Tag: Blue Elan Records

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten (plus five) amazing videos released in June 2018

Now that we’ve published our Ten Great Singles for June, it’s time to likewise do our Ten Amazing Videos.  We’ve included a bonus five videos since we were unable to feature any of them this month due to our other commitments.  Enjoy these videos.

Our first video is the latest from Stone Stanley.  We love the down-home flavor of “Bitter End” and think you will too.  They recently released their latest album, The Mudstomp Tapes, and we will be reviewing it shortly.  In the meantime, check out the video.

Next up is the latest from DIY queen Shannon Hurley for her single, “I Found You.”  The video is a shot for shot reshoot of Belinda Carlisle’s amazing video for her song “Mad About You.”  Carlisle loved this video, and we think you will too.

Our third video is from one of LA’s finest indie artists, Cindy Alexander.  She recorded “My Favorite Artist” with the assistance of Blue Élan Records labelmate Rusty Young, and debuted it at the LA Music Critic Awards Winners Showcase on June 19.  Here is her vision of the song.

Our next video is from the amazing international band Straw for their song, “On My Mind.”  It is visually stunning, and this beautiful ballad will stay on your mind long after the final note.

Our fifth video is “Certainties,” the latest from Aaron Ball.  He packs his Southern Country Rock sound into this magnificent video, which is sure to get your toes a tapping.  Enjoy.

Music video number six comes from Adam Masterson, who sounds a lot like Bruce Springsteen.  The song is “Runaway” from his recently released new album Delayed Fuse.

Next up is the animated video for “Jettisoned” by KOYO.  This one is different, and we like it.

Our eighth video is from BONES uk for their rocking song, “Creature.”  This rocking song will fire you up and get you ready for the weekend.

Next up is country darling Harper Grae with her latest, “Bloodline.”  We love the rocking country beat that reminds us of Lady Antebellum.  This one is a keeper.

Our tenth video is a rocking one from Lost Worlds for their song “What You Say.”  We love the indie rock sound of this band, and the video is a lot of fun as well.

Our first bonus video is “Heaven’s Deep Blue Sky” from Swedish retro rocker Leo Spauls and features Mike Garson.  It might be a bit disturbing visually, but the song is amazing.  Let us know what you think.

Bonus track number two will take you back to the 70’s, both in its visual representations but also in its sound.  Kick off your shoes, sit back and relax to “Secret Admirer” from Barbudo.

Our third bonus track will take you forward in time about a decade and is very reminiscent of Whitney Houston and Deniece Williams.  Give it up for Sheila and the Kit on their song “Time Again.”

Bonus track number four is from Australian Nicky Rogalsky, and we are developing an “Obsession” for her amazing look and sound.  This one belongs on American radio.  Enjoy the incredible vocals.

Our final video this month is a lyric video courtesy of Kalyna Rakel for her song, “Who Knew.”  It is fun and the horns and vocals will make you come back time and time again to this delightful song.  See you next month.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Reviews See it or Skip it Theatre Women in Entertainment

HFF18 day 10 – see it or skip it

We took Tuesday off from the Fringe for the LA Music Critic Awards Winners Showcase at the Mint.  It was a glorious event, featuring the music of Pam Taylor, Alexis Keegan, Pi Jacobs, Great Willow, The Khourys, Rusty Young, Cindy Alexander, Ted Russell Kamp, Shiragirl and ROCKET.  The music was hot and we had a blast, and managed to raise $500 for the work of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Both Shiragirl (“Summers Coming”) and Alexander (“My Favorite Artist”) debuted brand new singles that will be released on Friday.  You should have seen Young’s face when we presented him with the 2018 Icon Award.  It was priceless.  We strongly advise you to check out the sounds of these award winning artists, and don’t forget to vote for your Fan Favorite with our current nominations for the first half of 2018.  Voting ends on Wednesday, June 27.

Very  special thanks to Patrick O’Heffernan of Friday Music Live, Jen Lyneis of Ue3 Promotions and Kirk Pasich of Blue Élan Records for your sponsorship of our event and your assistance in putting on this show.  We could not have done it without you.

On Wednesday we returned to the Fringe for a couple of shows, the first of which was at Studio/Stage.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Yellow Wallpaper

VENUE:  Studio/Stage

REVIEW:  This was a difficult play to review.  On the one hand, the ending left us with more questions unanswered than we had before it began.  On the other hand, the acting of Tatum Langton as Jane was truly wonderful, given the script she was given.  This adaptation shifted the focus from Jane and her descent into madness as described in the original short story, and instead focused on her family.  This shift did not play out well, leaving the audience literally “in the dark” about exactly what was happening.  It did cast a light on the horrible way that people suffering from mental illness have been treated in this country.  Even though it was set in the 1950’s, that same attitude is still prevalent today.  If nothing else, the play reminds us that we need to take better care of those suffering from mental illness, and do what we can to find a true cure for their ailment.

RECOMMENDATION:  We cannot truly endorse this play.  Although it has its moments, overall we think you should just skip it, as there are so many other plays to consider at this year’s Fringe.  Read the short story instead.

