Category: Get it or Forget it

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

Get it or forget it – Ponderosa Grove launches The Debut

cover art by Matthias Petsche

It’s New Music Friday, and we are pleased to bring you a new Get it or Forget it of an amazing new band that features one of our long time friends in the indie music world – Candace Devine.

For those of you who don’t know, I spent quite a few years working in the music business as a publicist and manager.  One of the artists that I used to manage was Devine, who I combined with another long-time friend, Dave Yaden, to form David and Devine.  Twelve years ago this month we launched them with a tour of NYC and the east coast.

Devine went on to get married, move to Prescott, Arizona and start a family.  She has now hooked up with Johan Glidden and Drew Hall to form Ponderosa Grove, and we couldn’t be more impressed with their debut album.

Artist Name:   Ponderosa Grove

Album Name:  The Debut

Label:  Farasi Records

Genre:  Folk/Americana

Track Listing: 1.  Slowing Down in Real Time 2.  Freedom Ride; 3.  Waterline; 4.  It Never Rains; 5.  Til Tomorrow; 6.  Save my Soul; 7.  You Got Me; 8.  One Seat; 9.  Love; 10.  Holding me Back; 11. Into the Blue

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Every so often a new band hits the market that stops you in your tracks and makes you take notice.  The last band that stopped me was Sugarland with the release of their debut album Twice the Speed of Life . . . until today.  This amazing new album has everything that propelled Sugarland to super-stardom, including great songwriting, impeccable musicianship, and a powerhouse female lead vocalist.

Ponderosa Grove features Devine on lead vocals, sharing the mic with Hall on guitar/vocals and Glidden on guitar/violin/vocals.  They are joined by Cosimo Bohrman on bass, Shawnee Snaketail on keys/synthesizer, Kenneth Crouch on organ/Wurlitzer, Bryan Taylor on drums/percussion, Steph Griffin on trumpet, Paul Ruffner on saxophone, and Vince Porter on tuba/trombone.  Devine also wrote or co-wrote 10 of the 11 tracks, which were produced by Dylan Ludwig and mastered by Hans DeKline.

There is not a weak song on the album, and we wouldn’t be surprised to hear quite a few of them released as singles.  Although the vibe of the album is folk/Americana, there are subtle hints of R&B, jazz and blues, which gives the band a great cross-over window of opportunity.   We do love this entire album, but the tunes that grabbed our attention the most were “Slowing Down in Real Life,” “Waterline” (with obvious inspiration from Fleetwood Mac), the powerful “Save my Soul,” the soulful ballads “You Got Me” and “Into the Blue”, the jazzy “Love” and “Holding me Back.”

Recommendation:  Drop whatever you’re doing and go get this one NOW!!  If you’re lucky enough to be in Prescott, Arizona, they’re celebrating tonight with a Record Release show at Downtown Square at 6:45 p.m.

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

Katie Knipp shows her depth of talent with the release of The Well

In recent years, there has been an increase in the visibility of indie music.  Indie artists are being nominated for and winning major awards like the Grammys, as well as being exposed in television, movies and radio.  Today we explore one of those artists, Katie Knipp, and her latest EP masterpiece, The Well.

Knipp wrote these songs during the turbulent times of 2020, and captured the feelings and frustrations of that period.  She accomplished this feat by working with such talented musicians as Zack Proteau on electric bass and rhythm guitar, Neil Campisano on drums and percussion, Chris Martinez on electric guitar and Otis Mourning on saxophone and clarinet.  She also convinced Mick Martin (harmonica), Justin Au (trumpet), Brandon Au (trombone) and Keith Cotton (Hammond organ) to provide guest instrumentation.  Knipp supplied the vocals, piano, Rhodes, Hammond and dobro guitar to the mix.

We previously featured her first single, “Chamomile and Cocaine,” last July.

The Well debuted last week on the Billboard Blues Albums Chart at #4, one of the highest debuts ever by an indie artist.  It’s easy to see why.

Artist Name: Katie Knipp

Album Name:   The Well

Label:  Self-released

Genre:   Blues

Track Listing:   1.  Sad Eyed Lover; 2.  The Gospel of Good Intentions; 3.  Better Me; 4.  Chamomile and Cocaine; 5.  Bullet Train.

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:   What can we say.  Her voice is delightful, and perfectly suited to the blues.  Her songwriting chops are some of the finest currently on display anywhere and the chemistry she has with her band members is to die for.   They may call it the blues, but there’s nothing depressing about the quality of sound and music that Knipp exudes.  The EP kicks off with the toe-tapping sound of “Sad Eyed Lover,” and truly takes off from there.  This one is the perfect pairing with the Chicago blues sound made famous by The Blues Brothers.  She takes it back a step with the moody and jazzy sound of “The Gospel of Good Intentions,” before roaring back with the delta blues sound of “Better Me.”  Our favorite cut is “Chamomile and Cocaine,” but truthfully, you can’t go wrong with any of these musical gems.  “Bullet Train” just puts an exclamation point on this work of art.

