Tag: Monday Mashup

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 28

And just like that we have moved into the month of October.  Today we’re enjoying our first day off work in nearly three weeks, and we took the time to go out looking for a somewhere to live (we’ve been crashing in my brother’s RV since we arrived here in July), went shopping for warm clothes (because all our stuff is in storage in Montana which is already under a blanket of snow), and otherwise took it easy.  We apologize for not getting more reviews done but frankly have not had the time (or energy) to do them after working long shifts).  We do hope to get back to them shortly.  In the meantime, here is our first Monday Mashup of October.

ANDY GRAMMER ON TOUR

Pop star Andy Grammer is currently on his “Don’t Give Up on Me” tour which will make a stop in Oklahoma City on October 15.  We will be there to review the show, and finally get the chance to meet him.  We have known his wife Aijia for more than 10 years, so this will be a treat for us.  Watch for the review soon.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single for this month comes from the alt-rock sound of Alex McArtor.  She is a dynamic performer and lays it all out with her single “Speed Into Air.”  We really love this track and can’t wait to hear the rest of her forthcoming album.

Next up is “Another Boy from The Last Morrell.  This one will bring back memories of early Billy Joel, and we simply love it.

Our next single has a throwback vibe reminiscent of Electric Light Orchestra, and we think now is the perfect time to introduce you to The Brilliance and their first single, “World Keeps Spinning .”  This one will get you grooving – kick back and enjoy it.

Our fourth single shines a spotlight on mental health via the incredibly gorgeous sound of singer-songwriter Ann King.  We hope that we will all become “Stronger” from listening to these words.

Our final single this week is from Geneva White, whose silky smooth vocals highlight the passion and power of her single “Frame.”  This is definitely an artist to keep on your radar – we think she is about to blow up.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video includes the haunting sound of Young Clancy, coupled with eerie cinematography on the hard-hitting song, “Up With the Birds.”  We are so glad we got the chance to experience this amazing artist.

Next up is a unique POV video from the band King Hiss for their song, “GTWHR.”  This one is a hard-hitting rock song that becomes even more powerful with the manner it was shot – almost like you were on stage with them.  Rock out on this one.

Our third video has a decidely 80s vibe and we truly dig it.  Check out “Private Show” from Black Marble.

Next up is the latest from Blue Élan Records artist and LA Music Critic Awards winner Chelsea Williams.  It is a stirring cover of Jackson Browne’s “These Days.”  This one will hit you right where you need it.

We close out this week’s indie roundup with the latest video from KidEyes for his single, “Malibu.”  We think we can all relate to the frustrations depicted in this video, while grooving to this incredible tune.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out Durango Songwriters Expo indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019 – vol. 27

As we end September and head into October, we are so happy that Patrick O’Heffernan has joined us as a staff writer.  His first review was just published, so check  it out and make sure you subscribe to the Blog so you don’t miss anything.  There’s a lot happening so let’s get right to it.

DURANGO SONGWRITERS EXPO THIS WEEKEND

If you’ve followed our blog for any period of time, then you know how important we think the Durango Songwriters Expo is.  It has launched the careers of quite a few artists, including Alissa Moreno, Tim Fagan and Meghan Trainor.  Not only that, but several of the attendees have won LA Music Critic Awards, including recent winners Jordan Siwek and Scott Krippayne aka PAEHNE.

We have been involved with it for several years and our founder has been part of a panel there as well.  Due to our recent move to Oklahoma City, we are unable to attend this year’s event, which opens on Wednesday night with a showcase in nearby Denver before officially kicking off with a showcase on Thursday and then runs Friday and Saturday at the Omni Hotel in Westminster, Colorado.  The event culminates with a concert on Saturday night which always features the legendary Big Al Anderson.  This year he is joined by Songwriters Hall of Fame member Tom Douglas, major hit songwriter Kate York (Little Big Town, Fall Out Boy) and Grammy-winning songwriter Fagan.  The Saturday concert is open to the public and tickets are available at the door.

OKLAHOMA CITY HAS A NEW FRINGE FESTIVAL

The first Fringe Festival was held in Edinburgh, Scotland and has grown to include Festivals around the world, including the Hollywood Fringe Festival, which is one of the biggest ones in North America.  Oklahoma City has now joined that elite group with the debut of Theatre Crude Fringe Festival, which opened on September 25 and runs through October 6.  The Capitol View Event Center is hosting the Festival.  For more information, click on their website.

