Tag: Cindy Alexander

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

Get it or forget it (Christmas edition) – Mindi Abair and the Boneshakers, Paul Cardall, Redhead Express, The Humming Bards

Happy Thanksgiving.  As promised, here are four Christmas albums we received this year, and they are all amazing.  We hope this gets you in the proper mood for the holiday season.

Artist Name:   Mindi Abair & the Boneshakers

Album Name:   All I Got for Christmas is the Blues

Label:   Pretty Good for a Girl Records

Genre:   Christmas (Blues/Funk)

Track Listing:   1.  All I Got for Christmas is the Blues; 2.  I Can’t Wait for Christmas; 3.  Merry Christmas Baby; 4.  Christmas (Baby Please Come Home); 5.  The Best Part of Christmas; 6.  Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree; 7.  The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire); 8.  Run Run Rudolph; 9.  Christmas Fool

Publicist:   Blind Raccoon

Review:  Mindi Abair is a two-time Grammy-nominated saxophonist and vocalist who is a master of jazz, blues and funk.  On her first holiday album, she brings four originals and five re-imagined classics to get your holidays off to a bluesy and funky start.  She kicks things off with the original title track before reinventing her own 2004 tune, “I Can’t Wait for Christmas.”  The band then tackles the Charles Brown R&B standard “Merry Christmas Baby” before tackling and improving on the Phil Spector/Darlene Lee classic “Christmas (Baby Please Come Home).”  Our favorite song is next with “The Best Part of Christmas,” a song she co-wrote with her old college friend and long-time collaborator, Matthew Hager from Halo Circus.  On “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree,” she gets to be both Brenda Lee and Boots Randolph as she gives the pop classic a modern bluesy sound.  You will not believe the amazing new arrangement the band gives to “The Christmas Song,” but we think it will easily become your favorite version.  She closes out this special Christmas gift with Chuck Berry‘s “Run Run Rudolph” before ending with a “back porch break down” on “Christmas Fool.”  This one is sure to become a holiday favorite.

Recommendation:   Don’t think twice.  Get this one for your holiday listening enjoyment.

Artist Name:   Paul Cardall

Album Name:   Christmas

Label:   Stone Angel Music

Genre:   Christmas (Classical)

Track Listing:   1,  Hard the Herald Angels Sing; 2.  In the Bleak Midwinter (ft Audrey Assad); 3.  O Come O Come Emmanuel; 4.  Jesus Once of Humble Birth; 5.  It Came Upon a Midnight Clear; 6.  Christmas Past; 7.  Joy to the World; 8.  O Holy Night (ft CeCe Winans); 9.  Bring a Torch, Jeanette, Isabella; 10.  Once in Royal David’s City; 11.  Son of God (ft Patrice Tipoki); 12.  Away in a Manger; 13.  Silent Night

Publicist:   Morris Public Relations

Review:  Composer Paul Cardall brings us a traditional and classical approach to Christmas music, with his majestic and sweeping orchestral sound.  He also has three special guest vocalists in Grammy-winner CeCe Winans (“O Holy NIght”), Australian Broadway star Patrice Tipoki (“Son of God”) and award-winning singer-songwriter Audrey Assad (“In the Bleak Midwinter”).  With these group of songs, you can’t help getting into the Christmas spirit with a soundtrack that will be perfect for all your holiday parties and get-togethers.  Stand-out performances on “In the Bleak Midwinter” and “O Holy Night,” which are sure to become some of your favorite holiday songs.

Recommendation:  This is one of the best we’ve ever heard, and belongs in your holiday collection. Get it right away!

Before we review our final two albums, we wanted to share a couple of Christmas songs that we received this year.  First up is Cherrill Rae, who updates the classic pop song “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” into a modern-day sweeping standard.

Our second single is from Charlie Milliken, who takes it from soulful to country with his beautifully written and performed “Season.”

