Category: Big Sky Documentary Film Festival

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Artists Worth Checking Out Awards Big Sky Documentary Film Festival indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2019: vol 8

The 16th annual Big Sky Documentary Film Festival has come to an end, and judging from the crowds that continued to come to the films on closing day, it was a very successful run.  Over the past week we were able to view two more films, as well as working in the box office nearly every day.  We made a lot of new friends, had fun at the daily parties, and are now looking forward to slowing down the pace.

On Wednesday we had the privilege of witnessing Fire on the Hill:  The Cowboys of South Central LA, a truly inspiring film from director Brett Fallentine.  The film, which started out as an investigative piece to discover who burned down The Hill stables in South Central LA, shifted to become a compelling profile of several of those black cowboys who ride their horses through the streets of South Central LA and Compton.  The goal of their group is to teach the skills and values of horsemanship, as well as give inner city kids an alternative to a life in the gangs and on the streets.  Definitely check out their website for ways you can contribute to meet that goal.

The director, along with four of the subjects from the film – Ghuan Featherstone, Calvin, Will and PRCA professional bull rider Chris Bird, arrived just as the film credits rolled and gave us an amazing Q&A.    The film screened again to another packed house on Saturday, and the Q&A for that one was truly off the hook.  Ghuan, who is also an amazing singer-songwriter who contributed songs to the movie, sang a stirring a capella version of one of his songs, resulting in a standing ovation.  We also enjoyed having the time to get to know Ghuan and Brett during the week, and look forward to taking a ride with Ghuan when we are in LA this summer.

The second film we watched was Desolation Center, a film about the punk rock movement in LA in the early 80s.  What made this film so unique was that Stuart Swezy, the creator of Desolation Center, was not just the subject of the film, but also directed and produced it.  The film began with the infamous riot at The Ramones concert at the Hollywood Palladium led by former police chief Darryl Gates, who was forced to resign after the 1992 riots.  Realizing that it was not safe to organize large punk rock events in the city of Los Angeles, Swezy created several site specific concerts in the Mojave Desert and on a boat in San Pedro harbor that featured some of the biggest acts of that time, including local band The Minutemen, The Meat Puppets, Sonic Youth and more.  These shows spawned other alternative festivals, including Burning Man and Coachella, and left a legacy that will never be forgotten.  The film brilliantly captured this tumultuous time and shone a light on both the music and the people who attended these concerts.

We had intended to view ..So Good I Can’t Take it, but the screening was sold out and we had to turn away people.  Director Kirk Leclaire has promised to send us a link to screen the film, and we will write our review thereafter.

On Friday night, the winners of Big Sky’s four competitions were announced.  In addition to the four winners, the juries honored one film in each category with Artistic Vision awards.  Winners of the mini-doc and shorts categories are eligible for consideration for an Academy award.  One of the shorts shown at this year’s Festival, Lifeboat, was a nominee at this year’s awards which were held last night.

BEST FEATURE
Winner – PARIAH DOG – Jesse Alk
Artistic Vision – DARK EDEN – Jasmin Herold & Michael Beamish
BIG SKY AWARD
Winner – THE BLESSING – Hunter Robert Baker & Jordan Fein
Artistic Vision – FIRE ON THE HILL: COWBOYS OF SOUTH CENTRAL L.A. – Brett Fallantine
BEST SHORT
Winner – ST. LOUIS SUPERMAN – Smriti Mundhra and Sami Kahn
Artistic Vision – EL DESIERTO – Carly Jakins and Jared Jakins
BEST MINI-DOC
Winner – SCENES FROM A DRY CITY – Francois Verster & Simon Wood

Artistic Vision – LOTUS – Mohammadreza Vatandoust

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from the Insomniac Bears.  We love the retro sound of their song “Passing Trains,” which we think could be a hit on college radio.  Check it out.

Our next single is a feisty dance track from Nikki’s Wives.  This one is guaranteed to get you up and dancing as you enjoy the groove of “Lemonade.”

Our third single today comes from LA Music Critic Award winning electronica duo Lovers & Poets.  We continue to be amazed at the growth of this band, and think you will love “Nevergonnastop.”

https://loversandpoets.bandcamp.com/track/nevergonnastop

Next up is the latest from Blue Élan Records artists Red Wanting Blue, who have joined up with Liz Brasher for their latest single, “I’ve Got a Feeling It Hurts.”  This one is an amazing collaboration and we think it belongs on radio stations everywhere.

Our final single this week is from Australian artist Philip la Rosa, an amazing R&B/pop artist with a dynamic flair for the incredible.  Here is his song “Fable,” which we think is simply one of the best singles we have heard this year.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from LA Music Critic Award winner Keaton Simons, and was inspired by the book and film A Chance in the World.  We love this inspiring song and video, and are so proud of the growth of this artist.  Check out “Find Us.”

Next up we have the last segment of three live videos featured the driving blues sound of The Spear Shakers.  We think “Leaving it all Behind” is the perfect song for the culmination of this project.

Our third video is from European rockers Ivan & the Parazol.  They have created a rocking lyric video for their song “When I was 17.”  Rock on!

Nashville’s premier punk band and LA Music Critic Award winners Taco Mouth have created a powerful video for their protest song “The White House.”  This one captures the energy and the powerful lyrics, so be prepared to be rocked out.

We close out this week’s Monday Mashup with the latest from glam rocker Jess Weimer.  It is a visually stimulating video for her insightful song “Glass Tower.”

