Tag: album reviews

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Laura Dickinson, Clark Twain, Brian Falduto, Kuar Nhial, Kenny Carr

It never ceases to amaze us with the quality of recordings coming from the indie music community, not only in the US but around the world.  We have five more quality projects to review today, so let’s get started.

Laura Dickinson

Artist Name: Laura Dickinson

Album Name: Auld Lang Syne

Label: Music and Mirror Records

Genre: Christmas (Jazz/Blues)

Track Listing:  1.  Happy Holiday/The Holiday Season; 2.  I’ve got my Love to Keep me Warm; 3.  Christmas is Starting Now; 4.  Peace and Joy; 5.  (Everybody’s Waiting for) The Man with the Bag (ft Steve Trapin); 6.  Love, You Didn’t do Right by Me (ft Kye Palmer); 7.  A Marshmallow World; 8.  Miss you Most (at Christmas Time); 9.  Let it Snow! Let it Snow! Let it Snow!; 10.  Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas (ft Alan Steinberger); 11.  Auld Lang Syne (ft Andrew Synowiec)

Publicist:   Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Laura Dickinson is a Grammy®-winning music producer, vocal contractor, and studio singer whose voice has been heard in countless movies, television shows and commercials, including two on the Disney Channel (Phineas and Ferb and Sofia the First).  On her sophomore album, she has created a beautiful holiday treasure that will surely become one of the highlights of your holiday music collection.  Besides several traditional Christmas songs, she also covers the Mariah Carey tune “Miss You Most (At Christmas Time).”   She brings a beautiful big band sound to these holiday classics and establishes herself as an incredible solo performer.

Recommendation: This one deserves a place in your holiday collection.  Get it and enjoy the season.

Clark Twain

Artist Name:  Clark Twain

Album Name:  Life is Wonderful

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt-Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Best is Yet to Come; 2.  Fly High (Like Richard Branson); 3.  Try Too Hard; 4.  A Brief Interlude to Dance in the Elevator (with Strangers); 5.  Tiny Windows; 6.  God is She; 7.  Made for This; 8.  Wedding Bells; 9.  Flower Interlude; 10.  Dreams; 11.  Home; 12.  Black Car; 13.  Not Fade Away (Saloon edition)

Publicist: Shameless Promotion

Review:  Clark Twain has a sound comparable to some of the best artists in Top 40 radio, including Toad the Wet Sprocket, Coldplay, Gin Blossoms and Death Cab for Cutie, and his music is equally as radio friendly.  He hits the ground running with “Best is Yet to Come,” and never lets up.  The best tracks include “Best is Yet to Come,” “Try too Hard,” the first single “Tiny Windows,” “Made for This,” “Home” and “Black Car.”

Recommendation: Definitely worth checking out.  We recommend this album for anyone who loves pop music.

Brian Falduto

Artist Name:  Brian Falduto

Album Name:  Stage Two

Label:  Self-released

Genre: Pop/Country

Track Listing:  1.  The One I’m After; 2.  Fault; 3.  Kiss you Back (ft Daniel Joseph Baker); 4.  Rainy Day; 5.  She (ft Kelsey Martin); 6.  What If; 7.  One More (Mateo) (ft Bronwyn Whittle); 8.  Rainy Day (acoustic)

Publicist:  EMPKT PR

Review:  If you’re like most of us, you think 2003’s School of Rock was one of the best movies about music that has ever been made.  Brian Falduto was a cast member in that movie, portraying Billy, the gay kid who became the costume designer for the school band.  Fifteen years later, Falduto is a proud gay man who is releasing his first full length album with a pop/country groove in the style of artists like Dustin Lynch and Cole Swindell.  We think he has serious potential for country radio, and love his sound, especially on “Fault” and “What If,” with their amazing backing vocals, and the beautiful duet with Kelsey Martin on “She.”  Actually, there are no weak tracks on this outstanding debut album, and we think that we’ll be hearing a lot more from the latest actor to become a musician.

Recommendation: Definitely Get this one, sooner rather than later.

Kuar Nhial

Artist Name:  Kuar Nhial

Album Name:  Kuar Nhial

Label:  Consouling Sounds

Genre:  Post-Metal/Black Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Corvus; 2.  Nomam; 3.  Spiraal; 4.  Lamantate

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  Belgian band Kuar Nhial is not your typical “black metal” band.  Their songs do have feature that aggressive style, but there are also moments of cinematic genius that more closely resemble prog rock and post-metal.  Needless to say, this trio is composed of amazing musicians who know how to bring their best to the table.  While they still have some of the “required” screamo vocals, the music is what attracts listeners, who can hear the dedication these players put into their instrumentation.  This debut album spotlights the potential this band has to find its place in the world music scene.

Recommendation:   Definitely check this one out, especially if you are a metal fan.

Kenny Carr

Artist Name:  Kenny Carr

Album Name:  Departure

Label:  Zoozazz

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Intervals; 2.  Time Change; 3.  Tell me I Can’t; 4.  Warmth; 5.  D&P; 6.  Evolutions; 7.  Departure; 8.  Waiting; 9.  Bear Call; 10.  Parallels

Publicist: Kari-On Productions

Review:  Kenny Carr is a gifted musician, composer and arranger and a graduate of Berklee College of Music.  He began his career as part of the band supporting Ray Charles, and spent 10 years working with the legend.  Since then, he has gone on to make his own music.  Departure is his sixth studio album, and stands on its own as one of the best jazz recordings in recent years.  This one is the perfect relaxing soundtrack for your daily chill time, just add a glass of wine and enjoy.  Put this one on repeat and let it melts your cares away.

Recommendation: Definitely Get this one if you are a jazz fan.  It is a premier addition to your collection.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Shane Guerrette, DJ Robert Luis, Destroy Boys, BlissBliss, Tolliver

We’re back with another edition of Get it or Forget it, now working on the first half of 2019 cycle for the LA Music Critic Awards.  During our down time, the requests just kept coming in, and we have almost 100 submissions already for this next cycle.  Let’s get this party started!

