Tag: Cindy Alexander

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 19)

Hope you enjoyed this past weekend of Juneteenth and Father’s Day.  Are you ready for a new Monday Mashup?  We got some great new singles and music videos, so let’s get this party started.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single is a powerhouse collaboration between two of the most soulful indie artists we have ever had the pleasure of knowing.  We’re talking about vocals from the one and only Debby Holiday and the incomparable Chris Pierce, combined with a sizzling soundtrack from Brett Oosterhaus.  Check out the radio edit of their hot new tune, “Love and Beats.”

Next up is the latest upbeat treat from LA’s iconic BINX.  She just keeps getting better and better.  In fact, she’s “Glossy,”

Track number three is the latest country offering from the classy Casey Ahern.  This one brings back so many memories and we love all the references to great country classics.  Here’s “Heartbreak Radio.”

Here’s a Monday Mashup extra – hard to believe that it was 30 years ago when CCM artist Amy Grant set the music world on edge with the release of her first pop album, Heart in Motion.  To celebrate she has re-released the album, complete with new songs.  Here’s “Don’t Ever Want to Lose It (Wind in the Fire).”

Next up is a sweet upbeat tune from Bella Paton.  We love her light and airy sound and her sweet vocals.  Check out “Spacey,”  We hope to hear more from her soon.

We close out this week’s singles with this soulful and reflective ballad from Swedish American duo Flora Cash.  This one will stay with you long after the song ends.  Here’s “Don’t You Look at me That Way.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

It’s been a few years since we last caught up with LA songstress Scarlett Taylor.  We have previously reviewed three albums and featured three songs on Monday Mashup. and we think her latest music video is one of her best.  Here’s “California Dreamin.”

Next up is the latest from 2018 LA Music Critic Award nominee Andy Sydow.  This one has a pure country radio-friendly sound and a humorous video.  Check out “Just One More Time.”

Our third video is the final one from her album While the Angels Sigh.  Blue Élan Records artist Cindy Alexander has done it again with a stellar lyric video for her song “Chiaroscuro.”

Next up is a video from hot British duo Superlove.  This one will definitely get your juices flowing.  Celebrate “The People You’ll Love Forever.”

Closing out this week’s music videos is this feel good tune from Canadian group Parks N’ Rec that will definitely get you ready for summer with its reggae sound.  Time to bid “Adieu” to the past.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 17)

We have officially moved to North Carolina and the renovations have begun on our new home.  We just got our internet installed last Thursday, and I had a job interview as well.  Going through the background check right now, and hope to hear from them soon.  In the meantime, let’s get back to sharing new singles and new music videos with you.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is a beautiful and harmonious duet featuring our friend Melissa Polinar and the other worldly sound of the one and only India.Arie.  With our country finally coming back alive and a full concert schedule for the summer, let’s celebrate with their joyous tune “We Started a Song.”

Spotify – We Started a Song

Another voice that has led the revolution has returned with a powerful new ballad that is inspiring a whole new generation.  Check out “I Belong,” the latest anthem from MILCK.

I Belong · MILCK (spotify.com)

It’s never a bad time for a new tune from the golden boy Gabe Dixon.  His vocals drip with honey and his mastery of the keys is second to none.  Sit back and enjoy his musical style and “Lay it on Me.”

Lay It on Me · Gabe Dixon (spotify.com)

We are pleased to introduce you to a new voice in indie music who has a song that hits hard, especially in our current situation.  Please check out Kimi Kazee and her introspective “Live With It.”  We want to know what you think.

Live With It · Kimi Kazee (spotify.com)

We close out this week’s new singles with a fresh country voice from someone who just may be the female version of Brad Paisley with her humorous tongue-in-check tune “Normal Girls.”  Give it up for Crystal Leigh.

Spotify – Normal Girls

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Blue Élan Records resident funny lady Scout Durwood is back with another great video.  Laugh along to her antics as she laments “Now That UR Gone.”  Warning – explicit lyrics.