Artist Name:  Redhead Express/PaperDolls Band

Album Name:  Christmastime

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Christmas (Country)

Track Listing:  1.  Away in a Manger; 2.  Carol Medley; 3.  God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen; 4.  Holidaze; 5.  Love is Christmas; 6.  Mary did you Know; 7.  O Holy Night

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The four sisters that encompass Redhead Express have made a name for themselves with their spectacular harmonies and brilliant musicianship, including guitar, violin, banjo and stand up bass.  On their first holiday album, they turn these well-known and loved Christmas songs into bluegrass/country classics.  They also bring a couple of new songs to the table to give us an even better holiday treat.  On “Carol Medley,” they add in the equally wonderful voices of their family to round out the sound before introducing the more pop/rock sound of their new project, the PaperDolls Band, on “God Rest ye Merry Gentlemen.”  They follow this up with the amazing original “Holidaze” and an uplifting bluegrass cover of Sara Bareilles‘ “Love is Christmas.”  They close out this brilliant collection with their holiday gift from last year, “Mary Did You Know,” and the classic “O Holy Night.”

Recommendation:  If you love harmonies and great music, then this is the holiday album for you.  Drop what you’re doing and Get it now!

Artist Name:  The Humming Bards

Album Name:  Holy Common Ground

Label:  JamCat Records

Genre:  Christmas (Pop/Rock)

Track Listing:  1.  Christmas in the Ordinary; 2.  December Song; 3.  Prayer for Everyone; 4.  Christmas Is; 5.  For Auld Lang Syne

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Multiple LA Music Critic Award winning and Blue Élan Records artist Cindy Alexander joins with country superstar songwriter Kevin Fisher to form this amazing new group.  What started out as a friendship and writing collaboration has blossomed into a special holiday EP featuring three new songs by the duo, as well as one by Fisher (“Christmas Is”) and the other by Alexander and her long time musical partner Dave Darling (“For Auld Lang Syne”).  The combination of their voices is nothing short of spectacular, and the chemistry is palpable.  This one will quickly become a treasured favorite, and deserves to be put on repeat.

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – you simply must Get it and play it again and again.

 

 

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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 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.

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

Get it or forget it – Late Sea, Sule, Rich Krueger, Cindy Alexander, Profligate

Happy Friday – the best way to go into the weekend is with five more artists to check out – here are their reviews.

Artist Name:  Late Sea

Album Name:  The Writers Trilogy

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Hunter; 2.  Ring the Bells; 3.  The Great White; 4.  The Sound of Silence

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  With haunting lyrics and music, New York City’s Late Sea brings us a four-song EP that features a cover of the Simon and Garfunkel classic tune, “The Sound of Silence.”  The three original songs pay homage to writers Frankz Kafka, Paul Celan and Baruch Spinoza, while the songs are intended to be part of a continuing story.  They also created music videos for each track, to further share their artistic vision.  On their own, the music would be great for placement in television and film, especially the first track, “Hunter,” with its electronic keys, airy guitar, haunting lyrics, and a sound that would be great for sci-fi and horror films.    That sound continues with “Ring the Bells,” which reminds us of good circus background music, and “The Great White,” which would be at home in a film noir production.  Last but not least, their cover of “The Sound of Silence” totally reimagines the song, creating a truly haunting version that we think Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel would love.  We really love the trumpet.

Recommendation:  These guys are cutting edge, and deserve your attention.  We recommend you Get their EP.

Artist Name:  Sule

Album Name:  Hold On

Label:  Baby Grove Production

Genre:  Indie Folk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Who do you Burn For; 2.  Love Me; 3.  Drop Your Guns (ft. B.U.); 4.  Keep on Moving; 5.  Long Shadows; 6.  The Outlaw; 7.  All I Need is You; 8.  Hold On; 9.  Hey Hey; 10.  The Ballad of Bad News Brown; 11.  Forgotten Land; 12.  Love Me (Country Swing Bonus Track); 13.  Love Me (French Bonus Track); 14.  Cessez le feu (French ft. B.U.); 15.  Banquet for the Damned

Publicist:  Last Tango Productions

Review:  Wow – what a voice!  Thoroughly enjoy the musicianship on this album from the very first note.  Sule hits the ground running on “Who do you Burn for,” and never lets up through 12 original tracks and three remixes.  Although he considers himself an Indie Folk Rock artist, we believe his music would fit very well into both contemporary Country and Americana genres.  His voice is eerily similar to that of Darius Rucker, both as a solo artist and as the lead singer for Hootie & the Blowfish.  “Love Me” (both the original and country swing versions) has the makings to be a huge smash hit, as does “Drop Your Guns.”  Truthfully, ever song is a winner here, and we don’t believe you will be skipping any of the tracks.  For a change of pace, check out the waltzy feel of “All I Need is You” and the bluesy feel of the title track.  He closes out the record with an amazing rocker “Banquet for the Damned.”  What a trip!

