by Jane Lambert

Collin Derrick’s “Holiday Hallelujah” – Indie Pop Meets Festive Cheer in this Holiday Gem

Collin Derrick, the wildly uncool (his words), middle-aged indie pop maestro with a knack for turning life’s quirks into sonic joy, has struck gold with his latest single, “Holiday Hallelujah.”

This track, a centerpiece of his newly released EP Christmas, Vol. 2, is a jubilant celebration of all things festive, bringing classic holiday nostalgia together with Derrick’s signature modern indie pop sound.

Listen in here:

From the first notes, “Holiday Hallelujah” grabs your attention with its vibrant mix of jangly guitars, upright bass grooves, and shimmering sleigh bells. It’s a track that radiates the kitschy charm of Christmas Vacation and the timeless coziness of Burl Ives. The infectious hook, “Holiday Hallelujah,” is impossible to resist, daring you to sing along as the song builds to an exuberant finish.

Derrick wrote, recorded, produced, mixed, and even mastered the track himself, showing his talent as both artist and producer. Notably, Derrick picked up an upright bass for the first time and revisited his long-neglected drum skills to bring this song to life.

Beyond his holiday releases, Derrick has been carving out a unique space in the indie pop world.

He first gained attention with the quirky track “LaCroix LaCroix,” co-written with Grant Michaels (who has worked with Sia, SZA, and Weezer), and followed it up with the synth-laden single “You’re Magic.”

A former member of the prog piano trio The Fire Tonight, he toured the Southeast for 10 years, releasing three full-length albums and three EPs with the band. As a mix engineer, Collin has worked with Grammy-winners Jeff Coffin and Nir Felder as well as prominent artists like Offset, 2KBABY, and Quando Rondo. His production and co-writing credits include collaborations with Allyn Aston (Atlanta), Anne Reburn (Los Angeles), and Ivy Ash (London).

But Derrick’s holiday music holds a special place in his discography – and his heart. Inspired by his wife’s admittedly high standards for Christmas gifts, Derrick began writing her original holiday songs, a tradition that ultimately led to the Christmas series.

With Christmas, Vol. 2, he expands on the themes of joy and nostalgia, delivering a collection that resonates with listeners while still keeping it lighthearted and fun.

In “Holiday Hallelujah,” Derrick captures the essence of what makes the best holiday songs endure – nonsensical yet unforgettable lyrics, unrelenting cheer, and a sense of warmth that can melt even the coldest winter day.

It’s the perfect addition to a seasonal playlist, bringing a dose of indie charm to your holiday celebrations.

“Holiday Hallelujah” and the full EP, Christmas, Vol. 2, are available now on all major streaming platforms.

Connect with Collin Derrick on Instagram, TikTok and YouTube Music.

11.22.24

by Jane Lambert

Laura Baron’s “Beauty in the Broken” is a Mesmerizing Meditation on Vulnerability and Hope

In a world where music often feels crafted to fit industry molds, chasing trends or filling a commercial void, Laura Baron’s new album Beauty in the Broken stands out for its authenticity and artistic intuition.

Her songs don’t follow any pre-set formulas or calculated gimmicks but, instead, they flow with a natural grace, shaped by genuine emotion and life’s unpredictability.

Listen in here:

Guided by the rhythms of experience, each track feels like a reflection of a specific moment.

From the uplifting energy of “Walking on Water” to the quiet introspection of the title track, Baron lets the music lead her and allows for an organic exploration of joy, heartbreak, and healing.

It’s this sense of freedom – this refusal to cater to anything but the soul of the song – that makes Beauty in the Broken such a compelling listen. Baron’s warm and dynamic vocals have the ability to glide over the upbeat instrumentation.

In the title track, “Beauty In The Broken”, the song marries delicate acoustic guitar and tender strings, creating an atmosphere that is both intimate and expansive. The poeticism in the lyrics conveying a profound sense of healing and acceptance, reminding us of the grace that can emerge from even the most challenging experiences.

Then there’s “Misfits and Renegades,” a celebratory track that pulses with energy and infectious optimism. Blending folk and blues, the song’s vibrant piano lines and vocal harmonies create an empowering narrative about embracing individuality and defying expectations.

