Tag: indie music

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

Get it or forget it – Shane Guerrette, DJ Robert Luis, Destroy Boys, BlissBliss, Tolliver

We’re back with another edition of Get it or Forget it, now working on the first half of 2019 cycle for the LA Music Critic Awards.  During our down time, the requests just kept coming in, and we have almost 100 submissions already for this next cycle.  Let’s get this party started!

Shane Guerrette.jpg

Artist Name:  Shane Guerrette

Album Name:  Shane Guerrette

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Blues/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Nomadic Soul; 2.  Ivory and Gold; 3.  Runaway Blues; 4.  Good Times

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Shane Guerrette is a new breed of artist, who cultivated his following on YouTube before deciding to release his first EP, which was produced by Bob Cutarella, who has worked with the likes of Eric Clapton, Billy Gibbons and Jeff Beck.  Bob obviously heard something he liked in this young man’s music, and we are here to tell you to believe the hype.  Starting off with the first single, “Nomadic Soul,” this EP gets off to a rocking start and leaves no doubt that this young man will soon become a household name.  His music packs a wallop, and is radio-friendly and ready.  We only wish there were more than four songs here because we could listen to his music all day.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one.

Shapes Mountains

Artist Name:  DJ Robert Luis (various artists)

Album Name:  Shapes:  Mountains

Label:  Tru Thoughts Recordings

Genre:  Label Compilation

Track Listing:  1.  The List (Moonchild); 2.  Distant Heart (Wrongtom remix) (The Seshen); 3.  Vortex Number 9 (Uniting of Opposites); 4.  Night Driving (Ivy Lab remix) (Rhi); 5.  Glass Games (Werkha ft Bryony Jarman-Pinto); 6.  Blue (Space Captain); 7.  Habesha (TeÀmir); 8.  California Love (Sly5thAve ft Cory Henry); 9.  Ojos Vicheros (Quantic and Nidia Gongora); 10.  Can’t Nobody Get Down (Alphabets Heaven remix) (Hot 8 Brass Band; 11.  Run Away (Eric Lau & Kaidi Tatham remix) (Moonchild); 12.  It’ll Come (Belleruche); 13.  Hotline Bling (Quantic y Los Miticos del Ritmo); 14.  A GCSE in Dub (Wrongtom Meets the Ragga Twins); 15.  Little Steps Dub (Prince Fatty Meets Nostalgia 77); 16.  All I Know (Rhi remix) (The Seshen); 17.  Freezing Point (Poppy Ackroyd reimagining) (Manuu Delago); 18.  Wingbeats (Max Cooper remix) (Hidden Orchestra); 19.  Passing Time (Nonames ft Alexa Harley); 20.  J-Freq (J-Felix); 21.  Car Number 27/Mr. Alpo (Tim Deluxe remix) (Uniting of Opposites); 22.  Testimony (Anchorsong); 23.  Find my Way (Aurora Dee Raynes); 24.  Air Sign (KXNGS); 25.  Backbeat (Jonny Faith); 26.  Amor en Francia (Sideswipe remix) (Quantic & Nidia Gongora; 27.  Cherry Glow (Chug remix) (Rhi); 28.  Original Nuttah (Magic Drum Orchestra (ft Bunty); 29.  Foundation (Durrty Goodz ft Flowdan & Sharky Major); 30.  Bodybag (Flowdan ft Irah); 31.  Raving Bully (Sleepin’ Giantz); 32.  Still D.R.E. (Ed West remix) (Sly5thAve)

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Tru Thoughts Recordings has been turning out quality records for the past 19 years.  With the assistance of DJ Robert Luis, co-owner and A&R of Tru Thoughts, they have put together a dynamic collection of quality original songs and remixes.  These songs span the musical gamut from old skool R&B, pop, funk and jazz to reggae, dub step, world and electronic.  Best tracks include “Glass Games,” “Blue,” “California Love,” “Runaway,” “It’ll Come,” “Testimony,” “Find my Way,” “Backbeat,” “Amor en Francia,” and “Still D.R.E.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out – we’re sure you’ll find something you like here.

Destroy Boys

Artist Name:  Destroy Boys

Album Name:  Make Room

Label:  Uncool Records

Genre:   Riot Grrl Punk Rock

Track Listing:  1.  American River; 2.  Methatonin; 3.  Vixen; 4.  Nerve; 5.  BFF; 6.  Piedmont; 7.  Crybaby; 8.  Gold Medal; 9.  Duck Eat Duck World; 10.  Soundproof

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Destroy Boys bring their own version of punk-infused rock and roll that is more akin to the sound of The Runaways and Shiragirl than The Ramones.  Lead singer Alexia Roditis’ powerful pipes and haunting melodies combined with Vi Mayugba’s shredding guitar licks are both an homage and an evolution of all things classically punk. They have already impressed legendary Green Day singer Billie Joe Armstrong, who mentioned the band by name when he was interviewed by Rolling Stone Magazine.  Equally impressive is that at the time, neither Roditis or Mayugba had even graduated from high school.  Although both are enrolled at Mills College in Oakland, we believe their impressive musicianship will ensure that they won’t need to fall back on their future college degree.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one and hop on their train before it leaves the station.

blissbliss

Artist Name:  BlissBliss

Album Name:  3

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Right Where you Are; 2.  I’m Coming Through; 3.  No Apology; 4.  Unshakable; 5.  Bulletproof

Publicist:  Heapsaflash

Review:  We featured the video for their first single, “Right Where you Are,” in our Ten Amazing Videos from November 2018, and were simply floored by the old school R&B/pop smoothness of Rene Garcia and Lang Bliss, aka BlissBliss.  Their sound is truly sophisticated and should appeal to music fans of all ages.  All five of these songs are killa and deserve to be put on a loop.  You’ll want to hear them over and over again.  They are jazzy and radio friendly for a myriad of formats.