INDIE FILM ‘MICKEY AND THE BEAR’ TO DEBUT AT MONTANA FILM FESTIVAL

Mickey and the Bear, an indie film set in Montana, will premiere at this year’s Montana Film Festival on Thursday, October 3 at 6 p.m. at the iconic Roxy Theater in Missoula before heading out on a tour of Montana.  If you are in Montana, we highly recommend you check it out.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Australian artist Riebourne.  We love her voice and think she has a great chance of cracking the American Top 40 scene with “Venom.”

Next up is LCBTQ+ artist Déyyess, who has a powerful message coupled with equally powerful vocals.  We think she is definitely an artist on the rise and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

https://soundcloud.com/deyyess/no-mans-land

Single number three is from pop duo Rule of Young, which we think deserves serious and heavy rotation on radio.  Check out “Lie Better.”  We can’t get enough of their harmonies and musicality.

Our musical voyage next takes us to Toronto for the alt-rock sound of Contour‘s new song, “Above You.”  Great vocals and a serious message  highlight this brilliant song.  Enjoy.

Our final single this week is a retro throwback to the days of disco.  Check out Sweetwood and their latest tune, “One and Only Lover.”  We guarantee this one will get you on the dance floor.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video is from another of the amazing artists at Blue Élan Records, Roan Yellowthorn.  We think she has truly nailed it with her latest, “Indigo.”  Let us know what you think.

From the beauty of the previous video we next present the stark reality of the rocking sound of Makes my Blood Dance on their new video “Sick as our Secrets.”  This one has a lot of food for thoughts and is truly visually stunning, with live concert footage included.

Our third video is an upbeat pop tune from producer Ferris Pier that features to amazing vocals of The Voice stand-out Abby Cates on the song, “Lift me Up.”  If this one doesn’t lift your spirits, nothing will.

Next up is the R&B/hip hop sound of The Greys on their latest “Drama.”  We love this one and would love to see them featured on Empire.

We close out this edition with a dark cover of the classic Pink Floyd song, “Another Brick in the Wall.”  This version shows a dynamic creative mind and we think it will quickly become a favorite on its own merits.  Check out LA’s own Nomad and Lola.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 26

And so begins the final week of September 2019, the start of the fall season on television.  Things are finally beginning to settle down here in Oklahoma City, and we are starting to get onto a regular routine that will enable us to post more articles and get back to doing what we absolutely adore – shining the light on indie music.  We thank you for your patience these past few months, and look forward to being an influencer in terms of the indie music scene.

LIFE.CHURCH RELEASES LIVE ALBUM

One of the changes in my life has been finding a new church to call home, and I have found that with Life.Church.  The church is based in Edmond, Oklahoma, but through a series of satellite churches, has a presence in ten different states.  I attend the campus in Midwest City.  Last Friday they released their latest CD of original worship music which was recorded this past June, and also released a video of the concert during which the album was recorded.  We are featuring the title track below.  These songs will fill you with hope and encouragement, and are contemporary enough that you will want to listen to them throughout the day.  Congrats to Life.Church on the release of God so Good, available digitally on most platforms.

DONS OF DISCO DOCUMENTARY SEEKS FINANCING

One of our favorite documentaries at the recent Big Sky Documentary Film Festival was Dons of Disco, which we also got the chance to see on the big screen in Los Angeles in May.  In order to get the film into theaters and streaming platforms, the people behind the film have launched a Kickstarter campaign.  Check it out and help if you can.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from the trash punk sound of The Hussy, who are “Sorry.”  We love the energy of this one and think you will too.

https://soundcloud.com/dirtnap-records/05-sorry

Next up is “Sweet Nothing” from Blinker the Star.  We love the chill sound of this song, and look forward to hearing more from this intriguing artist.

Our third single comes from Frames, an artist from Richmond, Virginia, with her latest single “House Show.”  We think this young lady has great potential, and can’t wait to check out her new album which was just released last Friday.

Next up is “Retrospective Outlook,” the latest from up and coming 17-year old alt-rocker Chris Mardini.  We think this artist has found a groove that belongs on the radio and has a lot to offer.  Check it out.

Our final single this week is from LA Music Critic Award-winning artist Kensington Moore, who is making us into an “Addict” to her music.  Just one listen and we think you’ll agree.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is especially appropriate as we soon enter into Halloween season.  Check out the creepy video for “Rising,” the latest from Weekender.

