Tag: Belle and the Beats

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2020 (vol 7)

Sorry to have missed you last week.  Once again they changed our hours as a result of COVID-19, and I was supposed to only work three days.  Instead, I worked six days and didn’t have a day off until yesterday.  As a result, we are making this one a “double,” and including ten each of new singles and new music videos.  Grab a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and let’s enjoy these new tracks.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes courtesy of publicist Kim Grant for her client, a rising Americana star named Kyle LaLone.  This one is perfect for today, and we wholeheartedly agree with his sentiments – “I’m not Gonna Drink Over You.”

Our second single comes from the uber-talented trio Lo Rays.  This song will leave a “Stain,” but it’s the type you don’t mind having.  Enjoy this modern indie rock song with a touch of the past, courtesy of this phenomenal band, currently based in Scotland.

Next up is the sound of Kadeema, which reminds us of the goodness of OneRepublic coupled with Imagine Dragons.  Check out their latest, “Good Lies,” and we think you’ll be a believer as well.

We next turn to a Washington, DC experimental-pop band for something positive in today’s bleak world.  We’re not sure exactly when this one came out, but we really dig their vibe.  Here is “Freaks” by The North Country.

Rounding out the first five singles is this new hip hop tune that deals with communication in a time of social distancing.  Check out Canadian buzz maker Ollie‘s latest, “Perfect Landing.”

Our second set of five kicks off with the debut single from UK alternative band In Earnest.  It’s entitled “Put me Under” and it perfectly describes the spell they weave with their beautiful sound.

Next up is the latest from Blue Élan Records artist Chelsea Williams.  Hard to believe this is the third single from her upcoming album, Beautiful & Strange.  It may be called “Wasted,” but you’re definitely not wasting your time enjoying this track.

Single number eight is from War Strings, who offer us “Tragedy (Lovesong).”  This one has a great groove and deserves serious airplay on Top 40 radio.  Check it out and let us know what you think.

Next up is another amazing London artist, this time a young lady named Francesca Louise.  Although she may be “Out of Sight (Out of Mind,” her music will stay with you long after the song ends.

Our final single this week is another debut, this time from Swedish retro rock band Kurbitz.  We love the strong vocals, the thoughtful lyrics and the overall sound of “Mona Lisa.”  We think we’ll be hearing a lot more from this band.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Last month we shared their lyric video for “Enough.”  Today we are proud to debut the official music video, which proves once again that The Spider Accomplice is the premiere indie modern rock band in the world.  Check out this amazing video and rock out to the uplifting vocals of the one and only VK Lynne, accompanied by the fiery chords of guitarist Arno Nurmisto.

We segue to another incredible rock band called The Recks.  Check out their interesting video for “The Milk’s Gone Bad.”

We really love this next music video, especially in these days of being apart.  Jont gives us an anthem for the future with his song, “I Think it Could be Possible.”  Let’s hope for the best.

Our fourth video comes from indie folk band Baneful Town.  This beautiful animated video brings life to their song “Flare Gun Eyes.”  We really love the harmonies.

Video number five is a poignant love song to the senior class of 2020.  Due to COVID-19, this year’s seniors are missing out on so much of the high school experience.  Teen sensation Maleena reminds us of what they’re thinking – “Don’t Forget About Me.”

Our next video is from our favorite Danish indie band, Belle and the Beats.  This one features an intriguing French rap from Reazun.  Check out “Habibi.”

LA singer/songwriter and actor Quinn L’Esperance also gives us a powerful lyric video for her song, “Human Connection.”  Listen carefully to the words of this one.  This one belongs on the radio.

Continuing in that same vein, Corinne Cook‘s latest, “Yes, I Can,” is a power anthem that states all things are possible if we simply believe.  Let this one resonate with your heart.

Next up is the rocking bluesy sound of Nicole Boggs and the Reel.  Their powerful video brings to life the words of “Money” and makes you stop and take account of your motivations.

We close out this week with an equally powerful and beautiful video from Scotland’s Baby Taylah that is breathtaking in its cinematography.  We definitely want to call those locations “Home.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 11

It’s finally starting to show signs of the coming spring up here in Montana, and it’s about time!  Hopefully this week will be better than last week, and we hope to get yours off to a great start with some outstanding new singles and music videos.  Check them out!

