Marshall Oakman "At The Boiling Point"

 From the opening country-blues-inspired piano riffs of Marshall Oakman's "At The Boiling Point," we're very aware that this song is going to have some roots-elements. While there are classic rock qualities and even some hints of glam in this track (think Jean Genie from David Bowie) the vocal mood is very modern. The song is a wonderfully produced amalgamation of piano, guitars, and drums without the frills and unnecessary synths so common in much of today's music (my own music included).

 

Marshall Oakman · AT THE BOILING POINT

    

It seems as though Oakman (who is the pianist and singer on "At The Boiling Point") has had a long and successful career primarily on the East Coast of the US. This is probably why he is a new artist to me out here in Oregon. But his performance buddies boast some of the most important people in the past 30 years. This is evidenced by his use of legendary NY musicians Kasim Sultan playing bass, Liberty Devitto on Drums, and Paul Pesco holding down the guitars. 

Lazarus Benson "Monster"

Oh, the red flags in dating during the treacherous times of 2021 - where damaged people try to couple over swipes and hope that past trauma won't interfere with yet another attempt at happiness. This sentiment is more than present in Lazarus Benson's new track "Monster." I have to say, I find this song incredibly timely - I can't say how many "warning signs" videos I've seen on YouTube, when discussions about wild hair/piercings/tattoos can all be used as a marker for someone who is, quite simply, "hurting" - and very likely to hurt others. 

The song itself is quite enjoyable; it's expertly produced and Benson's voice is very pleasing/contemporary. Speaking of contemporary, "Monster," seems to occupy that grey space between singing and rapping - a kind of melodic flow, if you will. I also appreciate the fact that there is a poetic depth to the lyrics, especially "cause I wanted you, not the monster you hide," as if to say that we are not necessarily our actions - and there is a path to redemption for all of our troubled souls. Oh yeah, the artwork for the single is pretty cool with its Frankenstein homage. 

Tony Lit "Lapdance"

So, I remember decades ago, I was reading an interview with Chuck D (of Public Enemy fame); in his responses, he noted that hip-hop faces the same innovation that Jazz went through in the late 50's and 60's where the innovators we taking chances that older musicians didn't recognize as part of the genre. Flash forward to this last few years with the introduction of more stream-of-consciousness writing plus the almost ubiquitous inclusion of reggae and we have a mature and dynamic art form that many shows a thriving ecosystem of creative types. 

Enter Tony Lit, with his new track "Lap Dance," a fast-paced flow where the beat production is top-notch. Tony's voice is animated and clear with sharp rhymes. For my money, this is a club-track all the way (if only the clubs were open - but alas).  The accompanying music video seems to have more than a bit in the way of video game inspiration and is great to watch for anyone who's been enjoying gaming during the shutdown. It is important to note, that the subject matter of the song and the existence of "extra-magical-no-no-words" means that this song is for mature audiences. But, if you're a fan of contemporary hip hop (as I am) this is a track for you. 

Nouhi's Nomad "Number 4"

 As a long-time fan of Iranian culture (I have found Zoroastrian writings to be a constant source of inspiration), I became very curious about Nouhi's Nomad (an Iranian American band) - a multi-instrumental genre band. In their current song and music video "Number 4" they show their fun surf-rock side in a laid back and upbeat song.  The music video evokes summer days with friends and family. Not to say that the musicianship isn't first-rate - it's nice to hear wonderful bass lines and slick guitar riffs.  

Especially in a time where people are rediscovering what it means to live a fulfilled life - I'm very satisfied to see a music video packed with scenes of comradery. Now that winter is over, people are more than anxious to be outside and enjoying the things that all of us took for granted just a year ago. I have to say that Nouhi's Nomad is a new act on my radar but I'll be checking out their stuff whenever I'm in the mood for something a bit happier and optimist. 

Mauri Dark "Love Will Prevail"

Oftentimes, we are bogged down through art and music, a sense that doom is inevitable. This is quite the case in our modern times overcast with Covid19, racial division, and labor unrest. Mauri Dark's new tune "Love Will Prevail" is a heartfelt ballad that is quite possibly the most honest and wonderful sentiment of a life well-lived. It seems to me that this artist was happy to dispense with sentiment shrowded in metaphor and simile - just getting to the point that if we are good to each other and those we care for, the world would be a better place. 

