by Jane Lambert

“Clear Blue Waters” Sets the Tone for Brooks J Martin’s Most Revealing Album Yet

There’s something quietly powerful about Brooks John Martin’s new single “Clear Blue Waters“. It doesn’t beg for attention or push too hard. It just is, like the tide rolling in.

Brooks John Martin has always had a way of making music that feels lived-in. Songs that sound like they’ve been with you forever. This one is no different.

There is an openness to it and a sense of movement. You can feel the road stretching ahead, and you can feel the ocean right there beside you. It makes sense, then, that the video to accompany the song was filmed along the Pacific Coast Highway.

That winding stretch of California coastline where land meets sea, where the road feels endless, is the perfect companion to a song about clarity, renewal and the pull of something familiar. But with the devastation of the recent wildfires, those images carry more weight. Beauty and loss, destruction and rebirth. This is all wrapped up in the song’s quiet insistence that we keep moving forward.

Brooks doesn’t overcomplicate things. The lyrics are simple but that’s what makes them carry more emotional weight: “I come from clear, blue waters. Come back to the clear blue water with me.” There is no forced nostalgia here, no pretense.

And then there is Brooks’s voice. It’s not flashy or trying to prove something, but on the contrary is like someone who has been through enough to know what really matters. The arrangement mirrors that same restraint – lush but not overdone, layered but never heavy.

“Clear Blue Waters” is the kind of song that sticks with you and makes you want to get in the car, roll down the windows and just go.

About Brooks J Martin

Brooks J Martin is a singer-songwriter from Cedar Falls, Iowa, and is known for his introspective folk music, evocative lyricism, and lush, cinematic arrangements.

Over the years he has recorded under various monikers including Toast, The Blue Danes, and Frank Hansen. But his latest self-titled release marks a turning point – an unfiltered, deeply personal artistic statement.

Taking inspiration from legends like Woody Guthrie, Neil Young, and Leonard Cohen, Martin writes songs that favor mood over strict narrative, allowing listeners to find their own meaning within his impressionistic storytelling.

Stream Clear Blue Waters now on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.

Watch the video on YouTube for a stunning drive down the Pacific Coast.

01.22.25

by Jane Lambert

Sound Strider’s “Progress” Is a Furious Post-Industrial Reckoning

Few artists arrive with a debut single as unapologetically incendiary as Sound Strider’s “Progress”

A brutal takedown of late-stage capitalism wrapped in industrial beats and scathing lyricism, the track is really a manifesto. The lead single from his upcoming album entitled “Mechanical Animist“, “Progress” channels the existential dread of the 2020s into a relentless, dystopian groove that feels both timely and timeless.

Listen in here:

The track wastes no time setting its tone, opening with a mechanical, almost sarcastic list of capitalist rituals: “investment, testing, impressing the boss”, before plunging into a caustic critique of a system that equates expansion with erosion.

Over pounding percussion and hypnotic synth layers, Sound Strider methodically deconstructs the corporate machine, exposing the greed, environmental devastation, and dehumanization lurking beneath its polished surface. His lyricism is both surgical and seething as it dissects the absurdity of modern economic and political structures with the precision of a manifesto.

As the track progresses, its intensity only deepens. Mirroring the spiraling anxiety of an era where profit margins outweigh human well-being.

By the time Sound Strider reaches the track’s climax, a relentless chant of “F** progress,”* it’s clear that this is a cry against the hollow promises of unchecked technological advancement and a society that prioritizes perpetual growth over collective survival.

Vocally, Sound Strider oscillates between spoken-word venom and punk-adjacent fervor. His delivery reminiscent of the fiery urgency of Zack de la Rocha or the poetic rebellion of Saul Williams.

There are moments where his cadence feels almost hypnotic, as it drwas listeners into a trance-like meditation on their own complicity in the systems he critiques. Then, without warning, his voice explodes into raw frustration as it rips through the track with an immediacy that feels as much like a live protest as it does a studio recording.

“Progress” is a high-voltage blend of industrial, trip-hop, and experimental electronica, evoking echoes of Nine Inch Nails, Death Grips, and early Massive Attack. Production is razor-sharp, with each layer meticulously designed to create an atmosphere of tension and unease.

