Tag: #HFF19

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 preview day 1 – see it or skip it

Last night was the first official day of previews for HFF19, and it started off with a bang.  It was so great seeing all three shows, and running into fringeships that included Michal Shaw Fisher, Alli Miller, Sara Haworth, Schoen Hodges, Rasika Mathur, Eric Blair, Thea Rivera, Tracey Paleo aka Giaonthemove, Monika Spirit Hawk and Amber Bruegel, among others.

TITLE OF SHOW:  The Duchess & the Stripper

VENUE:  The Lounge Theatres

REVIEW:  Based solely on this show, we have no doubt that HFF19 is going to be a fabulous festival and the perfect example of ten years of Fringe shows.  The premise of the show is that Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor had a late-night meeting with burlesque queen Blaze Starr at Starr’s club in Baltimore, Maryland in 1961.   The show is brilliantly written by David Bosley and directed by Fringe veteran and mentor (as well as a truly talented actor in his own right) Ezra Buzzington.  The cast was likewise perfectly set with AEA actress Blaire Chandler in the role of Wallis Simpson, Cherry Poppins queen Alli Miller as Blaze Starr and Krista Conti as Starr’s sister and assistant June Fleming.  The entire show was breathtaking, and kept us on the edge of our seat from start to finish.  It was the first time we have seen Miller in a straight drama, and she killed it, with nothing less than stellar performances by Chandler and Conti as well.  This one is definitely one of the best Fringe shows we have ever seen.

RECOMMENDATION:  Don’t miss this show.  Remaining performances are June 9 at 1 p.m., June 15 at 5:30 p.m., June 21 at 10 p.m. and June 22 at 7:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Guilt

VENUE:  Second Stage (Cyanide Theatre)

REVIEW:  This show was composed of two short plays with a common theme.  First up was The Holy Name of Apostasy, written by Ryan Lisman and Benjamin Schwartz and directed by Lisman.  It was a two-hander that featured Varda Appleton as Mother Dawn and Brandon Courture as her student Dylan.  The story turned the #MeToo discussion on its ear with a bold interpretation of church abuse.  The second show was Man vs. Armadillo, written and directed by Schwartz.  It was likewise a two hander about the relationship between an adult son and his aging father.  But what set this one apart from so many other Fringe shows was the intriguing percussion that provided the soundtrack during the show and transitions.  It truly set the mood for the show, and added to the story in many ways.  Both halves were equally compelling, although we did think the second half was a little wordy.  Nevertheless, it was definitely worth the time.

RECOMMENDATION:  This show is worthy of your attention, just leave your religious prejudices at the door.  Remaining shows are June 14 at 8 p.m., June 16 at 2 p.m. and June 23 at 6 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Blackboxing

VENUE:  The Complex Hollywood (Dorie Theatre)

REVIEW:  Long-time Fringe veteran Matt Richey has mounted his best show ever, a show that would sweep the Tonys if it was on Broadway.  It told the story that every stage manager has probably experienced at one time or another, and allowed said Stage Manager to say and do things they’ve always dreamed of doing.  Jim Niedzialkowski is brilliant as the stage manager, while Richey aptly represented the selfish actor that thinks he’s ready for his one-man show.  I haven’t laughed that hard at a Fringe show in years, and it was the perfect culmination of a great day of Fringe previews.  If ever there was a sure-fire hit at Fringe, then this show is it.  The original music also added depth to the show, and provided some of the best highlights of the evening.

RECOMMENDATION:  This show is a can’t miss, and you simply must make it a priority for your Fringe schedule.  Remaining performances are June 14 at 8:30 p.m., June 16 at 2:30 p.m., June 22 at 4 p.m., June 27 at 10:30 p.m. and June 29 at 6:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

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Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it Theatre

HFF19 previews 2 – see it or skip it

Last night was the final night of Office Hours for HFF19.  All five of  the May sessions were held at BLACK, with the finale at Thymele Arts.  Last night was also Fringe Runway, with participants showing off their amazing costumes, followed by a round of live band karoake with the Moon Units.  It was a very interesting evening and signaled today’s start of preview performances.  Before we head out tonight for our first three “official” Fringe previews, we wanted to tell you about another show that we saw back on June 1.  The show opened in May, but will run through Fringe so it is considered part of HFF19.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Roots:  An Evening of World Premiere Shorts