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from Belle and the Beats, winners of the Best Single (International) category in the LA Music Critic Awards for the first half of 2018.  They are back with another great song, and we think you’ll love it – here’s “Qetesh.”

https://open.spotify.com/album/07byAt08ZyYa6ABu9abMsn

Our second single is from an amazing band out of Washington State that we had the privilege of recently reviewing.  If you close your eyes, they almost sound like Montgomery Gentry, and trust us, we think they will be just as successful.  Here’s “Red Rock” from The Lowdown Drifters.

https://open.spotify.com/album/4i9Hdy71eHRfsbjGXMrc6i

Our beloved Jack Bauer is back, but this time, he has a new album and single, and his strong vocals will surprise you.  Keifer Sutherland is amazing, and we can’t get enough of his new single, “Something to Love.”  We want to hear what you think of this song.

https://open.spotify.com/album/4SCQVJSvSPYZTbjvgnMc7k

Our fourth single is from another LA Music Critic Award nominee, Gigi Rich, and it shows an incredible amount of creative growth since we last heard from her.  Her vocals are powerful and the song is so upbeat and positive.  Check out “Silver Lining.”

Our final single this week is from an artist who debuted on The WiMN (Women in Music Network).  In light of our upcoming LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase on June 18, which will highlight Women in Entertainment, we couldn’t think of a better way to spotlight them both than with the latest effort from Rachel Lynn, “Didn’t I,” which we think is a mega hit.  We love the retro Motown feel, as well as the vocals and overall vibe of the song.  We hope you feel the same.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video this week comes from the dreamy sound of Hush Pup.  This one is perfect for those times when you want to forget the world.  Check out “Oasis.”

If you love the sights and sounds of New York City, you will love our next video, with views of such iconic places as Coney Island.  Here’s UK-based Scott Lavene with the visualization to his song, “Methylated Blue.”

Our third music video this week is from a band we introduced to you last December.  We really love the sound of this duo, and this is their very first music video for their song, “Down to my River.”  We proudly present to you the band Skand.

Next up is a rocking duo from London based duo She Made Me Do It.  This one has everything a great rock song needs, and we think it’s definitely worthy of your attention.  Check out “Bones.”

We slow things down and close out the week with the amazing harmonies of America’s Got Talent stars We Three and their simply beautiful song, “Lifeline.”  Have a great week.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Great Singles Women in Entertainment

Ten great singles released in August 2018

We just returned from the Griz-Drake game where our hometown Griz whooped up on the visiting team by a score of 48-16.   It was a much closer game in the first half, but the second half was all Griz.  To celebrate, here are 10 great singles which were released in August that didn’t make it into our Monday Mashup series.  Enjoy these songs.

Our first single is from Montreal’s Edwin Raphael and featuring Claire Ridgely.  It is a beautiful song called “Tangerine Skies,” and we think you’ll love it.

https://soundcloud.com/antifragile_music/tangerine-skies-feat-claire-ridgely-edwin-raphael/

Next is a remix by South Florida DJ LaLa of a wonderful song from one of our favorite indie bands The Cravens.  Here is the dance track “Fool/Road to Reason.”  We think it will definitely get you up and dancing.

We are really digging on our third single, “Second Chance” by the amazing KRSTN.  Her voice is truly incredible, and the song has Top 40 hit written all over it.  Let us know what you think.

Our fourth single “Kerosene” by SARRA is another amazing dance track that makes it impossible to sit still when you hear it.  Get up and dance and enjoy this track.

Single number five is from the upcoming new album by Kiyomi Hawley, and the ladies continue to bring it in August with the first single, “Miss You Love You.”  We can’t wait to review this album when it is released.

Our second five starts off with the indie rock/ska sound of Hey Harriet on their single, “Too Fast Too Soon.”  This one has a definite resemblance to No Doubt, and we love them.

Single number seven is “Down and Lost” from another band we truly love, Belle and the Beats.  This one is smooth, sexy and just plain good R&B/soul.  We think you’ll love it.

Our next single also comes from Amsterdam, and are labelmates of Belle and the Beats.  Check out “Pick me Up” from Sweetwood, and get on the dance floor.

Our ninth single is “Touch the Sky” from The Offshore.  We think  you will love their retro sound.

Our final single this month is from Becoming Bristol, who we have featured several times in the past.  We really love their latest, “Brighter Days,” and think it deserves your attention.  It brings attention to the epidemic of suicide that is plaguing us with a refreshing take on how you can help save a life.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Michael Malarkey, Cheo and Ulises Hadjis, Belle and the Beats, Dexist, Danie Ocean Band

Happy Friday.  Worked the Bon Iver concert last night in the rain, and very thankful to finally be dry and warm.  We’ve got five more reviews for your consideration today, and we’re almost to the finish line.  We hope to be there by Monday.  Thanks for bearing with us.  We think this batch of submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards are some of the strongest yet, and think you’ll be happy with our nominations, which will be announced next Friday.