After viewing this play, we decided to head down and check out the Fringe Pride event at that LGBT Centre.  The space was lovely and there might have been more of the community in attendance if the Broadwater Plunge hadn’t decided to have their Grand Opening at the same time.  Parking was impossible, though, and we managed to get a ticket from the most obnoxious female cop.  Oh well, welcome to Los Angeles!  Back to the Fringe.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Mulatto Math:  Summing up the Race Equation in America

VENUE:  The Lounge Theater

REVIEW:  One of the joys (although it can be difficult at times) of sponsoring an award at Fringe is screening the shows that have applied.  We have had mostly great shows to screen so far (making our selection difficult), and Mulatto Math definitely falls in that category.  From the amazing original music of writer/performer/star Monique DeBose to the equally amazing accompaniment of Dwayne Augustine on double bass, this show was a thing of beauty.  DeBose is mixed race and grew up in California, although her black father was from the segregated South.  As someone who was born in North Carolina and raised in Virginia, both pre and post segregation, I could easily relate to her story of being trapped between two worlds, never fully integrated into either, but drawn to her father’s side.  Her conclusions, based on her own math formulas, were interesting and totally understandable, reminding us that we still have a long way to go for all races to feel truly free.  Hopefully this play will serve as a catalyst to better days ahead.

RECOMMENDATION:  Definitely go see this show.  There are two performances remaining, June 21 at 6 p.m. and June 23 at 10 p.m.  Grab your tickets here – don’t miss it!

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Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2018: vol. 22

It’s another week, and it will be a busy one.  We will be leaving on Sunday to head down to Los Angeles for the Hollywood Fringe Festival.  We have 51 shows on our schedule to review, including about 15 that have submitted for consideration of our Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence.  We will also be  having our second annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase on June 19 at The Mint, where we will have some amazing winners perform in support of the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Tickets are available online for $10, and will be available at the door for $13.  We hope to see you there.

UNSIGNED ONLY COMPETITION ENDS JUNE 6

The final week of the Unsigned Only “Grand Slam” special promotion has kicked off, running until midnight on June 6 (CST).  All entries will also be included into the 2018 Unsigned Only Music Competition.  This is your very last time to enter, so if you want to enter more songs (or enter for the first time this year), you still have a chance to participate in this year’s competition, but you need to hurry.

Winners for the previous three weeks of the promotion, as well as the current week, will be announced along with all of the other category winners in September 2018.   Just for entering, all entrants will receive 100 free spins to Radio Airplay (regardless of whether you are an existing Radio Airplay member or a new member).  Additionally, every entrant will also be entered into the overall 2018 Unsigned Only competition and have the chance for their music to be heard by a high-profile panel of judges, as well as be eligible to share in over $150,000 in cash and prizes.

HOME RUN | May 30 – June 6 | GET PAID FOR THE WIN – Click Here For Info
Click Here To Enter Your Songs
NEW SINGLES
First up today is a long-time favorite of this blog, and one of the amazing artists signed to Blue Élan Records.  Recent winner of the LA Music Critic Award for Rising Star, here is “Honey, Honey” from the unforgettable Chelsea Williams.

Next up is “Sort Myself Out” from Becoming Bristol, fka The Exchange.  We like the sound of this band and look forward to hearing much more from them.

Single number three today is from a voice familiar to lovers of the TV shows Suits, Lucifer, Bones, Nashville and One Tree Hill.  Gareth Dunlop has a new single that we think you’ll love.  Here is “Blind to the Pain” from his forthcoming EP Many Moons Ago.

https://soundcloud.com/gareth-dunlop-official/blind-to-the-pain

Our fourth single today is from The Cravens, who we have previously reviewed and featured on this blog.  They have a “Message” for you, and we think you’ll be glad to get it.

Our final single today is “Don’t Blink” from John Santiago, frontman for Johnny & the Bootlegs, which we recently reviewed in Get it or Forget it.  Let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Lauren Balthrop‘s upcoming September album, This Time Around.  Here is the lyric video for “Down.”

Next is the very retro feel of Peter Cat with his new single “Hand Through Hair.”  Groovy, Baby.

Our third video this week is from one of the newest artists on Blue Élan Records, Red Wanting Blue.  Here is the video for their new single, “High and Dry.”

And now, for something completely different, here is a sneak preview of the new video from Runaway Symphony which will be released on June 12.  Check out this live performance of “The Fall of Man.”

Our final video this week is “All the Way” from Cherry Pools.  We think it’s the perfect segue to summer and a wonderful week.  See you soon.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Rita Coolidge, Victoria Ginty, Hawk, Monkey, The Drew Thomson Foundation

It’s R.E.D. Friday – for those not in the know, that stands for Remember Everyone Deployed and wear a red shirt to support our military.  It’s also our final Get it or Forget it of the week, and we’ve got some great reviews for you today, including the return of yet another iconic artist to Blue Élan Records.  Here we go.