 

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Big Sky Documentary Film Festival indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 7

Happy President’s Day!  It was a very busy weekend with the opening of the 16th Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.   We volunteered four box office shifts at the Wilma and MCT, attended the parties on Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and still managed to squeeze in a block of four documentary shorts and two features.  One of the shorts, After the Fire, won last year’s Pitch Day competition, and we can’t wait to see what gets pitched this year on Thursday.

At Friday night’s party at the Elks Lodge, we met director James Martin and his wife Jen West, as well as cinematographer Bud Simpson and Eva.  They were involved in the short film Being with Elephants which screened Saturday afternoon and will screen again on Thursday at 4 p.m. at MCT.  They were amazing company and we managed to run into each other several times over the weekend.  We only wish we could see their film, but our schedule doesn’t permit that,

At Saturday night’s party at the Missoula Art Museum, we met Jonathan Sutak, the director of Dons of Disco.  Before the Mili Vanilli lip-syncing scandal, there was Den Harrow, an Italo Disco artist who sold 20 million records without singing a word.  This brilliant movie told the story of the plan by American singer-songwriter Tom Hooker and Italian producer Miki Chieregato to have a male model become the face of their music.  It was a compelling story about the music industry and left us wanting to know even more about this fascinating tale, and  the dispute that developed between Hooker and Harrow.  We highly recommend this film.

Last night we attended Industrial Accident:  The Story of Wax Trax! Records.  This was the story of a small record store in Chicago that accidentally created a whole new genre of music and launched the careers of acts such as Ministry, Front 242, REVCO, My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult and inspired others like Nine Inch Nails.  It was a remarkable story directed by Julia Nash, the daughter of Jim Nash, who together with his partner Dannie Flesher, created this alternate reality for people whose musical tastes were far from the mainstream.  We also highly recommend this film.

Today we are volunteering at the box office at the Elks Lodge before heading off to work, followed by tonight’s party at the Dana Gallery.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from our dear PR friend, Doug Deutsch Publicity Services.  It is the latest from LA Music Critic Award winner for best EDM/Dance artist/band TNEO, and we really dig the groove of “Circles Around You.”  This one will definitely get you up and dancing on this Monday morning.

Next up is the latest from the amazing Alyssa Jacey.  She has recently married the love of her life, Jutt Huffman, and the resulting new music is full of hope and love.  Check out “Our Love” and share  it with those you care for.

Our third single comes from the band Crystal Tides, and is an upbeat alt pop song called “Backbiting.”  We love their groove and think this song has some serious legs.  Check it out.

Next up is the latest from Grammy-winning artist Aqualung.  “Complicated” is the second single from his new album Additional Futures.  We think it’s one of his best ever and can’ wait to review the entire album soon.

Our final single this week is a rare treat.  This one is a country tune from William Shatner (yes, Captain Kirk) and Jeff Cook of the incredible country band Alabama, which also features country legend Neal McCoy and acapella group Home Free).  We are shocked at how good it is.  Here’s “Why Not Me.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video has the incredible guitarist/vocalist Jess McAvoy serenading the streets and subways of New York City with her truly inspirational song, “Do What you Want.”  We love it.

Next up is the latest from The Stoneface, an amazing band out of Belarus.  We love the rocking sound of “That Summer” and think you will too.

Video number three comes from Swedish alt pop artist Augustine.  We love the sound of his latest, “Luzon,” and think he has a great career ahead.  His sound is perfect for American radio, and the cinematography in the video is outstanding.  Check it out and see.

Our next video is from New Orleans-based Berlin Taxi and has a definite 80s new wave vibe.  We love “Last Night” and think you will too.

Our final music video today is “Shacked up Sweetie,” a rousing country tune from Canadian Francine Honey.  This one will get your boots on the dance floor.  Enjoy!

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Artists Worth Checking Out Awards Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 9

March has arrived so spring shouldn’t be too far behind!  What did you think about the Oscars last night?  Besides the fact that it was long, we were delighted to see the focus shift onto the hard-working ladies and minorities who have contributed so much and received so little recognition.  With that in mind, let’s look at what’s happening in the indie world.

UM CIRCUS CLUB TO HOST FIRST EVER RENAISSANCE FAIRE

The University of Montana Circus Club is hosting their spring fundraiser, and it’s a mini-Renaissance Faire!  The event will occur on Sunday, March 11 from 2-5:30 p.m. in Schreiber Gym on the campus of the University of Montana.  It is right next to the Library on the southeastern corner of campus.

There is a $5/person suggested donation, or $15 per family (bring all the kids!)  Please pay at the door with cash!

The faire will include food and beverage (of course), a costume and “Best Knees-in-a-Kilt” contests with prizes, live weapons and combat demonstrations, archery and axe-throwing activities, circus performances, face painting, crafting workshops, and a photo booth with costumes and props.  Costumes will also be available for rent.

THE AUDIENCE AWARDS ANNOUNCE BIG SKY WINNERS

The recently concluded Big Sky Documentary Film Festival included a Native American Doc Challenge this year, which was run by the Audience Awards.  Here were their winners:

The First Place Jury Winner was Derrick Lamere, with his film United by Water, while the Jury Honorable Mention went to Anthony Florez for Generations.

Check out the top eight films which are competing for the $5,500 prize by clicking here.  Voting runs April 4-10.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single today comes from a band we have previously reviewed who has recently signed with Blue Élan Records.  Please check out “Tip of my Tongue” by Mint Trip.