Baron also brings a touch of romance and intimacy with “Enchanté,” a lush and atmospheric track that blends folk and jazz in a way that recalls the emotional complexity of early Nick Drake. The song’s soft, tender melodies underscored by rich guitar work and a dreamy vibe that transports you into the world of quiet longing and connection.

Perhaps most surprising is her re-imagining of the 1931 classic “Dream a Little Dream.” With its gentle, stripped-down arrangement, Baron gives the song a new life, elevating it with intricate guitar work and lush vocal harmonies. It’s a beautiful moment on the album, showing an ability to take something familiar and turn it into something completely her own.

Produced with precision by Marco Delmar, the sound is lush and inticate without being over produced.

With the title to guide us, we are swept up in the flow of the album. The great thing about music like this is that the listener can allow the music to conjure our own thoughts, allowing enough space to take its own unique message and arrive at its own conclusions about life.

As an artist, Laura Baron has always been known for her ability to connect deeply with her audience, and Beauty in the Broken is no exception.

A longtime fixture of the DMV music scene, Baron has earned accolades for her work, including multiple Wammie Awards for her previous album, Heart of the Great Unknown.

But wiith Beauty in the Broken, she builds on this legacy even more and delivers a collection of songs that feel timeless in their emotional honesty and artistic integrity.

Keep up to date with Laura Baron here:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / YouTube Music

11.19.24

by Jane Lambert

Blonde & Grey’s New Album Release “Drifting Through The Universe” – A Journey Across Decades and Emotions

Blonde & Grey’s latest album release “Drifting Through The Universe” is a thoughtful, immersive dive into classic rock-inspired melodies layered with a contemporary edge.

Kathy Olsen and Neil Friend have created something special here – this is a record that feels as though it’s been lovingly pieced together from the past while gazing firmly toward the future.

The lead single, “All The Time,” is the perfect opener, with Olsen’s soulful vocals and Friend’s effortlessly smooth guitar work creating a sound that is comforting and fresh. It’s a song that sticks with you, warm and melodic, like it’s been waiting on your favorite playlist.

Listen in here:

Friend says about the song:

“I started looping a beat and then record 20-30 seconds of some music on top of that and then toss on some lyrics without spending time worrying about what was coming out – just record it! I took 10 of these and asked the Blonde & Grey community which they like best and this one won.

I used the initial lyrics as the chorus – “All the Time Wondering how it’s gonna be…” I later added verses and a bridge.

I suppose the thinking is we are always wondering what’s to happen next, based on what/who we’re following, decisions we make, where we’ve gone. And it’s an endless process.“

The rest of the album unfolds like a story as it moves through tender reflections and lighter, playful moments.

“Since I Got You” has a breezy sweetness, while “Let’s Jangle” lives up to its name, full of charm and bright energy. Olsen’s flute dances through the arrangements, adding a magical, almost whimsical quality to the songs. It’s a touch that sets them apart and reminds you of the days when rock was unafraid to experiment.

This album feels like a leap forward from their previous release, Face the Music. There’s a stronger sense of identity here, as though Blonde & Grey have really leaned into what makes them unique.

Tracks like “Mud Mills Road” and “Gracie’s Grace” from their earlier work hinted at their potential, but Drifting Through The Universe delivers on it, with a sound that is both cohesive and diverse.

Blonde & Grey have always been about connection, and you can feel that here. Not just in the songs, but in the spirit of the album. They’ve built a reputation as incredible live performers, whether that is in small, cozy venues or online streams, and that authenticity translates beautifully into this record.

About Blonde & Grey

Blonde & Grey, the dynamic duo of Neil Friend and Kathy Olsen, are a true example of the enduring power of music to bridge time, generations, and genres.

Based in Danbury, Connecticut, the duo bring together their unique musical backgrounds into a sound that’s as heartfelt as it is versatile.

Neil Friend, singer-songwriter and guitarist, brings decades of experience from playing in New York’s iconic CBGB scene to crafting songs that traverse decades. His partner, Kathy Olsen, adds a touch of elegance with her virtuosic flute playing and radiant harmonies and draws on her classical training and years as a music educator.

Together, they have cultivated a style that is equal parts folk, rock, and modern pop, infused with nostalgia and innovation in equal measure.

