Tag: album reviews

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

Get it or forget it – The Fisherman and the Sea, Mattson 2, Damon Fowler, Valerio Lysander, Steven Blane

Happy hump day!  We are so excited because in less than 48 hours, we will be on a plane heading to God’s country – North Carolina – for a family reunion.  It’s been far too long since I’ve been home, and the chance to introduce my wife to my extended family and see where I grew up.  In the meantime, we still have a lot of music to share, so here are five artists to get you through the mid-point of the week.

Artist Name:  The Fisherman & The Sea

Album Name:  I Can’t Alone

Label:  Neck of the Woods Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Skinny Dip; 2.  Ugly; 3.  Naive (ft Emppu Suhonen); 4.  Reptile (ft Sanna K); 5.  A Man With no Dance

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This is the third EP we have reviewed from The Fisherman & The Sea since November 2017, and they continue to impress.  While we enjoy these frequent short EPs, we wish they would give us a full length album as well.  They have created some of the best indie rock music from the international community, and are a shining beacon to the rest of their community that America is listening, and is ready for them to make a solid attack on our American radio scene.  This is by far the best of the three EPs so far, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.  Our favorite tracks include “Ugly,” “Naive,” and “A Man With no Dance.”

Recommendation:  If you only get one of their EPs, then this is the one to Get (although we think you should get them all)!

Artist Name:  Mattson 2

Album Name:  A Love Supreme

Label:  Spiritual Pajamas

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Acknowledgement; 2.  Resolution; 3.  Interlude; 4.  Pursuance; 5.  Psalm

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Identical twins Jared and Jonathan Mattson bring us a remarkable re-imagining of John Coltrane‘s classic album A Love Supreme.  That is tantamount to spitting in the face of God for some jazz lovers, but trust us when we say that the Mattson twins deliver a stunning performance of this revered masterpiece.  As someone who spent a lot of time in the jazz world, and heard many of the best perform live, Mattson 2 is definitely worthy of the right to record this jazz master, and up to the task of delivering some of the finest jazz we have heard in many years.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer.  If you love jazz, and Coltrane in particular, you owe it to yourself to Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Damon Fowler

Album Name:  The Whiskey Bayou Session

Label:  Whiskey Bayou Records

Genre:  Blues/Roots/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  It Came out of Nowhere; 2.  Fairweather Friend; 3.  Hold me Tight; 4.  Up the Line; 5.  Ain’t Gonna Rock With you no More; 6.  Closer Walk With Thee; 7.  Pour Me; 8.  Holiday; 9.  Running out of Time; 10.  Candy; 11.  Florida Baby

Publicist:  Rick Lusher

Review:  Damon Fowler recorded his first album at the age of 19, and is releasing his first album on Tab Benoit’s new label, Whiskey Bayou Records.  This is his first studio album in four years, and it was definitely worth the wait.  He has definitely hit the road runnning with these songs, and only strengthens his legacy as a blues master.  The album is currently sitting at #1 on the Roots Music Report, where it has been for the past three weeks, so trust us when we tell you it IS just that good!  We especially love his cover of the Johnny Nash classic “Hold me Tight,” as well as the gospel song, “Closer Walk with Thee.”  Add to that the amazing original compositions, and  you have the makings of one of the best blues albums of 2018.

Recommendation:  This is the type of album that will make blues fans out of any one.  Get it now!

Artist Name:  Valerio Lysander

Album Name:  We are like Coloured Moths Towards the Sunlight

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Baroque Pop

Track Listing:  1.  The Moon; 2.  Feathers; 3.  If you Were me you Would Be; 4.  A Little Foot; 5.  The Prince; 6.  Comme Une Rivière; 7.  Cotton; 8.  Ryan; 9.  I’m Screwed; 10.  Little People; 11.  Fools; 12.  Hymn; 13.  Le Stelle de lu Cielo

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We are sure this is the most unique album we have heard from the UK, and we love it.  It is uplifting, with the feeling of having an entire orchestra with an amazing vocalist who also wrote these incredible songs.  This is the album to lift your spirits whenever you are feeling down, as it is impossible not to feel better when listening to these amazing songs.  It is also the only singer-songwriter album you need if you love show tunes, as these songs have the same feeling and would make a great foundation for a new musical.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  Steven Blane

Album Name:  So New York

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz Singer-songwriter

Track Listing:  1.  Bum’s Rush; 2.  Gaslight; 3.  Too Beautiful for Words; 4.  Central Park; 5.  Smoke and Mirrors; 6.  So New York; 7.  Daylight Savings Time Moon; 8.  On Bleeker Street; 9.  New York is my Girlfriend; 10.  Sidewalks of New York

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  As a huge fan of Neil Diamond‘s The Jazz Singer, I always marveled at his ability to go from a cantor to a pop singer.  Well, as often happens, life imitates art.  Steven Blane is a rabbi and cantor, as well as a singer-songwriter.  Although he normally writes in the Americana/roots/folk/country style, this homage to his beloved New York City is more Frank Sinatra than Chris Stapleton.  It is a lovely tribute to the Big Apple, and would have impressed ole blues eyes himself.  We absolutely adore the easy listening sound, and think that Blane is a perfect fit in this genre.

Recommendation:  Regardless of your musical tastes, this one is a classic, and belongs in your music library.  Get it.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Foemen, Raquel Bell, Paulaa, Michika Fukumori, The Skiffle Players

As we head into the final week of August, we still have lots of great artists to share with you.  Here are another five for your consideration.

Artist Name:  Foemen

Album Name:  Magntisz 

Label:  Marmallow Pavement Records

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  All Night; 2.  Freedom Rules; 3.  Magnetic Form; 4.  Oh Crooked Crown; 5.  Surrender

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  While not the biggest fan of electronic music, we really like this EP from Australia’s Foemen.  The sound is hot and is good to listen to as well as dance.  We love the songs, which are well written and radio ready as well as the perfect addition to a house mix.  The effects on the vocals are also not the norm, and we like the overall production of the EP.  Our favorite tracks are “Freedom Rules, “Magnetic Form, and “Oh Crooked Crown.”

Recommendation:  If you are a huge electronic music fan, then you must have this one.  For the rest of us, it is still worthy of your attention.