Our second video is from another Blue Élan artist, who also was responsible for getting the label off the ground.  Cindy Alexander‘s latest album While the Angels Sigh has generated one great song after another.  Her latest is “Alizarin Crimson,” and the music visualizer is stellar.  Enjoy another taste of our favorite Pnut.

Next up is one of our favorite British guilty pleasures – Single by Sunday.  In their video for “Hey Boy,” they remind us that age is just a number – just because we grow up doesn’t mean we can’t still have fun.

Video number four is dedicated to the Pride community and comes from one of LA’s most intriguing duos – Lucy & La Mer.  “Ooh La La” – Happy Pride Month.

We close out this week with the latest from the one thing we will miss most about Oklahoma – The Imaginaries.  This husband and wife duo is at the top of their game, and recently collaborated with Cheryl Ladd on a movie.  They close out the week with “Trust Falling With You.”  See you next week.

p.s.  I got the job.

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 16)

Welcome to our final Monday Mashup from Oklahoma because . . . (drumroll please!) . . . we’re moving to North Carolina!  My wife and I have purchased a beautiful home built in 1900 in the sleepy little town of Scotland Neck, North Carolina and are in the process of moving there.  We hope to be back up and running by the first of June.  In the meantime, enjoy these great new singles and music videos.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest from a group we discovered at a show in Spokane a few years ago.  Hailing from Portland, the BGP are fun pop that is uplifting and will definitely put a smile on your face.  Check out “20 Ways.”

20 Ways · The Bgp (spotify.com)

The pandemic has brought out some of t he best from indie artists and this next single is living proof.  Check out this collaboration from Lucy Schwartz, MILCK and KPH & the Canary Collective.  They want us to know that despite the restrictions placed on us because of COVID, we are “Not Alone.”

Not Alone (Tiny Paper Clips) [feat. MILCK, KPH & The Canary Collective] · Lucy Schwartz, MILCK, KPH & The Canary Collective (spotify.com)

Our third single is from the effervescent Sonia Rao, who has not graced our pages in far too long  We have always loved her music, and this song was recently selected by the City of Los Angeles as one of the best.  We wholeheartedly agree.  Check out “Louder.”

Louder · Sonia Rao (spotify.com)

Powerful women have always had a place in country music, and a new voice has appeared on the horizon.  We are proud to present the debut single from Allison Cipris, and we could not agree more – “She’s a Queen.”

She’s a Queen · Allison Cipris (spotify.com)

We close out our new singles with this hyper-pop offering from Binny which is perfect for your work-out soundtrack.  Please send us “Feedback” on this great new tune.

Feedback · BINNY (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Cindy Alexander is back with another stellar video for the never ending amazing collection of songs on her latest, While the Angels Sigh.  We are humbled that this truly gifted talent continues to provide some of the best music and videos in the indie world today.  Here’s “Walking Constellation.”

Another Blue Élan Records artist is also back with a new video and it is beautiful in its simplicity.  We love the toy piano and the sentiments expressed by Chelsea Williams with her song “High Speed Chase.”

Switching gears to the high energy rock of the band ROCKET, we are proud to present their latest offering.  Filmed during a sold-out show at LA’s El Rey theater, this band shows not signs of “Fading Out.”

Our fourth video comes from one of LA’s resident guitar bad asses, none other than Ali Handal.  Her latest visual and sonic treat is a lyric video for her song, “Pour me Another.”  All we can say is “Yes, please.”

We close out our videos with another lyric video, his time from our Nashville friends, Crimson Calamity.  Let their vocal harmonies roll over you as they bring us this ode to “My Best Friends.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 14)

Sorry for the late posting, but I was awakened yesterday to the news that I had to work a double shift because my boss had an adverse reaction to his second Moderna vaccine.  We think this week’s post will be worth the wait, as we have some great singles and music videos to share.  Let’s get right to it.

