Category: Artists Worth Checking Out

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

Get it or forget it – Mantell, Whispering Sons, Elkka, Viva Death, Polly Panic

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving, and are surviving Black Friday.  Here are five more artists and releases to check out to keep you going through this stressful holiday shopping season.

Artist Name:  Mantell

Album Name:  Thirty-Two

Label:  Marshmallow Pavement Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Lulu; 2.  In the Sun; 3.  For Something Else; 4.  Read my Mind; 5.  The City

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  We do love our Australian indie artists, and Mantell is another one of them.  We featured their lead single, “Lulu,” in our Ten Great Singles of September article, and are very happy for the chance to review the entire EP.  We love their indie rock vibe, and think they would do quite well on American radio, especially on the college circuit.  The vocals are haunting and the accompaniment is spot on.  This one will get under your skin and never let go, so give in to the temptation and embrace it.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get it.

Artist Name:  Whispering Sons

Album Name:  Image

Label:  Cleopatra Records

Genre:  Post-punk

Track Listing:  1.  Stalemate; 2.  Got a Light; 3.  Alone; 4.  Skin; 5.  No Time; 6.  Fragments; 7.  Hollow; 8.  Waste; 9.  Dense; 10.  No Image

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  We have reviewed a lot of post-punk bands this year, and this is definitely one of the best.  Their music has a very new wave vibe with well-written lyrical content that brings these songs to life.  Best tracks include “Stalemate,” “Alone,” “Fragments,” “Hollow,” “Waste,” and “Dense.”  This one has a true Depeche Mode vibe, especially “Dense.”

Recommendation:  If you love post-punk and dark wave music, then this one is a must-have for your collection.

Artist Name:  Elkka

Album Name:  Full Circle

Label:  femme culture

Genre:  Dance/House

Track Listing:  1.  2000 and F_cked; 2.  We’re Here (Again); 3.  One; 4.  Talkin’

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  We introduced you to this artist back in July when we featured her single “Stay (warm edit)” in our Monday Mashup column.  Elkka is also a DJ in her native London and the founder of her own label, femme culture, which supports female artists.  This one will get you off the couch and on to the dance floor, as the rich electronic tones get you in the mood.

Recommendation:  If you love house and dance music, then definitely check this one out.

Artist Name:  Viva Death

Album Name:  Illuminate

Label:  Functional Equivalent Recordings

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Ready to Go; 2.  Trip; 3.  Sound the Alarm; 4.  Windows; 5.  Don’t Box me In; 6.  Two Hands; 7.  Seasons; 8.  Petitioning the Black Wall; 9.  New Terrors; 10.  Unclear; 11.  Storm; 12.  Slipping Away; 13.  Man in the Street; 14.  Damnatio Memoriae

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  This is the band’s first album in eight years, and founder and bassist Scott Shifflett (Face to Face) and producer Chad Blinman keep it rocking hard, just like it says on their first single, “Ready to Go.”  Shifflett and Blinman form the core of the band, which features a revolving cadre of collaborating musicians, including Shifflett’s brother Chris, the guitarist from The Foo Fighters.  Their music raises alt rock to an entirely new level, and do not fail to impress.  Their music is ripe for radio airplay and for placement consideration in television and film.  Best tracks include “Ready to Go,” “Trip,” “Sound the Alarm,” “Two Hands,” second single “New Terrors,” “Unclear,” “Storm,” “Slipping Away,” and “Man in the Street.”

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Polly Panic

Album Name:  Losing Form

Label:  Write Hook Records

Genre:  Cello Art Rock

Track Listing: 1.  Annie; 2.  Beggar Rose; 3.  Losing Form; 4.  Purpose; 5.  Precious; 6.  Hollows; 7.  The Sidepiece; 8.  To the Bone; 9.  Twisted Up; 10.  Shadow

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  Polly Panic is a dynamic celloist who is also part of the popular band Rasputina, and does for cello what Lindsay Sterling has done for violin.  This is her third album and first one in six years, and all we can say is “Welcome back.”  She reminds us of PJ Harvey and Tori Amos in her vocals, although with a slightly harder edge.  She shreds the cello like it was an electric guitar, and throws in a healthy dose of Janis Joplin attitude on top of that, especially on the first track, “Annie.”  Best tracks include “Annie,” the title track, “Precious,” “Hollows,” “To the Bone,” and “Shadow.”

Recommendation:  If you love rock music that is unique, then this is the album for you.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it (Christmas edition) – Mindi Abair and the Boneshakers, Paul Cardall, Redhead Express, The Humming Bards

Happy Thanksgiving.  As promised, here are four Christmas albums we received this year, and they are all amazing.  We hope this gets you in the proper mood for the holiday season.

Artist Name:   Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers

Album Name:   All I Got for Christmas is the Blues

Label:   Pretty Good for a Girl Records

Genre:   Christmas (Blues/Funk)

Track Listing:   1.  All I Got for Christmas is the Blues; 2.  I Can’t Wait for Christmas; 3.  Merry Christmas Baby; 4.  Christmas (Baby Please Come Home); 5.  The Best Part of Christmas; 6.  Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree; 7.  The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire); 8.  Run Run Rudolph; 9.  Christmas Fool

Publicist:   Blind Raccoon

Review:  Mindi Abair is a two-time Grammy-nominated saxophonist and vocalist who is a master of jazz, blues and funk.  On her first holiday album, she brings four originals and five re-imagined classics to get your holidays off to a bluesy and funky start.  She kicks things off with the original title track before reinventing her own 2004 tune, “I Can’t Wait for Christmas.”  The band then tackles the Charles Brown R&B standard “Merry Christmas Baby” before tackling and improving on the Phil Spector/Darlene Lee classic “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).”  Our favorite song is next with “The Best Part of Christmas,” a song she co-wrote with her old college friend and long-time collaborator, Matthew Hager from Halo Circus.  On “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” she gets to be both Brenda Lee and Boots Randolph as she gives the pop classic a modern bluesy sound.  You will not believe the amazing new arrangement the band gives to “The Christmas Song,” but we think it will easily become your favorite version.  She closes out this special Christmas gift with Chuck Berry‘s “Run Run Rudolph” before ending with a “back porch break down” on “Christmas Fool.”  This one is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Recommendation:   Don’t think twice.  Get this one for your holiday listening enjoyment.