Recommendation:   This is a no-brainer.  You simply MUST add this one to your music collection.  We wouldn’t be surprised to see this one up for Grammy consideration.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Live Concerts Reviews

The Imaginaries slay with their streaming CD release concert

Oklahoma-based power couple Shane Henry and Maggie McClure aka The Imaginaries kicked off the release of their long-awaited debut album with a live streaming acoustic performance sponsored by American Songwriter Magazine.  The concert included the back stories for each song on the album, and lasted for more than 90 minutes, all of it pure joy.

One of my favorite moments was when McClure and Henry were explaining their individual career progression and McClure noted that she had begun with performances at Borders Books and Music.  You see, I was the booker for those stores back in the late 90’s/early 00’s, and it finally answered the question of where I had first heard her music.

Since the concert was essentially a listening party for their CD, we are including our Get it or Forget it review format.

Artist Name:   The Imaginaries

Album Name:  The Imaginaries

Label:   Self-released

Genre:  Americana/Folk

Track Listing:   1.  Revival; 2.  Walking on a Wire; 3.  Thinking ‘Bout You 4.  Trust Falling With You; 5.  There Will Come a Day 6.  Geronimo 7.  One Life; 8.  Enough of You; 9.  Blue Sky; 10.  You Remind Me

Publicist:   37 Media (Julie Lichtenstein)

Review:   The CD kicks off with two of their strongest songs, and never stops delivering powerful messages with memorable musical accompaniment.  In addition to their incredible creativeness in writing these masterpieces, The Imaginaries are also adept at conceptualizing the visualization of those songs, as evidenced by the numerous film festival nominations and wins that their videos have garnered.  We will be featuring their latest video for “Blue Sky” in our Monday Mashup column next week.

The album is produced by the duo and was recorded in the same studio in Muscle Shoals where the pair began their musical journey.  The album features bassist David Hood (Aretha Franklin, Etta James, Paul Simon), Little Richard guitarist Kelvin Holly (Jason Isbell, Gregg Allman, Neil Young), bassist Shonna Tucker (John Paul White, The Secret Sisters), and keyboardist NC Thurman (Hank Williams Jr, Gregg Allman, Little Richard), drummer Rob Humphreys (Leonard Cohen, Jason Mraz), keyboardists Chad Copelin (Sufjan Stevens, Christina Perri, Ben Rector) and Dan Walker (Heart).

Recommendation:   Drop whatever you’re doing today and get this album.  It will be the crowning jewel in your musical collection.

Thank you to The Imaginaries for an amazing showcase of your talent.  It was so refreshing to hear a band that sounds as good acoustically as they do when they have their entire band playing live.  They are further proof that indie music is the best music.  Can’t wait to see them live in person in the not too distant future.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews

Get it or forget it – 2020 vol 1

It’s been a while since our last edition of Get it or Forget it, and we wanted to ease back in with a few of our favorite artists who have all been busy during this pandemic.  We hope you like what you read, and will check out these amazing artists.  We hope to make this a regular weekly feature, but that will depend on when our work schedule becomes more solid.  At any rate, here we go.

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Artist Name:  Emily Zuzik

Album Name:  Torch & Trouble

Label:  Head Bitch Music and Maenades Music

Genre:  Americana

Release Date:  August 28, 2020

Track Listing:  1.  Stay Wild, 2.  Get it Right, 3.  Chinese Food and Donuts, 4.  Trouble, 5.  Magic, 6.  Shadows, 7.  All That Love, 8.  Wild Mustangs Across the Great Plains, 9.  Embers, 10.  The Band Played On

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Emily Zuzik has been one of the leading voices in the resurgence of the Los Angeles Americana music scene with her unmistakable voice and incredibly well-written songs.  Her latest, Torch & Trouble, sets the bar high and is truly her best effort to date.  The album is skillfully produced by Ted Russell Kamp, the amazing country bass player who is a huge part of the success of every artist he works with, including Shooter Jennings, Manda Mosher, Tanya Tucker and Zuzik.   Among the amazing supporting musicians on the project are Christopher Allis on drums, Brian Whelan on Hammond organ and guitar, Kamp on bass, and John Schreffler on guitar.

Zuzik wrote or co-wrote nine of the ten songs on the album, hits the ground running with the first track, “Stay Wild,” and never slows down as she delivers memorable song after memorable song.  Although there are no weak songs on the entire album, our favorites include “Stay Wild,” “Get it Right,” the rocking “Trouble,” the Chris Isaak-like “Shadows,” (a Yo La Tengo cover), the romantic waltz “All That Love,” the epic story of “Wild Mustangs Across the Great Plains,” and “Embers,” which features the vocals of Kamp and Zuzik in a stirring duet.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, and get this one like your life depends on it.

