Category: Durango Songwriters Expo

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Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019 – vol. 27

As we end September and head into October, we are so happy that Patrick O’Heffernan has joined us as a staff writer.  His first review was just published, so check  it out and make sure you subscribe to the Blog so you don’t miss anything.  There’s a lot happening so let’s get right to it.

DURANGO SONGWRITERS EXPO THIS WEEKEND

If you’ve followed our blog for any period of time, then you know how important we think the Durango Songwriters Expo is.  It has launched the careers of quite a few artists, including Alissa Moreno, Tim Fagan and Meghan Trainor.  Not only that, but several of the attendees have won LA Music Critic Awards, including recent winners Jordan Siwek and Scott Krippayne aka PAEHNE.

We have been involved with it for several years and our founder has been part of a panel there as well.  Due to our recent move to Oklahoma City, we are unable to attend this year’s event, which opens on Wednesday night with a showcase in nearby Denver before officially kicking off with a showcase on Thursday and then runs Friday and Saturday at the Omni Hotel in Westminster, Colorado.  The event culminates with a concert on Saturday night which always features the legendary Big Al Anderson.  This year he is joined by Songwriters Hall of Fame member Tom Douglas, major hit songwriter Kate York (Little Big Town, Fall Out Boy) and Grammy-winning songwriter Fagan.  The Saturday concert is open to the public and tickets are available at the door.

OKLAHOMA CITY HAS A NEW FRINGE FESTIVAL

The first Fringe Festival was held in Edinburgh, Scotland and has grown to include Festivals around the world, including the Hollywood Fringe Festival, which is one of the biggest ones in North America.  Oklahoma City has now joined that elite group with the debut of Theatre Crude Fringe Festival, which opened on September 25 and runs through October 6.  The Capitol View Event Center is hosting the Festival.  For more information, click on their website.

INDIE FILM ‘MICKEY AND THE BEAR’ TO DEBUT AT MONTANA FILM FESTIVAL

Mickey and the Bear, an indie film set in Montana, will premiere at this year’s Montana Film Festival on Thursday, October 3 at 6 p.m. at the iconic Roxy Theater in Missoula before heading out on a tour of Montana.  If you are in Montana, we highly recommend you check it out.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Australian artist Riebourne.  We love her voice and think she has a great chance of cracking the American Top 40 scene with “Venom.”

Next up is LCBTQ+ artist Déyyess, who has a powerful message coupled with equally powerful vocals.  We think she is definitely an artist on the rise and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

https://soundcloud.com/deyyess/no-mans-land

Single number three is from pop duo Rule of Young, which we think deserves serious and heavy rotation on radio.  Check out “Lie Better.”  We can’t get enough of their harmonies and musicality.

Our musical voyage next takes us to Toronto for the alt-rock sound of Contour‘s new song, “Above You.”  Great vocals and a serious message  highlight this brilliant song.  Enjoy.

Our final single this week is a retro throwback to the days of disco.  Check out Sweetwood and their latest tune, “One and Only Lover.”  We guarantee this one will get you on the dance floor.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video is from another of the amazing artists at Blue Élan Records, Roan Yellowthorn.  We think she has truly nailed it with her latest, “Indigo.”  Let us know what you think.

From the beauty of the previous video we next present the stark reality of the rocking sound of Makes my Blood Dance on their new video “Sick as our Secrets.”  This one has a lot of food for thoughts and is truly visually stunning, with live concert footage included.

Our third video is an upbeat pop tune from producer Ferris Pier that features to amazing vocals of The Voice stand-out Abby Cates on the song, “Lift me Up.”  If this one doesn’t lift your spirits, nothing will.

Next up is the R&B/hip hop sound of The Greys on their latest “Drama.”  We love this one and would love to see them featured on Empire.

We close out this edition with a dark cover of the classic Pink Floyd song, “Another Brick in the Wall.”  This version shows a dynamic creative mind and we think it will quickly become a favorite on its own merits.  Check out LA’s own Nomad and Lola.

 

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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.

 

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Durango Songwriters Expo Get it or Forget it Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Whitney Lusk, Zoey Clarke, Xs and ARROWs, Dopapod, POLLENS

*Started writing this last night but didn’t finish it, so it’s now Christmas Eve *

It’s the Eve of the Eve and we’re still at work reviewing the myriad of new releases we have received.  We have another five for you today, which you can check out on your holiday downtime.  Enjoy these delicacies.

