Tag: Get it or Forget it

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews Women in Entertainment

Get it or forget it – Ponderosa Grove launches The Debut

cover art by Matthias Petsche

It’s New Music Friday, and we are pleased to bring you a new Get it or Forget it of an amazing new band that features one of our long time friends in the indie music world – Candace Devine.

For those of you who don’t know, I spent quite a few years working in the music business as a publicist and manager.  One of the artists that I used to manage was Devine, who I combined with another long-time friend, Dave Yaden, to form David and Devine.  Twelve years ago this month we launched them with a tour of NYC and the east coast.

Devine went on to get married, move to Prescott, Arizona and start a family.  She has now hooked up with Johan Glidden and Drew Hall to form Ponderosa Grove, and we couldn’t be more impressed with their debut album.

Artist Name:   Ponderosa Grove

Album Name:  The Debut

Label:  Farasi Records

Genre:  Folk/Americana

Track Listing: 1.  Slowing Down in Real Time 2.  Freedom Ride; 3.  Waterline; 4.  It Never Rains; 5.  Til Tomorrow; 6.  Save my Soul; 7.  You Got Me; 8.  One Seat; 9.  Love; 10.  Holding me Back; 11. Into the Blue

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Every so often a new band hits the market that stops you in your tracks and makes you take notice.  The last band that stopped me was Sugarland with the release of their debut album Twice the Speed of Life . . . until today.  This amazing new album has everything that propelled Sugarland to super-stardom, including great songwriting, impeccable musicianship, and a powerhouse female lead vocalist.

Ponderosa Grove features Devine on lead vocals, sharing the mic with Hall on guitar/vocals and Glidden on guitar/violin/vocals.  They are joined by Cosimo Bohrman on bass, Shawnee Snaketail on keys/synthesizer, Kenneth Crouch on organ/Wurlitzer, Bryan Taylor on drums/percussion, Steph Griffin on trumpet, Paul Ruffner on saxophone, and Vince Porter on tuba/trombone.  Devine also wrote or co-wrote 10 of the 11 tracks, which were produced by Dylan Ludwig and mastered by Hans DeKline.

There is not a weak song on the album, and we wouldn’t be surprised to hear quite a few of them released as singles.  Although the vibe of the album is folk/Americana, there are subtle hints of R&B, jazz and blues, which gives the band a great cross-over window of opportunity.   We do love this entire album, but the tunes that grabbed our attention the most were “Slowing Down in Real Life,” “Waterline” (with obvious inspiration from Fleetwood Mac), the powerful “Save my Soul,” the soulful ballads “You Got Me” and “Into the Blue”, the jazzy “Love” and “Holding me Back.”

Recommendation:  Drop whatever you’re doing and go get this one NOW!!  If you’re lucky enough to be in Prescott, Arizona, they’re celebrating tonight with a Record Release show at Downtown Square at 6:45 p.m.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews

Get it or forget it – 2020 vol 1

It’s been a while since our last edition of Get it or Forget it, and we wanted to ease back in with a few of our favorite artists who have all been busy during this pandemic.  We hope you like what you read, and will check out these amazing artists.  We hope to make this a regular weekly feature, but that will depend on when our work schedule becomes more solid.  At any rate, here we go.

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Artist Name:  Emily Zuzik

Album Name:  Torch & Trouble

Label:  Head Bitch Music and Maenades Music

Genre:  Americana

Release Date:  August 28, 2020

Track Listing:  1.  Stay Wild, 2.  Get it Right, 3.  Chinese Food and Donuts, 4.  Trouble, 5.  Magic, 6.  Shadows, 7.  All That Love, 8.  Wild Mustangs Across the Great Plains, 9.  Embers, 10.  The Band Played On

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Emily Zuzik has been one of the leading voices in the resurgence of the Los Angeles Americana music scene with her unmistakable voice and incredibly well-written songs.  Her latest, Torch & Trouble, sets the bar high and is truly her best effort to date.  The album is skillfully produced by Ted Russell Kamp, the amazing country bass player who is a huge part of the success of every artist he works with, including Shooter Jennings, Manda Mosher, Tanya Tucker and Zuzik.   Among the amazing supporting musicians on the project are Christopher Allis on drums, Brian Whelan on Hammond organ and guitar, Kamp on bass, and John Schreffler on guitar.

Zuzik wrote or co-wrote nine of the ten songs on the album, hits the ground running with the first track, “Stay Wild,” and never slows down as she delivers memorable song after memorable song.  Although there are no weak songs on the entire album, our favorites include “Stay Wild,” “Get it Right,” the rocking “Trouble,” the Chris Isaak-like “Shadows,” (a Yo La Tengo cover), the romantic waltz “All That Love,” the epic story of “Wild Mustangs Across the Great Plains,” and “Embers,” which features the vocals of Kamp and Zuzik in a stirring duet.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, and get this one like your life depends on it.

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Artist Name:  Tawny Ellis

Album Name:  Love Life

Label:  Music Building Records

Genre:  Americana

Release Date:  July 24, 2020

Track Listing:  1.  Love Life, 2.  Moon Shine, 3.  Pretend Love, 4.  No More, 5.  Deep end of Love, 6.  Spirit of Love, 7.  I Believe, 8.  Powers That Be, 9.  Daddy, 10.  Dirty Work

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Tawny Ellis is proof of the benefit of being in the right place at the right time, and her relentless pursuit of perfection is evident in every song on this true masterpiece, which took three years to complete.  The artists who worked with her on this project sound like a “Who’s Who” of some of the finest musicians in the industry, including Jesse Siebenberg (Lukas Nelson, Lissie), Ted Russell Kamp (Shooter Jennings, Tanya Tucker), Gio Loria (Jack Johnson) and Kaitlin Wolfberg (H.E.R.).  Their contributions give Ellis’ sound an eclectic vibe that makes the music accessible to fans of all genres.  Among the best cuts are “Love Life,” “Pretend Love,” the rocking “No More,” the mournful “Deep End of Love,” the stirring “I Believe,” and the haunting and iconic “Powers That Be.”