Next up is a young artist named Ashley Delima, who has a lot to say with her single, “Stay in America.”  She is a living example of a Dreamer, and wants to tell everyone why she wants to stay here.   She is an American born child who was raised in Brazil but has now settled in New Jersey.  The song is a shout-out to those struggling to stay in the U.S. at a time when DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrival) is being threatened.  The song was produced by two-time Grammy winning producer Marc Swersky (Joe Cocker, Hillary Duff) and mixed by Mark Needham (Imagine Dragons, Fleetwood Mac).  Please share her story.

Our final single today comes to us from Amsterdam and features Belle and the Beats with their single, “Soldier of the Night.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Last week we had the pleasure of reviewing Floods.  They have now released a music video for their first single, “Heavy Hearts.”  We hope you dig it as much as we do.

Our second new video features acclaimed actor Danny Trejo in the latest video from The Zephyr Bones.  Check out “The Arrow of our Youth.”

Our third video is from Blue Élan Records’ latest revival artist, Fanny Walked the Earth.  We simply love this video for the amazing single, “Lured Away.”  Don’t forget to check out their review as well.

Our final video this week is from Little Stranger for their single, “Sing it High.”  this should get your week off to a great start.

Belle

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 8

The Big Sky Documentary Film Festival has come to a close, and it was a very successful run.  So many of the movies sold out, including a few that we had the pleasure of viewing, such as Dark Money, Fail State and the Greg Barker film The Final Year.  We’ll have more on the winners at the Festival later this week.  For now, here’s the latest news on the indie arts front.

AMERICANAFEST IS ACCEPTING SHOWCASE APPLICATIONS

Showcase submissions for AMERICANAFEST® 2018 are now open and will be accepted through Monday, March 26, 2018. There are two ways to submit:
  • Submissions are open to anyone via our digital platform for a small fee of $25.  Digitally submit here.
  • Become an artist member of the Americana Music Association® today and take advantage of free submissions, access to our expansive artist and industry global community, discounted conference registration rates and more!  To join, click here.  Once you join, you will find a free submission form link in your welcome letter.
Selected artists will showcase Tuesday, September 11 through Sunday, September 16 at many premiere venues throughout Nashville, Tennessee.  For more information, go to our website.
MONTANA REP ANNOUNCES NEW DIRECTOR

Montana Repertory Theatre, the professional theatre-in-residence at the University of Montana School of Theatre & Dance, has selected Michael Legg to become its next artistic director.

Legg is currently the director of the Professional Training Company at Actors Theatre of Louisville, Kentucky.  He will start his new role at the University of Montana on July 1.

Montana Rep celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017.  Greg Johnson, whose tenure with Montana Rep began in 1990, is delighted with the choice.

“Mr. Legg brings youth, vision and vitality at a time when the Rep is poised not only to continue its tradition of touring nationally, but also to be a strong artistic presence in Missoula and the region, as the University of Montana begins its renaissance under our new president.”

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS ARTIST KEITH HARKIN TO PLAY SPECIAL PRE-ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT LA’S HOTEL CAFE

Irish singer/songwriter Keith Harkin (of Celtic Thunder fame) is currently on a Stateside tour in support of his new live solo release, In The Round, his fourth album on Blue Élan Records.

He will perform at Los Angeles’ famed indie listening room The Hotel Cafe (1623 Cahuenga Boulevard, Hollywood) on Saturday, March 5 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are available here for $35 in advance.  We strongly encourage you to attend this show.

NEW SINGLES

 Our first single today comes from Ruby Friedman and Two Beards.  It is an amazing Americana song called “Un4gvn.”  We truly dig it and hope you will too.

We just discovered an amazing British country pop band called Delaware.  They have a new single called “Fire,” and we think it is really hot.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final new single today is a rocking number from Australian artist Reichelt.  Here is “Seduced by the Light Side.”  Let it get your new week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the title track for the forthcoming EP from Keaton Simons, one of Los Angeles’ elite indie artists.  His new EP will be released on March 9 and is being produced by Nashville legendary producer Marshall Altman.  It will have more of an Americana feel than his previous material.  Let us know what you think.

Last week we reviewed the new EP from Marieme, and were truly impressed with her voice and her message.  Here’s the music video for her most personal and powerful song, “Leave.”  This one will move you.

Our final video today comes from another Blue Élan artist, Cindy Alexander.  She has released a lyric video for her song “Passenger,” from her latest album, Nowhere to Hide.  Have a wonderful week.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Craig Kelley Band, VK, Candy Ambulance, Josh Mover and the Shakers, The Lovely Eggs

TGIF!  It’s been a busy week at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival, which is winding down this weekend.  We got to celebrate “After the Fire,” the winner of the Tribeca Film Institute‘s $20,000 “If/Then” filmmaker’s pitch competition last night, a film to be completed about the recent fire in Sonoma in northern California.  It sounds like a great film.  While we wait for them to complete it, let’s check out five more new releases today.