Next up is a sweet acoustic video of New Dialogue performing their latest hit, “Neon Ocean.”  If they sound this good acoustically, imagine how great they sound with full instrumentation.  Love those harmonies.  The band will be opening for the next Blue October tour, so catch them on tour.

Our third video comes from My Golden Calf, and is a soothing folky tune called “Rodent Roommate.”  Chill out to this one.

Our next video has a distinctive 80s feel similar to Flock of Seagulls and Human League that should entice you to want to hear more from Boy Harsher.  Here’s “Send me a Vision.”

We close out this week with a special video from an unlikely duo – multiple LA Music Critic Award winner Marina V and Dan Navarro, best known as one-half of the duo Lowen & Navarro.  They combine on a spectacular version of Pat Benatar‘s megahit, “We Belong” (which was  co-penned by Navarro).

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 25

It’s another week and we’re celebrating my brother’s birthday today.   It’s the last official week of summer, and it’s finally starting to cool down in Oklahoma City as we head into the fall.  So many great songs and videos have been headed our way, and we’re glad to share these with you.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is “Fine,” courtesy of The Honest Heart Collective.  We love this powerful and uplifting rock and roll song that deserves heavy rotation on the radio.  Let us know what you think.

Our next single is no less powerful although it comes from the singer-songwriter side of things and sounds closer to the style of Enya.  Listen carefully to Yvonne McDonnell and her song, “Mud,” all the way from the UK.

Single number 3 comes from S+C+A+R+R, a French up and coming R&B artist.  His first single, “White Lies,” is a great start to his future career.  Check it out here.

Single number four is “Reclaim” from Baby Taylah from Glasgow.  We love the beauty of the arrangement and think this one belongs on Top 40 radio.  Let us know what you think.

We close out our list of singles with the latest from American Matt LeGrand and Venezuelan Mestiza, “I’ve Been Watching You.”  It’s smooth and trendy, with its mixture of Latin hip-hop, soul and R&B.  We think it’s a solid hit.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up is a song that I can totally relate to, because it’s about the loss of your father, which I just experienced about 22 months ago.  This song is so well written and introspective but make sure you have some tissue handy.  Here is “Again for Me” by Kasador.

Our next video came out during our “black-out” period, but is worthy of sharing with you.  It is half-blues/half-classic rock and we love it.  Grab some “Lemonade” from Bobby Messano.

Combine the surf attitude of Huntington Beach, California with the rastafarian feel of Jamaica and you have DENM, who’s “Blowing up.”  This tune will provide you with the perfect farewell to summer song.

Video number four is a stunning interpretive dance for the latest from the amazing Erin K – “Sometimes.”  If this one doesn’t inspire you, then nothing will.  Hats off the the incredible dancing of Alex Neuff.

We close out this week with the unbelievable songwriting and voice of Los Angeles’ own Katie Ferrara.    Her voice says it all and the cinematography is absolutely beautiful, truly capturing the essence of her song “Loud and Proud.”  Come join the party.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 24

It’s been crazy here in Oklahoma lately.  ICYMI, we have relocated to Midwest City, a suburb of Oklahoma City.  We’ve been trying to get back into the groove here at the blog while finding and getting used to new employment and finding a place to live.  Sorry that we’ve been kind of random in our articles but we do hope to settle down into a regular rhythm soon.  In the meantime, here is some news on the indie music front, as well as five new singles and five new music videos to get  your week off to a great start.

UNSIGNED ONLY ANNOUNCES WINNERS

Unsigned Only has announced the winners for their 2019 competition.  The winners list can be found here.  Special congratulations to Anna Wolf of South Africa for taking home the Grand Prize.

ISC DEADLINE APPROACHES

If you’re interested in competing in this year’s International Songwriting Competition (ISC), the deadline for entry is September 18, 2019.  To enter, click here.

UPCOMING TOUR DATES

We will try to let you know about indie artists coming to Los Angeles.  If you’re planning on coming to LA, please let us know at least FOUR WEEKS in advance so we can publish them.  Here are some of the upcoming dates we have received:

September Mourning – 9/18 – Whiskey-a-go-go

The Dude Ranch – 10/3 – The Viper Room

NEW SINGLES

Our first single is an amazing work of art from classical band Little Kruta, who have reimagined the bulk of Metallica‘s work as classical songs with amazing female vocals.  Here is their first single, “One.”