Recommendation:  This one is a no-brainer – your music library NEEDS it and so do you.

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Artist Name:  Ted Russell Kamp

Album Name:  Down in the Den

Label:  PoMo Records

Genre:  Roots/Rock/Americana

Release Date:  July 24, 2020

Track Listing:  1.  Home Sweet Hollywood (ft Shooter Jennings), 2.  Have Some Faith, 3.  Waste a Little Time With Me, 4.  Stick With Me, 5.  Hold On (ft Gordy Quist), 6.  Hobo Nickel, 7.  Rainy Day Valentine, 8.  The Good Part, 9.  Word for Word (ft Sarahh Gayle Meech), 10. My Turn to Cry, 11.  Only Son (ft Shane Alexander), 12.  Every Little Thing you Need, 13. Saint Severin, 14.  Take my Song With You (ft Kirsten Proffit)

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  This article would not be complete without a review of the common denominator between Emily Zuzik and Tawny Ellis, the legendary musician himself, Ted Russell Kamp.  The album was recorded in Kamp’s home studio, affectionately called “The Den,” and features several of the amazing artists that Kamp has worked with, including Shooter Jennings, Gordy Quist, Sarah Gayle Meech, Shane Alexander and Kirsten Proffit.  We have already featured the first two songs on the album in our Monday Mashup series, and they are just the tip of the iceberg of the treasures contained in this 14-song collection.  We really love the swinging feel of “Waste a Little Time With Me,” the classic country sound of “Stick With Me,” the New Orleans Jazz-infused “Hobo Nickel,”  the two-stepping sound of “The Good Part,” the Dwight Yoakum-inspired strains of “My Turn to Cry,” the righteous country ballad “Saint Severin,” and the sweet duet “Take my Song With You.”

Recommendation:  No music library is complete without this one, so go out and get it ASAP.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – new music vol. 5

We’ve got a rare free morning, so we thought we’d share some reviews.  Here are five new releases that we think you’ll like, so grab your coffee and get ready to meet some new artists.

Artist Name:  Abby Posner

Album Name:  Return

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Roots/Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Return Home; 2.  Cooking Wine; 3.  Heavy; 4.  Snow

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Listening to Abby Posner is like finding that rare vintage book in the bargain bin of the thrift store – its value isn’t determined by its surroundings.  Of all the indie artists we have encountered during our 20+ years supporting music, she is one of the most talented and unique, and never fails to deliver.  Adept on every instrument she plays, she weaves her incredible life into every note and word.  She is supported on this project by The Queertet (one of the best string sections we have ever heard), and they add so much to her sound.  Our only regret is that this long-awaiting EP is only four songs, but we know that she will continue to provide us with amazing music.  We shared the video for her first single, “Return Home,” last month and we are here to tell you that the other three songs are just as amazing.  We love the acoustic sound and will keep this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  This is the best EP released in 2019, and absolutely MUST be in your collection.  Go get it now!

Artist Name:  Tombstones in Their Eyes

Album Name:  Maybe Someday

Label:  Somewherecold Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Open Skies; 2.  Maybe Someday; 3.  I Want You; 4.  Today; 5.  Down in the Dirt; 6.  The Demon; 7.  Behind my Mind; 8.  The One; 9.  I Believe; 10.  I Can’t Feel it Anymore; 11.  Up and Down; 12.  Dreams

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion

Review:  This LA band has drawn comparisons to Pink Floyd, and they are well-earned.  Their sound is obviously influenced by that classic rock band, although they have updated and modernized the sound.  These are songs that stop you in your tracks, mesmerizing your ears with that classic rock sound while the words tantalize and entice your mind.  This is a band that is going places, and they show that with a collection of songs that hit the target dead-on.  Put this one on repeat and chill.

Recommendation:  If you love classic rock and especially Pink Floyd, then this one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  BINX

Album Name:  Bee From Mars

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Phantom; 2.  Neighbors; 3.  Love on Mars; 4.  Milk; 5.  Anthem; 6.  Shock Waves; 7.  How do you Like Your Eggs?; 8.  Crying in California; 9.  Space DJ; 10.  The Hills

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  We met BINX at last year’s LA Music Critic Awards showcase, and were immediately enamored with her personality and style, which is becoming just as iconic around Hollywood as Evangeline‘s pink Corvette.  We shared her first single, “Milk,” last month.  Now, with the release of her latest album, she shows that she is not just stunning stylistically, but is also incredibly talented and deserving of heavy rotation on radio and inclusion in the dance tracks of every intelligent DJ.  She is the natural successor to early Lady Gaga, with a style that sets her apart from so many indie artists.  In addition, her songs are better than so much of the current Top 40 songs, and will immediately capture your attention and affection.  You will want to hear them over and over again, and we strongly encourage you to put this one on repeat.  South Africa’s loss is truly America’s gain.

Recommendation:  Drop everything and go get this one.

Artist Name:  Jack Broadbent

Album Name:  Moonshine Blue

Label:  Creature Records

Genre:  Folk/Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Moonshine Blue; 2.  If; 3.  The Other Side; 4.  Everytime I Drown; 5.  This Town; 6.  The Lucky Ones; 7.  Tonight; 8.  Wishing Well; 9.  Too Late

Publicist:  E2PR

Review:  We have shared a pair of his singles with you (“Wishing Well” and “Everytime I Drown“), and believe this British import is about to make a huge impact on the American music scene.  He is already getting praise from the jazz/blues festival circuit for his incredible slide guitar work, and we think every accolade is well deserved.  If you love sax, then you will be blown away by “The Other Side.”  But don’t stop there – enjoy every track of this amazing album.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your attention – grab it!

