Tag: indie music news

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018 – vol. 3

Welcome to the third week of 2018.  We have enjoyed so much music already this year, and look forward to what is still to come.  We’ve got some news for you today, as well as three new singles and three new music videos for you to check out.  Here we go!

BANDSINTOWN ANNOUNCES “BIG BREAK” EMERGING ARTIST PROGRAM

The concert discovery app Bandsintown has announced a new data-driven program called “Big Break.”  The first bands selected are Foxtrax from Los Angeles, Minke from London, Peach Pit from Vancouver and Sisters from Seattle.

Artists selected will receive promotion across Bandsintown’s digital newtwork, as well as customized editorial, in-app features, brand partnerships tour and special showcase opportunities, and social media promotion.  The program will spotlight 50 artists during the coming year.

Artists will be selected from those using the Bandsintown app, so create your account today if you want to be considered.

DEADLINE APPROACHES FOR COMPETITION

The Unsignedonly.com competition, open to any indie artist not signed to a major label, is drawing to a close.  The deadline for entry is this Wednesday, January 24, 2018.   Prizes include a Grand Prize of $20,000, plus mentoring by record label executives, top industry managers, major booking agencies and more.

Categories include AAA (Adult Album Alternative), AC (Adult Contemporary), Americana, Christian, Country, EDM, Folk/Singer- Songwriter, R&B/Hip-Hop, Rock, Pop/Top 40, Screen Shot (songs suitable for placement in film/TV/advertising/gaming), Teen (artists 18 years old or younger) and Vocal Performance.

You can enter by clicking here.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is “Warning Signs,” a single set to be released this Friday by Italian songwriter An Early Bird.  Let us know what you think.

Our second single is actually a double release, “For You”/”Por Ti” and comes courtesy of Nina Diaz, the lead singer of punk rock trio Girl in a Coma.  The first song is English and the second is the Spanish adaptation.  We think you’ll like this one.

Our last new single for you today is from Santa Cruz based punk rock band Craig’s Brother, and is their first new song in seven years.  Check out “Meilynn’s Song,” from their new IVM compilation Family & Friends Sampler.

https://soundcloud.com/indievisionmusic/craigs-brother-meilynns-song/s-rdbQ9

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Moving on to some new videos, check out this amazing one from Scarlett Taylor for her song “I Can Fly.”  It’s a dark tune with an impressive musical soundtrack.  Let us know what you think.

Our second video is a lot more upbeat and features some stirring cinematography of the Calgary skyline.  Check out “Follow Me” from The Raven and the Fox.

Our final video today is from the new Accomplice One album by Tommy Emmanuel, which we will be reviewing shortly.  Here’s he joined by Frank Vignola and Vinny Raniolo on the song, “Djangology,” which was recorded at the Abdala Studio in Havana, Cuba.  Have a great week!

 

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LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2018 – vol. 2

It’s Martin Luther King, Jr. day – hope you remembered and thought about the amazing legacy he left behind and the example he was for all humanity, especially in this day and time.  We have a lot of news for you today, as well as three new singles and music videos.  Don’t forget that the nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards will be announced on Wednesday, January 17, with the winners announced on Friday, February 2.  We can’t wait to share them with you.

INDIE MUSIC AT WINTER NAMM

The NAMM Show for musicians is the equivalent of Saint Patrick’s Day for the Irish.  It is an annual event held in January every year at the Anaheim Convention Center which brings together all types of music manufacturers, buyers and musicians to show off the latest innovations and to share music.  It is not open to the public, although some special events are, like the nightly musical showcases in the hotel lobbies of the Marriott and the Hilton, as well as on the outdoor stages outside the Convention Center.  Kudos to Tim Moyer, who coordinates these artists every year.  Here is a list of indie musicians who will be performing on the Marriott’s two stages during this year’s Winter NAMM, which will be during Grammy weekend, January 25-28, 2018:

Wednesday, January 24
5-5:40 – Paula Boggs Band
6-6:40 – Will Champlin
7-7:40 – Nu-Blu
8-8:40 – Stephanie Brown and the Surrealistics
9-9:40 – Minor Strut
10-10:40 – Static and Surrender
11-11:40 – Lunar Hand

Thursday, January 25
11-11:40 – Jamie Stillway
12-12:40 – Aidan James
1-1:40 – Dauzat St. Marie
2-2:40 – Ben Allen
3-3:40 – MASUMI Trio
4-5:40 – Tim Moyer Songwriters Round (Steven McClintock, Tessa Delee)
6-6:40 – The Get Down Boys
7-7:40 – Incendio
8-8:40 – Wish and the Well
9-9:40 – Parlor Social
10-10:40 – Paul Childers
11-11:40 – Shaye & Black Hat
12-12:40 – Gene Evaro, Jr.

