HOLOGRAM BOY™ FEAT. MISS VIRTUALITY - "SINAPSI ATTIVE"

Well CMT readers, if I do nothing else on this blog, I'm pretty sure I bring you things you might not ever see otherwise. Back story: OK, everyone here knows I'm a HUGE Italian synth fan - from Crumar to Siel and so on - and truth be told, Italy has never really gotten the recognition it deserves as a cultural hub for electronic music. Now, Ho studiato Italiano al'universita, e parlo un poco di Italiano (I really should have used Google translate for that but *whatevs*) still, the lyrics to "Sinapsi Attive" went a little too quickly for me to catch. 

Oh yeah, did I mention that we're talking about Hologram Boy's new thumping track "Sinapsi Attive?" This thing's bass hits hard and it's super catchy, very appropriate for late-night club movements. But maybe more than the catchy dance number, is the music video featuring the composer in increasingly amusing settings framed by a skimpy-bikini-clad beauty (can't imagine the guys will be disappointed here). Seriously folks, give it a spin. 

SUAVE_UK "MERRY DRILLMASS"

I think the global lockdowns have accelerated the degrees of oddities coming out of the internet.  It seems that postmodernism has taken on a completely new meaning where not only is every form of expression viable - but more so, the staggering reservoir of content that surprises me is endless. How does the old addage go? Once I think I've seen everything...

Suave UK, who we've covered a few times on this blog, is out with a new video titled: "Merry Drillmass." The song itself is a techno/hip-hop reworking of its parody namesake "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," but done repeatedly. The music video is whimsical (including Santa in an alley doing the "Kid n' Play" dance interspliced with cooking videos of a holiday turkey), which leads me to believe Mr. Suave is not taking himself too seriously on this - but one never knows about today's celebrities. 

Terry Blade "Unmastered - The Demo Sessions." EP

This week I was passed an advanced copy of singer/songwriter: Terry Blade's upcoming EP titled "Unmastered - The Demo Sessions," a heartfelt and meditative five-track album that's a little tricky to pin-down genre-wise (in the best way). Blade actually makes a point of this in his bio, stating that "his work is grounded in his experience as a black queer artist."

Songs like "Not Right Now" and "Ms. Understood" show us an intimate guitar-oriented ballad type of mood, whereas "Rude" has a quirky dance-music quality that seems to have a little hint of musical theater. "Stone" is a rhythm-n-bluesy slow jam, and "untangled" sounds like Blades take on indie-rock. Though the songs show great variety in style, the whole work is tied together by Terry Blade's luscious baritone voice.

"Unmastered - The Demo Sessions," as the title might imply, has a decidedly lo-fi quality to it. This style of recording/songwriting makes for a very familiar sound - like Terry is your friend and he's showing you his newest work, and in a world of perfect pitch-corrected, loop-based, sterility, this is a welcome attitude. I think more than anything, what we long for in our modern age is a sense of individuality from our artists and Terry Blade has individuality for days. 

Find more about Terry Blade, and listen to his music here. 

The Undecideds "Even the Losers" (Tom Petty Cover)

It was last week I was in rehearsal with a new Jazz ensemble and we got onto the subject of Billie Eilish and the role her brother has played in her music/success. I was remarking (being the only musician in my family) how nice it would have been to have a sister that sings/co-writes... etc. It was then that I remembered my two newest favorite brother and sister duo: "The Undecideds." I was equally happy to be alerted to their video, a cover of Tom Petty's "Even the Losers."

Of course, I could rehash how talented these "kids" are for their age, yadda yadda. But I think I'm more impressed with the fact that these two seem to have internalized rock music that is older than they are - which means that "the sound of a generation" is taking on a whole new meaning. If Tom Petty is still relevant 40 or so years after his heyday, in a time of infinite music to consume, I think it's safe to say that young pioneers understand objective quality in music maybe more than any other generation. 

Oh, and BTW, they also have great original tunes also. 

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

The Undecideds "Oldest Story in the World"

Well, CMT readers, I've said it before and I'll say it again: if social media has had one positive effect on the world, it's proven to us that there is a lot of young talent out there. I was introduced to the band: The Undecideds, an indie-rock female-fronted ensemble - and if it were not for their stylish music video showing their baby-faces, I would have assumed these musicians were much more seasoned. Their sound is rather sophisticated with relatable and poetic lyrics. The lead singer is cute-as-a-button, that is, if buttons could sing - and the gent (her brother) holds his own as well. "Oldest Story in the World" is a catchy tune and the video is entertaining and definitely worth the time.

