Tag: LA Music Critic Awards

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

Get it or forget it – BOYTOY, Bossie, Olan Monk, Dearist, Lauren Anderson

Happy Thursday.  We’re back with five more April releases as we work our way through the mountain of requests in preparation for the next round of the LA Music Critic Awards.  Hope you enjoy these artists.

Artist Name:  BOYTOY

Album Name:  Night Leaf

Label:  PaperCup Music

Genre:  Pop

Track Listing:  1.  It’s Alright; 2.  Mary Anne; 3.  I get Distant; 4.  Stare into Space; 5.  NY Rip Off; 6.  Pretty One; 7.  Get off your Leash; 8.  Juarez; 9.  Want; 10.  Cold Love

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  This band has a retro sound similar to The Bangles, with three-part harmonies over a 90’s pop soundtrack.  They are set to launch their latest release with a European tour, and we think that the Continent will simply adore them.  The songs are fun, upbeat and worthy of industry attention.  They could form the perfect soundtrack for television and film.  The songs are short and sweet and radio ready.  We love the album, but really dig the sound of “It’s Alright, “Stare Into Space,” “NY Rip Off,” “Get off your Leash,” “Want,” and “Cold Love.”

Recommendation:  If you like the fun pop music of the 90’s, then this is the band for you.  We recommend you get their latest and have some fun.

Artist Name:  Bossie

Album Name:  Not Pictured

Label:  Culvert Music

Genre:  Pop/Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Mild at Heart; 2.  Meteor; 3.  Strawberry Moon; 4.  There will be Time; 5.  A lot like Love; 6.  The Outsider; 7.  As Good as it Gets; 8.  Tell it All; 9.  Post Teen

Publicist:  The Syndicate

Review:  Combining elements of new wave, glam rock and synth-pop into her own upbeat style, Toronto-based Bossie brings us high energy, fun pop/rock music that has a very retro feel.  Like BOYTOY, Bossie’s music is radio ready and suitable for placement in television and film, and is just plain fun, starting with “Mild at Heart” and continuing on with “Meteor,” which has a Katy Perry meets Madonna feel, and “Strawberry Moon,” which is pure 80’s new wave.  We featured her video for that song in our first Monday Mashup to kick off April, which coincidentally also featured BOYTOY,  There isn’t a weak song on the album, which we think you will want to listen to over and over again.

Recommendation:  Do yourself a favor – Get this one and put it on repeat.

Artist Name:  Olan Monk

Album Name:  INIS

Label:  C.A.N.V.A.S.

Genre:  Electronica instrumentals

Track Listing:  1.  Drum 2; 2.  Love World (ft Elvin Brandhi); 3.  Unrequited; 4.  Failure Dance (ft. Maria Sommerville); 5.  Sisyphus; 6.  Paradise; 7.  Zones; 8.  Drone Island; 9.  Yin Yang (ft. Maria Sommerville)

Publicist:  Worldwide Friendly Society

Review:  Irish artist Olan Monk returns with his sophomore album INIS (Irish for island), an set of electronica-laden meditative instrumentals which provides the follow-up material to his debut album ANAM (Irish for soul).  These tunes are more meditative than entertainment, providing a relaxing soundtrack for those times.

Recommendation:  Although not our cup of tea, we’re sure there are people that would use this music for meditation.  Unless you’re one of those individuals, we recommend you just Forget this one.

Artist Name:  Dearist

Album Name:  Sonder

Label:  Spartan Records

Genre:  Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Front Matter; 2.  Beaches; 3.  Fool’s Heart; 4.  Drowning; 5.  Demuto; 6.  Essex 1820; 7. Part of You; 8. Half Light; 9.  Shame; 10.  Pentonville; 11.  Colours

Publicist:  Spartan Records

Review:  This UK rock band brings us the latest in hard-hitting rock and roll, the British way.  The album opens with the instrumental “Front Matter” before exploding with the amazing sound of “Beaches.”  The rest of the record only gets better from there, with music that screams for placement in television and film, as well as inclusion on harder rock radio stations, especially college radio.    Other songs that we like include “Drowning,” “Demuto,” “Part of You,” “Shame,” and “Colours.”

Recommendation:  If you are a die-hard rock fan, then you need this one.  We recommend  you Get it today.

Artist Name:  Lauren Anderson

Album Name:  The Game

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Make a Mistake; 2.  The Game; 3.  Scream; 4.  On her Own; 5.  Sing; 6.  What If

Publicist:  ABIK Radio Promotions

Review:  Wow.  We’re blown away by the sheer power of Lauren Anderson’s voice, as well as the amazing musicianship of her band.  From the first notes of “Make a Mistake,” Anderson takes us on an emotional journey, fueled by the raw incredibleness of her voice and the amazingly well-crafted songs she has created.  These songs are so radio ready  that they deserve immediate industry attention.  They would surely make the day for the smart music supervisor who secures them for television, film and commercial application.  Her voice is like a combination of Janis Joplin and Bonnie Raitt, and her music is similar to that of Melissa Etheridge.  The title cut is one of our favorite songs, but all six of them are worthy of your attention, especially the bluesy “Scream” and the guitar riffs on “Sing.”

Recommendation:  Get this one ASAP and put it on repeat – we don’t believe you will ever tire of these songs.

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 17

We made it to the final Monday in April.  That means May 1 is coming up, when tickets for both the 2018 Hollywood Fringe Festival and the 2018 LA Music Critic Award Winners Showcase go on sale.  June is gonna be awesome, and we can’t wait to see LA again.  We’ll be in town from June 11-25, so let us know what Fringe shows and concerts we should check out while we’re there.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL

This year marks the 9th annual Festival, and other than 2015, we have attended every year.  We can hardly wait for the tickets to go on sale so we can start planning our trip.  We will again be sponsoring the Larry Cornwall Award for Musical Excellence, which goes to a play which best incorporates music into its story.  The award will be presented on June 24 at the Awards show.  We look forward to checking out your show for this award.  As always, we will be publishing reviews every day, so make sure you invite us to your Fringe show.

JOE PURDY HEADS OUT ON TOUR

Amazing indie artist Joe Purdy heads out on the road as the opening act for Judy Collins and Stephen Stills.  Purdy and Amber Rubarth recently gained attention for their movie American Folk.  You can see them both if you catch the Nashville show.  You can buy your tickets here.