Recommendation:  Another potential greatest albums of 2018 – Get this one as soon as possible!

Artist Name:  Rich Krueger

Album Name:  Life Ain’t That Long

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  A Stoopid Broken Heart; 2.  The Gospel According to Carl; 3.  ’77/17; 4.  A Short one on Life; 5.  Then Jessica Smiled; 6.  Can’t see me in This Light; 7.  Ain’t it so Nice Outside Today; 8.  The Wednesday Boys; 9.  What is it That you Want?; 10.  What we Are; 11.  It’s That Time Again

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  With a sound reminiscent of Cat Stevens and Van Morrison, Rich Krueger shares his well-written lyrics accompanied by impressive musical accompaniment on this impressive full-length album, a follow up to his hit EP Overpass, which was released last year.  Both of the first two tracks, “A Stoopid Broken Heart” and “The Gospel According to Carl” would sound wonderful on your local radio station, and reveal just the tip of the iceberg of talent that Krueger possesses.  Other songs that we really love include “A Short One on Life,” “Then Jessica Smiled” (with its awesome of “It’s a Heartache”), “Ain’t it so Nice Outside Today,” “The Wednesday Boys,” “What we Are,”and “It’s That Time Again.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – Get it today!

Artist Name:  Cindy Alexander

Album Name:  Nowhere to Hide

Label:  Jamcat Records/Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  I See Stars; 2.  Passenger; 3.  4 Hours; 4.  Heels Over Head; 5.  Something to Look Back On; 6.  Everything I Own; 7.  Soul Quake (duet with Janiva Magness); 8.  The Song Will Always Find You; 9.  Idiot Child; 10.  Book of Love; 11,  Wonderful

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  Cindy Alexander has been writing and recording amazing music for almost 20 years.  When we first heard her around 2001 at a Just Plain Folks (indie music community) event, it was very easy to fall in love with her musical skills and ability to make every song sound like it was written just for you.  While we lived in California, we attended nearly every show she did, including four amazing CD release shows.  We were so proud of her when she decided to partner with Kirk Pasich and his new upstart label, Blue Élan Records, and have reviewed and enjoyed all of the music she has made since then.  Her latest effort, Nowhere to Hide, takes the best of her catalog and presents them raw and unrefined – just the way her fans have grown to love.  This album is the pinnacle of Alexander’s career to date, and we could not be more proud to count her as a friend and a muse.  She is the epitome of the perfect indie artist.  Our favorites are “I See Stars,” “4 Hours,” “Heels Over Head,” her amazing cover of “Everything I Own,” her beautiful duet with Grammy-nominated blues artist and labelmate Janiva Magness on “Soul Quake,” “The Song Will Always Find You,” “Idiot Child,” “Book of Love,” and “Wonderful.”

Recommendation:  This is by far the best album of her career.  Don’t wait another minute – Get it Today!

Artist Name:  Profligate

Album Name:  Somewhere Else

Label:  Wharf Cat Records

Genre:  Black Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Somewhere Else; 2.  A Circle; 3.  Enlist; 4.  Lose a Little; 5.  Black Plate; 6.  Jet Black (King of the Road); 7.  Needle in Your Lip

Publicist:  Promo Juke Box

Review:  The music of Profligate is dark, a marriage of electronica, dissonant chords and haunting imagery. not at all what you would normally consider metal.   That is, until about 90 seconds into the second track, and you begin to understand why they consider their music metal.  This album is just a little too dark for our taste, although you can feel the sheer brilliance of the creative process in every song.  Unless you enjoy experimental, electronic or metal, this one will probably not appeal to you.