 

Pernille Wensel "Burn"

A maxim that I've come to accept in the world is that: there are a lot of really talented young people who are not getting the attention they deserve. Pernille Wensel is one such gifted singer/songwriter, and the slick RnB/Pop style of her new track "Burn" is well worth your time. Wensel displays a range that is at the very least, impressive, the beat is extremely catchy with thumping drums full of breaks and dropouts which always keeps us guessing. Finally, the lyrics are beautifully aspirational, which is refreshing. So, two thumbs up go to this track, which you can hear on Spotify. 

The ATif "Alien Inn"

Well here's something exciting - an energetic rocking song with an equally exciting music video that features aliens, space, and spaceships... these are my love languages. The ATif, which seems to be the project of one musician (much like NIN and "bands" of the like) has an extensive discography on their website, is out with a new track "Alien Inn." According to the notes on the YT video, the song seems to be inspired by an actual UFO encounter (we really gotta get this guy in for an interview). 

It's a fast-paced number that features all the trappings of rock along with horns and other instrumental augments. The vocals are rapid-fire abstract poetry like "It don't mean one thing - just a little fun thing Won't you claim, you've figured it at all..." The ATif has certainly stumbled upon a genuineness that lands them in the novel category, which is much needed in today's musical landscape. 

Yona Marie "Take Me to the Moon"

I remember coming into adulthood in the late ''90s/early 2000's - not only did I grow up on pop RnB and Hip-Hop, but I also noticed the changing roles of women in society. If you're ever curious, you could look at the Barbie commercials with the slogan "it's a great time to be a girl." So when I stumbled across Yona Marie's track "Take Me to the Moon," and the description reads: "[a young woman] considers multiple devious approaches that will increase her net worth at the expense of the gentleman she's courting... Combining familiar 90s and early 2000s R&B vibes with sassy and fast-paced vocals" I was quickly intrigued. 

The song is super catchy, with a pulsating triplet feel and gritty quality. Yona's voice is alluring and has a sexy quality that I'm sure will play as well to everyone as it does to me. I enjoy the concept of the lyrics which go pretty deep, but it's a song that would play just as well as a dance-track. So, with a great low end, and a theme that is easily relatable, I imagine Ms. Marie doing quite well with this one. 

You can hear "Take Me to the Moon" on all the major places for music online. 

DECEMBER FADES "Sunrise"

Well, here's one that I really enjoyed, and it couldn't have come at a better time either - often I hear a lot of music while I'm doing this blog - and I've gotten many requests for reviews where I say to the artist: "you're obviously talented, you actually sound great... but there's nothing unique about your music..." 

Not at all the case with December Fades and the new single "Sunrise" (which is loveliness wrapped in a blanket). The creeping synth, the lo-fi drums, and the sweet, sweet, vocals are all pleasing. The biggest thing I like about this track though is that after one listen, I genuinely felt like I knew this guy singing - it was that intimate, which is pretty rare these days. So, Oct 9 is the release date for this song, don't miss it! In the meantime, you can check out his previous SC tracks here.

Pflames "High Anxiety"

I saw a meme the other day that read "You know who's going through a lot right now? ...Literally everyone, so be kind." And while I'm not one to give into social-media wisdom, it seems as though in the one case, at least, we ought to pay heed. So, it's no surprise that I caught wind of Rap/Hip-Hop artist Pflames's new track titled "High Anxiety." 

Lyrically, he captures the general mood of our society, right from the getgo where he confesses to "teeter-tottering on the edge." He then goes on to discuss subjects such as therapy and the death of his mother in a way that flows like a stream of consciousness. The beat has a funky quality complete with slap-bass, electric piano, and snappy snares, all of which appeals to my Gen-X ears. 

Overall Pflames is deep - his lyrics are thoughtful and the beat is super catchy with a lot of attention to detail. For fans of Baba, Living Legends, Del, or Prince Paul, I would give this track a hearty endorsement. 

Dixon Rose "Trilogy"

Most of you will remember Dixon Rose from a few months ago with his album titled "To The Moon and Back.".It was an outstanding record that took us from heartfelt ballad to upbeat headbanging. Mr. Rose is nothing if not consistent with his output - he's released a new album titled "Trilogy," an ambitious 19 track work that will make you believe that albums are still worthwhile. 