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Artist Name:  Tawny Ellis

Album Name:  Love Life

Label:  Music Building Records

Genre:  Americana

Release Date:  July 24, 2020

Track Listing:  1.  Love Life, 2.  Moon Shine, 3.  Pretend Love, 4.  No More, 5.  Deep end of Love, 6.  Spirit of Love, 7.  I Believe, 8.  Powers That Be, 9.  Daddy, 10.  Dirty Work

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Tawny Ellis is proof of the benefit of being in the right place at the right time, and her relentless pursuit of perfection is evident in every song on this true masterpiece, which took three years to complete.  The artists who worked with her on this project sound like a “Who’s Who” of some of the finest musicians in the industry, including Jesse Siebenberg (Lukas Nelson, Lissie), Ted Russell Kamp (Shooter Jennings, Tanya Tucker), Gio Loria (Jack Johnson) and Kaitlin Wolfberg (H.E.R.).  Their contributions give Ellis’ sound an eclectic vibe that makes the music accessible to fans of all genres.  Among the best cuts are “Love Life,” “Pretend Love,” the rocking “No More,” the mournful “Deep End of Love,” the stirring “I Believe,” and the haunting and iconic “Powers That Be.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – your music library NEEDS it and so do you.

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Artist Name:  Ted Russell Kamp

Album Name:  Down in the Den

Label:  PoMo Records

Genre:  Roots/Rock/Americana

Release Date:  July 24, 2020

Track Listing:  1.  Home Sweet Hollywood (ft Shooter Jennings), 2.  Have Some Faith, 3.  Waste a Little Time With Me, 4.  Stick With Me, 5.  Hold On (ft Gordy Quist), 6.  Hobo Nickel, 7.  Rainy Day Valentine, 8.  The Good Part, 9.  Word for Word (ft Sarahh Gayle Meech), 10. My Turn to Cry, 11.  Only Son (ft Shane Alexander), 12.  Every Little Thing you Need, 13. Saint Severin, 14.  Take my Song With You (ft Kirsten Proffit)

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  This article would not be complete without a review of the common denominator between Emily Zuzik and Tawny Ellis, the legendary musician himself, Ted Russell Kamp.  The album was recorded in Kamp’s home studio, affectionately called “The Den,” and features several of the amazing artists that Kamp has worked with, including Shooter Jennings, Gordy Quist, Sarah Gayle Meech, Shane Alexander and Kirsten Proffit.  We have already featured the first two songs on the album in our Monday Mashup series, and they are just the tip of the iceberg of the treasures contained in this 14-song collection.  We really love the swinging feel of “Waste a Little Time With Me,” the classic country sound of “Stick With Me,” the New Orleans Jazz-infused “Hobo Nickel,”  the two-stepping sound of “The Good Part,” the Dwight Yoakum-inspired strains of “My Turn to Cry,” the righteous country ballad “Saint Severin,” and the sweet duet “Take my Song With You.”

Recommendation:  No music library is complete without this one, so go out and get it ASAP.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – new music vol. 5

We’ve got a rare free morning, so we thought we’d share some reviews.  Here are five new releases that we think you’ll like, so grab your coffee and get ready to meet some new artists.

Artist Name:  Abby Posner

Album Name:  Return

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Return Home; 2.  Cooking Wine; 3.  Heavy; 4.  Snow

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Listening to Abby Posner is like finding that rare vintage book in the bargain bin of the thrift store – its value isn’t determined by its surroundings.  Of all the indie artists we have encountered during our 20+ years supporting music, she is one of the most talented and unique, and never fails to deliver.  Adept on every instrument she plays, she weaves her incredible life into every note and word.  She is supported on this project by The Queertet (one of the best string sections we have ever heard), and they add so much to her sound.  Our only regret is that this long-awaiting EP is only four songs, but we know that she will continue to provide us with amazing music.  We shared the video for her first single, “Return Home,” last month and we are here to tell you that the other three songs are just as amazing.  We love the acoustic sound and will keep this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  This is the best EP released in 2019, and absolutely MUST be in your collection.  Go get it now!

Artist Name:  Tombstones in Their Eyes

Album Name:  Maybe Someday

Label:  Somewherecold Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Open Skies; 2.  Maybe Someday; 3.  I Want You; 4.  Today; 5.  Down in the Dirt; 6.  The Demon; 7.  Behind my Mind; 8.  The One; 9.  I Believe; 10.  I Can’t Feel it Anymore; 11.  Up and Down; 12.  Dreams

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  This LA band has drawn comparisons to Pink Floyd, and they are well-earned.  Their sound is obviously influenced by that classic rock band, although they have updated and modernized the sound.  These are songs that stop you in your tracks, mesmerizing your ears with that classic rock sound while the words tantalize and entice your mind.  This is a band that is going places, and they show that with a collection of songs that hit the target dead-on.  Put this one on repeat and chill.

Recommendation:  If you love classic rock and especially Pink Floyd, then this one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  BINX

Album Name:  Bee From Mars

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Phantom; 2.  Neighbors; 3.  Love on Mars; 4.  Milk; 5.  Anthem; 6.  Shock Waves; 7.  How do you Like Your Eggs?; 8.  Crying in California; 9.  Space DJ; 10.  The Hills

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We met BINX at last year’s LA Music Critic Awards showcase, and were immediately enamored with her personality and style, which is becoming just as iconic around Hollywood as Evangeline‘s pink Corvette.  We shared her first single, “Milk,” last month.  Now, with the release of her latest album, she shows that she is not just stunning stylistically, but is also incredibly talented and deserving of heavy rotation on radio and inclusion in the dance tracks of every intelligent DJ.  She is the natural successor to early Lady Gaga, with a style that sets her apart from so many indie artists.  In addition, her songs are better than so much of the current Top 40 songs, and will immediately capture your attention and affection.  You will want to hear them over and over again, and we strongly encourage you to put this one on repeat.  South Africa’s loss is truly America’s gain.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go get this one.