If you’re a fan of Fleetwood Mac, The Moody Blues, or just music that feels honest and deeply human, then their new album “Drifting Through The Universe” deserves your time.

Keep up to date with Blonde & Grey on their Website.

Listen to “Drifting Through The Universe” here.

Stream music on Spotify and Soundcloud.

11.15.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’s with JASON SINAY

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Jason Sinay is a name that carries weight in the music world, not just for his collaborations with icons like Keith Richards, Neil Young, and Lucinda Williams, but for his long-standing role as a member of Heartbreaker Mike Campbell’s band, the Dirty Knobs.

Now, stepping into the spotlight with his solo career, Sinay is carving a new path defined by raw masterful and original songwriting, and a deep connection to his musical roots.

At the heart of this next chapter is “High Plains Drifter,” the lead single from his upcoming double album, “The Mountain“ due to be released at the beginning of 2025.

Inspired by Clint Eastwood’s iconic Western of the same name, the song blends cosmic country-rock with introspective storytelling, painting a vivid picture of self-reckoning. Its jangly guitars and atmospheric grooves capture the timeless spirit of the Old West while reflecting Sinay’s personal journey of confronting inner demons and embracing the complexity of human nature.

In this exclusive interview, Sinay opens up about the inspiration behind the official music video to “High Plains Drifter”:

1. Tell us the story of this song. Why did you choose to visualize this song specifically in this way?

“High Plains Drifter” centers on an ominous character — “Born to be a liar/ Born to be a liar/ Like me” — who turns out to be the man in the mirror.

The song is about coming to terms with my own sense of good and evil within myself. I never wanted to look at evil in my life. I always was like, That doesn’t exist. That can’t be true. People aren’t that bad.

And then I realized, Well, sometimes, I’m not that bad.

The song is named after Clint Eastwood’s 1973 Western High Plains Drifter — one of my favorite films ever made!

2. What was the inspiration behind this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

We approached legendary music video director Woody Ford, who brings fun and compelling imagery to his work. We all are fans of the silent Western/Comedy films of the early 1900’s and thought those masterpiece’s could be a great resource to tell the story of the onimous characters of the old West, outlined in the song. I am thrilled with the results.

3. What was the process of making this video?

Woody and his team spent over 40 hours viewing classic silent films, most over 100 years old, that he could repurpose to bring the storyline to life. I was blown away with the wealth of great footage they uncovered.

It was amazing how Woody used the lyrics, throughout the video, and kept the integrity of these classic films by making the video in the style of a silent film. He did use some modern AI technology, to incorporate me as one of the characters in the video … see if you can locate my cameo?

Keep up to date with Jason Sinay on his Website.

Stream music on Spotify and YouTube.

10.24.24

by Jane Lambert

Faint Halos Shines Bright in New Album Release “I can see a million lights”

Faint Halos latest offering, “I can see a million lights“, marks a transformative chapter for singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Paul Hashemi.

This album is a striking blend of folk, rock, and experimental sounds, which also maintains a deeply personal narrative throughout all of its ten tracks.

Opening with “The Miracle Comes,” listeners are greeted with an uplifting vibe straight away. Hashemi’s voice shine against a backdrop of rhythmic drumming and bright instrumentation, setting a hopeful tone that carries through the album.

In contrast, “Last Scenes of the Resistance” explores darker themes of sacrifice and the weight of leaving loved ones behind for a cause. Hashemi narrates the story of a resistance fighter, reminding us of the personal stakes involved in the fight for freedom. The lyrical depth here manages to show how Hashemi brings intricate, poignant stories into his music.

One of the standout tracks, “Something To Lose,” re-imagines a previous rock hit as a delicate acoustic piece.

Stripped away of its original electric energy, the song allows the raw vulnerability to take center stage, particularly in the tender harmonies with Paul Hashemi’s daughter, Cate. Their collaboration adds an intimate layer, transforming it into an exploration of familial bonds and shared experiences.

The use of unconventional instruments, like a re-purposed sofa as a kick drum, shows Hashemi’s creativity and ability to find artistry in the everyday.