Recommendation:  Run out and Get this one.

Tolliver

Artist Name:  Tolliver

Album Name:  Rites

Label:  Icons Creating Evil Art

Genre:  Alt R&B

Track Listing:  1.  I Gotchu; 2.  Emmanuel; 3.  Picture of you Naked; 4.  Twisted

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  Born the son of a Baptist minister, Tolliver embraces both the angel and devil in himself with these four songs about not only the pleasures of doing bad things, but the consequences of those actions.  The words come from not only his gospel upbringing but personal experience, and he feels comfortable talking about both sides of the equation.  His music is sensual and smooth, but also full of wisdom he has learned.  Ultimately, he leaves it to the listener to decide whether the consequences are worth the pleasure.  Lots of food for thought in these four songs.

Recommendation:  We highly recommend you check this one out.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 45

OMG – did you see the end of the Miami-New England game?  That amazing 69-yard pass/lateral that resulted in a Miami touchdown and a win over our arch-rival the Patriots?  That was one of the best games we have seen in many years, and so happy we were able to pull it off.  We are also happy for all the nominees of the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018.  Remember, fans can ONLY vote for the Fan Favorite award, so leave your vote as a comment on the announcement article by saving “I vote for (name of artist or band) for Fan Favorite.”

Now that the nominations are out of the way, we have a wonderful Monday Mashup for you today, with five new singles and videos including some holiday tunes.  We hope you enjoy them.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from LA alt-rock band Swerve.  It is a hard rocking tune called “She Cut Her Hand,” and we like it a lot.  Swerve originally began as a moniker for music created by Los Angeles native Greg Mahdesian. But what initially began as a solo project eventually became a full-fledged band. Greg solely composed all of the songs on Swerve’s self-titled debut EP and hired producer Brandon Duncan to record them. So, when it came time to recruit musicians in order to perform live, Greg naturally asked Brandon to join on bass, his old college friend, Ryan Berti, on guitar, and Mark Gardner on drums.

Next up is a holiday cover from Israeli rock goddess Ninet.  We love the simple stylings of “Sweet Chariot” and hope it puts you in the proper mood for the holidays.

For our third single, we head up to Sweden for the beautiful voice and similarly simple arrangement of Marlene Oak on her latest song, “In the Evening.”  Enjoy this masterful and soaring song.

Next is a pop gem from Dollshot called “Paradise Flat.”  This one is not your ordinary pop tune, and we relish its uniqueness, with sparkling jazz stylings. Please let us know what you think.

Our final single is another amazing holiday song, this time featuring the incredible voices of Mallory Trunnel and Lauren Harding, otherwise known as Crimson Calamity.  This may well become our favorite new holiday song.

https://soundcloud.com/crimson-calamity/first-snow/

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We tried to share this one a couple of weeks ago, but it was not released until December 7.  The video was shot in Portland and we think it is very well done.  Check out the amazing Hayley Lynn, who shot this video in one take, and her incredible pipes amid the beautiful backdrop on her song, “Valentine, Too Soon.”

From the beautiful to the different, we bring you the latest from Luna Neptune, who are sharing the “Next Automated Wave.”  They are another European band, and we hope they come play the States in the not too distant future.

Our third video features the truly hip sounds of Saving Forever.  We think you’ll love it, so let’s make some “Memories.”

Our fourth video is a lo-tech lyric video from Alex Bloom.  We love the simpleness of the shoot but the intensity of the lyrics on his song, “Elevator.”  What do you think?

We close out this week with a cover of one of our all-time favorite holiday songs, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.”  This time around it is covered by the lovely and extremely talented Arlene Zelina, and we think it provides the perfect sentiment for the season.  See you again soon.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Amazing Videos Women in Entertainment

Ten amazing videos released in November 2018

We are so happy to have finally finished preparing the list of nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards, and they will be announced tomorrow morning at 9 a.m.  While you wait, here are ten amazing videos that were not chosen for Monday Mashup features, but which we thought deserved recognition.

We start things off with a beautiful video about reconciliation.  We fully agree with the sentiments expressed in the song “Right Where You Are” by BlissBliss.

Next up is an amazingly fun video about the end of the world, as visualized for “Lazer Queen” by I Love You Honey Bunny.  They are a Czech band and we love their vision.

Our third single is one of the most beautiful protest songs we have ever heard.  Stephen Michael Murphy and InfiniteTolerance.com have joined forces with General Steel to give us the reggae sound of “African Mamas.”  Watch for the Bob Marley cameo at the end.  #StopInjustice

Video number four is another beautiful collaboration, this time between D’Sound and Armi Millare on the single “Lykkelig.”  This one is the perfect segue and should keep the music grooving.

Our next video is a tongue-in-cheek look at the powerful “Alexa” and the hazards of online purchasing.  Laugh along with Beans on Toast but take the sentiment behind the video as seriously as he does.

Our sixth video features the Janis Joplin-like vocals of Ninet on her powerful song “Self Destructive Mind.”  This one is packed with food for thought.

Reason/Define is an all-female post-hardcore band that puts the rock in rock and roll.  Their latest video is a powerful statement about “Pointing Fingers,” and we think you need to pay attention.  This band is definitely going on our radar.

Our eighth video has stunning cinematography and the sweet voice of Kiyomi Hawley for her single “Meet you There.”  We love the feelings this song generates, and think it is a perfect song for this time of the year.

Our next video is about “Revenge” and is from Static Noize, a  hip-hop duo from the small Western Australian area of Burundi.  Check out the beat on this one.