Artist Name:  Katy Hobgood Ray featuring Dave Ray

Album Name:  I Dream of Water

Label:  Out of the Past Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Lollie Bottoms; 2.  Washed Away; 3.  Oh Devil; 4.  I Dream of Water; 5.  House Divided; 6.  Dirty Water; 7.  Little Children’s Blues; 8.  Des Allemands; 9.  That Really Matters; 10.  Kings, Queens, and Jesters

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  From the first notes of “Lollie Bottoms,” you can feel the influence of the Big Easy on the down-home sound of this music, which would make the perfect soundtrack for an episode of NCIS: New Orleans, or any other show or movie about the south.  These songs create a truly relaxing atmosphere – all that’s missing is the beer and crayfish.  This album should be enjoyed from start to finish and then just let it play over and over again while you kick back and relax.

Recommendation:  The perfect background for a relaxing weekend – get it and enjoy it today.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday

Get it or forget it – New Music Friday vol. 4

It’s been a while since we had a Friday morning off, so we are celebrating by sharing these great new albums with you.  They are all dropping today.

Artist Name:  The Skullers

Album Name:  Freight Trains and Party Games

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Modern Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Still Life; 2.  She Denies Herself the Things she Loves; 3.  Convenient; 4.  Out of the Garden; 5.  Brooklyn Girls; 6.  She Denies Herself the Things she Loves (at the record booth)

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  The Skullers have hit the big time with the release of their latest EP.  It mixes elements of Americana/Rockabilly with modern rock to create a unique sound that is worthy of repeated listens.  We last reviewed them in March 2018, and they have continued to make great strides in their artistic growth.  This time around they have evolved from their blues rock origins to become a band worthy of heavy rotation on Top 40 radio.  We love every song on this EP, especially “She Denies Herself the Things she Loves” and “Out of the Garden.”

Recommendation:  Don’t hesitate to jump on this wagon – go Get this one today!

Artist Name:  Fox Stevenson

Album Name:  Killjoy

Label:  Anti-Fragile Music

Genre:  Funky Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Out my Head; 2.  Killjoy; 3.  Broken Man; 4.  Okay; 5.  Cavalier; 6.  Dreamland; 7.  California; 8.  Go Like; 9.  Use Me; 10.  Hold Steady; 11.  All Night; 12.  Perfect Lie; 13.  Headlights

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  Producer Fox Stevenson’s debut album Killjoy is a work of sonic beauty, with a richness that many seasoned artists don’t have.  It is funky, cool, fresh and worthy of repeated listens.  These songs are upbeat and perfect for keeping you in sync on your daily activities.  We think this album will launch his career out of the UK and into the rest of the world.  He hits the ground running with “Out my Head” and never lets up.  This one is a surefire winner.

Recommendation:  If you love fresh new music, this one should be first on your list – go Get it!

Artist Name:  Wildlife

Album Name:  Take the Light With You

Label:  Culvert Music

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Wasted; 2.  Broken Magic; 3.  Cut-off; 4.  No Control; 5.  All in Black; 6.  Follower (LaLa); 7.  Euphoria; 8.  Whatever, Memory; 9.  Dance Now; 10.  House in the Shadows

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Toronto’s Wildlife is another band on the rise.  We debuted their single “No Control” in our Ten Great Singles of September 2019 article, and the rest of the album is even better. These lads have been influenced by the great acts of the 80s and 90s, like Duran Duran, Depeche Mode, U2 and more.  Even though they have been together for 10 years, they bring a new freshness to the power rock of those acts and set themselves up to be one of the best acts of 2019.

Recommendation:  What are you waiting for?  Go Get it!

Artist Name:  David J

Album Name:  Missive to an Angel From the Halls of Infamy and Allure

Label:   Glass Modern Records

Genre:

Track Listing:  1.  Mosaic; 2.  Blue Eyes in the Green Room; 3.  Baudelaire; 4.  (I Don’t Want to Destroy) Our Beautiful Thing; 5.  Lovelorn; 6.  Clandestine Valentine; 7.  Of Purgatory and Perfume; 8.  Migena and the Frozen Roses; 9.  No Floods can Drown; 10.  Pre-Existing Condition; 11.  Copper Level 7; 12.  (I Walked Away From) The Girl in Yellow; 13.  Best Western Blues; 14.  Missive to an Angel From the Halls of Infamy and Allure; 15.  The Auteur (Redux/The Scarlet’s Cut); 16.  I Have Only Silence Now

Publicist:  Shameless Promotion PR

Review:  What do you get when you cross Tom Waits/Bob Dylan with Leonard Cohen/Andrew Lloyd Webber?  You get David J’s latest eerie and invigorating new album.  These songs could easily be made into an amazing musical and should be performed in major concert halls.  This soundtrack is worthy of your repeated listens and could easily become a daily habit.  We truly cannot get enough of these songs, and will be listening over and over again.  We recommend you do the same.

Recommendation:  This one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  Doug Duffey and BADD

Album Name:  Play the Blues

Label:  Out of the Past Music

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  The Things we Used to Do; 2.  Evil; 3.  Big Easy Street Blues; 4.  Have you Ever?; 5.  Drink it on Down; 6.  My Drivin’ Wheel; 7.  Talk of the Town; 8.  You Got That Somethin’; 9.  A Memory Left to Lose

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  There are so many styles of the blues, from Delta to Chicago to Memphis, and no one can play them all better than Doug Duffey and BADD.  They combine elements from all these blues styles into their own unique blend that highlights the blues and transforms it into a celebration of life, not just a wailing sound of agony.  They even add some jazzy grooves into their song “Evil,” further separating themselves from the rest of the blues genre.

Recommendation:  If you love the blues or just plain great music, then add this one to your collection today.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – New Music Friday vol. 2

We made it through another week, and have some great rewards for you, including the latest by a recent Grammy-nominated artist who is covering the library of a Grammy legend.  Let’s get this weekend started.