Artist Name:  Michael Malarkey

Album Name:  Captain Solitaire

Label:  Hudson Records

Genre:  Singer-songwriter/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Captain Solitaire; 2.  Friends; 3.  Bloody Nose

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  You probably know Michael Malarkey from his four seasons as Enzo on The Vampire Diaries, but what you may not know is he’s an amazing singer-songwriter as well.  His three-song EP has just been released, and it has everything needed to turn Malarkey into a well-known musician as well, joining the ranks of actors like Ryan Sims, Jeff Bridges, and Jared Leto who have previously proven their musical abilities.  Malarkey has the same “speaking-singing” style as Shawn Mullins, and we think he may be just as successful as a musician as we is as an actor.  You can’t go wrong with this EP, as all three songs are great.  Our favorite is the title track.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, to your nearest digital outlet and Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Cheo & Ulises Hadjis

Album Name:  Dónde

Label:  Cosmica

Genre:  Latin

Track Listing:  1.  Piensa En Mí; 2.  ¿Dónde?; 3.  Como Antes; 4.  Aquí Vinimos; 5.  Lo Que Es Cierto; 6.  De No Haberte Conocido; 7.  No Suena Igual; 8.  Los Continentes

Publicist:  Cosmica Artists

Review:  Cheo, formerly of Los Amigos Invisibles, and Latin Grammy nominee Ulises Hadjis have joined forces on their first collaboration, creating a work of art that transcends the language barrier.  Much like the Gipsy Kings have become a world-wide phenomenon despite the multiple languages they speak (none of which are English), the Latin rhythms of Cheo and Hadjis combine to create music that doesn’t need to be understood to be enjoyed.  The title track has such a great rhythm and sound, with perfect flamenco flair and amazing horns, that it lifts the music into another dimension that isn’t bound by language.  We think this is one of the best Latin albums we have ever reviewed, and look forward to hearing more from this dynamic duo.  This music belongs in the library of every music supervisor as well, as it would make excellent placements in television and film.

Recommendation:  Regardless of whether you speak Spanish or not, you will enjoy this album.  It belongs in your music library and we strongly encourage you to Get it.

Artist Name:  Belle and the Beats

Album Name:  Lose Your Feathers

Label:  BERT Music

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Deeper; 2.  Down and Lost; 3.  You and I; 4.  Soldier of the Night

Publicist:  TCBYML

Review:  Belle and the Beats are no strangers to readers of this blog, as they have been featured twice in our Monday Mashup, as well as making it onto the list of Amazing Videos from April.  This Amsterdam-based band is head and shoulders one of the best international acts we have heard this year.  Their provocative video for “Deeper” conveys the depth of the song, and it is easily one of our favorites, although quite frankly, all four of these songs are amazing.  We can’t wait to hear a full length album from this band, which is quickly becoming one of our favorite imports.

Recommendation:  Don’t wait – this group will blow you away.  You NEED to Get this EP ASAP!

Artist Name:  Dexist

Album Name:  Los No Lugares

Label:  Musarañas Records

Genre:  Latin

Track Listing:  1.  AzulNegroGris; 2.  Libre; 3.  Escudos y Lanzas; 4.  Tu Juego Perfecto; 5.  Lunar; 6.  1984; 7.  100 Días; 8.  Nuevas Sombras; 9.  Renacimiento; 10.  No Tenim Por (remastered)

Publicist:  Musarañas Records

Review:  Dexist hails from Barcelona, Spain, and brings us post-punk and electro-pop tunes in Spanish.  Although we were skeptical at first, they really do pull it off, showing us that the punk vibe has infiltrated music in multiple countries, not just the US and UK.  The angst, heartbreak and despair come through despite the language barrier, and the addition of an electronic vibe adds to the punk feel of the music.

Recommendation:  If you love punk music, you will probably dig this one.

Artist Name:  Danie Ocean Band

Album Name:  Love Won’t Let Me Fail

Label:  Winding Way Records

Genre:  R&B/Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Sunshine; 2.  Shut up and Satisfy; 3.  Firebreathing Woman; 4.  Don’t Complain; 5.  Possibility; 6.  You Oughta Know; 7.  Not Good Enough; 8.  Reciprocity; 9.  Love Won’t let me Fail; 10.  The Difference

Publicist:  Winding Way Records

Review:  For those of you who love instant gratification, you will discover a ton of it in the debut release from the Danie Ocean Band.  With a breezy R&B-flavored jazz sound, this one is guaranteed to please.  Ocean’s vocals are impeccable and her music is upbeat and full of life.  The songs are well-crafted and help the listener’s spirits to soar to new heights, especially that incredible trumpet provided by Bill Giffear.  She even throws in a bit of rock on “Firebreathing Woman,” and does an excellent cover of the Alanis Morissette classic “You Oughta Know.”  Her overall vibe is Bonnie Raitt meets Sophie B. Hawkins, with a touch of Dinah Krall thrown in for good measure.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – definitely Get this one!