Our final video this month is from LA Music Critic Award-winning prog-rock band Orissa.  Check out this live performance of their song “Blue Communion,” and check out those dancers.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Ten Great Singles Women in Entertainment

Ten great singles released in November 2018

Well, it’s been a busy week preparing the list of nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards, which will be announced tomorrow morning at 9 a.m.  While you wait, here are ten great singles that were not chosen for Monday Mashup features, but which we thought deserved recognition.

First up is the second single from Noctorum, featuring Marty Wilson-Piper, the former lead singer of The Church.  The single is a soft rocker that is the perfect sound for your early morning music fix and is called “Piccadilly Circus in the Rain.”  Let us know what you think.

Next up is “Infinite Swim,” which has a decidedly 80’s retro sound, with big beats and cool vocals, and comes to us courtesy of the Irish band All Tvvins.  We can’t wait to hear and review the rest of the album when it is released next year.

For our next single, we travel to Amsterdam for the latest from the Moon Tapes.  If there was an award for the strangest song title, they would win it hands down.  Check out the noir-pop sound of “Tonight I’ll Write the Saddest Lines.”

From noir-pop we return to rock-n-roll, with the latest offering from Jon Tessier, “Freak I Need.”  This one will put some 70’s rock flavor into your day.

At single number five is K-Pop phenom Monsta X, who has released their first all-English song, “Shoot Out.”  We reviewed their album last week, and were impressed by the multiple genres these lads have mastered, and look forward to what comes next.  Get down to this one.

We kick off the second five singles with this refreshing country song from form The Voice contestant, Lauren Duski.  This one is a future hit, and it definitely makes our “Heart Hurt Good.”

Single number seven is from an iconic reggae singer who has returned with a fun, upbeat tune that will get you ready for summer in the middle of winter.  Check out “Use Me” from Shaggy.

For our next single, we go from reggae to the R&B/Pop sound of Australian YouTube sensation Arlene Zelina.  We love the smooth sound of “Dream of Me” and think you will too.

Single number nine features another amazing female voice with the sultry sound of Ariel Gold.  This one has the perfect driving drum beat, truly amazing vocals and an upbeat song the belies its title, “Blue.”  Let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/bigmanagement/ariel-gold-blue/s-CTDv7

We close out this edition of Ten Great Singles with a beautiful collaborative effort, courtesy of our friends at the Durango Songwriters Expo.  The song was written by Scott Krippayne and Jeff Peabody for the late Neal E. Boyd, winner of America’s Got Talent in 2008.  The orchestration was recorded and the song was mixed and mastered by Brandon K. Guttenfelder.  We think it is the perfect holiday song.  Enjoy “Not so Silent Night.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – Lauren Jaimes, del-Toros, Jason Erie, The Dream Logic, Hollie Haines

This is our final Get it or Forget it of the current LA Music Critic Awards cycle, and it has been a wild ride over the past six months.  We wish we could give awards to every one of them, but that is not possible, so we will continue to sort through them before announcing the nominations on December 7.  We hope you have enjoyed checking them out as much as we have enjoyed reviewing them.

Artist Name:  Lauren Jaimes

Album Name:  Here to Stay

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Country

Track Listing:  1.  Worn out Memory; 2.  Song to Pa; 3.  Leave the Light On; 4.  Need You More; 5.  Real Bad Habit; 6.  Cherry Pie

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Country radio has a new sweetheart in the music of Lauren Jaimes, who combines the best of Kacey Musgraves, Miranda Lambert and Kelsea Ballerini.  The songs come from the heart, and that passion comes through loud and clear, especially on the very personal “Song to Pa.”  We love every track on this EP, and think it is one of the very best of 2018.  “Leave the Light On” is a hit, and deserves serious rotations now.  We love her vocals and these well-written songs, and intend to put them on repeat.

Recommendation:  Go.  Get.  This.

Artist Name:  del-Toros

Album Name:  Ten Stories High

Label:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Genre:  Alt Surf-rock Instrumental

Track Listing:  1.  Don’t Wipe; 2.  Octowave; 3.  End of the World; 4.  Halloween Theme; 5.  21-74 (ft Bertus Borgers); 6.  Gingerchord; 7.  SoCal Killings; 8.  King of the Rockettool (ft Peter te Bos); 9.  Loose Lips; 10.  Theme for Great Cities

Publicist:  Down at the Nightclub Records

Review:  The Netherlands continues to impress with another one of their bands.  The music of del-Toros is sort of like Dick Dale on speed, with a harder edge to the signature surf rock sound.  The album contains nine instrumental tracks, with the only vocals coming from Peter te Bos (Claw Boys Claw) on the track “King of the Rockettool.”  We really love their interpretation of the “Halloween Theme.”  This one is a keeper.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Jason Erie

Album Name:  The Art of Letting Go

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Folk/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Talking to Chairs; 2.  Conversation with a Bottle; 3.  Lorelai; 4.  Black Lung; 5.  Gold Rush; 6.  The Art of Letting Go; 7.  Some Kind of Way

Publicist:  Brennan Management

Review:  Jason Erie reveals a lot about his life in this seven-song collection of modern-day folk songs.  He talks about growing up in a broken home, watching his mother suffer from alcohol addiction and his father give everything to his job, and having to grow up faster than normal.  While not so much protest songs, these tunes are reminiscent of the legacy of Woody Guthrie with a little bit of Dolly Parton wit and wisdom.   We really love the rocking sound of “Conversation with a Bottle,” as well as the haunting vocal duet and tantalizing fiddle on “Gold Rush.”  The final track “Some Kind of Way” has a John Mellencamp feel that would make it a great radio single.

