Fresh New Artist: Shawn James [+ Free MP3]

I am a teetotaller, but Shawn James’s music made me want to lock myself in a basement with exposed red brick walls, break out the Scotch and drink myself into blissful oblivion while he sang of love, loss and life. Don’t get me wrong, his music isn’t depressing – on the contrary, it is quite profound. I have yet to find a fledgling artist who puts so much emotion into the lyrics and the melodies that you can’t help but listen with rapt attention.

Influenced by the likes of Son House, Robert Johnson and Ray Charles among others, and steeped in years of singing Gospel in the local church, Shawn’s music has “aged” beautifully and acquired a soulful quality that conveys many emotions at once. His debut album Shadows is a brilliant piece of work if ever I’ve seen any. His lyrics are honest, well-written and have a significant connection to the kind of music he makes. Perhaps what makes him stand out among others is his ability to use his voice as the “do-all-and-be-all” of the compositions. There is hardly any percussion; none, I would say. An acoustic guitar, and sometimes a violin and a tambourine, is all that is used in way of accompaniments.

“Shadows” opens with the lead track “The Wanderer”. It is an upbeat track in the manner of old-timey Gospel Blues, but not obsolete. I think this is the track where Shawn makes his personal statement as an artist – a kind of “Hello, I’m ____” tag that tells you who this man is, and what he thinks he is. 

It is followed by “The Shadow”, an out and out Chicago Blues track. Great harmonica riffs. But the track I loved most was “Midnight Dove”. The imagery of the lyrics coupled with the flow of the melody is quite fantastic. The strains of violin build a melancholy atmosphere, while the lyrics talk of hope. The song starts on a subdued note but crescendos into a controlled chorus, thus keeping true to the allegory of breaking through the barriers of hopelessness to find hope again. This could very well be a lullaby! (Check out Shawn’s website for the story behind the song).
What I like about this album is that the melody isn’t forced; it follows a natural stream of progression, which makes it very soothing and expressive. Not once do you feel like a song could have ended differently, or a refrain could have been reworked. Of his inspiration he says, "Growing up in church also had a huge impact on my musical ability and tastes as well. Seeing how people could be emotionally moved by music opened my eyes to the ability to control emotions through music." Adopting a very personal approach to playing live shows is also an integral part of the 'Shawn James musical experience'. And what might that be? "I moved to Fayetteville(with my beautiful wife) in January of this year and have made playing music my only job," he says. "It's going great because I've figured out how to make it work. It's not just through CD sales and playing shows, but also busking in the streets and playing farmer's markets and such. I like to bring people not only a show that's setup but also a raw version of myself and my music that a lot of today's musicians just don't do. Fayetteville has been extremely supportive of me and I love it here."

Check out the videos for "Midnight Dove" and "The Shadow" here:

My only grouse is that the production values in some songs are a wee bit sketchier than I’d have liked. The vocal and instrumental tracks don’t seem to have mixed properly. But other than that, this is an excellent work of art and you should definitely keep in your Blues collection.

Verdict: Folk and Blues has always been a potent combination, but it was never this intoxicating!

Fresh New Artist: The Jim O'Ferrell Band a.k.a. The J.O.B.

I remember when I first listened to Breaking Benjamin’s album Phobia back in high school; I had it on repeat for more than a week. I was totally addicted to the sound. The war imagery, in both the lyrics and the music, was a complete HIT as far as I was concerned. I couldn’t get enough of that kinda music, and I hadn’t till this morning. Enter The J.O.B. and that was remedied!

Band Members:
Jason Crawford: Electric Lead Guitar
Justin Poroszok: Bass Guitar & Harmony Vocals
Antonio James, Jr.: Drums
Jim O'Ferrell: Vocals & Acoustic Rhythm Guitar

Hailing from Richmond, Virginia (USA), The Jim O’Ferrell Band was formed when Jim returned from a stint in Iraq in 2008. Little wonder, then, that The J.O.B.’s music incorporates heavy war imagery. A case in point being their song Guardian (from the EP 'Letters'), which talks about life, peace and war from a soldier’s perspective. Blending acoustic and electric guitars with drums that make their presence known only occasionally, Guardian hits all the right notes effortlessly.