Shane Guerrette.jpg

Artist Name:  Shane Guerrette

Album Name:  Shane Guerrette

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Nomadic Soul; 2.  Ivory and Gold; 3.  Runaway Blues; 4.  Good Times

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Shane Guerrette is a new breed of artist, who cultivated his following on YouTube before deciding to release his first EP, which was produced by Bob Cutarella, who has worked with the likes of Eric Clapton, Billy Gibbons and Jeff Beck.  Bob obviously heard something he liked in this young man’s music, and we are here to tell you to believe the hype.  Starting off with the first single, “Nomadic Soul,” this EP gets off to a rocking start and leaves no doubt that this young man will soon become a household name.  His music packs a wallop, and is radio-friendly and ready.  We only wish there were more than four songs here because we could listen to his music all day.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Shapes Mountains

Artist Name:  DJ Robert Luis (various artists)

Album Name:  Shapes:  Mountains

Label:  Tru Thoughts Recordings

Genre:  Label Compilation

Track Listing:  1.  The List (Moonchild); 2.  Distant Heart (Wrongtom remix) (The Seshen); 3.  Vortex Number 9 (Uniting of Opposites); 4.  Night Driving (Ivy Lab remix) (Rhi); 5.  Glass Games (Werkha ft Bryony Jarman-Pinto); 6.  Blue (Space Captain); 7.  Habesha (TeÀmir); 8.  California Love (Sly5thAve ft Cory Henry); 9.  Ojos Vicheros (Quantic and Nidia Gongora); 10.  Can’t Nobody Get Down (Alphabets Heaven remix) (Hot 8 Brass Band; 11.  Run Away (Eric Lau & Kaidi Tatham remix) (Moonchild); 12.  It’ll Come (Belleruche); 13.  Hotline Bling (Quantic y Los Miticos del Ritmo); 14.  A GCSE in Dub (Wrongtom Meets the Ragga Twins); 15.  Little Steps Dub (Prince Fatty Meets Nostalgia 77); 16.  All I Know (Rhi remix) (The Seshen); 17.  Freezing Point (Poppy Ackroyd reimagining) (Manuu Delago); 18.  Wingbeats (Max Cooper remix) (Hidden Orchestra); 19.  Passing Time (Nonames ft Alexa Harley); 20.  J-Freq (J-Felix); 21.  Car Number 27/Mr. Alpo (Tim Deluxe remix) (Uniting of Opposites); 22.  Testimony (Anchorsong); 23.  Find my Way (Aurora Dee Raynes); 24.  Air Sign (KXNGS); 25.  Backbeat (Jonny Faith); 26.  Amor en Francia (Sideswipe remix) (Quantic & Nidia Gongora; 27.  Cherry Glow (Chug remix) (Rhi); 28.  Original Nuttah (Magic Drum Orchestra (ft Bunty); 29.  Foundation (Durrty Goodz ft Flowdan & Sharky Major); 30.  Bodybag (Flowdan ft Irah); 31.  Raving Bully (Sleepin’ Giantz); 32.  Still D.R.E. (Ed West remix) (Sly5thAve)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Tru Thoughts Recordings has been turning out quality records for the past 19 years.  With the assistance of DJ Robert Luis, co-owner and A&R of Tru Thoughts, they have put together a dynamic collection of quality original songs and remixes.  These songs span the musical gamut from old skool R&B, pop, funk and jazz to reggae, dub step, world and electronic.  Best tracks include “Glass Games,” “Blue,” “California Love,” “Runaway,” “It’ll Come,” “Testimony,” “Find my Way,” “Backbeat,” “Amor en Francia,” and “Still D.R.E.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out – we’re sure you’ll find something you like here.

Destroy Boys

Artist Name:  Destroy Boys

Album Name:  Make Room

Label:  Uncool Records

Genre:   Riot Grrl Punk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  American River; 2.  Methatonin; 3.  Vixen; 4.  Nerve; 5.  BFF; 6.  Piedmont; 7.  Crybaby; 8.  Gold Medal; 9.  Duck Eat Duck World; 10.  Soundproof

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Destroy Boys bring their own version of punk-infused rock and roll that is more akin to the sound of The Runaways and Shiragirl than The Ramones.  Lead singer Alexia Roditis’ powerful pipes and haunting melodies combined with Vi Mayugba’s shredding guitar licks are both an homage and an evolution of all things classically punk. They have already impressed legendary Green Day singer Billie Joe Armstrong, who mentioned the band by name when he was interviewed by Rolling Stone Magazine.  Equally impressive is that at the time, neither Roditis or Mayugba had even graduated from high school.  Although both are enrolled at Mills College in Oakland, we believe their impressive musicianship will ensure that they won’t need to fall back on their future college degree.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one and hop on their train before it leaves the station.

blissbliss

Artist Name:  BlissBliss

Album Name:  3

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Right Where you Are; 2.  I’m Coming Through; 3.  No Apology; 4.  Unshakable; 5.  Bulletproof

Publicist:  Heapsaflash

Review:  We featured the video for their first single, “Right Where you Are,” in our Ten Amazing Videos from November 2018, and were simply floored by the old school R&B/pop smoothness of Rene Garcia and Lang Bliss, aka BlissBliss.  Their sound is truly sophisticated and should appeal to music fans of all ages.  All five of these songs are killa and deserve to be put on a loop.  You’ll want to hear them over and over again.  They are jazzy and radio friendly for a myriad of formats.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one.