NEW SINGLES

We kick things off this week with the latest from one of LA’s premier songwriters who is proving once again that she is a phenomenal performer as well.  This new single reveals the “Inner Me” from songstress Melissa Polinar who is joined by Jaime Woods on this radio-worthy tune.

Inner Me · Melissa Polinar, Jaime Woods (spotify.com)

Next up is the Americana sound of Ada Pasternak.  She sings about “Expectations” and what we should do about them.  Check out this amazing rising artist.  Her violin rivals Lindsay Sterling.

Expectations · Ada Pasternak (spotify.com)

Our third single this week comes from Alexandria Corn aka ACORN, whose sound is a combination of Pink, Gwen Stefani and Demi Lovato.  Her latest is “Anti-Social,” and it deserves serious radio airplay as well as a spot in your heart.

Anti-Social · ACORN (spotify.com)

Our fourth single requires you to turn it up.  Hailing from the Ukraine, Vinok turns their mental health prowess into a powerful story of redemption and hope.  Check out “River.”

River · Vinok (spotify.com)

Our final single this week is actual a two-fer from up and coming band Hands Down.  They debut with an awesome pair of tunes, “Paintroller” and “Too Late.”  We think you’ll be putting these two tunes on repeat.

Paintroller · Hands Down (spotify.com)

Too Late · Hands Down (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Guess who’s back with another great new video?  None other than LA’s own pop princess, Cindy Alexander.  This time around she gives us the hard-hitting “Lightning,” and once again we’re hooked on the amazing songwriting and performing chops of Ms. Alexander.  This one is a keeper.  Three cheers to the amazing dancing of Emphis.

It’s been a minute since we last featured the music of Sonja Midtune, but she’s back with abandon on her latest music video for “Los Angeles.”  As a long-time resident of the City of Angels, it is wonderful to take this trip down memory lane as she brings to life this incredible song she co-wrote with Katie Ferrara.  We love it.

Our third video is from the multi-talented Kat Cunning, who has spent time on both the Broadway stage and your television set, as well as stopped traffic with her powerful singing voice.  Her new video may be called “Could be Good,” but we think she’s a shoo-in.

We last featured Tayler Jade back in February, and we are happy to spotlight her latest video for “WYA (where you at).”  Her soaring vocals and chill musical soundtrack will make this one an instant classic.

We close out this week with a lyric video from the Russian songbird, Marina V.  Our relationship goes back quite a few years, and her songwriting and performing skills continue to blossom and grow.  Check out “Rain my Love.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 12)

Got my Pfizer #2 last Thursday, so I’m only 10 days away from being fully vaccinated.  So glad that I can soon be out mingling again and dispensing hugs to worthy friends and family.  While we all wait for things to return to normal, here are some new singles and music videos to start your week out triumphantly.

NEW SINGLES

First up is an artist we discovered a few years back when she performed at the Zootown Fringe Festival in Missoula, Montana.  Sharon Knight is a true minstrel who combines her witty lyrical content along with ancient Celtic tunes to create a relaxing atmosphere.  Check out her latest, “Fireflies.”

Spotify – Fireflies

Continuing in that Celtic frame of mind with a touch of Americana, here is “Sunken Ships” from UK-based The Jode Gannon Band.  We hear a taste of Mumford and Sons in their sound, and are definitely adding them to our international group of amazing indie artists.

Sunken Ships · The Jode Gannon Band (spotify.com)

We never get enough of the 80s, so we were thrilled to learn about a Swedish artist that goes by the moniker The 80s Kid.  His latest, “Roots,” is a fun  throwback to those days and we are proud to share him with you.

Roots · The 80s Kid (spotify.com)

Our fourth single brings back memories of great country music from the late 90s and early 00s,, and we can’t believe we have never heard these guys before.  We think you’ll love this timely tune from Rene Russell and the Bottom End.  Here’s “Unheard of,” and we think you should pay attention to the words of this tune.