Artist Name:   Paul Cardall

Album Name:   Christmas

Label:   Stone Angel Music

Genre:   Christmas (Classical)

Track Listing:   1,  Hard the Herald Angels Sing; 2.  In the Bleak Midwinter (ft Audrey Assad); 3.  O Come O Come Emmanuel; 4.  Jesus Once of Humble Birth; 5.  It Came Upon a Midnight Clear; 6.  Christmas Past; 7.  Joy to the World; 8.  O Holy Night (ft CeCe Winans); 9.  Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella; 10.  Once in Royal David’s City; 11.  Son of God (ft Patrice Tipoki); 12.  Away in a Manger; 13.  Silent Night

Publicist:   Morris Public Relations

Review:  Composer Paul Cardall brings us a traditional and classical approach to Christmas music, with his majestic and sweeping orchestral sound.  He also has three special guest vocalists in Grammy-winner CeCe Winans (“O Holy NIght”), Australian Broadway star Patrice Tipoki (“Son of God”) and award-winning singer-songwriter Audrey Assad (“In the Bleak Midwinter”).  With these group of songs, you can’t help getting into the Christmas spirit with a soundtrack that will be perfect for all your holiday parties and get-togethers.  Stand-out performances on “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “O Holy Night,” which are sure to become some of your favorite holiday songs.

Recommendation:  This is one of the best we’ve ever heard, and belongs in your holiday collection. Get it right away!

Before we review our final two albums, we wanted to share a couple of Christmas songs that we received this year.  First up is Cherrill Rae, who updates the classic pop song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” into a modern-day sweeping standard.

Our second single is from Charlie Milliken, who takes it from soulful to country with his beautifully written and performed “Season.”

Artist Name:  Redhead Express/PaperDolls Band

Album Name:  Christmastime

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Christmas (Country)

Track Listing:  1.  Away in a Manger; 2.  Carol Medley; 3.  God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen; 4.  Holidaze; 5.  Love is Christmas; 6.  Mary did you Know; 7.  O Holy Night

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The four sisters that encompass Redhead Express have made a name for themselves with their spectacular harmonies and brilliant musicianship, including guitar, violin, banjo and stand up bass.  On their first holiday album, they turn these well-known and loved Christmas songs into bluegrass/country classics.  They also bring a couple of new songs to the table to give us an even better holiday treat.  On “Carol Medley,” they add in the equally wonderful voices of their family to round out the sound before introducing the more pop/rock sound of their new project, the PaperDolls Band, on “God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen.”  They follow this up with the amazing original “Holidaze” and an uplifting bluegrass cover of Sara Bareilles‘ “Love is Christmas.”  They close out this brilliant collection with their holiday gift from last year, “Mary Did You Know,” and the classic “O Holy Night.”

Recommendation:  If you love harmonies and great music, then this is the holiday album for you.  Drop what you’re doing and Get it now!

Artist Name:  The Humming Bards

Album Name:  Holy Common Ground

Label:  JamCat Records

Genre:  Christmas (Pop/Rock)

Track Listing:  1.  Christmas in the Ordinary; 2.  December Song; 3.  Prayer for Everyone; 4.  Christmas Is; 5.  For Auld Lang Syne

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Multiple LA Music Critic Award winning and Blue Élan Records artist Cindy Alexander joins with country superstar songwriter Kevin Fisher to form this amazing new group.  What started out as a friendship and writing collaboration has blossomed into a special holiday EP featuring three new songs by the duo, as well as one by Fisher (“Christmas Is”) and the other by Alexander and her long time musical partner Dave Darling (“For Auld Lang Syne”).  The combination of their voices is nothing short of spectacular, and the chemistry is palpable.  This one will quickly become a treasured favorite, and deserves to be put on repeat.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – you simply must Get it and play it again and again.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Mark Winkler and Cheryl Bentyne, Chuter, Patiently Awaiting the Meteorite, Zsuzsika, Courchene/Mechlenburg

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving, and it’s busier than ever, as we try to review all the submissions before the end of the month.  Here are five more from around the globe.  Enjoy.

Artist Name:  Mark Winkler and Cheryl Bentyne

Album Name:  Eastern Standard Time

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Devil May Care; 2.  Rhode Island is Famous for You; 3.  Like Jazz; 4.  The Gentleman is a Dope; 5.  I Could get Used to This (Bumpin’); 6.  The Best is Yet to Come; 7.  Spring can Really Hang you up the Most; 8.  Walk on the Wild Side; 9.  You Smell so Good; 10.  Things are Swingin’; 11.  Ballad of  the Sad Young Men/Lies of Handsome Men

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  While much of the world knows Cheryl Bentyne as the “soaring soprano” of the multi-Grammy-winning Manhattan Transfer, this collaboration with singer/lyricist Mark Winkler is a gem for jazz lovers, as they bring to life some of our best loved standards, and a couple of Winkler originals as well.  The tracks was pulled from the song lists of East Coast jazz clubs of the late 50s and early 60s.  Although most of the songs are duets, each performer also does a pair of solo tunes (Winkler on “Rhode Island is Famous for You” and “I Could get Used to This (Bumpin’)”, while Bentyne gives us “The Gentleman is a Dope” and “Spring can Really Hang you up the Most” ), giving us one of the best pure jazz recordings of the year.