VENUE:  Theatre of NOTE

REVIEW:  This show gave me an excuse to return to where it all started for me in 2010 – the Theatre of NOTE.  I fell in love with this theater and its company then and have tried to see at least one show there every year.  I had run into one of the actresses, Channing Sargent, at Office Hours on May 22, and she talked me into attending.  I am so glad I did, as these four shows were so different yet similar, and each one featured a stellar cast, although they were all directed by Lee Hannah Conrads and stage managed by Aaron Saldaña and Zachary Burch.

The first show was Deadpan by Phinneas Kiyomura, and featured truly gifted actress Jennifer Flack in the role of Winchester, a bride-to-be who gets wasted on her wedding day because she is uncertain about her future.  She was supported by Sierra Marcks as her best friend Heckler, Dan Wingard as Koch, and Brad C. Light as her fiance, Colt.  Patricia Canale also made a cameo appearance  as the parent of Colt.  This one was hysterical from start to finish, with a surprise ending that kept it fresh.

Next up was Big Ones by Lisa Sanaye Dring, and featured Sargent as one of three characters dealing with the aftermath of an earthquake.  She was supported by Tony DeCarlo and David Guerra, and all three turned in a united effort that made this a true ensemble piece.

The third show was Rand! by Bill Robens, and was the most complex and dynamic, and eerily similar to an opera, with Canale leading the charge as Peter the Great.   This was the showpiece of the four shorts, and featured Cat Chengery in the title role, with dynamic support from Alysha Brady as Natasha, DeCarlo as Vlad/Keynes, Kelby Jo McClellan as Rhodia/Hopkins and Jaxy Boyd as Anna/FDR.  Tying it all together were Boyd, Brady, Flack, Light, McClellan and Wingard as the Suitcase People, a dynamic chorus that were stunning to hear. and also contributed some hilarious transitions between the stories.

The final story, The Smell of Something to Eat by Erik Patterson, featured Chengery and Marcks as a couple that hook up only to discover some interesting truths about each other afterwards.  We won’t betray those surprises, but assure you that you will be pleasantly shocked by them.

All in all, it was a wonderful show that had what we truly encapsulated what we call “the NOTE experience.”  The entire show is about 90 minutes long with no intermission.

RECOMMENDATION:  Don’t miss this show.  Remaining shows are June 8 at 6 p.m., June 9, 15, 16 and 23 at 7 p.m. and June 22 at 8:30 p.m.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

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Hollywood Fringe Festival Theatre

Most anticipated shows at HFF19

It’s time once again for our annual list of the shows we are most anticipating at the 10th annual Hollywood Fringe Festival.  Unlike past years, not only are we reviewing shows and screening shows for our Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence, but I am also doing my first solo show.  Needless to say, this is going to be a very interesting Fringe.  Here is our list, in alphabetical order.

Come on Down (The Broadwater) – This one’s directed and written by Jeff Scot Carey, features Emily Clark, CJ Merriman AND Victor Isaac, and was part of Serial Killers at Sacred Fools – what more reasons do we need?  This one is going to be epic.

Crabbe & Goyle are Dead (Studio/Stage) – The Harry Potter legend continues at Fringe with this latest creation from Kitty Keim.  That’s reason enough to see it.

Hollywoodn’t (The Lounge) – This one tells the story of the Hollywood scene before women were allowed to speak up and say no.  It also features writer, performer and lyricist Lisa Verlo.  It’s also part of the amazing Soaring Solo community and is directed by Jessica Lynn Johnson.  Can’t wait for this one.

Klingon Tamburlaine (The Complex) – I am a huge Star Trek fan, and have always love the Klingons.  This one sounds like a sure-fire hit, and the dream show for every nerd at Fringe.