May 03 – Hult Center for the Performing Arts – Eugene, OR
May 04 – Snoqualmie Casino Showroom – Snoqualmie, WA
May 11 – *Nashville Musicians Corner – Nashville, TN (American Folk w/ Amber Rubarth)
May 16 – The Rose – Pasadena, CA
May 17 – The Canyon –  Santa Clarita, CA 
June 01 – Luther Burbank Center – Santa Rosa, CA
June 02 – Mountain Winery – Saratoga, CA 
June 04 – Humphries By The Bay – San Diego, CA 
June 08 – *City Winery – Chicago, IL (Solo Show)
June 09 – Meadow Brook Amphitheatre – Rochester Hills, MI

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE

Tickets go on sale tomorrow for the 2nd annual showcase, which will be held at The Mint in Los Angeles on June 19.  Artists scheduled to appear this year include Lexie Rose, Alexis Keagan, Pi Jacobs, Great Willow, The Khourys, Poco’s Rusty Young, Cindy Alexander, Calico the Band’s Ted Russell Kamp, and Shiragirl from the Vans Warped Tour.  Local rockers ROCKET will headline the event.  Tickets are just $10 in advance (with a 60 cent surcharge).  A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Come support indie music.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Blue Élan Records artist Jesse Dayton, whose album will be coming out in June.  Here’s his latest single, “May Have to Do It (Don’t Have to Like It).”  Let us know what you think.

Our second single comes from Strange Boy, a London-based duo with sweeping harmonies and lush techno accompaniment.  Check out their latest offering, “Love Remains.”

Next up is Polychrome, who channel the vibe of The Cocteau Twins to bring us “Dreaming About You.”  If you like electronic, pop and/or dance music, you will love this one.

Our next single, “Thrift Shop,” comes from Johnny and the Bootlegs, who combine blues, punk and rock n’ roll to create a high energy sound.  Please let us know what you think.

Our final single today comes from Summer Heart, and should get  you ready for summer with the amazing “I Got This Thing for You.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today comes from Secret Colours for their single “Dream Dream.”  We find it interesting that the album was dropped almost a year ago, and we are just now finding out about them.  We can’t wait for more!

Next up is the latest from LA indie icon Kari Kimmel, with another smash hit video.  This one is for her single “High,” and we can’t wait to find out what music supervisor was smart enough to choose this one.  Her new album drops May 25.

Our third video today is from one of our indie bands, FlecHaus.  Here is the lyric video for “Finding,” which was just released TODAY!

We really love this next video from Lora Kelley for her single, “Both Hands.”  We would love to hear what you think.

Last but not least this week is the latest from amazing duo This Way North.  It is a live performance of their single, “Nothing to Say,” and we truly dig their vibe.  Have a great week and we’ll be back soon with more Get it or Forget it.

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Reviews Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 16

April is winding down and summer will be here soon (we hope!).   Here is the latest indie news, as well as some new singles and music videos which have been recently released. Have a great week and come back tomorrow for our interview with acclaimed country artist Michael Peterson.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL

The 9th annual Hollywood Fringe Festival runs June 7-24, with previews running the week before.  Check their Facebook page for pre-festival events, and mark you calendar for May 1, when tickets go on sale for this year’s event.  We will be there from June 12 to the 25, and can hardly wait.  Hope to see you all around LA.

LA MUSIC CRITIC AWARD WINNERS SHOWCASE

Plans are complete for this year’s showcase, which will be held on June 19 at the Mint on Pico Boulevard.  Tickets go on sale on May 1, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Sweet Relief Musicians Fund.  Come out and support indie music and support our most worthy charity.  We have some great plans for the evening, including the bestowing of the 2018 Icon Award, so don’t miss out.

NEW SINGLES

Up first this week is the latest from the soulful Sam Hammerman, with this masterful song “Miss the Days.”  It is a sweet and smooth way to start your week, so check him out.

Next up is an indie rock tune from South Village, an Australian band from Melbourne.   We think you will like these guys, who are reminiscent of the Gin Blossoms.  Here’s “Say it Now.”

Originally signed to Elton John’s Rocket Records, UK standout Johnny Stimson reveals his first single with “End of Time.”  It is a dreamy pop song that will give you chills.  Please let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/antifragile_music/end-of-time-johnny-stimson/s-wLpLJ

Our fourth single today is a special preview and comes from Canadian troubadour Craig Cardiff, who brings us a double dose of his song “Okay Cupid.”    We love the instrumentation, and the smooth voice, which reminds us of Cat Stevens.  Watch for its release next Friday, April 27.

Our final single today comes from Lachlan Vines, an artist we featured last year.  Here is his current single, “Take it Back.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first one today comes from Grammy-nominated blues artist Janiva Magness, and is a lyric video for her protest song, “Home.”  We think this one will give you the strength and resolve to stand up for your beliefs.

Next we travel to Amsterdam for Not.Your.Regular.Boy‘s latest video for “Crazyland.”  This one has enough energy to get your going strong this week.

Our third video today is one of the most creative we have viewed since Bruno Mars’ “Just the Way you Are.”  Check out the amazing artist Andy Sydow and his hand-drawn animation for “Reasons for Departure.”

Fourth on our list today is from the groovalicous sounds of ellee ven.  The cinematography on this one is delicious, and the story is well told.  Check out “For Your Love.”

Last but not least this week is the latest powerful video from multi-award winning Americana artist Alice Wallace.  Check out her moving female empowerment video for “Elephants.”

 

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

Get it or forget it – Halo Circus, Champyons, Curvs, The County Well, Clare Hennessy

We’re halfway through March, and tomorrow is St. Patrick’s Day.  We are so happy this day has arrived because we get to share some amazing music with you today, including the long awaited new release from Halo Circus.  Grab your coffee and let’s get started!

Artist Name:  Halo Circus

Album Name:  Robots and Wranglers

Label:  Halo Circus Propaganda

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Oh Money; 2.  Contact; 3.  Narcissist; 4.  Got it Made; 5.  Commander; 6.  Y Para Que; 7.  Pledge of Allegiance; 8.  Off the World

Publicist:  Far Digital PR

Review:  We have loved Allison Iraheta ever since her appearance on American Idol, and the emergence of Halo Circus.  Their debut album Bunny was a huge success, and they subsequently became the first major indie to allow their fans to determine their tour through a crowdfunding platform.  Their sophomore release, East Lansing Sessions EP, was also a critical success.  Now, with the release of Robots and Wranglers today, they have scaled back their band to a duo featuring Iraheta and her husband, Matthew Hager, all without missing a beat.   Their first single, “Narcissist,” has become a smash hit, and their video for it has been blowing up YouTube since its release three weeks ago,  accumulating more than 43,000 views.   Words cannot adequately express the greatness of this album.  It hits the ground running with the rocking, radio-friendly hit song “Oh Money,” and takes off from there, gaining altitude with every song.  It is no hype that the future of the industry begins with Halo Circus.  Robots and Wranglers is the perfect blueprint for commercial success for any indie artist wanting to be the best.  Besides “Narcissist” and “Oh Money,” other potential hit songs include “Got it Made” and “Commander.”