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten amazing videos released in April 2018

Every Monday we bring you news from the indie arts world, as well as new singles and music videos.  Unfortunately, we receive so many requests that we are unable to accommodate everyone.  We decided to create a monthly listing of singles and music videos we thought were worthy but didn’t have space for in our Monday Mashup.  Here is our list of music videos for the month of April.

Our first video comes from Jake Austin Walker for his amazing Top 40-bound single “Rolling Stones.”  This one should get your weekend off to a great start.

Next up is Polychrome, with their video for “Final Kiss.”  We shared their latest single last month, and this one will truly get you dancing.

Our third video is from acclaimed LA/NY producer Sailor Beast. Even if we don’t particularly like the style of “My Favorite Ex,” we love the cinematography, which will amaze and delight.  Let us know what you think.

Next up is an animated video by Nir Yaniv for his debut song, “Memories of a Third Planet.”  This one is unique and the song will get your toes a tapping and your body dancing across the floor.

Our fifth April video comes from Jackie Venson.  We featured her single “Don’t Lie to Me” last month and this month we’re sharing the video for that song.

Our next video is for you rockers.  Here is Bashful Hips with “Host of a Ghost.”  This one is another animated one with a rocking beat.

Our seventh video is from Dom Fricot and it is not your typical music video.  It starts with beautiful cinematography from Nepal and a story featuring actors before launching into the amazing song “Echoes,” the style of which is very familiar to fans of Phil Collins.  Enjoy this treat.

Next up is “Big Mouth,” courtesy of Judas, which is a rocking tune with throbbing beats, and a compelling story about the hazards of drinking.  Please let us know how it affects you.

Video number nine comes from indie pop rocker Chay Snowdon for his song “Zenopia.”  Again the cinematography is amazing and the tune will get your heart rate up and climbing.  Brit rock is definitely still here.

Our final video from April gives us a band that is quickly becoming one of our favorites.  We have featured the music of Belle and the Beats on at least two previous occasions, and think you will love their latest video for “Deeper.”  This soulful ballad is the perfect closing to this edition of Ten Amazing Videos.  See you soon.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 13

Woke up to snow and it’s no longer April Fool’s, so we guess it’s real.  They’re also forecasting more snow on Wednesday – enough already.  Let’s see what’s happening in the indie world, and enjoy five new singles and videos.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest single from BOYTOY, a Brooklyn-based trio, from their forthcoming album, Night Leaf, scheduled for release later this month.  The single is called “Static Age,” and we think it is the perfect one to lead off this month of April.

Next up is Catey Shaw, and we love the sound of her sweet voice.  Here is “New Day,” and we think this sound is a perfect ballad and radio hit.  Let us know what you think.

Our third single this week is “Naked,” and that thought was definitely on our mind after listening to this hot new track from Zaena Morisho.  We could definitely see this one on the Fox series Empire.

Next up is the soaring voice of Esmé, who takes her new single “I Wonder” to amazing heights.  Please let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/soundsofesme/i-wonder

Our final single this week is from an artist that grew up in the shadows of Saudi Arabia, but is finally free to share her creative vision.  Let’s give it up for tamtamsound with her single, “Blue.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today comes from the John Flanagan Trio, with their single, “Something to Complain About.”  We love the bluegrass sound, and these guys and gals do it very well, especially since they’re from down under, instead of the deep south.

We previously shared the single, “Soldier of the Night” with you last month, and now we have the video to share as well.  We really love Belle and the Beats, and think you will too.

Here’s another upbeat video from Bossie for her single “Strawberry Moon.”  We can’t wait for her album to be released later this month.

Our fourth video for you today is from the UK duo Percival Elliott and is a rocking tribute called “Betty.”  Get up and feel the beat.

Last but not least this week is another look at the amazing Ashley Heath and her Heathens, with the video for “Same Ol’ Blue.”  Have a wonderful week.

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 9

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

UM CIRCUS CLUB TO HOST FIRST EVER RENAISSANCE FAIRE

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

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

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

THE AUDIENCE AWARDS ANNOUNCE BIG SKY WINNERS

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

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

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

NEW SINGLES

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

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

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

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

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

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

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

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

Belle