Artist Name:  Whitney Lusk

Album Name:  This is Who I Am

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Country/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Still the One You Want (pop); 2.  I’m Better Off; 3.  Your Strong; 4.  Won’t Run Away; 5.  Lack of Love; 6.  Heaven’s got a Good One; 7.  Where we Got it (ft. Kylee & Andrew Lusk); 8.  Who I Am; 9.  Still the one you Want (country)

Publicist:  None

Review:  We first heard Whitney Lusk at the Durango Songwriters Expo in Denver this past October, and were impressed by this young woman’s songwriting chops.  She is definitely one of the voices of the future, and her songs are very radio friendly, both country and pop.  She deserves some serious industry consideration, and we believe this album is the perfect vehicle to garner that attention.  She reminds us of a younger Jessica Andrews, and even Taylor Swift, when they first broke into country radio.  Her country instrumentation is perfect for her sweet, airy voice and her storytelling songs perfectly fit that genre.  There is not a weak song on this album.  Kudos to Joel Pack for his production and to Stephan Hawkes for his mastering of this gem, one of the best debut albums we have reviewed this year.

Recommendation:  A true no-brainer, you simply MUST Get this one!

Artist Name:  Zoey Clarke

Album Name:  Creative Juices

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  EDM/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Wonder Woman; 2.  Bernadine; 3.  Rewind; 4.  Shots Fired; 5.  Sometime; 6.  Gone; 7.  That Part

Publicist:  First Born Music and Entertainment

Review:  We love that this EP is introduced/hosted by DJ Scream, and could easily hear these songs at our local club.  This music sets your body to rocking and begs you to get out on the dance floor and boogie.  The first track is pure dance and then an awesome R&B vibe comes out of the second and third tracks.  Just watch out for the explicit language on “Bernardine.”  The EDM vibe returns on “Shots Fired” and “Sometime” before she closes out the last two tracks back in the R&B camp.  Every one of these songs is truly worthy of industry attention.  We look forward to hearing more from this fresh new voice.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one – you’ll be dancing in no time.

Artist Name:  Xs and ARROWs

Album Name:  From Here

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Missing; 2.  Fire From Gold; 3.  Par Ici; 4.  Questions (ft. Glen Hansard)

Publicist:  None

Review:  This amazing trio of Los Angeles ladies began their career as a quartet under the band name EXIT, and even opened for U2 at the Staples Center for a performance of “Out of Control.”  This version has them more subdued but no less intoxicating, with their steady rhythm, soaring vocals and thoughtful lyrics.  We really love the guest vocals of Glen Hansard on “Questions.”  The industry needs to wake up and see what kind of homegrown talent exists in their own city.  This band deserves their turn on the world’s stage, and we truly believe they will achieve that.  Our only complaint is that this 4-song is just too short, and we can’t wait to hear more.

Recommendation:  Be the first to jump on this bandwagon before their train leaves the station.  Get their debut EP now.

Artist Name:  Dōpapod

Album Name:  MEGAGEM

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Prog Rock/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Plaese Haalp; 2.  Piazole; 3.  Zonk; 4.  Mucho; 5.  Confabulation; 6.  Turn by Turn; 7.  Buster Brown; 8.  Starfish

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  OMG – we were not prepared for the awesomeness that is Dōpapod!  Where have they been hiding?  MEGAGEM is their fifth studio album, and we are in love with it.  It’s as if the Beatles joined up with Led Zeppelin, and we can’t stop listening.  Based on what we hear on this album, this band deserves their upcoming sabbatical, and they have left a legacy to tide us over until the return in 2019.  We never would have believed that a prog rock band could create dance instrumental music, but check out “Piazole” and “Zonk” to see what we mean.  The band’s instrumental flexibility reminds us of Dick Dale.  From surprise we moved to utter amazement on the incredible Spanish track “Mucho,” which has some of the meanest keys we’ve heard since our last Dave Yaden show.   They return to the prog rock vibe for the rest of the album, and especially shine on “Confabulation” and “Buster Brown,” which has an almost jazzy feel.  Truth be told, every track is a winner.

Recommendation:  Get up and Get it. NOW!