Recommendation:  Don’t even think about it, just Get it.  You owe it to yourself!

Artist Name:  Champyons

Album Name:  Cha Cha Cha

Label:  Embassy of Music

Genre:  Synth Pop/Dance

Track Listing:  1.  Dusty; 2.  No Applause; 3.  Geld; 4.  Cold Wars; 5.  Interlude; 6.  Maria Luiza; 7.  Living in the Movies; 8.  I’m Organic; 9.  Interlude II; 10.  Oceans; 11.  R.F.G.; 12.  Roaming in Paris; 13.  To the Bottom

Publicist:  Guerilla Music Promotion

Review:  You have probably never come across a band like Champyons.  Already a large part of the pulsating music scene in Berlin, they are poised to take on the world with their own brand of synthesized music, perfect for listening and dancing.  This album has one potential hit after another, and is so much fun to listen to.  Our favorites include “Dusty,” “Cold Wars,” “Living in the Movies,” “Oceans,” and “Roaming in Paris.”

Recommendation:  This one is worth a try.  Check it out and you’ll see why.

Artist Name:  Curvs

Album Name:  Hauntropics

Label:  Fysisk Format

Genre:  Synth Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Airwolf Ghandi; 2.  Atlantic Cologne; 3.  Avian; 4.  Bamboo Town; 5.  Blowpipe; 6.  Boeing 909; 7.  Delusive; 8.  Don Johnson; 9.  Khyber Pass Pt. 1; 10.  Khyber Pass Pt. 2

Publicist:  Viral Propaganda PR

Review:  Norwegian synth rockers Curvs have arrived on the scene with an intriguing form of music that is high energy, upbeat and danceable.  Their music can best be described as drug-induced fantasies with a driving dance beat.  The album would make a great soundtrack for your next costume party, and is guaranteed to keep the interest of your attendees.  DJ’s far and wide need to look to this band for material for their next mix-tape.

Recommendation:  Give them a chance, especially if you like cutting edge dance and house music.

Artist Name:  The County Well

Album Name:  Future Country

Label:  Floating Records

Genre:  Roots/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Alabama; 2.  Baby; 3.  Empty Hall; 4.  Extra Heavy; 5.  Hollywood; 6.  Light; 7.  Mezzanine; 8.  Mrs. Soul; 9.  Ship you Can’t Steer; 10.  Subtle and Serene; 11.  Whiskey Before Noon

Publicist:  Doug Deutsch Publicity Services

Review:  The County Well is an artist collective based in Marin County, California.  Future Country is a collaborative effort between those local artists and touring musicians, overseen by Floating Records.    Graham Guest gets the party going with “Alabama,” complete with pedal steel, harmonica, drums and bass in a Paul Simon-like country island jam that features the amazing backing vocals of Sophie Meier.  Guest returns on “Baby,” with amazing harmonies from Amy Nordstrom and some intriguing slide guitar and dobro as well.  On “Empty Hall,” Guest switches gears to a more blues sound, with an intricate layer of harmonica and those amazing vocal harmonies.  Don Zimmer comes along on “Extra Heavy,” with his Grateful Dead influence as well as lap steel and piano, before becoming more of a troubadour with his tribute-filled “Hollywood.”  “Light” is a beautiful acoustic track that clears your palate before Guest and Zimmer combine on the roots-heavy tune “Mezzanine,” complete with out of this world trombone.  Zimmer adds in some flute to his guitar to “Mrs. Soul” before doing it Jethro-Tull style on “Ship you Can’t Steer.”  The album closes with the instrumental tune “Subtle and Serene” before delivering what is sure to become a St. Patrick’s Day standard, “Whiskey Before Noon.”

Recommendation:  This one puts an American roots spin on the traditional celtic traditions of St. Patrick’s Day.  Enjoy it with your green beer and Jamison’s.

Artist Name:  Clare Hennessy

Album Name:  April

Label:  A&R Records

Genre:  Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Cherry Red; 2.  Bittersweetest; 3.  Famine or Feast; 4.  April

Publicist:  The A&R Department

Review:  Clare Hennessy has to have one of the sweetest, airiest voices we have heard in recent memory, and her rich folky tunes are perfectly set to her voice and her choice of instrumental backing.  Its sound is perfectly relaxing and soothing, taking away all of the listener’s cares with each note.  The only thing wrong with this EP is that is just too short at only four songs, and definitely leaves us wanting another dose soon.  We can hardly wait to hear what’s next from Hennessy.  She is a true treasure.

Recommendation:  Don’t waste any time.  Get this one soon.

 

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

Get it or forget it – The Skullers, ROCKET, An American Forrest, LadyChild, Super Hi-Fi

Happy Friday!  We’ve been working hard reviewing this year’s releases, and will be caught up as of this edition of Get it or Forget It.  That’s 140 albums/EPs we have reviewed so far this year, including this edition.  Next week we will bring you our Monday Mashup, a deluxe set of new singles and music videos and hopefully a live performance review, in addition to next Friday’s Get it or Forget it reviews.  With that in mind, here are another five artists to check out.

Artist Name:  The Skullers

Album Name:  Meet the Skullers

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Blues Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Meet me in Memphis; 2.  Pressure Face; 3.  Eyes Open; 4.  Peace With You; 5.  One Foot in the Grave

Publicist:  Moot Management

Review:  A few years back, we reviewed Jack Skuller, the frontman and guitarist for The Skullers.  At the time Skuller was only 18.  Now, four years later, he has created a band that is taking New Jersey and the east coast by storm.  This debut five-song EP is a treasure, and exhibits so much potential for this band.  All five of these songs are great, with just the right amount of attitude, guitar, drums, and the amazing rock and roll voice of Skuller.  We wonder what the next four years will bring.  We can’t wait to see what’s next for the Skullers.  It is an honor to meet them.

Recommendation:  Don’t waste time – Get this one today.

Artist Name:  ROCKET

Album Name:  Get Huge

Label:  Exploited Music

Genre:  Alt Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Giants; 2.  Hey Baby; 3.  Fading Out; 4.  Remain; 5.  Fever

Publicist:  Powder Finger Promotions

Review:  Lead singer Janelle Barreto has been a staple of the LA rock scene for many years, fronting such bands as Exploiting Eve and serving on the other side of the industry with Warner Music Group and Universal Music Group before joining ROCKET.  The band has received much critical acclaim, including multiple LA Music Critic Awards and made the semi-final round for the WARPED Tour Battle of the Bands.  This EP is just the first fruits of the simply amazing music that pours from the stage whenever they perform.  The band is planning a huge EP release party at the world-famous Viper Room on the Sunset Strip on April 21.  If you live in Los Angeles, we highly recommend that you make it to the show.