From the getgo, Dixon Rose meets us with the nostalgic ballad "The Day You Saved Me" an exquisitely crafted song with some of the best backup vocal parts I've heard in a long time. Sonically, it's a real treat of a track with synth strings and moody guitars all at a slow hypnotic pace.

For energy, we could listen to "Rise and Grind" which gives us a scratch to that screaming itch maybe you've developed. Just after you've enjoyed the aggression, we start to hear a rap verse come in, and I was listening and thinking "you know what, this really works," and to me, it's just proof that genre ought not to be a prison. There is a similar attitude to the fourth track "What Hurts The Most," at least instrumentally - this cover from Rascal Flatts rocks a lot more than the original. 

Track three is "Irreplaceable" - a very pop-sensitive song that offers a nice detour from the other music we've been hearing. It's upbeat and fun but rather optimistic at the same time. Something about this kind of reminds me of the Japanese rock band "Mr. Children," but maybe that's just the nostalgia kicking in. 

Next up, "That 50's Life" is truly a standout song in the album with its "Magic Changes" chord progression. I know it's a sonic throwback to early rock n' roll but there is quite a country charm going on here - of course, it might be because rock and country share so many roots, but from my standpoint, Dixon's given us something special here. 

In a perfect world I would give you the lowdown on every song in "Trilogy," but at 19 songs deep that makes you read this late into the night... Normally I would stick to the highlights but the truth is that this album is so varied from song to song that really the whole listening experience is such a journey. One such case in point is track 6 with a guest female vocalist on "Wherever You Go" and the song's very contemporary attitude. 

With the following tracks "Human," Gave it Away," and "Beside You" we return to male-fronted rock anthems with all the songcraft of the rest of "Trilogy," that being beautiful harmonies, terraced guitar energy, lovely chord progressions, and heartfelt lyrics. 

Another cover, track 10, features the song "This is Me" from "The Greatest Showman" soundtrack. Here, Dixon Rose takes a very orchestral approach to the guitar replacing the original instrumentation with shimmering distortion and a very daring attitude as the song takes on dramatic new meaning being sung by a male vocalist. 

There are more standout tracks on the album including "This City," "Bleeding Colors" and "Without Me." But I couldn't wrap up this review without mentioning how "Trilogy" ends in largely instrumental electronic pieces which contrast dramatically from the rest of the album. "Dance," "Dance Sequel," and "Dirty Synth" are all lovely electronic pieces, but were not for the variety present in the rest of the album would probably sound rather out of place, but because the diversity had been corroborated so well earlier on, our ears have been tempered a little for this much of a departure. 

Like I said in the intro, "Trilogy" is ambitious at its heart, and it pulls off a dynamic listening experience led by an obviously passionate and creative individual - It's obvious that Dixon Rose pays a lot of attention to detail and that his tastes are just as widespread as his albums, which we can hope for more of in the future. 

Shelter Red "A Visual Nerve"

Lately, I've enjoyed seeing the proliferation of instrumental groups playing rock. From Polyphia to mainstays like Dream Theater - it's nice to know that guitars, drums, and bass have a lot to offer sonically. So it was exciting to see Shelter Red's new music video for "A Visual Nerve." 

I really like the lo-fi way of doing the video with cosmic imagery but supplemented with grainy pictures gives me a very nostalgic feel. The music itself is very virtuosic and has elements of prog and math rock - but it's not some overly brainy technical jam, though, these guys are clearly passionate players and masters of their instruments, and the effected climax at the end proves that. 

Electric85 "Tomorrow's Life"

One thing I've noticed while keeping this blog, and I've said it before, ...there is A LOT of talent out creating art. I always should have added, however; that talent alone does not necessarily make for worthwhile music. Something that is sorely lacking in modern independent music, is originality. That's why I was very happy to stumble across Electric85 with their new tune "Tomorrow's Life." 

There is a beautiful psychedelic flavor to their sound with deeply reverbed guitars, some jazz-inspired soloing, dreamy vocals, and pulsating drums. Lyrically, there is a lot to consider as well in that the song wrestles with concepts like time and how we define ourselves. Overall it's nice to hear something that doesn't sound like anything else being played lately - and still has artistic merit. You can check out Electric85's website here. 