Tolliver

Artist Name:  Tolliver

Album Name:  Rites

Label:  Icons Creating Evil Art

Genre:  Alt R&B

Track Listing:  1.  I Gotchu; 2.  Emmanuel; 3.  Picture of you Naked; 4.  Twisted

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  Born the son of a Baptist minister, Tolliver embraces both the angel and devil in himself with these four songs about not only the pleasures of doing bad things, but the consequences of those actions.  The words come from not only his gospel upbringing but personal experience, and he feels comfortable talking about both sides of the equation.  His music is sensual and smooth, but also full of wisdom he has learned.  Ultimately, he leaves it to the listener to decide whether the consequences are worth the pleasure.  Lots of food for thought in these four songs.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you check this one out.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Lauren Jaimes, del-Toros, Jason Erie, The Dream Logic, Hollie Haines

This is our final Get it or Forget it of the current LA Music Critic Awards cycle, and it has been a wild ride over the past six months.  We wish we could give awards to every one of them, but that is not possible, so we will continue to sort through them before announcing the nominations on December 7.  We hope you have enjoyed checking them out as much as we have enjoyed reviewing them.

Artist Name:  Lauren Jaimes

Album Name:  Here to Stay

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Worn out Memory; 2.  Song to Pa; 3.  Leave the Light On; 4.  Need You More; 5.  Real Bad Habit; 6.  Cherry Pie

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Country radio has a new sweetheart in the music of Lauren Jaimes, who combines the best of Kacey Musgraves, Miranda Lambert and Kelsea Ballerini.  The songs come from the heart, and that passion comes through loud and clear, especially on the very personal “Song to Pa.”  We love every track on this EP, and think it is one of the very best of 2018.  “Leave the Light On” is a hit, and deserves serious rotations now.  We love her vocals and these well-written songs, and intend to put them on repeat.

Recommendation:  Go.  Get.  This.

Artist Name:  del-Toros

Album Name:  Ten Stories High

Label:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Genre:  Alt Surf-rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t Wipe; 2.  Octowave; 3.  End of the World; 4.  Halloween Theme; 5.  21-74 (ft Bertus Borgers); 6.  Gingerchord; 7.  SoCal Killings; 8.  King of the Rockettool (ft Peter te Bos); 9.  Loose Lips; 10.  Theme for Great Cities

Publicist:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Review:  The Netherlands continues to impress with another one of their bands.  The music of del-Toros is sort of like Dick Dale on speed, with a harder edge to the signature surf rock sound.  The album contains nine instrumental tracks, with the only vocals coming from Peter te Bos (Claw Boys Claw) on the track “King of the Rockettool.”  We really love their interpretation of the “Halloween Theme.”  This one is a keeper.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Jason Erie

Album Name:  The Art of Letting Go

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Talking to Chairs; 2.  Conversation with a Bottle; 3.  Lorelai; 4.  Black Lung; 5.  Gold Rush; 6.  The Art of Letting Go; 7.  Some Kind of Way

Publicist:  Brennan Management

Review:  Jason Erie reveals a lot about his life in this seven-song collection of modern-day folk songs.  He talks about growing up in a broken home, watching his mother suffer from alcohol addiction and his father give everything to his job, and having to grow up faster than normal.  While not so much protest songs, these tunes are reminiscent of the legacy of Woody Guthrie with a little bit of Dolly Parton wit and wisdom.   We really love the rocking sound of “Conversation with a Bottle,” as well as the haunting vocal duet and tantalizing fiddle on “Gold Rush.”  The final track “Some Kind of Way” has a John Mellencamp feel that would make it a great radio single.

Recommendation:  This one will haunt you if you don’t Get it now.  Jump on this train before it leaves the station.

Artist Name:  The Dream Logic

Album Name:  Liquid Sunshine

Label:  Chaos Music

Genre:  Jam/Blues Fusion

Track Listing:  1.  Fakes and Fools; 2.  Without You; 3.  The Spider; 4.  I’m Gonna Take it From You; 5.  Queen of Hearts; 6.  Liquid Sunshine; 7.  I’m Afraid to Speak; 8.  A Beautiful Thrill; 9.  The Kiss Off; 10.  Looking Into the Future; 11.  Kinda You; 12.  You Wrecked Me; 13.  Disconnected

Publicist:  Two Sheps That Pass

Review:  NYC gives us yet another amazing jam band with the latest offering from Charles Compo, Camille Gainer and Jerry Brooks, collectively known as The Dream Logic.  Their brand of rock and roll fuses elements of jam, funk, acid jazz and blues, along with a touch of 60s soul.  Gainer’s drums fit seamlessly with Brooks’ funky bass beat to lay the perfect foundation for multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Compo to complete.  This is the perfect soundtrack for every day, with a funky groove that is uniquely theirs.  You will definitely want to put this one on repeat.

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

Artist Name:  Hollie Haines

Album Name:  Letters to my Last Love

Label:  Championed by 6 Music

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Except for You; 2.  Like I Used To; 3.  All You Did; 4.  Since You’ve Been Gone; 5.  I Got Through, Babe; 6.  Better; 7.  Mine

Publicist:  Lander PR

Review:  With a vocal style reminiscent of Enya, Hollie Haines brings a haunting and electrifying sound to her dreamy folk songs.  Her contemporary touch is refreshing, making this album perfect for chill time or when you just want to reflect on life.  The chamber orchestration adds to this feeling of well-being that comes through crystal clear, despite the sometimes melancholy lyrics.  These are songs that are instantly memorable, and will haunt you like few other artists’ songs can.  The vocal harmonies on “Since You’ve Been Gone” are heavenly, and add to the mystique of the song.  We also love the tongue-in-cheek tribute to Sonny and Cher in her song “I Got Through, Babe.”

Recommendation:  We highly recommend this one.  Go Get it!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Hadden Sayers, Popa Chubby, Mariel Austin, Paper Gliders, The RG’s

We started sorting through the nearly 500 submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018 yesterday.  There were so many great albums submitted it is going to be a very difficult job for our committee to choose the nominations, but we think you will be happy with our choices.  Start thinking about your fan favorite because the voting will open on Friday and run for three weeks.  The winners will be announced on January 4.  In the meantime, we have five more new releases to share, so here we go.