Recommendation:  Do we really need to  tell you to Get this one?  It’s just so painfully obvious that you need it in your musical library?

Artist Name:  An American Forrest

Album Name:  Ol’ Yonder

Label:  Eat Local Records

Genre:  Folk/Cowboy Blues

Track Listing:    1.  Alberta IV; 2.  More Than Enough; 3.  Bed & Board; 4.  Pastures of Plenty; 5.  Darlin’ you Weren’t One (Rawhide); 6.  Quarter ’til Tomorrow; 7.  Diamond Joe; 8.  Yonder Mountain; 9.  Chehalis River #1; 10.  Hard Times; 11.  Lovesick (Did ya Read the Letter?); 12.  Room to Dream; 13.  Don’t Take Nothing’ (Ma and Pa); 14.  Wedding Song (Sam & Jessica, Lostine, May 20, 2017); 15.  Yonder Lies Heaven; 16.  Alberta Oregon

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  With a voice similar to Tom Waits, An American Forrest brings us the “cowboy blues.”  This collection, recorded on an old cassette recorder, includes first drafts, covers of such artists as Woody Guthrie and Gillian Welch, traditionals and instrumentals he has written between jobs while out in the great outdoors.  It is a very eclectic collection with something that should appeal to just about everyone.  This one would make a good soundtrack for a documentary, so music supervisors, check it out.  For the rest of us, just put it on and let it fill the quiet with interesting stories and music.

Recommendation:  Definitely worth checking out.

Artist Name:  LadyChild

Album Name:  LadyChild

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Indie Rock

Track Listing:  1.  Out of Breath; 2.  Man Overboard; 3.  Lazy Girl; 4.  Fooled Again; 5.  Just Fine

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:  LadyChild is like a cross between Janis Joplin, Grace Potter and Led Zeppelin, a fireball of a performer that is comfortable mixing genres to create her own very unique style.  Her vocals soar to the stratosphere while a perfect guitar and drum musical base provides the perfect landing zone.  “Out of Breath” is pure rock before she shifts gears to a more electric and soulful jazz sound on “Man Overboard.”  “Lazy Girl” is straight ahead progressive jazz that morphs into rock before returning to jazz and would be perfect for airplay on numerous smooth jazz radio stations, as well as be perfect for the next James Bond movie.  Likewise, “Fooled Again” is a lively jazz tune that would likewise appeal to the smooth jazz crowd.  She closes out the EP with “Just Fine,” a more traditional jazz song that soars and soothes, and is the perfect ending to this dynamic collection.

Recommendation:  If you are a serious progressive jazz lover, then you owe it to yourself to Get this one to complete your collection.

Artist Name:   Super Hi-Fi

Album Name:   Blue and White

Label: Self-released

Genre:   Reggae/Rock/Dub

Track Listing:   1,  Gone; 2.  Keep it Dirty; 3.  Dub to the Bone; 4.  Fergie; 5.  Revenge of the Whales; 6.  Blue and White; 7.  Little Black Book; 8.  Space Needle; 9.  Gale Caution; 10.  Hole in my Life; 11.  Biking to Bushwick; 12.  Son of Revenge of the Whales

Publicist:  Behind the Curtains Media

Review:   The horns and discordant chords that are heard on the first track, “Gone,” are very reminiscent of 80’s ska bands like No Doubt and Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, while the reggae beat that permeates the songs give it that true island feel.  Throw in some rock guitar and a driving beat and you have the makings of their second track, “Keep it Dirty.”  Super Hi-Fi continues like this throughout the album, mixing genres in the process of establishing themselves as experts at a myriad of musical tastes and styles.  It is impossible to be bored with this release, as your ears are constantly adjusting to the creative waves of sound from reggae, rock, world music and jazz influences.  We can only imagine how much fun they would be to see perform live.  “Fergie” almost sounds like something Jimmy Buffet might do, while “Revenge of the Whales” has that ELO/prog rock feel.  We really love the title track, as well as “Little Black Book” and “Gale Caution.”

Recommendation:   You simply must have this eclectic album in your collection, for those times when you can’t decide exactly what you want to hear.  Definitely Get it.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Big Sky Documentary Film Festival Hollywood Fringe Festival LA Music Critic Awards Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 7

Mother Nature has made it clear these past few days that she’s not ready for spring yet here in Montana, as we have been bombarded with snow, high winds and sub-zero temperatures.  Regardless of the weather, the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival kicked off last Friday night with a sold-out screening of the film Dark Money, attended by our very own Governor.  Attendance at other screenings on Saturday, Sunday and today have been high, including quite a few sell-outs, including Forever B, the one I attended tonight about kidnap victim Jan Broberg, a child kidnap victim and author of Loss of Innocence.

We have a bit of news for you today, as well as four new singles and three new music videos, so let’s get to it.

DIANA REIN LAUNCHES CROWD-FUNDING CAMPAIGN

Referred to as the “The Six-String Siren,” LA Music Critic Award winner Diana Rein has announced the launch of a crowd-funding campaign for her upcoming album, Queen Of My Castle. The follow-up to her critically-lauded 2016 release Long Road, Queen Of My Castle is being co-produced by Michael Leasure (drummer extraordinaire with the Walter Trout Band).

“The new album is a collection of 15 songs, with one of those songs being a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan,” says Rein, just back from representing Guitar Girl Magazine at the 2018 NAMM Conference.  Rein is the featured artist for the month of April in their 2018 Calendar.  “There’s a lot of traditional blues, as well as high energy, upbeat, and blues-rock songs that I know you guys will love. This album will be lucky #3 for me and my first full-band album.  I loved making my last record on my own, but I am really looking forward to challenging myself this time around and collaborating with the pros.”

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL NEWS

The Hollywood Fringe Festival is getting ready for their ninth run June 7-24, and is looking for interns and volunteers, specifically in the areas of Fringe Central Set Design, Events, Volunteer Coordinator and Cabaret.  Interning with the Fringe is the best way to get hands on experience behind the scenes of the largest performing arts festival in the west.  Interns work directly with Fringe staff to help run various aspects of the festival.  Click the link for position details.  If you are interested, please submit a cover letter and resume to internships@hollywoodfringe.org.  Please specify which position you are interested in.  The deadline to apply is April 1.

NEW SINGLES

Here’s the first single from the forthcoming album People Person by Everett Bird.  The single is entitled “Bucket of Dark Meat,” and we think you’ll like it.  It is different from many of the songs featured here, so get ready to try something new.

https://soundcloud.com/royalmountain/03-bucket-of-dark-meat/s-5vsqk?in=royalmountain/sets/everett-bird-people-person/s-TOwD8

Next up is “The Monster” from LA based garage rock band Bird Concerns.  This one truly rocks.

