rest of the world, we highly recommend you check them out – you just might like them.

Artist Name:  Regular of the Obscene

Album Name:  Tempora

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Ska Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Tempora; 2.  Light; 3.  This Ain’t a Test; 4.  Population Control; 5.  Are you Listening?; 6.  Makes no Sense; 7.  Young Rebels

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Ska/punk music is making a comeback on the indie music scene, led by bands like Reel Big Fish.  Add the intriguing sound of Regular of the Obscene to that list of amazing bands.  Their latest is a fun, horn-filled sound that is fun and full of energy.  After attending an amazing show last Sunday Night with Bikini Trill, MEST and Reel Big Fish, we had forgotten just how much energy this type of music creates, and Regular of the Obscene is just as much fun.  This one deserves to be put on repeat.  We guarantee it will have you up and jumping around to the beat.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  Beauty in Chaos

Album Name:  Finding Beauty in Chaos

Label:  33.3 Music Collective

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Road to Rosario (ft Michael Aston); 2.  Storm (ft Ashton Nyte); 3.  Man of Faith (ft Wayne Hussey & Simon Gallup); 4.  20th Century Boy (ft Al Jourgensen); 5.  Drifting Away (ft Robin Zander); 6.  Memory of Love (ft Johnny Indovina); 7.  Look Up (ft Tish Ciravolo); 8.  Un-Natural Disaster (ft dUg Pinnick & Ice T); 9.  The Long Goodbye (ft Wayne Hussey); 10.  Beauty Lies Within (ft Johnny Indovina); 11.  Bloodless and Fragile (ft Ashton Nyte); 12.  I Will Follow You (ft Evi Vine); 13.  Heliotrope (ft Betsy Martin); 14.  Finding Beauty in Chaos (ft Ashton Nye)

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  Beauty in Chaos is a collaborative effort led by world-famous guitarist and President of Schecter Guitar Research Michael Ciravolo, with a host of featured artists, including Ciravolo’s wife Tish (Stun Gun), founder of Daisy Rock Guitars, Wayne Hussey (The Mission), Simon Gallup (The Cure), Ashton Nyte (The Awakening, MGT), Robin Zander (Cheap Trick), Al Jourgensen (Ministry), Pete Parada (The Offspring), dUg Pinnick (Kings X), ICE-T (Body Count), Michael Aston (Gene Loves Jezebel), Michael Anthony (Van Halen), Dirk Doucette (Gene Loves Jezebel), Pando (A Flock of Seagulls), Evi Vine (Evi Vine), Betsy Martin (Caterwaul / Purr Machine), Marc Danzeisen (The Riverdogs), Kevin Kipnis (Purr Machine / Kommunity FK), Rudy Matchinga (Red Scare), and Johnny Indovina (Human Drama).  This is indie rock at its finest, with hints of the best classic rock has to offer.  There is something for everyone here, and we bet you’ll be putting this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one.  If you’re lucky enough to be at NAMM, stop by the Schecter Guitar booth and tell Michael how much you love this album.

Artist Name:  Bahuki

Album Name:  Tell it to the Worms

Label:  MeMi Music

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Potion; 2.  Claret; 3.  Right Now; 4.  Lay me Down; 5.  Over You; 6.  Sun; 7.  About Her; 8.  Musikmakers; 9.  Shore; 10.  Shotgun; 11.  City Scape; 12.  Tell it to the Worms

Publicist:  MeMi Music

Review:  Bahuki is a breath of fresh air in the sometimes crowded indie pop scene.  Their songs are extremely radio friendly and deserve to be heard on your radio dial.  They are reminiscent of such groups as Maroon 5 and The Killers and could easily make a mark in both Top 40 and college radio.  These songs would also work well as placements in film and television.  The album hits the ground running with “Potion” and never lets up.  The work of award-winning producer and engineer Manfred Faust (The Killers) is quite evident and further pushes the band into the limelight.