   

Artist Name:  Hadden Sayers

Album Name:  Dopamine Machine/Acoustic Dopamine

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Unsatisfied; 2.  I Feel Love; 3.  Hit the Road; 4.  Blood Red Coupe DeVille; 5.  Wanting Wanting; 6.  Good Good Girl; 7.  Learning to Disappear; 8.  Peppermint Patty; 9.  Dopamine Machine; 10.  Gravity; 11.  Backbreaker

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  Hadden Sayers is one of the hardest rocking blues guitarist in the world.  Even Billy Gibbons looks up to him.  This time around not only has he released a killer album in Dopamine Machine, but he has also recorded a companion acoustic album of the same songs, with nothing but the sweet voice of Ruthie Foster to help him.  This masterpiece is definitely one of the best blues rock albums we have ever had the privilege of reviewing.  We can’t choose the best tracks because all 11 of them are smoking hot, especially the lead track “Unsatisfied” and the smooth blues sound of “Blood Red Coupe DeVille.”  This album needs to be heard again and again.

Recommendation:  Do whatever it takes to Get both of these albums.  They deserve the highest place in your musical collection.

Artist Name:  Popa Chubby

Album Name:  Prime Cuts (The Very Best of the Beast From the East)

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Life is a Beat Down; 2.  Angel on my Shoulder; 3.  Hey Joe; 4.  Stoop Down Baby; 5.  Sweet Goodness of Love and Beer; 6.  San Catri; 7.  Caffeine and Nicotine; 8.  Grown Man Crying Blues; 9.  Go Fuck Yourself (ft Theodora Horowitz); 10.  Hallelujah; 11.  Somebody let the Devil Out; 12.  I Can’t see the Light of Day; 13.  Dirty Lie; 14.  Daddy Played the Guitar; 15.  There on Christmas

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  NYC-based Popa Chubby is a beast on the blues guitar, and in this collection he has chosen his favorite tracks from his 30 year career, including an incredible cover of the Leonard Cohen classic, “Hallelujah.”  He also includes a previously unreleased political rant appropriately called “Go Fuck Yourself,”  which features his daughter on violin, as well as a holiday track, “There on Christmas.”  This is traditional blues at its best, and will appeal to every true blues lover.  As he says in “Angel on my Shoulder,” “spread your wings and fly.”

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, then this is a must-have for your collection.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  Mariel Austin

Album Name:  Runner in the Rain

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  A Rough, Unsorted Compiling of Ways not to Exist; 2.  Night Dreamer; 3.  Mirrorshift; 4.  One-way Journey Home; 5.  Runner in the Rain

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Up and coming jazz trombonist Mariel Austin is also a producer, arranger and composer, and she has created this short but sweet five-song masterpiece especially for big band as an introduction of sorts.  On her debut EP, she shows why she is an award winning jazz musician, and provides a beautiful soundtrack for your everyday life.  This is the perfect album to introduce your friends to the beauty of jazz.

Recommendation:  Definitely add this one to your list.

Artist Name:  Paper Gliders

Album Name:  Trials

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  This Magazine Scene; 2.  Petri Dish; 3.  Birthday Candles

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  With harmonies galore and a brilliant progressive pop sound, Houston’s own Paper Gliders make beautiful music together.  This all-too-short three-song EP gives us just a taste of their brilliance, and whets our appetite for their first full-length album.  The guitars are dreamy as are the vocals, and the well-crafted songs are truly radio friendly.  We think they have a great future in store and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Recommendation:  Definitely take a chance on this band.  They are truly worthy of future stardom.

Artist Name:  The RG’s

Album Name:  The Cricket Sound

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bored Ass Tony; 2.  Stevie, the guy who Didn’t pay Us; 3.  The Cricket Sound; 4.  Dirty Allan; 5.  All Day; 6.  Keep Your Secrets; 7.  Dead Inside; 8.  My Friend Ed; 9.  Smack Your Neighbor

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  The RG’s are a Belgian band that brings the rock in the style of Queens of the Stone Age, Alice in Chains and Rival Sons.  Although the music has a hard edge, it is melodic, much like Metallica.  The vocals stand-out and are easily understandable,  contrary to the usual screaming of most hard rock bands.  Much like Taylor Swift, these songs are written about their real-life encounters with people, so don’t piss them off or you might become a song in their catalog, like “Stevie, the Guy Who Didn’t Pay Us.”

Recommendation:  If you like your rock on the hard side, then definitely check out this band.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Grant the Sun, The Skiffle Players, Grave Danger, New London Fire, Air for Ants

Happy Friday.  Tomorrow is the first day of December, and the nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards will be announced on December 7.  As we finish off the final reviews, here are five more for your consideration, including one that is being released today.  Enjoy.

Artist Name:   Grant the Sun

Album Name:  Simmar Ur Bild

Label:   Mas-Kina Recordings

Genre:   Instrumental Metal

Track Listing:   1.  Simmar ur Bild; 2.  Ondskans Vakmastare; 3.  Tje Kjonoj; 4.  Sjuttonde Maj

Publicist:   Viral Propaganda PR

Review:   Grant the Sun is a trio from Norway, featuring founding members of the band Insense, Havard Sveberg and Martin Rygge (who is also the guitarist for Beaten To Death) and childhood friend and guitar virtuoso Markus Lillehaug Johnsen.   The band creates instrumental metal inspired by such bands as Devin Townsend, Extol and Meshuggah.  The music is complex and well-written, and could be useful as placements in commercials, as well as film and television.  It is not overpowering, but melodic metal that excites all the senses.  It is a combination of prog-rock and metal that should appeal to most rock music lovers.

Recommendation:   Definitely give this one a spin – we think you will be delighted by the subtleties and complexities of their sound.