Artist Name:  POLLENS

Album Name:  Mister Manufacture

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Avant-pop/experimental indie rock

Track Listing:  1.  Close; 2.  Dinosaurs; 3.  J-Train; 4.  Looks; 5.  Not Talking; 6.  Words

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Pollens is not your “band next door.”  They play experimental music utilizing percussion, shouting and ambient noise, and they have a lot to say.  This unusual duo consists of two unnamed musicians who are truly modern-day beatniks, reciting poetry with a myriad of musical sounds underscoring their lyrics.  Some of the songs are nonsensical while others actually seem to be trying to espouse their view of modern day life.  The music is by no means commercial, but we’re sure there are a few people who would enjoy their truly unique sound.  “Looks” and “Words” are the best tracks.

Recommendation:  Unless you are truly eclectic in your musical tastes, or like the experimental vibe, it might be best to Forget this one.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 42

What a wonderful Veterans Day weekend!  All of our favorite sports teams – Griz, Deacons and Wizards – won their games and the Dolphins play tonight on Monday Night Football.  The only thing that can top that is great indie music, and we have that in spades!

NINA STOREY LAUNCHES ASTRAL QUEEN

One of our favorite indie musicians, Nina Storey, recently joined with Mark McGee and launched their new techno-pop band Astral Queen.  The first single, “Take  it all the Way,” is a smash and the obvious next step in the evolution of her music.  Check it out below, and don’t forget to subscribe to her amazing blog Strangely Optimistic, as well.

THE CREAM CONTINUES TO RISE WITH MILCK’s REMAKE OF HER VIRAL HIT, “QUIET” 

In light of the recent news about sexual assault in the entertainment industry, MILCK has remade her video for  “Quiet.”  We think it is one of the most powerful videos we have ever seen, both visually and sonically.  We especially love the inclusion of the orchestra, as well as the multiple story lines.  Thank you Atlantic Records for allowing your artist to speak her mind and share this amazing song, which should help in bringing closure to these victims.

DAVID GARFIELD TEAMS WITH SMOKEY ROBINSON FOR NEW SINGLE

The new single by David Garfield, “I Lied,” ft. J. Paris, was co-written by the one and only Smokey Robinson.  The vocals of J. Paris soar on wings of angels, perfectly highlighting the instrumental soundtrack provided by Garfield.  The country vibe fits perfectly with the strings and vocals to highlight this “instant classic.”  We guarantee this one will make your day.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is “Common Sense,” the latest from Down and Outlaws, a San Francisco-based rock and roll quartet.  This one is sure to get your new week off to a rocking start.

Our second new single this week is from Australian brother duo Sellars.  “Linear Time” is a classic rock tune that will surely stand the test of time.  Welcome to the indie rock world, Sellars.  We look forward to hearing much more from them in the future.

Last but not least, here is “The Weight” (ft. Sickflip), from FRASE, an electronic artist from Montreal.   Let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

“Take Your Time” by Lender is an amazing dance video that has been making the film festival circuit, garnering critical and fan praise and support.  We think it is an artistic masterpiece.  Let us know what you think.

Next up is “Give Erin a Compliment (so Kind)” ft, April Olsen, the latest single from Jaye Bartell.  It is an interesting Americana song that should stimulate your senses as you begin a new week.

Our last new video this week is a lyric video from Durango Songwriter Expo alum Rachel Price.  Check out “Love is War” and have a great week.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Chris Daniels and the Kings, Hodera, Billy Burnette, Cairo Knife Fight

Tuesday was Election Day here in Montana for a plethora of local officials, including our mayor, judges and city council.  Seems like a perfect day to review some new indie music, and vote on our favorites.  We’ve got four albums for you today, including an artist we recently met at the Durango Songwriters Expo in Denver last month.  Enjoy these new tunes and let us know what you think.

Artist Name:  Chris Daniels and The Kings (with Freddi Gowdy)

Album Name:  Blues with Horns, Volume 1

Label:  Moon Voyage Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Sweet Memphis; 2.  Fried Food/Hard Liquor; 3.  Get up off the Funk; 4.  Soothe me Baby; 5.  Wouldn’t Treat a Dog (the way you Treated Me); 6.  Baby’s in Love with the Radio; 7.  Can’t Even do Wrong Right; 8.  You can Stay but That Noise Must Go; 9.  Them Changes; 10.  Rain Check

Publicist:  HyPR Media

Review:  I recently served with Chris Daniels on the DIY panel at the Durango Songwriters Expo last month, where we discussed his latest project.  After listening to the first track, “Sweet Memphis,” I was amazed that he has previously released 14 albums but had never crossed my radar, because this man and his music personifies old time blues, complete with an amazing horn section that rivals the Tower of Power horns.  This album has everything you like in the blues – great sax and horns, a powerful vocal with amazing harmonies, great songwriting, and that soulful harmonica rising above it all.  Every musician in this band is a stand-out, and the recent addition of Freddi Gowdy on vocals creates a special vocal harmony that, to quote track four, “is soothing for me.”  This one is perfect for repeated listens, as you will hear different things every time you listen.  Our favorite tracks include “Fried Food/Hard Liquor,” “Get up off the Funk,” “Soothe me Baby,” “You can Stay but that Noise Must Go,” and “Them Changes.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.  It is one of the best blues albums we have heard in a long time.