Recommendation:  This one definitely has limited appeal to the public at large.  If you enjoy dark, brooding, dissonant music, then you will probably like it.  For the rest of us, Forget it.

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

Monday mashup 2018 – vol. 1

Happy Monday.  Time for our first Monday Mashup of 2018, and there’s lots of new stuff for you.  Here we go!

FORMER INDIE ARTIST MILCK CONTINUES HER 2017 SUCCESS

MILCK has continued her myriad of successes as 2017 closes out by being named to two important lists – Buzzfeed‘s “The 17 Biggest Baddass Women of 2017 You Probably Never Heard Of” and Billboard Magazine‘s “The 20 Best Protest Songs of 2017.”  Both of these additions stem from her creation of “Quiet,” which was written as a protest to the Inauguration of President Trump, as well as MILCK’s refusal to not talk about past mistreatment, and ultimately resulted in her being signed to a major label.  That song was considered to be the #1 protest song of 2017.  Congrats to MILCK!  We can’t wait to see what she does next.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is the latest single from Jay Katana entitled “When She Dies.”  It is an impressive bit of instrumental guitar magic.  We can hardly wait for the release of his album, which we will review shortly.

Next up is “The L Word,” the latest single from Ellee Ven (featuring Prodeje).  Check it out and get your groove on.  This one will make you want to get up and dance.

Our final single today comes from the band Lesser Pieces.  “Texas” is a grooving and soulful song that should give you a sweet chill time soundtrack.  Let us know what you think.

NEW VIDEOS

Blue Ēlan Records has a pair of artists releasing new videos this week.  First up is brand new artist Polly Baker, who has released the lyric video of her first single, “Scraped Knees.”  We simply love this video and the song, and can’t wait for the upcoming release.

The second artist, Cindy Alexander, has released the official video for her song “Book of Love,” from her just-released Nowhere to Hide album.  This song is simply beautiful and is acoustically driven, as are all the songs on the new album.  Enjoy!

Last but not least is the latest from perennial LA Music Critic Award winners The Spider Accomplice.  They released their latest video “Swallow” on Christmas Day, and it was the best present we received.  Let’s rock out with TSA!

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 44

And we’re back!  After 19 emotionally charged days, we’re back in Montana and ready to rock!  Although the circumstances were not the best, the time spent with family these past two plus weeks was worth the pain.  So much has been going on in the indie music world during our time away.  Here are some of the latest happenings.  Enjoy our holiday edition.

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS TO SUPPORT ALLIANCE FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS

Blue Élan Records has released its annual Christmas album, featuring such Indie Voice Blog favorites as Cindy Alexander, Chelsea Williams, SEE, Rusty Young, Janiva Magness, Janey Street and Jack Tempchin, among others.  Please buy a copy today and help them support the Alliance for Children’s Rights.  All proceeds are being donated to the Alliance.

CHELSEA WILLIAMS LOVES CHRISTMAS

Check out her lyric video for “Peppermints and Mistletoe.”  We think it will put you in the mood.

JERAD FINCK WANTS A WHITE CHRISTMAS

Spokane native Jerad Finck has released a Christmas single, and is making it available for anyone to download.  Check it out below and head to SoundCloud if you want a free download.

https://soundcloud.com/jeradfinck/white-christmas-jerad-finck

KATE STEINWAY RELEASES VIDEO FOR “WHITE CHRISTMAS”

We recently discovered Kate Steinway when she was the featured artist at Songwriters at Play in Paso Robles.  Check out her lovely video for “White Christmas.”

PAM TAYLOR WANTS TO GET IT ON FOR CHRISTMAS

Blues artist Pam Taylor is ready to rock your Christmas season with a little bit of naughtiness.  Check out her new single and see what we mean.

ECHOSMITH SHARES THEIR CHRISTMAS YULE LOG

Indie darlings Echosmith have a Christmas EP, which they are sharing in their annual Yule Log video.  Check it out.

REBEL POP PRINCESS KATIE COSTELLO NEEDS A HOLIDAY

Here’s a new one from one of Indie Voice Blog’s favorite artists, Katie Costello.  Enjoy the holidays.