Friday, January 26
11-11:40 – Heather Nation
12-12:40 – Trevor Gordon Hall
1-1:40 – Tiffany Christopher
2-2:40 – Grayson Erhard
3-3:40 – Lloyd Spiegel
4-5:40 – Tim Moyer Songwriters Round (Kiki Ebsen, Makayla Phillips, Randi Driscoll)
6-6:40 – Stephanie Johnson Band
7-7:40 – Wimberly Bluegrass Band
8-8:40 – Printz
9-9:40 – NAMM VIP SURPRISE PERFORMANCE
10-10:40 – Bernie Williams and Gil Paris
11-11:40 – Chase Walker
12-12:40 – The Fenians

Saturday, January 27
11-11:40 – Emily Faith
12-12:40 – Jon Mullane
1-1:40 – Jessica Malone
2-2:40 – Chi McLean
3-3:40 – Wilifax
4:5:40 – Tim Moyer Songwriters Round (Sister Speak, Josh Logan, Olivia Henken)
6-6:40 – Venice
7-7:40 – Aaron Rizzo
8-8:40 – Larry Mitchell
9-9:40 – Sara Rogo
10-10:40 – The Crooked Stones
11-11:40 – Komox
12-12:40 – Elvis Monroe

SENNHEISER ANNOUNCES NAMM PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Kudos also to Jay Tinsky, who has booked a great line-up of performers on the Sennheiser Microphone stage (Booth 6577) inside the Convention Center.  Unfortunately, these performances are open to badgeholders only.

Thursday, January 25
11:30 – Randell Kirsch and Luann Olson
12:30 – Ronee Martin
1:30 – Michael Mell
2:30 – Talbot Brothers
3:30 – Rie Sinclair

Friday, January 26
11:30 – Jaq MacKenzie
12:30 – Astral Queen (ft. Nina Storey and Mark McKee)
1:30 – Ari and the Alibis
2:30 – Marcus Eaton
3:30 – Julia Othmer
4:30 – Nu Blue

Saturday, January 27
11:30 – Dixie Jade
12:30 – Luci
1:30 – Lola Lennox
2:30 – Debby Holiday
3:30 – Charlie Bereal
4:30 – J. Malik

Sunday, January 28
11:30 – em rossi
12:30 – The Talbots
1:30 – George Krikes ft. Pretty Polly
2:30 – Ari and the Alibis
3:30 – Marina V

NEW SINGLES

Our first single today, “Interfear,” comes to us from Australian band Foemen.  This one should get your senses pumping and your heart racing.  Let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/the-a-3/foemen-interfear

Next up is the “Times Flying,” from Elin K, a majestic ballad that will take your ears and mind on an excellent auditory journey.  Check it out.

https://soundcloud.com/elin_k/times-flying/s-ACaTJ

Our final single today, “Winter” by Luke Buck, is another ballad that will take you on a journey that will appeal to all of your senses.  We think this one has legs.

https://soundcloud.com/lukebuckmusic/winter

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Check out this amazing lyric video from Foreign Figures for their single, Heart of Gold.  We think this one is a sure-fire hit.

Next up is “When we Were Young,” an amazing video from The Rigs and featuring DeAnte Tyree Duckett.  This might become our new favorite song, and it’s perfect for this particular holiday.  Enjoy!

Our final video today is some K-Pop from Down Under,  Stalking Like Candy‘s “Can You See the Light.”  We are overjoyed and amazed at the visual stimulation and the fun, upbeat vibe of this band and their song.  Let us know how they affect you.

 

 

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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 Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 46

It’s our final Monday Mashup of 2017, since next Monday is Christmas day.  We wanted to thank you for checking us out this year, and are looking forward to sharing much more indie music news in 2018.  Make sure you drop us a line and let us know when you win an award, have a CD release show or other important event, so that we can share it with the world.

BLUE ÉLAN RECORDS MAKES CHRISTMAS MUSIC VIDEO

As we posted on December 5, Blue Élan Records released an album of Christmas songs by its artists, and donated the proceeds to the Alliance for Children’s Rights.  On December 11, those artists gathered in the studio to make a music video of a song written by Gina Sicilia.  We hope you have a wonderful Christmas season and applaud Blue Élan Records and its artists for giving us this special treat.