Messenger is heavier than Guardian in terms of the guitars and the percussion. The lyrics aren’t anecdotal; they’re more like a montage of images – broken, but painting a bigger picture. The distorted guitars coupled with acoustic riffs and Jim’s ardent vocals infuse true emotion into the track. Songs like Messenger prove that you do not need elaborate or poetic lyrics to effectively complement the music.

The J.O.B.’s newest single (to be released this July), Feel, is a more upbeat track filled with optimism and serene thoughts. This one has more of Americana in it than the other two tracks. But it still sticks to its Mod-Rock sound while exploring the more ‘folksy’ genre. Jim’s voice reminds me very much of Three Days Grace’s Adam Gontier. Overall, Feel is a great song to include in your Valentine’s mix-tape or ‘Sunny Days Playlist’ without sounding mushy. That’s a total win-win!!

Verdict: If you are a Breaking Benjamin fan, listen to this one. You’ll love it. If you’re NOT a BB fan, listen to this and you’ll still love it! (Although Breaking Benjamin is more Alt-Metal than Modern Rock, The J.O.B.’s music comes closest to their Phobia phase.)

Artist Review: Liv Lapaz

Sometimes, eccentricity is all that is needed to make good music. A desire to do something different, a willingness to exploit all the available resources and talent can take you places. Don’t believe me? Take a look at Liv Lapaz. Berlin-based independent artist Liv made his album Drown, Yeah with just a $50 guitar bought from a trashy Chinese music store in Beijing, and an iPhone. Apparently, he didn’t even own a laptop when he started recording the songs in 2011-12. But that hardly has any effect on the melodies he was able to coax out of “Li-Li” the guitar.

I was a little sceptical about the attempt at first. I mean, many have failed to create good music even with expensive studio equipment. So it was natural on my part to feel as I did about Liv’s ambitious yet down-to-earth venture. But then I listened to the whole album, song-by-beautiful-song, and it left me appropriately chastised for having pre-conceived notions about the artist’s recording methods.

Though I must admit, Liv is by no means a brilliant singer. But that doesn’t mean you can’t expect great songs from him. I mean, one doesn’t really have to be a Celine Dion or a Whitney Houston to sing a good tune. If it is simple enough, and if you put enough emotion into it, you might just end up with an awesome track that can redefine what good music stands for.

All the layering, all the arpeggios, add to the surreal experience that is Drown, Yeah. The songs have a signature, authentic sound that can only come from a single inspiration on the artist’s part. The lyrics are, more often than not, a little weird. But they are the good kind of weird that can totally pass off as being a tad eccentric. The guitar “Li-Li” is as much an artist on this album as is Liv. She has a presence, constantly emphasized by the haunting sounds and rhythms that he charms out of her.

Amongst the hauntingly honest tunes on offer, my personal favourite would be Lady Lamonade, The Deep and Das Kind und der See. Although, Melancholia is worth a listen too. Actually, you should listen to them all and decide for yourselves. But in my honest opinion, this is one experiment that merits attention.

I was very curious as to the fate of “Li-Li” after listening to the songs. So I went over to Liv’s official website and hunted down this piece of info:

Every Box(of limited edition CDs of Drown, Yeah) also contains a piece of "Li-Li", the acoustic guitar and only instrument that was used on the album. Li-Li was smashed after recording was finished. It was then cut into exactly 100 pieces, one piece for each Limited Edition Box.

I found that quite sad. It kinda reminds you of the typical heroine from Chinese folklore – a peasant girl fakes being a princess to save the Emperor’s life. All goes well, but the heroine dies of a stray arrow from an archers’ tribute. But if you are big on owning unique memorabilia, I’m sure you would like the concept of owning a piece of an instrument which was instrumental (pun totally intended) in the success of the album.

Verdict: An experiment in eccentricity that proves to be quite successful!

Rating: 4.5/5

Artist Review + Free Album Download: Gates

Gates is an ambient Rock band from New Brunswick, New Jersey. Formed in 2010, this fledgling ensemble has already recorded two albums, the latter of which (named You Are All You Have Left To Fear) released just last week on 29th May, 2012.

The band includes guitarist Ethan Koozer, once part of the dreamy indie-rock band Lydia. Though, don’t expect to hear Lydia-influenced music here! Whereas Lydia’s tunes were reminiscent of chill-wave indie rock sounds, Gates assumes a more aggressive tone – like that of an angsty teenager denied of his/her dreams. Like this you mean is a far cry from the vibes given out by guitarist Ethan Koozer's former musical mates.