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, this is a no-brainer.  Get this one for your collection today!

Artist Name:  Chuter

Album Name:  Pendulum

Label:  self-released

Genre:  Shoegaze

Track Listing:  1.  Whim (ft Lizzy Maries); 2.  Shapeshift; 3.  Point on the Scale; 4.  Burn the Object Down

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Chuter is an artist from the UK who compares himself to thisquietarmy, among others.  It is only fitting then that we review his four-song EP, since we just reviewed thisquietarmy over the weekend.  While they share a shoegaze vibe, the music of thisquietarmy is more majestic and cinematic rock instrumental, while Chuter is more true to shoegaze, with dramatic vocals and well written lyrics that pay homage to his eerie and ethereal voice.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Patiently Awaiting the Meteorite

Album Name:  Canyon Diablo

Label:  Unda in Choc/Believe Digital

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Hit the Ground Running; 2.  Don’t lay Your Fate; 3.  Strange Intuition; 4.  Everything Under the Sun; 5.  Devil’s in my Car; 6.  Electrified; 7.  Keeping my Head Above the Water; 8.  All This Madness; 9.  Hello Hello; 10.  The Place

Publicist:  Last Tango Media

Review:  This band formed when The Grand Brothers collaborated with solo artist Dee on his album, Day by Day.  Their sound is reminiscent of The Plain White Ts and The Fray, and is truly radio friendly.  The first track accurately reflects the project, as they truly “Hit the Ground Running.”  Their first single, “Electrified” received critical praise both as a single and a video, and the video for their second single, “Strange Intuition” did likewise.  Other worthy tracks include their planned third single, “Devil’s in my Car,” “Don’t Lay Your Fate,” “Keeping my Head Above the Water,” “Hello Hello” and “The Place.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.  It will become a favorite.

Artist Name:  Zsuzsika

Album Name:  Start Again

Label:  USM Records/A&R Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Start Again; 2.  Til the End; 3.  Godsend; 4.  You’re not Perfect; 5.  Broken Heart

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  We previously included her lead single “Start Again” in our Ten Great Singles of September article, and immediately fell in love with her sweet voice.  She is a native Australian with a Hungarian/ Polish heritage.  Her voice soars through these sweet radio friendly tracks, positioning her for world-wide success.  “Godsend” is anthemic and could easily become one of the best “Thank You” songs ever written.  We also love the harder sound of “You’re not Perfect,” which reminds us of Avril Lavigne.

Recommendation:  Get it.

Artist Name:  Courchene/Mechlenburg

Album Name:  Søndag, Søndag, Søndag

Label:  Double Mayjah Records

Genre:  Nordic Noir/Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Søndag II; 2.  Søndag III; 3.  Søndag I; 4.  Mandag; 5.  Tirsdag; 6.  Onsdag; 7.  Torsdag; 8.  Friedag; 9.  Lørdag

Publicist:  Double Mayjah Records

Review:  Claire Courchene is an English/American composer living in Copenhagen who has worked with the likes of Kanye West, Lana del Rey, Frank Ocean, David Lynch, Josh Groban, and Madonna.  Jesper Mechlenburg is a Danish composer, songwriter and producer who also lives in Copenhagen.  Their combined talents are highlighted in this beautiful collection of instrumental songs, each named for a day of the week.  The trio of initial tracks reflect that Sunday or Søndag is considered the first day of the week or the last day, depending on your frame of mind.  This album then reflects a soundtrack for your entire week, and we can’t think of a better way to start each day than with a listen to the corresponding track.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 42

As we enter Thanksgiving week, Indie Voice Blog has so much to be thankful for.  It took us almost 27 months to reach our first 40,000 views.  In the past 12 months, we have doubled that number, with the majority of those views coming in January 2018 (9,098) and June 2018 (10,066).  As of this morning, we are sitting at 81,339 views, and expect to reach 90,000 by the end of the year.  Thanks to all the amazing artists who have submitted their music, and to the fabulous fans that continue to read our blog.

We’ve got a great week planned for you, including a special edition of Get it or Forget it featuring new Christmas music on Thanksgiving Day.  In addition, the nominations for the second half of 2018 will be announced on December 7, and we think it is our best group so far.  Here are five new singles and music videos to get your week off to a great start.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the latest from Blue Élan Records artist Mint Trip.  Check out their sweet single “Jump Rope.”  We continue to love everything this band puts out.

Our next single is also courtesy of Blue Élan Records, this time from the resurrected band Mustangs of the West.  Here is a beautiful Christmas single that is wonderful for every day listening, “Everybody Wants Peace on Earth.”

Our third single is another Christmas one, this time from The Herron Brothers.  The single drops on November 30, so here’s a SNEAK PEAK of it.  We love their Celtic pop sound, and recommend you heed their advice and “Don’t be Lonely This Christmas.”

Our fourth single is from alt-rock band &Y Myles, who tell us that it’s “Your Turn.”  We like the sentiment of the song, and the driving rock beat ain’t bad either.

Our final single this week is the second one released from the EP You Up? by Fleurt.  We love her sound and look forward to seeing what comes next.  Enjoy “Goodnight (not Goodbye).”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Moving on to the latest music videos, we have some powerful ones for you this week.  First up is the latest from Americana sweetheart and poet Emily Clibourn, dedicated to the angels who guide our paths.  Check out “Green Hair,” especially those amazing dancers.