Artist Name:  Raquel Bell

Album Name:  Swandala

Label:  STORBM

Genre:  Experimental Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Stones; 2.  Vibration Carnation; 3.  A Solo to Mars; 4.  Who Gets to Name the Name; 5.  Wizard Liar; 6.  Growing in  Your Mouth; 7.  Swan

Publicist:  Howling Wuelf Media

Review:  The only music that we normally like less than electronic is experimental.  Raquel Bell is changing our perception with her latest collection of experimental songs.  Although we don’t like the first track, “Stones,” at all, there is more structure to the second track, “Vibration Carnation.”  The music on this track is brilliantly constructed and Bell’s voice is ethereal and provocative.  She really hits her stride on “A Solo to Mars,” and the EP gets better with each new song thereafter.

Recommendation:  Forget the first song, but the rest of the EP is worthy of your attention.

Artist Name:  Paulaa

Album Name:  Fall In

Label:  Self-released

Genre:   Trip-Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Fall In; 2.  Commit; 3.  All These Stories; 4.  Done; 5.  Call me When you Wanna Try; 6.  Know You

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  Paulaa has a beautiful voice that lifts her songs to the stratosphere.  The title track is a masterpiece and deserves heavy airplay on the radio.  She is from London and her music is just the remedy that our current American radio needs.  Not only does she deliver on the title track, but she delivers on every other track as well.  She is definitely becoming one of our favorite UK performers, and we are putting her EP on repeat, especially “Call me When you Wanna Try.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Michika Fukumori

Album Name:  Piano Images

Label:  Summit Records

Genre:  Instrumental  Jazz

Track Listing:  1,  Colors of Blues; 2.  Into the New World;  The Seasons; 3.  The Answer is . . . (Winter); 4.  The Story I Want to Tell You (Spring); 5.  The Days we were Smiling (Summer); 6.  Tomorrow is Full of Promises (Fall); 7.  Where or When; 8.  Palco (a Little Dancer); 9.  Chovendo na Roseira; 10.  My Muse; 11.  Oceans in the Sky (ft Steve Kuhn); 12.  Luiza; 13.  Ev’ry Time we say Goodbye

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:    As most of our readers know, we are huge jazz lovers, and we seldom get piano jazz, although one of our favorite musicians, Dave Yaden, is a maestro on piano and can play just about every genre.  Thank goodness for Michika Fukumori, a native of Japan who now calls New York City her home.  She came to America to study jazz and we think she nailed it.  We love how she mixes blues, ragtime and her own soulfulness into her jazz.  Whether she is playig a jazz standard or her own composition, Fukumori delivers beautiful music.

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, you owe it to yourself to add this one to your collection.

Artist Name:  The Skiffle Players

Album Name:  Piffle Sayers

Label:  Spiritual Pajamas

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Glow in the Dark Scratch and Sniff; 2.  Jonny Todd; 3.  Stagolee; 4.  Dearest; 5.  A Blessing in Disguise; 6.  Slippin’ and Sliding’; 7.  John O’Dreams

Publicist:  Spiritual Pajamas

Review:  They consider themselves folk musicians, but the first track has all the makings of classic psychedelic rock.   True to their word, the rest of the songs are more traditional folk.  The band is composed of a group of friends that originally got together for a single concert, but liked what they had so much they decided to keep doing it.   The result is a concise and cohesive sound and the skillful telling of some great folk traditions.  In addition, the acoustic guitar work is exquisite, especially on “Dearest.”  We can hardly wait to hear their next full length album.

Recommendation:  By all means, Get this one.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Access:Icarus, Relative Ways, Zak Trojano, Klammer, CJ Hooper

It’s finally Friday, and we want to get you ready for the weekend with new releases from these five artists.  Here we go.

Artist Name:  Access:Icarus

Album Name:  Eye of the Storm (Remix EP)

Label:  Dr. Music Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Eye of the Storm; 2.  Eye of the Storm (Gravity Shock Club Mix); 3.  Eye of the Storm (Gravity Shock version); 4.  Eye of the Storm (Gravity Shock Radio Edit)

Publicist:  Dr. Music Promotion

Review:  We have never reviewed an EP composed entirely of multiple versions of the same song until now.  Germany’s own indie rock stars Access:Icarus have the perfect song in “Eye of the Storm” to accomplish this feat, and all four versions (as well as the Official Lyric Video) are incredible, and each is different enough to warrant this special treatment.  We think you are going to love this one, and want to hear it over and over again.

Recommendation:  What are you waiting for?  Get this one and boogie!

Artist Name:  Relative Ways

Album Name:  Alaska

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Once Upon a Time . . .; 2.  Enter, the Woods; 3.  The Fox and the Grapes; 4.  Last First Time; 5.  Pride; 6.  Birds of Prey; 7.  Qualia; 8.  This World; 9.  Parenthisis; 10.  . . . but in the End; 11.  Frames; 12.  Alaska

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  This album is a natural segue from Access:Icarus, although the rock has a harder edge than their EP.  Still, it is good to know that rock and roll is alive and well, and living down under.  This is music that belongs on rock radio, and we would also love to see the live performances of these tracks.  This band NEEDS to get on a tour of America ASAP.  Led by multi-instrumentalist Mat Finnemore, this band is truly ready for the spotlight, and the tracks on Alaska are some of the best rock tracks we have reviewed this year.  Just put this one on repeat and ROCK OUT!

Recommendation:  You simply MUST Get this one – it will truly rock your world!

Artist Name:  Zak Trojano

Album Name:  Wolf Trees

Label:  Whistle Pig Records

Genre:  Americana/Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Kid’s Got Heart; 2.  Nowhere Shuffle; 3.  My Room; 4.  Everyone Knows You; 5.  99 Ways; 6.  Wolf Trees; 7.  Young Surrender; 8.  Paper Wings; 9.  Lights are Low

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Fingerstyle guitarist and singer-songwriter Zak Trojano has an old soul, as reflected in this amazing collection of Americana, folk rock tunes.  He reminds us of the late great Jim Croce in his storytelling and song structure, and early Keith Urban in his style.  Every song is truly unique, making this an easy album to simply put on repeat and then bask in the glory and warmth of Trojano’s voice and his incredible songwriting.  You can’t go wrong with any of these songs, so just grab a glass of wine and let the music wash over you, clearing away the day.

Recommendation:  If you are in the mood for some relaxing and reflective songwriting, then we highly recommend you give this one a listen.  It would sound great in your musical library.