Our third single today is from folk singer songwriter Brown Kid.  It is definitely a step down energy wise from the previous song, but it is different enough to pass on to you.  The song is entiled “Sunrise” and we want to hear your feedback.

https://soundcloud.com/brown_kid_music/sunrise-single

Our final single today is from another LA Music Critic Award winner, Sleep Machine.  They are releasing their newest album one song at a time.  Here is “Mother.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our favorite Italian rock band is back with another hot video.  Check out “Never Obey” from Black Mamba.  We guarantee this one will rock your sock.

Our next video is the latest from Allison Iraheta and Mathew Hager, aka Halo Circus.  It is a video for their single “Narcissist,” which we debuted two weeks ago.  Please let us know what you think.

Blue Élan Records continues to bring back classic bands, and the latest to return is Fanny Walked the Earth.  Here is the video for “Lured Away,” their first single in 34 years.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Get it or Forget it Reviews

Get it or forget it – Bonsai Universe, New Row, Adrian Underhill, Steven Casper and Cowboy Angst, Fernando Perdomo

Happy Valentine’s Day!  We are proud to share the love of great indie music, and have five more reviews for you today.  We have previously reviewed releases by Adrian Underhill, Steven Casper and Cowboy Angst and Fernando Perdomo, but the other two are new to us.  We hope you enjoy checking them out as much as we have.

Artist Name:  Bonsai Universe

Album Name:  Moonstream

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Electric Folk

Track Listing:  1.  Moonstream; 2.  Am I Good Enough; 3.  Walking with my Eyes Closed; 4.  Summertime; 5.  Why are my Dreams?; 6.  Sweet Exaggeration; 7.  Should I Believe you; 8.  A lot of Nerve; 9.  Once Upon a Dream; 10.  Too Real; 11.  Everything; 12.  Astrotonic; 13.  Starstream

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Bonsai Universe is the brainchild and creation of multi-talented musician Woody Aplanalp.  Prior to the creation of his new project, Apanalp spent his time as a recording and touring guitarist with such notable acts as Grammy-winning artist Lauryn Hill, Boby Womak, Aloe Blacc, Trilok Gurtu and Thomas Mapfumo, as well as collaborations with Nels Cline, Banyan with Stephen Perkins and Old Californio.  He had help on this new album from Anthony Logerfo (Neil Young), Paul Lacques (I See Hawks in LA, Jason Chesney and Justin Smith from Old Californio and Miguel Atwood-Ferguson, among others.  This is our first time reviewing electric folk, and we are impressed.  This album seems to take the folk music of the 60’s and infuse it with electric instrumentation, such that it becomes folk music for a new and more sophisticated age.  We think Aplanalp has hit upon a novel idea that should help him find a new niche in today’s indie music marketplace,

Recommendation:  We like the unique sound of Bonsai Universe and are proud to highly recommend this one.  We suggest you go out and get it.

Artist Name:  New Row

Album Name:  Waging War

Label:  Self-released

Genre:  Alternative Rock/Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Binary; 2.  Belong; 3.  The Day that Never Ends; 4.  Waging War; 5.  Male Order; 6.  Home; 7.  Sandslide; 8.  Our Song; 9.  Dreamtime; 10.  Falling Forward; 11.  Halflife; 12.  Let Go; 13.  X File 1; 14.  In a Perfect Circle; 15.  The Things you Say; 16.  Stars

Publicist:  Self-promoted

Review:  Toronto, Canada-based alternative rock-pop band New Row have brought us something different.  The message is hook laden with a pop mentality, but with a hard rock edge.  Each song brings a new dynamic to this unique vision, and we can’t stop listening.  These songs are so good, they deserve serious radio airplay.  We think they are heading for the top of the charts, and encourage station managers in the alt rock genre to reach out and add them ASAP.  Sure-fire hits include “The Day that Never Ends,” the title track, “Our Song,” “Dreamtime,” “In a Perfect Circle,” “The Things you Say” and “Stars.”

Recommendation:  Welcome these lads from up north to America.  We believe they are coming to take the country by storm and encourage you to be one of the first to Get their new album and help them in their mission.

Artist Name:  Adrian Underhill

Album Name:  C U Again

Label:  Indica Records

Genre:  Electronic Pop

Track Listing:  1.  Not Good Enough; 2.  C U Again; 3.  Holding Out; 4.  Cruel; 5.  I Want it All; 6.  Weather; 7.  As I Think of Something Different; 8.  How to Make a Life Count; 9.  I Could; 10.  Carry On

Publicist:  Auteur Research

Review:  Canadian native Adrian Underhill is no stranger to readers of this blog, as we shared two of his songs with you last year via our Monday Mashup column.  He has finally completed his debut album, and we are proud for the privilege of reviewing it.  His music is smooth, soulful and laden with pop hooks, just the thing for American radio.  From the first song, “Not Good Enough,” to the last one, “Carry On,” Underhill brings us a fresh new sound that is ripe and ready for American ears.  We also love his songs “C U Again,” “Cruel,” “I Want it All,” “As I Think of Something Different,” and “How to Make a Life Count.”

Recommendation:  This one belongs in your music library.  Get it.

Artist Name:  Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst

Album Name:  Sometimes Jesse James

Label:  Silent City Records

Genre:  Country/Americana

Track Listing:  1.  Down; 2.  The Best Day of Our Lives; 3.  My Wrecking Ball; 4.  They Call it Love; 5.  Born to Lose Blues; 6.  Mi Sueno, Mi Dolor

Publicist:  KG Music Press

Review:  Since the last time we reviewed Steven Casper and his band, they have gotten tighter with their musicianship and vocal harmonies.  On Sometimes Jesse James, they kick off the six-song EP with some rocking country that will get your toes tapping and compel you out to the dance floor.  We really love the Hammond B3 on the first track, especially because it is not your typical country band instrument.  The second track is a lovely and haunting ballad that features the amazing pedal steel of John McDuffie, who also contributes electric and classical guitar and lap steel.  The band shows their creative prowess on their cover of Ryan Adams’ “My Wrecking Ball,” which also features a couple of other instruments not normally associated with a country band – dulcimer and cittern.   On “They Call it Love” and “Born to Lose Blues,” the band tries their hand at the blues, with amazing results.  They close the EP with an instrumental number, a Casper tradition.  This one has a Spanish flair and feature McDuffie on a nylon string Spanish guitar.

Recommendation:  You simply must add this EP to  your collection.