In an era where protest music often gets diluted for mass appeal, “Progress” refuses to compromise. It is raw, relentless, and absolutely essential listening.

Connect with Sound Strider:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud

01.13.25

by Jane Lambert

“Then You Fly” by Andrew Stonehome – a Soaring Triumph of Heart and Harmony

Andrew Stonehome’s brand new single release “Then You Fly” is a deeply personal and beautiful journey into the artist’s heart.

As a letter to his inner child, the song captures the fragility and strength that comes with confronting buried vulnerabilities. From the opening notes through to the soaring gospel choir finale, this track is certainly a moment of reckoning and redemption.

Listen to “Then You Fly” here:

The refrain, “I’m coming home,” is as much a mantra as it is a melody. Sung with understated yet powerful emotion, it invites the listener to reflect on their own moments of self-discovery. The gospel-inspired finale, featuring 50 individually recorded vocal parts, creates a wonderful euphoric crescendo that feels almost like a spiritual release.

About the song, Stonehome says:

“Every word in this song is a reflection of my heart and has a direct connection to what I’m experiencing in my life at this moment. This song is the one that I feel more connected to personally than any other song I’ve written. If people asked me to give one example of music that I’ve created, this is the song that I would share.

Writing this song was part of an emotional journey for me, forcing me to confront and express some of my deepest fears and challenges in their rawest form. The process of facing these personal struggles has been the driving force behind the creation, recording, and release of this song. When I recorded the vocals, the line “I’m coming home” instinctively felt like the perfect refrain to repeat at the end of the song. At the time, I couldn’t fully explain why those words resonated so deeply, but later, it all clicked.

I was listening to someone speak about self-compassion, and they described the act of finding peace with ourselves—of embracing our vulnerable, inner child—as “coming home.” In that moment, it all fell into place. Suddenly, the refrain became more than just a line in a song; it encapsulated the essence of everything the track was about.“

Production-wise, Then You Fly is both polished and organic. The drums, recorded at Vinegar Hill Studios in Brooklyn with Reed Black engineering, provide a really steady heartbeat while the other parts – crafted in Stonehome’s century-old home studio – brings warmth and intimacy. Every layer feels intentional, every note purposeful.

Stonehome’s acoustic version strips away the lush instrumentation, laying bare the raw emotion of the song. Featuring an evocative string arrangement by Pablo Hopenhayn and eSession Strings, the acoustic rendition is nothing short of breathtaking. The strings also add a cinematic quality, enhancing the song’s poignant narrative without overshadowing its simplicity.

Then You Fly solidifies Andrew Stonehome as an artist unafraid to wear his heart on his sleeve. It’s a song that tells its story, but also creates a space for listeners to feel seen and understood.

About Andrew Stonehome

Andrew Stonehome (Norwegian name “Stenehjem”) is a songwriter, singer, and multi-instrumentalist whose roots in North Dakota and current base in Beaverton, Oregon, inspire his music.

A few years ago, Andrew realized he was on a path that felt unhealthy and unfulfilling. Determined to change, he embarked on a journey of self-discovery by identifying his core values and reigniting his passion for music, which he had suppressed while adapting to adult life.

This creative rebirth has become the foundation of his music, reflecting his personal growth and dedication to authenticity.

Blending retro, catchy pop/rock with a variety of influences, Andrew’s sound captures the nostalgia of classic eras while staying fresh and relatable.

A true multi-instrumentalist, Andrew plays guitar, drums, bass, and piano, and often records and produces his music in his 104-year-old home. This historic setting lends a unique warmth and authenticity to his creations, reflecting his deep background in recording and production.

He made his mark in 2021 with his debut full-length album, which earned a spot on International Pop Overthrow’s Best Albums of 2021 (#13 out of 175).

He has also been featured on the Sweet, Sweet Music Blog and The Great American Folk Show, gaining recognition songwriting and storytelling.

Keep up to date with Andrew on his Website.

Stream music on Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.

12.18.24

by Jane Lambert

Animals In Denial Deliver Pulsing Industrial Rock with Single “Operator”

Animals in Denial’s new single “Operator” is an exploration into heartbreak, wrapped up in a gritty industrial-electronic sound.