Patrick Noel Russ "Rise Up" EP

Alt-Country rocker and all-around busy guy Patrick Noel Russ is out with an energetic and melodious EP titled "Rise Up." The four-track album is laden with the professionalism and expert songcraft we've come to expect from the frontman of The Lucky Sevens (a successful CA Americana band, for the uninitiated). The release date is in only 2 days (Sept 25, 2021), so make sure to check out Patrick's website here. 

The EP begins with "I Can Take You" which has a lot of jam-band flavors; the pulsating rhythm guitar is a signature of the singer/songwriter genre and Mr. Russ gives us a two-fisted embrace of the style. Track number two is "Hero" which carries a bit of Calexico-esque vibe with lovely slide guitars and mild mariachi rhythms (it's a huge plus in my book). "Out Here" gives us a jaunt into a more folk soundscape, but the rasp of the vocals evoke a smoky dimly lit street outside a blues club, still it's an optimistic-sounding tune. Finally, we end with "All I Need to Be," a very anthem-like song that reminds us of resilience and strength. For fans of R.E.M., this last song is a welcome experience. 

"Rise Up" is expertly produced and the instrumental performances are first-rate. For his part, Patrick Noel Russ is a gifted singer and it would be hard to imagine any other vocalist performing these songs. I imagine most listeners will enjoy this newest contribution to our playlists as much as I did. 

Goyrd "Am I fake"

I'm always fascinated to see the multiple sides of artists after their first big success... It's like that scene in the film "Basquiat," one character says "you gotta keep doing the same shit, even if it's boring, or else people will hate you, which they will anyways." It's rather grim to be sure, but the point I'm making here is that it takes guts to sing from your heart, especially after people come to expect a certain style from you. 

Most people will remember Hip-Hop/Rap artist Goyrd from his recent breakout song "Gucci Coochie" (not to be confused with the Die Antwoord song of the same name) which was for all intents and purposes, a club-banger. Luckily though, in his most recent track "Am I Fake" we see a more thoughtful and reflective style - it's no less catchy than his previous hit, but this song takes a jazzier and more artistic flavor. It's nice to see artists like Goyrd can exist in multiple spheres, being successful in each. 

Listen to "Am I Fake" here. 

Suave Toronto "21"

Hip-Hop/Rap artist Suave Toronto is out with a new album titled "21," an ambitious 13 track jam. The songs run the gambit between catchy-sample-laden tunes such as "Baby Tron Flow," to profound and reflective tracks like "They Don't Love Me."  Frankly, as far as I'm concerned, it's nice to see an actual album (as opposed to a single) come out in the Rap community. Expertly mixed and produced, "21" is an adventure in sound - you'll be better off for checking this out. 

AJ Ongenae "Who I Used to Be"

As humans, especially in the western world, we make sacrifices in coupling - it's an essential part of getting along; we change our behavior in order to accommodate the other because having a partner is more important than said behaviors. So, it stands to reason that a relationship's end can be a catalyst for self-rediscovery

AJ Ongenae's new single "Who I Used to Be" from his sophomore album "Midnight Rain" is a heartfelt tune about the sadness and self-examination when love leaves.  A track that fits nicely in the singer/songwriter genre and a little bit of country flair plus catchy vocal melodies makes for a great experience. Mr. Ongenae's lyrics and sentiment are something we've all been through, so I'm guessing there is universal appeal here. 

 

NatStar "BBL"

The Hip-Hop self-confidence espoused in the Rockafella days was certainly revolutionary at a time of Grunge and superficial pop. Indeed, it seems as though the only movements for individual pride/self-confidence was coming from the Rap world and PBS kids' songs. There is also the embracing of raw sexuality which has always been a staple in this genre. 

NatStar continues this tradition in his newest music video for "BBL." where we see him accompanied by beautiful women (bearing much,) as well as lavish surroundings and food. The song is snappy and memorable - and the beat's instrumentation is interesting as a contrast to the music video (sounds somewhat like a lo-fi cheap toy sample, which is actually really cool). There's not a whole lot not to like. 

Mad Panda "Keeps Me Trying"

Mad Panda's newest track titled "Keeps Me Trying" (click the link for their Spotify page) occupies that gray space between ambient guitar and dreamy pop. With the haze of heavily reverbed vocals and hypnotic guitar chords, there's a hint of Velvet Underground (with way better vocals, though) going on here. It's a genuinely lovely sound that these chaps have worked up. 

"Keeps Me Trying" can be found on their 10th studio album comically titled "Not My Circus Not My Monkeys," which is pretty impressive in and of itself. Additionally, their audience might want to keep in their thriving teemill shop here. 