Although Gates has been compared to the likes of Jimmy Eat World and Mineral, there is also a dash of Three Days Grace to their music. The song The Sound of Letting Go, with its powerful riffs and emphatic chorus is an excellent example of this.

All their songs have an angst, which hits you in the form of crashing cymbals, dreamy leads and aggressive bass lines. The lead vocals are an appropriate match for the sometimes-hot-sometimes-cold emotion of both the music and lyrics. Sometimes he lovingly croons into the microphone, sometimes laments his misfortunes and at other times screams his heart out as the instruments behind him hit a heartfelt crescendo.

Check out their limited edition CDs and Vinyl records. Apparently, the artwork and the overall aesthetic aspects were personally looked after by all members of the band. That is something you don’t get to see often. Personally, I feel their artwork pretty much represents what their music stands for. It definitely is a good idea to snag one of their original limited edition CD or vinyl while it lasts!

Gates have opened for acts like Moving Mountains, Pianos Become the Teeth, Brian Bonz, Rival Schools, Prawn, Gifts from Enola, and Punchline. They have even completed a successful tour of the US (or at least half of the US). Both their albums are up for free download.

So, my verdict is, they definitely deserve a listen!

You can DOWNLOAD both their albums for FREE.

Rating: 4/5

Artist Review + Free MP3: They Know

We all know The Beatles are a shining beacon of great music from the glorious past. The Doors, likewise, are another great offering from about 40 years ago whose music vibes still run strong even today. There aren't many artists today that exude the quaint retro charm that the contemporaries of these powerful icons did. Although no single artist or band can ever equal their musical prowess, there are those that come real close to capturing the zeitgeist of that era. They Know is one such band.

Originally an electro-acoustic duo consisting of Daniel Ehart (lead Guitars, vox) and Lee Raden (Keyboards, vox), They Know have been consistently producing tunes that would instantly appeal to both today's youth as well as children of the flower power decades.

[Pic: Lee Raden (left) and Daniel Ehart (right)]



Lee and Daniel are the resident song-writers of this act; sometimes writing individually, sometimes collaborating and otherwise giving significant inputs to the process. Though not yet a complete album (although work on it is definitely underway), all the songs carry a shared thread of sincerity along with the honest vocals of both Raden and Ehart. Couple that with deeply poetic lyrics, light percussion and melodious acoustic guitars, et voila! You have a unique, soulful sound!

What I love most about They Know is that they do not pretend to be something they are not. You will not find overtly pop references to love, life and all things in-between. Yes, they do write about these things, but in their own personal way. No cliches whatsoever. And personally speaking, Mr. Ehart has found himself a fan in yours truly. After Marko Saaresto, if I've ever liked someone's voice, it would be Daniel Ehart's. It is by no means perfect, having those little flaws. But it's the flaws that make his renditions so brutally honest and earthy.

Their album is expected to be out by late Summer or early Fall 2012. Meanwhile, you may find them on their Facebook page. Don't forget to download Summer '78 and Who Stole Your Heart Away for FREE here!!

Artist Review + Free MP3: Hana Kim

There are some songs that you feel are apt for your life's soundtrack. They may have lyrics that fit your situation, or they may have an upbeat tune that you can imagine playing in the background as you walk down the street on a sunny day. Indie/Soul singer-writer Hana Kim's music falls under such a category.
Imagine your life being one big chick-flick, and then imagine Hana's music playing in the background as you ponder over a Long Distance Call (a Phoenix cover) or consider living in Mexico. Her mellifluous, soulful voice, when accompanied by the piano, as in the song Leave You exudes a Colbie Caillat-like innocence, while the upbeat song Good Feeling has a peppy Lily Allen-like vibe. There is not a single discordant note to be found in this sleekly produced live in-studio album aptly title Studio Sessions.

But Studio Sessions isn't her only album. She released the single Almost Famous not too long ago and played at such venues as The Viper Room, Saint Rocke, Hard Rock Cafe, Room 5 Lounge, and many universities including CSU Los Angeles, UC Santa Barbara, CSU Long Beach, CSU Pomona, and many more. She has also participated in many events such as the Chula Vista Festival, San Diego Asian Film Festival and Asia's Got Talent (with Kaba Modern), KONNECT Panel, and been featured on media internationally (such as Paraguay's National TV Show "El Gigante De La Manana"). 