Artist Name:   The Skiffle Players

Album Name:   Skiff

Label:   Spiritual Pajamas

Genre:   Indie Rock

Track Listing:   1.  Cara; 2.  Local Boy; 3.  You’ll Miss it When it’s Gone; 4.  The Law Offices of Dewey, Cheatum and Howe; 5.  Wham!; 6.  Long Horns, Long Necks, Long Legs; 7.  Herbamera; 8.  Los Angeles Alleyway; 9.  Skiffleman; 10.  Harsh Toke; 11.  Oakland Scottish Rite Temple Waltz; 12.  Santa Fe; 13.  Sweet Georgia Brown

Publicist:   Calabro Music Media

Review:   We had the pleasure of reviewing their previous EP Piffle Sayers back in August, and their full length album was definitely worth the wait.  Picking up where their EP left off, they have launched their ship even further into the deep, adding what they call “acoustic dance music” to their more traditional folk sound.  We love the country vibe on their first single, “Local Boy,” and the retro feel of “You’ll Miss it When It’s Gone.”   “Wham!” seems like a natural segue from the classic country song “Baby Likes to Rock It” by The Tractors.  This one is fun from start to finish, and we think there’s something for everyone within these songs.  Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a traditional Skiffle romp through the classic song, “Sweet Georgia Brown.”

Recommendation:   Get it!

Artist Name:   Grave Danger

Album Name:   Let ‘er RIP

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Ska-Goth (Skath)

Track Listing:   1.  Grave Danger; 2.  Escape From Skull City; 3.  Too Ghoul for School

Publicist:   Earshot Media

Review:   Grave Danger have taken ska and combined it with goth, creating a form of music they call skath.  It is a natural progression from the music of Oingo Boingo, and it has all the great vibe of that amazing band.  It was released on October 26, but we couldn’t get to it before Halloween.  Never fear – you don’t have to wait until next Halloween to enjoy this three-song masterpiece.   It will make you “Too Ghoul for School.”

Recommendation:   This one is a hoot – get it!

Artist Name:   New London Fire

Album Name:   Tired of This Man

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Folk-Rock/Americana

Track Listing:   1.  The Fire; 2.  Tired of This Man; 3.  Now I’m Found; 4.  I Still Believe; 5.  You Know I Would; 6.  I Hope You Hear This Song; 7.  Momma It’s Alright; 8.  Abigail; 9.  When it Gets Hard; 10.  Rise Above

Publicist:   Behind the Curtains Media

Review:   Combine the fun of Mumford & Sons with the Celtic vibe of Flogging Molly and the folkiness of The Decemberists and you get New London Fire.  The lyrics are well-crafted and politically on point, and will definitely give you food for thought.  They hit the ground running on “The Fire,” and never let up.  They issue a call to unity and Americanism and provide empowerment to not forget the lessons of the past but use them to grow together, not apart.  This one is definitely going on repeat, as every track has something to offer.  Favorite tracks include “The Fire,” “Now I’m Found,” “I Still Believe,” “You Know I Would,” “I Hope You Hear This Song,” “Abigail,” and “Rise Above.”

Recommendation:   Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:   Air for Ants

Album Name:   Once Again With Feeling

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Indie Rock/Pop

Track Listing:   1.  We’re Together; 2.  Like a Lion or a Tiger or a Bear; 3.  The Loner; 4.  Privyet; 5.  Pieces; 6.  Did You Know You’re Gold; 7.  Cig

Publicist:   Behind the Curtains Media

Review:   Dominic Sahagun’s vocals shine on the latest for Air for Ants, which mixes ambient pop with elements of electronic music, jazz and funk to form their own version of Indie Rock that is uniquely theirs.  Sahagun, a professor at Berklee College of Music, has received high praise from the likes of Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and Ken Nelson, the producer for Coldplay, and you should definitely believe the hype.  This is one of the most interesting albums we have reviewed this year, and we look forward to repeated listens to capture all the nuances of their craft.  This one is just plain fun and truly belongs on the radio.

Recommendation:   Go Get it now!

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Monsta X, Calvin Arsenia, Lost in Japan, Dustin Tebbutt, Dave Tamkin

The indie music scene never sleeps, and we have five more great releases to share with you that demonstrate this obsession.  Let’s keep the train going.

Artist Name:  Monsta X

Album Name:  Are you There?

Label:  Starship Entertainment

Genre:  K-Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Intro:  Are you There?; 2.  Underwater; 3.  Shoot Out; 4.  Heart Attack; 5.  I Do Love U; 6.  Mohae; 7.  Oh My; 8.  Myself; 9.  By my Side; 10.  Spotlight (Korean version)

Publicist:  Gramophone Media

Review:  Boy bands never went away, they just moved to Asia and became K-Pop.  On the other hand, although technically a “boy band”, Monsta X is so much more, combining elements of EDM, PBR&B, Latin rhythm, trap, rock, along with their signature English and Korean sound to keep the listener on their toes.  Not only is their second album a stand-out, but the band is making history by becoming the first K-Pop band to ever play the main stage at the annual KIIS FM Jingle Ball concert, performing on November 30.  We only wish we could be there to watch them shine.  If you are in LA, their performance alone would be worth the price of admission.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one and put it on repeat.

Artist Name:  Calvin Arsenia

Album Name:  Cantaloupe

Label:  Big City Records/Bulleseye Records

Genre:  Jazz/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Headlights; 2.  Tip Toe; 3.  Equally; 4.  Back to You; 5.  Toxic; 6.  Doomed; 7.  The Game; 8.  Palaces; 9.  Poseidon; 10.  Cantaloupe

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Calvin Arsenia is a harpist, singer and multi-instrumentalist from Kansas City who is not satisfied to just play music.  His goal is to transform the listener, while educating them on how to find themselves in the midst of people that want to run their life.  He does this by merging jazz, soul, folk, classical and pop music, creating a sound that Atwood Magazine calls “vibrant, soul-tinged alternative folk,” doing for the harp what Lindsay Sterling has done for the violin.  His voice is smooth, much like John Legend, and this sound will electrify your senses, whether he’s doing one of his originals like his first single, “Headlights” or totally re-creating an amazing cover like Brittney Spears‘ “Toxic.”  This one is going on repeat, especially that amazing title track that closes this masterpiece collection.