Artist Name:  Jack Broadbent

Album Name:  Moonshine Blue

Label:  Creature Records

Genre:  Folk/Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Moonshine Blue; 2.  If; 3.  The Other Side; 4.  Everytime I Drown; 5.  This Town; 6.  The Lucky Ones; 7.  Tonight; 8.  Wishing Well; 9.  Too Late

Publicist:  E2PR

Review:  We have shared a pair of his singles with you (“Wishing Well” and “Everytime I Drown“), and believe this British import is about to make a huge impact on the American music scene.  He is already getting praise from the jazz/blues festival circuit for his incredible slide guitar work, and we think every accolade is well deserved.  If you love sax, then you will be blown away by “The Other Side.”  But don’t stop there – enjoy every track of this amazing album.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your attention – grab it!

Artist Name:  Katy Hobgood Ray featuring Dave Ray

Album Name:  I Dream of Water

Label:  Out of the Past Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Lollie Bottoms; 2.  Washed Away; 3.  Oh Devil; 4.  I Dream of Water; 5.  House Divided; 6.  Dirty Water; 7.  Little Children’s Blues; 8.  Des Allemands; 9.  That Really Matters; 10.  Kings, Queens, and Jesters

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  From the first notes of “Lollie Bottoms,” you can feel the influence of the Big Easy on the down-home sound of this music, which would make the perfect soundtrack for an episode of NCIS: New Orleans, or any other show or movie about the south.  These songs create a truly relaxing atmosphere – all that’s missing is the beer and crayfish.  This album should be enjoyed from start to finish and then just let it play over and over again while you kick back and relax.

Recommendation:  The perfect background for a relaxing weekend – get it and enjoy it today.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday

Get it or forget it – New Music Friday vol. 4

It’s been a while since we had a Friday morning off, so we are celebrating by sharing these great new albums with you.  They are all dropping today.

Artist Name:  The Skullers

Album Name:  Freight Trains and Party Games

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Modern Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Still Life; 2.  She Denies Herself the Things she Loves; 3.  Convenient; 4.  Out of the Garden; 5.  Brooklyn Girls; 6.  She Denies Herself the Things she Loves (at the record booth)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The Skullers have hit the big time with the release of their latest EP.  It mixes elements of Americana/Rockabilly with modern rock to create a unique sound that is worthy of repeated listens.  We last reviewed them in March 2018, and they have continued to make great strides in their artistic growth.  This time around they have evolved from their blues rock origins to become a band worthy of heavy rotation on Top 40 radio.  We love every song on this EP, especially “She Denies Herself the Things she Loves” and “Out of the Garden.”

Recommendation:  Don’t hesitate to jump on this wagon – go Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Fox Stevenson

Album Name:  Killjoy

Label:  Anti-Fragile Music

Genre:  Funky Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Out my Head; 2.  Killjoy; 3.  Broken Man; 4.  Okay; 5.  Cavalier; 6.  Dreamland; 7.  California; 8.  Go Like; 9.  Use Me; 10.  Hold Steady; 11.  All Night; 12.  Perfect Lie; 13.  Headlights

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  Producer Fox Stevenson’s debut album Killjoy is a work of sonic beauty, with a richness that many seasoned artists don’t have.  It is funky, cool, fresh and worthy of repeated listens.  These songs are upbeat and perfect for keeping you in sync on your daily activities.  We think this album will launch his career out of the UK and into the rest of the world.  He hits the ground running with “Out my Head” and never lets up.  This one is a surefire winner.

Recommendation:  If you love fresh new music, this one should be first on your list – go Get it!

Artist Name:  Wildlife

Album Name:  Take the Light With You

Label:  Culvert Music

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Wasted; 2.  Broken Magic; 3.  Cut-off; 4.  No Control; 5.  All in Black; 6.  Follower (LaLa); 7.  Euphoria; 8.  Whatever, Memory; 9.  Dance Now; 10.  House in the Shadows

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Toronto’s Wildlife is another band on the rise.  We debuted their single “No Control” in our Ten Great Singles of September 2019 article, and the rest of the album is even better. These lads have been influenced by the great acts of the 80s and 90s, like Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, U2 and more.  Even though they have been together for 10 years, they bring a new freshness to the power rock of those acts and set themselves up to be one of the best acts of 2019.

Recommendation:  What are you waiting for?  Go Get it!