Another one of her EP, titled Until You Believe, was released back in 2010. It is evident from her work that she has a consistently appealing sound and continues to deliver impeccably produced music along with her dedicated posse of musicians. Check out her EP here. Also, Check out her video for the song Mexico which is also available for free download below!!

 Free Download: Mexico by Hana Kim.

Artist Review: Harry

It has been so long since I last wrote anything on here, it has been giving me pangs of guilt every time I checked my email and found a beautiful comment or a new artist update. But I'm back now and the first thing I'm gonna do is tell you about a great new artist!

Harry is a singer-songwriter from London (UK), with a sweet voice and a much mature outlook towards life than could be expected from kids his age. At just sixteen, Harry has succeeded in creating a medley of beautiful  tunes that touch your heart, whatever your age may be. His music portrays the innocence of youth with an uncanny peek at the mature soul inside. He has an easygoing, earnest manner of singing that is soothing to the ears. 

'This Is War' is a song that has an Enya-esque quality to it. Harry sings of war with such a calm demeanor that completely contradicts the nature of the idea that the lyrics convey. Most teen artists talk of being who you are, of being free and wild. Harry talks of being cautious, keeping your head down and being inside a shell. Of a life where enemies hide behind every corner and lurk in every shadow.
This Is War has the music that can lull you into believing he isn't warning you of a vicious war at all! Instead, it feels as if he is telling you of a faraway time when some faceless strangers fought their wars and left memories of the bloodshed; to be recounted by loving mothers to their little ones while they are being tucked into warm beds. Nowhere is the music harsh or exactly “war-like”. It kinda reminds one of The Call by Regina Spektor. The ribbons of string instruments in the background build up to an excellent, classical-inspired climax. This could be a perfect song to be considered for the next Hunger Games movie soundtrack. 

Harry's second song, ‘Bicycle that can fly’ shows the vulnerability of a lost child as analyzed by an adult mind. The song was apparently written when he was just ten years old. I wouldn't venture as far as to say that he had a really deep meaning in his mind when he wrote it originally. But maybe now, for people who listen to it at a much older age, it definitely has some philosophical connotations. The music is simple and elegant and accentuates his voice instead of drowning it out in a melee of instruments. The ribbons of cello in the background give the song a poignant quality. The minimal use of acoustic guitar evokes the feeling of a sunny day and fluffy clouds. The video is a dash of eccentric genius! Definitely something to make a note of.

I like how the strongest element in both songs is Harry’s voice, which is untouched by any kind of fancy filters or effects. His ability to emote the lyrics that he is singing is what makes the songs have the impact that they do. I guess some people are just born with oodles of talent, eh? Anywho, here is a sample of some of Harry's other songs. And you'll have to admit, these are just as great as the two I just reviewed. Enjoy these until I return next time with another interesting post. :)

Verdict: Harry is definitely an artist to watch out for. He just might be the next big thing!

Interview: Bedroom releases new EP "Toys"

Bedroom's debut EP Toys has finally released! Here is a little candid chat with the man behind the music - Noah Kittinger. A limited releasing of tapes of his EP will be out on a label called Furious Hooves. 

AMS:  How did being a "bedroom musician" come about?

Bedroom: I've always made music and have had recording gear and stuff. I just make music in my room away from everything. I like that way you know? It's like just me and creativity or whatever haha. It's great.

AMS: What was it like to produce your own EP? Any difficulties?

B: Not really no. Actually none at all. I recorded this first song which was "Opening/Intro" and I really liked the sound and vibe of it. So honestly the whole dream-pop/chillwave thing just recently came about and I'm sticking with it. It all happened pretty fast. The sound, buzz about the EP, the beginning of a future for me I guess.

AMS: Why name your first EP "Toys"? Any specific reason?

B: My buddy Chance made up some cool photos for me that had toys in them, and he like put Bedroom all over them. So I told him the name should be toys haha. not really a deep, poetic explanation but it sounds cool!

AMS: Do you have a particular musician or song that inspires you to make your own music?