Recommendation:  This one will haunt you if you don’t Get it now.  Jump on this train before it leaves the station.

Artist Name:  The Dream Logic

Album Name:  Liquid Sunshine

Label:  Chaos Music

Genre:  Jam/Blues Fusion

Track Listing:  1.  Fakes and Fools; 2.  Without You; 3.  The Spider; 4.  I’m Gonna Take it From You; 5.  Queen of Hearts; 6.  Liquid Sunshine; 7.  I’m Afraid to Speak; 8.  A Beautiful Thrill; 9.  The Kiss Off; 10.  Looking Into the Future; 11.  Kinda You; 12.  You Wrecked Me; 13.  Disconnected

Publicist:  Two Sheps That Pass

Review:  NYC gives us yet another amazing jam band with the latest offering from Charles Compo, Camille Gainer and Jerry Brooks, collectively known as The Dream Logic.  Their brand of rock and roll fuses elements of jam, funk, acid jazz and blues, along with a touch of 60s soul.  Gainer’s drums fit seamlessly with Brooks’ funky bass beat to lay the perfect foundation for multi-instrumentalist/vocalist Compo to complete.  This is the perfect soundtrack for every day, with a funky groove that is uniquely theirs.  You will definitely want to put this one on repeat.

Recommendation:  Run, don’t walk, and Get this one NOW!

Artist Name:  Hollie Haines

Album Name:  Letters to my Last Love

Label:  Championed by 6 Music

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Except for You; 2.  Like I Used To; 3.  All You Did; 4.  Since You’ve Been Gone; 5.  I Got Through, Babe; 6.  Better; 7.  Mine

Publicist:  Lander PR

Review:  With a vocal style reminiscent of Enya, Hollie Haines brings a haunting and electrifying sound to her dreamy folk songs.  Her contemporary touch is refreshing, making this album perfect for chill time or when you just want to reflect on life.  The chamber orchestration adds to this feeling of well-being that comes through crystal clear, despite the sometimes melancholy lyrics.  These are songs that are instantly memorable, and will haunt you like few other artists’ songs can.  The vocal harmonies on “Since You’ve Been Gone” are heavenly, and add to the mystique of the song.  We also love the tongue-in-cheek tribute to Sonny and Cher in her song “I Got Through, Babe.”

Recommendation:  We highly recommend this one.  Go Get it!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Hadden Sayers, Popa Chubby, Mariel Austin, Paper Gliders, The RG’s

We started sorting through the nearly 500 submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018 yesterday.  There were so many great albums submitted it is going to be a very difficult job for our committee to choose the nominations, but we think you will be happy with our choices.  Start thinking about your fan favorite because the voting will open on Friday and run for three weeks.  The winners will be announced on January 4.  In the meantime, we have five more new releases to share, so here we go.

   

Artist Name:  Hadden Sayers

Album Name:  Dopamine Machine/Acoustic Dopamine

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Unsatisfied; 2.  I Feel Love; 3.  Hit the Road; 4.  Blood Red Coupe DeVille; 5.  Wanting Wanting; 6.  Good Good Girl; 7.  Learning to Disappear; 8.  Peppermint Patty; 9.  Dopamine Machine; 10.  Gravity; 11.  Backbreaker

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  Hadden Sayers is one of the hardest rocking blues guitarist in the world.  Even Billy Gibbons looks up to him.  This time around not only has he released a killer album in Dopamine Machine, but he has also recorded a companion acoustic album of the same songs, with nothing but the sweet voice of Ruthie Foster to help him.  This masterpiece is definitely one of the best blues rock albums we have ever had the privilege of reviewing.  We can’t choose the best tracks because all 11 of them are smoking hot, especially the lead track “Unsatisfied” and the smooth blues sound of “Blood Red Coupe DeVille.”  This album needs to be heard again and again.

Recommendation:  Do whatever it takes to Get both of these albums.  They deserve the highest place in your musical collection.

Artist Name:  Popa Chubby

Album Name:  Prime Cuts (The Very Best of the Beast From the East)

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues

Track Listing:  1.  Life is a Beat Down; 2.  Angel on my Shoulder; 3.  Hey Joe; 4.  Stoop Down Baby; 5.  Sweet Goodness of Love and Beer; 6.  San Catri; 7.  Caffeine and Nicotine; 8.  Grown Man Crying Blues; 9.  Go Fuck Yourself (ft Theodora Horowitz); 10.  Hallelujah; 11.  Somebody let the Devil Out; 12.  I Can’t see the Light of Day; 13.  Dirty Lie; 14.  Daddy Played the Guitar; 15.  There on Christmas

Publicist:  Frank Roszak Promotions

Review:  NYC-based Popa Chubby is a beast on the blues guitar, and in this collection he has chosen his favorite tracks from his 30 year career, including an incredible cover of the Leonard Cohen classic, “Hallelujah.”  He also includes a previously unreleased political rant appropriately called “Go Fuck Yourself,”  which features his daughter on violin, as well as a holiday track, “There on Christmas.”  This is traditional blues at its best, and will appeal to every true blues lover.  As he says in “Angel on my Shoulder,” “spread your wings and fly.”

Recommendation:  If you love the blues, then this is a must-have for your collection.  Get it today!

Artist Name:  Mariel Austin

Album Name:  Runner in the Rain

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Jazz

Track Listing:  1.  A Rough, Unsorted Compiling of Ways not to Exist; 2.  Night Dreamer; 3.  Mirrorshift; 4.  One-way Journey Home; 5.  Runner in the Rain

Publicist:  Mouthpiece Music

Review:  Up and coming jazz trombonist Mariel Austin is also a producer, arranger and composer, and she has created this short but sweet five-song masterpiece especially for big band as an introduction of sorts.  On her debut EP, she shows why she is an award winning jazz musician, and provides a beautiful soundtrack for your everyday life.  This is the perfect album to introduce your friends to the beauty of jazz.