Our second video brings Blue Élan Records’ Jesse Dayton‘s protest song, “Charlottesville” to life.  This one is truly epic because “this ain’t no time for cowards.”

Next up is a beautiful homage to one of the worst disasters NASA ever had.  Check out “Challenger” by Canadian singer-songwriter Mike Edel.

Our fourth video speaks to the problem of homesickness, which affects a lot of our college students, especially at this time of year.  Here is another Canadian band, Dumb Angel, who remind us this feeling comes in “Like a Wave, Like the Tide.”

Speaking of powerful videos, our final one this week is from Aijia, who speaks up for those afraid to speak up for themselves.  Please share this video with anyone who is struggling to find their voice.  It reminds us of one our our favorite videos, Sara Bareilles’ “Brave.”  Here’s “For You.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – The Bob Peek Thing, Lavender Fields, The Malchico, thisquietarmy, Trevor Douglas

Friday night’s concert with The Devil Makes Three was simply amazing, and it was the last night of the fall tour due to fire at the venue in Boise where they had intended to end their tour.  We didn’t think they could get any better than their latest album, Chains are Broken, but they blew us away with their live performance.  Thanks so much to Right Angle PR for the tickets.  The winter tour begins in January, and if they are coming anywhere near you, we highly recommend you get tickets.  You will not regret it.

Today was the Brawl of the Wild, and we were hoping for a great game.   Unfortunately, as we have done the past two home games, we snatched defeat from the jaws of victory, losing 29-25 to Montana State after being up 22-7 at the half,  Fortunately, we have some good music to make things better, so here are our weekend reviews.

Artist Name:  The Bob Peek Thing

Album Name:  My Good Dog, a Doobie and You

Label:  BLAJ Records

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  The Devil I Know; 2.  Quicksand Smile; 3.  Love Don’t Lie; 4.  Not Just No; 5.  Singin’ our Highway Song (Do Do Do); 6.  Our Secret Fire; 7.  My Good Dog, a Doobie and You; 8.  Girlin’; 9.  Between Your Body and Me; 10.  Vitamin U; 11.  I Like her Like That; 12.  Be a Child Again

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  It appears that this is a collection of demos written by Bob Peek.  “The Devil I Know,” “Not Just No,” “Singin’ our Highway Song,” “Vitamin U,” and “Be a Child Again” feature one or more unknown female country singers reminiscent of Carrie Underwood, while the rest feature one or more male country singers, possibly Peek.  The vocalist on “Our Secret Fire” and “Girlin'”  reminds us of a cross between Trace Adkins and Jason Aldean.  Overall, the songs are well written with upbeat lyrical content that would do well on the radio.  The title track also has that classic country feel, while “Be a Child Again” is pure bluegrass/gospel.

Recommendation:  Definitely check this one out, although we wish we knew exactly who was performing so we could give them proper credit.

Artist Name:  Lavender Fields

Album Name:  Music Beyond Music

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Experimental/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  Babochka; 2.  Like the Wind; 3.  IceKream; 4.  Sister Sister; 5.  Ganga Puja; 6.  India Street

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Lavender Fields uses her music to make a statement about the close relationship between the various life forms.  Her music combines recordings of actual animals with that of electronica and vocals, as best demonstrated on “Like the Wind.”  Her music is not for everyone, but it does raise the collective consciousness about conservation, and sometimes it’s just lighthearted and fun, like “IceKream.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  The Málchico!

Album Name:  Estereotipia

Label:  Vapour Trail Records

Genre:  EDM

Track Listing:  1.  Save the Rave; 2.  Save the Rave (Kreisel rework); 3.  Nexus; 4.  Evil Ways

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Spain gives us a remarkable solo EP from The Málchico that will have you up and dancing in no time flat.  The EP features a double dose of the song “Save the Rave,” with the second version a remix by famed Madrid DJ Kreisel.   The beat is steady and consistent, and would go well with a crowded room and lots of lights.  This is music for dancing, and possibly placement in commercials, but not right for radio or casual listening.

Recommendation:  If you love to dance and rave, then this one is the perfect soundtrack for you.

Artist Name:  thisquietarmy

Album Name:  The Body and the Earth

Label:  Consouling Sounds

Genre:  Rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Cometh; 2.  Sixth Mass; 3.  Seismic Waves; 4.  Algal Bloom

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  Thisquietarmy just completed a successful 16-city European tour in support of their latest effort, a breathtaking rock instrumental that borders on prog rock.  The music is majestic and sweeping, providing a cinematic rock soundtrack for your listening pleasure.  The music might be a good fit for placement opportunities, but not radio.

Recommendation:  If you like prog rock, this one is definitely worth your attention.

Artist Name:  Trevor Douglas

Album Name:  Four in the Morning

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Pressure; 2.  Problems; 3.  Take This Back; 4.  Stay by Your Side; 5.  Hold Me; 6.  Dandelions

Publicist:  Magic Tree Productions

Review:  Trevor Douglas has a warm, upbeat pop style reminiscent of Justin Timberlake, but with an even more soulful vibe.  His songs are truly radio friendly, and would also make excellent placements for television and film, especially “Pressure.”  “Stay by Your Side” is reminiscent of the best tunes ever done by N’Sync or New Kids on the Block.  Every other song on the EP is a winner and deserves to be put on repeat.

Recommendation:  You simply must get this one.  It is one of this year’s best.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – The Devil Makes Three, William Bishop, Keir Vine, KENT, Stefano Lentini

We made it to Friday again, so let’s celebrate with five more releases, four of which are dropping today.  The fifth was released a few weeks ago, but the artist, The Devil Makes Three, is performing tonight as they close out their Fall Tour with a stop at our own Wilma Theater and we hope to be able to attend and review the performance.  In the meantime, check out our reviews.