Pockets (The Broadwater) – If ever there was a “sure thing” at Fringe, it would be anything put on by Robot Teammate.  They have brought us the incredible Turbulence and Thug Tunnel and their creativity and musical abilities are among the best we’ve ever seen at Fringe.

Tattered Capes (Studio/Stage) – We think this may well be the best thing Theatre Unleashed has ever attempted.  Written by Greg Crafts and directed by Corey Lynn Howe, this show looks to take TU into uncharted territory, and we have every confidence it will be amazing.

The Duchess & the Stripper (The Lounge) – Every year we look for a historical play, and this one is our selection for HFF19.  It tells the story of the Duchess of Windsor and Blaze Starr, one of the most famous strippers of all time.  It’s also highly recommended by the Cherry Poppins crew.

The Mayor’s Debate of Tranquility, Nebraska (The Complex) – we have always been a huge fan of Jim Hanna, and his latest projects looks to be as close as we will come to an actual intelligent political discussion until next year.  We also love his marketing campaign.

Transference (The Broadwater) – This one features a pair of our favorite actresses in Esther Mira and Lisa K. Wyatt and is written and directed by the incomparable Jim Blanchette.  That adds up to an amazing time at the theater.

Wigfield (The Hudson) – Last year we almost missed out on the stunning Pamela Eberhardt show The Runaway Clone.  This year we’re jumping on the bandwagon and making her latest show required viewing.  Based on the amazing marketing campaign she has run, this one looks to be even better than last year’s Clone.

And there you have it.  We can’t wait for Fringe to begin, and already have 32 shows on our schedule, including all  of the above.  We’ll be publishing daily reviews, so keep it here for our See it or Skip it articles.

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Fringe Shows Hollywood Fringe Festival Reviews See it or Skip it

HFF19 previews – see it or skip it

The tenth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival is officially upon us with the first preview of #HFF19.  America got its first glimpse of the potential for this show when they appeared on America’s Got Talent and made it to the quarter-finals, but that was nothing compared to what is in store for attendees at their Fringe show.

TITLE OF SHOW:  Human Fountains

VENUE:  Let Live Theater at The Actor’s Company

REVIEW:  This show lifted physical theater to an entirely new level.  Now pared down to three performers (Benjamin Tillis, Sam Kaufman and Joel Lowinger), they wasted no time to wowing the audience with their “human interpretation of the Bellagio fountains in Vegas.”  The show was magical from start to finish, and told with amazing music and absolutely no words.  Each performer had his moment and the chemistry between the three was palpable.  It was quite obvious that they loved what they were doing, and their audience interaction and involvement weresome of the best we have ever seen at Fringe.  This show may very well turn out to be the surprise hit of the Festival.

RECOMMENDATION:  Don’t miss this show.  There is one more preview on May 21 before it officially opens for Fringe.  Performances are scheduled for June 25 and 26 at 8:30 p.m., June 27 at 9 p.m., June 28 at 3:15 p.m. and June 29 at 12:45 p.m.  Don’t live your life with regret – make sure you see this show above all others.  Tickets are available on their Fringe project page.

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday Mashup 2019: vol. 17

Spent Saturday driving – took me 13 hours to get from Missoula to North Las Vegas, where I crashed for the night courtesy of Airbnb.  Got up early on Sunday morning and drove straight to Irwindale for the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire and a day of checking out all the wonderful music and reconnecting with old friends.  It’s been six years since my last Faire, and a lot had changed.  Check out my article later this week for the rundown.

ASCAP “I Create Music” EXPO

This weekend, May 2-4, is the annual convention for the amazing folks at ASCAP.  We will be representing the Blog at the event, and hope to have lots of great information to pass on.  If you are an ASCAP member, or thinking about joining, check out the link for registration information.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is a song that will remind you of early No Doubt with a country/Americana twist.  Here is The OCN with their song, “Baby Blue,” and we simply love it.

Next up is an English alt-pop band called Peakes that we have featured previously on Indie Voice Blog.  We think that “Til we get Enough” is one of their best, and are very happy to share it with you.

Our next group combines the best of Sydney with Cologne and gives us a sound very similar to Maroon 5.  We are proud to bring you “Lovers” from KEØMA.