We totally shift gears for our next single, a rock masterpiece that deserves heavy rotation now.  Check out “Animals” from Of the Wild, and put it on repeat.

Our third single features the amazing banjo sound of Union Duke.  Here’s their latest single “1-2-3,” and we’re putting this one on repeat.

Next up is the chill groove of Brainstory with their new smooth track, “Breathe.”  This one is perfect for your daily wind-down time.

Our final single this week is another chill tune, this time from Harrison Caldeira.  He tells you to “Man Up,” and we think you better listen.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up is the latest from UK superstar Effie and visualizes her song “Worship.”  We think this R&B slow groove will be super-helpful with your daily wind-down.

It’s a new month and Adera has another video treat for you.  Check out their latest, “Uneasy.”  These guys are on the fast track to the top of the charts.

Our third video this week is one we almost missed from 13-year old pop prodigy Anna Cole.  We think this one will have you dancing all over the house.  Check out “No Regrets.

Our fourth video is from the country rocking band Silver.  We really love this one and believe it deserves heavy rotation in country, Americana and pop radio.  We don’t think they will have to “Wait” for long to hit the top of the charts.

Our final video this week was made for kids, but we like it and think you will too.  Check out the amazing Laurie Berkner and her song “A Dollar.”

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 23

Are you ready for the new week?  We have five new singles and music videos for you, as well as some news from the indie music front.  On the LA Music Critic Award front, we finally have a battle for Fan Favorite brewing.  The first 30+ votes were all for one band, but two more have now entered the fray, and it’s a close battle.  The deadline for voting is midnight CDT on Wednesday, August 28, so remember to vote for your favorite band.  The winners will be announced on Friday.

INDIE MUSICIAN NEEDS YOUR HELP

If you’ve spent any time on the LA music scene, then you are familiar with the amazing artist Jesse MacLeod.  Ari Herstand or Ari’s Take recently updated us on MacLeod’s medical issues.  Here’s his post:

“If you know Jesse MacLeod, you know his heart. If you’ve heard his songs, you know his soul. He was one of the first friends I made in Los Angeles and has remained one of (my)  best friends ever since.

He is loyal and caring. Supportive and compassionate. And I don’t have to tell you how incredibly talented he is. He writes soulful, heartfelt songs that captivate even the most skeptical rooms. He knows how to craft a lyric that can seem so simple, but penetrates you right to your core. Whether he’s singing about getting busy in the restaurant bathroom with the waitress, or stumbling through a relationship ‘just being a man’ or simply having a ‘real good feeling’ about a new love interest, his music makes you feel right at home. He’s got one of those voices that you want to take a long road trip listening to. Or grab a lover and slow dance to. He’s one of my favorite singer/songwriters. And an all around great guy.

Many of you know that Jesse got melanoma a couple years ago. At the time it was contained to his lower lip. After surgery, reconstruction and radiation, he went into remission. Unfortunately, it has come back with a vengeance. It has metastasized and Jesse currently has multiple tumors of varying sizes in his lungs, hip, shoulder, ribs and lymph nodes.

He will be undergoing treatment and will be fighting this thing with everything he’s got. But he needs our help!

He will be staying with his parents in Memphis during this process, but he will be getting treatment in Los Angeles. I encourage you to give whatever donation you can to help Jesse along this process to help cover the plane tickets and the extra medical costs.

At the very least, please shoot him a message and let him know you’re thinking about him. He really appreciates it. And pop on one of his records (might I suggest “Just Being a Man” or “Real Good Feeling”) and spend some time meditating to his beautiful contributions to the world.

His music has affected and influenced me more than he’ll ever know.

Thank you for your love and support of Jesse during this time of need.”

NEW SINGLES

Our first single today comes from Canadian Margø and is a hot electronic pop tune called “Lovelost.”  We think it’s the perfect way to get your week off to a great start.

Our second single will give you an immediate feeling of deja vu, as the rich tones and musical stylings of Julian James will remind you of a cross between the rich voice of Van Morrison and the jazz greatness of New Orleans.  Check out “Looking for a Light” and let us know what you think.

https://soundcloud.com/julian-james-813506639/looking-for-a-light/s-Bm7gv

Next up is the sweet sound of Caitlin Nicole with her latest single, “Differently Able Man,” complete with a strong message and perfect harmonies.