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

Artist Name:  Lost in Japan

Album Name:  Lost in Japan

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Lighthouse; 2.  Fake Answers; 3.  Message in the Stars; 4.  For Your Heart; 5.  Good for Now; 6.  Orpheus; 7.  Never was You; 8.  Chasing Time; 9.  Waves; 10.  Don’t Want to let Go; 11.  Passing Through; 12.  Lighthouse pt II

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  This Canadian band has everything they need to make it on the American music scene – amazing vocals, well written songs, perfect musical accompaniment, great guitars, and a chemistry that is palpable.  If you like the music of Maroon 5, then you will love these guys.  From the first notes of “Lighthouse,” you can feel the greatness bubbling up, and it continues to build until the last note of the album.  Although the entire album is amazing, we really loved the sound of “Fake Answers,” “Message in the Stars,” “Good for Now,” “Orpheus,” “Chasing Time,” “Waves,” and “Passing Through.”

Recommendation:  Jump on this train while you still can – they are definitely going places.

Artist Name:  Dustin Tebbutt

Album Name:  Chasing Gold

Label:  Narvik Records

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Satellite; 2.  Chasing Gold; 3.  Satellite II; 4.  Love is Blind; 5.  All Your Love; 6.  Innerbloom (ft Lisa Mitchell); 7.  Atlas in Your Eyes (for Jasper Jones)

Publicist:  AntiFragile Music

Review:  Dustin Tebbutt is Australia’s version of the UK’s Ed Sheeran,   He has that same haunting vibe to his voice, with well-crafted lyrical content and perfect and simple accompaniment that highlights the vocals.  The title cut is Top 40 worthy, and his library should be a staple on American radio stations.  These songs would also work well for placement in film and television, as they have a sweeping cinematic sound, especially the second half of the title track.  Other amazing tracks include “Love is Blind,” “All Your Love,” the amazing duet with Lisa Mitchell on “Innerbloom,” and “Atlas in Your Eyes.”

Recommendation:  Make this one a priority and Get it soon.

Artist Name:  Dave Tamkin

Album Name:  Live at eTown

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Bleeding Orange; 2.  Demons are You; 3.  Fly Me; 4.  Drift; 5.  Mary; 6.  Tuesday; 7.  Thoughts up Here

Publicist:  Pressed Fresh PR

Review:  With a sound somewhere between Cat Stevens and Jim Croce, Boulder’s own Dave Tamkin delivers a sweet package of musical delights.  His first track “Bleeding Orange” is about butterflies.  The remainder of the tracks are equally amazing, and there are no weak tracks on the album.  We think this one deserves to be on repeat, and we can’t stop listening over and over again, especially “Bleeding Orange,” “Fly Me,” “Drift,” “Mary,” and “Thoughts up Here.”

Recommendation:  Don’t be a fool – Get this one too!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Band of Silver, Sci-Fi Romance, Lana Blac, Linda Marie Fischer, WHOLE

Happy hump day!  Chugging through these final 25 submissions for this award cycle, and anxious to announce the nominations.  Don’t miss the announcement on December 7.  In the meantime, here are five more artists to check out.

Artist Name:  Band of Silver

Album Name:  In Space!

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Streetlight; 2.  World Domination; 3.  I Follow You; 4.  Welcome to Hollywood; 5.  El Magnifico; 6.  Money; 7.  Space

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  We introduced you to this band a couple of weeks ago when we featured the music video for their first single, “World Domination.”  There’s just something special about siblings and music, and Band of Silver has it in droves.  They are on a mission to save rock and roll, and we think they will be successful.  Taking a page out of the 80s pop/rock soundtrack, they deliver powerful upbeat songs that not only entertain but also educate with timely lyrical content and amazing music.  Lead singer Avery has a powerful voice that meshes perfectly with the amazing sound of her siblings’ musical accompaniment.  This one is a winner.

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one – it belongs on repeat!

Artist Name:  Sci-Fi Romance

Album Name:  Dreamers & Runaways

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt-Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Dreamers & Runaways; 2.  Long Ways Left; 3.  A Beautiful Prison; 4.  The War in Me; 5.  Voices; 6.  The Fight; 7.  Gone Wrong; 8.  Wooden Jesus; 9.  Sunrise; 10.  A Hymn for the  Invisible

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  Critics have compared Sci-Fi Romance to bands like The Decemberists, but we think they stand alone in their uniqueness.  Mixing elements of folk, Americana, punk and metal, they have forged a new blend of alt-folk affectionately known as Steamfolk.  Composed of Vance Kotrla on guitar and vocals, Mr. Mike on drums and Jody Stark on cello, they give us intellectual music with a memorable musical soundtrack.  These songs need multiple listens to capture all the nuances of the lyrics and the intricacies of musical brilliance, but it will be time well spent.  The lyrics were heavily influenced by the 2016 election cycle, and are powerful reminders that we don’t have to sit idly by and watch the destruction of what’s important to us.

Recommendation:  If you like amazing music and intelligent lyrics, this is the album for you – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Lana Blac

Album Name:  Nocturnal

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Dark Rock/Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Suck you In; 2.  Pick Your Poison; 3.  Recipe for Disaster; 4.  The Game; 5.  In the Darkness; 6.  Blac Ice; 7.  Soul Stalker; 8.  Crave

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Lana Blac is a self-confessed vampire who has been inspired by the likes of In This Moment, Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie and Evanescence.  While musically she is on par with her influences, she doesn’t quite have the powerful voice of either Maria Brink or Amy Lee, although she definitely has the gothic look down.  She has created some amazingly dark music, and if she converts that into an incredible live show, then she definitely has a chance in this genre.  We think her debut album is a worthy effort, but we would like to see what comes next before jumping on this train.

Recommendation:  Worthy of checking out.