Artist Name:  Craig Kelley Band

Album Name:  Not so Blue

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Nobody Wins; 2.  Sweet Memory; 3.  Forevermore; 4.  It’s Almost Game Time

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We’ve reviewed a lot of blues her in the past six months, and Craig Kelley is easily one of our favorites.  We love all forms of the blues, and Kelley’s progressive blues rock guitar wails while his voice lays it down thick.  This four-song EP is an impressive start, but we want to hear more, much more.  Kelley and his band truly rock it out on the opening track, “Nobody Wins,” with its socially conscious message that nobody wins with racism or hatred.  “Sweet Memory” has the influence of 60’s/70’s rock acts like Led Zeppelin, Santana and Jimi Hendrix with a trace of the blues to keep it honest.  They slow things down with a rocking guitar solo instrumental on “Forevermore” before closing out the EP with “It’s Almost Game Time,” a southern rock tinged blues masterpiece that leaves the listener anxiously waiting for the next installment.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  VK

Album Name:  Terms & Conditions

Label:  112 Records

Genre:  Americana/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  What Makes Sense; 2.  Terms & Conditions; 3.  Even the Devil Cries; 4.  Edge of the World; 5.  Take the Chance; 6.  Common Ground; 7.  Never Afraid; 8.  I’ve Learned a Lot; 9.  Radiate and Glow

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Mellow folk/Americana is what you will get from VK.  The title track adds in piano and fiddle and has a sound reminiscent of a carnival.  The vocals are smooth and mellow, with well-crafted lyrics and musical accompaniment that take the entire Americana sound to a new and different level.  This is definitely one of those albums you put on, sit back and relax, allowing the mellow sound to ease your troubled mind.

Recommendation:  We can guarantee you don’t have anything like this in your music library, so do yourself a favor and Get it.

Artist Name:  Candy Ambulance

Album Name:  Spray

Label:  Nashphone Records

Genre:  Grunge/Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Spray; 2.  Weekday; 3.  Cooks in the Kitchen; 4.  Inner Child; 5.  Iowa; 6.  Lips/Dick

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  The sound of Candy Ambulance is like the B-52’s on crack.  It is intense, energetic and fun, especially the title track.  On “Weekday,” that influence turns to Blondie, but continues with the fun.  Just be aware that the songs are laden with F-bombs, especially “Weekday,” “Cooks in the Kitchen,” and “Iowa.”  Other than that, if we could contain the energy in these tracks, we would never have to depend on oil for our power needs.

Recommendation:  Interesting EP that is not for everyone.  If you don’t mind the expletives, and concentrate on the music, the first two tracks are worth the price of the EP.

Artist Name:  Josh Mover & the Shakers

Album Name:  Into a Ghost

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Box in the Sky; 2.  When I Steal Your Heart; 3.  Park Benches; 4.  How can I Compete With That?; 5.  Into a Ghost

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  One of the most interesting things about this CD is the fact that it was recorded during a whirlwind span of two days, and includes many local Toronto musicians, including Ben Reinhartz (Dilly Dally), Mathew Wronski (The Sulks), Joseph Landau (ex Formalists), Will Hunter (The Nutrients) and Clara Klein.  It was mastered by David Newfeld (Broken Social Scene and recorded and mixed at Union Sound Company by Ian Gomes (Odonis Odonis, Teenanger).  It’s indie rock sound contains elements of punk with fun pop hooks, and should appeal to most lovers of indie rock.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth a listen, we recommend you Get it.

Artist Name:  The Lovely Eggs

Album Name:  This is Eggland

Label:  Egg Records

Genre:  Punk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Hello I am Your Sun; 2.  Wiggy Giggy; 3.  Dickhead; 4.  I Shouldn’t Have Said That; 5.  Return of Witchcraft; 6.  I’m With You; 7.  Repeat It; 8.  Witchcraft; 9.  Big Sea; 10.  Let me Observe; 11.  Would you F*ck

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Long a leading member of the British Underground music scene, The Lovely Eggs bring an overall harder edge to their punk sound with their latest effort.  The first two tracks, though, is closer to indie rock than punk.  Appropriately enough, “Dickhead” is the first of the harder songs, and they continue from that point until “Big Sea,” which returns to the indie rock sound.

Recommendation:  If you love punk rock, and harder indie rock, then this is just up your alley.  If not, then just forget it.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Larry Lacerte, Ghost of You, Lomboy, Marieme, Jamison Isaak

It’s Thursday, and we are so thankful to be able to continually bring you new and exciting indie artists to check out.  We are also so thankful to be able to host one of the biggest documentary film festivals in the country, and are having a blast volunteering in support of the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.  Here are five more artists that are worthy of your attention.

Artist Name:  Larry Lacerte

Album Name:  Dreaming of the Ways

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Dreaming of the Ways; 2.  Work of Love; 3.  One More Whiskey; 4.  Love me Wrong; 5.  Alone

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We met Larry Lacerte at last year’s Durango Songwriters Expo and were impressed with his style.  He has just released his first studio EP, and it has lived up to the standards he demonstrated at Durango.  It is the perfect cross-over between Roots Rock, Americana and Country, and should do well in any of those formats.  The songs are well crafted and feature the perfect country voice of Lacerte.  We especially love the banjo on “Work of Love,” as well as the amazing slide guitar on “One More Whiskey.”  “Love me Wrong” reminds us of a cross between Jason Aldean and Clint Black.  He closes the all-too-short five-song EP with “Alone,” which reminds us many of our greatest accomplishments happen when we are forging our own way.  We can’t wait for what’s next for this talented indie artist.

Recommendation:  You should definitely Get this one.  It has all the makings of a breakout hit.

Artist Name:  Ghost of You

Album Name:  Black Yoga

Label:  Indies Scope

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Recognize; 2.  Break Into Eden; 3.  Skeleton; 4.  Locust; 5.  Tempest; 6.  Feast; 7.  The Ark Won’t Come; 8.  A Rifle and a Spoon

Publicist:  Indies Scope

Review:  All the way from the Czech Republic comes Ghost of You, who bill themselves as psychedelic art-rock.  We think they are more than that.  The first track, “Recognize” is eerily reminiscent of U2, while “Break into Eden,” with its amazing bass work, and “Skeleton” have more of a techno sound.  In fact, that tag applies to the majority of the album.  This music would do well in the EDM/Dance scene, so DJ’s take notice.  They have accomplished their mission of taking rock into a different arena.  Well done.