The accompanying music video of a man and beautiful child planting a white ballon is rife with symbolism though. The forest scenery is a welcome sight to those of us both in and out of cities. More than anything, I'm impressed with the bare-bones approach of a song sung from the heart. A song that harkens to something more optimistic - that a better future is not only possible but destined. I have a feeling that if more people listened to tracks like this, that future would be a little closer. 

The Little Wretches "All of My Friends"

 Longtime Pittsburgh fixture, The Little Wretches released "All of My Friends" in February of 2021. The band is billed as folk/punk which is an apt description of their sound. The chief performer and songwriter is Robert Wagner, who has a prolific library of albums and songs. This tune is upbeat and optimistic in tone - major guitar chords and a nicely paced backbeat - yet the lyrics portray a slightly more cynical view of the modern world. Essentially, saying "all of my friends are misfits in some way." 

The music video is fun and visually engaging. It's also super nice to have the lyrics on screen. Overall, I'm glad that this band hasn't fizzled out the way so many in the game for decades have. I'm heartened to see that, what was so long only a young man's game (popular music) has matured with the pioneers who made it what it is. The Little Wretches have released their latest album "Undesirables and Anarchists" which contains "All of My Friends." 

John Vento "New Mexico Way"

 With the current political climate boiling - cities in turmoil, social division, violence uptick/riots - Covid... It's almost too much to name...I think we've all just wanted to escape and seek out a simpler and more peaceful existence. This is certainly the sentiment I get from John Vento's new track "New Mexico Way." Like others on this list, it's a tune that thrives on simplicity. The song is a straightforward upbeat rock number that does more than a nod to the indie bands of the '80s. Accompanying the song is a rather sweet music video about a man seemingly escaping his mundane life and heading out to the wilderness. 

From the description of "New Mexico Way:" "It doesn't happen very often, but sometimes good songs just come together in short order. This track, from John Vento's 'Brick By Brick' project is an example of such magic." And the teacher in me always wants to say "Now wait a minute, the quality of what you produce is directly proportional to the time and effort you put into it!" But the truth is, that with experience and the refining of one's craft, this process is expedited - it doesn't mean that Vento doesn't work hard, he obviously does, but I love the example of a well put together tune, allowed to simply shine in its instrumentation and vocals - and that's what you get from this song. 

Izzie's Caravan "Return to Midway"

 Izzie's Caravan is back here in the spotlight at CMT. This time with their new tune "Return to Midway," a rock-centered medium tempo thing that harkens back to at least a few prog-rock roots.  I gotta say, that this new tune's lyric structure is very original. Outside of the chorus (which is quite a bit more chanty), the verses take on a sort-of Gregorian-chant-like structure, where the melody is first and foremost, and the lyrics just kind of syllabically fall where they will. On first listen, this method of songwriting creates quite a sense of anticipation. 

The instrumentation is very appealing to me as well. The organ plus percussion again gives it a nostalgic feeling that hints at the late '60s and early '70s. The guitar parts are a lot of fun too - it's almost like what Lenny Kravitz might have been, had he not been so pretentious - just a side note there. As I recommended them before, so I can recommend them again - Izzie's Caravan is well worth the listen. 

John McDonough "Nowhere Else to Run"

I think it's an apt analogy to compare songwriting to food preparation. Sometimes it's an ordeal - layers upon layers of ingredients leading to a climax of production for the senses. Sometimes, if you have great ingredients and the right tools, simplicity is the best option. Think of a great cut of meat grilled and minimally seasoned, this is the case with John McDonough's new release "Nowhere Else to Run." The lyrics descriptive and heartfelt performed equally passionately by McDonough sung over acoustic guitar and basic instrumentation. 

John's Texas roots shine through in his style - though the song was inspired by a trip to Germany (which is where I believe the music video is shot - might have to fact-check on that one). Perhaps the most interesting thing in McDonough's past/credentials is that he used to be a psychotherapist. Of course, those of us who understand the healing power of beautiful and reflective music wouldn't be surprised by this. It is a cool fact, nonetheless. 

The Impersonators "Scarlet Hell"

 When I was reading about the Finnish rock band: The Impersonators, I had seen that early REM was a driving influence, and I thought to myself "oh, I gotta hear this" (REM was an obsession for me as a late teenager in the 1990's). Well, they don't disappoint - they have a pretty slick music video for their new song "Scarlet Hell." It's a very mature track musicianship-wise - a beautiful arrangement of rock, organ, brass, some great vocals to boot.