Recommendation:  Run and Get this one.  Now!

Artist Name:  After-Death Plan

Album Name:  Psycho Social Sexual

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Psycho Social Sexual; 2.  Walking; 3.  You Play Adult; 4.  Killed in Days; 5.  Neil Harvey; 6.  Starlight; 7.  Digging in the Fire; 8.  Mixing Chemicals; 9.  Sinner; 10.  Emma Nation; 11.  In the Garden

Publicist:  Zero Promotion

Review:  Lizard McGee and his amazing band Earwig have brought us some great music over the years, and McGee has recently launched his own PR company on top of that.  He has introduced us to his client, and we are in love at first listen.  With lead vocals that remind us of Gwen Stefani, and an overall sound that is more akin to Earwig, After-Death Plan is primed for an all-out assault on the indie music scene.   This is music that keeps you interested with the awesome guitar, the driving drums and those amazing vocals, and capped off with extremely well-written and intelligent lyrics that keep you thinking as you listen.   They also incorporate a lot of variations into their rock sound, which has also been referred to as “Gothic Rock.”  We just call it good.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one if you like your rock music to have some meat.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Klara Zubonja, We Three, Sarah P, Mike Dillon, Little Silver Hearts

Happy Hump Day!  Working our way to another New Music Friday with five more reviews for you today.  Enjoy these intriguing and eclectic artists.

Artist Name:  Klara Zubonja

Album Name:  Eye to Eye

Label:  Marshmallow Pavement Records

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Nothing Like Ever Before; 2.  The Winds of Life; 3.  Float Away; 4.  Did I say we Were Something; 5.  Have you Felt Like This Before; 6.  One for you and I

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Using a sweet jazzy musical background, the voice of Klara Zubonja soars to the stratosphere on her latest offering, Eye to Eye.  We introduced you to this amazing artist last month in our Ten Amazing Videos article, which featured her video for “The Winds of Life.”  Every track on this six-song EP is breathtaking, and we love her creative genius as demonstrated in every aspect of her music, including the stunning cinematography in her music video.  This artist is primed to invade The States, and we can’t wait until she does.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  We Three

Album Name:  We Three

Label:  Palawan Productions

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1,  Lifeline; 2.  Timeless; 3.  Hold On; 4.  Heaven’s Not Too Far; 5.  So They Say; 6.  Makeup; 7.  Fall for You; 8.  Running; 9.  Sweater Weather; 10.  Testify; 11.  Paradise; 12.  Fairytale; 13.  Heaven’s Not Too Far (radio edit)

Publicist:  Effectively Immediately PR

Review:  We Three came to national attention when they competed on America’s Got Talent and made it to the semi-final round.  They performed four of the songs on their debut release during the competition, and released “Heaven’s Not Too Far” as their first single and “Lifeline” as their second.  As always, harmonies are king for these siblings from Oregon, and they sound heavenly.  Their sound is pure radio-friendly bliss, and we would not be surprised to see them as permanent additions to Top 40 radio.  Their music would also be great for Radio Disney, and for placement opportunities in television and film.  They have it all, and like their song says, their music will remain “Timeless.”  There is not a weak track on this album, and we can’t wait to hear it again and again.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Sarah P.

Album Name:  Maenads

Label:  EraseRestart

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Sappho’s Leap; 2.  Mneme; 3.  Lotus Eaters; 4.  Cybele’s Dream; 5.  Maenads

Publicist:  Hellbig Music

Review:  Sarah P. is a singer-songwriter/activist based in Berlin who believes in feminine power, and it shows in this masterful five-song EP.  In addition to her amazing songwriting and vocals, she is also very hands-on in crafting the videos for her songs.  She has just completed the video for “Lotus Eaters,” which follows her video for “Mneme.”  The power of her songs truly comes through in those videos, and we strongly encourage you to check her out on YouTube.  In the meantime, enjoy the power of the feminine mystique through her songs.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you Get this one.