B: Oh yeah for sure. I could go on and on but I think the song writing structure of my songs is really inspired by Youth Lagoon. I listened to his album "The Year Of Hibernation" and loved how it wasn't a verse, chorus, verse type structure. Before the EP, I always tried making my songs like perfect with the usual structure and had a really hard time with it. It took the fun out of making music for me. So recently, it all just kind of happened. My sound I would say is really inspired my artists like Wild Nothing, Beach Fossils, and even some hip-hop honestly. I've always liked the idea of keeping the drums electronic and distant sounding.

AMS: Is there a collaboration with other artists on the cards?

B: I don't know to be honest. That'd be pretty cool though!

AMS: Any live shows lined up in the near future?

B: Yeah! I'm working on getting a live setup together. I want to keep the drums electronic, so I need to work that out somehow. But yeah live shows in the future soon for sure.

AMS: Supposedly, you have a fan club to your name (along with a friend). Tell us about that.

B: Oh wow hahaha. My buddy and I made that back in like the 6th or 7th grade as a joke or something! We would just post random stuff on there for fun.

You can buy the EP here for just $1.50! That is dirt cheap man!! Sample the tracks below:

Artist Review: Hakanstone

What I wouldn't give for a day in the past, when I was a kid and gamboled in the neighborhood for five hours every day. The days when making forts was fun, but defending them was even more so. We would gang up and play pranks on the "grown-ups", trade trinkets and gum for a chance to play on that one kid's Gameboy and plan "expeditions" to the "far corners of the town" (which was usually within a one kilometer radius) on our bicycles. But not one of those smart-arse physicists have invented a time machine (yet). So I'll settle for the next best thing - Indie Ambient Sci-Fi Pop.

HakanStone is an indie pop project by Jens Hills with vocal contributions from KSharp, VHF, AHF and AJ Stubbs. With a signature Brit eccentricity, this act from East London (UK) personifies all that is "trippy". A quirky mix of pop beats from the flower power era and electro-pop from the wacky '80s makes up for majority of their mojo. I could totally envision this kinda music being played at a fashion event or as the soundtrack for a romantic scene in Gossip Girl.

The consistent feature in all the tracks is the very catchy beat. The style relies heavily on sweet vocals (whether male or female) that give the music an effervescent quality. Dance With Me has the potential to be the next "Young Folks". There is an unmistakable PB&J vibe in there somewhere, but HakanStone still remains original. The lyrics are mostly upbeat and peppy, like the music itself. The overall effect is that of minimal, clean, elegant music that exudes freshness.

Here is a track that is NOT on the album, but is really good nonetheless. That belongs in a freakin' club!!

Now a little about the collaborators, straight from the horse's mouth!

Contributors

Most of the time Jens works as an intellectual property and commercial business affairs consultant.

When not singing K Sharp mostly works in corporate responsibility - yep, corporate responsibility!

Jens and K were at university together.

Anthony Jackson-Stubbs does his thing with Paleday from his base in Brighton.

VHF is working through college and planning to be an artist, whilst looking to do some sessions and acoustic appearances.

AHF is going to tour South America, maybe with her sax, before studying Spanish and Portuguese at university.

VHF and AHF are Jens' daughters. It's a family affair.

Simon Rogers makes or produces music full time, including for film and tv. 

 The Album Story

Jens trained as a classical guitarist, gave up. Went to university, played in a band (yes K Sharp was the lead singer!), got offered a record deal. Didn't do it, became a lawyer. Simon Rogers went to the Royal College of Music and won the guitar prize. Became a successful artist and producer.

Simon was Jens' client.

Jens did lots of interesting work, including a number of copyright infringement cases, kept a project studio for this work and for fun. Discovered Garageband in 2008, worked up some tracks. Simon liked them and came on board. Daughters did their bits...

So now you know! Most of the guitar work and other instrumentation on the album is Jens with production touches by Simon. The drums are a mixed of samples, loops and fills, mostly sourced from www.drumsondemand.com, some from midi-guitar work. Idea was to create a virtual band...

Jens writes the lyrics himself, except for the lyrics on  Late Call, Impressions, Dance With Me, States of Mind, Chains and Control, which he co-wrote with K Sharp. About the future of HakanStone, Jens says, "I am lucky in that I have been able to do something to a result that reflects what I wanted to achieve creatively because of the friends I made in the music industry. Most importantly I have gained a lot of experience about the realities of trying to exploit music in the current climate. I hope to take this into a model for an Internet music streaming service which is an alternative market to the majors and which actually makes money for the musical contributors as opposed to the owners of the service. On the music side, I have a remix album planned (about 10-12 remixes), about 4 videos and a further album which will go into production later in the year. Big issue is whether we go live. It is essentially a studio project, although people think it is a band and we have received several enquiries from promoters."