Recommendation:  Give these guys a chance, America, and check out the European rock scene.

Artist Name:  Lomboy

Album Name:  Warped Caress

Label:  Cracki Records

Genre:  Dream Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Alien Lady; 2.  Worth to You; 3.  Loverboy; 4.  Love Ain’t got the Groove; 5.  Director’s Paralysis

Publicist:  Practise Music

Review:  Lomboy splits her time between Paris and Tokyo, with backing bands in both cities.  Her music has an 80’s pop feel, reminiscent of Madonna, and is perfect for radio.  Her music is dreamy and airy, with heavenly vocals on top of a dance soundtrack that is just as enjoyable to listen to as it is to dance to.  Her sound is multi-dimensional, with “Alien Lady” being more of a dance track while “Worth to You,” with its stunning flute solos, a very dreamy pop sound that is perfect for chill time.  On “Loverboy,” she incorporates her Japanese influence while the overall track is reminiscent of a cross between Enya and Dido.

Recommendation:  Don’t pass this one up.  Get it today.

Artist Name:  Marieme

Album Name:  Marieme

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Leave; 2.  Be the Change (The Shelter); 3.  Ask for Help

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Senegalese-native Marieme is taking America by storm with her powerful voice and timely, socially-driven lyrics.  Her style is similar to such other powerful artists as Erykah Badu, Billie Holiday and Lauryn Hill.  The emotion behind the lead track, “Leave,” conveys what it was like to leave her native country and come to America to start fresh.  The second track, “Be the Change (The Shelter,” is a moving ballad that compels us to not wait for others to lead the charge for change, but to be the one that does it.  Her final track, “Ask for Help,” is the corresponding call for action.  We feel Marieme has a huge future in this business.

Recommendation:  This is our pick of the month.  Get it immediately.

Artist Name:  Jamison Isaak

Album Name:  EP1

Label:  FLORA

Genre:  Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Sharalee; 2.  Upstairs; 3.  Wind; 4.  More

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Jamison Isaak has been making music under the monikers Teen Daze, Two Bicycles and Pacific Coliseum for years, but this is his first time recording under his own name.  His music is meditative, reflective and perfect for chilling.  It explores the beauty of piano and pedal steel guitar, and fills the room with such calm that the listener can relax and reflect.  He is already getting critical praise from the likes of NPR, and he lives up to the hype.

Recommendation:  If you enjoy a musical interlude while you meditate, or just appreciate great music, then you must Get this one.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Kevin Fisher, Johnny Tucker, Barren Womb, Viv and the Revival, Thrillchaser

Happy Hump Day!  It’s beautiful here in Montana, although a little cold, but that is not keeping the crowds away from the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.  We are having a blast presenting these documentaries, and can hardly believe that the Festival is almost over.  At least we have some more indie artists to review, so here we go with five more.

Artist Name:  Kevin Fisher

Album Name:  Beer Me

Label:  37 Records

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Beer; 2.  Beer Me; 3.  Dog Beers; 4.  I Wish you  Were Beer; 5.  Better Beer; 6.  To Beer or not to Beer; 7.  I Like Beer; 8.  Beer in the Fridge; 9.  Beerly Beloved; 10.  Beer Thirty; 11.  Beer Blue Sky; 12.  Last Call

Publicist:  McJames Music

Review:  Beer Me was released last October.  Since then, Kevin Fisher has released a couple of singles.  His current single, “Beer Thirty,” is currently sitting at #1 on the Hot Disk UK charts for the third week in a row.  The album contains a 12-pack of songs about beer with titles that are tongue in cheek, and feature co-writes on seven of the tunes.   Fisher has that perfect voice for country music, and the songs are truly radio ready gems for die-hard country fans that love their beer.  Our favorite cuts are the title track, “Dog Beers,” “Better Beer,” “Beer in the Fridge,” “Beer Thirty,” and “Last Call.”

Recommendation:  If you love country music, or beer in general, you will get a kick out of this CD.  Get it before “Last Call.”

Artist Name:  Johnny Tucker

Album Name:  Seven Day Blues

Label:  Highjohn Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1,  Talkin’ About you Baby; 2.  Tired of Doing Nothing; 3.  Why do you let me Down so Hard; 4.  Love and Appreciation (to Georgia); 5.  Seven Day Blues; 6.  Come on Home With Me; 7.  Tell you All; 8.  Something I Want to Tell You; 9.  Gonna Give you one More Chance; 10.  I Wanna do It; 11.  Do Right Man; 12.  One of These Days; 13.  I Can’t Wait; 14.  Listen Everybody; 15.  You can Leave my House

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Johnny Tucker broke into the business back in 1964, hooking up with Phillip Walker and singing James Brown.  He later became the drummer for Walker’s band and began touring the world for the next 34 years.  This is his second album since returning to music in 2006, and he has not lost a step.  This time around, he collaborates with such monumental blues players as Big Jon Atkinson, Bob Corritore and Kid Ramos in creating this perfect 15-song disc that celebrates the beauty of traditional blues.  His voice brings back memories of some of his peers, like Muddy Waters, BB King and Fats Domino.  This is an album to relish and savor.  Just put it on, sit back, and reminisce about the return of the glory days of the blues.