Artist Name:  Linda Marie Fischer

Album Name:  Arc of Love

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Adult Contemporary Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Blasted, Bombed, Being in Love; 2.  Racing to the Moon; 3.  Love in the Ages; 4.  Map of Ice; 5.  Blue in the Heart; 6.  Trails in my Life; 7.  Locking us Forever; 8.  Slow, Slow, Quick, Quick!; 9.  Little Words; 10.  Thinness of the Air; 11.  Holiday Wishes; 12.  Arc of Love (teaser track/video)

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Bursting on the scene in her later years, much like Bonnie Raitt, this debut album from Linda Marie Fischer blends elements of jazz, blues, R&B and pop into an easy listening, adult contemporary format that is both relaxing and comforting.  These songs reflect on the universal truth of love and all its phases, and the gentle musical accompaniment helps the words sink in.  Fischer has picked the proper format for his well-crafted songs, which should lead her to a successful career.  We think this is a great start, and look forward to what comes next.

Recommendation:  Truly worthy of your attention, especially if you like the music of Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Vanessa Carlton or Barbra Streisand.

Artist Name:  WHOLE

Album Name:  Bias

Label:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Genre:  Indie/Post-punk

Track Listing:  1.  Lust/Terror; 2.  Get Away; 3.  Tides Made by our Hands; 4.  What Scares You; 5.  Bombs Will Drop; 6.  Evenwicht; 7.  Tongue to Machine; 8.  Berghain; 9.  Amsterdam

Publicist:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Review:  German band WHOLE brings a new take to post-punk with their electrifying performance on Bias.  They combine elements of multiple genres, fastened together with Bono-esque vocals, dreamy guitar riffs, synthwave electronics and a driving beat that will keep you interested and invested in their sound.  They have an 80s retro/ new wave sound obviously inspired by the likes of Depeche Mode and The Cure, demonstrated to perfection on “Tides Made by Our Hands.”

Recommendation:  This one is binge-worthy.  Get it and enjoy.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – VNV Nation, Big Lonely, Younger Then, Phony Ppl, Nuela Charles

Happy Giving Tuesday.  If you are so inclined, there are a number of worthy charities out there that need your support.  We have posted links to several on our Facebook pages, and encourage you to help others at this time of the year.  To sweeten the deal, we have five more great artists for you to check out as we wind down submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018:

Artist Name:  VNV Nation

Album Name:  Noir

Label:  Metropolis Records

Genre:  Alternative/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  A Million; 2.  Armour; 3.  God of All; 4.  Nocturne No. 7; 5.  Collide; 6.  Wonders; 7.  Immersed; 8.  Lights go Out; 9.  Guiding; 10.  When is the Future; 11.  Only Satellites; 12.  Requiem for Wires; 13.  All our Sins

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  If ever there was an album that was custom-built for placement opportunities in film and television, this is it.  The sound is majestic, sweeping and cinematic, with a driving dance beat that would easily also make a great source for house music DJs.  This one takes off from the first notes of “A Million” and never lets up, building to a stunning conclusion.  There is obvious influence from The Cure, especially on “God of All.”  This album truly delivers a great listen from start to finish.  We also love the piano instrumental “Nocturne No. 7,” and the string instrumental “Guiding,” which are a total change of pace from the rest of the album.  We wish them well on their North American tour.

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

Artist Name:  Big Lonely

Album Name:  Bad Magic

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Just Lose; 2.  Butter on Ice; 3.  Dreamboat; 4.  A Place I’ve Never Been To; 5.  Don’t Fool me Twice; 6.  All at Once; 7.  Ticket; 8.  Up my Sleeve; 9.  Bad Magic

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Canadian band Big Lonely incorporates some Southern Rock guitar into their indie rock style to create memorable music with a retro vibe.  Their music could easily work on American Top 40 and college radio, and we bet their live show is just as dynamic.  “Dreamboat” has a Roy Orbison vibe  You’ll want to listen to this one from start to finish, cause there are no weak tracks.  Enjoy the reflective vibe.

Recommendation:  A definite add to your collection – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Younger Then

Album Name:  Bad Life

Label:  Standby Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  All in All; 2.  Lonely Holy; 3.  California King; 4.  Sarah Told Them; 5.  Cherry Glaze; 6.  Sweetest; 7.  Sundazed; 8.  Bad Life; 9.  Luna; 10.  Wishing Tree; 11.  Seasick

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:   With a sound somewhere between Kings of Leon and U2, Younger Then burst forth from their humble Buffalo to take on the world of indie rock, and they truly have the goods to make a lasting impression.  They have already gained a healthy reputation for their live shows, and now they have a CD that captures that energy and style and showcases it to the rest of the world.  There is so much good stuff on this 11-song album that everyone should be able to find a favorite.  For us, we love them all, and will give this quite a few listens from start to finish.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Phony Ppl

Album Name: mō’zā-ik.

Label:  300 Entertainment

Genre:  Soul/Funk/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Way too Far; 2.  Once you say Hello; 3.  Something About you Love; 4.  Cookie Crumble; 5.  The Colours; 6.  One Man Band; 7.  Think You’re Mine; 8.  Move her Mind; 9.  Before you get a Boyfriend; 10.  Either Way; 11.  On Everything I Love

Publicist:  No Big Deal PR

Review:  Phony Ppl is already receiving critical praise from folks like NPR Music, and it quickly becomes obvious that this band cannot be placed in a box according to genre.  Their music encompasses soul, funk, R&B, jazz, rap, and more, with incredible harmonies, and a seamless chemistry that makes it sound more like a jam session than a scripted song.  In truth, the songwriting could use some work, as stretching out the lyrics makes them become obnoxious at times and takes away from the beauty of the music.   Best tracks include “Cookie Crumble,” “Move Her Mind,” their first single/video “Before you Get a Boyfriend,” “Either Way” and “On Everything I Love.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Nuela Charles

Album Name:  Distant Danger

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alternative/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Troublemaker; 2.  Danger; 3.  Forecast; 4.  Do it Right; 5.  Sugar; 6.  March On

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  We featured her video for “Danger” in our Ten Amazing Videos of October, and the same single in one of our Monday Mashup articles in September.   Believe us when we tell you this lady has the goods to rule the soul/R&B charts and radio.  We simply love her sense of style, her songwriting and her incredible voice, which are truly personified in her song “Danger.”  All six songs are great and this artist deserves a spot on your repeat button.  We can’t wait to hear what comes next, as she has earned a permanent place in our hearts.