The story behind “Operator” is as compelling as the song itself. The beat has been living in the artist Christian Imes’s head since they were 14, back when they were cruising the streets of Canton, NC, and obsessing over The Matrix.

At the time, they didn’t even have a synth – just a guitar and a lot of ideas. Years later, using a lite copy of Ableton Live and some old-school drum samples, the track finally started to take shape. It came together fast at first with the initial demo finished in just 30 minutes, but the final version was elevated thanks to a collaboration with industrial icon Steven Seibold (Hate Dept, Pigface).

Seibold’s fingerprints are all over the production. From tweaking the vocal delivery on the third verse to suggesting subtle backing harmonies in the chorus, he brought a fresh perspective to the track.

Listen here:

The pair even recorded the vocals in Seibold’s home studio, which was a full-circle moment for the artist, who’s been a longtime fan of Seibold’s work. The result is sleek and dynamic, with just the right amount of edge.

Musically, “Operator” is a study in restraint. An earlier version included guitar parts, but the final mix strips them away to let the synths and beats carry the weight. That choice gives the track a sharp, metallic vibe that feels perfectly in line with its themes of emotional distance and digital disconnect. The song pulses with a hypnotic rhythm, pulling you in as layers of sound build and shift. It’s dark, atmospheric, and relentlessly captivating.

But the heart of “Operator” are the lyrics, which draw from a relationship that left its mark. The “operator” in the song is a nod to late-night phone calls and AIM chats with an ex who once felt like a lifeline, but who eventually became a source of pain. It’s brutally honest and deeply relatable especially for anyone who’s navigated the murky waters of young love.

Whether drawn to its cyberpunk aesthetic, its honest lyrics, or its sheer force, this is definitely a song that grabs your attention.

Keep up to date with all things Animal In Denial on the Website.

12.13.24

by Jane Lambert

Thomas Michael Link Swings Into the Holiday Spirit with “I Can’t Wait for Christmas”

Thomas Michael Link’s “I Can’t Wait for Christmas” feels like it was made for that perfect holiday moment. Maybe, when you’re trimming the tree or sharing a warm drink with someone you love.

The track leans into big band nostalgia with a modern spark, blending jazzy brass, a lively rhythm section, and Link’s smooth baritone for a holiday tune that is fresh, catchy and brimming with the kind of joy that makes you want to hit repeat.

The horns pop, upbeat swing, the drums shuffle, and the bass keeps everything bouncing along, laying the foundation for Link’s charismatic vocal. There is a personal touch too – lines like “Every day is Christmas as long as I can hold you near” take the sentiment beyond the season, making the song as much about love as it is about sleigh bells and snowy nights.

The arrangement is where the magic really happens. Collaborating with Studio Pros, Link crafted a sound that’s as full and rich as your favorite holiday spread. The guitar solo, with its Wes Montgomery-style warmth, is a standout moment, while the female backing vocals, added late in the process, give the track a classic 1940s feel that ties it all together.

Link’s musical journey makes this track feel even more authentic. A self-described blender of music genres, he has spent years pulling together elements of rock, jazz, blues, and pop into his own unique sound.

Link says:

“”I Can’t Wait for Christmas” started out as just melody and a chorus and grew from there. I walked around humming it to myself as it grew, and it seemed to organically sprout lyrics inspired by the underlying idea of being in love at Christmas and having that feeling year-round. I was also conceptually inspired by some classic Christmas/holiday songs such as “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and that feeling that you never want the season to end.

He’s not one to stick to formulas, and “I Can’t Wait for Christmas” reflects that spirit of experimentation – it’s a big band tune at heart, with a modern energy that is fresh and inviting.

For fans of Michael Bublé, Harry Connick Jr., or even those old Bing Crosby records, this song has all the makings of a holiday favorite. It’s joyful, romantic, and just the right amount of over the top – a perfect soundtrack to the season’s best moments.

Make sure to save this to your holiday playlists now!

Stream “I Can’t Wait for Christmas” on Spotify here.

Find out more about Thomas Michael Link on his Website.

12.10.24

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.