Recommendation:  If you are a music historian, or simply love the blues, you simply must Get this one.  It is a national treasure.

Artist Name:  Barren Womb

Album Name:  Old Money / New Lows

Label:  Spartan Records

Genre:  Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Crook Look; 2.  Mystery Meat; 3.  Theory of Anything; 4.  Slumlord Millionaire; 5.  Cave Dweller; 6.  Drive-Thru Liquor Store; 7.  Mad 187 Skills; 8.  Russian Hankerchief

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Norwegian rockers Barren Womb have returned with a new album, nearly three years after the last project, and are planning an extensive tour of Europe and Scandinavia to promote their music.  They call their music “Noise Rock,” and the description is apt.  It is a cross between metal and Beastie Boys, with the lyrics more spoken than sung, and a heavy metal/rock musical score.  This music is not for everyone, but true metal-heads will dig it, especially the current single, “Mystery Meat.”

Recommendation:  If you are a lover of metal and/or hard rock, then you should definitely check out Barren Womb.   If not, then you should probably forget it.

Artist Name:  Viv and the Revival

Album Name:  Perfect High

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Perfect High; 2.  Stop my Heart; 3.  Lost in the Fire; 4.  Cannonball; 5.  Nikki

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Viv and the Revival have a perfect radio sound that is missing from current programming.  From the amazing title track through the final notes of “Nikki,” this band gives us incredible music, with an indie rock sound that is perfect for Top 40, as well as serious consideration by music supervisors looking for hot tunes to incorporate into television and film projects.  We really love the rocking “Stop my Heart,” with its killer guitar riffs, but all five songs are hot.  We can’t wait to hear what they come up with next.

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

Artist Name:  Thrillchaser

Album Name:  A Lot Like Love

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Emptiness; 2.  Out of our Minds; 3.  A Lot Like Love; 4.  Like That; 5.  Wildflower; 6.  Hold on to the Night; 7.  fivetwentyfive; 8.  Invisible; 9.  Still got a Hold on Me; 10.  Juliet

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  Thrillchaser, formerly known as American Wolves, have returned to bring us incredible pop/rock tunes.  As American Wolves, they had a hit single with “Part of Me,” which went viral on YouTube and Spotify, and their new tunes as Thrillchaser will surely exceed that high bar they set.  Thrillchaser has released a lyric video for their first single, “Wildflower,” which has gained them 10.1K Facebook fans in only three weeks.  Clearly this band is on to something, and radio programmers and music supervisors need to stand up and take notice of their music.  This is pop music that appeals to all ages, and is just what our stale Top 40 stations need to perk up their listeners.  “Hold on to the Night” is already being featured on idobi radio.  Don’t be surprised to see this one on the list of Grammy nominees next year.  If the Academy overlooks this band, they are doing everyone a disservice.

Recommendation:  If you love music, then this band MUST be on  your radar.  Drop everything and Get it now.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Susan Williams and the Wright Groove, Sly and Robbie meet Dubmatix, Ann, Cvltvre, The Reverend Shawn Amos

Greeting from the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival!  We are actively engaged in the Festival, but taking time to bring you review of five new artists.  We hope you enjoy them.

Artist Name:  Susan Williams & The Wright Groove

Album Name:  It’s About Time

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Tell me you Love Me; 2.  Love What U Do; 3.  Loving U From a Distance; 4.  Shame on You; 5.  I’m Sorry; 6.  Meet me in the Middle; 7.  Another Thing Coming; 8.  One Way Street; 9.  Please Come Back to Me; 10.  Keep Moving On; 11.  Too Little Too Late

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  Susan Williams is an iconic Chicago-based blues bassist who, along with her band The Wright Groove, is releasing their debut album.  They also competed in this year’s International Blues Challenge.  The album is chock full of amazing blues riffs, dynamic keys and kick-ass progressive and traditional blues featuring the soulful voice of Williams, who penned nine of the album’s eleven tracks.  They have definitely set the bar high for their next project, and we fully believe that they will continue to excel.  Our favorites include “Tell me you Love Me,” “Love What U Do,” “Love U From a Distance,” “I’m Sorry,” “Another Thing Coming,” “One Way Street,” “Please Come Back to Me,” and “Keep Moving On” – practically the entire album.

Recommendation:  Don’t even hesitate, just Get this one.

Artist Name:  Sly & Robbie meet Dubmatix

Album Name:  Overdubbed

Label:  Echo Beach

Genre:  Dubstep, Triphop/Electronic, Reggae

Track Listing:  1.  Dictionary; 2.  Smoothie (ft. Prince Alla, Screechy Dan, Megative); 3.  Riding East; 4.  Great Escape; 5.  Great Wall

Publicist:  RDX Promo

Review:  Jamaican’s Sly Dunbar (drummer) and Robbie Shakespeare (bassist) have combined with Canadian Dubmatix to produce this interesting dance mix.  The tracks range from dubstep to reggae to breakbeat, triphot, Afro-Brazilian and electronic, but all of them are fun to listen and dance to.  We are still amazed at the level of talent in the international indie community, and are so happy to be part of spreading this music to America.  This album should be of interest to every dance DJ out there looking for great mixes.

Recommendation:  If you are a DJ, we strongly encourage you to check out this collaboration.  If you just love reggae music, then this is the one for you.