Artist Name:  Rita Coolidge

Album Name:  Safe in the Arms of Time

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Satisfied; 2.  Doing Fine Without You; 3.  Walking on Water (ft. Keb’ Mo’); 4.  Spirit World; 5.  The Things we Carry; 6.  Naked all Night; 7.  Van Gogh; 8.  Rainbow; 9.  Over You; 10.  We are Blood; 11.  You can Fall in Love; 12.  Please Grow old with Me

Publicist:  Jensen Communications

Review:  There is no doubt that Rita Coolidge is a pop icon.  As they previously did with Janey Street, Rusty Young, Jack Tempchin, Gerry Beckley and Fanny, Blue Élan Records has brought Coolidge back into the spotlight, and delivered one of the best albums of Coolidge’s storied career.  Her voice is still as strong as it was during her heyday, and the songs still bring out emotions you thought were locked away tightly.  Coolidge knows how to push your buttons (in a good way), and we are so glad to have her back.  Starting with “Satisfied,” Coolidge takes the listener on an emotional journey through life.  She has chosen to use a simplified accompaniment of guitar, bass, drums and keys because it is the words and the vocals that are the strongest part of her songs.  Ross Hogarth has done it again with his incredible production, engineering and mixing, resulting in an album that truly highlights the artist and the songs.  Although the entire album is classic, we really love “Walking on Water” (which features Grammy winner Keb’ Mo’),  the funky guitar goodness of “Spirit World,” “Naked all Night,” and “Rainbow,”  the sweet sound of “The Things we Carry,” the loving homage “Van Gogh,” and the heartfelt sentiment of “You can Fall in Love” and “Please Grow Old With Me.”

Recommendation:  Drop everything and Get this one TODAY!

Artist Name:  Victoria Ginty

Album Name:  Unfinished Business

Label:  Blue Door Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Unfinished Business; 2.  Take me Down; 3.  Hard to Move On; 4.  You Don’t Love me no More; 5.  Every Night and Every Day; 6.  Give it Up; 7.  Water; 8.  Sign Your Name; 9.  Lying (in Each Other’s Arms); 10.  Do me Right; 11.  The Blues Found Me

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  We never tire of hearing the blues, and the latest from Victoria Ginty affirms that.  The album debuted at #17 on the Roots Music Report Top 50 Contemporary Blues chart, and we have no doubt that it will rise to the top.  The album starts off strong with the title track, takes the listener on an emotional roller coaster on “Take me Down” and “Hard to Move On,”  rocks our blues away on the upbeat “You Don’t Love me no More” and “Give it Up,” shows us something totally different on her cover of Terrance Trent D’Arby’s “Sign Your Name,” and shows us her soul on “Lying (in Each Other’s Arms).”

Recommendation:  If you love the blues with a touch of R&B and soul, then this album is for you.  We highly recommend you Get it now and be the envy of all your friends.

Artist Name:  Hawk

Album Name:  Bomb Pop

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Power Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Allison’s Gone; 2.  Listen Like Thieves; 3.  I Lied; 4.  Mrs. Anderson; 5.  Not Just Lonely; 6.  Around the Sun; 7.  Take my Time; 8.  Lay me Down Easy; 9.  In my Dream; 10.  Dry Your Eyes

Publicist:  Perpetual Media Relations

Review:  Supergroup Hawk has returned with a new retro sound.  Made up of lead vocalist David Hawkins, Gary Louris (Jayhawks), Ken Stringfellow (The Posies, R.E.M), and Pete Thomas (Elvis Costello), the band combines elements of 60’s and 70’s classic rock with a power pop sound to create music that has been described as containing “the swagger of the Stones and the melodies of Tom Petty.”  We find that description on point, especially on “Allison’s Gone,” “Listen Like Thieves,””Not Just Lonely,”  “Around the Sun,” “Take my Time,”  “Lay me Down Easy,” and “In my Dream.”  This is one of our favorite retro albums this year.

Recommendation:  Get it.

Artist Name:  Monkey

Album Name:  Intermittent Waves

Label:  Squidhat Records

Genre:  Ska

Track Listing:  1.  Intermittent Waves; 2.  Hitchin a Ride; 3.  Sugartown; 4.  Still Gonna be my Girl; 5.  Glass Bottom Boat; 6.  Rude Vibrations; 7.  Bossa; 8.  Lovers War; 9.  Bowling with Mr. G; 10.  Bassinet

Publicist:  Squidhat Records

Review:  Ska is alive and well, thanks to the return of Monkey to the scene.  They are embarking on a west coast tour with another one of our favorites, Frank & Deans, and we have no doubt that the tour will be a huge success.  We love the energy of the opening instrumental title track, “Hitchin a Ride,” “Rude Vibrations,” and “Bowling with Mr. G,” the reggae feel of “Glass Bottom Boat,” “Lovers War,”  and “Bassinet,” and the swing of “Bossa.”

Recommendation:  This one will make an excellent addition to your musical library.  We highly recommend you Get it.

Artist Name:  The Drew Thomson Foundation

Album Name:  Stay

Label:  Dine Alone Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Married to the Night; 2.  Pace Yourself; 3.  Rifle; 4.  Stay

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Drew Thomson is the founder of Single Mothers, a critically acclaimed and June Award nominated punk band from Toronto.  On his solo EP, he brings a more traditional indie rock sound.  Although only four songs, it is a worthy effort, especially “Rifle” (which is an introspective look at life) and the title track, which is the lead single.  We suggest radio station managers should look at “Stay,” especially indie rock and college stations.  We look forward to seeing what else Thomson has in store for us.