Here’s hoping you have a wonderful Christmas and a happy holiday season!

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 41 (Updated)

It has been snowing every day since I returned from tour, although much of it has melted when the thermometer reaches the upper 30’s.  It is a beautiful reminder that we are headed into the end of 2017, which has provided a plethora of great indie music.  Just a few more weeks until Thanksgiving and then a few more until Christmas and before you know it, we’ll be announcing the nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2017.  We have definitely got our work cut out for us this time, as the quality and quantity of submissions are some of the best we have ever seen.   We can’t wait to share our nominations with you.  Until then, check out what’s currently happening in the indie music community.

INDIE ARTISTS PARTICIPATE IN SHOWCASES

This past weekend several of our favorite indie acts participated in showcases.  Fan Favorite winner FlecHaus took part in Austin Strong, along with Of Sea and Stone and Deer Fellow, at the Sidewinder in Austin, Texas on November 2.  Meanwhile, back in California, Floating Records hosted its “Fall Revue 2017,” featuring LA Music Critic Award nominee Jeffrey Halford & the Healers, as well as Marble Party and  Graham Guest on November 4 at the Throckmorton Theatre in Mill Valley.  Thanks to publicist Doug Deutsch for sharing.

BLAKE MORGAN HOSTS TRACY BONHAM

Blake Morgan has had an artist residence at Rockwood Music Hall for quite some time.  This month he will host Tracy Bonham on Rockwood’s Stage 3 on November 15.  If you are in New York City,  you might just want to grab tickets for this show – grab your tickets soon cause this series has consistently sold out.

JACK TEMPCHIN CELEBRATES 45th ANNIVERSARY OF “PEACEFUL EASY FEELING”

Blue Élan Records artist and former Eagles hit songwriter Jack Tempchin has scheduled a trio of local Los Angeles shows to celebrate the 45th anniversary of one of his biggest hits, “Peaceful Easy Feeling,” which he co-wrote with Glenn Frey.  The first one is scheduled for November 10 at Carruth Cellars in Solana Beach.  Labelmate Cindy Alexander will open this show.  Next will be a stop at the world famous McCabe’s Guitar Shop in Santa Monica on November 26.  Another labelmate, Chelsea Williams, will open this show.  His final stop will be at Mozambique in Laguna Beach on December 2.

MARINA V TO CELEBRATE CD RELEASE

Multiple LA Music Critic Award winner Marina V, recently returned from a tour of Germany and Moscow, will celebrate the release of her latest CD, Born to the Stars, with a show and party at the amazing Three Clubs on Sunday, November 12.  Tickets are half-off if purchased in advance on her website.  This is one show you don’t want to miss.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is blue-eyed soul singer Ashleigh Watson, with her new single “Little Love.”  We love the sound of this song, and look forward to hearing more from Ms. Watson.  We think she’s got a great vibe that will last for a long time.

Next is “Train to Nowhere,” a sure-to-be Americana classic song from The Sound of Ghosts.  This one has everything you love in a great Americana song – great lyrics, vocals, fiddle and even some amazing horns.  Let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from Tim Maiden, with his beautiful song “So Far Gone,” a trip hop, electronic, R&B masterpiece.  Enjoy this one.

NEW VIDEOS

LA-based alt-rockers Satellite Citi bring us their latest music video for “Undead.”  It’s got great guitar riffs and a stunning visual story that brings the song to life.   Video game lovers – this one is for you!  Please let us know what you think.

Next up is a great lyric video from The Rebel Light for their song, “Where did all the Love Go?”  We are constantly amazed at the creativity in the indie music community, and think this one is a hit.

Our final music video for this week comes from Elizabeth and the Catapult, which we recently reviewed in our Get it or Forget it series.  Here is their video for “Ambrosia.”  Enjoy your week!

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Reviews Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2017: Vol 8

Happy Presidents Day.  Hope you’re all having a great day as we launch into our eighth edition of the Monday Mashup for 2017.

Indie artists have been hard at work, acting as the voice of our generation.  In particular, artists are speaking out about the current political tensions, as well as standing with causes that have become near and dear to many hearts.  Let’s see what’s happening this week.