Artist Name:  Klammer

Album Name:  You Have Been Processed

Label:  Under Dogz Records

Genre:  Post-Punk

Track Listing:  1.  Coast to Coast; 2.  Modern God; 3.  No Memory; 4.  Spiral Girl; 5.  Mechanical Boy; 6.  Baddest Blocks; 7.  Tonight; 8.  Common Sense; 9.  ‘Twas but a Magpie; 10.  Human Clay; 11.  Production; 12.  A Long Cold Summer

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  They may consider themselves post-punk, but we think Klammer is just plain good rock music in the style of The Cure and Depeche Mode.  Their music is definitely universal, and should do as well in America as it has done in the UK.  This is another album suitable for being put on repeat and then just rocking out to the beat.  We love every song, but especially dig “Modern God,” “Spiral Girl,” “Baddest Blocks,” “Tonight,” “Common Sense,” and “Human Clay.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  CJ Hooper

Album Name:  Urban Road

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Country/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  When we Rise; 2.  Burning me Up; 3.  Highway 14; 4.  Time

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  We featured the lead single, “When we Rise,” in our Monday Mashup column last month, and it leads off this incredible but short four-song EP.  There is a definite country pop vibe on that first track, similar to the current style of Keith Urban with a little Jason Mraz and The Eagles thrown in for good measure, but the song could just as easily cross-over to the pop side, making it a great candidate for heavy radio airplay in multiple formats.  In fact, all four songs are radio worthy, and the songs would also be great candidates for commercial use or placement in films and television.  This songs are sure to become some of your favorites in no time at all.

Recommendation:  We can’t get enough of this one.  Definitely Get it!

 

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

Get it or forget it – Shari Puorto Band, Fir Cone Children, MillaMusic, Christine Hitt, Bugge Wesseltoft and Prins Thomas

Well, Thursday has arrived and we’re almost to the weekend.  Should be a great one, and we will be covering the Shakey Graves concert on Saturday.  In the meantime, here are five more indie artists to check out.

Artist Name:  Shari Puorto Band

Album Name:  Live at Bogie’s

Label:  Little Lightning Production

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  It’s a Damn Shame; 2.  Home of the Blues; 3.  Outta my Mind; 4.  Guilty; 5.  Six Months Sober; 6.  Sugar Daddy; 7.  Evidence; 8.  All I Want is You; 9.  My Obsession; 10.  All About You; 11.  Tired; 12.  Can’t Find my way Home

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  Shari Puorto and her band have been tearing up the Southern California blues scene for years, and this live recording from Westlake Village’s Bogie’s demonstrates just why she is so popular.  Her songwriting is excellent, and has won her an award in the Song of the Year competition while that sexy voice has won the award for Best Female Vocalist in the Southbay Music Awards.  Truthfully, it’s a “Damn Shame” that she is not more widely known, as she is one of the best blues singers in the genre today.  If you live anywhere in Southern California, we strongly encourage you to go catch her show live!

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

Artist Name:  Fir Cone Children

Album Name:  The Straight and the Curly

Label:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Genre:  Punk/Shoegaze

Track Listing:  1.  3D (ft Krissy Vanderwoude); 2.  On my Plate (ft Krissy Vanderwoude); 3.  Top of the Shelf; 4.  Down Below; 5.  Beastie Girls; 6.  Chasing Shadows; 7.  The Straight & the Curly (Part 1:  The World at Stake) (ft Krissy Vanderwoude); 8.  The Straight & the Curly (Part 2:  To the Rescue); 9.  Festival (ft Krissy Vanderwoude); 10.  Blend In; 11.  Awesomenitis!; 12.  We’re Going Out (ft Krissy Vanderwoude)

Publicist:  Blackjack Illuminist Records & Promotion

Review:  Shoegaze is our favorite kind of punk because it retains all the energy and drive of traditional punk without all the angst.  Germany’s Fir Cone Children is one of the best we have heard this year, and we love their latest album, especially the guest vocals of Krissy Vanderwoude.  If their live show has even half of the energy on this album then they must be amazing to watch.  Like traditional punk, these songs are limited to about two minutes each, and that’s the perfect amount of time to grasp the meaning of song, work up a sweat and move on to the next song.  We think this band has a legitimate chance of making it on the American music scene.

Recommendation:  If upbeat punk is your thing, or you just like high energy music, then give this one a spin.

Artist Name: MillaMusic

Album Name:  Vol 1

Label:  MillaSound

Genre:  Pop/Soul/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  On the Line; 2.  Wrong or Right; 3.  Hey Now; 4.  Gotta Know Your Name; 5.  Why Won’t You; 6.  Surrender

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We last heard from Stephen Miller in 2016 when we reviewed his last album, MillaMix.  Now he’s back with MillaMusic Vol 1, featuring Mike Robledo.  The first track, “On the Line,” was a Top Finalist in the UK Songwriting Competition back in 2015, and we simply love this song, which has “hit” written all over it.  In fact, all six of these songs are simply amazing, and demonstrate the incredible talents of Mike Robledo.  We are most appreciative to Stephen Miller for bringing this project to fruition, and we love his collaboration on “Hey Now.”

Recommendation:  If you need a lift, this is the perfect album for you.  Get it and enjoy.

Artist Name:  Christine Hitt

Album Name:  Magical Kite

Label:  MAXJAZZ

Genre:  Jazz/Standards

Track Listing:  1.  Wade in the Water; 2.  Magical Kite; 3.  Don’t you Worry ‘Bout a Thing; 4.  Shower the People; 5.  Yardbird Suite; 6.  Believe in Me; 7.  Shine on Harvest Moon; 8.  Smile; 9.  Around the World

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Christine Hitt is a jazz lover’s dream vocalist.  She effortlessly transforms standards and pop hits into modern-day jazz classics which should appease just about every music lover.  She is also a multi-instrumentalist with both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Music.  Besides singing, she is currently a coach for jazz pianists and vocalists at the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire.  This amazing album was recorded at Capitol Records and features John Beasley, Jeff Hamilton, Gene Coye, Leo Amuedo and Bob Sheppard, and was produced by Geoffrey Keezer.  Our favorite track is her cover of James Taylor’s “Shower the People.”

Recommendation:  Check this one out.

Artist Name:  Bugge Wesseltoft & Prins Thomas

Album Name:  Bugge Wesseltoft & Prins Thomas

Label:  Smalltown Supersound

Genre:  Instrumental Jazz/EDM

Track Listing:  1.  Furugerget; 2.  Norte do Brasil; 3.  Sin Tempo; 4.  Bar Asfelt; 5.  Epilog

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  What do you get when you blend one of the world’s premier ECM jazz musicians with a modern day electronic dance artist?  You get an interesting mix of music that is not only fun to listen to, but will get you in the mood for dancing as well.  NPR debuted this album, and their review is very technical, but a good read.  On our end, these five tracks offer jazz and EDM lovers intriguing melodies performed by a myriad of instruments, including drums, synthesizer and keys.  They even added one of Norway’s greatest jazz drummers, Jon Christensen, the the mix, and his touch is very evident on these tunes, especially “Sin Tempo.”  This is definitely one of the most unique collaborations we have ever reviewed, and we like it, a lot.  Thank you Norway for sharing two of your greatest treasures.