My personal favorites from this 19-song double album are Spilt Milk (feat. VHF), Save My Soul (feat. A. J. Stubbs) and States of Mind (feat. KSharp). Another track to take note of is Gaston (feat. VHF).

You can listen to the whole album here or buy it from CDBaby.com. Trust me, it's TOTALLY worth the money spent! Follow HakanStone on Twitter and Facebook.

Verdict: Impeccable production and AWESOME music!

Artist Review: Bedroom (Noah Kittinger)

Forgive me readers, for I have sinned. It has been far too long since I last put up a post. I had one thing after another popping out of seemingly nowhere and hence the temporary absence from blogosphere. But worry not, I’m still alive and kicking (ass). :D

And I think you will find this long wait worthwhile if you care to read further. For what I have to offer today is a treat quite different from the usual fare. What would you say if I introduced you to the kind of music that you sometimes crave at night after many a days of hard work and neck pain and taking ‘boohockey’ from your boss, teacher, landlord, and whoever else that is a pain in the rear.

Bedroom is a pseudonym that Noah Kittinger makes music under. All of sixteen and the guy makes one helluva music; a quiet, ambient sort that will lull you into a sleepy, relaxed trance. Bedroom knows exactly where to hit you so as to soothe your frayed nerves. I say this from experience. And I plan to listen to it right before I appear for my biochemistry paper. (God knows I need to relax before that horror strikes!)

There are only two songs out as of now. One being ‘Concrete’ and the other one an intro to the upcoming self-produced EP titled “toys”. Apparently, the idea for ‘Concrete’ struck Noah in a dream. It’s a sweet track that reminds me of childhood memories; of candies and this one particular memory involving a dandelion blossom (dunno where that came from). I never knew a guitar could be capable of taking me to that happy place I knew so long ago. The reverb really adds that touch of dream-like quality to the song. And the synthesizer keeping a constant beat in the background is a stroke of genius! Noah’s voice and the instruments blend into one another so beautifully, you cannot help but dim the lights, close your eyes and remember the smell of fresh-baked apple pies or butterscotch candy. I know I’m being graphic with the description, but sometimes, music is best described with the feelings it evokes.

If you’re in search of a new lo-fi ambient track for your bedroom, then Bedroom’s your best bet. And let me add a bit about the cover(s). I dunno who did the photography for those, but they are freaking awesome! I mean, it is so tasteful, so subtle, and it embodies the soul of the album, the music so well! I would like to specially congratulate Bedroom for that.

Now, a little about the man behind the music: Noah Kittinger is a sixteen year old high school student from Nashville, TN. He’s been playing the guitar since he was about eight years old. He started experimenting with other instruments over the years. So, now he plays drums, bass and the piano too! He started making his own music at the tender age of thirteen. When asked if he was influenced by the country scene in his native city, he’s quick to reply, “Not really. I’ve never really been into country music. I mean, I love listening for those crazy good guitar solos in some country… but I’ve never been a fan of it.”

So, do we have the next Owl City in our midst? I would say no. Noah represents a whole new breed of musicians who love to give their listeners just what they need: one part nostalgia and nine parts great music!

Don’t forget to download the tracks here. Also, give the kid a like on his FB profile. You know he deserves it!

Band Review: Splendid Chaos

I am HOOKED! I just can't stop listening to this band ever since I found them a month or so ago. It won't be too far away from the truth if I said that their song "Staring at the Sun" has been kind of a soundtrack for some of my more intense moments. It gives me a kind of enthusiasm, a zest to tackle the difficult phase I've been facing lately. Well, that and my beloved books and close friends. The chorus that goes "I'm not the one/ who will burn out/ staring at the sun/ Inside of me/ is a fire like you've never seen", perfectly describes what I feel right now.