Isabel and The Whispers "Josefina"

I think that if we look at the simplistic harmonic structures, poeticism, and signability of modern music, we could call it a new phase of folk music (somewhat akin to what was happening during the '60s, '40s, and '20s respectively in the US - where college students donned guitars or simple instrumentation and sang from the deepest recesses of their hearts). We have a modern analog to such troubadours in the band Isabel and The Whispers" with their new release "Josefina." 

The band is composed of the singer/songwriter/pianist/poetess Isabel Marcheselli, drummer Alec Menge, and guitarist Octavio Pardon. "Josefina" is a heartfelt and lovely tune with simple instrumentation that allows Marcheselli to do what she does best - sing her poetry. If you're a fan of  Callers, Transister, or Rosewater Elizabeth, then you should definitely check out Isabel and the Whispers. 

Céline Schmink feat. Wannybabyy "Summer Cleopatra"

In this time of quarantine it's very easy to miss the simpler things in life we all took for granted. Imagine spending time on a warm beach, feeling the breeze, drinking a beer while happy young people all around are enjoying life (it seems like a distant memory at this point). This is the "big mood" of  SACEM member and singer/songwriter Celine Schmink's newest single "Summer Cleopatra."

The song itself has a bit of a Berlin vibe going on (think "Metro" slowed down and sexy) with plenty of attitude.  There is a short rap section towards the end by Wannybabby who holds up his part of the song nicely. The beat is very ambient and Schmink's voice is light and flirty, which is always a plus to these male ears. Speaking of things that men appreciate, the video is replete with eye-candy of beautiful women on the beach, so, she's not going to get any complaints from me on that front. 

"Summer Cleopatra" is pleasant and sexy - it could definitely go in your club-mix and fit perfectly amongst other chillwave and ambio artists. Celine Schmink can be found through her iTunes page here.

Ratinoff "Let it Out" Album

So, we've had our eye on Ratinoff (born Joaquin Torres) for a while now. A former pop singer in his youth, and YouTube viral sensation with that genre of music. Later he changed his name, style, and approach and has now embarked on a remarkably ambitious LP titled "Let it Out."  Set to release Sept 17 (2021) I was lucky enough to get an advanced copy, and I gotta say, there is a lot going on here - from the somewhat rockabilly sentiment, to punk, and even some darker synthpop appearing, the record is an experience to enjoy. 

A more substantial review would be necessary to really delve into all the nooks and crannies of "Let it Out," but for this writeup, I'd like to focus on a couple of the tracks that have been in rotation on my sound system. "Light Me Up" is the second track on the album, an upbeat and driving song that packs a punch - featuring synthesizer beds and rock vocals that shout but are still very sensible.

Track five is the song "Take Me Away" and if I didn't know better I would assume this number is a beautifully blatant homage to both The Cure and The Smiths (probably the two most iconic bands of 80's British rock).. The rapid guitar strumming, slick bass lines, and forlorn love lyrics make for a nostalgic and blissful listening. 

The 9th song "Hot as Hell" lives up to its name. Drum machine and synth-bass pulses underneath Ratinoff's voice. There's a hint of early NIN tempered with Jim Morisson-Doors inspiration here which again, is something that I really love. Everything about this song and the album, in general, is deeply atmospheric and contains a passion deeply lacking from a lot of what we hear dominating commercial airplay these days. 

For more information on Ratinoff, you can visit his website here.

Artist Review - Briya Jordan

If there is one thing that is proved over and over again in this new age of communication - it's that there is a lot (and I mean A LOT) of talent out there. It seems like every week someone introduces me to a thriving, passionate, and deeply committed individual making music and hustling, deserving of attention, but lost in the quagmire of sensory overload that is modern media. With that in mind, let's take a look at the following music video. 

Briya Jordan is such a talent, a (beautiful) 22-year-old young woman with a song lineup that never disappoints. She's a lyricist and a songwriter - her vocal style is essentially melodic rap; it's like she has all the singing chops she needs but seems to favor speech rhythms as a platform for her often poetically profound lyrics (see the above "On My Own") Ms. Jordan is a strong female figure, but her strength is tempered with an attractive feminity allowing her to show a vulnerability rarely seen in the hip-hop world. 

