Fdn Jusu "Into the Sunset"

Sometimes I wish real life had Hollywood-film endings. Like, think about the way stories in film tend to wrap up, the main character says something clever or profound, and then BOOM; credits roll. It's a great way to think about consequence-free resolutions. 

So, today I stumbled across Fdn Jusu's new track "Into the Sunset" (and may I just take a moment to remark how badass this cat looks in his cowboy hat), a very melancholy ballad about heartache and hurt. It made me think deeply regarding how all of our conflicts are never really final - just ongoing. For me, I would cherish a life-story where I could in fact ride off "into the sunset," but we have obligations and people depending on us. In short, our story HAS to continue. Fdn Jusu has a terrifically modern sound, heavily reverbed and auto-tuned, but sings passionately which cuts through any FX. Check out his other ballads and songs on his AppleMusic page here. 

John Vento "Taxi"

I think there is a big difference in the motivation behind artists covering other artists' material. For me, there are those (particularly younger artists) who simply enjoy a track and think "yeah, I'd like to also sing that song" (which is perfectly fine). And then there are those who deeply understand the original in a way that shows an intimate knowledge of the artist and their work. John Vento's newest performance of Harry Chapin's song "Taxi" certainly fits the latter. 

Vento's smokey voice is a perfect fit and his backing musicians seem just as passionate as he is about Chapin's hit from many years ago. It's also really nice to see this track in a live setting where we can experience the players' personalities more. It might be nice to hear more cover tunes by Vento - he does seem to have a knack for capturing the original spirit of a tune and putting his own spin on it. 

Ed Roman "Happiness"

Ed Roman is someone we've been covering for years - his rock, folk, and generally charismatic outlandish style is something that is very alluring (and if I'm being honest, really good for boosting readership over here at CMT). So, when he released his song "Happiness" back in September, and I missed it, I decided I needed to post a blurb today. 

Is it just me or is there a little bit of reggae or Hip-Hop going on here? Like when he started at the verse, it almost sounded like he was going to start rapping. There is an improvisatory aspect to "Happiness" which is as much instrumental as it is a song. And not to sound like a broken record on this blog, but the inclusion of synth on the chorus, makes me a ***Happy*** listener (see what I did there?)

Barista "Dreams Remix B"

Many readers will remember the artist Barista from the reviews we published on his earlier "Open Sesame" songs. Another instalment in his talent is out with his track "Dreams Remix B," featuring an angelic female vocalist, slick guitars, and atmospheric effects. It's a dance-tack in a lot of ways, but the inclusion of organic instrumentation gives it a gravity that is often lacking from other songs of the genre. 

The hook is an unbelievably catchy melody, and the love-song lyrics are engaging. With lines like "you're all I want to see, your voice is all I want to hear..." reminds me of the old Persian poets who wrote things to be ambiguous with intentional double-meanings, like "is this about God, or about earthly love?" And in those questions that art poses, the meaning is found. 

Richard Lynch "Christmas Time"

Well, folks, the holiday season is upon us and while I think it's been a stressful year for just about everyone, it's good to know that in this culture of America, there are still a lot of people out there focusing on giving thanks for the blessings we have. Namely family, friends, and life - which is really what is summed up in the Christmas season. 

Country singer and songwriter Richard Lynch taps into this sentiment in his latest release titled "Christmas Time." The song is charming, with a lyric video on YouTube featuring still shots of children, family, and home settings = all happy images, which is something I think we all could use in this time. The song features all of my favorite trappings when it comes to the genre, especially that slide guitar in the chorus. I'm hoping that this track will be included in everyone's party music through the new year. 

Tom Tikka & The Missing Hubcaps "By 2022"

Tom Tikka is no stranger to being prolific; in September of 2021 he released the album titled "This Is My Happy Face." The tracks are very reminiscent of earlier Rock n' Roll from the 70's and are enjoying a great deal of success among the usual players in social media ("This Is My Happy Face" is certainly the subject of more than a few blog postings).

So he's continuing in that prolific vein by releasing a new track for the new year - with a video set to premiere on Dec 3, in 2021; this one to be called "By '22." I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek, which is a privilege I enjoy, I imagined the track will be up to his standard excellence both as a musician and as a lyricist - and I was right. The song is reflective and enjoyable. It makes me wonder what Mr. Tikka is anticipating in 2022, for my part, I'm hoping for peace and unity - but we'll see. 

Tedi Brunetti "Eat, Sleep, Repeat"

In the midst of today's mundane world, the search for meaning seems to be ever-elusive. I can't imagine I'm the only person reading this who's asked themselves "is there a point?" And it's nice to find sympathetic music where we can. It's especially nice if said music comes in the form of smokey blues from a veteran musician of the genre. 