Recommendation:  We guarantee you don’t have anything like this in your music library, so definitely go out and Get it.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Sterling Infinity, I See Rivers, The Chamanas, Rocket 3, Escape Goat

We’re back on a Wednesday for another round of Get it or Forget it.  We have five new bands for you to check out, so let’s get this party rolling.

Artist Name:  Sterling Infinity

Album Name:  Sterling Infinity (Deluxe)

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  EDM/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Sterling Infinity (Calling); 2.  Put me in Your Mouth; 3.  Wolf Sex; 4.  #Hypnotized – #SexDrone Remix; 5.  Say Hey 2U;  6.  You’ve Changed; 7.  #XWeveLanded – Soul Raptured Remix; 8.  The Infinite One -1- Sterling Infinity; 9.  #Hypnotized (Pyramid Black Club Remix); 10.  #Hypnotized (Baby Girl); 11.  #Hypnotized – #SexDrone Remix (radio version); 12.  Xstacy We’ve Landed

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  Listening to the lyrics of these intense dance tunes, it’s hard to believe that Sterling Infinity was a former gospel singer.  What he is now is the reincarnation of Prince, and his lyrics are filled with sexual images and innuendos, superimposed over a driving dance beat.  These songs will definitely get you moving on the dance floor.  Apparently, he is hoping you really like “#Hypnotized,” as there are four versions of the song on this album.  It is hard to get an accurate impression of the singer from these dance tunes, and we hope that he releases some more lyric-driven songs in the future like “Say Hey 2U” and “You’ve Changed,” which could do well on the radio.

Recommendation:  If you love to dance, then this is your album.  If you prefer songs with substance, then you might want to forget this one.

Artist Name:  I See Rivers

Album Name:  I See Rivers

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Play it Cool; 2.  Give Up; 3.  I Don’t Know; 4.  I Think I Like You

Publicist:  Lander PR

Review:  The first thing that grabs you about I See Rivers is the incredible harmony of their voices.  The songs are well written and would do well on the radio and as placements on television and film.  These ladies could SING, and could probably sell copies of them singing the phone book.  They remind us of such wonderful girl groups as Wilson Phillips, Raining Jain and Redhead Express.  Our only regret is that there are only four tracks on the EP, because we want to hear more.  This one is definitely going on repeat.

Recommendation:  I See Rivers is heading to the top of the charts.  Get this one now.

Artist Name:  The Chamanas

Album Name:  NEA II

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Latin Pop

Track Listing:  1.  La Verdad; 2.  Wedding Cake; 3.  Un Tulipán; 4.  Primera Vez; 5.  Descansar; 6.  Feel it Still; 7.  El Farol; 8.  Saltar; 9.  Alma Ciega; 10.  Desprender

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  The Chamanas hail from the bordertowns of El Paso, Texas and Cuidad Juarez, Mexico, and have already garnered a Latin Grammy nomination for their debut album.  On NEA II, they have re-recorded their sophomore album NEA, and added their first English language songs to the mix.  Behind the amazingly silky smooth vocals of Paulina Reza, the band, composed of Manual Calderon on keys, Hectro Carreon on guitar and Alejandro Bustillios on drums continues the rich musical heritage of Selena, making this incredible Latin pop available to America.  Regardless of whether you know Spanish or not, you will love the sound of this band, and will want to hear them again and again, especially their Spanish cover of Portugal. The Man‘s huge hit, “Feel it Still.”

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one, the sooner the better!

Artist Name:  Rocket 3

Album Name:  What’s the Frequency?

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Pop

Track Listing:  1.  I Choose Love; 2.  Echoes; 3.  What If; 4.  Hip Shot; 5.  Favorite Thing; 6.  Slow Your Roll; 7.  Giving Up; 8.  I Don’t Need You; 9.  Evershine

Publicist:  In Music We Trust

Review:  Portland-based pop-punk band Rocket 3 has been burning up the local music scene since 2012, and released their debut album Burn in 2014.  The album reached #76 on the CMJ Top 200 album charts, and earned the band critical praise.  They return for their sophomore release with further proof that they are not a fluke.  With a sound similar to No Doubt, these guys could just make as huge a splash on Top 40 radio as they have on College Radio.  The songs are generally upbeat, despite the heavy tone of the lyrics.  Overall, the songs are generally relatable, as we have all been through the ups and downs of love and most of us addictions as well.  Listen carefully to the lyrics and be encouraged that you are not alone.

Recommendation:  This one deserves to be in the music library of every pop music lover.  Get it.

Artist Name:  Escape Goat

Album Name:  Escape Goat

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Funk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Imaginary Saint; 2.  Prisoner’s Dilemma; 3.  Beehive; 4.  Autopilot; 5.  Fortify; 6.  Writing on the Wall

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Edmonton, Canada has provided us with another dose of great alternative indie music in the form of Escape Goat.  Their music is strong, with well-written lyrics, a funky bass beat from Erin Dobbin, and memorable vocals from lead singer Scott Renton.  The band also features amazing guitar licks from guitarist Neil Jackson and a steady drum beat from Kyle Anderson.  The album starts off strong with “Imaginary Saint” and continues to impress all the way through.  Their music contains the best of rock combined with funk, and should make them even more accessible to the American radio scene, especially college radio.  We think the band would do well touring the States, and look forward to the opportunity to catch their live performance.

Recommendation:  If you love to rock, or just love great music, then you simply must Get this one.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Thornton Lee and the Dirty Blues Company, Ian Crawford, Luke Daggers, Marshall, Walt Weiskopf

Welcome to another week of Get it or Forget it.  We have five unique artists for you to check out today.  Let’s get going.