Artist Name:  Ann

Album Name:  Let Go

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  R&B/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Try (ft. Will Gittens); 2.  Todd’s Song; 3.  So Familiar; 4.  Let Go

Publicist:  Camp Entertainment Worldwide

Review:  Ann was born in Nairobi, Kenya but now calls Worcester, Massachusetts her home.  She has competed on such shows as X-Factor and American Idol, and has interestingly enough decided to release her four track EP as a series of audio only tracks on YouTube.   She has also chosen to forego Facebook and instead base her social media through Instagram and Twitter.  Please be advised that these songs are rated Mature (language).  The first track is a duet with Will Gittens that is slow, sexy and steamy.    The second is a slam at a former boyfriend.

Recommendation:  This one deserves to be checked out simply because of its uniqueness.  We think the voice will grab you and keep you.

Artist Name:  Cvltvre

Album Name:  All Life Is // Act 1:  An Act of Letting Go

Label:  Standby Records

Genre:   Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Blame; 2.  Birthday Song; 3.  Progression; 4.  Drown; 5.  Pour These Words

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Cvltvre is an Inland Empire (California) based rock band releasing their second EP, the first of a four-part series dealing with self-purpose and identity.  “Drown,” the fourth track is the first single off the EP,  They have also released a music video for the second track, “Birthday Song,” a rocking ballad.  In fact, the musical diversity of this EP is what sets it apart from its peers, and make Cvltvre a band worthy of industry attention.

Recommendation:  If you love rock, definitely check this one out.

Artist Name:  The Reverend Shawn Amos

Album Name:  The Reverend Shawn Amos Breaks it Down

Label:  Put Together Records

Genre:  Blues/Gospel

Track Listing:  1,  Moved; 2.  2017; 3.  Hold Hands; 4.  The Jean Genie; 5.   Freedom Suite – Uncle Tom’s Prayer; 6.  Freedom Suite – Does my Life Matter; 7.  Freedom Suite – (We’ve got to) Come Together; 8.  Ain’t Gonna Name Names; 9.  (What’s so Funny ‘Bout) Peace, Love and Understanding

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  This is an interesting effort, delivering a message of freedom and the search for civil rights in the form of the blues, including a three-song “Freedom Suite” that includes an acapella reading of Uncle Tom’s Prayer before expounding on the words of Booker T. Washington and Martin Luther King.  The album plays like a passion play, and needs to be listened to in its entirety without skipping around.  All we can say is “Preach it.”

Recommendation:  If you are at all concerned about civil rights, then this one is a must for you.  Hopefully it will empower change in this world.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 7

Mother Nature has made it clear these past few days that she’s not ready for spring yet here in Montana, as we have been bombarded with snow, high winds and sub-zero temperatures.  Regardless of the weather, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival kicked off last Friday night with a sold-out screening of the film Dark Money, attended by our very own Governor.  Attendance at other screenings on Saturday, Sunday and today have been high, including quite a few sell-outs, including Forever B, the one I attended tonight about kidnap victim Jan Broberg, a child kidnap victim and author of Loss of Innocence.

We have a bit of news for you today, as well as four new singles and three new music videos, so let’s get to it.

DIANA REIN LAUNCHES CROWD-FUNDING CAMPAIGN

Referred to as the “The Six-String Siren,” LA Music Critic Award winner Diana Rein has announced the launch of a crowd-funding campaign for her upcoming album, Queen Of My Castle. The follow-up to her critically-lauded 2016 release Long Road, Queen Of My Castle is being co-produced by Michael Leasure (drummer extraordinaire with the Walter Trout Band).

“The new album is a collection of 15 songs, with one of those songs being a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan,” says Rein, just back from representing Guitar Girl Magazine at the 2018 NAMM Conference.  Rein is the featured artist for the month of April in their 2018 Calendar.  “There’s a lot of traditional blues, as well as high energy, upbeat, and blues-rock songs that I know you guys will love. This album will be lucky #3 for me and my first full-band album.  I loved making my last record on my own, but I am really looking forward to challenging myself this time around and collaborating with the pros.”

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL NEWS

The Hollywood Fringe Festival is getting ready for their ninth run June 7-24, and is looking for interns and volunteers, specifically in the areas of Fringe Central Set Design, Events, Volunteer Coordinator and Cabaret.  Interning with the Fringe is the best way to get hands on experience behind the scenes of the largest performing arts festival in the west.  Interns work directly with Fringe staff to help run various aspects of the festival.  Click the link for position details.  If you are interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to internships@hollywoodfringe.org.  Please specify which position you are interested in.  The deadline to apply is April 1.

NEW SINGLES

Here’s the first single from the forthcoming album People Person by Everett Bird.  The single is entitled “Bucket of Dark Meat,” and we think you’ll like it.  It is different from many of the songs featured here, so get ready to try something new.

https://soundcloud.com/royalmountain/03-bucket-of-dark-meat/s-5vsqk?in=royalmountain/sets/everett-bird-people-person/s-TOwD8

Next up is “The Monster” from LA based garage rock band Bird Concerns.  This one truly rocks.

Our third single today is from folk singer songwriter Brown Kid.  It is definitely a step down energy wise from the previous song, but it is different enough to pass on to you.  The song is entiled “Sunrise” and we want to hear your feedback.

https://soundcloud.com/brown_kid_music/sunrise-single

Our final single today is from another LA Music Critic Award winner, Sleep Machine.  They are releasing their newest album one song at a time.  Here is “Mother.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our favorite Italian rock band is back with another hot video.  Check out “Never Obey” from Black Mamba.  We guarantee this one will rock your sock.