Unheard Of · Rene Russell and The Bottom End (spotify.com)

Our final single this week continues in that country vein with a throwback to the Outlaw Country of artists like Travis Tritt and Marty Stuart.  Welcome to Tucker Wetmore and his debut single, “Kiss my A$$.”

Kiss My A$$ · Tucker Wetmore (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Last Friday marked the release of their debut self-titled album, but The Imaginaries are far from novices on the music scene.  They have previously released several amazing videos from the album, and their latest is another work of art, filmed entirely in their native state of Oklahoma.  Check out “Blue Sky.”

Our next video is based on the premise of what if that voice in your head was an actual person.  We love the creativeness of Michael Shynes‘ new video for “Still Take You.”  Check it out and listen carefully to the words.

Our third video is from an artist that is no stranger to this Blog, and the hits just keep coming.  We love this lady and this song in particular, as it brings back the gritty sass of some of her earlier work.  Check out Cindy Alexander‘s latest video for “Room at the Bottom.”

Our fourth video comes from a German band we introduced to you earlier this year.  The Flavians are back with an interesting visual concept that we love for their song “Blinded by the Scenery.”  This one is worthy  of repeated viewings.

We close out this week with this stunning video from Anna of the North, who we haven’t heard from since 2019.  We are overjoyed to have her back in our blog, and we think this song deserves some serious attention.  Check out “Here’s to Another.”

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 11)

Glad to be back at home after a wonderful vacation with my family in North Carolina.  We had a great time visiting with our family there, learning more about our ancestry and looking at homes for our forthcoming move.  We’ll keep you informed as details firm up, but it looks like we will be settling in Scotland Neck in Halifax County, about 30 miles outside Rocky Mount.

Indie artists have been super busy creating amazing songs and videos, and we are overjoyed to be able to share some more with you today.  Enjoy these gems.

NEW SINGLES

One of our favorite LA indie artists is back with another new song.  We have known Shannon Hurley for more than 20 years, and she keeps getting better.  Between her solo work, her work with Lovers & Poets and her artistic endeavors, she continues to show that  indie music is the best music in the world.  Check out “Where we Belong,” and hop on board the train that never stops.

Where We Belong · Shannon Hurley (spotify.com)

Our next single comes from a long-time indie artist who gained fame as the songwriter of one of The Dixie Chicks‘ greatest songs, “Wide Open Spaces.”  Susan Gibson is back with a truly uplifting song that is so perfect for today’s pandemic climate.  Check out “Compassionate Combat.”

Compassionate Combat · Susan Gibson (spotify.com)

Our third single is a danceable tune that will get you toes tapping and your body aching to head out to the dance floor.  We have never featured her before, but with this release, we are head over heels for the music of Katie Welch.  Take a trip to the “BLVD” and enjoy.

Spotify – BLVD

Next up is a rocking country tune that features perfect harmonies and powerful lyrics from four amazing ladies who call themselves Highway Women.  This song should be headed to the top of the country charts and usher these ladies into the big time.  Here’s “Dead Man Walking.”

Dead Man Walking · Highway Women (spotify.com)

Our final single this week is from an entirely new artist to us that is unlike any we have heard before.  He goes by the moniker of Trunky Juno and his music is dream pop with a rhythmic beat.  His song speaks of abandonment and feelings we all have when life is just unbearable.  Check out “Daddy’s Gone for Cigarettes.”

Spotify – Daddy’s Gone For Cigarettes

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Cindy Alexander continues her cavalcade of hits from her forthcoming album While the Angels Sigh with the release of the breathtaking video for “Broken but Beloved,” featuring amazing choreography that perfectly captures the essence of this heart-wrenching ballad.  This one will stay with you long after the song ends.

Next up is the latest from Rachel Lorin.  This time around she covers the stirring Linkin Park song, “Numb,” breathing new life into the powerful lyrics with an emotional performance that truly brings this song to life.

Our third video brings new meaning to the term “one-man band.”  In the first video for his forthcoming album Solitaire, Ted Russell Kamp plays all the instruments in this moving tribute, “My Girl Now.”  This one will be pleasing to everyone who loves great Americana/folk music.