Artist Name:  Mike Dillon & The MalletMen

Album Name:  Bonobo Bonobo

Label:  Royal Potato Family

Genre:  Acid Jazz/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bonobo; 2.  Shit Talker; 3.  Guns God & Pussy; 4.  Air B n B in Arabi; 5.  Big Ass Fish; 6.  Strung out Again; 7.  Don’t Want to Know Your Name; 8.  Old School Jam 23; 9.  Mr. Gatekeeper; 10.  Old Men on Cocaine; 11.  I Don’t Like Selfies; 12.  Orange Julius Caesar; 13.  Omar

Publicist:  Royal Potato Family

Review:  Mike Dillon does to jazz music what Henry Rollins did to rock and Lenny Bruce did to stand up comedy.  His music is well done indeed, but his rants are extremely explicit and not appropriate for many.  In many ways, this is a white man’s attempt to do rap music over intriguing beats, but his rants don’t have the poetic appeal of most rap artists.  Despite the beautiful musical background, we think we’ll pass on the rants.

Recommendation:  If you can enjoy the music while ignoring the rants, then you might like this one.  Otherwise, just forget it.

Artist Name:  Little Silver Hearts

Album Name:  California

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana/Alt Country

Track Listing:  1.  Buena; 2.  Pain and Misery; 3.  California; 4.  Can’t Take no More; 5.  Sin City

Publicist:  Ed Donnelly

Review:  Los Angeles has given birth to quite a few great Americana bands, and Little Silver Hearts are definitely in that bunch.  They were nominated for LA Music Critic Awards for Best CD (Group) and Best Americana/Country Artist/Band back in 2016, and have been busy playing out since then.  We welcome their return to recorded music with the release of the five-song California EP, and will continue to enjoy their alt country rocking Americana sound.  Grab a beer and a shot and put this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  This one is great for enjoying a round.  Check it out.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Norman Salant, Star Visitors, Zora Graves, Harrison Country, Crooked Ghost

Amazing indie projects just keep showing up in our mailbox, and we love sharing them with you.  Here are five more album reviews for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Norman Salant

Album Name:  Always All Around You

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  At the End of the World; 2.  The World’s Greatest Lover; 3.  Feels Like Rain; 4.  Grace (Love Song 25); 5.  Mr. War (Love Song 49); 6.  The Whole Wide World; 7.  The Civil War; 8.  Glory; 9.  Point Reyes; 10.  Carried Away

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  Norman Salant is a singer-songwriter and saxophonist from New York City, with a sound somewhere between Bruce Cockburn and Bruce Hornsby.  He crafts meaty lyrics that require several listens to fully appreciate, while at the same time creating a sound that is instantly comfortable and appealing.  He plays both alto and tenor sax and does so with amazing precision and expertise.  His songs would be excellent placement material for music supervisors, and provide the perfect relaxing soundtrack for day to day living.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth a place in your musical library.

Artist Name:  Star Visitors

Album Name:  Star Visitors (Special Edition)

Label:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Genre:  Psychedelic Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Creature in my Mind; 2.  The Imaginary Part; 3.  Stone Rainbow; 4.  Mercury Dancing; 5.  Creature in my Mind (remix); 6.  The Imaginary Part (remix); 7.  Stone Rainbow (remix); 8.  Mercury Dancing (remix)

Publicist:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Review:  This is the debut album from this Belgium-based band, and it is serious throwback to the American musical sound of 60s bands like The Doors.  It is in your face rock that will be instantly memorable, and should appeal to most lovers of classic rock.  There are only four songs, but there are two versions of each song, so there is definitely enough to evaluate the band’s potential.  We think they have a good chance to cut through the pack and make an impact on the indie music scene.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy checking out.