Case in point, in "Prove It" we see Briya dressed down amidst broken cars singing about being independent, which is awesome, but seemingly open to the idea of seeing what's in the "Duffle Bag." There's a comedic element here, but its homage to gangster culture comes off as very real. 

Briya Jordan is available on just about every social media - she's got a thriving IG page here, as well as a YT channel (which I already subbed to, so you should too), and looking forward to anything else she puts out. 

Spanish Moss "Burlesque"

Rock and sex seem to have always had a deep link with each other... we could think back to the days of speakeasy clubs with scantily clad flapper girls and their alluring hip-focused dancing making for decades of Hollywood film adaptations. This attitude is captured wonderfully by the band Spanish Moss and their track "Burlesque" with an accompanying music video below. A groove, smokey vocals, a gorgeous hollow body guitar, and attractive girls dancing in lingerie make for an experience I imagine most of you will quite appreciate. 

Mowille "Ride N Roll"

I had the pleasure of sitting down with Nigerian/UK hip hop artist Mowille as part of the "Ensnaring the Muse" series and I have to say he's an interesting cat. Bringing genuine African vibes to an American style of music (rap/trap) fostered in England makes for a unique, but at the same time, worldly sound. To me, Mowille's music is very much a snapshot of 2021 - much in the same way that Parlement's music makes us think of the 1970s. In the interview, we discussed "Ride N Roll.". 

Of course, the listener gets to see the human side of the artists here. With a Spotify lineup that is doing extremely well, Mowille comes off as genuine and humble. For my part, I'm looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this guy. 

Mirko Pirozzi "Candy Almost Every Day"

There is something magical about the sound of synthesizers and heavily affected guitars accompanied by acoustic drums - I imagine that's why we saw the "prog" rock revolution of the 1970s. I remember being mesmerized by the sound of Yes, or later bands like Dream Theater, where rock, jazz, electronics, and classical compositional techniques could all come together in a stellar performance. 

It is in that spirit that I would like you to listen to Mirko Pirozzi, a composer, arranger, and performer out of Italy. His track "Candy Almost Every Day" is a hauntingly beautiful soundscape of beautiful instrumentation and powerful sounds. The guitar and synthesizer cascades play nicely against each other, while thundering drums keep the energy going. Additionally, there is such a sense of craftsmanship compositionally speaking; it's like anyone could listen to this piece and say "wow, this cat knows what he's doing." 

"Candy Almost Every Day" is part of the album "I am Not a Robot," and is available at BandCamp.

Phil Joseph "Babe You Are Mine"

Hello dear CMT readers - One of my most favorite parts of writing for this blog is to watch the development of musicians over time, and this post is no exception. Today, we have one of your favorite artists back with a new song. As of August 16th of this year, Phil Joseph (who is now a full-fledged platinum/gold artist... WOW, time flies) has released "Babe You Are Mine;" a wonderful lush reggae-esque track replete with horns and upbeat rhythms reminiscent of cool island evenings. Joseph has also cut a really lovely video to the track which you should watch below:

I remember being in my early 20's and totally loving on bands like the Cure ("Wild Mood Swings" days) for their use of horn accompaniments to otherwise pop/rock, especially on their track "The 13th." and Phil Joseph is continuing in that tradition with this newest flood in our earholes. 

The sharp drum intro with the horns gently swinging set us up for a danceable party track, yet there is something subtle and seductive about Joseph's voice. "Like the golden sun, like blowing wind, you're special to me..." is a romantic sentiment that I doubt any ladies would be immune to. When we add in the gorgeous backup singers, we've got magic!

It will be interesting to see where Phil Joseph goes from here - but wherever it is, I'm sure those sensual, artistic, and refined aspects of his performance and songwriting are sure to follow. For my part though, I'm happy to sit back and listen to "Babe You Are Mine" while sipping something delicious and letting the sound of brass and vocals put me at ease. 

Onzieb "All Grown Up"

Many, many years ago when I was working at a used bookstore, I was reading a magazine interview with Cibo Matto's Yuka Honda. She was remarking about how intrigued she was with the process of writing songs with just voice and drum machine, in short, forms of music that thrived on simplicity. And it wasn't just Ms. Honda - several years ago The Fugees had a hit arrangement of "Killing Me Softly," not to mention the numerous Bjork tracks that she did with sparse samples and vocals. 