Single number four is a straight-ahead country tune that reminds us of a cross between Montgomery Gentry and Blake Shelton.  Check out Matt Westin and “Stomp On.”

Our final single this week is from Peach Luffe, who is trying to become a Canadian citizen so he can be a full-time musician.  His latest is a deep song about hopelessness, set in an upbeat manner that entices the listener to truly listen to his message.  Check out “On my Side.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video is from a gentleman that truly needs no introduction.  it is a powerful video about sexual abuse and comes to us from one of the greatest country musicians of our time, Vince Gill.  Check out his message contained in “Forever Changed,” the latest single from his forthcoming album, Okie,

Next up is an animated lyric video from another pair of greats, Cherié Currie and Brie Darling.  It is a cover of “Do it Again” from The Kinks.  Enjoy their version.

Our third single comes from Adera, and we really love the sound of “Little Feather.”  The song talks about a topic we are all too familiar with – anxiety.  We think she nails it with this visualization of her song.

Our next video has collected more than 3 million views in less than 10 days, and combines two of today’s best – Lauv and Anne-Marie.  Check out “F**k I’m Lonely.”  We bet you can relate to this one.

We close things out this week with the fun sound of Lush Puppy with their insanely fun video for their latest song, “Ms. Grey.”  This one should tide you over until the next edition.  See you soon.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup Singles and Videos Women in Entertainment

Monday mashup 2019: vol 22

There are very few challenges that I have been unable to meet in my life, but trying to become a shift manager at Pizza Hut is on that list.  As a result, I am actively pursuing other employment and have an interview tomorrow for another customer service job.  I apologize for my lack of attention to this blog, but it has been hard to concentrate on music when I was fighting such an uphill battle.  Thankfully, that battle is over, and we’re back to start a new week with the latest Monday Mashup.

On the LA Music Critic Awards front, we have not been getting the number of views that the nominations normally bring and as a result there has only been one artist nominated for Fan Favorite so far.  We strongly encourage the nominated artists to rally their fans in this regard.  Your fans still have until August 28 to vote.

We are redefining our scope of reviews, and plan to follow this format in the future.  Mondays (Monday Mashup) will feature singles and videos, and recent artist news and updates.  Tuesdays and Thursdays (Tuesday/Thursday Treats) will feature reviews of artists we are familiar with and have previously reviewed.  Wednesdays (Unknown Wednesdays) will feature new artists who have not been previously reviewed by this blog.  Fridays (New Music Friday) will feature reviews of releases scheduled for that day.  We hope that you enjoy our new focus.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from a new artist who came to our attention courtesy of The Village Idiots.  Her name is Allanah Jeffreys and we think that she has an amazing future, if her latest song “Loyalty” is any indication.  Enjoy this piece of amazing artistry.

Next up is the intriguing sound of Teach me Human, who sound similar to Crash Test Dummies.  We really love the sound of their latest single, “Lonely Night,” and think it just might be the breakout hit they need.

Our third single is the latest jazz masterpiece from Lady Antebellum guitarist (and LA Music Critic Award winner) Slim Gambill.  Here he teams up with Jeff Coffin for the masterful “54321.”  This one deserves a Grammy!

Next up is a smooth synth-pop/rock artist by the name of Emily Breeze, and we really are digging on her sound.  Check out “Work” and see if it doesn’t brighten your day.

Our final single this week is from Axel Mansoor, and this incredibly sweet groove should get your week off to a great start to “Paradise.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is a video with breathtaking cinematography from Soaware.  Check out the rocking sound of “Voltures.”  We last featured them back in April, and their rocking has only improved.

If you love blues rock then you will love the latest from Dudley Taft, “Give me a Song.”  We think this one will power your week.

Our third video will remind you of the powerful vocals of Adele, but this artist may make you forget all about her.  She is a powerful force who we think will be on the music scene for a long time.  Check out “99” from Harlea.

Next up is the synth-heavy sound of Holliday Howe, who’d “Rather Forget.”  We think everyone can identify with the sentiments expressed in her video, and think she has a definite future in indie music.

We close out this edition of Monday Mashup with the latest R&B goodness from Bassette, as she shows us that “She Bad.”  Get your groove on and enjoy this new week.

 

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

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 21 (updated)

We’ve reached Memorial Day, and the opportunity to remember those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep us free and strong.  Never forget what they did to give us the chance to live our own lives.

