Gernado's "Golden Heart" is a musical masterpiece that seamlessly blends reggae vibes with hip-hop aesthetics, creating a delightful fusion that captivates the senses. The track opens with a fantastically beautiful beat that sets the tone for an enchanting auditory journey.
The infectious rhythm, paired with Gernado's rhythmic and captivating voice, transports listeners to a realm where reggae and hip-hop converge in perfect harmony. The artist's vocal delivery adds a layer of charisma, making each lyric feel like a rhythmic poetry that effortlessly rides the waves of the beat.
What I lvoe about "Golden Heart" is its awesome lead, which takes the listener on a melodic adventure. The lead instrument weaves through the composition with finesse, enhancing the overall sonic experience and leaving an indelible mark on the listener's memory.
Gernado's ability to blend genres while maintaining a cohesive and engaging sound is commendable. "Golden Heart" is not just a song; it's a testament to Gernado's artistry and creativity. This track is a must-listen for those who appreciate the beauty of genre-blurring music that leaves you with a sense of euphoria.
Ray Lao's "Climb Every Mountain (P.S. 137 Ms. White Mix) (Live)" is a musical gem that beautifully blends jazz and classical elements, showcasing Lao's incredible talent as a trumpeter and singer-songwriter. Hailing from the Lower East Side of Manhattan, New York City, Lao pays homage to his roots in a soulful performance that transcends genres.
The dedication of the song to his former band teacher, Marian White Riley, adds a heartfelt touch to the music. It's evident that Lao's passion for music is deeply rooted in his personal experiences, and this sincerity resonates throughout the performance. The live aspect of the video captures the raw energy and emotion, making it an immersive and engaging experience for the viewer.
Lao's skillful trumpet playing is a highlight, showcasing both technical prowess and emotional depth. The fusion of jazz and classical influences creates a unique and captivating sound that sets him apart as an emerging artist in the music scene. "Climb Every Mountain" is not just a song; it's a testament to the power of music to connect, inspire, and pay tribute to those who have played a significant role in one's journey. Ray Lao is undoubtedly an artist to watch, and this performance is a testament to his promising future in the world of jazz and classical music.
GERNADO's single "COOL WAYS" delivers an infectious blend of reggae beats and smooth synthesizer lines that create a captivating sonic experience. The song exudes positive vibes and an undeniable groove, making it a perfect choice for laid-back gatherings or simply to lift your spirits. GERNADO showcases their talent in crafting catchy melodies and infusing them with a refreshing energy. "COOL WAYS" is a feel-good track that will have you nodding your head and swaying along from start to finish. It's an excellent addition to any playlist for those seeking a delightful musical escape.
"Let You Go" by Lil Murky is a mesmerizing track that effortlessly blends sweet arpeggiated guitars, smooth-flowing pads, and impeccable drums. Lil Murky's captivating voice draws you into the song's emotional journey. The combination of the sweet beat and his vocals creates an enchanting atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression. It's a refreshing piece that showcases Lil Murky's talent and musicality, making it a must-listen for any music enthusiast.
Mariama Whyte enchants listeners with her soulful neo-soul/R&B single, "What If I Fall In Love Witchu," a melodious journey reminiscent of the musical finesse of Sunny Sumpter and Erykah Badu. This heartfelt track beautifully blends modern sensibilities with classic elements, resulting in a refreshing and captivating sonic experience.
From the very start, the electronic piano weaves a magical spell, setting the stage for Mariama's emotive vocals to take center stage. Her voice, infused with passion and vulnerability, carries the song's romantic essence, leaving a lasting impression on the heart of the audience.
The swirling strings add an ethereal touch, enhancing the song's emotive depth and elevating its impact. The subtle calypso beat infuses a delightful rhythm, making it irresistible not to sway along to the infectious groove.
"What If I Fall In Love Witchu" is a poignant and alluring ode to the complexities of love, showcasing Mariama Whyte's talent as both a singer and songwriter. With its soul-stirring melodies and immaculate instrumentation, this single is a gem that leaves us eagerly awaiting more from this exceptional artist.
"Hell Of A Night" is a thrilling collaboration between the self-taught Montreal artist and sound engineer, ACTHEKiDFROMSPACE, and the dynamic Nigerian dancehall and afrobeat fusion artist, Pupa Tee. Together, they create an electrifying musical journey that transcends genres and pushes the boundaries of contemporary music.