Artist Name:  Fernando Perdomo

Album Name:  Out to Sea

Label:  Forward Motion Records

Genre:  Instrumental Prog Rock

Track Listing:  1.  The Architect (tribute to Peter Banks; 2.  Out to Sea; 3.  De Boerderij (tribute to Focus); 4.  Roses Spread all Over the World; 5.  The Future According to Royce (tribute to Roye Albrighton); 6.  The Dream; 7.  Sonja (tribute to Sonja Kristina and Curved Air); 8.  Dreaming in Stereo Suite

Publicist:  ACR Management

Review:  We were so impressed with Perdomo’s last album, The Golden Hour, that we couldn’t wait for his next project.  His excellent work earned him a nomination for an LA Music Critic Award, as well as our respect.  On Out to Sea, he takes an entirely different musical approach, turning in an impeccable instrumental album in the Prog Rock style.  Perdomo played all the instruments on the album, with the exception of the drum track on “The Dream.”  That alone merits Perdomo respect, as well as the fact that this album simply rocks from start to finish.  It is perfect for a musical background for your end of day chill or your Friday night party.  If you enjoy the beauty and simplicity of great music, then this album is definitely for you.

Recommendation:  Don’t wait or hesitate – Get this album while you can.  It is a must for every serious audiophile.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Monday Mashup Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 6

Greeting from the frigid cold of Montana.  Our wonderful spring-like weather evaporated and a cold front set in, with some severe wind chill.  Good thing the music scene is hot.  Here’s the latest.

HEATHER JACKS TO RELEASE NEW BOOK

Author Heather Jacks, one of our panel members on the LA Music Critic Awards committee, is about to release her new memoir, My Headdress is on Fire.  She has previously released a couple of tabletop books, The Noise Beneath the Apple, and The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.  This one is about her time growing up on Indian land, and is a series of essays.  If you would like to be part of her Indiegogo pre-release campaign, just click here.

TRACY BONHAM SIGNS WITH ECR MUSIC GROUP

We had the privilege of reviewing the latest from Tracy Bonham, and were impressed.  She has recently signed with the ECR Music Group and they’re throwing a party in New York City on February 23.  We highly recommend you attend if you’re in the area.

INDIE PERFORMANCES

We love to promote shows for indie artists, so make sure you send the press releases to us for inclusion in this weekly column.  Here’s what we have for this week.

San Diego native Sarah Rogo, who we reviewed back in November, is coming to Los Angeles tomorrow night and playing at Bar Lubitsch at 9 p.m.  If you’re in LA, you should definitely check her out.  She’s been nominated for the latest round of the San Diego Music Awards.

Frank Solivan and Dirty Kitchen from Alexandria, Virginia are heading west for a gig at Boulevard Music in Culver City, California on February 24 at 8 p.m.  Tickets are $20 and available online at the venue.

NEW SINGLES

First up is the latest from LA Music Critic Award winner Kris Angelis, just in time for Valentine’s Day.  We simply love her new single, “A Billion Hearts,” and think you will too.  Let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/krisangelis/a-billion-hearts

Next up is a remake of the old Poco song, “Rose of Cimarron.”  This time is features former lead singer Rusty Young along with LA Music Critic Award winner Chelsea Williams, both artists on Blue Élan Records.  We love it – how about you?

https://open.spotify.com/album/2NRlFktIabT0RDLeuXCGbA?si=OfB54I9nQI6J6MrrPQFnFw

Our final new single today is from Canyon City,  a LA Music Critic Awards nominee.  Check out “Shadows.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up today is the latest from rockers Harker for their single, “Plague Your Heart.”  This one should get your heart pumping.

Next up is the debut music video from Susie Q for her single, “Home.”  This one has a powerful message of peace.  Please check it out and share it with your friends.

Our final video today is a lyric video by Michele Vreeland for her single, “Wild Horse.”  We love this song and its message.  Please let us know what you think.

See you tomorrow with a new set of Get it or Forget it reviews.

 

 

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

Monday mashup 2018: vol. 5

Well, the winners have now been announced for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2017, and the process starts all over for the first half of 2018.  Any indie artist is eligible to participate as long as they have a single, music video, CD or EP released between December 1, 2017 and May 31, 2018.  We’ll continue our reviews tomorrow with five more artists, but today, we share news from the indie music world, as well as debut new singles and music videos.  Here we go.

EXIT {LIVE} LAUNCHES NEW GLOBAL MUSIC PLATFORM

A few years back we experienced this company when we attended a Peter Frampton concert at the Greek in Los Angeles.  It allows fans to buy a copy of the concert they have just experienced so they can relive that experience.

Exit [Live] has now announced they are making the technology available to all artists, major and indie, to sell their concerts and vintage recordings directly to their fans.  This is a major win for indie artists everywhere who are trying to gain a more global following.  For artists, it is also profitable, with 80% of sales going back to the artist.

The platform will launch in early 2018, but you can check out their Facebook page now.

HOLLYWOOD FRINGE FESTIVAL PREPARES FOR NINTH YEAR

Founded in 2010, the Hollywood Fringe Festival is preparing for their ninth annual festivities.  Registration for participants opened on February 1 and runs through April 1.  Tickets will go on sale on May 1.

In order to foster artist and audience diversity, the Fringe initiated a scholarship program in 2016 to allow more participation by artists facing challenges that might prevent them from being a part of the Festival.  Each scholarship takes care of the registration costs, provides a $550 stipend towards their production and venue costs, and gives them a Fringe mentor, as well as marketing and networking opportunities as a member of the Fringe community.  The winners of the 2018 Fringe Scholarships are: 