Artist Name:  Thornton Lee and the Dirty Blues Company

Album Name:  Matheus Mendes

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Juke House; 2.  My Girl is Trouble; 3.  Cutting Heads; 4.  Crash, Regret and Cry; 5.  Bad Eye; 6.  Dirty; 7.  Born in San Antonio; 8.  Dark Fall and Night Creeps; 9.  Golden Hair Blues; 10.  “Free” Train; 11.  Other People’s Problems; 12.  The River

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  There are a lot of blues artists in the world but we have never heard the blues played like Thornton Lee and the Dirty Blues Company.  Th e closest comparison we can find is the sound of The Blues Brothers – lots of horns, honky-tonking keys, gravelly voice and a damn good time.  This is party-time blues aka the dirty blues, and we think it is simply amazing.  This album starts off strong and gets even better.  This is the kind of blues that you put on repeat and just enjoy from start to finish.  They even throw in a little rock and roll on “Cutting Heads.”  As the lyrics say, “Every man and every woman should hear the blues we play.”  You can’t go wrong with this one.

Recommendation:  If you love great music, then you must add this one to your library.  Get it.

Artist Name:  Ian Crawford

Album Name:  Grand Wheel

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Americana/Country

Track Listing:  1.  Wool Mind; 2.   I Want You; 3.  Grand Wheel; 4.  See you in the Fall if the Creek Don’t Rise; 5.  The Storm; 6.  Stingray (Energy of the Unknown); 7.  Barstow Ghost; 8.  We all Fall Down; 9.  Over my Head (bonus track); 10.  Busted (bonus track)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Ian Crawford has been a legend in the city of Seattle, Washington for many years, but has not released an album until now.  The album is currently only available digitally, but we think that it is too good to remain that way.  Combining elements of Americana, country, folk and rock, Crawford brings his A game and sets the bar high for anything he does subsequent to the debut.  This is one of the best debuts we have heard all year, making Crawford an artist that deserves to be at the top of his class.  Just when you think you can stick him in a genre box, he comes along with an instrumental song like “Stingray (Energy of the Unknown)” and you think you’re listening to Jimi Hendrix.  This is an artist that deserves to be on your radar.

Recommendation:  If you only check out one unknown artist this year, it had better be Ian Crawford.  You can’t go wrong here, so Get this one or stream it on Spotify.  You will thank us later.

Artist Name:  Luke Daggers

Album Name:  Into the Night

Label:  Self-released

Genre:

Track Listing:  1.  Into the Night; 2.  Burning Waters; 3.  Mirror; 4.  I Want to Disappear (instrumental)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We have listened to a lot of different levels of production in the thousands of reviews we have previously done.  The debut releases from Ian Crawford and Luke Daggers are on opposite ends of that spectrum.  While there is some good instrumentation here, the vocals leave something to desire.  They are pitchy and not of the same quality as the instrumentation.  We do see potential from this artist, but he is not there yet.

Recommendation:  Just forget this one, but he check out future releases.  We believe he just may surprise us.

Artist Name:  Marshall

Album Name:  Carnivals and Other Tragedies

Label:  Hey Man! Records

Genre:  Folk/Roots

Track Listing:  1,  Carnival Ride; 2,  Merry-go-Round; 3.  Make it Right; 4.  The Devil’s in the Details; 5.  El Nino; 6.  Lost and Found; 7.  The River

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  The title Troubadour is one of the highest you can give to a singer-songwriter, and Marshall has definitely earned that title.  His songs are immaculate, replete with stunning lyrics, amazing guitar and the feeling that  you can learn something from the wisdom of this man.  He has been lighting up the Chicago acoustic music scene for years, and we think it is definitely time for him to spread his sound nationwide.  His music is a mix of the wisdom of Woody Guthrie and the joy of Jim Croce, and we think he definitely deserves a larger audience.   This is one of the best of the best we have reviewed this year.

Recommendation:  Don’t waste any time – Get this one.

Artist Name:  Walt Weiskopf

Album Name:  European Quartet

Label:  Orenda Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  KMA; 2.  Gates of Madrid; 3.  Wizard; 4.  See the Pyramid; 5.  Darth; 6.  Soul Eyes; 7.  Bolivia

Publicist:  Orenda Records

Review:  We couldn’t have planned a better conclusion to today’s Get it or Forget it article than this stirring jazz performance by tenor saxophonist Walt Weiskopf and his European Quartet.  This is some of the best jazz we have heard this year.  Playing with three of Europe’s finest musicians – pianist Carl Winther, bassist Daniel Franck and drummer Anders Mogensen – this recording captures all the beauty and joy of the music of Weiskopf.  You may also know him as the saxophonist for Steely Dan.  This is the perfect soundtrack for your daily wind-down and is best served with a glass of your favorite wine.  Let the music envelope you and soothe your senses as this mellow jazz stimulates your cerebral cortex.  This is by far the best jazz we have heard this year.

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, this is a must-have.  Get it today!

 

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

Get it or forget it – Zach Callison, Constanza Herrero, Benjamin Jason Douglas, Robbie Fulks and Linda Gail Lewis, My Brothers and I

We made it to Friday again.  Unfortunately, there are only two weeks left of summer, so get out there and enjoy.  These five artists should give you some listening enjoyment, so let’s get going.

Artist Name:  Zach Callison

Album Name:  A Picture Perfect Hollywood Heartbreak

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Phantom Love; 2.  Interlude I – Franticity; 3.  She Don’t Know; 4.  Interlude II – Christie Only Knows; 5.  Nightmare; 6.  Interlude III – Second Thoughts; 7.  Curtain Call; 8.  Interlude IV – Showtime (ft Grace Rolek); 9.  War!

Publicist:  Magic Tree Productions

Review:  Zach Callison is best known as an actor on The Cartoon Network (the voice of Steven Universe), and Disney XD (the voice of Prince James on Sofia the First), as well as numerous guests appearances including the role of Brian on The Goldbergs, but he is a fine musician in his own right.  On his debut EP, he combines the best of both worlds with a stirring and theatrical concept album that would also make a great Broadway show.  Callison has set the bar high for his next album with this stellar debut album.  We have no doubt that he will be able to meet or exceed that standard, as his vocal abilities are truly outstanding.  Too few artists can pull off a concept album like this, and we are thankful for the chance to catch an artist on the rise.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Constanza Herrero

Album Name:  Constanza Herrero

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1,  Packing Up; 2.  Silent War; 3.  Caged; 4.  Young Tree; 5.  High Heels; 6.  Me Voy (Packing Up)

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  We featured the video for “Packing Up” recently, and fell in love with the Latin sound of Constanza Herrero.  This lady has a very bright future on the radio, and we believe she could become a superstar.  She has the look and sound to make it big, and her music would make great placements for television and film.  There is not a weak song on the EP, and we think this one belongs on repeat.  We really love “Packing Up” as well as the ballad “Caged,” but all of the tracks are simply great music.  She closes the EP with a Spanish version of “Packing Up,” giving her the chance to cross-over to Latin stations.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Benjamin Jason Douglas

