R.I.Y.L.: Ryan Adams, Josh Ritter, Jason Isbell, David Gray Paul Simon

Chicago-based Nick Shaheen is breaking new ground with his latest single, “Flashbulbs,” from his stunning album, Sauvignon, out now. His second full-length release to date, Shaheen brings to the forefront a stunning mixture of modern Americana sound and incredibly strong songwriting. This breathtaking piece is just one of the highlights you will find on Sauvignon.

“I was in the kitchen cooking dinner. I remember I was chopping up potatoes when this violent vision completely overtook me. Everything was so vivid. I had a full-on panic attack right there,” shares Shaheen. Two weeks later the vision still haunted him. “I couldn’t hold a knife for weeks; ‘What the hell was that? How could you even think that? You’re going crazy.’ I read all about it online, like I’m a psychiatrist trying to diagnose myself and find the cure all at once. I found these message boards for intrusive thoughts where people were dealing with stuff like this for years. It made me more nervous, but at the same time gave me hope. After I had some time to reflect, I started to write down the scene as it came to me and a song started to take shape. The idea was to lay it all out and triumph over it.”

A hypnotic yet chaotic rhythm section and the battle of menacing electric guitar versus victorious Dobro are joined by Shaheen’s captivating vocals, which provide a powerful listening experience from start to finish. “Flashbulbs” is just a slight taste of the musical journey that Sauvignon takes listeners on.

Listen: Nick Shaheen “Flashbulbs”
https://soundcloud.com/nickshaheenmusic/flashbulbs

Little Shells is an up-and-coming act that hails from Brooklyn. A lovely take on orchestral indie pop, Little Shells, the moniker of Conchita Campos , draws you in with her latest single, “Ill Remain,” from her new album, 5 Deep Under, out now.

A perfect introduction to the songstress, 5 Deep Under proves that she is not just another run-of-the-mill singer-songwriter.  Her knack for writing songs that are both heartfelt and enticing is quite a talent all on its own. Her third release under the Little Shells name, she calls upon the help of local New York musicians to carry out her vision. Clocking in with 9 songs, each piece on the album is heaven sent and filled with surprises. The first song on the record is “Another Night,” which in vocals reminds me a bit of Jenny Lewis (at her best), and the instrumentation of Sufjan Stevens. Immediately this record has won me over. Every track is somehow more gorgeous than the next. Campo’s voice is lively and sad at the same time, which in my opinion is the perfect combination.

Another standout song to me on the record is “Lola’s Song,” which is so beautiful in every way possible. It also reminds me a little bit of Cat Power. Her piano playing is stunning and intricate, and works hand in hand with her echoing and prominent voice. “When They’re Gone,” another glowing piece on the album, is beyond charming. The sadness is Campo’s  vocals, which I assume is intentional, really works for her. I literally have chills down my spine as I listen to these songs; laced with strings, horns and subtle elements that mean a lot. If Little Shells doesn’t become a household name by the end of 2015, I would be extremely surprised. From start to finish 5 Deep Under is utterly, and truly the definition of perfection.

“Ill Remain” via Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/littleshells/ill-remain

Kevin Jenkins kicks off our Wednesday with a charming release of ‘Til the Story’s Told, a nice collection of Americana and Blues infused tracks, which is officially out on June 9^th (True Groove Records). Jenkins is no stranger to the musical world, has been a seasoned musician for going on 40 years. He’s played everywhere from Tokyo’s Budokan, to London’s Albert Hall, to New York’s Madison Square Garden. A professional bassist, he has shared the bill with the best from The Police, Michael Jackson, Eric Clapton, Tina Turner, BB King and Joe Cocker. An impressive resume to say the least!

‘Til the Story’s Told is the second official solo release by Kevin Jenkins, and it delves deeper into his psyche. The tales of the loss of a parent, new beginnings, and new life, are perceived throughout the record, making listeners not only take notice of his musical performance, but of his lyrical abilities as well.

The first single from the record, “Janie’s Silver Lining,” is a fantastic piece that is a brilliant introduction to the record, and Jenkins himself for new listeners. 9-tracks are displayed throughout the album, and cover a wide range of grounds and genres. From the blissful cover of Norman Greenbaum’s “Spirit of the Sky,” which does the classic song justice and then some, Jenkins showcases his talent throughout the entire record. His voice has a vibrant consistency which flows flawlessly on the album.

Another song that caught my attention is “King of Everything,” which is one of the smoothest songs I have heard in quite a while. Jenkin’s voice is stellar on this track in particular, and it really is a nice addition to the album. “Country Line” is also another song that stands out to me, as I found it to be extremely captivating.  Kevin Jenkin’s ‘Til the Story’s Told, is a phenomenal record that will stand the test of time. Open your ears and listen…

Kevin Jenkin’s”Janie’s Silver Lining” at Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/jenkzy56/03-janies-silver-lining-1

Watch: Buffalo Rodeo’s New Video for “Blue Sky”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dhx6sIW8WOc

Bowling Green, Kentucky’s Buffalo Rodeo, have just released their trippy new video for the buzzworthy single, “Blue Sky,” via The Vinyl District. The colorful and vibrant video captures the very essence of the song. With the band performing throughout the piece, the footage proves to be captivating and enticing, just like the very song it represents.

Buffalo Rodeo, who are currently on a lengthy tour of the U.S., will be releasing the vinyl edition of their new EP, 123 Water, via Jeffery Drag Records, later this month. The album is currently out digitally. 123 Water dances a line between classical ethereal sounds reminiscent of 70’s bands like Pink Floyd and Fleetwood Mac, and modern psychedelic variations like Mac DeMarco and Tame Impala. The band’s second release, the EP shows a considerable maturation from their 2013 debut, Home Videos. Buffalo Rodeo strives to combine tight rhythms and ambient melodies with expressive vocal harmonies on their newest release.

Buffalo Rodeo has worked tirelessly as an independent band securing shows at festivals such as The Big To-Do Festival, Starry Nights Music & Arts Festival, and Riot Fest, as well as booking tours in around 25 states in 2013 alone.Buffalo Rodeo is comprised of Nate Davis (guitar), Zach Preston (vocals), Ryan Gilbert (drums), Jordan Reynolds (keys, vocals), Patrick Duncan (bass) and Kevin Creambus (van).

TOUR DATES

5/5 – Rupert’s – Kalamazoo, MI

5/6 – Mac’s Bar – Lansing, MI

5/7 – PJ’s Lager House – Detroit, MI

5/8 – The Abbey – Chicago, IL

5/9 – Virginia Avenue Folk Fest – Indianapolis, IN

5/14 – Vinyl Release Show! at Spencer’s – Bowling Green, KY

5/15 – Lowertown Arts and Music Festival – Paducah, KY

5/16 – Rocky’s Graduation Celebration – Bowling Green, KY

5/19 – Georgia Theatre Rooftop – Athens, GA

6/4 – The New Vintage – Louisville KY

6/5- Best Friend Bar – Lexington, KY

6/7 -Tiball’s – Bowling Green, KY