Artist Name:  Sarah Lightman

Album Name:  Interlude

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Interlude; 2.  Let Your Light In; 3.  Graduating 4.  Alright; 5.  Until I see you Again; 6.  Shell; 7.  I Can’t Be; 8.  So Good; 9.  Home; 10.  We are the Same; 11.  Letter to my Father

Publicist:  Elisa Tapia

Review:  Sarah Lightman came to Los Angeles to be an actress but gave it up to become a singer-songwriter.  If her debut album, Interlude, is any indicate, she made the right choice.  Her songs offer hope and are sung with such a sweet voice that the listener can’t help but be drawn up.  Her music deserves heavy rotation on radio stations nationwide, and her songs should be highly considered for placement in television and film.  We especially love “Graduating,” “Until I See You Again” (with its jazzy undertones and amazing co-vocals from WOLVES), “I Can’t Be,” and “So Good.”  She may have made her start performing on the streets of City Walk, but she’s ready for a larger audience.  Don’t miss this train as it leaves the station for super stardom.

Recommendation:  Definitely RUN out and get this one.

Artist Name:  Jimbo Pap

Album Name:  It can Always get Worse

Label:  Fiesta Red Records

Genre:  California Country/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Submission (Nice Pants); 2.  On my way to the show 3.  Long Kiss Goodbye; 4.  Nothing’s Quite the Same; 5.  Queen of my Lonely Little World; 6.  String of Pearls; 7.  Yard Sale; 8.  Long Time Movin’; 9.  Another Ticket on the Windshield; 10.  It can Always get Worse; 11.  Someone’s Gonna Love me Again

Publicist:  Devious Planet

Review: A recent edition to the Los Angeles Americana scene, Jimbo Pap provides the perfect tongue-in-cheek approach to incorporating their unique blend of country with a folk-style message about current events.  Their voices create incredible harmonies that deliver their message without offending the listener.  You will quickly find yourself tapping along to the beat while you process the words, and will leave with a better understanding of what you can do to improve the world around you.  Don’t forget to grab a beer and tool around the dance floor as well.

Recommendation: A brilliant release that deserves a place in your library – go get it!

Artist Name:  Sarah Rogo

Album Name:  Smoke and Water

Label:  Funzalo Records

Genre:  Blues/Roots

Track Listing:  1.  Pieces; 2.  Here Goes Nothing; 3.  Smoke and Water; 4.  Will you Still Love me Tomorrow 5.  Run; 6.  Jolene; 7.  Love and be Loved; 8.  Take me to the Water 9.  Which Wolf; 10.  Voodoo Child

Publicist:  Independent Music Media

Review: Hard to believe it’s been nearly two years since we reviewed an album from Sarah Rogo (Live at Lestats West), which was her first album published by Funzalo Records.  She was signed after meeting them at the Durango Songwriters Expo, one of several up and coming superstars that emerged from the annual affair in Denver, Colorado.  From the first notes of “Pieces,” you can quickly hear her maturity and growth as an artist.  She is the voice of a new generation of blues and roots singers, and we believe she is heading for tremendous success.  Her songs cut to the heart and deliver a touching message, accompanying by Rogo’s mad resonator guitar skills.  This one deserves to be on repeat, especially her beautiful interpretations of the classics “Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow” and “Jolene.”

Recommendation:  One of the best we’ve heard from any Durango alum – run out and don’t stop until you get this one.

Artist Name:  Janiva Magness

Album Name:  Change in the Weather:  Janiva Magness Sings John Fogerty

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Blues Covers

Track Listing:  1.  Change in the Weather; 2.  Lodi (ft Sam Morrow); 3.  Someday Never Comes; 4.  Wrote a Song for Everyone; 5.  Don’t you Wish it Were True (ft Taj Mahal); 6.  Have you Ever Seen the Rain 7.  Bad Moon Rising; 8.  Blueboy; 9.  Fortunate Son; 10.  Deja Vu (All Over Again); 11.  A Hundred and Ten in the Shade; 12.  Lookin’ out my Backdoor

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  As someone who grew up on the music of John Fogerty and Credence Clearwater Revival, it was quite an honor to be asked to review these amazing covers of those songs we grew to love.  Janiva Magness takes her stellar blues skills to turn these songs into instant blues classics, and we are sure that Fogerty would be totally ok with that.  Our favorites include “Lodi,” “Have you Ever Seen the Rain,” “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son,” and “Lookin’ out my Backdoor.”

Recommendation:  If you love Fogerty and the blues, you will simply adore these interpretations.  Run out and get it today!

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Unknown Wednesdays

Get it or forget it – Unknown Wednesdays vol. 2

We started this article more than a week ago, and needed to get it out to you today, even though it’s Friday.  Enjoy these unknowns, who we hope will spark your interest in finding new music.

Artist Name:  Julie Haven

Album Name:  Fool’s Gold

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  See me Cry; 2.  Love and War; 3.  Dust; 4.  Fated

Publicist:  AGD Entertainment

Review:  Julie Haven is an up and coming artist who sings from her heart about love and loss.  Her vocals soar on this short four song EP which introduces listeners to her powerful delivery and excellent songwriting abilities.  Her songs are textbook perfect for placement in television and film, especially for chick flicks and rom-coms.  In addition, these songs deserve heavy rotation on radio, especially college radio.  Hop on this train now – this artist is definitely going place.

Recommendation:  Don’t hesitate – get this one today.

Artist Name:  Creature and the Woods

Album Name:  J Tree

Label:  Blind Owl

Genre:  Folk Psych Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Widows Waltz; 2.  Head Above Water; 3.  Oh Well; 4.  Two Golden Coins

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  This is a band of brothers who have chosen San Diego as their home and recorded this EP in Joshua Tree.  The sound is a throwback to the music of the 60’s (Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix, The Doors) but with a fresh approach that captures the spirit without duplication of the message, although many of those message are still relevant.  The harmonies are exquisite and the guitar riffs would surely pass the “Hendrix test.”  The music deserves radio airplay and should definitely be considered for placement opportunities.  We see great things ahead for this band.