Recommendation:  This one is definitely worthy of your attention.  Check it out.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 17

We made it to the final Monday in April.  That means May 1 is coming up, when tickets for both the 2018 Hollywood Fringe Festival and the 2018 LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase go on sale.  June is gonna be awesome, and we can’t wait to see LA again.  We’ll be in town from June 11-25, so let us know what Fringe shows and concerts we should check out while we’re there.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL

This year marks the 9th annual Festival, and other than 2015, we have attended every year.  We can hardly wait for the tickets to go on sale so we can start planning our trip.  We will again be sponsoring the Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence, which goes to a play which best incorporates music into its story.  The award will be presented on June 24 at the Awards show.  We look forward to checking out your show for this award.  As always, we will be publishing reviews every day, so make sure you invite us to your Fringe show.

JOE PURDY HEADS OUT ON TOUR

Amazing indie artist Joe Purdy heads out on the road as the opening act for Judy Collins and Stephen Stills.  Purdy and Amber Rubarth recently gained attention for their movie American Folk.  You can see them both if you catch the Nashville show.  You can buy your tickets here.

May 03 – Hult Center for the Performing Arts – Eugene, OR
May 04 – Snoqualmie Casino Showroom – Snoqualmie, WA
May 11 – *Nashville Musicians Corner – Nashville, TN (American Folk w/ Amber Rubarth)
May 16 – The Rose – Pasadena, CA
May 17 – The Canyon –  Santa Clarita, CA 
June 01 – Luther Burbank Center – Santa Rosa, CA
June 02 – Mountain Winery – Saratoga, CA 
June 04 – Humphries By The Bay – San Diego, CA 
June 08 – *City Winery – Chicago, IL (Solo Show)
June 09 – Meadow Brook Amphitheatre – Rochester Hills, MI

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE

Tickets go on sale tomorrow for the 2nd annual showcase, which will be held at The Mint in Los Angeles on June 19.  Artists scheduled to appear this year include Lexie Rose, Alexis Keagan, Pi Jacobs, Great Willow, The Khourys, Poco’s Rusty Young, Cindy Alexander, Calico the Band’s Ted Russell Kamp, and Shiragirl from the Vans Warped Tour.  Local rockers ROCKET will headline the event.  Tickets are just $10 in advance (with a 60 cent surcharge).  A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Come support indie music.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Blue Élan Records artist Jesse Dayton, whose album will be coming out in June.  Here’s his latest single, “May Have to Do It (Don’t Have to Like It).”  Let us know what you think.

Our second single comes from Strange Boy, a London-based duo with sweeping harmonies and lush techno accompaniment.  Check out their latest offering, “Love Remains.”

Next up is Polychrome, who channel the vibe of The Cocteau Twins to bring us “Dreaming About You.”  If you like electronic, pop and/or dance music, you will love this one.

Our next single, “Thrift Shop,” comes from Johnny and the Bootlegs, who combine blues, punk and rock n’ roll to create a high energy sound.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from Summer Heart, and should get  you ready for summer with the amazing “I Got This Thing for You.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today comes from Secret Colours for their single “Dream Dream.”  We find it interesting that the album was dropped almost a year ago, and we are just now finding out about them.  We can’t wait for more!

Next up is the latest from LA indie icon Kari Kimmel, with another smash hit video.  This one is for her single “High,” and we can’t wait to find out what music supervisor was smart enough to choose this one.  Her new album drops May 25.

Our third video today is from one of our indie bands, FlecHaus.  Here is the lyric video for “Finding,” which was just released TODAY!

We really love this next video from Lora Kelley for her single, “Both Hands.”  We would love to hear what you think.

Last but not least this week is the latest from amazing duo This Way North.  It is a live performance of their single, “Nothing to Say,” and we truly dig their vibe.  Have a great week and we’ll be back soon with more Get it or Forget it.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Hollywood Fringe Festival Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 10

Well, here we go with another week.  Did you miss that hour of sleep you lost on Saturday?  Hopefully, our indie news, as well as the latest singles and videos will make up for it.  Have a wonderful week.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL RETURNS WITH OFFICE HOURS

Join Hollywood Fringe staff and participants for weekly casual meet-ups at different bars around Hollywood.  If you’re wondering what the fuss is all about, check out this FringeTV video.

Office Hours takes place on Wednesdays, starting March 28.  The times and locations are listed below, and you can check out this blog post and the #drinkingaboutfringe hashtag on Twitter and Instagram (as well as #hff18, the official festival hashtag) for drink specials and updates.

ROB DRABKIN REACHES FINALS IN 2017 ISC CONTEST

Congratulations to Colorado native Rob Drabkin, who has reached the finals in the 2017 International Songwriting Competition for the music video of his song, “Someday.”  Let us know what you think about the tune.

NEW SINGLES

Manda Mosher, from Americana supergroup Calico the Band, has released a solo single that is featured in the new Dakota Fanning movie, Please Stand By.  Please check out “Cold Cold Love” and give us your feedback.

Los Angeles artist Dree Mon is back with the follow-up to her smash hit “Rebel Soul.  Check out “No Chill.”  It should get your week off to a rousing start.