Artist Name:  The Devil Makes Three

Album Name:  Chains are Broken

Label:  New West Records

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Chains are Broken; 2.  Pray for Rain; 3.  Paint my Face; 4.  Can’t Stop; 5.  Need to Lose; 6.  All is Quiet; 7.  Bad Idea; 8.  Deep Down; 9.  Native Son; 10.  Castles; 11.  Curtains Rise

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  The Americana genre encompasses a wide array of roots-based music, but no artist demonstrates the entirety of the genre like The Devil Makes Three.  They have the vocals and harmonies of Mumford & Sons and I’m With Her, with the guitar sound of Dick Dale, and the storytelling of The Decemberists, all wrapped up in their unique style.  We can hardly believe that all of that musical ability comes from just three people, but can easily believe they are one of the best bands in the world.  On their latest album, they leave nothing on the table, but bring it all to deliver an exceptional collection of music that everyone should be proud to have in their collection.  There is not a weak song on the album, but we especially like the title track, “Can’t Stop,” “Bad Idea,” “Native Son,” and “Castles.”

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one and definitely see them on tour.

Artist Name:  William Bishop

Album Name:  Second Time Around

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Hesperus\Phosphorus; 2.  Nicotine; 3.  St. Augustine; 4.  Screen Memory (It Used to go Like That but now it Goes Like This); 5.  Quiver\Bitten\Shine; 6.  Second Time Around

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  William Bishop has a simple acoustic approach to his music, and his sound is somewhere between Bob Dylan and Tom Waits.  His vibe is melancholy while his vocals are strong, capturing the mood of his lyrical content while his hands slide up and down the neck of his acoustic guitar, bringing it and his music to life.  These songs demand your full attention to catch all the nuances of his words and music, but the payoff is rich indeed.  Put this one on when you have the time to truly listen, and you’ll walk away a better person.

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

Artist Name:  Keir Vine

Album Name:  Instance

Label:  Trestle Records

Genre:  Experimental/Electronic/Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Bob the Dog; 2.  Hench Chant; 3.  Uncle Doovey’s Return; 4.  Meditation No. 1; 5.  Wavey Blade; 6.  Audiogram; 7.  Under Water; 8.  Acceptance

Publicist:  Trestle Records

Review:  This album was definitely not what I expected.  Beginning with the first track, which is a sung stream of consciousness by a friend immediately after he had an epileptic seizure, Portico Quartet‘s Keir Vine immediately lets you know that his music cannot easily be stuffed into any genre, but encompasses a wide variety of styles that is ultimately his own.  The music would make a great soundtrack for visualizations of mental breakdowns, with its eerie, ethereal vibe.  Other than that, it is not good for relaxation or meditation.

Recommendation:  Unless you like the very weird in music, you may just want to forget this one.

Artist Name:  KENT

Album Name:  Hot Chicken Sandwich

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots/Folk/Country/Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Hot Chicken Sandwich; 2.  Dry Little Cracker; 3.  Far Out; 4.  Tonto Lamento; 5.  Me Neither

Publicist:  RDX Promo

Review:  Canadian KENT fully captures the essence of life in rural Canada, creating a roots masterpiece that can just as easily describe life in the deep south.  His brand of roots music is raw but refreshingly real.  Whether he is accompanying himself on tenor guitar, cigarbox, or ukulele, the instrumentation matches the mood of the song and makes each one a unique gift to the listener.  This one’s a keeper, especially “Dry Little Cracker.”

Recommendation:  Get this one and enjoy.

Artist Name:  Stefano Lentini

Album Name:  Fury

Label:  Coloora Records

Genre:  Alt-Classical/Prog Rock

Track Listing:  1.  r73; 2.  Suite After the Furies; 3.  Les Fluers Da Mal; 4.  Unaided Eye; 5.  Fury; 6.  You Must Respect the Sea; 7.  Adagio; 8.  Ouverture II; 9.  Introitus; 10.  Shine on Darkness; 11.  Stabat Mater; 12.  White Fish Black Fish

Publicist:  Vision Music Promotions

Review:  What do you get when you combine classical music with prog rock?  You get an amazing sound that is cinematic and majestic and totally relaxing and fresh.  Stefano Lentini delivers a stunning audio masterpiece with his latest project, creating music that is sweeping and perfect for placement opportunities in television and film.  His majestic “Suite After the Furies” is one of the finest instrumental songs we have heard this year, as he does for classical prog rock what Bond did for string ensemble.  The Italian and French vocals only add to the theme of this collection.  This one is going on repeat, providing the perfect soundtrack for down time.

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

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Ascent, Abby Zotz, The Thick Un’s, Robert Kantor, Luiz Bruno

Happy Thursday.  We hope you’ve had a great week and are ready for the weekend.  Here in Montana, we are preparing for the biggest game of the year against our cross-state rival, Montana State, affectionately called the Griz-Cats Brawl of the Wild.  Should be an interesting match-up on Saturday.  In the meantime, here are five artists to check out, including the creator of Kantor Guitars.  Let’s get the party going.

Artist Name:  Ascent

Album Name:  Bleed Like Us

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Beacon Eleven; 2.  Bleed Like Us; 3.  Don’t Make Me; 4.  Last Night; 5.  Divergence

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The Spider Accomplice has long been Alt Rock royalty in the Los Angeles and Orange County area.  Enter Ascent, another female fronted duo that wants a piece of that royalty, and with the goods they have delivered in their latest Bleed Like Us, they just might have the stuff to join TSA at the top of the alt rock scene.  While lead singer Christina Baldwin is not quite as strong of a vocalist as VK Lynne, the music generated is just as powerful and moving.  Both bands are using their music to promote their causes, and the title track is a strong statement.  If you’re not politically minded, the music is just plain good and can stand on its own.  You definitely need to check out this power duo, and catch them live if you live in the LA/OC area.