Recommendation:  Definitely add this one to your list.

Artist Name:  Paper Gliders

Album Name:  Trials

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  This Magazine Scene; 2.  Petri Dish; 3.  Birthday Candles

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  With harmonies galore and a brilliant progressive pop sound, Houston’s own Paper Gliders make beautiful music together.  This all-too-short three-song EP gives us just a taste of their brilliance, and whets our appetite for their first full-length album.  The guitars are dreamy as are the vocals, and the well-crafted songs are truly radio friendly.  We think they have a great future in store and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Recommendation:  Definitely take a chance on this band.  They are truly worthy of future stardom.

Artist Name:  The RG’s

Album Name:  The Cricket Sound

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Bored Ass Tony; 2.  Stevie, the guy who Didn’t pay Us; 3.  The Cricket Sound; 4.  Dirty Allan; 5.  All Day; 6.  Keep Your Secrets; 7.  Dead Inside; 8.  My Friend Ed; 9.  Smack Your Neighbor

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  The RG’s are a Belgian band that brings the rock in the style of Queens of the Stone Age, Alice in Chains and Rival Sons.  Although the music has a hard edge, it is melodic, much like Metallica.  The vocals stand-out and are easily understandable,  contrary to the usual screaming of most hard rock bands.  Much like Taylor Swift, these songs are written about their real-life encounters with people, so don’t piss them off or you might become a song in their catalog, like “Stevie, the Guy Who Didn’t Pay Us.”

Recommendation:  If you like your rock on the hard side, then definitely check out this band.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Grant the Sun, The Skiffle Players, Grave Danger, New London Fire, Air for Ants

Happy Friday.  Tomorrow is the first day of December, and the nominations for the second half of 2018 for the LA Music Critic Awards will be announced on December 7.  As we finish off the final reviews, here are five more for your consideration, including one that is being released today.  Enjoy.

Artist Name:   Grant the Sun

Album Name:  Simmar Ur Bild

Label:   Mas-Kina Recordings

Genre:   Instrumental Metal

Track Listing:   1.  Simmar ur Bild; 2.  Ondskans Vakmastare; 3.  Tje Kjonoj; 4.  Sjuttonde Maj

Publicist:   Viral Propaganda PR

Review:   Grant the Sun is a trio from Norway, featuring founding members of the band Insense, Havard Sveberg and Martin Rygge (who is also the guitarist for Beaten To Death) and childhood friend and guitar virtuoso Markus Lillehaug Johnsen.   The band creates instrumental metal inspired by such bands as Devin Townsend, Extol and Meshuggah.  The music is complex and well-written, and could be useful as placements in commercials, as well as film and television.  It is not overpowering, but melodic metal that excites all the senses.  It is a combination of prog-rock and metal that should appeal to most rock music lovers.

Recommendation:   Definitely give this one a spin – we think you will be delighted by the subtleties and complexities of their sound.

Artist Name:   The Skiffle Players

Album Name:   Skiff

Label:   Spiritual Pajamas

Genre:   Indie Rock

Track Listing:   1.  Cara; 2.  Local Boy; 3.  You’ll Miss it When it’s Gone; 4.  The Law Offices of Dewey, Cheatum and Howe; 5.  Wham!; 6.  Long Horns, Long Necks, Long Legs; 7.  Herbamera; 8.  Los Angeles Alleyway; 9.  Skiffleman; 10.  Harsh Toke; 11.  Oakland Scottish Rite Temple Waltz; 12.  Santa Fe; 13.  Sweet Georgia Brown

Publicist:   Calabro Music Media

Review:   We had the pleasure of reviewing their previous EP Piffle Sayers back in August, and their full length album was definitely worth the wait.  Picking up where their EP left off, they have launched their ship even further into the deep, adding what they call “acoustic dance music” to their more traditional folk sound.  We love the country vibe on their first single, “Local Boy,” and the retro feel of “You’ll Miss it When It’s Gone.”   “Wham!” seems like a natural segue from the classic country song “Baby Likes to Rock It” by The Tractors.  This one is fun from start to finish, and we think there’s something for everyone within these songs.  Of course, it wouldn’t be complete without a traditional Skiffle romp through the classic song, “Sweet Georgia Brown.”

Recommendation:   Get it!

Artist Name:   Grave Danger

Album Name:   Let ‘er RIP

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Ska-Goth (Skath)

Track Listing:   1.  Grave Danger; 2.  Escape From Skull City; 3.  Too Ghoul for School

Publicist:   Earshot Media

Review:   Grave Danger have taken ska and combined it with goth, creating a form of music they call skath.  It is a natural progression from the music of Oingo Boingo, and it has all the great vibe of that amazing band.  It was released on October 26, but we couldn’t get to it before Halloween.  Never fear – you don’t have to wait until next Halloween to enjoy this three-song masterpiece.   It will make you “Too Ghoul for School.”

Recommendation:   This one is a hoot – get it!