Two-time Grammy winning and  iconic artist Rita Coolidge has released her first single from her forthcoming Safe in the Arms of Time album on Blue Élan Records.  She is joined by the also iconic and multi-Grammy winner Keb’ Mo’ on “Walking on Water.”

Our final new single today is from Words in Flight.  It is a delightful but eclectic tune called “The Ravenous Affair.”  Don’t forget to check back on Wednesday for our “Top 10 New Singles” feature.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video comes from Becky Buller, an amazing bluegrass/Americana artist who we reviewed last week.  Check out the video for “Speaking to that Mountain.”

Our next video is also from an artist we reviewed last week.  Here is LadyChild with the rocking song “Out of Breath.”

Last but not least, here’s a fun video from Harts for his single, “Ain’t Nothing on Me.”  We think it will get your blood flowing and your feet moving to start the week.  See you again soon!

 

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

Get it or forget it – Ghost Town Blues Band, Milo Gore, Tennessee Jed, Fanny Walked the Earth, Barrence Whitfield and the Savages

Happy Friday – we made it through another week.  Here in Missoula, it’s First Friday, a night when local businesses present displays of local artists and photographers, coupled with beer, wine and live music.  We’re having an art exhibit by our manager, Tanner Court, at the VFW, with music by another employee, Doug Barrett.  Should be lots of fun.  To warm things up, here are five more reviews for your enjoyment.

Artist Name:  Ghost Town Blues Band

Album Name:  Backstage Pass

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Funk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Come Together; 2.  Tip of my Hat; 3.  Shine; 4.  Giving it all Away; 5.  Big Shirley; 6.  Whipping Post; 7.  I get High; 8.  One More Whiskey; 9.  I Need More Love

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  Memphis-based Ghost Town Blues Band does more than just play the blues, combining their music with a healthy mix of funk and rock to form their own unique style.  That style is manifest in their cover of the Beatles’ “Come Together,” which segues into a cover of Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lotta Love.”  Their original numbers are progressive, upbeat and fun, creating an atmosphere conducive to just cutting loose and having a good time.  They are like the Doobie Brothers with the Tower of Power horns.  The entire album is a collection of live covers and fan favorites, and make us want to get to Memphis and see their live show.  In the meantime, at least we’ll have this album to tide us over until we do.

Recommendation:  If you love blues, funk or rock, and want that live experience, then you simply must Get this one.

Artist Name:  Milo Gore

Album Name:  Too Much Too Soon

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Towel on the Floor; 2.  State

Publicist:  Rollon Entertainment

Review:  The latest from five-piece British alternative rockers is a short two-song EP, and those songs could not be more different.  The first tract, “Towel on the Floor,”  is lo-fi and was recorded in a home studio, while the second, “State,” co-written with electronica artist Jay Beale, is much more upbeat, with interesting vocal harmonies, a steady and driving beat plus an electronic edge to the song.  It would do well on American radio.  We really love “State,” and would love to hear more of that type of song from this band.  We look forward to what they have in store for us.

Recommendation:  As they so eloquently sing in their second song, “They keep me running.”  Run out and Get it.

Artist Name:  Tennessee Jed

Album Name:  Pimpgrass

Label:  Sam & Molly Music

Genre:  Americana/funk/soul/bluegrass

Track Listing:  1.  Over the Mountain; 2.  Shout; 3.  Can’t get There From Here; 4.  Sweet Relief; 5.  Cells; 6.  Opie’s Intermezzo; 7.  Sunup ’til Sundown; 8.  Country Pimpgrass; 9.  Kiss; 10.  The Train for to Carry me Home

Publicist:  Golden Relations

Review:  Tennessee Jed calls his music “Pimgrass” aka “Bluegrass with Bling” because it is a mixture of Americana, funk and soul fused with traditional bluegrass and country music.  He works with an all-star band, including Scott Vestal and Todd Parks (Sam Bush Band), Luke Bulla (Lyle Lovett, Lee Ann Womack and Ricky Scaggs), Josh Shilling (Mountain Heart), Andy Hall (Infamous Stringdusters), Patrick McAvinue and Bob Mummer (Dailey & Vincent) as well as Aaron McCune (Oak Ridge Boys, Dailey & Vincent), on this amazing release, which only makes his unique sound that much more appealing.  From the amazing original, “Over the Mountain,” with McCune providing the bass backing vocals, to the stirring and reimagined covers of “Shout” and “Kiss,” Jed shows us an entirely new side of bluegrass and Americana.  We love the smooth and soothing sound of “Can’t get There from Here” and “Cells,”  the humor of “Sweet Relief,” the Celtic feel of “Opie’s Intermezzo,” the straight Americana feel of “Sunup ’til Sundown” (which could have been lifted from O Brother Where art Thou and “Country Pimpgrass,”

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

Artist Name:  Fanny Walked the Earth

Album Name:  Fanny Walked the Earth

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Lured Away; 2.  When we Need Her; 3.  Walk the Earth; 4. Girls on the Road; 5.  One; 6.  It Happened Here; 7.  Not my Monkey; 8.  Cool Girl; 9.  What are you Waiting For; 10.  Storm-crossed; 11.  Love Farmers