FIRST CALIFORNIA COUNTRY AWARDS A SUCCESS

The first annual California Country Awards were handed out on December 16, and many of this blog’s favorites took home trophies.  LA Music Critic Award winner Alice Wallace took the award for Female Vocalist of the Year, and LA Music Critic Award winner Honey County took home awards for Band of the Year, Song of the Year for “Love Someone” and Video of the Year for “Love Someone,” while their producer John Spiker also took home Producer of the Year.  Other winners included Gethen Jenkins for Male Vocalist of the Year and Album of the Year for Where the Honkytonk Belongs,  Joe Devenney for Musician of the Year, Scotty Mac for Entertainer of the Year, Cowboy Country for Venue of the Year, and Brad Johnson for CCM Excellence.  Shawn Parr, former KZLA and Go Country 105 DJ and creator of “Nash Nights Live” was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award.

NEW SINGLES

Mikey Wax has been a huge supporter of indie music in Los Angeles.  He is also quite the creative powerhouse.  Check out his latest single, “Spaceman” with Stash Konig.  We think you’ll love it as much as we do.

Here’s “Your Love,” the latest from Hannah Lucia.  Loving the groove of the tune and her vocals.  This one is a keeper.

Our final single this week is from Featurette, and it lives up to its name.  “Upside Down” will turn your musical tastes around as this electronica duo show us how it’s done.  Let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the annual Christmas video from Redhead Express.  It is a cover of the Sara Bareilles song, “Love is Christmas.”  Enjoy our little gift to you.

Next is the music video for a song we introduced you to back on November 13, co-written by David Garfield and Smokey Robinson and featuring J. Paris.  We love this beautiful interpretation of the song, and are thrilled to feature “I Lied.”

LA Music Awards Icon winner Janey Street has created an amazing DIY music video for her song “Undone,” from her latest album “In my own Skin.”  Check out this amazing song.

Last but not least, here’s the latest from Dree Mon, with a truly stimulating video for her hit song, “Rebel Soul.”  If this one doesn’t get you pumped up, nothing will.  Thanks Dree!

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 45

It only took us 825 days (or from September 7, 2015) to break 40,000 views on Indie Voice Blog, which we accomplished on December 10, 2017.  That’s an average of nearly 50 views a day, with our biggest day being July 11, 2017, when we had 1,100 views.  During that time we have posted 322 articles, including 88 “Get it or Forget It” reviews covering 304 EPs and CDs, as well as numerous artist profiles, Fringe and local theatre reviews and coverage of the semi-annual LA Music Critic Awards, with special features on the 2016 winners.  Not too shabby, right?

MEDIA EXCELLENCE AWARDS TO BE HANDED OUT

The 10th Annual Media Excellence Awards will be handed out in a ceremony at the Laemmle Theater (8556 Wilshire Boulevard) in Beverly Hills on January 18, 2018.  The Red Carpet will start at 7 p.m. with the ceremony to follow at 8 p.m.  For more information, please send an email to the organizers, or give them a call.

LAST CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS

The LA Music Critic Awards have issued a final call for submissions for the second half of 2017.  If your single, video, EP or CD was released between July 1 and December 31, 2017, then it is eligible for submission.  Nominations will be announced during the second week of January, with the winners announced by the end of the month.  Several of the winners will be selected to perform at the annual LA Music Critic Award Showcase in June 2018.

NEW SINGLES

We love introducing new artists to you.  Check out the new single, “Wishing Upon a Star,” from Delsinki, which features the amazing Brooke Taylor.  We think you’ll love these vocals and Americana soundtrack.

Australian artist Zvchvrivh blasts onto the scene with a chill track for his new single, “Think of Me.”  We love the groove – let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from one of our favorite performers, based in Nashville.  Heather Bonds is an amazing solo artist as well as the lead single for The Daybreaks.  We think her new single may be one of her best yet.  Check out “Keep it Quiet.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the hot new video from Austin, Texas based  FlecHaus.  This band continues to amaze us with their harmonies and funky sound, especially on their latest tune, “Tell Me Something.”  Let us know what you think.

Check out this dreamy video from Kramies, shot in the incredible Shankill Castle in Ireland earlier this year.  The lyrics from the single, “I Wish I Missed You,” are haunting and perfectly fit the incredible cinematography of the video.  Let us know what you think.

Our final video for today is from The Zephyr Bones for their single, “Telephone.”  We think it’s the perfect way to close out this edition of Monday Mashup.  See you soon.

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 42

What a wonderful Veterans Day weekend!  All of our favorite sports teams – Griz, Deacons and Wizards – won their games and the Dolphins play tonight on Monday Night Football.  The only thing that can top that is great indie music, and we have that in spades!