Next up is a timely video for our favorite time of the year.  “Wait for Spring” is a visually stimulating lyric video that showcases the talent of Shannon Clark & the Sugar, and leaves us wanting more of their forthcoming release, Marks on the Wall.

Our final video this week is from Andy Sydow, who has been relatively quiet since he burst onto the scene back in 2018, garnering nominations from the LA Music Critic Awards and a very positive review of his album.  His new song, “Mona Lisas Everywhere” is an upbeat tune with a fun video that shares the truth behind the lyrics.  This one is worthy of further exploration.

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 10)

Sorry for the lateness but scheduling conflicts prevented us from publishing our weekly Monday Mashup column yesterday.  We will be off-grid next week but back again on the 22nd with another edition.

Speaking of our column, if you want to be included, please make sure that you include a public link from either Soundcloud or Spotify with your request.  Also please be aware that we do not preview the singles and videos before their release date, so please do not send follow-up emails before your single/video is released to the public.

With that housekeeping hint, and in honor of International Women’s Day, we present to you this week’s new singles and videos.  We hope you enjoy these tunes and that you take the time to check out the artists.

NEW SINGLES

Los Angeles is home to some of the finest songwriters in the world, and recently, six of them combined to form anall-female collaborative band.  Composed of Tawny Ellis, Pi Jacobs, Heather Anne Lomax, Amilia K. Spicer, Deb Morrison, and Manda Mosher, The Wild West have released their first single, “Better Way,” and we love it.  We can’t wait to see what they come up with next.  After all, “We are the change.”

Better Way · The Wild West (spotify.com)

Next up is a cover of the classic America hit, “Sister Golden Hair” that is a totally fresh vision.  Performed by Blue Élan Records artist Chelsea Williams, the cover is part of an collection of covers by other labelmates in honor of the release of Gerry Beckley‘s long awaited greatest hits album, Keeping the Light On.  Prepare to have your mind blown.

Sister Golden Hair · Chelsea Williams (spotify.com)

It’s been a few weeks since we last heard from LA’s iconic songbird, Kris Angelis, but she’s back with a new single, “I’d Give Anything.”  Definitely add this one to your rotation of daily inspiration.

I’d Give Anything · Kris Angelis (spotify.com)

Our fourth single comes from rising star Casey Ahern with her ballad, “Bradley.”  We really love her thoughtful lyrics and the sweet easy vibe of this song.  We think she’s well on her way to stardom.

Bradley · Casey Ahern (spotify.com)

Last but not least this week is the latest from another Blue Élan artist, Car Astor.  She sings a moving ode to her friend “Sarah,” and we think this one will move you to your core.  Grab a glass of wine and enjoy.

Sarah · Car Astor (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Last week we debuted her new single and this week we are happy to share the accompanying lyric video for “Try, Try, Try” from the iconic indie rock star, Cindy Alexander.  We think this is one of her best songs ever, and we hope you will check her out.  We especially love the hand drawn animation by Anik.

Next up is a chilling video for the latest by Rachel Lorin, a haunting cover of “The Killing Moon” by Echo & The Bunnymen.  The cinematography is stunning, and Lorin’s voice adds a memorable touch.  Don’t watch this one late at night.

Our third video is from another Blue Élan artist, Roan Yellowthorn.  Check out the thrilling video for her radio-worthy single, “Vampire.”

Next is the latest from one of our favorite duos, Aly & AJ.  We love the home video feel of “Pretty Places,” and their harmonies are to die for.  Enjoy this one and put it on repeat.  It really makes us want to hit the road again soon.

Our final video this week features a classic Betty Boop cartoon as background for the lyric video for “Thirsty” by Elizabeth and the Catapult.  Have fun with this one.

 

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indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 8)

Well, the Great Freeze of 2021 is finally behind us, leaving a path of chaos, snow and ice.  Good thing indie artists have been busy creating great art.  We are fortunate to premiere some great new songs this week, so let’s get started.