We switch things up a bit with our next single, which will compel you to get out on the dance floor.  The sound is electro-pop with a healthy dose of 90s new wave and comes to us from Amsterdam’s Sheila and the Kit.  Check out their dance track “Ruffhouse.”

We close out this week’s singles with a soulful and enticing R&B song from Annelise.  She tells us the story of her “Lonely Lover,” and we want to comfort her during her time of grief.  Let us know what you think of this amazing track.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video may have been released in early March, but we just discovered it.  It comes from an amazing vocalist who practices entertainment law by day and performs with her band, Riddle the Sphinx, by night, when she’s not being a mother to her three kids (including husband Sean).   Her name is Christiane Kinney, and the song is “Lullaby.”  This one will haunt you.

Back in 1992, Leonard Cohen released a masterpiece called “Democracy.”  Now indie artist Jake Clemons has released a stunning lyric video for his cover of this classic song.  Check it out and let us know what you think.

Video number three is an animated one that lovingly recreates the latest from multi-LA Music Critic Award winner Jerad Finck.  This one is for his latest single “Home,” and we think it is one of his most powerful songs yet.

Next up is an amazing indie rock tune that is all too timely.  The song talks about addition and rehab and is called “Recover // Relapse.” It comes to us from the band Falling Through April.  They just might become one of our favorites.

Our final video comes from She Made Me Do It, alt-rockers that we have featured before.  We love their latest, “Broken Morning,” and will be rocking out to this one for a while.  Enjoy it with our compliments.

 

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

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 15

Happy tax day!  Two weeks from today we’ll be in Los Angeles to begin rehearsals for my solo show, Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey).  We open on June 7 at studio/stage in Hollywood, and will be doing five performances during the month of June.  If you believe in the arts, and want to help us put on this show, please visit our fundraiser page at GoFundMe and donate.  Thanks.

We are also making our final preparations for the third annual LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase on June 18 at The Mint LA.  Tickets are on sale now at the venue website, as well as through PayPal.  If you want to purchase tickets through PayPal, use lamusiccritic@yahoo.com as the payee and indicate how many tickets you want.  The cost is just $10 per ticket.  Please help us showcase these amazing indie artists and raise funds for the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from LA Music Critic Award winning country trio Southern Halo, who has been featured on numerous occasions in this blog.  We simply love their new single, which truly sets the stage for summer.  Give it up for these three young ladies, who are bringing us the “Sunshine.”

Next up is a band from Stockholm that will put you in a party mood, even though the words are nothing to laugh about.  The sound is so infectious and upbeat that you will enjoy it, even though it’s about sadness.  Check out “Cryin’ (such a disgrace)” from Delsbo Beach Club.

Our third single is the title track to the new album by Field Guide.  It’s called “Full Time,” and we think it demonstrates that this artist is ready for prime time.  We love the accompaniment and the honesty and integrity of the lyrics.  Enjoy it.

https://soundcloud.com/user-574887665/full-time-master

Next up is the sweet simple acoustic stylings of Hong Kong born singer-songwriter Allman Brown.  This artist has a perfect radio-friendly sound and we think he is on his way to the top of the charts.  Check out his single, “Lonely Hearts, Los Angeles,” and you’ll see what we mean.

Our final single this week is from the ever-impressive Jess Ribeiro, who consistently delivers quality music.  This is from her recently released album LOVE HATE, and describes her love/hate relationship with “Dylan.”  We’re sure you can relate.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week comes from Broadway legend Eden Espinosa (Wicked), and is an incredible video for her single “Bed for 2.”  Her voice is electric and her songwriting is some of the best we have heard this year.  Enjoy this one – we think she’ll be riding the top of the charts in no time.

We think our next video, “Ring Ring” will definitely get you up and ready for the dance floor.  We love the sound of Nikki Paige, and were impressed that she has been a paid songwriter since the age of 11!  Let us know what you think about her.

Our next video is a well-shot film for the latest from Taveeta, “Chasing Feelings.”  She has an amazing voice and and hip-hop/R&B sense of style to her sound.