Artist Name:  Zora Graves

Album Name:  Reef Zero

Label:  Septarian Records

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Sea of Nothing; 2.  Vapor Brain; 3.  Cold Color; 4.  Rings and Spiral; 5.  Castaway’s Song; 6.  Reef Dreamz; 7.  Jet Bubbles; 8.  I Seek; 9.  Slime Palace; 10.  The Lobster’s Bargain; 11.  On the Reef

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Last year we reviewed the debut album of Squid Cult, of which Zora Graves is a member, and a big reason for their unique sound.  Now we get the chance to review her solo release, and it is every bit as amazing as her band’s release.  Like Squid Cult, she mixes a variety of genres to create her own alt pop blend, and the concept album works.  This is music that is radio friendly, and would also make great placements in television and film.  Her voice is unique enough as is the sound, part jazz and  funk, and totally pop.  We would love to hear this music performed live, as we can imagine the amazing chemistry and energy that would emanate from the stage.  We believe both Graves and her band have a bright future ahead.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Harrison Country

Album Name:  Climate Change

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana/Pop Country

Track Listing:  1.  Men in the House; 2.  When the Geese Fly; 3.  Climate Change; 4.  Pick Your Poison; 5.  Shadow Games; 6.  Laugh Again; 7.  Like a Ghost; 8.  Chicken Fighting Girls; 9.  Fantasy League; 10.  Can’t Seem to get Away; 11.  Gone (The Vacation Song); 12.  When the Fat Lady Sings

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Familial harmonies are one of the things we love best.  The Harrison family aka Harrison Country have delivered a debut album that not only features heavenly sibling harmonies but also harmonies from the entire family that are out of this world.  You will find traces of blues, funk, pop and country in their mix, making their music instantly memorable.  Don, Karen, Jennie and Amy Harrison, along with the amazing musicianship and arrangements of Bryan Ewald and Alexandra White, bring us one of our favorite debuts this year, and will remain as one of the best family bands we have ever reviewed.  We like this one from start to finish.

Recommendation:  Don’t miss the chance to Get this one.  It will soon become a favorite.

Artist Name:  Crooked Ghost

Album Name:  Skeleton House

Label:  Palomino Records

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Body in Stars; 2.  Sleepwalker; 3.  Only Nightmares; 4.  Catch Fire; 5.  Witch Heart; 6.  Black Cat; 7.  Roadkill; 8.  Skeleton House

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  The sophomore release from Crooked Ghost is ethereal rock that you can feel all the way to the core of your being.  Their first single, “Sleepwalker,” brings back memories of such bands as The Cure and early R.E.M., and sets this indie band apart from its peers with songs that are radio friendly and ready for mainstream appeal.  In addition to the digital release, the band is releasing the album on vinyl via Bandcamp next month.  This one is worthy of your attention, and we strongly encourage you to buy it for your vinyl collection once it is released.

Recommendation:  Get. This. One.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 3

Happy Martin Luther King Day!  We had a blast last night at The Wilma in Missoula, where we were introduced to an LA band called Bikini Trill who was opening for Reel Big Fish and Tony Lovato and MEST.  We recently reviewed Reel Big Fish’s new album, and had previously reviewed MEST back in December 2017.   MEST also won the LA Music Critic Award for Best Folk Band for that album for the second half of 2017.  We will have the full review of last night’s concert soon.  In the meantime, here are five new singles and music videos from the indie world.

JACK TEMPCHIN ELECTED TO SONGWRITERS HALL OF FAME

Blue Élan Records artist Jack Tempchin is part of the Class of 2019 and will be inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame on June 13 in New York City.  He wrote a plethora of songs that we’ve all danced and sung along to, including the Eagles’ “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” “Tequila Sunrise,” and “Already Gone,” Glenn Frey’s “The One You Love,” “Smuggler’s Blues,” “You Belong To The City” and “Sexy Girl,” and Johnny Rivers‘ “Slow Dancing.”

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from an amazing 15-year old future superstar named Bella Rios.  She received a nomination in the recent LA Music Critic Awards for Rising Star, and we guarantee this artist is on her way to the top of the charts.  Check out her latest single, “Under the Waves.”