Band Name: Splendid Chaos

Members: Mike Hall - Vocals/Guitars

Terry Sharp - Guitars/Backing Vocals

Mike Oakley - Drums/Samples

Jake Fountain - Bass/Backing Vocals

Genre: Rock/Alternative Rock/Metal

Formed: 2000

Location: Brandon, Mississippi (USA)

The band from Brandon, MS (USA) was formed in the year 2000 and has made music that spans the Alternative/Hard Rock/Metal genres. They’ve performed with such bands as Hinder, Staind, Trapt, Saliva and Three Days Grace. Their music could well be categorized as being a reflection of the bands they’ve performed with. Emotions and angst just ooze out of every one of their compositions, painting before us a brilliant display of creativity coupled with prodigious skill.

They released the CD Burn It Down in early 2010, of which “Staring at the Sun” is a product. Mike Hall’s vocals, Terry Sharp’s guitars, Mike Oakley’s drums, and Jake Fountain’s bass do make a truly splendid chaos! “Come and Get It”, “Energy”, and the titular track “Burn It Down” literally pulsate with a raw energy that is totally infectious. The various element of the band gel together so perfectly, they seem as various limbs of the selfsame being. Okay, enough said; I better let you sample their music and decide for yourself whether YOU like them or not.

Verdict: Abso-fucking-lutely AWESOME music! \m/

Band Review: In Cages

Who knew I'd have my first request for a review so soon? And I am so thankful that it was a good band like In Cages that requested it. That means I dared not refuse them the review they deserve. So, being me, I jumped at the opportunity to spread the word about their talent!

So, our Fresh New Artist today is In Cages from Hillsdale, New Jersey, US. Formed by "Five minus one, musicians from New Jersey who had similar views", this band is a motley crew of four quirky beings.

Band Review: The Longest Night

Band Name: The Longest Night

Members: Robbi Selin - Vocals & Guitars

Will O' Donnell - Guitar

Jared Greaves - Bass

Jason Rampersad - Drum

Label: Unsigned

Location: Barbados

Band Review: Fighting Gemini

Sometimes, you just stumble upon good music when you least expect it. That is how I found Fighting Gemini   very unexpectedly. The first song I came across was 'Naked or Buried Alive', and I thought, "Cool! A new Daughtry song." But then a minute into the song, I was like, "Now wait a minute, that's not Daughtry." Fighting Gemini have their signature stamped all over the chorus of that song. Though not a completely new sound, it was intriguing enough to make check them out. And I'm glad I did too. 

                                 

                                                       Photo Courtesy Fighting Gemini

Their other song, 'New Friend', has a sound that is more their own. It is a pacy song with some awesome crunchy guitars and drums that totally hit you in the gut! 'Test Drive' has the rough, edgy quality that can get the blood coursing through your veins and rushing in your ears. The gritty guitar riffs and punchy drums woven with Mike Donnell's spirited vocals make for a great Alt/Rock number. One of them's sure going on my playlist. (Check the sidebar). 'Tonight' is a clean piece of Adult Rock that should not be passed up if you really want to know what this band is really about.

I found it amusing that they should cover "Poker Face' by Lady Gaga; they just didn't seem the type. But they've done a good job making the song more alternative than the theatrical pop it originally was. Fighting Gemini has now officially joined the ranks of rock bands who have covered a Gaga song. They're soon coming out with their first full studio album. Hmmm... the songs have sure piqued my interest enough to wait for the album. Let's see how that turns out.

Verdict: They are like a tribute band to Nickelback and Daughtry.

Official Website: www.fightinggemini.com

Myspace: www.myspace.com/fightinggemini

Some Awesome Bands You've Probably Never Heard Of

They say music is the best way to unwind after a day’s hard work. Whether you prefer Ludwig van Beethoven or Lynyrd Skynyrd, there is a tune out there for every soul and every mood. Often we have that one artist that we follow diligently and try to find others with a similar sound. But most of us have a limited search radius that doesn’t go beyond mainstream music. More often than not the indie and local scenes can afford us much more and sometimes much better entertainment.

Here are some bands that have the potential to make it to the main stream but haven’t had the opportunity to. Conversely, some make it a point to stay indie to escape the pressures of delivering for a commercial record label just for the sake of churning out EP’s, LP’s, and singles. From the world of indie and underground music here are some of the gems that you MUST have on your playlist.