Artist Name:  David J

Album Name:  Missive to an Angel From the Halls of Infamy and Allure

Label:   Glass Modern Records

Genre:

Track Listing:  1.  Mosaic; 2.  Blue Eyes in the Green Room; 3.  Baudelaire; 4.  (I Don’t Want to Destroy) Our Beautiful Thing; 5.  Lovelorn; 6.  Clandestine Valentine; 7.  Of Purgatory and Perfume; 8.  Migena and the Frozen Roses; 9.  No Floods can Drown; 10.  Pre-Existing Condition; 11.  Copper Level 7; 12.  (I Walked Away From) The Girl in Yellow; 13.  Best Western Blues; 14.  Missive to an Angel From the Halls of Infamy and Allure; 15.  The Auteur (Redux/The Scarlet’s Cut); 16.  I Have Only Silence Now

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  What do you get when you cross Tom Waits/Bob Dylan with Leonard Cohen/Andrew Lloyd Webber?  You get David J’s latest eerie and invigorating new album.  These songs could easily be made into an amazing musical and should be performed in major concert halls.  This soundtrack is worthy of your repeated listens and could easily become a daily habit.  We truly cannot get enough of these songs, and will be listening over and over again.  We recommend you do the same.

Recommendation:  This one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  Doug Duffey and BADD

Album Name:  Play the Blues

Label:  Out of the Past Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  The Things we Used to Do; 2.  Evil; 3.  Big Easy Street Blues; 4.  Have you Ever?; 5.  Drink it on Down; 6.  My Drivin’ Wheel; 7.  Talk of the Town; 8.  You Got That Somethin’; 9.  A Memory Left to Lose

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  There are so many styles of the blues, from Delta to Chicago to Memphis, and no one can play them all better than Doug Duffey and BADD.  They combine elements from all these blues styles into their own unique blend that highlights the blues and transforms it into a celebration of life, not just a wailing sound of agony.  They even add some jazzy grooves into their song “Evil,” further separating themselves from the rest of the blues genre.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues or just plain great music, then add this one to your collection today.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday

Get it or forget it – New Music vol. 3

With our work schedule so crazy, we have found it very difficult to publish an article every week day, so we are instituting new guidelines for categories, which can be published whenever we have a chance.  Today we are publishing under the New Music, but it will not be restricted to just albums published this past Friday.  Enjoy these great new albums, all of which have been released this month.

Artist Name:  Gerry Beckley

Album Name:  Five Mile Road

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Life Lessons; 2.  Something to Remember; 3.  Home Again; 4.  Five Mile Road; 5.  Hang Your Head High; 6.  So Long Marni 7.  Vegabond; 8.  Heart of the Valley; 9.  Stop Feeling Sorry; 10.  Calling; 11.  Sudden Soldier; 12.  Two People at Once

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  Once again Blue Élan Records has resurrected a piece of our childhood and reinfused it with new life.  Today’s excellent example returns the sound of America with the release of Five Mile Road from Gerry Beckley.  From the first note of “Life Lessons,” all the memories of listening for hours to such songs as “Sister Golden Hair,” “Ventura Highway,” and more came rushing back.  Beckley sparkles and his songwriting is better than ever.  Every song on this comeback masterpiece is simply amazing and deserves heavy rotation on radio.  His new sound is also perfect for placement opportunities in film and television.  There is not a weak track on this collection of 12 potential hits, and we strongly suggest you just grab a glass of wine and put this one one repeat.

Recommendation:  You had better get this one NOW!

Artist Name:  Jay Katana

Album Name:  Bleeding Boyfriend Mixtape

Label:  Fretmonkey Records

Genre:  Rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  . . . Your Eyes; 2.  I’m Done; 3.  KissClosed; 4.  Letter from Child; 5.  Mixtape; 6.  Shadows From my Eyes

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  Once again, Jay Katana has proven that he is one of the premier guitar players in rock music today.  His music brings peace and harmony to your chaotic day, with riffs that would make Jimi Hendrix proud.  Pop this one in and get your chill on.  Best tracks are “KissClosed,” “Letter From Child,” “Mixtape,” and “Shadows From my Exes” (for when you really want to rock out).

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your time.

Artist Name:  Jake Clemons

Album Name:  Eyes on the Horizon

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Swan Song 2.  Consumption Town (ft Tom Morello); 3.  Mom Deserves Better; 4.  ¡Ayuda! (When the Sun Goes Down); 5.  Nothing Left; 6.  Regression (Wasted in London); 7.  Democracy; 8.  We, The People; 9.  Eyes on the Horizon; 10.  Goodnight

Publicist:  DRPR

Review:  Probably best known for his time as a saxophonist with Bruce Springsteen‘s E Street Band, Jack Clemons is a multi-instrumentalist who adds his vocal abilities to this amazing collection of powerful songs like lead track “Swan Song” and his amazing cover of Leonard Cohen‘s “Democracy,” which we featured in our Monday Mashup article back in April.  His second single, “Consumption Town,” contains a powerful message that just might make Clemons the modern day equivalent of Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan, but with a much harder edge to his music.

Recommendation:  This one belongs in your library – go Get it today!