Publicist:   Jensen Publicity

Review:  Back in the 60’s, three teenagers, June Millington, Brie Darling and Jean Adamian, formed a band named Fanny, and proceeded to rewrite rock and roll history by becoming the first all girl band to be signed to a major label.  Jump ahead 38 years, and Kirk Pasich and the folks at Blue Élan Records convinced them to get back together as Fanny Walked the Earth.  The ladies sound like they never stopped playing, and hit the ground running on the first track, “Lured Away,” which definitely belongs on Top 40 radio.  The awesomeness continues with the next track, “When we Need Her,” and continues throughout the entire album.   They pay homage to their past on “Girls on the Road” (reminiscent of Wynonna’s hit, “Girls With Guitars”), rock out on “Walk the Earth,” “One” and “What are you Waiting For,” and speak their mind on so-called “friends” and human behavior on “It Happened Here” and “Not my Monkey.”  “Cool Girl” is a mellow and smooth pop song that is also very radio friendly, while “Storm-crossed” is another rocker.  They close out the album with “Love Farmers,” a thought-provoking ballad that leaves us wanting more.  Hopefully we won’t have to wait another 38 years for the next one.

Recommendation:  Easily one of the best albums of 2018, this one is a must-have for your musical collection.  Get it now!

Artist Name:  Barrence Whitfield & the Savages

Album Name:  Soul Flowers of Titan

Label:  Bloodshot Records

Genre:  Rockabilly/Blues/Soul/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Slowly Losing my Mind; 2.  Pain; 3.  Tall, Black and Bitter; 4.  Tingling; 5.  Sunshine Don’t Make the Sun; 6.  I’ll be Home Someday; 7.  Let’s go to Mars; 8.  Adorable; 9.  I Can’t get no Ride; 10.  I’m Gonna Leave You; 11.  Edie Please; 12.  Say What you Want

Publicist:  Bloodshot Records

Review:  Barrence Whitfield @ the Savages waste no time on their latest project, rocking our blues with the first track, “Slowly Losing my Mind,” and continuing this throbbing sound through the final track, “Way What you Want.”  Our favorites include “Slowly Losing my Mind,” “Tall, Black and Bitter,” “Tingling,” “I’ll be Home Someday,” “Let’s go to Mars,” “Adorable,” “I Can’t get no Ride,” “I’m Gonna Leave You,” and “Edie Please.”

Recommendation:  This one is a must for every serious audiophile, whether you are a fan of the blues, rock, soul or R&B.  We strongly recommend that you Get it.

 

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

Get it or forget it – Rvzoo & the Sugar Spun Elephant Band, Keith Harkin, The Components, Janiva Magness, Fishbach

Hope you’re having a good week.  We are so pleased to bring you five more album reviews, including two from one of our favorite indie labels, Blue Élan Records.  Get ready to be wowed.

Artist Name:   Rvzoo & the Sugar Spun Elephant Band

Album Name:  Guiding Star

Label:  BBY Records

Genre:  Pop/Americana/Jazz

Track Listing:   1.  When I Was Young; 2.  Give me More; 3.  Which way to Run; 4.  If I was a Bird; 5.  A Song for Joyce; 6.  Lonely Desert Wind; 7.  Guiding Star; 8.  Thru This Space and Time; 9.  Transmission Ends; 10.  A Song for Joyce (reprise)

Publicist:   Self-promoted

Review:  The album kicks off with the band’s current single, which is very reminiscent of 70’s Beatles, particularly the Yellow Submarine album.  The simple musical score reflects the lyrics, which are heavy with pop hooks.  The music truly takes the listener back to a simpler time when growing up was a distant dream.  The next two songs have a much more Americana feel, before the piano takes over on “A Song for Joyce,” giving it a jazz standard feel, before returning to the Americana vibe on “Lonely Desert Wind,” with just a taste of U2/ David Bowie.  The title cut is so relaxing and refreshing, perfect for daily chill time, especially the strings and acoustic guitar.  That vibe continues on the next tracks before morphing into a more electronica/ambient sound on track nine.  The album ends with a reprise of “A Song for Joyce.”  What a magnificent audio journey.

Recommendation:  There are so many twists and turns on this album that you simply must add it to your library.  Get it today.

Artist Name:  Keith Harkin

Album Name:  In the Round

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Folk Rock/Country

Track Listing:  1.  Lauren & I; 2.  I Remember it All; 3.  Along the Road; 4.  Take me Down; 5.  First Time; 6.  Whiskey in the Jar; 7.  Risk the Fall; 8.  Mercy; 9.  Ring Tailed Rat; 10.  Care Free Heart; 11.  My Love Goes On; 12.  September Sessions; 13.  Keep on Rolling; 14.  Wait on Me

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  The first thing you hear is the amazing guitar work before that soaring familiar voice kicks in.  You may have heard Keith Harkin during his ten years with Celtic Thunder, but you haven’t really heard him until you listen to this album.  Harkin has dedicated this album to the victims of the Las Vegas shooting, and we cannot imagine a more fitting musical tribute.  You simply must put this record on repeat, because you will hear different things every time, as all the subtle nuances of his craft come to light.  This live album makes you want to rush out and see him in concert.  His music is flavored by his Celtic past, as well as that pervasive Nashville influence, reminiscent of Keith Urban.  There is not a weak song on the entire album, which has easily become one of our all-time favorites.  We really love his rocking cover of the Celtic standard “Whiskey in the Jar.”  What an interesting arrangement.