With influences from various genres and artists, ACTHEKiDFROMSPACE's distinct sound shines through in this track, delivering smooth midnight vibes that resonate with the listener's emotions. The song's production is masterfully crafted, capturing the essence of nostalgia and evoking vivid memories and feelings.
Pupa Tee's electric delivery of lyrics and melodies adds a powerful edge to "Hell Of A Night," elevating the energy and making it impossible not to move to the infectious rhythm. The fusion of Montreal and Nigerian musical elements creates a dynamic synergy that sets this collaboration apart.
"Hell Of A Night" is an exhilarating and infectious anthem that showcases the artists' artistic growth and innovative approach to music-making, leaving the audience eagerly anticipating more from this dynamic duo.
The Finite Beings showcase their mesmerizing musical prowess in the single "Time Slave," leaving listeners entranced from the very first note. This captivating track blends elements of Middle-Eastern flair with an enthralling fusion of guitar and piano, creating a truly unique sonic experience. The breathy and slightly grungy vocals add an enigmatic layer to the song, evoking a sense of raw emotion.
The accompanying music video serves as a surreal visual feast, complementing the song's energy and further immersing the audience into The Finite Beings' artistic vision. With its thought-provoking imagery and striking cinematography, the video amplifies the single's impact.
"Time Slave" is an adventurous and boundary-pushing offering, making it clear that The Finite Beings are a band to watch closely as they carve their path in the music industry.
"Untamed" by The Finite Beings is a captivating rock/grunge song that leaves a lasting impact. The band showcases their musical prowess with powerful instrumentals that drive the song's energy. The gifted vocalist delivers a passionate performance, flawlessly conveying the raw emotions of the lyrics. From a Christian perspective, the chorus, "your ways are higher than my ways," resonates deeply, reminding listeners of the divine wisdom and guidance that surpasses human understanding. With its infectious melody and thought-provoking message, "Untamed" is an anthem that not only showcases the band's talent but also offers a spiritual connection, making it a standout in the genre.
Rebecca Ray's rendition of Miley Cyrus' "Flowers" is an exquisite musical gem that captures the essence of the original while adding her own unique touch. With sweet swooping strings and dramatic orchestration, Ray creates a mesmerizing atmosphere that elevates the song to new heights. Her interpretation exudes authenticity and artistry, showcasing her remarkable vocal range and emotive delivery. The arrangement beautifully complements the heartfelt lyrics, creating a deeply immersive experience for the listener. Ray's "Flowers" stands out as a refreshing and original cover, demonstrating her exceptional talent and ability to breathe new life into a beloved song. It's a delightful and captivating musical journey that leaves a lasting impression.
GERNADO's "Good Day" is a delightful reggae ballad that effortlessly captures the essence of a bright and beautiful day. From the very first note, this song transports you to a peaceful tropical paradise, where the sun shines warmly and worries fade away. The smooth reggae rhythm combined with GERNADO's soulful vocals create a mesmerizing and uplifting experience. The lyrics are heartfelt and optimistic, reminding us to cherish the simple joys in life and embrace positivity. With its sweet and infectious melody, "Good Day" is a musical ray of sunshine that spreads happiness and leaves you with a smile on your face. It's a true gem in the reggae genre and a perfect soundtrack for any good day.
"Bones" by Braxill is an explosive, hard-hitting metal tune that ignites the adrenaline and leaves headbangers worldwide craving more. From the first thunderous riff to the relentless barrage of pounding drums and aggressive vocals, this song grabs your attention and refuses to let go. The band showcases their exceptional musicianship and raw energy, creating an intense atmosphere that is perfect for unleashing your inner beast. The bone-crushing guitar solos and thunderous breakdowns will undoubtedly have you headbanging with reckless abandon. "Bones" is a powerhouse of a track that exemplifies the power and brutality of metal, leaving listeners craving the full Braxill experience.
"Come to Me" by Gernado is a captivating musical journey that combines elements of soul, R&B, and pop in a seamless fusion. From the very first note, Gernado's velvety-smooth vocals draw you in, enveloping you in a world of heartfelt emotions. The production is masterfully crafted, with lush instrumentation and infectious melodies that stay with you long after the song ends. The lyrics are introspective and relatable, exploring themes of love, longing, and connection. Gernado's vocal range and control are impressive, effortlessly delivering each note with passion and precision. "Come to Me" is a soul-stirring track that showcases Gernado's immense talent and promises a bright future for this rising artist.