Now, of course, we should note that the music video has its college-movie-edge to it. But for a band channeling early indie-music/college-dorm-radio, I actually find this quite moving. I am also increasingly fascinated by non-English-speaking countries increasingly producing rock acts that not only successfully pull off English language songs - but seem to thrive off of it. I think this phenomenon is cause for British and American acts alike to step up their game. 

The Impersonators can be found at their FB page here. 

 

HeIsTheArtist "If I Were a Virgin Again"

 I've been pretty open (in my other media) about having a religious conversion story. The voice of God was something that I just couldn't ignore or explain away any longer. It seems I'm not the only one - HeIsTheArtist is a Christian singer and songwriter from Central Islip, NY. He came to Christian music after hearing an inspiring sermon by TD Jakes and never looked back. He's out with a new song titled "If I Were a Virgin Again" - quite the provocative thought. Let's listen below:

HeIsTheArtist has a very interesting style - it's a beautiful beat, complete with pitched-up vocals as part of the accompaniment. His vocal style is more confusing though; something of a meandering stream-of-consciousness (and see, this is where I'm worried that my ears are too old - I also don't understand the mumble-rap phenomenon). From a mixing standpoint, the vocals are a little too "out in front" for my taste but the sentiment of the song and the heartfelt way it's performed is meritable. I have a feeling that HeIsTheArtist is someone that I'll probably have to come back to. 

Miss Freddye "Something to Believe In"

 Miss Freddye is a Pittsburgh-based blues singer who's gospel roots are obvious in her new song "Something to Believe In" - a heartwarming ballad full of optimism in a troubled world. It's a love-song to be sure, but it reminds me of the old Persian poets who blurred the lines between human-love and love for God.  The lyrics are uplifting and honest - speaking of struggle but the "you" in the song is the refuge and port in the storm. 

Freddye's voice is gorgeous - deep and profound but light where the mood calls for it. The track feels a little bit like the Babyface slow songs of the '90s (I mean this as a compliment) but with a more rock edge with that electric guitar solo that comes in before the final chorus. One can even, at the end of the song - make out the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King's "I have a dream speech" in the background of the outro. A very nice touch. 

Please visit Miss Freddye's FB page here.

Ed Roman "Tomorrow is Today"

 Long time favorite of CMT, Ed Roman is out with a new song titled "Tomorrow is Today" a very rock-anthem-esque track that frames Roman's growly voice perfectly. Fans of Ed will appreciate this slight departure into a heavier realm. This arrangement features slap-bass, distorted guitars, and even a synthesizer. It's a catchy tune especially in the bridge which shows Roman for what he does best, sing. 

Don't think for a second that just because "Tomorrow is Today" has a slightly brighter studio-sheen than other songs reviewed on this blog, that Ed's lyrics are any less biting than his previous work. "Aint no use believin' in what I believe; believe yourself" carries a Buddhist quality to it - kind of like a Bluesy/Rock way of saying "be ye lamps unto yourself."  All in all, he continues to be an artist, evolving, and very worth the search in YouTube. 

Artist: Simon Ocean

 It's always an adventure when people recommend new music to me, and as a pop-music producer myself it's fantastic to see what younger artists are creating. Enter Simon Ocean, an artist from Miami, Florida - but seemingly always on the move. He's a gifted songwriter who's written for some pretty pedigreed folks. His Spotify boasts a rather large following and his first song that shows up on that page "My Enemy, My Love" is an energetic, dance-centered pop song that should play well at the gym and the club equally well. 

I hear there are new works in the works and it will be interesting to see what new ground this world-traveler will cover (fun side note - he also sings in Spanish.) With three stellar albums in the can already, I'm curious what more he has to say. Simon Ocean's music can be found through his Spotify page, as well as his website. 

INADRM "Me-Mow's Introduction To An Infinite Existence"

As an Arizonan myself, it's absolutely wonderful to see that the musical creativity of my old stomping ground is still producing great music. Electronic Artist INADRM's new music video/track "Me-Mow's Introduction To An Infinite Existence" is an interesting venture into repurposed media. From a musical standpoint - it's a lovely synthetic soundscape full of classic leads and arpeggios, sweeping vocals, and bass-drums. As the title suggests, I'm assuming it's the introduction to a larger work. 

A brief look at the artist's website shows a slew of self-contained instrumental videos featuring modern and classic synthesizers as well as acoustic/electric guitars. I was personally very moved by his video titled "Remembering Friends" - which hits very close to those of us isolated during this period of isolation. 