Album Name:  First World Blues

Label:  Flour Sack Cape Records

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1,  Tentpole; 2.  Beat Black and Blue Collar Blues; 3.  Walking Down the Grain; 4.  Raggedy Andy Williams; 5.  Doc Red Blues; 6.  Digging a Stigmata; 7.  Funny Feeling; 8.  Tchoupitoulas; 9.  Street Preacher; 10.  Gloria

Publicist:  Broken Jukebox Media

Review:  With his gravelly voice, Americana is the perfect choice for the musical style of Benjamin Jason Douglas.  The album has been a work in progress for the past three years, and the results were worth the wait.  He is already getting critical praise for his first single, “Raggedy Andy Williams,” and we think that the praise will continue for the entire album.  His songs are reminiscent of Randy Newman, capturing the wit and humor in his lyrics.  He even gives us a gospel sound for “Tentpole.”  With his various different musical styles, we think this album accurately portrays the state of Americana music today.

Recommendation:  If you are a fan of Americana music, then this album should be at the top of your “Must Have” list.

Artist Name:  Robbie Fulks and Linda Gail Lewis

Album Name:  Wild! Wild! Wild!

Label:  Bloodshot Records

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Round too Long; 2.  I Just Lived a Country Song; 3.  That’s why They Call it Temptation; 4.  Wild Wild Wild; 5.  Who Cares; 6.  Till Death; 7.  Memphis Never Falls From Style; 8.  Boogie Woogie Country Gal; 9.  Foolmaker; 10.  Your Red Wagon; 11.  On the Jericho Road; 12.  It Came From the South; 13.  Hardluck, Mississippi

Publicist:  Bloodshot Records

Review:  Robbie Fulks is a Grammy nominated singer-songwriter while Linda Gail Lewis is the younger sister of Jerry Lee Lewis.  Together they recreate the amazing rockabilly sound made famous by her older brother, and sound great in the process.  It is no wonder that Lewis has been making music for more than 50 years, but the surprise that this is only her third album.  (The other two were a duet album with her brother and You Win Again with Van Morrison.)  Fulks, on the other hand, has recorded 13 solo albums since 1996, receiving two Grammy nominations for Folk Album and American Roots Song (“Alabama at Night”).  This amazing collaboration should earn him another nomination, as every song is simply perfect classic country.

Recommendation:  This one is a must have for every lover of classic country and early rockabilly music.  Get it now!

Artist Name:  My Brothers and I

Album Name:  Heartbeat

Label:  Expunged Records

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  When You’re Ready; 2.  Temporary Love; 3.  Didn’t see it Coming; 4.  Just Getting to Know You; 5.  My Heart; 6.  Always be Loving You

Publicist:  Impulse Artists

Review:  Back in March 2016, we had the privilege to review this band at the final stop of their tour in Spokane, Washington.  Their released their debut album Don’t Sleep Alone back in 2015, so we’ve been patiently waiting for their new one.  Trust us – it was time well spent.  Their arrangements are tighter, the songs are extremely well written, and definitely sound better than most of what’s on today’s Top 40 radio stations.  This EP could be the breakout the band has been waiting for, starting with the lead track, “When You’re Back.”  Other impressive tracks include “Didn’t See it Coming,” the bittersweet “Just Getting to Know You,” and “My Heart.”

Recommendation:  You simply must Get this one today!

 

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

Get it or forget it – Crack of Dawn, Xeresa, Black Cat Road, Peter Kleinhans, Delta Will

Finally, a true day off.  We will still be busy here on Indie Voice Blog, with a ton of album and performance reviews on the way.  In the meantime, here are five new artists to check out.

Artist Name:   Crack of Dawn

Album Name:   Spotlight

Label: Ford Street Records

Genre:   R&B/Funk

Track Listing: 1.  Crack of Dawn; 2.  Somebody’s Watching; 3.  Booby Ruby; 4.  Keep the Faith; 5.  It’s Alright; 6.  Ol’ Skool; 7.  Seasons Change; 8.  Spotlight; 9.  Your Love; 10.  Changes

Publicist:   Last Tango Media

Review:   Take the funkiness of Parliament, add in the horns of Tower of Power and the amazing vocals and songwriting of Earth, Wind and Fire, and you have an idea of the awesomeness of Crack of Dawn.  The party starts on the first note and lasts until the end of the album.  It is impossible not to get a smile on your face listening to these jams, and we think this album is the perfect remedy to the summer doldrums.  Every track is killer, and we would love to hear them on the radio.  If you love Old School R&B and funk, then you simply must check out Canada’s premier band, Crack of Dawn!

Recommendation:   Get this one and get your groove on!

Artist Name: Xeresa

Album Name:   II

Label:   Shore Dive Records

Genre:   Electronica/Shoegaze

Track Listing:   1.  Arcturon (ft Roman Kalitkin); 2.  California Queen; 3.  Killer (ft Anastasia Panchenko); 4.  The Good Life (ft Tom Lugo); 5.  Atlanta to Mumbai (ft Nicolas Castello); 6.  Feels Like the First Time (ft Mina Karimi); 7.  The Last Genesis (ft Nicollette Vaughn); 8.  Fehlerfluss (ft Vlimmer); 9.  And I Don’t Know About you Now (ft Phil Wilson and Claire Janet Oneill); 10.  Far Beyond the World of Sleep; 11.  I’m Your Vessel (ft Dani Mari); 12.  Newtonite (ft Corasandel); 13.  Ocean (ft Cat Hall); 14.  Xeresa’s Theme

Publicist:   Shore Dive Records

Review:  Some of the best electronica we have ever heard seems to come out of the UK, and Xeresa is no exception.  Their second album is a wonderful collection of electronica/shoegaze that kept our toes tapping with the great beat, while the vocals kept our ears filled with a groovy sound.  This is perfect music for your party or just good times in general.  Our favorite tracks include “Killer,” “The Good Life,” “And I Know About you Now,” “Newtonite,” and “Ocean.”

Recommendation:  We think you should definitely Get this one.