Our next video is the latest from Allison Iraheta and Mathew Hager, aka Halo Circus.  It is a video for their single “Narcissist,” which we debuted two weeks ago.  Please let us know what you think.

Blue Élan Records continues to bring back classic bands, and the latest to return is Fanny Walked the Earth.  Here is the video for “Lured Away,” their first single in 34 years.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Jeremy Romeo, Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra, The Crowleys, Earwig, Kyler England

We made it to Friday and the weekend.  It’s gonna be a busy one for us with opening night of the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival tonight.  The opening night movie is Dark Money, the story of how Montana stopped the influx of corporate money in state and local political campaigns.  Governor Bullock will be among the dignitaries attending tonight’s screening, so it should be an interesting evening.  In the meantime, we have five more artists to review, including a couple of our favorites.  Let’s get started.

Artist Name:  Jeremy Romeo

Album Name:  All You’re Meant to Be

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock/Country

Track Listing:  1.  This is Home; 2.  Lights of Boston; 3.  Here With You; 4.  Said and Done; 5.  All You’re Meant to Be; 6.  See you Soon

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Aussie Jeremy Romeo is a rising star in his own country and ready to expand his musical reach to America.  He has a sound similar to Keith Urban meets the Plain White T’s, a mixture of pop, rock and country.  His songs are well crafted and his unique soaring voice is perfectly suited to this type of music.  All six songs are great and deserve attention for American radio station managers.  Don’t be surprised to see Romeo become the latest Aussie musician to make it in America.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you check out this rising star before he becomes too big and  Get his EP.

Artist Name:  Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra

Album Name:  Stereoscope

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Firmament; 2.  Southern Road; 3.  Ghost; 4.  Fish in a Rut; 5.  Come and go Heartbeat; 6.  Hard Time Killing Floor Blues; 7.  Stereoscope; 8.  Off and on Again; 9.  Let the Wind In; 10.  Battlefields; 11.  Spacehorse

Publicist:  Big Picture Media

Review:  Just when you think you’ve heard everything possible within the roots/Americana genre, a group like Marty O’Reilly and the Old Soul Orchestra reinvent the genre.  Mixing elements of blues, swing, country and traditional Americana into their own unique style is what makes this group a driving force in the Americana community, and this album a preview of what is yet to come to one of the most interesting and diverse genres in American music.  With raspy vocals, often discordant strings, a driving rhythm section, songs that tell a story and the accompanying soundtrack to vividly paint the picture, we are impressed with the quality and foresight of this album.  We love this album, but our favorites are “Southern Road,” “Ghost,” “Fish in a Rut,” “Off and on Again,” “Battlefields,” and “Spacehorse.”

Recommendation:  This album is great for those music lovers that like to be on the cutting edge.  We recommend you Get this one.

Artist Name:  The Crowleys

Album Name:  Colours Change Their Tones

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Pink Rainbows; 2.  Midnight Blue; 3.  Stargazer; 4.  Girl What; 5.  L.A. Sunset; 6.  Pansy Party Extravaganza

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:   The Crowleys bring us cosmic electronic pop, with airy sounds that soar above the music, creating an audio and visual picture that is all too vivid.  We only wish there were more than six songs to enjoy.  These songs would be excellent placement material for television and movies, and music supervisors would be wise to check out their entire catalog of musical treasures.  For music lovers, the uniqueness of their sound will make a welcome addition to your personal music library.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.  It will grow on you.

Artist Name:  Earwig

Album Name:  Gibson Under Mountain

Label:  Lizard Family Music

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Trees; 2.  Star Cross’d; 3.  Not About You; 4.  Her Heart; 5.  Lovesong Cockroach; 6.  Sleepyhead; 7.  Next Christmas; 8.  Glorious & Gloom; 9.  Wicked; 10.  Shiny Morning; 11.  Rumplestiltskin

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This album was originally released back in 2011, but the band has decided to remix it and release it again this month, in anticipation of a brand new album to be released later this year.  It was originally mixed and produced by Mike Landolt, who has also done great work with Maroon 5 and the Spin Doctors, and contains several tracks that are radio-ready, reminiscent of the Gin Blossoms and the Spin Doctors.  Earwig has always been an underground favorite, and maybe the attention that is sure to come will help elevate them to a more recognizable and household band.  The band’s high intensity rock is evident from the beginning of the first track, “Trees,” and continues throughout this album.  Our favorites include “Star Cross’d,” “Not About You,” “Sleepyhead,” “Next Christmas,” “Wicked,” and “Shiny Morning.”

Recommendation:  This is the indie rock band of the future, available now.  Don’t miss this opportunity to Get one of their best offerings.

Artist Name:  Kyler England

Album Name:  The Wilderness

Label:  Gypsy Rock Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Best is yet to Come; 2.  Little Light; 3.  Holding up the Sky; 4.  Never Gonna get Over You; 5.  Give up the Ghost

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Kyler England has been a successful singer-songwriter in Los Angeles long  before she joined up with two of her friends, Gabriel Mann and Adrienne Gonzales to form The Rescues.  The release of this new EP about heartbreak and healing comes on the one year anniversary of finding out she was going to have a baby.  She transparently discusses her infertility and pregnancy loss on the way to having her son.   All five songs are incredible, as we have come to expect from England.  The songs would also easily translate into the three-part harmonies of The Rescues.  As England so aptly says in the first track, “The Best is Yet to Come.”  We can hardly wait for her next inspired tracks.

Recommendation:  Don’t think twice.  Get this one now!