  • Baba, Jee (Father, Yes): Maria, the daughter of a Pakistani father and an American mother, lives in New York City with her boyfriend Dave. On the eve of Hurricane Sandy, her father (Baba) comes to visit from Pakistan for the first time in years. Trapped inside while the storm rages on, Maria, Dave, and Baba must all confront their differing views on culture, love, and expectations.
  • Unapologetically Black: Unapologetically Black is a true story about Misty Monroe trying to fit in as a black woman (with a white name) who grew up in both South Central Los Angeles (predominately black) and the naval bases of Northern California (predominately “other”). The desire to “fit in” is universal and Unapologetically Black takes you on the journey of a black woman who gains the courage to stand out, unapologetically.
  • Trafficked 2.0: Trafficked 2.0 tells a story that occurs much too often and told not nearly enough. On her 13th birthday, a young girl is kidnapped and sold into the horrors of sex trafficking. The show uses the expressive movements of the body to represent a story that forces audiences to acknowledge the awful operations that are going on right under their noses, in their countries, in their neighborhoods, by people that they know.
  • Paisajes Marinos Con Tiburones y bailarines: “Seascape with Sharks and Dancer” is a 1974 play by Don Nigro. The story focuses on a young man, Ben, who saves a young woman named Tracy from the ocean outside his beach house. The production will be in Spanish, focused on attracting the latin community to the theater.
  • Love, Locs & Liberation: Blending poetry, song and humor, Ella unlocks the history of locs experienced by Black women, revealing many mishaps and triumphs. Through the eyes of 21 different characters, a 5th grade bully to Madam CJ Walker, she exposes the hair connection – to politics, identity and culture, illustrating why hair is an intimate and essential part of Black life.
  • I Came To Make Noise: I Came To Make Noise breaks the stereotype that women are expected to be quiet and agreeable. This groundbreaking work of theatre engages audiences with its use of dance, spoken word, and beatbox. This piece explores the inner most thoughts of a woman. The issues of race, politics, and sexual assault are presented through the lens of self-awareness.
  • Liao Zhai: Tale of Extraordinary: China is a two-syllable word with extreme complexity. History, philosophy, ideology, politics — we would be stuck having these intense and serious conversation for years. Even though we are Chinese, believe me, we don’t like that either. As an young ensemble theater company mostly consists of Native Chinese, we would like to share with you some mythical and fantastical stories that have been with us for centuries.
  • A Mile in My Shoes: “A Mile in My Shoes” is a solo show written and performed by veteran actor Kathryn Taylor Smith. In this 90 minute Poetic Dramedy (clever mix of poetry, drama & comedy) Kathryn depicts 12 characters based on research and personal interviews with past and present members of the homeless community (real & created) as well as those who advocate for them.
  • Gay Men Like Young Boys: Part adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s “The Importance of Being Earnest” part social satire. The dark side of desire, gender roles, and the youth obsessed image-based gay community clash in this dark tale of love and revenge.
  • The Goddesses Guide: Adura for the Women of African Diaspora: Follow the revealing journey of three Yoruba goddesses as they grapple with the responsibility of creating a guide for black women trying to survive in a world that doesn’t always allow them to thrive.
  • Land of No Shadows: Combining the Japanese dance art of Butoh with experimental animation and puppetry, “Land of No Shadows” uses stark, striking visuals to portray a fluid relationship between puppet and puppeteer, reflecting our unstable, fluctuating social and emotional status as humans.

NEW SINGLES

Our first new single this week comes from a band we have loved from the beginning.  Founded by former American Idol contestant Allison Iraheta and her husband, Matthew Hager, Halo Circus has reinvented itself as an electronic duo and has released “Narcissist,” the first single from their upcoming project.  Check out the new sound of the band, and let us know what you think.

Next up is Aja Warren, a new artist from the same management company that gave us Wendy Sweetlove.  Here’s her new single, “Show me the Magic.”  We think you’ll love it as much as we do.

Kim DiVine is a past LA Music Critic Award winner who has consistently delivered outstanding music.  Klvr Grl has done a remix of one of her songs, and we wanted to share it with you.  Please check out “Broken Bird (Klvr Grl remix).”

Our final single today comes from Gundelach for their breakout single, “Duck Hunting.”  Please let us know what you think.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video today comes from Kris Angelis, another past LA Music Critic Award winner.  Here’s her video for “Please Come Back Home,” filmed on a family trip to Carmel, California.

Next up is a video from one of the most recent LA Music Critic Award winners, Jason Hawk Harris, formerly of The Stone Ponies.  This is an acoustic video for his single, “Phantom Limb.”

For all you Tesla fans out there, here is the latest video from guitarist Frank Hannon from his solo acoustic project.  This is a cover of the Allman Brothers Band classic song, “Blue Sky.”  We dig it.

Last but not least, here’s the latest provacotive video from The Scared Crows about the Harvey Weinstein controversy.  Check out “Harvey Talk.”

We’ll be back tomorrow with our next round of reviews in Get it or Forget it.  See you then.

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

Winners of LA Music Critic Awards for second half of 2017

Thank you for your enthusiastic response to this round of nominations for the LA Music Critic Awards.  Last July, when we announced the winners for the first half of 2017, we thought we had reached a pinnacle in fan support, but you blew that away this time around.  In a two week period, there were 5,725 views of the nominations article on our blog and 7,996 total views from 59 countries.  You left a mindboggling 864 comments that included the nomination of 30 artists for the Fan Favorite Award.  Thank you for your support of indie music.

The second annual Winners Showcase will take place in June in Los Angeles.  Watch for more details.

Before we get started with the announcement of the winners, we wanted to add in a couple of special awards.  It has become more and more obvious of the value of promotion for an indie artist.  They can either do it all themselves or hire a professional publicist.  We wanted to give some credit and recognition to those who promote.

LA MUSIC CRITIC PUBLICISTS “SEAL OF APPROVAL”  – We have worked with a lot of publicists this year, and are happy to give our “Seal of Approval” to two of them who have truly stepped up for their clients – ABIK Promotions and Frank Roszak Promotions.  They now join the previous recipients of this award, including Doug Deutsch Publicity Services, Red Boot PR, Noisy Ghost PR, MAD Ink PR and KG Music Press.

BEST SELF-PROMOTION – We received a lot of submissions from artists doing their own promotion, and we were impressed by the quality of their work.  Among those we noticed were Ben Anderson, Andrea Harsell & Luna Roja, and Kate Steinway, but the award this year goes to The Khourys.

Without further ado, here are the results for the second half of 2017.  Winners are indicated with BOLD type.

BEST EP (Male) – Ryan Sims, My Side of the Story; Sam Marine, Big Dark City; Ben Anderson, YouTopia; Matt Westerman, Life Out Loud; Vinnie Paolizzi, Kids

BEST EP (Female) – Jacquie, The Only One; Katie Costello, New World; Cara Frew, Dance; Helen Culver, Seven Year Glitch; Libbie Schrader, Red Thread

BEST EP (Group) – Mare Island, Eponymous; TYA, No Money, More Love; RVBY My Dear, Cycles; Social Repose, Empress; Surf Rock is Dead, We Have No Friends?

BEST EP (International) – House Hounds, Saturate; Wolf & Moon, Frames; HUNDREDS, Wilderness; The Raft; Orion; The Raft, A Lullaby

BEST CD (Male) – Canyon City, Constellation; Chuck McDermott, Gin & Rosewater; Case Garrett, Aurora; Rusty Young, Waitin’ for the Sun; Bryan Stephens, Village of Dreams

BEST CD (Female) – Monica Chapman, Small World; Chelsea Williams, Boomerang; Cindy Alexander, Deep Waters; Marina V, Born to the Stars; Katie Costello, Twice the Love; Amilia K. Spicer, Wow and Flutter

BEST CD (Group) – The Commotions, Vol 2; Great Willow, Find Yourself in Los Angeles; Andrea Harsell and Luna Roja, Something for the Pain; FreeWorld, What it Is; Chris Daniels and the Kings, Blues with Horns