Drummer and singer Tedi Brunetti's new song "Eat, Sleep, Repeat" is quite catchy and tackles some of the issues I've been wrestling with above. I especially enjoy watching the video of Mz. Brunetti walking around her city interacting with folks. The groove of "Eat, Sleep, Repeat" is irresistible and Tedi's voice is perfect for the style. She's got a whole playlist, so give her music a spin. 

Lady Redneck "Don't Try to Take Our Guns"

Many of you will remember the adorable Stephanie Lee (AKA Lady Redneck) from her equally adorable song: "I dented your truck..." Now she's taken a stand that, according to her, was scary but necessary titled "Don't Try to Take Our Guns." But here's the thing folks, I can't find this song anywhere, just a dead YouTube link with a "Video Unavailable" disclaimer on the YouTube-Lady Redneck-page. 

I don't want to sound overly conspiratorial here, but is it possible that the song was struck down by internet social media companies and their anti-free speech policies? Why should a prominent artist like Lee have a song that is so difficult to find? The whole thing seems rather fishy and is hopefully sorted out soon. I try not to take moral or political stances on this platform, but if there is one thing that I am, it is ardently in favor of free speech, so, when the song does resurface, I hope everyone streams it constantly. 

NatStar "The Code"

We haven't heard from NatStar for a little while - and now I think I know why. He's out with an ambitious and staggering 21 track album titled "The Code." I find it rather heartening to see that in a world of single releases from virtually all the major icons of the day, that a young artist has taken the time to craft something that demands a longer attention span than our average Tic-Toc video. 

NatStar shows a slightly more vulnerable side in this work - and it's cool to see him evolve into a mature and thoughtful man. The tracks seem to lean to the slow side (which is something I really appreciate), it's hip-hop for reflection but not overly heady or didactic - instead, it's perfectly down to earth and relatable, but you know, only the way that NatStar can do. 

Sandra Esparza "Mind Goes Blank"

OK, here is a revelation for me - I was passed this track by singer/songwriter Sandra Esparza titled "Mind Goes Blank..." And my thought was "wow, she sounds great, with sharp original lyrics, interesting voice, pretty guitar playing... but the RECORDING! I mean, it sounds like she just put up a microphone in front of a tape machine and performed." I was turning in my mind how to reach out to her, so that I could kindly re-work her recording, you know, a touch of reverb, some eq/compression, maybe a little more saturation... etc. And then it dawned on me - that's the point dummy; almost every recording is overworked from a tech-standpoint.

So, this is the lesson, oftentimes it is just far better to sound like you're practicing in your bedroom. Because, let's be honest, how many people get invited into your bedroom? There is a level of intimacy that exists with this kind of artform. I would encourage you to go have a listen to "Mind Goes Blank," and indeed, the rest of her album because it's well worth the time. 

H2SO4 "Fixated"

In a world of disposable relationships, it's heartening to know that there is still the potential for intense emotion to be a poetic/artistic subject. Certainly, all of us have experienced such "infatuation" - a state of mind where the object of our affection seems to take on an almost superhuman persona in our imagination. This is very much the vibe I get from the cross-genre cats over at H2SO4, with their new track "Fixated." 

"Fixated," has a beautiful wall-of-sound-synth orchestra quality that does an awesome job filling my speakers. The groove laid down by the bass part is catchy and satisfying when it makes several reappearances in the song. Vocals sound like they're done through a megaphone, or some such emulation, which matches the backing track perfectly. "Fixated" is sexual, gritty, and very daring in the artistic directions it takes. 

Rockidle "Autumn Air"

I've always thought of myself as a Fall-kind-of-person; as the days get shorter, colder, and darker, I find that the atmosphere is conducive to self-reflection and evaluation. This is very much a sentiment I get from Rockidle's newest song/music video "Autumn Air," a very folk-rock ballad featuring beautiful instrumentation and lyrics in the track as well as lovely outdoor scenes in the video. I couldn't find too much information about Rockidle - but suffice to say, he's a seasoned chap who seems to ponder the big questions in life. The lyrics are confessional to a degree, but always very relatable. If you're a fan of 60's and 70's folk, I imagine you'll be right at home listening to "Autumn Air."

Birds Over Arkansas "Sunflower"

Long-time readers of CMT will remember how often I write about art thriving on simplicity - or rather, elegance might be a better description of songs that center around lovely chords, melody lines, lyrics instrumentation, and vocals. "Sunflower" by Birds over Arkansas has a folk-sensibility and a hint of country flavor in this new ballad. I could easily imagine this tune as the credits song to a heartfelt film, picturing the sun setting and things have resolved in a way that makes the characters appreciate their lives in a new light (but that's just my overactive fantasy-mind). Birds Over Arkansas have done a beautiful job, giving us a beautiful song. 