Our second single is from another LA Music Critic Awards winner, Rod Melancon, who is a member of the Blue Élan Records family.  His latest song, “Goin’ Out West,” is a harder rocking Americana song that he usually does, and we totally dig it.

Our next single is likewise from a multiple LA Music Critic Award winner, who we hope will perform in our next Winners Showcase.  We have followed the career of Curtis Peoples for many years, and his latest single, “Tidal Wave,” is one of his best, and features the beautiful vocals of Holy Wars.  Let us know what you think.

Our fourth single is from another member of the Blue Élan Records family, who has recently rebranded herself and now goes by the name of Car Astor.  This one will get you up and dancing into the new week.  Check out “Don’t Stop, Don’t Speak.”

Our final single today is from another multiple LA Music Critic Award winning duo, Lovers & Poets.  We are also providing the bitmoji video they did for their latest offering, “Here and Now.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is a beautifully made lyric video for “Do What you Want,” the latest from the phenomenally talented Jess McAvoy.  Check this one out.

We don’t often post cover videos, but this one is so good that we had to share and features Fuel on Fire, one of the rising young pop bands from Nashville.  Check out their cover of U2‘s monster hit, “With or Without You, featuring the amazing children’s choir at Homer Pittard Campus School.  We’ll have a review of their cover album shortly.

Our third video is from steampunk-influenced singer-songwriter Elyssa Vulpes for her single “Front Line.”  We think this one could become an anthem for so many causes.

Our next video is from the collaborative efforts of the Americana Kitchen Band.  Check out this video for their single “All Dressed Up (and Nowhere to Go).”  This one will give you the strength to make it through the new week.

We close out this week with the latest video from Blues/Rock superstar guitarist Eric McFadden, “While You Was Gone.”  This one will surely give you a head start on the next great weekend.  Have a great week and we’ll see soon.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Izzy Miller, A Swarm of the Sun, Hedvig Mollestad Trio, The Vegabonds, Alice Wallace

Happy Friday.  This weekend we will learn who will compete in the Super Bowl.  Will it be New Orleans or LA for the NFC or New England of Kansas City for the AFC?  While we wait, let’s check out these great new releases, including new ones from the legendary band The Vegabonds and four-time LA Music Critic Award winner Alice Wallace.  Let’s get going.

Artist Name:  Izzy Miller

Album Name:  Precipice

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Burnin’ Bright; 2.  So it Goes; 3.  The Cure; 4.  Another Drink or Two

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Precipice is the follow-up to Izzy Miller’s first EP, American Times, which was released in 2017, and spawned a stay at the #1 position on iTunes and Amazon.  This new four-track EP is equally amazing, with a down-home country feel to the Americana vibe.  The fourth track was chosen as the first single, but honestly, it could have been any of them.  “Another Drink or Two” is the most country track, and would make sense to release it to country radio.  All four tracks are great and we think any of them would be appropriate for radio airplay.

Recommendation:  Give this one a spin!

Artist Name:  A Swarm of the Sun

Album Name:  The Woods

Label:  Version Studio Records

Genre:  Post-rock

Track Listing:  1.  Blackout; 2.  The Woods; 3.  An Heir to the Throne

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  A Swarm of the Sun are further proof that some of the best music in today’s indie world is coming out of Sweden.  This is their first new music in four years since the release of the critically-acclaimed The Rifts.  This time around their sound is majestic, grand and sweeping, creating mental images in the incessant drum beat and the haunting soundscape.  Each track is 13 minutes long, and combined they create an auditory stream that will hold the listener from start to finish.  The first track is instrumental, while the other two tracks are haunting and spooky, with the perfect vocals to enhance that feeling of despair and darkness.  This is music that could easily be placed in television, movies and commercials.  If this is what we get from waiting four years, then it was certainly worth it.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Hedvig Mollestad Trio