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

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – The Dream Eaters, Hymn for Her, Frankie Crea, Rebel Rampage, Teachers with Guns

Hope you all survived Black Friday and Small Business Saturday.  We were swamped at work, doing almost double the sales from the previous year.  Time to put that behind us and check out five more recent releases.

Artist Name:   The Dream Eaters

Album Name:   Pagan Love

Label:   Song Dynasty

Genre:   Dream Pop/Shoegaze

Track Listing:   1.  Crucifix; 2.  Mockingbird; 3.  Pagan Love; 4.  Bats in the Belfry; 5.  One of the Gods; 6.  Tequila River; 7.  Caligula; 8.  Moonlight on Gowanus; 9.  Sun Clouds

Publicist:   Self-promoted

Review:   We reviewed their first album We are a Curse back in April 2017, and their new one is definitely worth the wait.  They hit the ground running on “Crucifix,” and never let up, delivering the perfect soundtrack for fans of gothic-themed music.  Although the lyrical content is dark, the music is delivered in an upbeat style and feel that is still enjoyable.  This music would be perfect for placement in the myriad of supernatural-based television shows currently on the schedule, as well as future horror films.  The harmonies are incredible, and we love every song on this album.  We are proud to highly recommend this band for all true music lovers.

Recommendation:   You simply must Get this one!

Artist Name:   Hymn for Her

Album Name:   Pop-n-Downers

Label:   Rhythm Bomb Records

Genre:   Roots/Folk

Track Listing:   1.  Blue Balloons; 2.  Human Condition; 3.  November; 4.  Scoop; 5.  Roses; 6.  Fireflies; 7.  Shallow Graves; 8.  Yard Sale; 9.  Dingle Town; 10.  First Clown on the Moon; 11.  Auf Wiedersehen

Publicist:   Rockstar Records

Review:   Modern day hippies Lucy Tight and Wayne Waxing live in their 1961 Airstream trailer and travel all around the US and Europe, creating incredible folk songs with a roots vibe.  Their instrumentation, while simple, is perfect for their music, allowing Tight’s amazing vocals to rise above it all.  She is by far one of the best pure vocalists we have reviewed this year, and Waxing provides the perfect harmonies.  There isn’t a weak track on the album, so put it on repeat and enjoy it over and over again.

Recommendation:   Run out and Get this one.

Artist Name:   Frankie Crea

Album Name:   Countless Days

Label:   A&R Records

Genre:   Indie Rock

Track Listing:   1.  Countless Days; 2.  Dream; 3.  Little Miss Fear; 4.  So Long . . .; 5.  Mary; 6.  Until we Meet Again

Publicist:   The A&R Department

Review:  We featured his first single “Dream” in our Monday Mashup column last month, and think that the rest of the EP is just as outstanding, especially the title track.  Frankie Crea is from Western Australia, and we think he would do well on American radio.  His music is better than most of our Top 40 artists, and we love his retro classic rock sound, part Blue Oyster Cult, part Red Hot Chili Peppers.  This one is a definite keeper.  We only wish there were more than six tracks!

Recommendation:  Go Get it now!

Artist Name:  Rebel Rampage

Album Name:  Divided we Fall

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Hymn to Freedom; 2.  Resistance March; 3.  Not the Enemy; 4.  Red Star (ft Angelo Moore); 5.  Immigration Man; 6.  Women in White; 7.  I am the Power (ft Emily Armstrong); 8.  Sick of Dying; 9.  To be Free; 10.  Scorched Earth; 11.  Divided we Fall

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Rebel Rampage takes metal to an entirely new level in political activism.  Their songs are strong statements about our current landscape, especially their anti-Trump anthem, “Not the Enemy.”  They also feature Angelo Moore (Fishbone) on “Red Star” and Emily Armstrong (Dead Sara) on “I am the Power.”  This one has everything you expect from a power rock trio – hard driving drums and bass, screaming electric guitar and powerful lyrics that leave no doubt which side of the political spectrum this band stands.  While there are few radio stations that would take a chance on their songs, there are plenty of intelligent music supervisors that would quickly put these powerful tracks into television and film placements, especially “I am the Power.”  Follow their example.

Recommendation:  If you like powerful music with an equally strong message, then this is the band for you.

Artist Name:  Teachers with Guns

Album Name:  Red October

Label:  Blue Honey Records

Genre:  Indie/Experimental Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bad Art; 2.  Thru the Deep Blue; 3.  Mission Beach; 4.  Trap Pt II; 5.  All I Know; 6.  Faded Shit . . .; 7.  California Dream; 8.  Medusa

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Despite their name, this band is not composed of teachers.  They are an independent band from Los Angeles who have written an album based on the ideals of the October Revolution of 1917, in protest of future climate catastrophe and economic breakdown.  Their sound is lo-fi and experimental, with intriguing instrumentation and thought-provoking lyrics.  While you probably won’t hear them on the radio, you can hear them at various venues around the greater LA area.

Recommendation:  Worth checking out.

 

 

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

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

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

Artist Name:  Mantell

Album Name:  Thirty-Two

Label:  Marshmallow Pavement Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

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

Publicist:  The A&R Department

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

Recommendation:  Definitely Get it.

Artist Name:  Whispering Sons

Album Name:  Image

Label:  Cleopatra Records

Genre:  Post-punk

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

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

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

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

Artist Name:  Elkka

Album Name:  Full Circle

Label:  femme culture

Genre:  Dance/House

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

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

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

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

Artist Name:  Viva Death

Album Name:  Illuminate

Label:  Functional Equivalent Recordings

Genre:  Alt Rock

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

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

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

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Polly Panic

Album Name:  Losing Form

Label:  Write Hook Records

Genre:  Cello Art Rock

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

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

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

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