Recommendation:  This album is definitely in the running for Best of 2018.  Don’t waste another minute – Get it NOW!

Artist Name:  The Components

Album Name:  continuum.

Label:  Mint 400 Records

Genre:  Indie Rock/Grunge

Track Listing:  1.  Parliaments & Witchcraft; 2.  Mayday; 3.  Filthy; 4.  Spirits Help; 5.  Interlude; 6.  Complacent/Complaisant; 7.  Ill Bandito; 8.  Glass Haūs

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Solid rock and roll with a driving beat and guitar is what you get with The Components.  The music definitely drives the song, and makes it easy to get caught up in the rhythm of the music.  Our favorites include “Mayday,” “Filthy” (with its almost two minute instrumental intro), “Interlude,” and “Complacent/Complaisant.”

Recommendation:  This one is worth the chance.  Grab it.

Artist Name:  Janiva Magness

Album Name:  Love is an Army

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Back to Blue; 2. Hammer (ft. Charlie Musselwhite); 3.  On and On (ft. Rusty Young; 4.  Tell Me; 5.  Love is an Army (ft. Bryan Stephens; 6.  Down Below (ft. Courtney Hartman); 7.  What’s That say About You; 8.  What I Could Do (ft. Delbert McClintock); 9.  Home (ft. Cedric Burnside); 10.  Love to a Gunfight; 11.  When it Rains; 12.  Some Kind of Love

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  All you have to do is look at the song list and the featured artists (including labelmates Bryan Stephens and Rusty Young), and you know right away that this album is going to be great.  Add to that her 2016 Grammy nomination, her seven Blues Music Awards and a BB King Award, and it becomes quickly obvious that Janiva Magness is the reigning Queen of the Blues.  Her smoky voice and the progressive blues soundtrack make a perfect combination, showcasing her talents at capturing the essence of the song.  We love this album, but our favorite tracks include “Back to Blue,” “Hammer” (with its soulful harmonica), the sweet pedal steel and country sound of “On and On,” “Tell Me,” the title track, “Down Below,” “Home,” “Love to a Gunfight,” and “Some Kind of Love.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer.  You MUST Get this album ASAP!

Artist Name:  Fishbach

Album Name:  A Ta Merci

Label:  Entreprise

Genre:  French Pop/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Ma Voie Lactée; 2.  Y Crois-Tu; 3.  Eternité; 4.  Un Beau Langage; 5.  Un Autre Que Moi; 6. Feu; 7.  On mi dit Tu; 8.  Invisible Désintégration de l’univers; 9.  Le Chàteau; 10.  Mortel; 11.  Le Meiller de la Féte; 12.  A ta Merci; 13.  Dansne Boîte en papier; 14.  Ajmal Logha (ft. Bachar Mar-Khalifé)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Although this album was released last year in Europe, it was just released in the United States last Friday.  Fishbach definitely transcends the language barrier and delivers music that is hip in any culture.  It is upbeat, fun, and entices you to get up and shake your groove thing.  It has that ABBA feel that is intoxicating, grabbing elements of 80’s dance music set to beautiful French words.  It is easy to see why she won a French Grammy for her music.

Recommendation:  Whether or not you speak French, the joy of the songs comes through loud and clear.  Add this foreign language CD to your musical library – you’ll thank me for it.

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 8

The Big Sky Documentary Film Festival has come to a close, and it was a very successful run.  So many of the movies sold out, including a few that we had the pleasure of viewing, such as Dark Money, Fail State and the Greg Barker film The Final Year.  We’ll have more on the winners at the Festival later this week.  For now, here’s the latest news on the indie arts front.

AMERICANAFEST IS ACCEPTING SHOWCASE APPLICATIONS

Showcase submissions for AMERICANAFEST® 2018 are now open and will be accepted through Monday, March 26, 2018. There are two ways to submit:
  • Submissions are open to anyone via our digital platform for a small fee of $25.  Digitally submit here.
  • Become an artist member of the Americana Music Association® today and take advantage of free submissions, access to our expansive artist and industry global community, discounted conference registration rates and more!  To join, click here.  Once you join, you will find a free submission form link in your welcome letter.
Selected artists will showcase Tuesday, September 11 through Sunday, September 16 at many premiere venues throughout Nashville, Tennessee.  For more information, go to our website.
MONTANA REP ANNOUNCES NEW DIRECTOR

Montana Repertory Theatre, the professional theatre-in-residence at the University of Montana School of Theatre & Dance, has selected Michael Legg to become its next artistic director.

Legg is currently the director of the Professional Training Company at Actors Theatre of Louisville, Kentucky.  He will start his new role at the University of Montana on July 1.

Montana Rep celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2017.  Greg Johnson, whose tenure with Montana Rep began in 1990, is delighted with the choice.