“Skyline Hill” is another highlight that captures the essence of nostalgia with its minimalist guitar work and evocative lyrics. Hashemi paints a vivid picture of Philadelphia. The delicate eBow guitar lines create an atmosphere that evokes a warm summer night, while the sparse arrangement allows the listener to immerse themselves in the emotional landscape. Here, Hashemi explores themes of belonging and the transient nature of life, emphasizing how our sense of home is shaped by both the familiar as well as more fleeting moments.

The energy shifts dramatically with “Disaster,” where gentle guitar arpeggios gradually build into an emotional crescendo. This track reflects internal conflict, with Hashemi’s unfiltered delivery bringing raw honesty to lines like, “I’m losing grip, it’s getting hard to stay intact.”

The juxtaposition of softness and intensity shows his remarkable ability to convey the complexities of human emotion.

Another reflective moment arrives in “Wasted on Youth,” a ballad that poignantly captures the bittersweet passage of time. The soaring chorus intertwines themes of regret with hope, embodying the struggle of reconciling youthful choices with the wisdom gained over the years. This theme of looking back while moving forward threads throughout the album.

Paul says about the album:

“I can see a million lights” (encapsulates one of its) major themes – reflection on choices made, promises kept, and promises broken in life. For Gen Xers like me, one of the most important values has always been authenticity. Our society today makes it harder than ever to stay authentic, and I think for anybody, as you get older you look back and see things you could have done differently, things that might have been.”

“I can see a million lights” is a beautifully crafted album that feels both intimate and expansive. Hashemi’s innovative approach to instrumentation, combined with emotive lyrics and storytelling, makes it a rewarding listen.

And with more than 100,000 Spotify streams of the singles combined from this album, “I can see a million lights” is sure to be a standout release of 2024 in music.

Keep up to date with Faint Halos:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / YouTube Music

10.04.24

by Jane Lambert

Real Stories, Real Songs in George Collins’s Latest EP “Songs for Grown Ups”

George Collins’s EP “Songs for Grown-ups“ is a wonderful exploration of adulthood all wrapped up in the comforting embrace of Americana rock.

This EP, which includes six previously released singles along with a new and exclusive bonus track, offers a profound reflection on the themes of family, love, aging, and gratitude, all delivered through Collins’s signature warm and inviting sound.

The EP opens with the vibrant “I Got What I Got,” a feel-good anthem that encourages listeners to appreciate life’s blessings.

This song has an upbeat tempo and a melody that creates an instant connection, setting a positive tone for the journey ahead.

Following this, “Where Have I Been All Your Life” displays Collins’s introspective songwriting at its finest, balancing the competing demands of personal passions and family obligations – a relatable sentiment for many especially in the busy world of today.

One of the standout moments in the collection is “My Wish For You.” This song is a touching tribute to Collins’s daughter that took almost a decade to craft. This song encapsulates the hopes and dreams every parent holds for their child, that each parent wants the absolute best for their child and this shows true sincerity and love.

“Stop the Sun” is a more contemplative reminder of life’s fleeting nature, skilfully bringing together themes of time and existence into its storyline. This is a track that invites the listener to pause and reflect, and it really adds a lot of depth to the overall message of the EP.

As the journey comes to a close with “Saving the Best for Last,” listeners are treated to a saxophone-infused melody that has a contemporary flair.

What makes “Songs for Grown-ups” particularly remarkable is Collins’s ability to tackle complex themes without becoming overly serious. Instead, he creates an experience that is both introspective and celebratory and invites the listener to revel in the joy and wisdom that comes with maturity.

Overall, George Collins’s Songs for Grown-ups is a delightful addition to the Americana rock landscape.

It shows an artist who has embraced life’s myriad of experiences, as well as looking back at all of the crossroads and paths that took one to where they are, today. Through catchy hooks and thoughtful storytelling, Collins delivers a collection that will relate for anyone navigating the ups and downs of adulthood.

Originally from Washington D.C. and currently based in Prague, George Collins blends elements of Americana rock with the introspection of blues and soul. His music nods to iconic artists such as The Beatles, Elvis Costello, Dire Straits, Tom Petty, Otis Redding, as well as James Brown.

Collins is also an experienced writer, having penned two novels, a screenplay, as well as numerous short stories and poems. His artistic journey reflects a deep commitment to authenticity, making him a unique voice in today’s music scene.

Connect with George Collins here:

Website // Facebook // Instagram // Spotify