Artist Name:  Hodera

Album Name:  First Things First

Label:  Take This to Heart Records

Genre:  Alt-Americana/Roots Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Out of Sync; 2.  Highways; 3.  North Dakota; 4.  Best Intentions; 5.  Four White Walls; 6.  Baltimore; 7.  Just for Today; 8.  The Saddest Sentence; 9.  My Daily Chemicals; 10.  Holding Patterns

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Hodera has a unique sound that incorporates the best of indie rock and Americana music.  Their music is upbeat, with well written lyrics and music, incredible vocals and instrumentation.  The songs are memorable, with catchy melodies, great hooks and a down home sound that makes you want to listen over and over again.  Considering the subject matter, it is amazing how this band makes their message positive, much like The Mavericks’ “All You Ever Do is Bring Me Down.”  Our favorite tracks include “Out of Sync,” “Best Intentions,” “Baltimore,” and “Just for Today.”

Recommendation:  This is a good one for your Americana collection.   Grab it when you can.

Artist Name:  Billy Burnette

Album Name:  Crazy Like Me

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rockabilly/Alt-Country

Track Listing:  1.  Tear it Up; 2.  (All I Can Do Is) Dream You; 3.  Crazy Like Me; 4.  Oh Well; 5.  When I Remember You; 6.  It’s Late; 7.  Nothing to do (and all Night to do it); 8.  Ghost Town; 9.  Do I Ever Cross Your Mind; 10.  She’s Burning the Honky Tonks Down; 11.  She’s Going to win Your Heart; 12.  River of Love; 13.  All Nighter; 14.  Anywhere you Go

Publicist:  MSO PR

Review:  You may or may not know that Billy Burnette was a long-time fixture for Fleetwood Mac, but his latest CD shows that he has the right stuff to make a name for himself as a solo artist.  The sound is very reminiscent of Brian Setzer and the Stray Cats, crossed with a little Jerry Lee Lewis, bringing us back to the early days of rock and roll.  This one is just plain fun, and provides the perfect backdrop for your next friendly get-together.  Our favorite tracks include “Tear it Up,” the title track, “Oh Well,” “It’s Late,” “Ghost Town,” “She’s Going to Win Your Heart,” and “River of Love.”

Recommendation:  If you love classic and original rock and roll and alt-country music, then you owe it to yourself to Get this album.

Artist Name:  Cairo Knife Fight

Album Name:  Seven

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alternative Rock

Track Listing:  1.  (1); 2.  A-Nine; 3.  (5); 4.  Six; 5.  (7); 6.  A-Four; 7.  (9); 8.  A-Seven; 9.  (3); 10.  A-Two; 11. (11); 12.  A-Three; 13.  (12); 14.  A-Eight

Publicist:  HyPR Media

Review:  Cairo Knife Fight is a very unique band that incorporates a radical hard rock soundtrack to support its well-crafted and substantial lyrics that discuss social issues and themes.  Interestingly, there is some rhyme and reason to their uninspiring song titles, as the titles in parenthesis are instrumental interludes between the different songs that are designed by the prefix “A-.”  Their music will get your head banging and your feet stomping while the lyrics will make you stop and think about their message.  The final track has been converted to a music video, which we recommend you check out.

Recommendation:  If you love hard rock acts like AC/DC and Rush, then this just might be the perfect album for you.  For the rest of us, it’s still a worthy addition to our musical libraries.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Canyon City, Monica Chapman, Marc Berger, Alex Mabey

We were so amazed at the level of talent at this year’s Durango Songwriters Expo.  It was our first trip since we moved to Montana, and the talent pool, which has already spawned such acts as Meghan Trainor, Alissa Moreno, Tim Fagan and others just keeps getting better.  Two of our reviews today are artists we saw perform at DSE.  We think all of these reviews will encourage and entice you to continue supporting indie music.