Artist Name:   New London Fire

Album Name:   Tired of This Man

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Folk-Rock/Americana

Track Listing:   1.  The Fire; 2.  Tired of This Man; 3.  Now I’m Found; 4.  I Still Believe; 5.  You Know I Would; 6.  I Hope You Hear This Song; 7.  Momma It’s Alright; 8.  Abigail; 9.  When it Gets Hard; 10.  Rise Above

Publicist:   Behind the Curtains Media

Review:   Combine the fun of Mumford & Sons with the Celtic vibe of Flogging Molly and the folkiness of The Decemberists and you get New London Fire.  The lyrics are well-crafted and politically on point, and will definitely give you food for thought.  They hit the ground running on “The Fire,” and never let up.  They issue a call to unity and Americanism and provide empowerment to not forget the lessons of the past but use them to grow together, not apart.  This one is definitely going on repeat, as every track has something to offer.  Favorite tracks include “The Fire,” “Now I’m Found,” “I Still Believe,” “You Know I Would,” “I Hope You Hear This Song,” “Abigail,” and “Rise Above.”

Recommendation:   Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:   Air for Ants

Album Name:   Once Again With Feeling

Label:   Self-released

Genre:   Indie Rock/Pop

Track Listing:   1.  We’re Together; 2.  Like a Lion or a Tiger or a Bear; 3.  The Loner; 4.  Privyet; 5.  Pieces; 6.  Did You Know You’re Gold; 7.  Cig

Publicist:   Behind the Curtains Media

Review:   Dominic Sahagun’s vocals shine on the latest for Air for Ants, which mixes ambient pop with elements of electronic music, jazz and funk to form their own version of Indie Rock that is uniquely theirs.  Sahagun, a professor at Berklee College of Music, has received high praise from the likes of Kenneth “Babyface” Edmonds and Ken Nelson, the producer for Coldplay, and you should definitely believe the hype.  This is one of the most interesting albums we have reviewed this year, and we look forward to repeated listens to capture all the nuances of their craft.  This one is just plain fun and truly belongs on the radio.

Recommendation:   Go Get it now!

 

 

Categories
Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Monsta X, Calvin Arsenia, Lost in Japan, Dustin Tebbutt, Dave Tamkin

The indie music scene never sleeps, and we have five more great releases to share with you that demonstrate this obsession.  Let’s keep the train going.

Artist Name:  Monsta X

Album Name:  Are you There?

Label:  Starship Entertainment

Genre:  K-Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Intro:  Are you There?; 2.  Underwater; 3.  Shoot Out; 4.  Heart Attack; 5.  I Do Love U; 6.  Mohae; 7.  Oh My; 8.  Myself; 9.  By my Side; 10.  Spotlight (Korean version)

Publicist:  Gramophone Media

Review:  Boy bands never went away, they just moved to Asia and became K-Pop.  On the other hand, although technically a “boy band”, Monsta X is so much more, combining elements of EDM, PBR&B, Latin rhythm, trap, rock, along with their signature English and Korean sound to keep the listener on their toes.  Not only is their second album a stand-out, but the band is making history by becoming the first K-Pop band to ever play the main stage at the annual KIIS FM Jingle Ball concert, performing on November 30.  We only wish we could be there to watch them shine.  If you are in LA, their performance alone would be worth the price of admission.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one and put it on repeat.

Artist Name:  Calvin Arsenia

Album Name:  Cantaloupe

Label:  Big City Records/Bulleseye Records

Genre:  Jazz/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Headlights; 2.  Tip Toe; 3.  Equally; 4.  Back to You; 5.  Toxic; 6.  Doomed; 7.  The Game; 8.  Palaces; 9.  Poseidon; 10.  Cantaloupe

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Calvin Arsenia is a harpist, singer and multi-instrumentalist from Kansas City who is not satisfied to just play music.  His goal is to transform the listener, while educating them on how to find themselves in the midst of people that want to run their life.  He does this by merging jazz, soul, folk, classical and pop music, creating a sound that Atwood Magazine calls “vibrant, soul-tinged alternative folk,” doing for the harp what Lindsay Sterling has done for the violin.  His voice is smooth, much like John Legend, and this sound will electrify your senses, whether he’s doing one of his originals like his first single, “Headlights” or totally re-creating an amazing cover like Brittney Spears‘ “Toxic.”  This one is going on repeat, especially that amazing title track that closes this masterpiece collection.

Recommendation:  Run don’t walk and Get this one!

Artist Name:  Lost in Japan

Album Name:  Lost in Japan

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Lighthouse; 2.  Fake Answers; 3.  Message in the Stars; 4.  For Your Heart; 5.  Good for Now; 6.  Orpheus; 7.  Never was You; 8.  Chasing Time; 9.  Waves; 10.  Don’t Want to let Go; 11.  Passing Through; 12.  Lighthouse pt II

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  This Canadian band has everything they need to make it on the American music scene – amazing vocals, well written songs, perfect musical accompaniment, great guitars, and a chemistry that is palpable.  If you like the music of Maroon 5, then you will love these guys.  From the first notes of “Lighthouse,” you can feel the greatness bubbling up, and it continues to build until the last note of the album.  Although the entire album is amazing, we really loved the sound of “Fake Answers,” “Message in the Stars,” “Good for Now,” “Orpheus,” “Chasing Time,” “Waves,” and “Passing Through.”

Recommendation:  Jump on this train while you still can – they are definitely going places.

Artist Name:  Dustin Tebbutt

Album Name:  Chasing Gold

Label:  Narvik Records

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Satellite; 2.  Chasing Gold; 3.  Satellite II; 4.  Love is Blind; 5.  All Your Love; 6.  Innerbloom (ft Lisa Mitchell); 7.  Atlas in Your Eyes (for Jasper Jones)

Publicist:  AntiFragile Music

Review:  Dustin Tebbutt is Australia’s version of the UK’s Ed Sheeran,   He has that same haunting vibe to his voice, with well-crafted lyrical content and perfect and simple accompaniment that highlights the vocals.  The title cut is Top 40 worthy, and his library should be a staple on American radio stations.  These songs would also work well for placement in film and television, as they have a sweeping cinematic sound, especially the second half of the title track.  Other amazing tracks include “Love is Blind,” “All Your Love,” the amazing duet with Lisa Mitchell on “Innerbloom,” and “Atlas in Your Eyes.”