“Mr. Legg brings youth, vision and vitality at a time when the Rep is poised not only to continue its tradition of touring nationally, but also to be a strong artistic presence in Missoula and the region, as the University of Montana begins its renaissance under our new president.”

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS ARTIST KEITH HARKIN TO PLAY SPECIAL PRE-ST. PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION AT LA’S HOTEL CAFE

Irish singer/songwriter Keith Harkin (of Celtic Thunder fame) is currently on a Stateside tour in support of his new live solo release, In The Round, his fourth album on Blue Élan Records.

He will perform at Los Angeles’ famed indie listening room The Hotel Cafe (1623 Cahuenga Boulevard, Hollywood) on Saturday, March 5 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are available here for $35 in advance.  We strongly encourage you to attend this show.

NEW SINGLES

 Our first single today comes from Ruby Friedman and Two Beards.  It is an amazing Americana song called “Un4gvn.”  We truly dig it and hope you will too.

We just discovered an amazing British country pop band called Delaware.  They have a new single called “Fire,” and we think it is really hot.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final new single today is a rocking number from Australian artist Reichelt.  Here is “Seduced by the Light Side.”  Let it get your new week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the title track for the forthcoming EP from Keaton Simons, one of Los Angeles’ elite indie artists.  His new EP will be released on March 9 and is being produced by Nashville legendary producer Marshall Altman.  It will have more of an Americana feel than his previous material.  Let us know what you think.

Last week we reviewed the new EP from Marieme, and were truly impressed with her voice and her message.  Here’s the music video for her most personal and powerful song, “Leave.”  This one will move you.

Our final video today comes from another Blue Élan artist, Cindy Alexander.  She has released a lyric video for her song “Passenger,” from her latest album, Nowhere to Hide.  Have a wonderful week.

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 7

Mother Nature has made it clear these past few days that she’s not ready for spring yet here in Montana, as we have been bombarded with snow, high winds and sub-zero temperatures.  Regardless of the weather, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival kicked off last Friday night with a sold-out screening of the film Dark Money, attended by our very own Governor.  Attendance at other screenings on Saturday, Sunday and today have been high, including quite a few sell-outs, including Forever B, the one I attended tonight about kidnap victim Jan Broberg, a child kidnap victim and author of Loss of Innocence.

We have a bit of news for you today, as well as four new singles and three new music videos, so let’s get to it.

DIANA REIN LAUNCHES CROWD-FUNDING CAMPAIGN

Referred to as the “The Six-String Siren,” LA Music Critic Award winner Diana Rein has announced the launch of a crowd-funding campaign for her upcoming album, Queen Of My Castle. The follow-up to her critically-lauded 2016 release Long Road, Queen Of My Castle is being co-produced by Michael Leasure (drummer extraordinaire with the Walter Trout Band).

“The new album is a collection of 15 songs, with one of those songs being a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan,” says Rein, just back from representing Guitar Girl Magazine at the 2018 NAMM Conference.  Rein is the featured artist for the month of April in their 2018 Calendar.  “There’s a lot of traditional blues, as well as high energy, upbeat, and blues-rock songs that I know you guys will love. This album will be lucky #3 for me and my first full-band album.  I loved making my last record on my own, but I am really looking forward to challenging myself this time around and collaborating with the pros.”

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL NEWS

The Hollywood Fringe Festival is getting ready for their ninth run June 7-24, and is looking for interns and volunteers, specifically in the areas of Fringe Central Set Design, Events, Volunteer Coordinator and Cabaret.  Interning with the Fringe is the best way to get hands on experience behind the scenes of the largest performing arts festival in the west.  Interns work directly with Fringe staff to help run various aspects of the festival.  Click the link for position details.  If you are interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to internships@hollywoodfringe.org.  Please specify which position you are interested in.  The deadline to apply is April 1.

NEW SINGLES

Here’s the first single from the forthcoming album People Person by Everett Bird.  The single is entitled “Bucket of Dark Meat,” and we think you’ll like it.  It is different from many of the songs featured here, so get ready to try something new.

https://soundcloud.com/royalmountain/03-bucket-of-dark-meat/s-5vsqk?in=royalmountain/sets/everett-bird-people-person/s-TOwD8

Next up is “The Monster” from LA based garage rock band Bird Concerns.  This one truly rocks.

Our third single today is from folk singer songwriter Brown Kid.  It is definitely a step down energy wise from the previous song, but it is different enough to pass on to you.  The song is entiled “Sunrise” and we want to hear your feedback.

https://soundcloud.com/brown_kid_music/sunrise-single

Our final single today is from another LA Music Critic Award winner, Sleep Machine.  They are releasing their newest album one song at a time.  Here is “Mother.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our favorite Italian rock band is back with another hot video.  Check out “Never Obey” from Black Mamba.  We guarantee this one will rock your sock.

Our next video is the latest from Allison Iraheta and Mathew Hager, aka Halo Circus.  It is a video for their single “Narcissist,” which we debuted two weeks ago.  Please let us know what you think.

Blue Élan Records continues to bring back classic bands, and the latest to return is Fanny Walked the Earth.  Here is the video for “Lured Away,” their first single in 34 years.