NEW SINGLES

Back when I was getting started in the music business, I met a young singer-songwriter that impressed the hell out of me.  She was performing with her guitarist, Christian Nesmith, the son of Michael of The Monkees fame.  That artist went on to form her own label and win a major music contest before joining forces with Kirk and Connor Pasich to form Blue Élan Records.  We’re talking, of course, about the illustrious Cindy Alexander, whose new single, “Try, Try, Try” dropped this past Friday.  Check it out and put it on repeat.  Her tenth studio album, While the Angels Sigh, will be released on April 23.

Spotify – Try, Try, Try

Next up is another Blue Élan artist, Gina Sicilia, who has recorded a spectacular cover of the powerful ballad, “Survival,” from Keep the Lights On, the forthcoming album celebrating the career of her labelmate and original America member, Gerry Beckley.  We absolutely love this remake.  Turn it on and crank it up.

Survival · Gina Sicilia (spotify.com)

Our third single is from our dear friend and the co-creator of the Don’t Call us Tori showcases, Shannon Hurley.  She is back with another single, “Love in the Dark.”  This one is a true keeper and proves that this artist just keeps getting better.

Spotify – Love in the Dark

Next up is a hyperpop groove from Irish artist Apollo Monroe.  He will  have you ready to dance with his latest tune, “Soda Pop.”

soda pop · Apollo Monroe (spotify.com)

We close out our singles this week with a pair of singles from Jesse Barrera, Nieman and Melissa Polinar that are sweet as honey and powerful in their subtlety.  Their voices blend so effortlessly that we can’t wait to see what comes next.  Check out “What we Found” and “Tangle Up (Reimagined).”

What We Found · Jesse Barrera, Nieman, Melissa Polinar (spotify.com)

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from an artist we have seen rise up from the unknown to become an amazing actress and artist.  She has never lost the ability to stir up emotions and her latest, “This is Home,” is exactly what we need to move on from the horrors of 2020.  Give it up for the one and only Kate Voegele.

Next up is the R&B stylings of Tayler Jade, with a chill-worthy tune that belongs on the radio and on constant repeat in your YouTube feed.  Don’t let this be ‘Temporary.”

Our next video goes country with a sweet voice that truly belongs on the radio.  We introduced her to you last December when she released our favorite cover version of “Hard Candy Christmas.” Alexandra Kay is a rising voice and we love the simplicity of her lyric video for “We Wouldn’t Be Us.”  We think you’ll fall in love with her as well.

Video number four is an interesting concept for the 80’s-inspired sound of Megan Nash and the Best of Intentions for their outstanding song, “Quiet.”  Trust us, we don’t expect you to keep this one to yourself.

Our final video this week is from the great new group Kids in America, which features our friend, Curtis Peoples.  This is the sound of Top 40 Radio, and it couldn’t happen to a more deserving artist.  Check out the video for “Afterlife,” featuring Luna Aura.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 32

And so we begin another month with our first Monday Mashup of November 2019.  We have some great new singles and videos for you, and truly hope to get back to reviewing albums soon.  In the meantime, check out these great new sounds.

NEW SINGLES

We kick off this edition with a special thanks to Blue Élan Records, who consistently support indie music and bring us some of the best music available today.  Case in point, The Vegabonds have released their cover of the classic song “The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down,” a song I have loved for nearly 50 years.  This one captures all the power of the lyrics and puts that special spin on it that is the trademark of The Vegabonds.

Next up we have a pair of holiday songs from two more prominent Blue Élan artists, Cindy Alexander and Roan Yellowthorn.   First up is Alexander’s take on the holiday classic, “Do you Hear What I Hear?”

Yellowthorn joins with Car Astor to bring us their version of another holiday classic, “River.”  Hopefully these songs will get you in the holiday mood.

Next up is the Top 40-worthy sound of Midnight Divide, with their song “Say You Believe.”  We think you’ll be hearing these guys on your local radio dial soon.  Their sound reminds us of OneRepublic meets Imagine Dragons.