Artist Name:  Frankiie

Album Name:  Forget Your Head

Label:  Paper Bag Records

Genre:  Indie/Dream Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Funny Feeling; 2.  Dream Reader; 3.  Compare; 4.  Easy Breezy (Je Sais) 5.  Corner 6.  Glory Me; 7.  Nowhere Days 8.  Don’t be Low; 9.  Along Again; 10.  Sun Queen; 11.  Stone Song

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Frankiie is all-female band from Vancouver that delivers the best in dream rock, with heavenly voices that soar, harmonies that give you goose bumps, and a sound reminiscent of such bands as Heart and Fleetwood Mac.  They do not disappoint on their debut release, and we think they have the chops to ensure a lengthy career.  This one is definitely going on repeat.

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – just go Get it!

Artist Name:  Lisa Rich

Album Name:  Highwire

Label:  Tritone Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  High Wire The Aerialist (for Phillip Petit); 2.  Contessa; 3.  Celeste Prelude to a Kiss; 4.  Bud Powell; 5.  Stardancer; 6.  Lonely Woman; 7.  Songbird; 8.  The Jinn; 9.  We’ll be Together Again; 10.  The Silence of a Candle

Publicist:  Doreen D’Agostino Media

Review:  This is the perfect album for jazz standards lovers, as the rich voice of Lisa Rich (no pun intended) breathes new life into these songs by such artists as Chick Corea, Ralph Towner, Duke Ellington, Ornette Colemand and Loonis McGlohon, as well as the standard “We’ll be Together Again.”  These songs are perfect for relaxing with a choice glass of wine, and will ease the day’s troubles as the sweet sounds soothe your soul.

Recommendation:  This one is a must for all true jazz lovers.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – New Music Friday vol. 2

We made it through another week, and have some great rewards for you, including the latest by a recent Grammy-nominated artist who is covering the library of a Grammy legend.  Let’s get this weekend started.

Artist Name:  Sarah Lightman

Album Name:  Interlude

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Interlude; 2.  Let Your Light In; 3.  Graduating 4.  Alright; 5.  Until I see you Again; 6.  Shell; 7.  I Can’t Be; 8.  So Good; 9.  Home; 10.  We are the Same; 11.  Letter to my Father

Publicist:  Elisa Tapia

Review:  Sarah Lightman came to Los Angeles to be an actress but gave it up to become a singer-songwriter.  If her debut album, Interlude, is any indicate, she made the right choice.  Her songs offer hope and are sung with such a sweet voice that the listener can’t help but be drawn up.  Her music deserves heavy rotation on radio stations nationwide, and her songs should be highly considered for placement in television and film.  We especially love “Graduating,” “Until I See You Again” (with its jazzy undertones and amazing co-vocals from WOLVES), “I Can’t Be,” and “So Good.”  She may have made her start performing on the streets of City Walk, but she’s ready for a larger audience.  Don’t miss this train as it leaves the station for super stardom.

Recommendation:  Definitely RUN out and get this one.

Artist Name:  Jimbo Pap

Album Name:  It can Always get Worse

Label:  Fiesta Red Records

Genre:  California Country/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Submission (Nice Pants); 2.  On my way to the show 3.  Long Kiss Goodbye; 4.  Nothing’s Quite the Same; 5.  Queen of my Lonely Little World; 6.  String of Pearls; 7.  Yard Sale; 8.  Long Time Movin’; 9.  Another Ticket on the Windshield; 10.  It can Always get Worse; 11.  Someone’s Gonna Love me Again

Publicist:  Devious Planet

Review: A recent edition to the Los Angeles Americana scene, Jimbo Pap provides the perfect tongue-in-cheek approach to incorporating their unique blend of country with a folk-style message about current events.  Their voices create incredible harmonies that deliver their message without offending the listener.  You will quickly find yourself tapping along to the beat while you process the words, and will leave with a better understanding of what you can do to improve the world around you.  Don’t forget to grab a beer and tool around the dance floor as well.

Recommendation: A brilliant release that deserves a place in your library – go get it!

Artist Name:  Sarah Rogo

Album Name:  Smoke and Water

Label:  Funzalo Records

Genre:  Blues/Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Pieces; 2.  Here Goes Nothing; 3.  Smoke and Water; 4.  Will you Still Love me Tomorrow 5.  Run; 6.  Jolene; 7.  Love and be Loved; 8.  Take me to the Water 9.  Which Wolf; 10.  Voodoo Child

Publicist:  Independent Music Media

Review: Hard to believe it’s been nearly two years since we reviewed an album from Sarah Rogo (Live at Lestats West), which was her first album published by Funzalo Records.  She was signed after meeting them at the Durango Songwriters Expo, one of several up and coming superstars that emerged from the annual affair in Denver, Colorado.  From the first notes of “Pieces,” you can quickly hear her maturity and growth as an artist.  She is the voice of a new generation of blues and roots singers, and we believe she is heading for tremendous success.  Her songs cut to the heart and deliver a touching message, accompanying by Rogo’s mad resonator guitar skills.  This one deserves to be on repeat, especially her beautiful interpretations of the classics “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” and “Jolene.”

Recommendation:  One of the best we’ve heard from any Durango alum – run out and don’t stop until you get this one.

