by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH GEORGE COLLINS

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George Collins is a multi-faceted artist whose music, writing, and creative endeavours reflect a life rich with experience and inspiration.

Hailing from Washington D.C., and now based in Prague, Collins has embarked on a musical journey that transcends traditional boundaries as he blends classic rock influences with contemporary themes.

Collins recently released his latest single, “Saving the Best for Last,” a standout track from the eagerly anticipated EP, “Songs for Grown-ups” set to be released this summer. This song serves as a powerful, upbeat anthem about the beauty and potential of aging inspired by musical legends such as George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison, and Neil Diamond. Wrapping up the EP’s themes, it reflects on the passage of time and the wisdom gained through life’s experiences.

In this interview, Collins delves into the story behind “Saving the Best for Last.” He believes in the possibility of achieving one’s best work at any age, a sentiment that is passionately conveyed through his music.

We also explore the creative process behind the song’s captivating video, crafted by the talented Marta Vorontsova. Utilizing stock footage, AI images, and animation, the video beautifully illustrates the song’s themes and Collins’ vision. From conceptual discussions to iterative feedback, Collins describes how this collaboration brought his ideas to life in a visually stunning manner.

The official lyric video for “Saving the Best for Last” by George Collins is now available on YouTube here:

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

This was the last tune written for my second EP, “Songs for Grown-ups,” and I knew I wanted to end this collection with a positive, upbeat, exuberant anthem about getting better with age.

For this song I was inspired by the work of George Harrison, Bruce Springsteen, Van Morrison and Neil Diamond.

The song summarizes the themes explored in the previous tracks of the EP and reaches the hopeful conclusion that, as I continue getting older and enter a new phase of existence, I can bring all the lessons I’ve learned to bear to create a fulfilling and joyful later stage of life.

I have always believed that, no matter my age, my best days and best work lie ahead of me – and this song attempts to express that belief.

I have also been inspired by iconic artists who did some of their greatest work in their later years such as Bach, Beethoven, Yeats, Eliot, Monet, Matisse and Picasso – masters who can serve as models for us all by fusing youthful energy and passion with the wisdom and perspective of age.

Plus, the track absolutely rocks and is loaded with hooks, including a 1970s-style modulation to emphasize the “surprise” in the lyrics – one doesn’t hear many such modulations these days!

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

There were several key images I knew I wanted to focus on in the video to illustrate the themes of the song: confusing maps and road signs (“Figure out the way that I should go”), climbing mountains and overcoming other difficulties (“But I never lost faith in me and all that I could be”), couples working their way through difficulties (“It’s taken us a while to learn to smile”), older men finishing a race and winning trophies (“Here I am, better than ever”), older couples deeply in love and enjoying their Golden Years (“We’re gonna have fun in the days to come”), just to name a few.

3. What was the process of making this video?

I worked with an extremely talented artist named Marta Vorontsova (Instagram: @_imagikali_), who is specialized in creating music videos using stock footage, AI images, and animation techniques. She has produced many videos for me, which are all available on my YouTube channel (@GeorgeCollinsBand), and each one is unique. We had long discussions about the song and my wishes for the video, then she vastly improved on my original ideas with her brilliant, skillful and imaginative visual presentation. It was an iterative process: She would send me a draft, I would send her my comments, then back and forth until we got it just right and we were both happy with the results. “Saving the Best for Last” is an extremely important song for me, and I love how the video captures and beautifully expresses the deeply personal yet universal themes of this exuberant, inspiring song.

Connect with George Collins here:

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

07.01.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’s WITH RAY LEVIER

Ray Levier is a multi faceted drummer, composer, and music producer, and has once again captivated audiences with the release of his new music video for “Uncharted Destiny.”

Known for his precision and versatility across jazz fusion, rock, hip-hop, and singer-songwriter styles, Ray’s latest offering shows unique vision and real artistic creativity.

Inspired by the story of a retired Air Force commander who, after narrowly surviving a near-fatal test flight crash, undergoes a biochemical fusion with an alien spacecraft called “Uncharted Destiny”. The commander’s transformation leads to an epic journey that reveals his true identity and connects him with an alien civilization at the edge of the universe, reflecting Ray’s own exploration of new beginnings and the interconnections of life.

The music video is truly epic and one of a kind, taking viewers far beyond the usual music video sphere into an experience that is completely out of this world. Ethereal and imbued with a spiritual component, it challenges viewers to contemplate what else could be out there in the vastness of the universe.