Artist Name:  Black Cat Road

Album Name:  Black Cat Road

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Crow Show; 2.  Faith and Ammunition; 3.  Undertow; 4.  Hard Hearted Woman; 5.  Rock Salt and Nails; 6.  Watch the Middle; 7.  Work It; 8.  Coal Mine; 9.  Rain Pushing; 10.  Eleanor; 11.  Talk is Cheap; 12.  Black Cat Road; 13.  Damned

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  From the far reaches of Maine comes an amazing mixture of rock and blues called Black Cat Road.  Featuring the stellar vocals and washboard of Jessie Mae Hines, this killer band features Steve “the Ice Man” Bailey on guitar and vocals, Kate Seavey on bass, guitar and vocals, Don “SlowPoke Johnson” Reed on keys, percussion and bass, and Chris “Krank” Hartogh on drums.  This is drinking music, perfect for that Friday night party or anytime you want to have a good time.   Besides Hines’ vocals, Bailey shows he can also sing the blues on “Hard Hearted Woman.”  There is not a weak track on the album, and we recommend you put it on repeat and just have fun.

Recommendation:  You simply MUST Get this one.  You will not regret the decision in the morning.

Artist Name:  Peter Kleinhans

Album Name:  Something’s not Right

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  3,000,000 Years; 2.  A Separate Time; 3.  Leaving Home; 4.  To Hell and Back; 5.  Something’s not Right; 6.  Falling Apart; 7.  Sky Blue; 8.  ’til the Music Stops; 9.  Turn the Tide; 10.  Waltz Into Darkness; 11.  Halifax Harbor

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  Peter Kleinhans adds a little jazz to his pop/rock vibe, making the music brighter and even more upbeat, starting with the first note of “3,000,000 Years.”  This is one of the best debut albums we have reviewed, and we see great things ahead for this artist.  He has a little of “Weird Al” in his tongue-in-cheek lyrics, and every song is well crafted and well written.  These songs make political statements, and speak out loud what so many Americans are thinking and feeling inside.  In many ways, this album could be a modern-day version of the protest songs of Woody Guthrie.

Recommendation:  Definitely give this one a spin!

Artist Name:  Delta Will

Album Name:  Multitudes I

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Psych-pop and soul

Track Listing:  1.  Liquid Magma; 2.  Nothing is Enough; 3.  Into the Wild; 4.  Tout va Bien; 5.  No Skin no Bones; 6.  Feel Like

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Toronto based Delta Will is released their album in three parts, and this album is the first section.  Through the three portions, a full image of the band should emerge, and possibly we will be able to categorize their genre-bending sound.  There are elements of retro new wave and 80s britpop, but the vibe is so much more.  These songs are upbeat and fun, and would be perfect for a multitude of commercial use as well as radio airplay.  We love every song, but are especially impressed by the instrumental “Tout va Bien.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – Get it today and expect parts II and III to be equally as good.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – KT Tunstall, Cosmogyral, Jordan Siwek, Provincial Camps, Hulk Wasabi

Well, we survived Pearl Jam and last night’s rock show which featured New Years Day, In This Moment and Halestorm.  Wach for our review of the show this weekend.  Then I spent this morning taking up the floor from the Pearl Jam concert.  Three crazy days but it was fun work.

Time now for our weekly hump day edition of Get it or Forget it.  Here’s the latest from a familiar face, as well as four new artists.  Let’s get going.

Artist Name:  KT Tunstall

Album Name:  BBC Live Sessions

Label:  Universal Music/EMI

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Black Horse and Cherry Tree; 2.  Tangled up in Blue; 3.  The Prayer; 4.  Suddenly I See; 5.  Fake Plastic Trees, 6.  Other Side of the World; 7.  Get ur Freak On

Publicist:  Right Angle PR

Review:  We were lucky enough to catch KT Tunstall when she opened for Barenaked Ladies at the Big Sky Amphitheater earlier this summer, and have been fans of her music for many years.  This wonderful EP is a compilation of several live performances Tunstall did for the BBC, and captures all the fun and excitement of her live show with a set of some of her biggest hits.

Recommendation:  If you love KT specifically, or great pop music in general, this is a wonderful addition to your collection.  Get it.

Artist Name:  Cosmogyral

Album Name:  Behold

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Apostles of Ignorance; 2.  Reap What you Sow; 3.  Agony & Ecstasy; 4.  Path of Ruin; 5.  Last one Standing; 6.  In Chaos Lies Creation; 7.  Final Judgment; 8.  Time/Set This World Alight; 9.  Coming Storm; 10.  Age of Reason; 11.  Honor in Death; 12.  Behold the Fire’s Rage

Publicist:  Eric Alper PR

Review:  Let me be honest – metal is not my favorite music, but after spending last night watching New Years Day, In This Moment and Halestorm, I more fully understand the intense love metal fans have for their music.  Cosmogryal formed four years ago and has been tearing up the Florida metal scene ever since.  This is their debut album, and it seems that the wait will be worth it for their fans.  The musicanship is first rate, and most of the screamo is understandable.  Their energy comes through loud and clear, and we are sure that their live show is incredible.

Recommendation:  We think it is a worthy effort and definitely worth checking out for any metal fans.

Artist Name:  Jordan Siwek

Album Name:  Sun Inside You

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Island With no Name; 2.  Lover and a Giver; 3.  Sun Inside You; 4.  Reach Me; 5.  Never Give Up; 6.  Can we go Back; 7.  Waiting for  You; 8.  Fun Ride; 9.  Underachiever (Know Your Song); 10.  Ecstasy; 11.  Floating

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  We featured Jordan Siwek’s first single, “Lover and a Giver,” and knew that we would enjoy the entire album.  We were not disappointed.  He truly belongs on the radio, and his songs would also make great placements for commercials as well as television and film.  We may be witnessing the birth of the next Elton John, as Siwek’s music has that same feeling, especially Elton’s early material.  He adds a jazzy vibe to “Island  with no Name” and the title track, which is definitely Top 40 worthy.  He returns to the simple sound of the piano on “Reach Me” and “Underachiever (Know Your Song.”  Other songs that we love include “Never Give Up,” “Waiting for You,” and “Floating.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer.  Definitely Get it.

Artist Name:  Provincial Camps

Album Name:  Fuzz Pop

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Temple in the Sky; 2.  In Your Heart my House; 3.  Bigger Drags; 4.  Mother; 5.  Jaws; 6.  House of Dust; 7.  Life Companion; 8.  See you Tomorrow; 9.  Caroline No; 10.  Retreat

Publicist:  Eric Alper PR

Review:  The musicianship is solid on this new album from Canadian indie rockers Provincial Camps.  We only wish the vocals were as well done.  They tend to be quite pitchy, but the outstanding musical performance behind the vocals makes them tolerable.  The music is perfect for college and underground radio.  With the energy displayed on the album, we imagine they also put on a pretty good live show.

Recommendation:  If you like your indie rock raw, then you will probably enjoy this one.