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Abby Zotz

Album Name:  Local Honey

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Stability; 2.  Big Hope; 3.  Peace Sweet Peace; 4.  Pirouette; 5.  Good Bones; 6.  Be Here Now; 7.  Hush Baby Waltz; 8.  Sea Change; 9.  All Through the Night; 10.  See Your Face; 11.  You’ll Never Know

Publicist:  Last Tango Media

Review:  Abby Zotz is an iconic singer-songwriter from Canada who is releasing her first solo album.  She has a style similar to Anne Murray and Joan Baez but with a stronger pop/rock vibe.  She starts the album with the strong sound of “Stability” and keeps it going throughout this impeccable debut album.  Her songs are truly radio friendly while being uplifting, igniting emotions of love, hope and faith.  Her ability to play multiple instruments and effortlessly cross genres is the sign of great things to come for this amazing artist.  There is not a weak song on this album, so enjoy each and every one.

Recommendation:  Definitely add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  The Thick Un’s

Album Name:  Greasy Gambit

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Savage Sea; 2.  Winter Warfare; 3.  Reckless Rider; 4.  Cold Cabin

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This is a home recording project from the artist formerly known as Crumb Catcher and his partner, Marc Kennedy.  It is raw, discordant, and mixes elements of punk, rock, and roots to form something that has the potential to be great.  They have a similar affection for alliteration, but could use some help with the production of their sound.  This one is not quite there yet, but their sound definitely could take them places if they are willing.

Recommendation:  Keep them on your radar.

Artist Name:  Robert Kantor

Album Name:  Truth

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Dance Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Happiness; 2.  Only a Fool; 3.  Don’t Walk Away; 4.  The Truth; 5.  Talking Blue; 6.  Know What I Know Now; 7.  Dreamer; 8.  Tuesday Girl; 9.  The Rain Song DUET; 10.  Dancing Fools

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  With amazing horns and upbeat lyrics, Robert Kantor shows that he is more than just a wizard at creating instruments.  His style and vibe are like Frank Sinatra singing Huey Lewis pop ditties.  His words are well-crafted using a myriad of musical styles, giving him an advantage over other pop artists.  Best tracks include “Happiness,” “The Truth,” “Talking Blue,” “Know What I Know Now,” “Dreamer” (which sounds a lot like Steely Dan), “Tuesday Girl,” “The Rain Song DUET” and “Dancing Fools,” which reminds us of the great music of the early 70s.

Recommendation:  This one deserves a place in your music library.

Artist Name:  Luiz Bruno

Album Name:  Everything’s Fine

Label:  Take One Records

Genre:  Indie Pop

Track Listing:  1.  The Ballad of Cool Lane; 2.  Whenever you Go; 3.  Mental; 4.  Journeying Across Worlds; 5.  Words are not Reality; 6.  Everything’s Fine; 7.  Yeah!; 8.  I get so Frustrated; 9.  Infinite Bummer; 10.  Death is Rolaidz; 11.  Doce Luar; 12.  The Thingamagigg; 13.  Eu Sempre me Frustro (bonus track)

Publicist:  Vision Music Promotion

Review:  From the first notes of this album, it becomes quickly evident that this is a breezy, smooth pop artist with amazing songwriting abilities.  The sound is so upbeat and fun that you want to listen to the songs over and over again.  He blends elements of electronica with a steady drum beat and breezy vocals that capture the mood and will accentuate your good times.  There are elements of punk and new wave, especially on “Wherever You Go.”  His music has been compared to somewhere between Frank Zappa and George Clinton, and we think that analogy is spot on.

Recommendation:  Definitely give this one a spin.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Monique Angele, Alright Alright, Music Within, Velvet Flare, Leo James Conroy

Happy hump day!  We’re working hard on reviews, with nearly 50 left to write by the end of the month before choosing the nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards.  This cycle is going to be extremely difficult, with nearly 500 submissions, but we think  you’ll be pleased with the nominations, which will be announced on December 7.  In the meantime, check out these five artists.

Artist Name:  Monique Angele

Album Name:  Alive

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Pink Coloured Sky; 2.  Our Paradise; 3.  Forever Strong; 4.  Rare Girl; 5.  Hold On; 6.  I Want A World

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Monique Angele is a Canadian artist now residing in Australia, who possesses a voice and style that is somewhere between Adele and Sarah MacLachlan.  Her voice soars to new heights on top of the majestic music that forms the melody.  Her song “Our Paradise” was inspired by the beauty of her new home.  Her voice could easily represent the next animated Disney heroine while her songwriting should be included in a myriad of placement opportunities.  Angele’s sound brings pop music to a higher plain, taking it from Broadway to the top of the Billboard charts.  There is great depth in her lyrics and a classical style to her music, with amazing piano solos that perfectly support these songs.  If you want your spirit to be lifted higher, then put this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  If you want  to be uplifted and inspired, then run out and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Alright Alright

Album Name:  Surrender

Label:  Hive-Mind Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Omie Wise; 2.  Area 51 Revisited; 3.  Supernatural; 4.  Battle it Out; 5.  Fell off the Face of the Earth

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Alright Alright is a quintet with an amazing chemistry that combines Indie Rock along with elements of Americana and alt country to create a fun power-pop mix that will take the listener to a fun and exciting place that gets your toes tapping and your spirit lifted, especially the irrelevant “Area 51 Revisited” and the sweet horns of “Battle it Out.”  They incorporate their love of B-movies into the songs, creating a fun soundtrack for your silent movie night.  This is the perfect album for nerds of all ages.