Recommendation:  Definitely worthy of your attention, we highly recommend you get this one.

Artist Name:  Bambi Lee Savage

Album Name:  Berlin-Nashville Express

Label:  Hoof & Antler Records

Genre:  Country/Folk/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Honey; 2.  This Blue Heart; 3.  Get out my Pillow (I’m Comin’ Home); 4.  Demon Alcohol; 5.  Baby Come Back; 6.  I Can’t Count on my Man; 7.  I’ll Have to Leave Town (to get Over You); 8.  Drinker of Gin; 9.  Walk in Love; 10.  Darlin’ (Savannah Remix)

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Americana has a new country twang with folk undertones in Bambi Lee Savage.  Her music brings back that classic country feel with a swinging soundtrack.  Her music has that same feel as Emmylou Harris, and the resulting songs are a welcome addition to the otherwise pop country music of her peers.  She also takes a number of cliches and turns them into thoughtful and well-written songs that bring those old sayings to life.  This one is perfect for your Saturday night dancing as you boot scoot around that floor.

Recommendation:  If you love classic country, this one is a must-have.

Artist Name:  Jon Gindick

Album Name:  Love at the All Night Cafe

Label:  Old Chimney

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  I was Born to Wail; 2.  Feeling her Gone; 3.  Baby’s got the Blues; 4.  The All Night Cafe; 5.  Load me up Baby; 6.  Mississippi Moods; 7.  Happy Wife, Happy Life, Happy Home; 8.  The song I Couldn’t Write; 9.  I Love the Feminine Girl; 10.  Hand Holding Man; 11.  Can’t get That Girl off my Mind; 12.  In the Land of You

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Jon Gindick has to be the best harmonica player in music today.  Not only that, his stories should be part of our musical heritage as they recount the history of American music, keeping the legacy alive.  His form of the blues is unique and most worthy of a place in your musical library.  It is more upbeat and jazzy than most blues songs, but after just one listen it will be obvious that he is inspired and influenced by the early blues giants.   As long as Gindick is around, musical history will never be forgotten.

Recommendation:  If you love American music and respect the history of its development, then this one is a must-have.

 

Artist Name:  Blue Canoe

Album Name:  Overbored

Label:  4000 Holes

Genre:  Classic Rock

Track Listing:  1.  It’s on You; 2.  Sorry Won’t Help; 3.  Kissed me Once; 4.  Cover Me; 5.  Scotch 6.  Her Love to a Bottle 7.  Don’t get Around Much Anymore 8.  Standing in the Cold; 9.  4000 Holes; 10.  My Mistake

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Blue Canoe, composed of Mike May, Greg Kane and Bob Gallagher, bring back classic rock with abandon.  This is the music we grew up on, and they truly capture that feel with their righteous interpretation of the genre.  This is music that was made for parties, and could easily go on repeat for the duration of your good times.  These melodies will stick in your head and you’ll be thinking about them long after the song is over.

Recommendation:  We are adding these guys to our rock essentials library, and highly recommend you do the same.

 

 

 

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Tuesday Treats

Get it or forget it – Tuesday treats vol. 2

Well, the work schedule has finally firmed up and now we can try to get back into a regular publication schedule.  We have some treats for  you today from artists who have already appeared at least once in Indie Voice Blog.  Here is our second edition.

Artist Name:  Katrina Parker

Album Name:  Stars

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt Pop

Track Listing:  1.  I Will Never Leave; 2.  Ring of Fire; 3.  Carry me Away; 4.  Strange World; 5.  Until  you Come Again; 6.  Stars; 7.  Follow Me; 8.  Without You; 9.  Don’t Give it Up

Publicist:  Working Brilliantly

Review:  Our relationship with Katrina Parker goes back nearly 15 years, long before she became a household name with her appearance on NBC‘s The Voice.  Her new album is by far her best work to date, and includes an amazing cover of Johnny Cash‘s classic hit “Ring of Fire” that we guarantee is totally different from anybody’s else’s version.  The other eight songs are all originals and every one deserves massive radio airplay.  Parker is just coming into her own, and we can’t wait to see where her new album takes her.

Recommendation:  Get this one like your life depends on it, and put it on perpetual repeat.

Artist Name:  Lovers and Poets

Album Name:  Sugar High

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Synth Pop/Electronica

Track Listing:  1.  Nevergonnastop; 2.  Barbarella; 3.  Here and Now; 4.  Keep Breaking my Heart; 5.  Sugar High

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Although this one won’t be released until September 20, we just couldn’t wait to share its awesomeness with you.  Lovers & Poets have won numerous LA Music Critic Awards, and their latest is better than anything they have done before.  Shannon & Ben have truly found their stride and deliver five amazing tracks that will make you feel like you just stepped into the 80’s.  These songs are just feel good masterpieces, and we guarantee you’ll want to put them on repeat, especially “Here and Now.”

Recommendation:  If you need a quick pick-me-up, just put this one on repeat – Run out and get it when it is released.

Artist Name:  Greg Laswell

Album Name:  Covers II

Label:  Leg Graswell

Genre:  Cover songs

Track Listing:  1.  Something in my Heart (ft Molly Jenson); 2.  Never let me Down Again (ft Molly Jenson); 3.  A Place Called Home; 4.  Crank; 5.  Lucky Man (ft Molly Jenson); 6.  Without You I’m Nothing; 7.  Love my Way; 8.  Don’t Give Up (ft Molly Jenson

Publicist:  Perpetual Media Relations

Review:  Ten years after the release of Covers, Greg Laswell returns with another set of amazing rock covers of songs from The Verve, PJ Harvey, Depeche Mode, Peter Gabriel, Placebo, The Psychedelic Furs, Catherine Wheel and Röyksopp.  Laswell is assisted on the project by the amazing Molly Jenson, who contributes sweet vocals and harmonies on four of the eight songs.  These songs will haunt you and stay in your mind long after the song has ended.