It was another busy week, working for Trendsource, completing the tech and dress rehearsals for my solo show at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey), and having the chance to see the latest masterpiece from the ladies and gentlemen of Cherry Poppins Productions.  They put on a masterful production of Clash of the Queens, which succinctly summed up the entire eight seasons of Game of Thrones, and sold out the Globe Theater in downtown LA in the process.

Speaking of my solo show, it’s hard to believe that my preview is less than two weeks away, with the entire Fringe kicking off with the Opening Party on June 12.  It’s going to be a great Fringe, and should be worthy of being the tenth year.  Please check out my show which will be at studio/stage (520 N. Western Avenue) on June 7 at 10 p.m., June 16 at 5:30 p.m., June 20 at 10 p.m., June 23 at 9 pm. and June 28 at 7 p.m.  Tickets are available on the Fringe website.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from Toronto.  If you’re going to catch something, we suggest you catch The Black Fever.  We simply love the sound of “No Work” and recommend that you listen intently to the lyrics of the song.

Our next single is a killer remix that combines Monsta X, Steve Aoki and DVBBS.  The song is called “Play it Cool” and it is mega-hot and a sure-fire way to get the gang on the dance floor.  Request it from your favorite DJ.

Our third single is an incredible song from London-based Theo Bard entitled “The Gift.”  It truly is an amazing electronic song with incredible vocals and well-crafted lyrics.  This one is a definite keeper.

Our next single combines electronica with jazz and pop and highlights the talent of the amazing KYOSi on her track, “Boo Radley.”  We think this one will become your favorite dance track.

Our final single this week is from the upcoming album Fuel the Crazy by Brazilian-born electro-pop artist Carvi.  We are totally digging on her “Vibe.”

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week is from teen sensation Maddie Rose, who delivers a stunning video for her song “Liv Tyler.”  This one is going on repeat and we think you’ll love it.

Next up is a video shot in Los Angeles by Trapdoor Social for their song, “The Move.”  The song is amazing, as is the video.  Be part of the solution and join in “The Move.”

Next up are the powerful vocals of Dejhare on her video for “Trust my Love,” which remind us of Madonna’s True Blue album.  We think this one is stunning and look forward to seeing what she does next.

Our next video comes from New York-based band Wild Planes.  Put on your rocking shoes and enjoy their latest single “Money.”

Our final video this week is from Aly and AJ, who we last heard from when their song ‘Church” was included in our March edition of Ten Great Singles.  They’re back with a beautiful video for their song “Don’t go Changing,” which could easily be a Top 40 hit.

 

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 20

It’s been a crazy week.  We saw Dons of Disco again on Monday night, and it was even better than it was when we saw it in February at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.  Tuesday and Wednesday we spent as a PA on set with Nina Storey on a video shoot for a proposed pilot, before heading out to Highland Park Bowl for Americana Nights with Nicki O’Neil, Manda Mosher and Emily Zuzik.  Thursday was rehearsal for my Fringe solo show, and a chance to review the Fringe show Human Fountains.  Friday we reviewed up and coming artist Casey Ahern at the Mint before spending the weekend in San Diego with family.  Watch for reviews of the music events this week.

NEW SINGLES

We kick things off this week with some EDM that will make you want to get up and dance the night away.  Clinton Tarantino has given us a glorious dance beat and we are sure you’ll be screaming, “Don’t Stop”all night long.

Next up is the powerful sound of Titus Calderbank, who reminds us of a cross between Adam Levine and Ryan Tedder.  We love this powerful song and think it could be a huge radio hit.  Check out “Mistakes.”

https://soundcloud.com/titus-calderbank/mistakes

Our third single is a slow R&B jam that will heat up your senses with the sweet vocals and bad-ass rhythm of Chanel Lóran on her single “Pretend.”  This one is smoking hot.

Our next single is the latest from punk-infused rock act The Band Gooch.  This one has great potential for a radio hit and we love the rocking sound of “Stuck with You.”

Our final single this week comes from rock goddess Hanna Barakat ahead of her upcoming album being produced by Disturbed’s John Moyer.  it is an intense journey that describes love as “Damage Done.”  Please let us know what you think about this one.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first video this week comes from LA Music Critic Award winner Diana Rein, and she shows why she is the “Queen of My Castle.”  Her version of the blues will lift your spirits and we simply love every note.  Can’t wait for her completed album.  We really love her new look.