Fallen Angels "Merchant in the Middle"

Modern glam-rock band Fallen Angels is out with a new track titled "Merchant in the Middle." For fans of flashy rockstar culture backed up with a lot of talent, you won't be disappointed. High tenor gravely vocals accompanied by tight lead and bass guitar - along with a pulsing beat, you'll feel like it's 1987 in a stadium drunk from the vodka you smuggled in. We shouldn't get all hung up on nostalgia though, there are plenty of modern aspects to Fallen Angels, especially the bass break and backing synthesizers that chime in the pre-chorus. "Merchant in the Middle" does exactly what it's supposed to do... rock!

Artist Interview: Sharmila

MW: Thank you so much for taking the time to speak with Current Music Thoughts

Sharmila: thanks you too, it means a lot to me to share my story.

MW: I think, more than anything, that your SoundCloud listeners are hoping for something new from you. So what’s on the horizon?

Sharmila: In 2018 and 2019 i wrote new songs for my album ´DNA Damage´, but my country Holland stopped me from doing what i love since 2012. The truth should get out once and for all. My 25 year old daughter Tanisha and me have been assassinated from 2012 until she died in april 2021 and until present it´s still happening now. So if i die it´s not an accident, it´s murder by the white aryan race. For many years we fought against the forces of darkness in Holland. Tanisha and me should always have been inviolable from what i believe, she deserved the Crown that´s for sure.

In april i lost my sweet angel daughter Tanisha who was the most amazing young woman on the planet, she had a heart of gold and many many creative talents. We always got along very well and our bond as a mother and daughter was always very strong. Tanisha was my only child and i loved her more than anything in this world and always will.

That Tanisha died didn´t happen all of a sudden. Yes we´ve been sick from drinking unsafe tapwater in Holland, but one should know that my own country started a war against us long before corona. I was always a single mother and our life seemed more to be like the ´i am number four movie´and i asked myself ´is this really happening??´Racism is deeply rooted in Holland but what was happening here goes a lot deeper. While i was busy helping refugees the Netherlands made me a refugee myself, hundreds of times. They hunted us down for many many years. They locked up my daughter for about 2 years and me for 5 years and took my phone for 2,5 years. It became clear to me that Holland doesn´t like women and they have zero respect for single mothers and their children. For this reason i´m not performing in Holland anymore, Netherworld is responsible for the death of my daughter and they should leave me alone. They who did us wrong will get what they deserve, Heaven will decide.

Tanisha and me were not allowed to live in peace together and they who did all that should be ashamed for eternity. Holland doesn´t deserve to be entertained, so i focus on other countries to perform.

Holland is ungrateful for everything i did. Instead of saying hey thanks Sharmila for performing for free everytime and for working in childrenshomes, womenshelters and with refugees for decades they gave me the killshot in 2014, 2015 and 2016.

Besides violating our humanrights and womenrights, Holland violated IVESCR violation of our economic social and cultural rights 2012 - 2021. I was not allowed to say that i´m an artist for 5 years. They caused me a stroke in 2014 because i said so and i still have injuries from their attacks on my person.

The cities Rotterdam and Vlaardingen are involved.

MW: Let’s talk about “All I Want,” it’s got thousands of plays. What was the inspiration behind that song?

Sharmila: i wanted to create a danceable popsong for a wider audience for people with all types of backgrounds and it´s always good to be believe in love.

MW: Can you describe your creative process?

Sharmila: Lyrics often pop up in my mind along with a melody.

MW: What about major influences? I hear a lot of dance music and hip-hop, but there also seems to be some other flavors in there.

Sharmila: In my childhood i listened a lot to 80s and 90s music, i write songs from pop, r&b, dance to hiphop. my 2nd upcoming album has a new sound.

MW: What about live performances?

With my daughter Tanisha i wanted to travel the world. She always deserved the best as the Avion princess angel that she was. Nomatter what the forces of darkness did to us, i continue music and will perform again. As i mentioned before if something happens to me i´m murdered just like my daughter by the Dutch mafia.

To my fans i just would like to say thank you for listening to my music and supporting me in this difficult time. Never stop questioning, also investigate silent weapons for quiet wars. Be true to yourself, stick to your morals and values and raise your frequency.

I´m performing when there´s a no vaccin policy, because i believe all vaccins are murder. The human body especially the woman body is something sacred and should be treated as such.

Sharmila:

MW: Where can people find out more about you?

Sharmila:

i believe my name Sharmila was named after the Anshar. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anshar

https://soundcloud.com/sharmila

https://www.bandsintown.com/a/7916032-sharmila

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkJh1PklAyc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lQ0W9aqgNWc

https://getfunded.nl/campagne/17882-tanisha-sharmila

https://muziquemagazine.com/interview-with-netherlands-based-pop-artist-sharmila/

Holland is still violating my economic, social and artistic rights so maybe you can find me soon on kickstarter or indiegogo.

 

Tags: Sharmila, Tanisha, angel, racism, popstar, singer songwriter, dutch aryan race, i am number four, the darkest minds, corona, crown