Recommendation:  Make this one a priority and Get it soon.

Artist Name:  Dave Tamkin

Album Name:  Live at eTown

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Singer-songwriter Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Bleeding Orange; 2.  Demons are You; 3.  Fly Me; 4.  Drift; 5.  Mary; 6.  Tuesday; 7.  Thoughts up Here

Publicist:  Pressed Fresh PR

Review:  With a sound somewhere between Cat Stevens and Jim Croce, Boulder’s own Dave Tamkin delivers a sweet package of musical delights.  His first track “Bleeding Orange” is about butterflies.  The remainder of the tracks are equally amazing, and there are no weak tracks on the album.  We think this one deserves to be on repeat, and we can’t stop listening over and over again, especially “Bleeding Orange,” “Fly Me,” “Drift,” “Mary,” and “Thoughts up Here.”

Recommendation:  Don’t be a fool – Get this one too!

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – Band of Silver, Sci-Fi Romance, Lana Blac, Linda Marie Fischer, WHOLE

Happy hump day!  Chugging through these final 25 submissions for this award cycle, and anxious to announce the nominations.  Don’t miss the announcement on December 7.  In the meantime, here are five more artists to check out.

Artist Name:  Band of Silver

Album Name:  In Space!

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Streetlight; 2.  World Domination; 3.  I Follow You; 4.  Welcome to Hollywood; 5.  El Magnifico; 6.  Money; 7.  Space

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  We introduced you to this band a couple of weeks ago when we featured the music video for their first single, “World Domination.”  There’s just something special about siblings and music, and Band of Silver has it in droves.  They are on a mission to save rock and roll, and we think they will be successful.  Taking a page out of the 80s pop/rock soundtrack, they deliver powerful upbeat songs that not only entertain but also educate with timely lyrical content and amazing music.  Lead singer Avery has a powerful voice that meshes perfectly with the amazing sound of her siblings’ musical accompaniment.  This one is a winner.

Recommendation:  Rush out and Get this one – it belongs on repeat!

Artist Name:  Sci-Fi Romance

Album Name:  Dreamers & Runaways

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alt-Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Dreamers & Runaways; 2.  Long Ways Left; 3.  A Beautiful Prison; 4.  The War in Me; 5.  Voices; 6.  The Fight; 7.  Gone Wrong; 8.  Wooden Jesus; 9.  Sunrise; 10.  A Hymn for the  Invisible

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  Critics have compared Sci-Fi Romance to bands like The Decemberists, but we think they stand alone in their uniqueness.  Mixing elements of folk, Americana, punk and metal, they have forged a new blend of alt-folk affectionately known as Steamfolk.  Composed of Vance Kotrla on guitar and vocals, Mr. Mike on drums and Jody Stark on cello, they give us intellectual music with a memorable musical soundtrack.  These songs need multiple listens to capture all the nuances of the lyrics and the intricacies of musical brilliance, but it will be time well spent.  The lyrics were heavily influenced by the 2016 election cycle, and are powerful reminders that we don’t have to sit idly by and watch the destruction of what’s important to us.

Recommendation:  If you like amazing music and intelligent lyrics, this is the album for you – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Lana Blac

Album Name:  Nocturnal

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Dark Rock/Metal

Track Listing:  1.  Suck you In; 2.  Pick Your Poison; 3.  Recipe for Disaster; 4.  The Game; 5.  In the Darkness; 6.  Blac Ice; 7.  Soul Stalker; 8.  Crave

Publicist:  Effective Immediately PR

Review:  Lana Blac is a self-confessed vampire who has been inspired by the likes of In This Moment, Marilyn Manson, Rob Zombie and Evanescence.  While musically she is on par with her influences, she doesn’t quite have the powerful voice of either Maria Brink or Amy Lee, although she definitely has the gothic look down.  She has created some amazingly dark music, and if she converts that into an incredible live show, then she definitely has a chance in this genre.  We think her debut album is a worthy effort, but we would like to see what comes next before jumping on this train.

Recommendation:  Worthy of checking out.

Artist Name:  Linda Marie Fischer

Album Name:  Arc of Love

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Adult Contemporary Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Blasted, Bombed, Being in Love; 2.  Racing to the Moon; 3.  Love in the Ages; 4.  Map of Ice; 5.  Blue in the Heart; 6.  Trails in my Life; 7.  Locking us Forever; 8.  Slow, Slow, Quick, Quick!; 9.  Little Words; 10.  Thinness of the Air; 11.  Holiday Wishes; 12.  Arc of Love (teaser track/video)

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  Bursting on the scene in her later years, much like Bonnie Raitt, this debut album from Linda Marie Fischer blends elements of jazz, blues, R&B and pop into an easy listening, adult contemporary format that is both relaxing and comforting.  These songs reflect on the universal truth of love and all its phases, and the gentle musical accompaniment helps the words sink in.  Fischer has picked the proper format for his well-crafted songs, which should lead her to a successful career.  We think this is a great start, and look forward to what comes next.

Recommendation:  Truly worthy of your attention, especially if you like the music of Ingrid Michaelson, Sara Bareilles, Vanessa Carlton or Barbra Streisand.