Our next video is the perfect segue and features R&B artist Àkin.  Check out the smooth sound of “Green Light,” with just the right amount of reggae goodness to take it over the top.

We close out this week with a beautiful remake of the classic Minnie Ripperton song “Loving You.”  We think T’Melle has the perfect voice for the song, and captures it perfectly.

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 41

Happy Veterans Day (day 2).  Since the real day fell on a Sunday, the government is honoring it today, giving us veterans a double holiday.  Thanks to Red Robin and Applebee’s for feeding so many of us yesterday, and to Denny’s and Noodles Express for taking care of us today.  We’ve got some news for you, as well as five new singles and music videos to share, so grab your coffee and let’s get going.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES DATES FOR 2019

The tenth annual Hollywood Fringe Festival will be held June 13-30, 2019, with previews from June 6-11 and the Opening Night Party on June 12.  In addition, they are now accepting applications for Fringe Scholarships.  As we previously informed you, our very own LA Music Critic has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for his first solo show, Livin’ the Dream, which is scheduled to premiere at HFF19.  Please check out his campaign and support him if you can.  We thank you for whatever you can contribute.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from a pair of songwriters we have met as a result of our involvement in the Durango Songwriters Expo.  Richard Harris is an amazing songwriter and mentor who has worked with a number of DSE alum, and his collaboration with fellow Brit Greg Holden on “Something Beautiful” gives us hope in this troubled time.  We have wanted to share this one since we heard it at the Expo in October.

While we’re spotlighting UK artists, here are a couple of singles we have received as a result of our affiliation with “Send to Media.”  First up is Welshman Ryan Davies, who continues the aforementioned theme with “Beautiful Thing.”  This one reminds us of Rod Stewart.

Our third single is a super-cool upbeat dance pop track from Fanny Andersen.  Check out her groovy number, “Dollar Signs.”  Although this one technically came out in September, we missed it and wanted you to have the chance to hear what should be the first of many hit songs from her.

https://soundcloud.com/edda-music/fanny-andersen-dollar-igns/s-5gCif

Our fourth single comes from Hotel Mira, who says they were inspired to write “Jungle” after viewing the Oscar nominated film, Lady Bird.  Let us know what you think of this outstanding indie rock band, which we previously featured in our Ten Great Singles of April article.

Our final single today is a delightful cover of the Prince-written Sinead O’Connor song “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Norwegian artist Anna of the North.  Enjoy this one which should get your week off to a great start.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from former Mickey Mouse Club and The Voice contestant Tony Lucca, who reminds us that “Everthing’s Changing.”  We love this one.

Next up is the latest from the one and only KT Tunstall.  Here’s her video for her latest single, “Human Being.”  Special props to Eccaia Sampson, the unbelievable 8-year old martial artist who stars in the video.

Our third video is some rocking blues from Karen Lawrence and Blue by Nature.  Check out this live version of their song, “It’s All About You.”  Thanks to Doug Deutsch for sharing this one with us.

Our fourth video takes us from the blues to R&B.  We love this one from the amazing Lorelle Howard, who mixes several genres to deliver a gem in “Runnin.”

Our final video this week is “World Domination,” an indie rock post apocalyptic smash from Band of Silver that pays homage to such classic movies as The Hunger Games.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 39

It’s that rare fifth Monday, and we have a very special Mashup for you today.  We are proud to debut a new single that is being released tomorrow, in advance of the release of the artist’s first novel on November 6, which is based on notes from her ten years of touring in Los Angeles and San Diego.  We are in the process of reviewing the book and think you will love her new sound and new stage name.  In addition, we have five new singles and five new music videos to share, so let’s get this party going.

TABITHA RHYS TO RELEASE FIRST NOVEL

Tabitha Rhys is a long-time indie artist who has taken her experiences from touring through Los Angeles and San Diego to write her first novel, Love Music Madness, which is being released on November 6.  Check out the book trailer:

That song you hear in the background was written by Rhys.  Since she no longer has a band, she enlisted the help of Stereium to create the “Lana del Rey” sound.  The song is being released TOMORROW, but we have a sneak preview for you today.  We really love her style, and can’t wait to review the novel and any more music that follows.  You can purchase the single on iTunes.