Recommendation:  Be the first in line on Friday the 13th to get this one when it is released.

Artist Name:  Dudley Taft

Album Name:  Simple Life

Label:  American Blues Artist Group

Genre:  Blues/Americana/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Give me a Song; 2.  Simple Life; 3.  I Can’t Live Without You; 4.  In Your Way 5.  Don’t let Them get Away; 6.  Death by Bliss; 7.  Bombs Away; 8.  If Heartaches Were Nickels; 9.  Never Fade; 10.  Pouring Down; 11.  Shine; 12.  Back to You

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  We featured Dudley Taft’s music video for “Give me a Song” in our Monday Mashup column last month, and immediately fell in love with his raucous guitar and gritty vocals.  The remainder of the album is just as good if not better than that song.  If you love a mix of blues, Americana and good old fashioned rock and roll, then you are going to have a blast listening to all 12 tracks on this album.

Recommendation:  Don’t miss out on this one – it is definitely worthy of being a part of your musical library.

Artist Name:  Walt Weiskopf European Quartet

Album Name:  Worldwide

Label:  Orenda Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Entebbe; 2.  Back in Japan; 3.  Soultrane; 4.  Russian Roulette; 5.  March by Moonlight; 6.  Back in Brazil; 7.  Oceans; 8.  The Pawnbroker; 9.  Scottish Folk Song; 10.  Coat of Arms

Publicist:  SW Marketing

Review:  We met Walt Weiskopf last year when he was performing with Steely Dan, and immediately fell in love with his amazing musicianship.  His European Quartet released an album shortly thereafter and we reviewed it then and are super excited to review their latest album.  Weiskopf is joined in the quartet by Carl Winther, Andreas Lang, and Anders Mogensen.  The album picks up where the last one left off, and is thrilling from the first to the last note.  Put this one on, pour a glass of wine, and chill.  You will truly feel your cares melting away.

Recommendation:  If you love jazz, then this is a must-have addition to your collection.  It sets the standard for modern jazz.

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music New Music Friday Reviews

Get it or forget it – new music Friday vol. 1

It’s finally Friday.  We hope you’ve enjoyed the debuts of our new review series this week, which we are culminating today with New Music Fridays.  We have some great ones that are being released today, including the first album in 18 years for The Rembrandts.  Let’s do this!

Artist Name:  Mark Cameron

Album Name:  On a Roll

Label:  COP Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Trouble Brewin; 2.  On Your way to the Top; 3.  Dirty Biscuit; 4.  Ridin the Rails; 5.  On a Roll; 6.  Dicey; 7.  Next Stop is the Blues; 8.  Where I got you From; 9.  Movin Out; 10.  Back Seat Boogie; 11.  Here we go; 12.  What Lucy Says; 13.  Mojo Shuffle; 14.  Dreams

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Mark Cameron is a gravel-voiced guitar-slinging blues man from Minnesota who has been belting his songs for the past 30 years.  His voice sounds like he’s been living his words, while his guitar stylings would make B.B. King proud to play with him.    This is music you can sink your teeth into, and perfect for that weekend wind-down.  Each song is juicy with the blues, and worthy of multiple listens.  His killer band features Sheri Cameron on saxophone, Scott Lundberg on bass, Dan Schroeder on drums and Rick Miller on harmonica.

Recommendation:  This one definitely belongs in the music library of every serious lover of the blues.  Add it today.

Artist Name:  The Rembrandts

Album Name:  Via Satellite

Label:  Blue Élan Records

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  How Far Would you Go; 2.  Broken Toy; 3.  Me and Fate; 4.  Count on You; 5.  Traveling From Home; 6.  Come to Califor-i-ya; 7.  Now; 8.  Off of the Edge; 9.  You’d Think I’d Know; 10.  On my Own

Publicist:  MAD Ink PR

Review:  We are so overjoyed to share the first new album from The Rembrandts in 18 years.  We teased  you with “How Far would you Go” back in April and “Broken Toy” in May.  Every other song on this album is equally amazing, and we would not be surprised to see them win another Grammy.  We really love both of their singles, as well as “Count on You,” ‘Come to Californ-i-ya,” “Now,” “and You’d Think I’d Know.”  We’re so glad that they kept their promise when they said “I’ll be There for You” – welcome back.

Recommendation:  If you love great pop-rock, then this one is a no-brainer – go get it.

Artist Name:  Claire Courchene

Album Name:  The Happiness of Being Sad

Label:  DoubleMayjah Records

Genre:  Neo-classical

Track Listing:  1.  Insupportable Loneliness; 2.  Flirting with Melancholy; 3.  Strange Impending Doom; 4.  Sweet as an Untimely End; 5.  Escape the Memories; 6.  Atmosphere of Sorrow

Publicist:  DoubleMayjah Records

Review:  Nothing soothes the savage beast like beautiful music, and these tracks prove that old adage.  Claire Courchene is a gifted composer and musician and her music, which is somewhat dark and moody, is still sweet.  These songs are perfect for relaxing and for bedtime, but can also be enjoyed whenever the stresses of the world become too much to bear.  This one is going on repeat.

Recommendation:  If you love to fall asleep to music, or just need to relax from a stressful day, get this one and put it on repeat.

Artist Name:  Jason Hawk Harris

Album Name:  Love and the Dark

Label:  Country/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  The Smoke and the Stars; 2.  Cussing at the Light; 3.  Confused; 4.  Giving Up; 5.  Phantom Limb; 6.  I’m Afraid; 7.  Blessed Interruption; 8.  Red Room Blues; 9.  Grandfather

Publicist:  Bloodshot Records

Review:  Many of you may remember Jason Hawk Harris from his days with The Show Ponies, but he’s been tearing it up as a solo artist since November 2017 after beginning his career as a classically trained composer.  His brand of Americana has all the pain of great country music, from the woeful lyrics to the perfect accompaniment.  So much has happened to him since that debut solo album, and he shares it with us on this new project.  Harris delivers music that stays with you and is not easily forgotten.  He hits home like a punch to the stomach, followed by a full body massage, leaving the listener wiser to the ways of the world.  Believe us when we say you will remember his words long after the songs have ended.