Created by Ray Levier, with sound design by Ray Levier, Frani Lugo, Mike Dwyer, and Leslie Bloome, the cast features Ray Levier as Commander Ray, David Kopec as Brass, Frani Lugo as Tech, and Zenji the Dog as himself. The musicians include Ray Levier on drums, vibraphones, keyboard synthesizers, lead and backing vocals, Richard Tozzoli on guitars and E-harp, and Tim Lefebvre on bass.

The Audio production was done by RSL Production Studio, The Clubhouse, and Alchemy Post Sound, with audio mix by Mike Dwyer and Neil Dorfsman. Conceptual and environmental design was handled by Frani Lugo and Ray Levier, while cinematography, CGI, graphics, editing, storyboarding, and illustrations were all done by Frani Lugo.

The official video for “Unchartered Destiny” by Ray Levier is now available on Ray’s official YouTube Channel HERE:

We caught up with Ray to talk about the music video to accompany this brand new single release!

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

I came up with the concept during Covid when everybody was sheltering in place and it seemed such a lonely time for me and so many others. It kept reminding me of the loneliness and emptiness of space and being alone for extended periods of time without anyone around. The positive side of the story reflects my accident and that there is always hope after a tragedy.

Just when you think you’re at Rock bottom and your life is over then something magical and beautiful appears unexpectedly. This is always been my thought process to stay positive after my accident being burned in a fire at a young age.

Turning tragedy into triumph, is something I knew I must do if I wanted to heal and be healthy as an individual to keep my spirit intact.

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

The inspiration of this video comes from a story I wrote about a man who is part alien but doesn’t realize it until the end of the video.

He is summoned to the other end of the galaxy to take his place as ruler of an alien civilization. There’s a whole backstory I’m working on with a screenplay that explains the journey in greater detail. So stay tuned for that.

3. What was the process of making this video?

The process of making this video was done with CGI (computer generated imagery) and shooting video with a green screen. We would shoot with green screen, then add all the CGI later to create the scene. Frani Lugo is the genius behind taking all my ideas and bringing them to life through this process.

It took us almost 3 years to create this as he was just one man taking on this monumental task. Normally there’s hundreds of people creating individual scenes working within the CGI realm. He pulled it off with amazing skill. He created everything you see on screen. There was no AI used in any of this. Just pure artistic genius on his part.

I hope the viewers enjoy the video and can take something away from it in regards to their own personal journey.

Listen to “Uncharted Destiny” on Spotify now!

Connect with Ray Levier:

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

06.28.24

by Jane Lambert

From Mixtapes to Main Stage – Feez Da Popstar releases Summer Hit “Its the Summer”!

Feez Da Popstar, the vibrant alter-ego of DJ Jay Faire, is back to set the summer on fire with his latest hit, “It’s the Summer”!

From the energetic streets of New York’s 914 area code, Feez Da Popstar has transitioned from an acclaimed DJ to electrifying performer, blending hip hop and EDM pop into an irresistible mix.

Check out the new single here:

“It’s the Summer” is a perfect seasonal anthem, bursting with infectious beats and energy. The single shows Feez Da Popstar’s impressive range and his talent for creating tunes that take off on a global scale. With catchy hooks and driving rhythms, “It’s the Summer” invites everyone to bask in the carefree joy of sun filled days and endless summer nights.

It’s fun, joyful, and reminds us to relax and enjoy every minute we have.

Feez Da Popstar’s rise to prominence has been boosted by collaborations with top industry names like Lil Wayne, Chris Brown, and Tiesto, solidifying his status as a major player in the music scene. His previous hits, “Fly Away” and “Take Me Home” have gained a widespread acclaim.

Starting out as a DJ crafting mixtapes in the heart of NYC, Feez Da Popstar gained global exposure by infusing fun into my sets. Traveling worldwide, he witnessed firsthand how his music ignited the club atmosphere, sparking a desire to create his own music:

“It became clear that to convey emotions through music, I had to step into the spotlight as an artist.”

Thus, Feez Da Popstar was born—an alter ego dedicated to channeling his passion into creating vibrant, unforgettable music experiences:

“Seeing the clubs react to my sets and the music I would play led to me wanting to actually create music for others. After that I realized in order to translate what I felt in music I had to make and create and be the artist myself.”

This track is already making waves and is set to become a staple on party playlists and summer soundtracks.

Feez Da Popstar’s unique fusion of hip hop and EDM pop results in a sound that’s both captivating and irresistible, ensuring listeners will be dancing and singing along all season long!

Listen to “It’s the Summer” on Spotify.