Mark Newman's latest music video, "At The Border," delves into the struggles faced by people fleeing war, oppression, and hunger around the world. Directed by George Panagakos of 525 Media, the video is now available on Mark Newman's Official YouTube Channel and social media pages.
The genesis of the song "At The Border" was rooted in the plight of those escaping the war in Ukraine. However, Newman's intention was to shed light on the universal issue of people seeking refuge and a better life throughout history. During a pre-production meeting, Newman expressed his desire to represent this worldwide problem through the visual medium.
Mark Newman has always used his music to tackle tough topics and ignite political and social change. His previous releases, such as "When I Aim My Gun" and "Tulsa," which recounts the tragic Tulsa Massacre of 1921, demonstrate his commitment to raising awareness and creating meaningful dialogue.
The video for "At The Border" serves as a poignant reminder of the staggering number of refugees worldwide. With approximately 281 million refugees, accounting for 3.6 percent of the global population, and a significant increase in international migrants over the past decades, the song resonates with the challenges faced by those seeking a better life.
In the United States alone, there are over 44 million immigrants, and a third of them—14.8 million—fall into the low-income bracket, highlighting the economic disparities and struggles faced by many newcomers.
Mark Newman's "At The Border" music video is a powerful visual representation of the ongoing global refugee crisis. Through his heartfelt lyrics and socially conscious storytelling, Newman continues to use his music as a platform to address pressing issues and advocate for change.
Red Matter, the unstoppable force of creative energy, takes listeners on a thrilling musical journey with their debut album, "Northbound Train." Available now on Spotify and all major music services, this record showcases the band's ability to effortlessly blend various genres, delivering 10 timeless tunes that leave an indelible mark.
With "Northbound Train," Red Matter builds upon the success of their debut single, "Light of the Moon," and establishes their signature sound and style. The album showcases their versatility as they seamlessly transition from rock and pop to funk, Americana, and beyond. Regardless of the genre, Red Matter infuses each track with their patented groovy jams, captivating listeners with infectious rhythms and undeniable charisma.
One standout track, "Jokers Wild," transports listeners to an old-school speakeasy on the wrong side of town. The song immerses you in a mysterious atmosphere where the liquor pours and the mood soars, sometimes taking unexpected turns. Red Matter's ability to create a vivid sonic landscape is complemented by the upcoming video for this tune, promising to add a visual dimension to their already captivating music.
For those craving a live experience, Red Matter has upcoming performances that shouldn't be missed. Catch them on May 20 at the Montauk Music Festival and on May 27 at the Park City Music Hall. Their live shows are known for their electrifying energy and the band's ability to bring their music to life on stage.
"Northbound Train" serves as an impressive debut for Red Matter, showcasing their undeniable talent and musical vision. The album's diverse range of tracks ensures that there's something for everyone, while the band's cohesive style ties it all together. Join Red Matter on their maiden musical voyage and hop aboard the "Northbound Train" for an exhilarating ride through their groovy and captivating world.
Elektragaaz returns with a vengeance in their latest release, "Your Own Private Cinema, Part 1," the first installment of an ambitious six-part series of EPs. Building on the success of their previous EP series, "The Synaesthetic Picture Show," Elektragaaz continues to push boundaries and defy genre conventions with their mind-bending electronic multi-fusion soundscapes.
From the moment you press play, "Your Own Private Cinema, Part 1" immerses you in a mesmerizing musical journey that defies categorization. Elektragaaz effortlessly weaves together a tapestry of influences from pop, synth pop, rock, progressive rock, electronic jazz, jazz fusion, soundtrack, club, techno, deep house, ambient music, hip hop, trip hop, dance, classical music, film noir, comic strips, graphic novels, spaghetti westerns, and video games.
Attempting to categorize Elektragaaz's music becomes a futile exercise as it transcends traditional boundaries. The sonic landscape created by the band is a masterful fusion of diverse elements ranging from the sizzle of jazz to the baroque aromas, the smooth elongated flows of prog-rock, the energy of dance, and the heft of alt-rock. It's as if Kraftwerk found themselves in an imaginary studio in the sky collaborating with Vangelis, Steven Wilson, Gorillaz, Snarky Puppy, Jean-Michel Jarre, Brian Eno, Aphex Twin, Wendy Carlos, and Pink Floyd.