NINA STOREY LAUNCHES ASTRAL QUEEN

One of our favorite indie musicians, Nina Storey, recently joined with Mark McGee and launched their new techno-pop band Astral Queen.  The first single, “Take  it all the Way,” is a smash and the obvious next step in the evolution of her music.  Check it out below, and don’t forget to subscribe to her amazing blog Strangely Optimistic, as well.

THE CREAM CONTINUES TO RISE WITH MILCK’s REMAKE OF HER VIRAL HIT, “QUIET” 

In light of the recent news about sexual assault in the entertainment industry, MILCK has remade her video for  “Quiet.”  We think it is one of the most powerful videos we have ever seen, both visually and sonically.  We especially love the inclusion of the orchestra, as well as the multiple story lines.  Thank you Atlantic Records for allowing your artist to speak her mind and share this amazing song, which should help in bringing closure to these victims.

DAVID GARFIELD TEAMS WITH SMOKEY ROBINSON FOR NEW SINGLE

The new single by David Garfield, “I Lied,” ft. J. Paris, was co-written by the one and only Smokey Robinson.  The vocals of J. Paris soar on wings of angels, perfectly highlighting the instrumental soundtrack provided by Garfield.  The country vibe fits perfectly with the strings and vocals to highlight this “instant classic.”  We guarantee this one will make your day.

NEW SINGLES

First up today is “Common Sense,” the latest from Down and Outlaws, a San Francisco-based rock and roll quartet.  This one is sure to get your new week off to a rocking start.

Our second new single this week is from Australian brother duo Sellars.  “Linear Time” is a classic rock tune that will surely stand the test of time.  Welcome to the indie rock world, Sellars.  We look forward to hearing much more from them in the future.

Last but not least, here is “The Weight” (ft. Sickflip), from FRASE, an electronic artist from Montreal.   Let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

“Take Your Time” by Lender is an amazing dance video that has been making the film festival circuit, garnering critical and fan praise and support.  We think it is an artistic masterpiece.  Let us know what you think.

Next up is “Give Erin a Compliment (so Kind)” ft, April Olsen, the latest single from Jaye Bartell.  It is an interesting Americana song that should stimulate your senses as you begin a new week.

Our last new video this week is a lyric video from Durango Songwriter Expo alum Rachel Price.  Check out “Love is War” and have a great week.

 

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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 Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 38

Happy Native American Day fka Columbus Day.  Just got back last night from an incredible three days in Denver for the Durango Songwriters Expo.  What a wonderful time of reconnecting with old friends like Warren Sellers, Steve Garvan, Bobby Rymer, Richard Harris, Jim Attebery, Vince West, Jill Sobule and Scott Krippayne and meeting wonderful new friends like Elise Wunder, hit songwriter Chris Lindsley, budding superstars and twins Carly and Martina, Chloe Tang and others.  Got to  be a part of Steve’s DIY panel, as well as attend some amazing showcases, listening sessions and panels.  Watch for my review this week.

TVMAs HANDED OUT

Congratulations to Tim Moyer and the Temecula Valley Music Awards for another successful year.  We also congratulate all the winners which were announced over the weekend.  Here is a list of the winners:

Best Blues Out of Town – Sarah Rogo
Best Country – America’s Kountry
Best Cover Band – Endeavor
Best Jazz – David Maldonado 
Best Pop OOT – Dree Mon
Best R&B/Soul – Shea
Best Rock – Midnight Satellites
Best Rock OOT – The Crooked Stones
Best Singer/Songwriter OOT – Savannah Philyaw
Best Singer/Songwriter- Dulaney and Company
Best Youth Cover – Makayla Phillips
Best Youth Original – Minor Strut
People’s Choice – Minor Strut
Artist of The Year – Ben Allen

NEW SINGLES

We wanted to spotlight some new singles from performers we saw at Durango this weekend.  First up is Marion, who has an amazing new EDM single, “Electric Gold.”  If this one doesn’t get you up and dancing, then you need to wake up.

Next up is Gracie Day, whose new single is already getting rave reviews.  Check out “I Don’t Want Whiskey.”  The song starts at about 1:35.

Our third single is “Home” from Rachel Price.  She is an amazing singer songwriter that definitely has a huge future in music.  Check out this live recording from her performance at The Mint in Los Angeles.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is a favorite of this blog, and many of you in addition.  Katie Costello is becoming the queen of DIY and is an extremely gifted artist.  Check out her video for her latest “Hearts on Fire.”

Next up is a lyric video from amazing UK artist Hannah Trigwell.  She has joined up with Captive on her song, “I Could be the One.”  This is another one that will make you want to get up and dance.