Follow Feez Da Popstar:

Instagram // X // Spotify // Soundcloud // Apple Music // YouTube Music

06.24.24

by Jane Lambert

VIDEO VOYAGEUR: 3 Q’S WITH MARLA LEWIS

New Jersey’s Marla Lewis is currently captivating listeners worldwide with her latest single, “Te Quiero a Ti.”

This mesmerizing new track, offered in both Spanish and English, showcases Marla’s exquisite bossa nova-inspired vocals, which are perfectly complemented by a rich and sophisticated arrangement.

The song features a lush ensemble of flute, piano, acoustic bass, electric guitar, drums, and backing vocals. The result is an evocative experience that captures the soul of romance, some vulnerability, and the carefree spirit of a holiday with its warm melodious embrace.

Marla has a very diverse set of influences in her music, including Ella Fitzgerald and The Beatles, and she has carved a unique path for herself bringing elements of big band, global folk music and smooth jazz together. A 25 year old tenure as an elementary school teacher ignited her passion for creating fun, educational and engaging songs for children, leading to accolades like featuring on the Grammy award winning album “All About Bullies … Big and Small” with her song “Leap of Faith.”

Transitioning into smooth jazz and American standards, Marla’s recent releases have captivated a global audience, including her latest hit “Te Quiero a Ti,” which has soared with much acclaim on indie music charts.

We caught up with Marla to discuss the music video to accompany her new single release, “Te Quiero A Ti.” The video was created by the talented Melissa Sanley.

Watch and share the Official “Te Quiero a Ti” music video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S-7vghk7_7A

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

This is the story about how you feel when pure love appears in your life, when you find someone who loves you the way you are, and makes you feel as one with every step you take. One look into each other’s eyes and you can see how you have met your match.

I visualized the video with this beautiful feeling in mind, to empower this marvelous song.

2. What inspired this video (visuals, storyline, etc.)?

This video shows different couples from all cultures having the same experience of deep love.

I aimed to awaken this feeling in all who watch it.

3. What was the process of making this video?

Like with any song, you need absorb yourself in it, choosing the exact image for every phrase, taking the all the time you need, and putting in all your love for the best result.

The first draft of the video had too many people of the same race and culture; it wasn’t until a friend commented on this that I revised it and made it for all the world.

Listen to “Te Quiero a Ti” on Spotify now!

Connect with Marla Lewis: Website. // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter // Spotify // Soundcloud // YouTube Music.

06.21.24

by Jane Lambert

Professional Drummer Rey Levier Drops Exciting New Single “Uncharted Destiny”

Ray Levier, the drumming maestro known for his genre-hopping abilities has recently released his new single “Uncharted Destiny.”

This track is a masterclass in rhythmic complexity and melodic emotion and perfectly demonstrates Ray’s unparalleled versatility and skill.

“Uncharted Destiny” takes listeners on a vivid musical journey, with dynamic chord shifts and compelling rhythmic progressions, this track shows a deep understanding of various musical styles. Ray’s precision in bashing out rock beats with panache, finessing jazz fusion grooves, swinging with a jazz combo, and laying down rugged hip hop beats is all evident in this single.

Ray describes “Uncharted Destiny” as a voyage of self-discovery amidst the vastness of the universe, finding strength in adversity as well as forging new paths:

“This song is about embracing the unknown, discovering our true selves, and finding strength in adversity. I poured my heart into this track, and I hope it inspires and resonates with you as much as it has with me.”

This theme resonates deeply with his own life story. Born into a family of musicians, Ray discovered his passion for drumming early on. However, it was a devastating fire accident at age 12 that left him with severe burns and the loss of most of his fingers. Despite this, his determination and ingenuity led him to devise unique ways to drum, first using duct tape, then a special martial arts glove, and eventually a surgery that granted him the use of his thumb. His journey from overcoming personal challenges to reaching professional heights is nothing short of inspiring.

Ray’s extensive career spans everything from live performances and teaching to composing for top TV networks like TLC, Discovery, and FOX Sports. Operating out of his cutting-edge studio near Manhattan, Ray’s influence in the music industry is undeniable. He has composed music for major networks, conducted live drum sessions, and collaborated with jazz fusion legends such as Mike Stern and John Abercrombie. His versatility is also highlighted by his long-standing role as the reliable sideman to urban folk and jazz artist KJ Denhert.

In addition to his performance career, Ray has also made significant contributions as a teacher and clinician. His rigorous study combined with insights from his personal experiences allows him to connect deeply with his students. He uses technology to reach students worldwide and conducts clinics for the manufacturers whose products he endorses, such as Yamaha, Paiste, Vater, and Evans.