1. NEEDMORE: Formed in the year 2007, this band from Dayton, Ohio (USA) is a strong contender for an impending mainstream exposure. Having already topped MTV OurStage’s Rock charts,

NEEDMORE has also composed music for a few commercials and worked with producers Jeff Juliano (John Mayer, Train, Lifehouse, DMB), Dave McNair (Sara Barielles, OAR, Flyleaf), and Tony Alany on their newest single “Lost My Way”. Impeccable production values, sleek sound and that one hidden ingredient you really can’t point out makes this band a truly enigmatic act. Lead vocalist, guitarist and pianist Garett McArthur has a captivating voice that works well with the band’s overall musical style. Their song “Late Night Drive” is a must-hear for anyone looking to judge their musical prowess, although “Lost My Way” is a good candidate too.

Official Website: http://www.needmore.net/fr_home.cfm

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/NEEDMORE/76368671232?v=app_178091127385

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/NEEDMORE

2. Fools For Rowan: They have a smashing female vocalist, a rocking female lead guitarist and freaking awesome line-up of musicians. What more do you look for in a great rock band? FFR, from Nashville, Tennessee (USA) came up with their first full album “Twisted. Tied Up. Tangled.” in November 2009. It included the hit single “Dead” which happens to have a great video to go along with the equally great music. Comprising of five members, FFR recently opened for Evanescence in Nashville’s War Memorial Auditorium. The lead vocalist, Erin Mullins, has a vast vocal range. According to the band’s website, “She brings her brand of “Lipstick Rock” to the group…a style of “male oriented rock” from a woman’s point of view. It’s a touch of Nickelback and Kings of Leon…but also reminiscent of such female led acts as Paramore, Heart, Pink and Pat Benatar.”

Official Website: https://www.foolsforrowan.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/foolsforrowan?v=wall&viewas=0

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/foolsforrowan

3. Cynical Recess: Well, these guys aren’t completely unheard of, but they still deserve a place here. Why, you ask? Because a powerful musical act like that should not be passed on without a mention! This six-piece progressive glam rock/ metal band from Kolkata (India) has won various accolades in the past three years, including performances at I-Rock, Hornbill National Rock Fest, RSJ Pub Rock Fest and Unseen Underground Pub Rock Fest, among others. Lead vocalist Abhishek has the kind of voice that brings to mind the likes of Gene Simmons (KISS) and Steven Tyler (Aerosmith). The guitars and the drums strike just the right balance required to bring the best qualities of their music to the fore. “Move On”, “Chains”, “Goodbye Sunday”___ take your pick, ‘cause this band has got no dearth of good songs.

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/thecynicalrecess

Reverbnation: http://www.reverbnation.com/cynicalrecessindia

4. Damian Cullen Band: “The new Finnish [sic] based Damian Cullen Band stinks of angst & attitude, contains more glamour than any top shelf dirty magazine and is armed with what can only be described as classic rock anthems that bite deep into the bone. Damian Cullen Band is Jim Morrison, Johnny Rotten & Glen Danzig in a melting pot.” That’s what you’ll find on the profile page of the band. In short, DCB has a sound that is sometimes similar to their fellow countrymen The 69 Eyes but they still manage to maintain their own identity. Goth, glam, classic, punk___ DCB is all this and even more.

Official Website: http://www.damiancullenband.com/

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/damiancullenfi

5. Requinox: With a style that spans the Rock/Heavy Rock/Metal genres, this tenacious band from Oslo (Norway) is quite a handful. What I like about them is their weird choice of song names. Sample these: “Jackie the Stripper”, “Mr. Maniac Murderer”. Heavily reliant on powerful guitar riffs and drums, their music has the pick-me-up effect you need when you feel like pounding the next person to dirt. Although you may end up pounding them anyway, but with Requinox’s music as a fitting background score! Jokes apart, if you are the kind to like your music raw and rough ‘round the edges, Requinox is your band.

Official Website: http://www.requinox.net/

Myspace: http://myspace.com/requinox

6. Cure for Caska: Mixing classical instruments like upright bass, cello and violin with pop/modern rock, CFC have come up with a sound that appeals instantly to all your senses. The lyrics, combined with Matthew Hayes’s soft voice carry you to a happy place. This quintet from Orlando, Florida (USA) has already found a place on several local charts and radio stations. The song “13 Hours, 3 State Lines (Give Rosette Away)” from their new album “Wait and Hope” is an excellent representation of what this band stands for. Go check them out if you are in need of a musical fix.

ReverbNation:  http://www.reverbnation.com/cureforcaska

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/cureforcaska

Note: All pictures used above are the properties of the respective artists.  I do not claim any right to the same.