Artist Name:  Janiva Magness

Album Name:  Change in the Weather:  Janiva Magness Sings John Fogerty

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Blues Covers

Track Listing:  1.  Change in the Weather; 2.  Lodi (ft Sam Morrow); 3.  Someday Never Comes; 4.  Wrote a Song for Everyone; 5.  Don’t you Wish it Were True (ft Taj Mahal); 6.  Have you Ever Seen the Rain 7.  Bad Moon Rising; 8.  Blueboy; 9.  Fortunate Son; 10.  Deja Vu (All Over Again); 11.  A Hundred and Ten in the Shade; 12.  Lookin’ out my Backdoor

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  As someone who grew up on the music of John Fogerty and Credence Clearwater Revival, it was quite an honor to be asked to review these amazing covers of those songs we grew to love.  Janiva Magness takes her stellar blues skills to turn these songs into instant blues classics, and we are sure that Fogerty would be totally ok with that.  Our favorites include “Lodi,” “Have you Ever Seen the Rain,” “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son,” and “Lookin’ out my Backdoor.”

Recommendation:  If you love Fogerty and the blues, you will simply adore these interpretations.  Run out and get it today!

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Unknown Wednesdays

Get it or forget it – Unknown Wednesdays vol. 2

We started this article more than a week ago, and needed to get it out to you today, even though it’s Friday.  Enjoy these unknowns, who we hope will spark your interest in finding new music.

Artist Name:  Julie Haven

Album Name:  Fool’s Gold

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  See me Cry; 2.  Love and War; 3.  Dust; 4.  Fated

Publicist:  AGD Entertainment

Review:  Julie Haven is an up and coming artist who sings from her heart about love and loss.  Her vocals soar on this short four song EP which introduces listeners to her powerful delivery and excellent songwriting abilities.  Her songs are textbook perfect for placement in television and film, especially for chick flicks and rom-coms.  In addition, these songs deserve heavy rotation on radio, especially college radio.  Hop on this train now – this artist is definitely going place.

Recommendation:  Don’t hesitate – get this one today.

Artist Name:  Creature and the Woods

Album Name:  J Tree

Label:  Blind Owl

Genre:  Folk Psych Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Widows Waltz; 2.  Head Above Water; 3.  Oh Well; 4.  Two Golden Coins

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  This is a band of brothers who have chosen San Diego as their home and recorded this EP in Joshua Tree.  The sound is a throwback to the music of the 60’s (Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors) but with a fresh approach that captures the spirit without duplication of the message, although many of those message are still relevant.  The harmonies are exquisite and the guitar riffs would surely pass the “Hendrix test.”  The music deserves radio airplay and should definitely be considered for placement opportunities.  We see great things ahead for this band.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your attention, we highly recommend you get this one.

Artist Name:  Bambi Lee Savage

Album Name:  Berlin-Nashville Express

Label:  Hoof & Antler Records

Genre:  Country/Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Honey; 2.  This Blue Heart; 3.  Get out my Pillow (I’m Comin’ Home); 4.  Demon Alcohol; 5.  Baby Come Back; 6.  I Can’t Count on my Man; 7.  I’ll Have to Leave Town (to get Over You); 8.  Drinker of Gin; 9.  Walk in Love; 10.  Darlin’ (Savannah Remix)

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Americana has a new country twang with folk undertones in Bambi Lee Savage.  Her music brings back that classic country feel with a swinging soundtrack.  Her music has that same feel as Emmylou Harris, and the resulting songs are a welcome addition to the otherwise pop country music of her peers.  She also takes a number of cliches and turns them into thoughtful and well-written songs that bring those old sayings to life.  This one is perfect for your Saturday night dancing as you boot scoot around that floor.

Recommendation:  If you love classic country, this one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  Jon Gindick

Album Name:  Love at the All Night Cafe

Label:  Old Chimney

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  I was Born to Wail; 2.  Feeling her Gone; 3.  Baby’s got the Blues; 4.  The All Night Cafe; 5.  Load me up Baby; 6.  Mississippi Moods; 7.  Happy Wife, Happy Life, Happy Home; 8.  The song I Couldn’t Write; 9.  I Love the Feminine Girl; 10.  Hand Holding Man; 11.  Can’t get That Girl off my Mind; 12.  In the Land of You

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Jon Gindick has to be the best harmonica player in music today.  Not only that, his stories should be part of our musical heritage as they recount the history of American music, keeping the legacy alive.  His form of the blues is unique and most worthy of a place in your musical library.  It is more upbeat and jazzy than most blues songs, but after just one listen it will be obvious that he is inspired and influenced by the early blues giants.   As long as Gindick is around, musical history will never be forgotten.

Recommendation:  If you love American music and respect the history of its development, then this one is a must-have.

 

Artist Name:  Blue Canoe

Album Name:  Overbored

Label:  4000 Holes

Genre:  Classic Rock

Track Listing:  1.  It’s on You; 2.  Sorry Won’t Help; 3.  Kissed me Once; 4.  Cover Me; 5.  Scotch 6.  Her Love to a Bottle 7.  Don’t get Around Much Anymore 8.  Standing in the Cold; 9.  4000 Holes; 10.  My Mistake

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Blue Canoe, composed of Mike May, Greg Kane and Bob Gallagher, bring back classic rock with abandon.  This is the music we grew up on, and they truly capture that feel with their righteous interpretation of the genre.  This is music that was made for parties, and could easily go on repeat for the duration of your good times.  These melodies will stick in your head and you’ll be thinking about them long after the song is over.