"Your Own Private Cinema, Part 1" is a testament to Elektragaaz's musical genius and originality. With each track, they transport listeners to new dimensions, evoking a sense of wonder and awe. The EP serves as a tantalizing introduction to the upcoming series, leaving us eagerly anticipating the next installment. Elektragaaz has once again proven their ability to redefine instrumental music and push the boundaries of sonic exploration.
Hello CMT readers, for this week's interview we have innovative guitarist and highly original composer Roy Ben Bashat, whose reputation already precedes him; He has recorded with GRAMMY winner trumpeter Darren Barrett, performed with GRAMMY-nominated multi-instrumentalist Morgan Guerin and renowned saxophonist Noah Preminger, among many others. He has also been performing under his own name, and showcasing his original music in some of the most prestigious venues in the world, like ‘Beit Haamudim’ in Tel Aviv, Israel and the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. We were able to meet up in early March, enjoy our discussion below:
MW: Mr. Ben Bashat, thank you so much for doing this
RBB: Thanks for having me, Michael.
MW: I had a listen to “Storyteller of a War,” and I can solidly say that I’ve never heard anything like it – is that piece representative of your overall style?
RBB: Thanks! I would say it definitely represents one aspect of what I do. Growing up, so-called “Traditional Jazz” was my main thing. Over time, my ear was drawn more and more to contemporary artists though, so I guess my writing and general vision is heavily influenced by those two realms.
MW: I really think you’re onto something with the way you handle dissonance in your work; there seems to be an almost atonal yet very tonal quality to it – if that makes sense.
RBB: I think so, yeah. The concept of shifting around harmonic keys pretty frequently in one song is something you probably won’t hear as much in popular music, yet in Jazz, it’s pretty common. The real magic, in my opinion, is when you can write a strong melody that will engage the listener, and then all this complex, atonal harmony underneath is like a pallet of mystery colors that support it and makes it more interesting.
MW: Let’s talk about your quartet, how did you all come together?
RBB: I started this band in 2021 when I used to live in Boston. It was in the midst of the pandemic, and at the time there was barely work for us. As a band, we thought it will be cool to get together on a weekly basis and work on some music, just for ourselves. However, over time we realized we are onto something, so we decided to record and make it more serious.
MW: For people who are unfamiliar with your music, could you give us a glimpse into your musical/educational journey?
RBB: Sure. I started playing piano when I was 6. However, I wasn’t really into it at the time, so I switched to guitar when I was 9. Unfortunately, I didn’t come from a musical family, however, I was fortunate enough to have a great educational background. I studied in the Thelma Yelin high school of the arts in Israel, which is considered to be one of the best music schools in the world. Regardless of the great teachers that I studied with at my time there, the students’ environment was very competitive and very much pushing one to their limits. That really shaped me.
MW: I’m curious what you think about the explosion of alternative guitar techniques over the past few years. For my part, I would have thought that everything that could be done on the instrument, has been done – and yet, we’ve got folks like “Animals as Leaders,” “Polyphia” and the like seemingly breaking new ground. I would also include you in that camp given the freshness of your sound.
RBB: Yeah, I think my response for that will be something more general about our nature. Evolution, in all aspects of life, is something that always seem to be very prominent. Something about the nature of the human being always thrives to learn more, seek more, progress more. Therefore, having such a rich history of, in that case, legendary guitar players, allows nowadays guitarists (like Tosin Abasi from Animals as Leaders and Tim Henson from Polyphia) to study and learn what was already invented by past guitarists and after that, give their own input on the instrument.
MW: I listened to your live performance of “It’s Getting Late” and you have quite a nice singing voice. How often do you grab the mic?
RBB: Oh thanks! Actually not that frequent … This particular project you are referring to is relatively new. For the past two years, I started writing songs and lyrics and I came to the conclusion that I want to sing these songs as well, so I started vocal training a year ago.
MW: Anything new on the horizon?
RBB: Yes! I am releasing a new EP in the coming months that I called Lucid. ‘Storyteller of a War’ is actually the first single from that EP, and it will feature the same band.
MW: Thanks again for sharing your music and thoughts with us
Hello CMT readers - we've got quite a treat for you today. This week's interview features Dr. Guthrie Ramsey who's just released the book "Who Hears Here?"