Recommendation:  If you are a proud nerd, then this is the one for you – add it to your collection today.

Artist Name:  Music Within

Album Name:  Finding Stillness

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Ambient Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Dream State; 2.  Finding Stillness; 3.  REM; 4.  By the Sea; 5.  Weightless; 6.  Goddess of the Sea; 7.  Quiet Mind; 8.  Daydreams; 9.  Alpha Waves; 10.  Light Years; 11.  Worlds Apart; 12.  Floating; 13.  Restore; 14.  Calm Surrender; 15.  Look Within; 16.  REM (Soft Mix); 17.  Daydreams (Soft Mix); 18.  Worlds Apart (Soft Mix); 19.  Goddess of the Sea (Soft Mix); 20.  Quiet Mind (Soft Mix); 21.  Finding Stillness (Solo Piano); 22.  Weightless (Solo Piano); 23.  Alpha Waves (Solo Piano); 24.  Floating (Solo Piano)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Rob McAllister aka Music Within has created an incredibly smooth soundtrack for day to day living.  The music truly soothes the soul as the ambiance and instrumentation wash away all of the listeners worries and cares.  It provides a welcome respite from the daily turmoils and puts the listener in the proper frame of mind to live their life.  This album has great commercial appeal and would make excellent placement choices for every type of media.  This one is going on repeat.

Recommendation:  If you need to relax, this is the album for you.  Get it now.

Artist Name:  Velvet Flare

Album Name:  Despair and Desire

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  My Femme Fatale; 2.  Ms Fox; 3.  Nothing Left to Hide; 4.  Don’t go Now; 5.  This Life & Time; 6.  How Could I; 7.  Sunbeam; 8.  The End of Us

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Velvet Flare is another incredible Aussie band that pulls its inspiration from a myriad of subjects, including 40s film noir, global warming and bad relationships, with cutting-edge humor and lyrical content, all set to a throbbing indie rock beat, complete with screaming guitars and harmonious vocals.  The music has a 60s/70s British Invasion feel and is fun to listen to.  The music is radio friendly and should do well on college radio, especially “This Life & Time” and “How Could I.”

Recommendation:  Give this one a spin!

Artist Name:  Leo James Conroy

Album Name:  Plastic Chairs & Cigarette Fumes

Label:  Alternative Fidelity

Genre:  R&B/Soul/Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Forbidden Fruit; 2.  Plastic Chairs & Cigarette Fumes; 3.  White Noise; 4.  How the Hell; 5.  Leave it all Behind; 6.  Like Ink

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  We featured his first single, “Leave it all Behind,” in our Ten Great Singles of October article, and the remainder of his debut EP is just as great.  From the first wailing notes of “Forbidden Fruit,” Leo James Conroy gives us amazing vocals and well-written lyrics, supported by the perfect mix of jazz/soul and R&B.  This music is perfect for radio and for placement opportunities in television and film.  His music is the perfect cross-over for jazz/blues, soul/R&B, pop and AAA formats.  The title track has that smoky lounge sound that is prevalent in film noir.  It also provides the perfect soundtrack for weekend parties or evening chill time.  Hard to believe that all of this music came out of a time when he was in and out of the hospital for kidney failure.  Conroy should be the poster child for “blue-eyed soul.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – Get it today!

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Sandy Carroll, Farewood, Charlotte and Thieves, Old Vinyl Club, Ruth and Emilia

It’s another beautiful day, and we can see the light at the end of the submissions!  We plan to be finished reviewing all of the requests by the end of the month so we can prepare our nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018, which will be announced on December 7.  Here are five more for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Sandy Carroll

Album Name:  Blues & Angels

Label:  Catfood Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Soak me in the Spirit; 2.  Blues all for Myself (ft Rocky Athas); 3.  Somebody Gotta Dance; 4.  Wrapped in an Angel; 5.  Mama Don’t Like It; 6.  Love is a Wonderful Thing (ft Johnny Rawls); 7.  Slings and Arrows (ft Rocky Athas); 8.  Headin’ Home (ft Bernard Allison); 9.  Road Angels; 10.  Movin’ On; 11.  Mississippi Me

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Sandy Carroll is fast becoming an icon in the blues world, and her fourth album just adds to her legacy.  Her special guests on this one include Blues Music Award winning vocalist Johnny Rawls, guitarists Rocky Athas and Bernard Allison and Muscle Shoals studio musicians David Hood (bass) and Clayton Ivy (keyboards).  The album was produced by Grammy-winning producer (and Carroll’s husband) Jim Gaines, and features a mixture of blues, jazz and gospel.  Carroll’s soothing voice sits perfectly on the amazing accompaniment, conveying hope in the midst of turmoil.  There isn’t a weak track on the album, so put it on, grab a glass of wine, and just enjoy.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues with a touch of gospel and jazz, then you should definitely add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  Farewood

Album Name:  Under Burning Sun

Label:  ARClight Records

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Secret Room; 2.  Under Burning Sun; 3.  Ash to Soil; 4.  War; 5.  Highest Garden; 6.  One Step Closer; 7.  Changing Shape; 8.  Back to the Mountain; 9.  Sun Moon Star;  10.  Beyond the Waves; 11.  Haunting Light (bonus track)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The hauntingly sweet voice of lead singer and bassist Leah Booker permeates every note on their latest album, delivering the perfect mix of angst and hope.  From the first note of “Secret Room,” this runaway train takes off and barrels through the night, delivering a potent dose of alternative rock, track by track.  These songs are perfectly suited for placement opportunities in commercials, film and television, and are also radio friendly, especially for college radio.  If this is the future of alternative rock, then the industry is in very good hands.