Trapdoor Social stands with Standing Rock

Local Los Angeles group Trapdoor Social has released an official music video for their song “Never Stop Listening” that supports the ongoing struggle between the United States and DAPL and the Native American Standing Rock tribe.  The cinematography is breathless and the message is the heart of the video.  Check it out and let us know where you stand on this issue.

Here’s what Trapdoor Social and songwriter Skylar Funk had to say about the video:

“Last fall I helped organize a donation drive and trip up to North Dakota from LA to support the water protectors in the Oceti Sakowin camp, at the center of the Dakota Access Pipeline protests. We spent a week there working in construction, in the kitchens, chopping wood and shoveling snow, and felt incredibly welcomed and honored for the chance to participate in something so powerful and historic.


One thing they asked of us in orientation was to “Bring It Home” – to share what we learned at camp and to make sure folks back in the communities we’d return to were aware that the struggle to protect that land and water continues. Of course with the recent executive order, the challenge is even more urgent… So we created a video about the people we met at camp paired up with a song I wrote and released with Trapdoor Social last year to share what we saw and hopefully inspire more action.” – Skylar Funk

The video was shot by acclaimed director Alexandra Velasco.

Blue Élan Records artists release new music videos

Two of the artists signed to Blue Élan Records have new music videos.

The first, See, released a live acoustic version of her song “Closed Eyes Open” last Monday.  Her smoky and heavenly voice brings back memories of a cross between Stevie Nicks and Adele, and will serve this up and coming artist well.  Her debut EP, Ties, was released last July, and the debut single, “Potions” has received more than three million hits.  This is definitely an artist to put on your radar, because we firmly believe she will soon be a household name as she skyrockets to the top of the charts.  Let us know what you think.

The second is Cindy Alexander, one of the strongest advocates for indie music in Los Angeles.  This official music video, which is debuting today on YouTube, is for her song “Deep Waters,” the title track of her latest album.  The song was co-written and produced by long-time legendary musician Colin Devlin, and is a powerful vision.  We love the cinematography and more importantly, the message, which is a beacon of hope for our troubled times.  Let us know what you think of this gem.

 

Alexander is also preparing to hit the road this summer, using the Road Nation program to plan her tour.  This amazing program allows fans to choose the itinerary, and allows Alexander to support cancer research, a cause near to her heart since she is a cancer survivor.  Check out her campaign and bring her to your town this summer.

The Thrillseekers and Shannon Hurley release new video

Last but certainly not least this week is the latest video from the ongoing collaboration between The Thrillseekers and indie guru Shannon Hurley (one-half of the award-winning band Lovers & Poets).  We think you’ll love the upbeat message and sound of “Stay Here with Me.”  Let us know what you think.

That’s it for this week.  Gonna be a busy one with volunteering for the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival here in Missoula.  If you have the time, definitely check it out.  Keep those emails and music referrals coming.

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Monday Mashup

Monday Mashup 2017: Vol. 2

Welcome to week two of 2017!  We’ve gotten almost a foot of snow in the past 24 hours, but at least the thermometer has returned to positive numbers.  Hope you’re all ready to get out and support indie music.  Here’s the latest news:

NAMM INVADES SOCAL

The NAMM Show invades Anaheim for its annual January visit, opening to the press on January 18 and to the attendees January 19-22.  The event is NOT open to the public, but thanks to the hotels outside the Anaheim Convention Center, the public can attend some of the musical performances put on by attendees.  For a look at this year’s schedule, click here.  If you are an indie musician and are playing at NAMM, please let us know so we can publish your schedule next Monday.  We attended the convention for many years until we moved to Montana, and hope to get back there soon.

THE WOMEN’S INTERNATIONAL MUSIC NETWORK PRESENT THEIR ANNUAL SHE ROCKS AWARDS

This year’s She Rocks Awards will be handed out in a ceremony on January 20 at this year’s NAMM Show.    This is the fifth year of the awards, and this year’s recipients will include  Lita Ford, Shirley Manson, Esperanza Spaulding, Monique Boyer of M.A.C Cosmetics, Rebecca Eaddy of Roland Corporation, Beverly Fowler of PRS Guitars, LA radio personality Lisa Foxx, Charyn Harris of A Place Called Home, Karrie Keyes of Soundgirls & sound engineer for Pearl Jam, Tracy Leenman of Musical Innovations, Dani Markman of Disney Music Group, and Leanne Summers of Los Angeles Women in Music.   The event will be hosted by KTTV Fox 11’s own Christine Devine.