Recommendation:  This is one of our favorite albums of 2019.  Go Get it now!!

Artist Name:  The Atom Age

Album Name:  Cry Til You Die

Label:  Tiger Dream Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Love is a Numbers Game; 2.  We Disappear in the Night; 3.  Never Looking; 4.  Blink Twice; 5.  Walk Through Walls; 6.  Bloodletter; 7.  Lost on Me; 8.  Bad Seas; 9.  When I Crawl Back; 10.  Cry Til You Die

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:  Punk has always been considered to be the energetic form of rock music, until now.  The Atom Age ushers in a new form of indie rock that makes punk music seem like geriatric fodder.  They burst forth from the first note and announce that they have arrived, and their energy is contagious.  One listen to this album and you will be re-energized and ready for anything.  Put this one on whenever you need a lift – it’s better than a gallon of coffee.

Recommendation:  Perk it up and put this one on.  You’ll be glad you did.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Thursday Treats

Get it or forget it – Thursday treats vol. 1

Thanks for checking us out this week.  Since so many of the reviews we do are of artists we’ve previously featured, we are proud to debut the other half of our Treats reviews.  That’s right, you get two Treats every week – Tuesday and Thursday.  Here are today’s delightful quintet.

Artist Name:  Diana Rein

Album Name:  Queen of my Castle

Label:  Gulf Coast Records

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Yes, I Sing the Blues; 2.  Worth; 3.  Walking Away; 4.  The Midnight Line; 5.  Time’s Ticking Away; 6.  Queen of my Castle; 7.  Pure Soul; 8.  One Foot In; 9.  My Love; 10.  It’s You; 11.  In the Chill of the Night; 12.  I Can’t Quit You; 13.  Get Down; 14.  Heat; 15.  Zoe

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  Diana Rein has become the quintessential blues musician, combining incredible guitar riffs with well-crafted songs sung with just the right amount of sass.  She starts the album off with an affirmation of her intent (“Yes, I Sing the Blues”) and then blows us away with her limitless talent and street cred.  Throughout this amazing release she shows the world why she received three LA Music Critic Awards and was recently nominated for three more in the current cycle.  There is no doubt in our minds that she is the female equivalent of BB King, and we are proud to champion this blistering blues guitarist.

Recommendation:  What are you waiting for?  Run out and grab this one today.

Artist Name:  Marty Brown

Album Name:  American Way

Label:  Plowboy Records

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  American Highway; 2.  I’m on a Roll (Better Than it’s Ever Been); 3.  Umbrella Lovers; 4.  Shaking all Over the World; 5.  When the Blues Come Around; 6.  Right out of Left Field; 7.  Kentucky Blues; 8.  Casino Winnebago; 9.  Velvet Chains; 10.  Mona Lisa Smiles

Publicist:  So Much Moore Media

Review:  Marty Brown is a true country troubadour, and his music bridges the gap between classic greatness and modern day country.  He is obviously influenced by such country greats as Vince Gill (“Right out of Left Field”), Alabama (“Umbrella Lovers” and “Shaking all Over the World”) and Sawyer Brown (“I’m on a Roll (Better Than It’s Ever Been)), and provides a modern take on their sound.  This is music that belongs on country radio, and is the perfect soundtrack for your two-stepping honky-tonking evenings.

Recommendation:  If you love great country, then this is the perfect one for you – go get it!

Artist Name:  Kelly’s Lot

Album Name:  Can’t Take my Soul

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues/Americana/Roots

Track Listing:  1.  All I Ever Want is the Blues; 2.  All Hope Ain’t Lost 3.  Alyssa; 4.  Woe is Me; 5.  Safe and Warm; 6.  Rise Up (Léve-Toi); 7.  Broke Myself; 8.  Let it Breathe; 9.  Dirt; 10.  Little Bit of This; 11.  Can’t Take my Soul; 12.  Mon Ami

Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  Kelly Zirbes and her band have been a Southern California staple for the past 25 years, and their 14th album is the true cream of the crop.  Her voice is tailor-made for the blues, and she passionately shares from her heart these blues-infused songs about the state of the world today.  She is truly a modern-day Janis Joplin.  These songs need to be listened to multiple times so you can catch all the nuances of the lyrics and the subtle greatness of the instrumentation.  We promise you that it will be well worth your time.  Even though “All I Want is the Blues,” “All Hope Ain’t Lost,” so “Rise Up”, be “Safe and Warm” and “Let it Breathe” because they “Can’t Take My Soul.”  For an added treat, check out the zydeco sound of “Woe is Me.”

Recommendation:  Run out and get this one.

Artist Name:  Michele D’Amour and the Love Dealers

Album Name:  Heart of Memphis

Label:  Blueskitty Records

Genre:  1.  Another Sleepless Night; 2.  Dirty Pool; 3.  Come on Over; 4.  Cradle to the Hearse; 5.  No Time; 6.  Heart of Memphis; 7.  Memphis Soul Stew; 8.  Strange Angels

 Publicist:  Blind Raccoon

Review:  This is the third straight year we have had the privilege of reviewing material from Michele D’Amour and the Love Dealers, and this is our favorite so far.  This lady and her band know how to make great music, and to share their passion with their listeners.  This is music that is truly enjoyable, and would make great placements for both film and television, as well as be the life of your weekend parties.  Grab a cold one and put this one on repeat.  The pure sound will keep you enthralled, especially on the title track.

Recommendation:  This one is a definite must-have for your collection.