Album Name:  Smells Funny

Label:  Rune Grammafon

Genre:  Rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Beastie, Beastie; 2.  First Thing to Pop is the Eye; 3.  Jurasek; 4.  Sugar Rush Mountain; 5.  Bewitched, Dwarfed and Defeathered; 6.  Lucidness

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We introduced you to this amazing band from Norway in our first Monday Mashup of 2019, and have been waiting to review their new EP ever since, which dropped today.  They caught our attention with that first single (“Bewitched, Dwarfed and Defeathered”), and we are here to say that the rest of the EP is just as great.  As we said when we introduced them, “This one has everything lovers of rock and metal desire, and will also appeal to acid jazz lovers as well.”

Recommendation:  If you love great rock instrumentals,  then definitely go Get this one.

Artist Name:  The Vegabonds

Album Name:  V

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Southern Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Partyin’ with Strangers; 2.  Generation of Happiness; 3.  I Ain’t Having it; 4.  When the Smoke Clears Up; 5.  Everything I Need; 6.  Best I Can; 7.  Traveling Man; 8.  Help is on the Way

Publicist:  MSO PR

Review:  We gave you a preview last Monday when we debuted their latest single, “Best I Can” in our Monday Mashup.  We also shared their music video for “Everything I Need” last month, as well as their first single, “I Ain’t Having It,” last October.  Needless to say, we are extremely happy to be able to review the entire album, which dropped today.  They have been one of the premier southern rock bands since their debut in 2009, and time has only improved their skills and expertise.  Their sound is extremely radio friendly, with every track single worthy.  In fact they have already released four singles, and we think they should release every single track.  Can’t wait to have the chance to see them perform live.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go Get this one TODAY!

Artist Name:  Alice Wallace

Album Name:  Into the Blue

Label:  Rebelle Road Records

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1.  The Lonely Talking; 2.  Santa Ana Winds; 3.  Elephants; 4.  The Blue; 5.  Desert Rose; 6.  When She Cries; 7.  Echo Canyon; 8.  The Same Old Song; 9.  Motorcycle Ride; 10.  Top of the World; 11.  For Califia

Publicist:  Devious Planet

Review:  Alice Wallace is a champion and it shows in everything she does.  We have loved her music since the first time we heard it, and have interviewed her twice in this Blog, including a recent feature this past Monday.  Her new album, the first release on fledgling label Rebelle Road Records, is her best yet, and is perfect from start to finish.  She shows her growth from a simple country sound to a more sophisticated Americana one on every track.  Her songs are radio friendly and we truly expect them to be huge hits on Americana and country stations, with cross-over potential to college radio.  With the release of Into the Blue, we can guarantee that Wallace’s career with continue to blossom, and we expect her to win a lot more LA Music Critic Awards, among others.

Recommendation:  Run and Get this one – she’s going places!

 

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – The Skelton Collective, Lavender Fields, Dee Miller Band, Billy Craig, Goalkeeper

Happy Thursday.  We are back with more great indie music for you to check out, with five new reviews from another eclectic group of indie musicians.   Here we go.

Artist Name:   The Skelton Collective

Album Name:   Choosing Happy

Label:   A&R Records

Genre:   Indie Pop

Track Listing:   1.  She; 2.  All I Wanna Be; 3.  Let the Good Times Roll; 4.  Waiting for the Sun; 5.  Miss P Falls in Love

Publicist:   The A&R Department

Review:   Australia gives us another amazing pop band in the form of The Skelton Collective, a family affair of multi-talented siblings with harmonies galore and a fun, positive take on pop.  All five songs are joyful and beautiful, starting with their first single, “She.”  They all deserve serious radio airplay and heavy consideration by music supervisors for placement opportunities, especially Disney.  This is the perfect music to use for your alarm clock, as it will set the mood for your day.  In addition, if you listen to it throughout the day, it will help keep you motivated to do your best.  Bottom line is “Let the Good Times Roll.”