BEST HOLIDAY ALBUM – Katie Garibaldi, Home Sweet Christmas; Balsam Range, It’s Christmas Time; Jennifer Hanson, Under the Tree; Beth Marie Anderson, Christmas with You; Bloodshot Records, 13 Days of Xmas; Blue Elan Records, A Blue Elan Christmas

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Male) – Matt Hawkins, Steel Ya Blues; Brandon Bonine, Remember my Name; Canyon City, Midnight Flight; Josh Johnstone, Just What it is; Rod Melancon, Dwayne & Me

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Female) – Janey Street, Undone; Dree Mon, Rebel Soul; Lexie Rose, Wrong; Katie Costello, Hearts on Fire; Rachel Ariana, Imperfect; Suzanne Santos, Ghost in my Bed

BEST VIDEO (OFFICIAL) (Group) – FlecHaus, Tell me Something; Satellite Citi, Undead; Elizabeth and the Catapult, Ambrosia; Oh Geronomo, No More Stones; Pet Fangs, Gold Coast Dreaming; The Flatlines, Indoors

BEST VIDEO (LIVE) – Sierra Blanca, Paint the Road; Bernie Faulkner, Potbelly Stove; CALICO the Band, The Leaving Kind; Rosi Golan, Underneath; Chelsea Williams, Anything Worth Saving

BEST VIDEO (LYRIC) – Mellott, Shooting Stars; Rachel Price, Love is War; The Rebel Light, Where did all the Love Go; Chris Chilton, Adonai; Jared Finck, New Kids

BEST VIDEO (HOLIDAY) – Redhead Express, Love is Christmas; Chelsea Williams, Peppermints and Mistletoe; Kate Steinway, White Christmas; Pam Taylor, Let’s Get it on for Christmas

BEST VIDEO (INTERNATIONAL) – Straw, Bang Bang; Straw, 1965; Captive (ft. Hannah Trigwell), I Could be the One

BEST VIDEO (COLLABORATION) – Blue Elan Artists, Shine Down on Us; David Garfield and J. Paris, I Lied; Beckett and Claire Ridgely, Butterflies

BEST SINGLE (Male) – Mikey Wax, “Spaceman;” Zvchvivh, “Think of Me;” Tim Maiden, “So Far Gone;” Matt Zambon, “Blue and Yellow;” Jason Crosby, “Final Step”

BEST SINGLE (Female) – Hannah Lucia, “Your Love;” Heather Bonds, “Keep it Quiet;” Ashleigh Watson, “Little Love;” Liz Kennedy (ft. Taj Mahal), “Everyone Knows how it Goes”

BEST SINGLE (Group) – Featurette, “Upside Down;” Delsinki, “Wishing Upon a Star;” Echo City, “Burn Me;” Astral Queen, “Take it all the Way;” The Sound of Ghosts, “Train to Nowhere”

BEST INTERNATIONAL ARTIST/BAND – The Fisherman and the Sea, Belle Miners, The Raft, HUNDREDS, Wolf & Moon

BEST COUNTRY ARTIST – Case Garrett, Tim Bennett, Whitney Lusk, Kaylee Keller, Ryan Sims

BEST COUNTRY BAND – CALICO the Band, Steve Azar and the Kings Men, Honey County

BEST BLUES ARTIST – Pam Taylor, John Verity, Stacy Jones, Alastair Greene, R. D. Olson, Dave Hunt

BEST BLUES BAND – Paradise Kings, FreeWorld, Andrea Harsell and Luna Roja, BB and the Blues Shacks, Chris Daniels and the Kings, The McKee Brothers

BEST POP ARTIST (FEMALE) – Marina V, Cindy Alexander, Katie Costello, Alex Mabey, Maggie McClure, Rosi Golan

BEST POP ARTIST (MALE) – Curtis Peoples, Fernando Perdomo, Matt Westerman, Bryan Stephens, Ben Anderson, LeRiche

BEST POP BAND – Flood Coats, Seasonal Beast, Elizabeth and the Catapult, Warbly Jets, High Dive Heart, Laini and the Wildfire

BEST ROCK ARTIST – Billy Burnette, Rusty Young, Ben Lorentzen, Russ Carrick, Robert Francis, Peter Simpson

BEST ROCK BAND – The Khourys, Surf Rock is Dead, Social Repose, The Slants, Xs and Arrows, Dopapod

BEST R&B/SOUL ARTIST – Ray Goren, Leslie Clio, Zoey Clarke, Louise Lemon

BEST R&B/SOUL/RETRO BAND – The Marias, The Commotions, Burgess Meredith

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA ARTIST (FEMALE) – Lydia Loveless, Shannon McNally, Liz Kennedy, Chelsea Williams, Amilia K. Spicer, Suzanne Santos

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA ARTIST (MALE) – Rich McCulley, Marc Berger, Chuck McDermott, Jason Hawk Harris, Sam Marine, Vinnie Paolizzi

BEST ROOTS/AMERICANA BAND – Great Willow, The County Liners, JD and the Straight Shot, The Empty Pockets, Dead Rock West

BEST BLUEGRASS ARTIST/BAND – The Jerry Douglas Band, The Grascals, My Girl My Whiskey and Me, Tommy Emmanuel and David Grisman

BEST JAZZ/INSTRUMENTAL ARTIST/BAND – Tout, Noon, Monica Chapman, John McLaughlin, KRON

BEST DANCE ARTIST/BAND – The Innocent Bystanders, TYA, Elephant Stone, Niteshifters, Cara Frew

BEST REGGAE ARTIST/BAND – Never Ending Fall

BEST PUNK BAND – Franks and Deans, Emmer Effer, Hang Tight, The Paranoid Style

BEST HARD ROCK/METAL BAND – SBK, Vacant Home, Aviator, The Black Hand, Downfall 2012

BEST FOLK ARTIST – Ben Bostick, Canyon City, Garrison Starr, Fred Smith, Sierra Blanca, Brandon Luedtke

BEST FOLK BAND – Tony Lovato and MEST, Fire Chief Charlie, Amber Run, Nescora, FXRRVST

BEST TRADITIONAL FOLK BAND – Storywrens, The East Pointers

BEST PROG ROCK ARTIST/BAND – Orissa, Dave Kerzner

RISING STAR – Ray Goren, Kaylee Keller, Rachel Arianna, Gina Sicilia, Chelsea Williams

FAN FAVORITE:   This year’s competition was fierce, with 30 artists nominated.  However, it came down to a battle between two artists, and went neck and neck until the final day.  In fifth place was Flechaus.  Kate Steinway took fourth place by a slim margin to third place finisher Andrea Harsell & Luna Roja.  Second place goes to The Khourys.  This year’s winner is RACHEL ARIANNA.

Thank you all for voting and for your support of indie music.  We’ll be back on Monday with our next edition of Monday Mashup.  Have a great weekend.