Artist Name:  Canyon City

Album Name:  Constellation

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Our Way; 2.  Find You; 3.  Midnight Flight; 4.  Like I Did; 5.  Train; 6.  For the Day; 7.  Oh my God; 8.  Satellite; 9.  Run; 10.  Be Scared With Me

Publicist:  Red Boot PR

Review:  Canyon City aka Paul Johnson has a sound smooth as silk, with a dreamy voice that will soothe the listener’s soul and provide the perfect background for a major chill session.  His music goes down like a fine glass of wine, warming your body as his vibe eases your tensions and stresses, creating a truly relaxing feel.  This is music that would be at home on Hot AC and AAA stations, as this music demands radio airplay.  From the first track onwards, Canyon City gives you song after song that will change your mind about indie music.  There are no weak tracks on the album, but we really love “Our Way,” the title track (which is also the first single), “Train,” “For the Day,” and “Satellite.”

Recommendation:  This is a must have for your musical collection.  It will soon become one of your favorites, so Get it now and play it often.

Artist Name:  Monica Chapman

Album Name:  Small World

Label:  Live Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  A Shine on Your Shoes; 2.  Goldfinger; 3.  Piel Canela; 4.  Small World; 5.  Caravan; 6.  Baby It’s Cold Outside; 7.  Big Spender; 8.  What Kind of Fool am I; 9.  So in Love; 10.  Orange Colored Sky; 11.  Don’t Explain; 12.  A Foggy Day

Publicist:  None

Review:  Monica Chapman is a Canadian artist who was born in Romania, and teaches jazz in her spare time.  She has gathered a stellar collection of jazz standards and incorporated the incomparable voices of Mike Murley, Reg Schwager and Kevin Turcotte into her sound.  Jazz standards never go out of style, and Chapman has the perfect voice for these songs.   We love great horns, and she uses them to perfection, especially on “A Shine on Your Shoes.”  This is a great soundtrack for your daily or weekly happy hour, and the tunes will surely put a smile on your face.  We love her take on the James Bond classic “Goldfinger,” as well as the Duke Ellington classic “Caravan.”  Other impressive gems are “Baby It’s Cold Outside,” “Big Spender,” and “Orange Colored Sky.”

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, then this is a great album for your collection.

Artist Name:  Marc Berger

Album Name:  Ride

Label:  Real Records

Genre:   Americana/Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Nobody Gonna Ride on the Railroad; 2.  Take it on the Chin; 3.  Ride; 4.  Time Waits for no Man; 5.  Montana; 6.  Twister; 7.  Heavenly Ancients; 8.  Object of my Affection; 9.  Long way from Vixenburg; 10.  A Bottle of Wine, a Suitcase, an Umbrella; 11.  Object of my Affection (instrumental)

Publicist:  None

Review:  Marc Berger has the perfect voice for roots/Americana – full of gravel, spit and determination.  He underscores his gritty sound with a musical background that is soothing, smooth and pure.  The underlying mandolin, accordion, slide guitar and harmonica flow seamlessly with the percussion and acoustic guitar.  This album takes off from the first note and never disappoints.   While every track is wonderful, we particularly love the title track, “Time Waits for no Man,” “Montana,” “Twister,” and “Long Way from Vixenburg.”

Recommendation:  This one is a worthy addition to your Americana collection – Get it.

Artist Name:  Alex Mabey

Album Name:  Enough

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Bravest Daughter; 2.  Enough; 3.  Wild and Free; 4.  Soldier’s Wife; 5.  Run to the Edge; 6.  Jesus Was

Publicist:  None

Review:  We met this artist at DSE, and were immediately overcome with the beauty of her voice and the power of her words.  That amazement continues from the opening notes of “Bravest Daughter,” the first track of her EP Enough, as it becomes quickly clear that Alex Mabey has arrived as the new voice in folk/Americana music.  Her songs are well crafted, her voice soars like a bird, and the musical accompaniment is first rate, especially the cello on the first track and on “Soldier’s Wife.”   Our only complaint is that this six-song EP is simply too short – merely teasing us with her greatness.   The title track has such potential for placement in television and film, and creates a yearning for Mabey’s music that can never be fully quenched, but will keep bringing the listener back for more.  “Wild and Free” and “Run to the Edge” likewise grabbed our attention, and deserve serious radio airplay.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, and Get this one now.  It is an absolute must have for your musical library.