Next up is the latest from folk/Americana singer-songwriter Franc Cinelli.  The cinematography is amazing, as are the words and vocals of “Horses.”  This one has great potential.

Our third video has all the charm of Jimmy Buffet with a little taste of Bob Marley and is beautifully shot at the beach.  Check  out “Lawnchair” by Shawn Perry.  Let’s party.

Our fourth video is much more serious and talks about the status of our world today.  We love the simplicity of the video, which allows the words and vocal delivery to drive their message home.  Check out “Dangerous People” from Pete Gardiner.

Our final video this week is from hard-rock band Take the Day, who is looking for someone to “Save me Now.”  This one will get you week off to a rocking start.

 

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Artists Worth Checking Out indie music Monday Mashup

Monday mashup 2019: vol. 19

We had a wonderful weekend.  On Friday we reviewed Doctor Nympho vs. The Sex Zombies and had a fantastic after-show hang with Alli Miller and Michael Shaw Fisher.  On Saturday, we headed down to the Hotel Cafe, where we enjoyed both Willie Wisely (with our friends Dan Kalisher and Erik Kertes in his band) and Jesse Macht and his band.  We were also happy to run into our friends Eric and Eliza Roberts, and have a chance to catch up.  On Sunday we got about halfway through our tech rehearsal for my solo show, Livin’ the Dream (a journalistic journey) for the Hollywood Fringe Festival.  Preview night is June 7, with additional performances on June 16, 20, 23 and 28.  We hope to see you at one of our performances.

NEW SINGLES

We have an extra treat for you this week, as this one fell through the cracks when it was first submitted.  It’s a little bit blues, a little bit zydeco and a whole lot of fun.  Will Jacobs is an American living in Berlin who is sharing the power of the blues with Europe.  His single is a tribute to his adopted hometown of Berlin, and is called “Berlin Bounce.”  Check it out – we bet you’ll be cutting a rug in no time flat.

Our first single comes from the band that made us fall in love with “Friends.”  The Rembrandts are back and getting ready to release their new album on Blue Élan Records.  Check out “Broken Toy.”  It perfectly reminds us of why we say “I’ll be There for You.”

Next up is a truly rocking song from a British band.  Their latest if called “Lita’s Place,” and it highlights what this band does well – entertain.  Check out Exiled – we think they’re going to be around for a while.

Next up is a song that is beautiful in its simplicity, stripped down to its purest form and perfectly performed by New West.  Here’s the latest single “Those Eyes.”

Single number four is a definite keeper from Goodside that is fresh but still oddly familiar.  It’s called “I’ve Been Feeling Something Lately,” and has a smooth sweet sound that is perfect for summer.  Check it out.

https://soundcloud.com/goodside_band/ive-been-feeling-something-lately/s-t3nT1

Our final single this week is from West Coast Weekend, and their funky retro song, “Heart Attack.”  This one has the feel of a Maroon 5 smash and could be a huge hit on radio.  Give it up for the next amazing pop superstars.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up is the remarkable and soulful sound of Kensington Moore.  We introduced this song to you in March as part of our Ten Great Singles, but it really comes home on the music video.  This song really got to us, and we think it could be a major smash.  Check out “I Don’t Like you Anymore.”

It’s amazing how a beautiful female voice can change everything.  Take for example the music of Ignescent a driving hard-rock band with incredibly sharp edges.  Add the voice of lead singer Jennifer Benson, and the fullness of the band is brought forth, much like what Amy Lee does for Evanescence.  Check out the lyric video for “Into the Night” – it will have you banging your head in nothing flat.

Our third video is for all you lovers of 80s/90s rock bands.  The master of guitar has returned and he’s better than ever.  Slash is now joined by Myles Kennedy and the Conspirators and they’re on a mission to save rock and roll.  Check out Exhibit 1, ‘Boulevard of Broken Hearts.”  Behold, the king returns.

Next up is a band that is heading for Los Angeles, and will be playing here at the Bootleg Theater on May 19.  They pack a powerful punch and remind us of back when the Red Hot Chili Peppers were huge.  They call themselves The Unlikely Candidates, but we think they soon will be your go-to choice for great music.  Here’s their video for “Novocaine.”

Our final video this is “Cry Like a Girl,” from one of our long-time favorites, Brooke Moriber.  We introduced her to you back in October 2015, and she was a nominee for the LA Music Critic Awards for the second half of 2015.  We think she’ll become one of your favorites as well.