LA MUSIC CRITIC LAUNCHES INDIEGOGO CAMPAIGN

Our very own LA Music Critic has launched an Indiegogo campaign to raise money for his first solo show, scheduled to premiere at HFF19 in Los Angeles next June.  Please check out his campaign and support him if you can.  We thank you for whatever you can contribute.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single comes from another amazing artist from Blue Élan Records, whose new album V will be released in January 2019.  In the meantime, enjoy the southern charm of The Vegabonds‘ new single, “I Ain’t Having It.”

Next up is “Hiya”, the latest offering from TNEO (The New Electronic Orchestra).  They wanted to say hello to all their current and future fans with this delightfully upbeat song.  You can’t help but be uplifted by this beautiful pop/classic sound, and we think you’ll soon become a fan if you aren’t already.

Our third single comes from one of our favorite female indie artists.  Jess Klein has consistently delivered amazing songs, and her new single, “Mammal,” is no exception.  Enjoy this one, and be free to be you.

Our next single comes from Perth, Australia-based artist Frankie Crea.  We think you will love his new song, “Dream.”

Our final single this week is from Canadian band Victory Chimes.  Check out “Halos” from their forthcoming album, due for release next month.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from Ziggy Alberts, another amazing Aussie indie artist.  We love the simple and sweet sound of “Stronger,” and think you will too.

Next is “Killah,” the visually stunning music video from indie folk artist Frank James.  This one should become one of your favorite jams, as he mixes hip-hop with folk to create a truly unique sound.

We are so proud to present our third video from the amazing Jane Ellen Bryant, who we recently reviewed in our Get it or Forget it series.  Check out this incredible video for her song, “Too Smooth.”  We think it truly describes this artist.

Our fourth video is likewise smooth, with the groovy R&B/soul sound of Dom Marcell.  Here is his song, “Thats Whats Up.”

We close out this week and the month of October with this video from Germany-based trio The Trouble Notes.  This is one of the best pop/classical songs we have heard and we love their video for “Grand Masquerade.”  We think you will truly love both the sound and the cinematography.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 38

It was a terrible weekend for our favorite teams, as Milwaukee lost in Game 7, Wake Forest gave up a 10 point lead and lost to Florida State, and the Dolphins gave the Lions 10 points for every touchdown they scored, losing 32-21.  At least we have some new music to share with you that might take the edge off, so sit back and let’s get grooving.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL 2019 NEWS

We’re so pleased to announce the official dates for the 2019 Hollywood Fringe Festival.   The tenth annual festival will open with previews June 6-11 and their Opening Night Party on June 12.  The Festival will run from June 13-30, concluding with the amazing awards show on June 30.  If you are interested in participating,  create a project today.

Make your plans now to attend the debut of “Livin’ the Dream,” the behind-the-scenes solo show about the life and career of the LA Music Critic, one of many great shows to choose from at HFF19.

In addition, they are offering a Creative Workshop Series. This year it will be held on November 3 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature a full day of sessions on writing, sharing and critiquing ,as well as lots of panels.  The sessions are PWYC with a suggested ticket price of $20.  You can get more information about the offerings as well as reserve a seat here.

NEW SINGLES

They say the third time is a charm, so let’s hope so.  We have been trying to share this amazing single with you for a while, but so many good things have been happening with it that it has not been available.  We can now finally share “Haunt’d” by the up and coming superstar Kenna, a Nashville singer-songwriter with a brilliant future.  We think you’ll love this one.

We have a couple of songs we are happy to premiere.  First up is “PTSD,” from the sweet sound of Stalking Gia.  This one has an infectious dance groove supporting incredible vocals and well-written lyrics, for a totally different take on the subject.  This one could easily become a Top 40 hit.

The second of our premieres is from Los Angeles-based rock band Uniform Standard, who bring us “Filthy Mouth.”  This one will definitely get your week rocking, with lots of double entendre and the soaring vocals of lead singer Dana Andrews, who was one of the contestants on Rockstar: Supernova.