JAMEY GESTON TO RELEASE NEW SINGLE

Speaking of NAMM, Geston has been playing NAMM since she was a teenager, and is releasing her new single, “Malibu,” to coincide with next week’s convention.  We have previewed the single, and it is HOT.  We think you’ll like it a lot.

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS ARTISTS TO PLAY AT HOTEL CAFE

On January 22, the Hotel Café will play host to two of the premiere artists from Blue Élan Records:  former Eagles songwriter Jack Tempchin and Cindy Alexander, who will open with a solo acoustic show at 7 p.m.  Tempchin is performing a residency on the intimate Second Stage, and had Grammy-nominee Janiva Magness as well as Chelsea Williams open for him last night.  Don’t miss this opportunity to see and hear some of the best music LA has to offer, and catch the rest of Tempchin’s January residency at Hotel Café.

Have a wonderful week.  We can’t wait to announce the winners of the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2016, and be ready for a BIG ANNOUNCEMENT in the very near future about a special event happening in LA in June.  Until then . . .

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup

Monday Mashup: what’s happening in the indie world?

Welcome to our third installment of Monday Mashup.  The year is drawing to a close and indie musicians are as busy as ever.  The LA Music Critic Awards are on the horizon and this one appears to be one of the strongest ones we’ve seen in recent memory.  If you have released an album, EP, single or video since July 1, or plan to release one before December 31, please contact us so we can consider it for one of the awards.  In addition, we will have some great news to share in January regarding the Awards.  You don’t want to miss that announcement, so make sure you’re subscribed to our blog.

Jerad Finck wins grand prize in US Songwriting Competition

We reported last Monday that Jerad Finck had won the Best Pop Song in the annual US Songwriting Competition for his title track to his latest album, Criminal.  We have since learned that he also won the overall Grand Prize for the best song of 2016.  We are so proud to have introduced you to this amazing artist, and look forward to seeing what comes next.  Finck is a client of Ue3 Promotions.  Congratulations to you both.

Teen sensation Meresha releases new single “Together”

Meresha has released a new single.  According to Meresha, “In today’s world, we can’t let ourselves be divided because of our skin color, national background, religious practice, sexual preference or other beliefs.”  We wholeheartedly agree.  We think this song is great in many ways, and should be a part of your daily dose of healthy music.  Meresha is another client of Ue3 Promotions.  Download her song on iTunes or Google Play.

LA Music Critic Award winner Rod Melancon scheduled to play Hotel Café

Americana artist Rod Melancon, a two-time LA Music Critic Award winner will be playing a special show at the world famous Hotel Café in Los Angeles on Saturday, December 10.  He will be performing at 11 p.m. after the set by The Vegabonds.  Melancon is signed to Blue Élan Records and is a proud client of MAD Ink PR.  We only wish we could be in LA next weekend for this show.

Blue Élan Records releases A Blue Élan Christmas

LA Music Critic Award winner Cindy Alexander is among the artists with singles on the new Christmas release from her label, Blue Élan Records.  Check out her cover of the Dave Matthews Band’s “Christmas Song” below:

https://soundcloud.com/cindyalexander-me/christmas-song?utm_source=soundcloud&utm_campaign=share&utm_medium=facebook

Video Releases

Red Boot PR client Lucy Woodward has released a video for her hit single “Live Live Live.”  We think you’ll agree this is an amazing song and an even more amazing video.  Check her out.

Multi LA Music Critic Awards winning trio The Spider Accomplice has released the latest in their video series supporting their album Los Angeles:  The Abduction.  Check out their video for “You Still Lie.”  We think you will see why this blog and LA Music Critic are so in love with these indie rockers.

 

That’s it for this week.  Please let us know if you have any news you want us to share.  Until next Monday . . .