Recommendation:   Definitely get this one!

Artist Name:   Lavender Fields

Album Name:   Gravitude

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Experimental/Electronic

Track Listing:   1.  Presence Dub (ft Jumble Dubs); 2.  Gravitude; 3.  Radugi

Publicist:   Effective Immediately PR

Review:   We introduced you to Lavender Fields when we reviewed her previous EP back in November, which earned her a nomination for the LA Music Critic Awards.  She’s back with another EP, and continues to use her music to make a statement about the close relationship between the various life forms.  She calls her brand of music “Lavendub.”  We just call it different.  Like we said before, her music is not for everyone, but it does raise the collective consciousness about conservation.  The title track also gives a glimpse of her brilliance with its lush soundscape and harmonies.

Recommendation:   Check it out if you like unique music.

Artist Name:   Dee Miller Band

Album Name:   Leopard Print Dress

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Blues

Track Listing:   1.  Hot and Sweaty (ft Toby Marshall); 2.  Strongest Weakness; 3.  Take it to the Limit (ft John Pinckaers and Toby Marshall); 4.  Leopard Print Dress (ft John Pinckaers, Toby Marshall and Paul Mayasich); 5.  Back in the Saddle (ft Toby Marshall, Steve Clarke and Kevin Nord); 6.  Last Two Dollars (ft John Pinckaers and Toby Marshall); 7.  I Sing the Blues (ft Steve Vonderharr); 8.  Midnight in Harlem (ft Tobby Marshall, Dylan Salfer, Steve Vonderharr and John Wright); 9.  Black Cat Bone (ft John Pinckaers); 10.  Steppin’ (ft John Pinckaers)

Publicist:   Blind Racoon

Review:   Dee Miller and her band bring new life to the blues with their funky blend, making their sound in The Blues Brothers‘ Chicago style.  The songs are well written and performed, especially the stirring covers of The Eagles‘ “Take it to the Limit” and Tedeschi Trucks Band‘s “Midnight in Harlem.”  The guest musicians bring the funk to every track, and make this a blues album you will want to hear again and again.  You can’t go wrong with this one.  We especially love “Take it to the Limit,” “Leopard Print Dress,” “Back in the Saddle,” the jazzy smoothness of “Last Two Dollars,” “I Sing the Blues,” “Midnight in Harlem,” and “Black Cat Bone.”

Recommendation:  This one is a keeper – go Get it now.

Artist Name:  Billy Craig

Album Name:  Sonic Tunesmith

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Country

Track Listing:  1.  Fade Away; 2.  Nowhere to Go; 3.  Don’t Waste Your Time; 4.  Supposed to Be; 5.  Turn Away; 6.  With You; 7.  Touched by an Angel; 8.  Something for Nothing; 9.  Frozen Heart; 10.  Summertime; 11.  Come on In

Publicist:  Eric Alper

Review:  Billy Craig is the touringguitarist for the resurrected classic rock band Brownsville Station (“Smokin’ in the Boys Room”), as well as a Nashville-based country songwriter.  He has recently released his fourth solo album in the more traditional alt country format.  He does not have the best voice, but it totally fits with the alt country style.  On the other hand, his guitar skills are amazing, and he finds the perfect way to convey his messages through his well-crafted songs.  If you liked the sound of Brownsville Station with a little Shooter Jennings thrown in, then this is the album for you.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Goalkeeper

Album Name:  Bad Times Don’t Last

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Sunshine; 2.  Chances; 3.  Lately; 4.  Left Lane; 5.  Nothing at All

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Goalkeeper hails from Philadelphia and has found an ingenious way to blend punk with a radio-friendly pop to create music that should appeal to most music lovers.  All five of these songs deserve serious industry attention and should be in heavy rotation on tastemaker stations like KCRW and NPR.  These songs could also easily become Top 40 hits, especially “Lately.”  Enjoy this one.

Recommendation:  Get it.