This is an art form that I'm glad we haven't lost - Onzieb/Kitty J's "All Grown Up" is a lovely Electro/RnB ballad that shines vocally and melodically. The opening organ/synth sounds are rather plain, which is no problem at all because the vocals are so deeply beautiful. Handclaps and bass are the companions of the verse until more intense drum patterns begin. The production and talent present on this recording has me wondering why it's taken me so long to hear it. I suppose that with the barrage of music thrown at us daily, we can't expect that talent alone will equal success, but for Onzieb/Kitty J, I sure hope it comes soon. 

Vices Inc "Rolling '82"

Recently I had the pleasure of sitting down with Eleanore Langthorne and Jagger Hicks from the band Vices Inc, for my podcast Ensnaring the Muse (sadly absent was their drummer Kristy Yeaton). Among other things, we discussed their upcoming release, their album titled "Rolling '82," a fun, rocky, punky, and poppy romp through a few 70's/80's covers and several ear-wormy original tunes. If there was one thing that impressed me above all else (music-wise) I would have to say the vocal melodic mastery employed by the lead singer, Ms. Langthorne - a very close second, however; would be the beautifully expressive guitar playing and songwriting of Jagger. 

We also spoke about the collaborative nature of songwriting in a band and how hard-hit many musicians are during this second round of shutdowns (certainly something with which we can all identify). Vices Inc is a fantastic ensemble well worth the attention. It's also rumored that they are fast creators, so it seems there are plenty of projects in the works, which we will look forward to hearing. 

Suave_UK "Dirty Shaniqua"

The long legacy of Michael Jackson stays with us - it's utterly amazing to me that just the flash of a glove or fedora hat makes me instantaneously think to myself "OK, here's a 'King of Pop' reference." Such an homage is paid in Suave UK's new song/music video: "Dirty Shaniqua." 

Many CMT readers will remember Suave UK from a previous post earlier in the year. Now he's back with a low-fi track bursting at the seems with ferocious bass drums, distorted guitar, and rapid-fire vocals. There's more than a little reggae inspiration in here with the way the vocals are somewhat melodic. Overall, the music video is quite sharp with bright-colored ladies, an MJ reference, and beautiful lighting. It will be interesting to see what happens in the future with Suave UK.

Meddafore "All Out Together"

 I remember an interview several years ago, Childish Gambino (Donald Glover) was talking about his "Freaks and Geeks" track. He said that a lot of the best Hip Hop had a strong element of comedy (I'm paraphrasing obviously). So, yeah, Meddafore's new track "All Out Together" brought a smile to my face more than a few times. One of the opening lines was "it's a known fact that crackers look better with cheese..." 

Lyrically, these guys have real talent, and thank God for that (I can't tell you how many radio hits are plagued by lazy lyrics) so it's good to hear some cats whose work ethic is self-evident. Another point of praise I can send to Meddafore is that I'm in LOVE with the industrial-style beat that accompanies their vocals. It almost reminds me of early NIN, but Hip-Hop, which is awesome. Overall, I have to give this song 5 stars; I love the style, it's original, and shows real craftsmanship. I imagine if you give it a listen, you'll feel the same way. 

Gnarly Karma "Rags to Riches"

How many times have we all dreamed about infinite resources? If you're anything like me, you've laid awake at night dreaming of ways to pamper yourself with all the things money can buy all the while engaging in philanthropic ventures. In Gnarly Karma's newest track "Rags to Riches" the band ponders some of the parameters surrounding wealth and personal accountability. 

The song itself has a very acoustic rock vibe - it has a slight character (and I mean this as a compliment) of contemporary worship music in that it forces an introspective heart/mind.  The opening line "when your rags turn to riches will your blood stay the same? With no sign of recovery, you've got no one else to blame" made my head nod in agreement. There is also this kick-ass accordion harmony in there that really makes the song in my opinion. Check out Gnarly Karma at their website here. 

Teddy Wender "Summer Shirt"

Summer ought to be a time for vacation, holidays, and enjoying life (that is, if we're tapping into that inner child who looked forward to summer break from school) Multitalented and all-around busy guy Teddy Wender (Singer/Songwriter/Composer/Producer) has released a fun and engaging music video/song "Summer Shirt."

There's a lot I really like about this tune, the groovy bassline that lays down a cool vibe from the get go, Wender's singing is the kind that invites us to have fun with him, I LOVE the video for the gifted chap dancing in the streets - plus, there's a killer synth solo smack in the middle of "Summer Shirt." It's unassuming, tasteful, and unpretentious - just a song about good times and enjoying life. 