INADRM's website can be accessed here.

Jeremy Parsons "Something Other Than You Are"

 Once in a while, I like to dig a little deeper into an artist after my initial discovery of one song - I was very pleased to stumble across this gem by Jeremy Parsons, who you might recall from my post of his song "One of a Kind." 

"Something Other Than You Are" seems right in line with his sense of poetic verse. This song's instrumentation is quite a bit more consistent all the way through which gives a sort of jam-like quality; it's the perfect backdrop for Parsons's sweet baritone. The song imagines the various incarnations a person might become if they were, well, not a person. It's an upbeat ballad that has a somewhat sentimental feel to it. I could envision (and I mean this as a compliment) this track being played to children as part of a music singing curriculum. And this is a market that is far underappreciated by creators - that there can be wholesome music for families, schools, and churches. 

FaB "Dancing Partner"

 UK-based FaB (Fitzsimon and Brogan) is a pop/rock duo with a new track "Dancing Partner" and it is a much-needed tonic for those of us who really need an injection of punk-rock style recordings a-la the 1980's indie scene. The distorted opening guitars and poppy drums show the strength of a band that doesn't need the hyper-produced sheen that dominates much of popular music these days. What's cool about this style of music-making, is that it lets the natural ability of the musicians come through completely uninterrupted. The harmonies, the singing itself, and the amazing drumming (done by none other than Elvis Costello's drummer, Pete Thomas) are more than enough to remind us that great songs come from great artists. 

"Dancing Partner" is the third single off their album "This Wicked Pantomime" - I think any fans of Joan Jett or The Ting Tings would feel right at home listening to this duo. 

Izzie's Caravan "Blow the Lid"

 We've got a good thing going here on Current Music Thoughts with a string of great country and blues songs, so let's keep that going. Izzie's Caravan has a new video out (as of March 25 of 2021) called "Blow the Lid" - it's an attack of low-fi goodness, full of working-class overtones in the lyrics. While its blues roots are obvious, there's more than enough instrumental passion that rock and metal fans ought to really enjoy this one. To me, Izzie's Caravan would be perfectly at home in a playlist that includes Motorhead, as well as Jimi Hendrix. 

The track really thrives off the instrumental ability of the band, not to say the vocals aren't powerful, they are - but those guitar licks are the real front line of "Blow the Lid." I looked through their YT lineup of videos and was pleased to find "Zephyrs," a female-fronted tune that ought to please an even wider audience looking for a nostalgic ballad. This is a band that is more than worth the listening time. 

Richard Lynch "Rodeo Town"

 Originally I hail from the South West, and later transplanted to the rural Pacific Northwest. So, there's a special place in my heart for small-town country songs that praise the culture around which I've grown up. "Rodeo Town" is a country love song replete with masculine swoonings around a beautiful dark-haired girl. I've gotta say, I love the saloon-style piano that kicks in around the 1:25 mark - but as a pianist myself, I'm a little biased. 

Lynch is an accomplished singer - frankly, I'm not sure why he isn't more famous than he is. To me, his skills as a vocalist could match Garth Brooks or George Strait. The song itself is fun, well played, and all-around enjoyable. 

Jeremy Parsons "One of a Kind"

 "One of a Kind" is a heartfelt country/folk tune by artist Jeremy Parsons. For the most part, it's a straightforward guitar/voice arrangement (that is until larger instrumentation of electric guitar/drums/piano comes in about the halfway point - for the bridge) - the song really thrives on its simplicity which allows its love-theme to shine through. Parsons embraces a subtle twang that classic country lovers will immediately appreciate. 

I have to say, as a lyricist myself, I'm somewhat envious of the way he wraps the refrain "one of a kind" in a perfect-verse list. Like, we all know it's coming but he takes just enough time to get there, and that, from a poetic standpoint, is very satisfying. 

You can visit Jeremy's website here

Bill Abernathy "More Than Meets the Eye"

It's tough to categorize Abernathy's latest single: part blues, part classic rock, part country, but all passion. It seems like he's tapping into the boiling temperature of American culture, where a divided people fight for a point of view at the expense of all others. The opening refrain really says it all "There's more to this than meets the eye, decisions based on bias lies" definitely speak to a society thirsting for truth. The gritty guitars and thundering toms played violently do a great job of focusing the energy of the track. 

View below: Bill Abernathy's video for "More Than Meets the EYE"