Last but not least this week is a live video from another of this blog’s favorite acts, Calico the Band.  Check out “The Leaving Kind.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 36

Happy Monday.  Looking forward to my trip to Oklahoma tomorrow to visit with family.  I will have my laptop with me, so I’ll still be writing articles while I’m there.  Still have about 13 more albums to review for the month of September, so prepare to be wowed by these impressive indie artists.

RACHEL ARIANNA LAUNCHES ANTI-BULLYING CAMPAIGN

We first learned about Rachel Arianna when she was nine years old, and released a song that truly touched our heart, “Walking Away With Your Heart.”  Well, four years have passed and Arianna, now 13, has released her new video for “Imperfect” which was spotlighted in the Huffington Post on Friday.  We are so proud of the stand this young lady is making, and we believe she will be making music for a long time to come.  This video brought us to tears.

JAY TINSKY AND FRIENDS SHOW LOVE TO HARVEY VICTIMS

Long-time booker Jay Tinsky, like so many of us, was impacted by the tragic events of Hurricane Harvey.  He reached out to some of the myriad of artists that have played his venues, and set up several benefit shows at Molly Malone’s in Los Angeles and Dante’s in Portland.  He still has one show left on September 26, if  you missed the first one on September 17.  Multiple LA Music Critic Award winner Shannon Hurley was one of the artists who played that first show.  Not only did she donate her talents to the benefit, she also wrote a song and made a lyric video of the song, “Love Wins.”  Thank you to all who performed and especially to Tinsky for organizing the events.

NEW MUSIC

If you’re like us, you need something dreamy to get your week off to a good start.  If that’s the case, check out the new single from Nightshifts, “All Along.”  We think it might give you the chill needed to get through your Monday.

Now that you’ve been chilled, here’s something upbeat and electronic to jump start your day.  We really love the sound of this single, and hope you will too.  Here’s “Drive” by Lael.

Our final single today should guarantee a good musical day, with its upbeat groove, impeccable vocals and overall musical excellence.  Check out “Ayo” by Isac Elliot.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today comes from one of our favorite publicists, Laura Goldfarb of Red Boot PR.  It is from the group Pet Fangs, and is their first video,  “Gold Coast Dreaming.”  We think it’s another winner for the reining queen of indie promo.

Next up is the new single from Emma Cairo which we reviewed last week.  Here is her video for “L.A.,” one of the best songs on her new album.  We think you’re gonna love it as well.

Last but not least this week is the latest from indie pop icon and multiple LA Music Critic Award winner Katie Costello, who has consistently delivered some of the best videos in the world.  Here’s her song, “Hearts on Fire,” from her current album, New World.  Turn this one up!

 

 

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2017: Vol. 30

Happy Monday.  We survived the Western Montana Fair, and enjoyed some nice performances from Seattle’s Miller Campbell and other local bands.  This week we’re headed to Livingston to see our friends Redhead Express  at Music Ranch Montana, as well as to Polson for the Women of the Blues salute at the Flathead Lake Blues Festival featuring LA Music Critic Award winner for Best Blues Band, Polly O’Keary and the Rhythm Method.  Should be a great week.

INDIE NEWS

Seems like you can teach an old dog new tricks, at least in the case of veteran performer Frank Shiner.  A recent convert to Spotify, Shiner’s music has been blowing up lately, with nearly 25,000 streams of his latest single “Drink You Away” in just the past two weeks.  Shiner is averaging more than 22,000 streams a month.  Check him out on Spotify.

Nashville’s Risa Binder is another indie artist who is blowing up on the charts.  She recently reached #77 on the Music Row Chart with her current single “You Haul.”  Check out the video for the song.

NEW MUSIC

Check out this new single, “Money on it” by together PANGEA, from their new album Bulls and Roosters which will be released on August 25 on Nettwerk Records.  We think you’ll like it.

Like the haunting sounds of artists like Tori Amos and Enya?  Check out the latest single from Hannah Park, “Not Like You.”  Please let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We mentioned we were going to see Redhead Express this week.  They have recently released a new music video as an entry into Ryan Seacrest’s “Best Cover Ever” contest.  It is a cover of “I Got You” by pop artist Bebe Rexha, and we think you will love it.

Blue Élan artist Chelsea Williams has released a live studio video of her new single, “Anything Worth Saving,” from her recently released album Boomerang.  Please let us know what you think.

Last but not least this week is the first Christian music video from Spokane native Chris Chilton, co-written and produced by another Spokane indie legend, Jerad Finck.  Please check out the lyric video for “Adonai,” an amazing song of worship for today.