Our final single this week is from Canadian folk-rock band Union Duke.  We love the laid back and chill sound and think that you will be putting “Atlas of Love” on repeat.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We are happy to share the debut of the new music video from Maltese Flamingo, “Shivers.”  This one is trippy, but fun.  Enjoy!

Next up is a video from Crystal Bright, an artist we have previously featured on Indie Voice Blog, but haven’t heard from in a while.  This one is powerful, so dig in and listen to “I’ll Hold You.”

Next up is one of our favorite bands that don’t take themselves seriously, namely Ninja Sex Party.  On the first single from their upcoming covers album, they give us their take on the classic Jefferson Starship tune, “We Built This City.”  Sit back and enjoy this version.

We travel across the pond for the rocking groove of Carnival Club‘s latest video, “Lady.”  Let the hair fly and the good times begin.

We close out the week with this fun video from Penny Dreadful, the delightful burlesque alter ego of multi-LA Music Critic Award winner VK Lynne.  Here she does a cover of the Cher classic, “Welcome to Burlesque.”  We think it is the perfect tribute to our friends at Cherry Poppins Productions, and we salute them on the occasion of their seventh anniversary.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Best of 2018 Women in Entertainment

Forty best albums of 2018

What a year for indie music.  We received a boatload of review requests from around the world, and published reviews of nearly 1,000 CDs and EPs.  We culled through those we reviewed first to pick our nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards, and now to compile our list of the 40 Best CDs of 2018.

Due to the sheer volume, we only considered full-length projects for this list, but that doesn’t mean that quite a few of the EPs we reviewed weren’t also worthy of distinction.  We may yet put together another list of just EPs.

In the meantime, while we wait for the winners of the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards to be announced tomorrow, here are our favorite CDs of 2018.  You can find their individual reviews by searching for them on our blog.

40.  Kate Reid – The Heart Already Knows

39.  Deb Ryder – Enjoy the Ride

38.  Jeffrey Foucault – War on the Radio

37.  Katie Herzig – Moment of Bliss

36.  Eric Tingstad – Electric Spirit

35.  Fanny Walked the Earth – self-titled

34.  Wily Bo Walker – Almost Transparent Blues

33.  Buddy Guy – The Blues is Alive and Well

32.  Walt Weiskopf – European Quartet

31.  Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers – All I Got for Christmas is the Blues

30.  YYNOT – self-titled

29.  Peter V Blues Band – Shaken but not Deterred

28.  Delta Moon – Babylon is Falling

27.  The Textones – Old Stone Gang

26.  Ronny Morris – Sweet Silence

25.  Sydney Wright – Seiche

24.  Gleeson – The Years Have It

23.  Colin Devlin – High Point

22.  Everlast – Don’t Complain

21.  Zsuzsika – Start Again

20.  Michael Peterson – From Here to Eternity

19.  K. Michelle Dubois – Autumn

18.    Broken Bellows – I, Kaleidoscope

17.  Rachel Sage – Myopia

16.  Janiva Magness – Love is an Army

15.  John Flanagan Trio – Honest Man

14.  Lee Ainley’s Blues Storm – Shoot me Down

13.  Floods – Bad Times

12.  Frank Hannon (From One Place . . . to Another, vols 1 and 2)

11.  Keith Harkin – In the Round

10.  Southern Halo – Just Like in the Movies

9.  Cindy Alexander – Nowhere to Hide

8.  Kari Kimmel – Gold & Glitter

7.  Hymn for Her – Pop-n-Downers

6.  Jordan Siwek – Sun Inside You

5.  Slim Gambill – Fake Jazz

4.  Gina Sicilia – Heard the Lie

3.  Birds and Arrows – Arbitrary Magic

2.  Brigitte Rios Purdy – Still I Rise

and the Best Album of 2018 goes to

Norway Reloaded – My Longest Mile