Artist Name:  Hulk Wasabi

Album Name:  Learning About Shoegaze with Friends!

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Pop/Rock/lo fi

Track Listing:  1.  Space Dog; 2.  A lil bit zen ‘n a lil bit Stud; 3.  I’m Tim Buckley’s Boy; 4.  Basic Situation at Greyhound Station; 5.  The Youth’s Almost Enough; 6.  You Could at Least Leave the Light On (Because it’s Night, Because it’s Time, Because it’s Night-Time); 7.  Chanara; 8.  Hi Kids, Hi Mom

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  This is an interesting album.  “Space Dog” is an instrumental that has almost a carnival-like sound, or something you might hear in a David Lynch film.  As he was quick to point out, the production is lo fi, and the disparity between the quality of the vocals and the instrumentation drives home that point.  The second track has a ska feel that could make an interesting instrumental.  The third track tries on a surf rock style, while  the fourth one is more britpop.  On track five, you get the feeling that you’re listening to a Bond title track,   One thing is for sure, every song is different stylistically, and there should be something for just about everyone here.

Recommendation:  If vocal quality is important to you, you want to skip this one.  Otherwise, we think it is definitely worth checking out.

 

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Trans FX, The 131ers, Ed Prz, Demi Mitchell, Dorian Frankel

This is going to be a very busy week.  We will be spending 16 hours on Monday working the Pearl Jam concert at Washington Grizzly Stadium.  Then on Tuesday, we return to the Big Sky Brewing Company for the Halestorm concert.  In the meantime, here’s our first Get it of Forget it article of the week, and we have a lot of debuts to review this time around.  Enjoy.

Artist Name:  Trans FX

Album Name:  The Showroom Dummies

Label:  Reversed Tornado

Genre:  Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  The Way it Sounds (ft. Lillian Maring); 2.  The Common Good / Is it Ever Enough; 3.  Sunday Morning (Reed/Cale) (ft. Abby Dahlquist); 4.  Something Better; 5.  Modern Working Woman (ft. Lillian Maring); 6.  People Like You; 7.  I’m a Dreamer (Denny) (ft. Valerie Warren); 8.  Vertigo (ft. Valerie Warren)

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  This is a very strange album.  It is obvious that some thought went into these songs, but it seems almost like they are totally unmastered.  The vocals sound like they were added to the music separately and never blended in, which makes for a very disjointed sound.  Of the three vocalists Trans FX uses for this project, none of them seem to grasp the complexity of the music, and their voices don’t do anything for the songs.

Recommendation:  Just Forget it.

Artist Name:  The 131ers

Album Name:  Nothing’s as it Should Be

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Crazy; 2.  Don’t Wanna Go; 3.  Ballerina; 4.  Face On; 5.  Get Rich; 6.  OG Food; 7.  Close my Eyes; 8.  I Lost; 9.  Rome; 10.  Leave This Man Behind; 11.  Nothings’ as it Should Be

Publicist:  Independent Music Media

Review:  Torrance, California is the home of The 131ers, and they should count themselves very lucky indeed.  The band is an indie rock quartet that mixes indie rock with funk, edge and soul, creating rock and roll that makes you want to dance.  Their sophomore album could be the soundtrack for all of your summer activities.  It kicks off with the fun and imaginative “Crazy” and never misses a beat.  We recommend that you just put this one on repeat, because one listen just ain’t enough.  We think “Get Rich” could be their break-out radio hit, so station managers, check out this band and add “Get Rich” to  your rotation.

Recommendation:  Get this one before you start your summer activities.  You’ll be glad you did.

Artist Name:  Ed Prz

Album Name:  For You

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter

Track Listing:  1.  Intro; 2.  For You; 3.  Better Days; 4.  Where all Dreams Dwell; 5.  Everything Turns to Gold; 6.  One with the Stars

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The songs on Ed Prz’s debut EP are raw, as he recorded them in his bedroom. They feel very intimate, as if you are sitting in the room with him, and for that reason alone, they have serious potential.  We would love for him to get a good producer that would bring out all of his hidden talent and make these songs pop.  We salute Prz for his valiant effort, and would love to listen again when his songs are more polished.

Recommendation:  Put this one on simmer.   We’re sure it will be ready later.

Artist Name:  Demi Mitchell

Album Name:  The Overflow

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock/Acid Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Get it Together; 2.  Out of Here; 3.  Dancing in the Sand; 4.  Dark Sea; 5.  The Overflow; 6.  Fiction From Fact; 7.  Medicine Woman; 8.  Man of my Mind; 9.  Coming Down

Publicist:  Collected PR

Review:  Demi Mitchell is further proof that some of the best indie music is coming from down under.  Mitchell hails from Newcastle, Australia, and brings her amazing mix of alt rock, folk and Americana to the Americas just in time to ride the current wave of Americana love that is permeating our music scene.  We think she should do quite well on American radio, and look forward to catching her on tour, preferably opening for someone like Mumford & Sons, The Infamous Stringdusters or Chris Stapleton.  She reminds us a bit of Lydia Loveless, and we think they would make a smashing collaboration.  We love this album, and every song is great.  Put it on repeat, grab a glass of wine, and chill.

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one.

Artist Name:  Dorian Frankel

Album Name:  One More Song

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Country/Folk/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Handful of Sunshine; 2.  Be my You; 3.  The Pull; 4.  Vampire; 5.  Will you be Okay; 6.  Made of Music; 7.  Cross a Line; 8.  Naked; 9.  Another Close Call; 10.  Lydia; 11.  Broken; 12.  Hollyweed; 13.  Everybody Can Sing; 14.  The ballad; 15.  I Can’t Lie; 16.  Be Nice; 17.  If it Were Easy; 18.  These Important Days; 19.  Just Go; 20.  A Good Goodbye; 21.  Wordless; 22.  Second Wind; 23.  Strugglers/Stragglers; 24.  One More Song

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  By day Dorian Frankel is a casting director, but when that aspect of her life closes for the day, the inner artist emerges and boy, can she sing.  You can hear the southern country in her voice and inflections, and her music is a combination of country, folk and pop, capturing the best of each genre and adding Frankel’s sweet voice as the cherry on top.  We could see Frankel also sitting in at her favorite piano bar, like maybe Tramp Stamp Grannys, and singing her favorite show tunes along with the pianist and the other celebrity patrons that frequent the club.  Frankel packs 24 songs into this incredible album, so there’s something for everyone here.

Recommendation:  Definitely add this one to your easy listening collection.  Get it today.