Recommendation:  We are adding these guys to our rock essentials library, and highly recommend you do the same.

 

 

 

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Tuesday Treats

Get it or forget it – Tuesday treats vol. 2

Well, the work schedule has finally firmed up and now we can try to get back into a regular publication schedule.  We have some treats for  you today from artists who have already appeared at least once in Indie Voice Blog.  Here is our second edition.

Artist Name:  Katrina Parker

Album Name:  Stars

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  I Will Never Leave; 2.  Ring of Fire; 3.  Carry me Away; 4.  Strange World; 5.  Until  you Come Again; 6.  Stars; 7.  Follow Me; 8.  Without You; 9.  Don’t Give it Up

Publicist:  Working Brilliantly

Review:  Our relationship with Katrina Parker goes back nearly 15 years, long before she became a household name with her appearance on NBC‘s The Voice.  Her new album is by far her best work to date, and includes an amazing cover of Johnny Cash‘s classic hit “Ring of Fire” that we guarantee is totally different from anybody’s else’s version.  The other eight songs are all originals and every one deserves massive radio airplay.  Parker is just coming into her own, and we can’t wait to see where her new album takes her.

Recommendation:  Get this one like your life depends on it, and put it on perpetual repeat.

Artist Name:  Lovers and Poets

Album Name:  Sugar High

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Synth Pop/Electronica

Track Listing:  1.  Nevergonnastop; 2.  Barbarella; 3.  Here and Now; 4.  Keep Breaking my Heart; 5.  Sugar High

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Although this one won’t be released until September 20, we just couldn’t wait to share its awesomeness with you.  Lovers & Poets have won numerous LA Music Critic Awards, and their latest is better than anything they have done before.  Shannon & Ben have truly found their stride and deliver five amazing tracks that will make you feel like you just stepped into the 80’s.  These songs are just feel good masterpieces, and we guarantee you’ll want to put them on repeat, especially “Here and Now.”

Recommendation:  If you need a quick pick-me-up, just put this one on repeat – Run out and get it when it is released.

Artist Name:  Greg Laswell

Album Name:  Covers II

Label:  Leg Graswell

Genre:  Cover songs

Track Listing:  1.  Something in my Heart (ft Molly Jenson); 2.  Never let me Down Again (ft Molly Jenson); 3.  A Place Called Home; 4.  Crank; 5.  Lucky Man (ft Molly Jenson); 6.  Without You I’m Nothing; 7.  Love my Way; 8.  Don’t Give Up (ft Molly Jenson

Publicist:  Perpetual Media Relations

Review:  Ten years after the release of Covers, Greg Laswell returns with another set of amazing rock covers of songs from The Verve, PJ Harvey, Depeche Mode, Peter Gabriel, Placebo, The Psychedelic Furs, Catherine Wheel and Röyksopp.  Laswell is assisted on the project by the amazing Molly Jenson, who contributes sweet vocals and harmonies on four of the eight songs.  These songs will haunt you and stay in your mind long after the song has ended.

Recommendation:  Be the first in line on Friday the 13th to get this one when it is released.

Artist Name:  Dudley Taft

Album Name:  Simple Life

Label:  American Blues Artist Group

Genre:  Blues/Americana/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Give me a Song; 2.  Simple Life; 3.  I Can’t Live Without You; 4.  In Your Way 5.  Don’t let Them get Away; 6.  Death by Bliss; 7.  Bombs Away; 8.  If Heartaches Were Nickels; 9.  Never Fade; 10.  Pouring Down; 11.  Shine; 12.  Back to You

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  We featured Dudley Taft’s music video for “Give me a Song” in our Monday Mashup column last month, and immediately fell in love with his raucous guitar and gritty vocals.  The remainder of the album is just as good if not better than that song.  If you love a mix of blues, Americana and good old fashioned rock and roll, then you are going to have a blast listening to all 12 tracks on this album.

Recommendation:  Don’t miss out on this one – it is definitely worthy of being a part of your musical library.

Artist Name:  Walt Weiskopf European Quartet

Album Name:  Worldwide

Label:  Orenda Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Entebbe; 2.  Back in Japan; 3.  Soultrane; 4.  Russian Roulette; 5.  March by Moonlight; 6.  Back in Brazil; 7.  Oceans; 8.  The Pawnbroker; 9.  Scottish Folk Song; 10.  Coat of Arms

Publicist:  SW Marketing

Review:  We met Walt Weiskopf last year when he was performing with Steely Dan, and immediately fell in love with his amazing musicianship.  His European Quartet released an album shortly thereafter and we reviewed it then and are super excited to review their latest album.  Weiskopf is joined in the quartet by Carl Winther, Andreas Lang, and Anders Mogensen.  The album picks up where the last one left off, and is thrilling from the first to the last note.  Put this one on, pour a glass of wine, and chill.  You will truly feel your cares melting away.

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, then this is a must-have addition to your collection.  It sets the standard for modern jazz.