Our fourth single is from Boise, Idaho based band Messimer.  We like their retro sound and think you will like it too.  Here’s “I Know I Should.”

https://soundcloud.com/messimer/i-know-i-should

Our final single this week is from an artist we believe is on the cusp of greatness.  Check out “Let it Out” by the amazing R&B/pop vocalist Dominque Tey.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is the amazing sound of Big Lonely with their tune “Ticket.”  We absolutely love the sound of this tune, and the video will definitely get you ready for Halloween.

Our next video is the latest from Sexy Dex and The Fresh, who we have previously featured.  Check out the vibe of “!Wait!”

Our third video will grab you, with the smoky voice of Ashley Iona, which just doesn’t seem to fit her image.  We love the uniqueness of her sound, and are really digging her new track, “Leaving.”

Next up is the video interpretation of Julie-Anne‘s song, “Met by Grace.”  This one is a beautiful anthem of hope, with a stellar violin track.  Please let us know what you think about this one.

Our final music video this week is the latest from the ever-evolving music genius Dree Mon.  Get up and Dance with her amazing song, “Dance Like I Want To.”

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 27

It’s our final Monday Mashup of the month, and we have some great new music to share with you.  Check out the latest news as well.

LA MUSIC CRITIC TO DEBUT SHOW AT HFF19

Our very own LA Music Critic, Bob Leggett, will be debuting a solo show at next year’s Hollywood Fringe Festival.  Inspired by the amazing productions put on by the Soaring Solo Community, he has hired Jessica Lynn Johnson to help him develop his show, Livin’ the Dream, which will debut at HFF19 next year.  The show is the story of his life and career, focusing on not just dreaming about great things, but accomplishing them as well.  Watch for the Indiegogo campaign being launched in August, and support him on his latest adventure.  We are very proud to be a part of what should be a great show.

VK LYNNE RELEASES AUDIO BOOK OF POETRY

VK Lynne, the lead single of multi-LA Music Critic Award winning band The Spider Accomplice is releasing an audio book containing 35 of her poems, read by a plethora of her friends.  Entitled The Release and Reclamation of Victoria Kerygma, the audiobook is available on Bandcamp.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, members of the Mountain Home Music family of artists.  They have created a beautiful song that is being released to support the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) Trust Fund which, like the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund, provides support for struggling artists.  We think you will love this beautiful arrangement and we hope you will likewise support these organizations that help indie musicians.

Our next single is an upbeat pop tune from Mike Edel.  He was featured in our March Ten Great Singles article, and this time around, he promises he will “Go With You.”  We think this one could be a huge hit, and look forward to what’s still to come from this amazing artist.

Our third single is being released by Elkka through Femme Culture, and is an upbeat dance tune called “Stay (warm edit).”  We think this one goes hand in hand with our previous single, and should help get your Monday off to a great start.

Our fourth single continues the positive spin as CJ Hooper releases his first track from his forthcoming album.  “When we Rise” is the perfect remedy for the Monday blahs.

Our final single this week comes from Caibedo Island.  They encourage us to be “Stronger,” and we love the sentiment.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video comes from an artist we reviewed last week, Roger Len Smith, who was introduced to us by a long-time friend Bobbo Byrnes, lead vocalist of The Fallen Stars.  Here is “Raining on a Sunny Day.”

Next up is the latest video from Grammy-nominated artist Janiva Magness for the title track from her latest album on Blue Élan Records, Love is an Army, featuring LA Music Critic Award winning artist Bryan Stephens.  We hope you enjoy this one as much as we do.

Our third video this week is a political statement about gentrification of our great cities.  Nick Ferrio releases “I Don’t Know How Long” and we totally understand his concerns.

Our fourth video has the rhythm of the islands as Constanza Herrero talks about “Packing Up.”  This video should get your juices flowing and get you on the dance floor.

Our final video this week is the R&B and soul sound of Roxanne Tataei.  Here’s “Crimson Eyes.”  We hope this firmly places your Monday in a good place.  Have a great week and we’ll be back soon with our articles on the Ten Amazing Videos and Ten Great Singles released in July.