MW: Dr. Ramsey, it's an honor to be talking to you. Thank you for making the time.
GR: Thank you for having me.
MW: First thing I would like to do is to express my gratitude for a short book title, or better put, not including a colon followed by a long explanation on the front cover.
GR: Yes, indeed. Titles can be tricky. They need to say what the book is about plus be provocative and catchy. Tough to do, sometimes.
MW: OK, let's get right into things, what prompted you to write "Who Hears Here?"
GR: The book collects essays that I’ve written through the years as a music scholar and critic. I wanted to bring the work together in one place.
MW: Could you talk about some of the major findings over your decades of work in this field?
GR: One the most important thing I’ve learned is how crucial African American music has been to America’s musical profile, and how crucial it is to understand this for our society.
MW: Generally, what do you feel is the state of scholarship when it comes to Black music, and Black culture?
GR: We are experiencing a robust surge in the types of topics scholars are researching. It’s truly exciting.
MW: I'd like to switch gears to talk about "A Spiritual Vibe," which for my ears is quite a departure from the new compositions coming from the academy. Could you talk a bit about the history of that project?
GR: Funny, I don’t look at my music as “coming from the academy,” but from a more personal place. The project represents my experimenting with new blends in digital and analog music making combined in a project based on spiritual music. The music was arranged and written a challenging time in my life as a dealt with serious health concerns. I believe music has the capacity to help us heal.
MW: I'm very taken with the vocal parts of the album - how did you accomplish such tight harmonies fitting so snuggly into the mix?
GR: The singers on the album, my daughter Bridget Ramsey Russell and musical collaborator, WAYV WILSON have a great blend and superb use of their vibratos. With their level of expertise, I was able to write close harmonies without worrying if they could make them work.
MW: Your primary instrument is the piano - did choosing that instrument shape how you approach compositions?
GR: I always compose at the piano, so, yes, of course, that’s how I hear music.
MW: Is there any chance it affected your writing/research?
GR: Being a musician has always shaped how I approached my research. It informs how I think about the music I write about, how I hear it, and what I’d like others to know as they read my work.
MW: Maybe you could talk a little bit about the reception of both your book and your album?
GR: I’ve been so pleased how many people are buying and teaching my book and the music in their courses. It’s been very gratifying—surprising even.
MW: Do you ever see the academy and the pop world merging in a meaningful way?
GR: I came into the field in the early 1990s at a time when popular music study was beginning to become one of the most exciting areas of study. It’s only grown since that time, and I expect that to continue.
MW: Is anything new on the horizon for you?
GR:I’m looking forward to writing more music—a follow up to A Spiritual Vibe, vol. 1. I’m also writing a new history of African American music for a wider public audience titled, Sound Proof.
MW: Thank yo so much, again, for this - it's really special to have someone of your caliber interview for this humble blog. Where can people find out more about you?
"Medicine"by Nxtime is an infectious pop-infused track that delivers a strong message of empowerment and self-love. The song features a catchy chorus, upbeat tempo, and an engaging melody that hooks the listener right from the start. The lyrics are relatable and inspiring, encouraging listeners to find their own inner strength and to rise above any obstacles or challenges that they may face.
The production of the track is also top-notch, with crisp and polished instrumentation that blends seamlessly with the vocals. Nxtime's vocals are powerful and dynamic, delivering the lyrics with conviction and emotion. The overall sound is upbeat and energizing, making "Medicine" a perfect addition to any playlist that needs a boost of positivity.
Overall, "Medicine" by Nxtime is a well-crafted pop gem that delivers a positive and inspiring message wrapped in an infectious melody. It's a song that will lift your spirits and leave you feeling empowered, and it's definitely worth adding to your music library.
Radio Drive (the brainchild of singer/songwriter Kevin Gullickson) is out with a new release titled "Cast Out Your Light" - I was lucky enough to stumble across this one during the week.
With a hauntingly beautiful piano intro, we're greeted with a quickly strumming guitar and lovely tenor vocals. There's an overtly spiritual and uplifting message between the simple short lyrical lines - as a worship team leader for a local church, I can say wholeheartedly that these kinds of tunes are a much-needed sentiment in modern music. The symphonic beats to the drums supported by staccato strings makes for a robust anthem-like song. Radio Drive has a lot going on, if you're a fan of prog-rock/pop of the 1970s this will be a welcome addition to your mix.
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