Artist Name:  Casey Abrams

Album Name:  Jazz

Label:  Chesky Records

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  Autumn Leaves; 2.  I’ve got the World on a String; 3.  Need Your Love so Bad; 4.  You are so Beautiful; 5.  Why Don’t you do Right?; 6.  Hound Dog; 7.  One Note Samba; 8. L-O-V-E; 9.  The Girl from Ipanema; 10.  Fly me to the Moon; 11.  Round Midnight; 12.  Blackbird

Publicist:  Chesky Records

Review:  We had the distinct pleasure of being at the CD release show for this album back in May, and we previously reviewed the live versions of these songs.  As many of you know, Abrams has become a staple in Postmodern Jukebox, and this album demonstrates that Abrams also knows how to reinterpret classic songs, but with a jazzier sound.  His music is not just loved by fans but is also receiving critical acclaim.  The album versions feature Anne Drummond on flute, Jimmy Greene on saxophone, Mark Whitfield on guitar and Giveton Gelin on trumpet, joining Abrams on bass and vocals, and they quickly show why they are the dream band.  We are sure these versions will quickly join your growing list of favorite tunes, especially “You are so Beautiful,” “L-O-V-E,” “The Girl From Ipanema” and “Fly me to the Moon.”  We are proud to welcome this former American Idol contestant to the industry’s elite.

Recommendation:  Go grab this one – it’s all you’ll need on your desert island getaway.

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it indie music Reviews Unknown Wednesdays

Get it or forget it – Unknown Wednesdays vol. 1

We hope you enjoyed yesterday’s debut of Tuesday Treats, which will feature the latest releases from artists we are familiar with or have previously been featured on Indie Voice Blog.  Today we debut Unknown Wednesdays, where we introduce you to up and coming artists we have not previously reviewed.  Here we go.

Artist Name:  R. W. Roldan

Album Name:  Can You Feel This

Label:  Allswell Records

Genre:  Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Falling Star; 2.  Bad Love Pain; 3.  Those Who Fall; 4.  Big Skies; 5.  Night Before; 6.  Lauryn’s Song; 7.  Wyatt Earp; 8.  The Color Of; 9.  Hey Girl; 10.  Foreplay; 11.  Forevermore; 12.  Dead Batteries; 13.  Drift Away

Publicist:  Working Brilliantly

Review:  R.W. Roldan truly has a way with words, and his heartfelt passion can be heard and felt in every song on his latest project, which mixes a healthy dose of classic country with his Americana outlook on the world’s problems.  His songs have so much food for thought, and are perfect for contemplating over a cold brew.  Welcome to the latest incarnation of Woody Guthrie – we’re ready to listen.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth an add to  your music library.

Artist Name:  Resident

Album Name:  Darkness That Shines

Label: WayOut Sound

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Downtown Summer; 2.  Looking Out; 3.  Enigma; 4.  Golden; 5.  Darkness That Shines

Publicist:  None

Review:  Our relationship with producer Ed Donnelly began when he was with Aderra and continues to this day with his production work at WayOut Studios.  His latest project introduces us to the band Resident, and we are quite impressed.  The project only has five songs, but they are powerful enough to make an impression and convince us that this band belongs on the radio.  We would love to see them perform live, as we are sure that the energy contained in these tracks would translate to an amazing show.  Keep your eyes on these guys – we’re sure they will become a household name in no time flat.  Every song is great and we think you’ll be turning them up and placing this EP on repeat.

Recommendation:  Run out and get this one now.

Artist Name:  Max Fischer

Album Name: Oh No

Label:  Blossom Records

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Oh No; 2.  Get it Out; 3.  Talk to Me; 4.  Wonder Years; 5.  Four Eyes

Publicist:  Logan Barnes

Review:  Say hello to Max Fischer, who is not only stunning in her appearance but also has a killer voice that turns every song into a potential Top 40 masterpiece.  This is a performer that can write her own ticket to the top, and we think you should definitely go along for the ride.  All five songs are perfect for not only radio, but also placements in television and film.  We are simply floored by her talent and can’t wait to see what comes next.  All hail the new Queen of Pop!

Recommendation:  This one is a must-have for your collection.  Go get it now!

Artist Name:  Odds Lane

Album Name:  Lost and Found

Label:  Gulf Coast Records

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Blood on the Van; 2.  Don’t Give it Away; 3.  HARD RAIN; 4.   I Ain’t Missing You; 5.  A Little too Late; 6.  Lost and Found; 7.  Moth to a Flame; 8.  Seven States; 9.  Spare Change; 10.  What’s Your Name; 11.  White Castle Blues

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  These guys bring the best of classic rock to a solid understanding of the blues, with a sound like The Doobie Brothers meet ZZ Top.   They hit the ground running with the first track and don’t let up until the final note.  They even throw in a Steely Dan vibe on “A Little Too Late.”  We can only imagine how amazing they must be in concert, and hope we have the chance to check them out soon.  Every song is a rocking workshop in how to get it done.  We can easily see these songs placed in film and television, and blasting from the radio.  Don’t miss the chance to add this amazing band to your list of favorites.

Recommendation:  Drop what you’re doing and run out to get this one!

Artist Name:  Billy Price

Album Name:  Dog Eat Dog

Label:  Gulf Coast Records

Genre:  Soul Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Working on Your Chain Gang; 2.  Lose my Number; 3.  We’re in Love; 4.  Dog Eat Dog; 5.  My Love Will Never Die; 6.  All Night Long Cafe; 7.  Toxicity; 8.  Remnants; 9.  Same Old Heartaches; 10.  More Than I Needed; 11.  You Gotta Leave

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  It takes a special band to mix the complexities of soul and R&B into their blues sound, and Billy Price and his band have that ability in spades.  They remind us of the goodness of The Blues Brothers, although their sound is truly their own.  From the first notes of “Working on Your Chain Gang” to the final downbeat of “You Gotta Leave,” this music pulls the listener in and takes them captive.  The truth is that the music is so amazing that you don’t mind giving in to its charm.  This is the perfect soundtrack for your weekend party, and a great way to chill down from those working class blues.  All we can say about this one is Listen.  Enjoy.  Repeat.

Recommendation:  Definitely get this one.