His 2009 album “Ray’s Way” brought together jazz fusion greats, offering a satisfying collection of jazz fusion with telepathic musical synergy. His 2018 release “Lost and Found” highlighted his soulful vocals and poignant lyrics within a pop-rock context, drawing influences from classic rock, 1980s new wave, and alternative rock.

“Uncharted Destiny” is something of a bold statement of Ray’s enduring passion and relentless innovation in music, serving as a powerful reminder of the possibilities which exist from dedication and hard work.

Listen to “Uncharted Destiny” here.

Connect with Ray Levier:

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

06.15.24

by Jane Lambert

“Crash Course Vol. 2: Tickets To Dreamland” – A Deep Dive into Animals In Denial’s Revolutionary Sound

Christian Imes, the mastermind behind Animals In Denial, epitomizes the transformative power of music in both personal and artistic realms.

Through his candid revelations, it’s clear that music is more than just a career for Imes. It is a lifeline, a profound means of communication, and a canvas for expressing the depths of his soul.

The evolution of his song “Inside of Me” from a love song to a dedication to music itself underscores his deep connection to his art, using music to articulate emotions that words alone cannot capture.

Imes’s journey is marked by the unique way he uses music to communicate, likening himself to BumbleBee from Transformers, expressing emotions through melodies and lyrics rather than spoken words. This approach has not only defined his relationships but also helped him navigate complex emotional landscapes, as seen in his poignant interactions with his mother through songs like “Disarm.” Music has been his voice, his therapist, and his saving grace, especially as someone on the spectrum who finds verbal communication challenging.

In the brand new album, “Crash Course Volume 2: Tickets To Dreamland”, Animals In Denial takes the unique sound to new heights.

Embracing technology, Imes integrates AI into his music production process, viewing it as an invaluable tool rather than a threat. His innovative use of AI for mixing, mastering, and even generating musical ideas shows his forward-thinking approach, proving that technology can enhance creativity rather than hinder it. This pragmatic view of AI as a team member has streamlined his production process allowing him to achieve a polished and professional sound more efficiently.

Drawing inspiration from iconic bands like Nine Inch Nails, Depeche Mode, and Smashing Pumpkins, Imes has meticulously crafted a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. His music embodies the self-sufficiency and innovative spirit he admires in these bands, from using drum machines unapologetically to creating dynamic guitar-driven compositions. This deep dive into their work has not only shaped his musical style but also fueled his passion to inspire others through his creations.

“The way I integrate it is to keep it natural and to treat it like a member of the team. I have used it for all of the cover art for the Revisited Series, as well as mixing and mastering for this series of releases. I tend to start with a base mix and have the AI take a listen and make suggestions. It’s really like having mixing and mastering engineers in the room with me from demo to finished product. It has made finishing much faster and we don’t have to take 15 mixes out to the car to check only to still not be happy. It tends to be only one or two mixes now and mostly being the first round through the AI. I have just recently started letting AI suggest a part for a song. So, I’ll have it generate a base beat, or a bass line and/or drone type of texture. I may elect to tweak it or add to it, but it’s something to trigger a response from me. I’ll then just build and build like I do with anything else. I would do this same kind of thing with a Kaos pad, or a sequence on a synthesizer. It’s really not so different from hiring a session musician to play something you’re directing them to play, as you can also direct the AI to play as you want it to.“

As the newest entry in their “Revisited” series, “the album “Tickets to Dreamland” immerses its listeners in a rich and layered musical sound that melds hypnotic melodies with innovative production techniques. Sophisticated mixing which makes use of dynamic shifts in volume and texture, creates an engaging listening experience. Tracks “Inside of Me” and “No Enemy” epitomize this approach, balancing intensity with subtlety and captivating listeners with their intricate soundscapes.

Imes’ own songwriting journey began with personal experiences, evolving from tales of past relationships to exploring a myriad of subjects that affect and intrigue him. This fearless exploration into various themes has allowed him to write over 100 songs, each reflecting a piece of his life and thoughts.

Collaboration has also played a crucial role; his long-standing friendship and collaboration with Steven Seibold of Hate Dept and Pigface shows his willingness to learn and grow from his peers. This partnership has not only enhanced his production skills but also opened new creative avenues, blending industrial sounds with diverse musical elements.

Looking ahead, Imes remains committed to keep developing his music with a distinct approach. With plans to release more music through the Revisited series and new projects, his creative journey is far from over. His dedication to reviving live performances, despite logistical challenges, underscores his passion for connecting with audiences directly. Additionally, his side projects, MOD CON and The Search Merchants, Imes enjoys exploring diverse genres.

Keep up to date with Animals in Denial here:

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