Recommendation:  Drop what you’re doing and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Charlotte & Thieves

Album Name:  It Won’t be Long, We Won’t Belong

Label:  Nordic Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t you Wanna Know my Name; 2.  The Machine; 3.  Younger Boy

Publicist:  Nordic Records

Review:  Once again we get incredible music from the Great North, as Charlotte & Thieves delivers on their debut EP.  The band contains two members from Norway and two from Sweden, and the chemistry in the music is what world peace is made of.  This band knows how to rock and does so in a way that sets the bar high for subsequent bands.  All three songs are amazing and show great promise for the future of this band.  We only wish there was more.  We will wait with baited breath until their next release.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – Get it today!

Artist Name:  Old Vinyl Club

Album Name:  Homemade Recordings

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie/Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Dutch Beer; 2.  Running Fast; 3.  Something New

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Spanish duo Old Vinyl Club brings some interesting indie/ alternative rock sounds to the mix on their latest self-released project.  “Running Fast” is the best track, but the other two had potential and reveal that the band could develop an even better sound.  They are worthy of your attention.

Recommendation:  Check out this band.  Although not quite ready for prime time, they definitely have potential.

Artist Name:  Ruth and Emilia

Album Name:  The Spaceship That Fell in my Backyard

Label:  Baa Baa Farms Records

Genre:  Children’s Pop

Track Listing:  1.  The Spaceship That Fell in my Backyard; 2.  Where do I Live?; 3.  We’re Gonna be Legendary; 4.  This is the way it Should Be; 5.  Repair the World; 6.  Everything is Better with Some Bubbles; 7.  I’m Smart on Safety; 8.  Can’t Janet Come and Play?; 9.  Dancing in our pjs; 10.  Just Inside This Classroom; 11.  The Spaceship . . . (reprise)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Were the material not intended for children, the electric sound and amazing vocals of Emilia Lopez-Yañez and Ruth Weber aka Ruth & Emilia could easily elevate this duo to the top of the charts.  At any rate, they are one of the best children’s bands we have ever heard, and equally as versatile and dynamic as our own local children’s band, the Whizpops.  Their sound is similar to the cast of Glee, while the album tells a great story about aliens and their quest for knowledge about earth and its inhabitants.  “Repair the World” even won the Grand Prize in this year’s John Lennon Songwriting Competition in the Children’s category.  This soundtrack would be perfect for an animated children’s show.  They are most worthy of consideration for a Grammy nomination.

Recommendation:  If you have kids, they will love this one.  Get it for them.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo Hollywood Fringe Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 41

Happy Veterans Day (day 2).  Since the real day fell on a Sunday, the government is honoring it today, giving us veterans a double holiday.  Thanks to Red Robin and Applebee’s for feeding so many of us yesterday, and to Denny’s and Noodles Express for taking care of us today.  We’ve got some news for you, as well as five new singles and music videos to share, so grab your coffee and let’s get going.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES DATES FOR 2019

The tenth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival will be held June 13-30, 2019, with previews from June 6-11 and the Opening Night Party on June 12.  In addition, they are now accepting applications for Fringe Scholarships.  As we previously informed you, our very own LA Music Critic has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for his first solo show, Livin’ the Dream, which is scheduled to premiere at HFF19.  Please check out his campaign and support him if you can.  We thank you for whatever you can contribute.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from a pair of songwriters we have met as a result of our involvement in the Durango Songwriters Expo.  Richard Harris is an amazing songwriter and mentor who has worked with a number of DSE alum, and his collaboration with fellow Brit Greg Holden on “Something Beautiful” gives us hope in this troubled time.  We have wanted to share this one since we heard it at the Expo in October.

While we’re spotlighting UK artists, here are a couple of singles we have received as a result of our affiliation with “Send to Media.”  First up is Welshman Ryan Davies, who continues the aforementioned theme with “Beautiful Thing.”  This one reminds us of Rod Stewart.

Our third single is a super-cool upbeat dance pop track from Fanny Andersen.  Check out her groovy number, “Dollar Signs.”  Although this one technically came out in September, we missed it and wanted you to have the chance to hear what should be the first of many hit songs from her.

https://soundcloud.com/edda-music/fanny-andersen-dollar-igns/s-5gCif

Our fourth single comes from Hotel Mira, who says they were inspired to write “Jungle” after viewing the Oscar nominated film, Lady Bird.  Let us know what you think of this outstanding indie rock band, which we previously featured in our Ten Great Singles of April article.

Our final single today is a delightful cover of the Prince-written Sinead O’Connor song “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Norwegian artist Anna of the North.  Enjoy this one which should get your week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from former Mickey Mouse Club and The Voice contestant Tony Lucca, who reminds us that “Everthing’s Changing.”  We love this one.

Next up is the latest from the one and only KT Tunstall.  Here’s her video for her latest single, “Human Being.”  Special props to Eccaia Sampson, the unbelievable 8-year old martial artist who stars in the video.

Our third video is some rocking blues from Karen Lawrence and Blue by Nature.  Check out this live version of their song, “It’s All About You.”  Thanks to Doug Deutsch for sharing this one with us.

Our fourth video takes us from the blues to R&B.  We love this one from the amazing Lorelle Howard, who mixes several genres to deliver a gem in “Runnin.”

Our final video this week is “World Domination,” an indie rock post apocalyptic smash from Band of Silver that pays homage to such classic movies as The Hunger Games.