Artist Name:  WHOLE

Album Name:  Bias

Label:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Genre:  Indie/Post-punk

Track Listing:  1.  Lust/Terror; 2.  Get Away; 3.  Tides Made by our Hands; 4.  What Scares You; 5.  Bombs Will Drop; 6.  Evenwicht; 7.  Tongue to Machine; 8.  Berghain; 9.  Amsterdam

Publicist:  Blackjack Illuminist Records

Review:  German band WHOLE brings a new take to post-punk with their electrifying performance on Bias.  They combine elements of multiple genres, fastened together with Bono-esque vocals, dreamy guitar riffs, synthwave electronics and a driving beat that will keep you interested and invested in their sound.  They have an 80s retro/ new wave sound obviously inspired by the likes of Depeche Mode and The Cure, demonstrated to perfection on “Tides Made by Our Hands.”

Recommendation:  This one is binge-worthy.  Get it and enjoy.

 

 

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

Get it or forget it – VNV Nation, Big Lonely, Younger Then, Phony Ppl, Nuela Charles

Happy Giving Tuesday.  If you are so inclined, there are a number of worthy charities out there that need your support.  We have posted links to several on our Facebook pages, and encourage you to help others at this time of the year.  To sweeten the deal, we have five more great artists for you to check out as we wind down submissions for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2018:

Artist Name:  VNV Nation

Album Name:  Noir

Label:  Metropolis Records

Genre:  Alternative/Electronic

Track Listing:  1.  A Million; 2.  Armour; 3.  God of All; 4.  Nocturne No. 7; 5.  Collide; 6.  Wonders; 7.  Immersed; 8.  Lights go Out; 9.  Guiding; 10.  When is the Future; 11.  Only Satellites; 12.  Requiem for Wires; 13.  All our Sins

Publicist:  For the Win Media

Review:  If ever there was an album that was custom-built for placement opportunities in film and television, this is it.  The sound is majestic, sweeping and cinematic, with a driving dance beat that would easily also make a great source for house music DJs.  This one takes off from the first notes of “A Million” and never lets up, building to a stunning conclusion.  There is obvious influence from The Cure, especially on “God of All.”  This album truly delivers a great listen from start to finish.  We also love the piano instrumental “Nocturne No. 7,” and the string instrumental “Guiding,” which are a total change of pace from the rest of the album.  We wish them well on their North American tour.

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it – Get this one!

Artist Name:  Big Lonely

Album Name:  Bad Magic

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Just Lose; 2.  Butter on Ice; 3.  Dreamboat; 4.  A Place I’ve Never Been To; 5.  Don’t Fool me Twice; 6.  All at Once; 7.  Ticket; 8.  Up my Sleeve; 9.  Bad Magic

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Canadian band Big Lonely incorporates some Southern Rock guitar into their indie rock style to create memorable music with a retro vibe.  Their music could easily work on American Top 40 and college radio, and we bet their live show is just as dynamic.  “Dreamboat” has a Roy Orbison vibe  You’ll want to listen to this one from start to finish, cause there are no weak tracks.  Enjoy the reflective vibe.

Recommendation:  A definite add to your collection – go Get it.

Artist Name:  Younger Then

Album Name:  Bad Life

Label:  Standby Records

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  All in All; 2.  Lonely Holy; 3.  California King; 4.  Sarah Told Them; 5.  Cherry Glaze; 6.  Sweetest; 7.  Sundazed; 8.  Bad Life; 9.  Luna; 10.  Wishing Tree; 11.  Seasick

Publicist:  Earshot Media

Review:   With a sound somewhere between Kings of Leon and U2, Younger Then burst forth from their humble Buffalo to take on the world of indie rock, and they truly have the goods to make a lasting impression.  They have already gained a healthy reputation for their live shows, and now they have a CD that captures that energy and style and showcases it to the rest of the world.  There is so much good stuff on this 11-song album that everyone should be able to find a favorite.  For us, we love them all, and will give this quite a few listens from start to finish.

Recommendation:  Definitely Get this one!

Artist Name:  Phony Ppl

Album Name: mō’zā-ik.

Label:  300 Entertainment

Genre:  Soul/Funk/R&B

Track Listing:  1.  Way too Far; 2.  Once you say Hello; 3.  Something About you Love; 4.  Cookie Crumble; 5.  The Colours; 6.  One Man Band; 7.  Think You’re Mine; 8.  Move her Mind; 9.  Before you get a Boyfriend; 10.  Either Way; 11.  On Everything I Love

Publicist:  No Big Deal PR

Review:  Phony Ppl is already receiving critical praise from folks like NPR Music, and it quickly becomes obvious that this band cannot be placed in a box according to genre.  Their music encompasses soul, funk, R&B, jazz, rap, and more, with incredible harmonies, and a seamless chemistry that makes it sound more like a jam session than a scripted song.  In truth, the songwriting could use some work, as stretching out the lyrics makes them become obnoxious at times and takes away from the beauty of the music.   Best tracks include “Cookie Crumble,” “Move Her Mind,” their first single/video “Before you Get a Boyfriend,” “Either Way” and “On Everything I Love.”

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  Nuela Charles

Album Name:  Distant Danger

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alternative/Soul

Track Listing:  1.  Troublemaker; 2.  Danger; 3.  Forecast; 4.  Do it Right; 5.  Sugar; 6.  March On

Publicist:  Mystic Sons

Review:  We featured her video for “Danger” in our Ten Amazing Videos of October, and the same single in one of our Monday Mashup articles in September.   Believe us when we tell you this lady has the goods to rule the soul/R&B charts and radio.  We simply love her sense of style, her songwriting and her incredible voice, which are truly personified in her song “Danger.”  All six songs are great and this artist deserves a spot on your repeat button.  We can’t wait to hear what comes next, as she has earned a permanent place in our hearts.

Recommendation:  Run don’t walk and Get this one Today!