Dom Cotton "Get Me Outta Here"

It would be factual to say that we live in troubled times; divided political factions, a global pandemic, and seemingly mass loss of purpose appear to haunt modern global society. Many of us fed up with modern difficulties are seeking some kind of escape. It's that energy that Dom Cotton (a rather handsome Australian singer/songwriter) is tapping into in his new song "Get Me Outta Here."

The music video opens with news clips of the aforementioned troubled times and our singer (and main actor) looking somewhat defeated at the television. The song then breaks into a fun poppy electronic jam with Cotton singing. The tune itself is rather danceable, an ideal track for remixes that would grace DJ nightclub sets. Overall, it's nice to see people embracing the idea that things will get better for us, even if we have to run to a beautiful beach to do it.  

Chris St. John "A Box for Jewels"

One thing that I have always admired in other songwriters, that I lack in my own songs, is the ability to spin a narrative - within me, there is a deep appreciation for the storytellers (the lyrics for my own songs tend to be more stream-of-consciousness). I was thinking about this while listening to Chris St. John's new track "A Box for Jewels;" I don't want to give any spoilers but suffice to say, the poetic experience beautifully matches the musical one. 

"A Box for Jewels" opens with a child's music-box-like into that then morphs into sophisticated guitar, bass, piano, and drum instrumentation. St. John's vocal melody is somewhat monotone in the verses allowing the lyrics to come through uncluttered. It's a love-song to be sure, but there is enough ambiguity to wonder exactly who is the object of such affection (i.e. God, Father, Lover?). Give it a listen, I promise it's edifying. 

Doug Cash "Believe In The Love"

Doug Cash's take on acoustic folk virtuosity shines through in his newest track "Believe In the Love," with shimmering chords that have a bit of gypsy spirit behind them, I'm very enticed by his sound. At about the halfway point, simple percussion and backup vocals join the catchy melody but there is nothing to outshine the main focus, that being the guitar and Cash's singing. 

On one hand "Believe In the Love," is a rather simple song - it's a love song about faith and the commitment that faith demands... This is actually the greatest strength of this tune - but the simple message is married to lush and thick harmonies that make the track so lovely. I hope to hear more from Doug Cash in the future - he seems to have a rather thriving YouTube channel, so that would be a good place to start. 

Ratinoff "Take Me Away"

The California-based artist Ratinoff is out with a new song titled "Take Me Away," a fun driving college-rock-esque tune that reminds me a bit of Smiths, Interpol, or Audio Explorations. The song takes off from the get-go and goes full speed ahead for the duration (There is also quite an enjoyable music video, which you ought to watch below). 

I really like Ratinoff's voice - he's fantastically in tune and has a wonderful range - but more importantly than all of that is the fact that it's unique, not the garden variety rock singer at all (which is perhaps why I thought so quickly of Interpol). "Take Me Away" is another in the lineup of songs to go in your road trip playlist and maybe repeat a few dozen times during the journey. 

Sarantos "Eyebanging"

OK, not sure where to start with this one - the thing is, in the age of meme-humor, trolling, and internet jokes I just can't tell who's being serious these days. Sarantos is self-described as a "DIY international award-winning solo music artist, singer-songwriter, and proud nerd." The thing is, with his new song "eyebanging" I have no idea if this is a viral-video prank or inspired music from someone who might only appeal to more comedic tastes. Be the judge for yourself:

We've had really good jokester in the past... Ill Mitch comes to mind - but we've also had viral sensations that were more genuine (think of the Chinese singer "Wing" for instance). Sarantos's song has a fun disco-electro beat supporting his vocals and the music video did absolutely put a smile on my face but I'm afraid "eyebanging" left me more confused than anything else. 

Pamela Hopkins "Givin' A Damn (Don't Go With My Outfit)"

As someone who lives in a small town myself, I can say that the gossip-circles can be maddening. Perhaps it's just part-and-parcel to everyone knowing everyone else but there are more than just of few of us that would find great pleasure in giving the middle finger to our neighbors while going about our business. 

Arkansas-based singer/songwriter Pamela Hopkins seems to be dialing into our innermost desires on her new song "Givin' a Damn (Don't Go With My Outfit)," which is a two-fisted retribution of snotty individuals thinking there better than those on the outs of society. It's quite funky for a country song and Hopkins's voice is a beautiful balance of rock/blues/country that is as much soulful as it is sassy.