by Jane Lambert

The Flip Phones Strike Gold with Whimsical Indie-Pop Gem “It’s a Sign”

With their effervescent new single, “It’s a Sign,” The Flip Phones have created an indie-pop delight brimming with charm, quirk, and an unexpected dose of introspection.

Inspired by Los Angeles’ iconic Happy Foot/Sad Foot sign – a whimsical podiatry advertisement once used by locals to divine their daily fortunes – the track explores the thin line between taking charge of our lives and surrendering to fate and superstition.

Listen in here:

The duo, Lindsey and Ryan, blend instrumental talent with an unpretentious energy to create a sound that feels as timeless as it is refreshing.

Lindsey’s background as a classically trained pianist and flutist shines through in the lush textures of melodica and electric piano that weave throughout the song. Her lyrical storytelling brims with vibrant imagery and clever wit, while Ryan’s self-taught guitar stylings, steeped in influences like The Beatles and Blur, add a jangly, upbeat undercurrent that grounds the song’s playful tone.

This isn’t the first time Lindsey and Ryan have made musical magic together. Their earlier collaboration in North of Canada laid the foundation for the unique synergy that defines The Flip Phones.

Since forming their new project in 2013, they’ve honed their craft, releasing the well-received EP Better in the Dark in 2022 and building a reputation for vibrant live shows at festivals and celebrated mid-Atlantic venues like Jammin Java and Songbyrd.

Produced by Dave Mallen at Innovation Station Music, “It’s a Sign” radiates the energy of their live performances, while also showcasing a shift toward a more playful sound palette.

Influences from the B-52s and Gorillaz are clear, with the melodica lending a whimsical edge, yet the track retains the narrative depth and layered arrangements that have become their signature.

As the lead single for their upcoming EP Spinning Adrift (set to drop in spring 2025), “It’s a Sign” is both an irresistible and thought-provoking anthem for those caught between luck and intention. With its buoyant melodies and clever interplay between Lindsey and Ryan’s vocals, this is indie-pop at its finest.

Connect with The Flip Phones:

Website / Facebook / Instagram / Spotify / Soundcloud / 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.

12.15.24

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyaguer: 3 Q’s with Sarah Pillow

Nestled just steps away from the dazzling lights of Times Square and the world-famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree, Hell’s Kitchen offers a striking contrast to Midtown Manhattan’s holiday frenzy.

It’s a neighborhood that pulses with history, resilience, and creativity – a vibrant mix of artists, shopkeepers, and locals who form the backbone of its enduring charm.

In her latest holiday single music video, “Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time,” Sarah Pillow and the team at Buckyball Music captures the spirit of this unique corner of New York City.

Part love letter, part festive celebration, the video is a heartfelt tribute to the small businesses, quiet streets, and resilient community that make Hell’s Kitchen feel like home. Even as the chaos of the holidays unfolds just a few blocks away.

With playful nods to iconic New York traditions, from the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the glittering Fifth Avenue window displays, the video weaves together a narrative that celebrates both the hustle and the haven that define Hell’s Kitchen. Featuring a talented ensemble of musicians, actors, and local shopkeepers, it’s a project that shines a light on the people and places that keep the neighborhood alive.

Watch here:

We asked Sarah to tell us about the inspiration behind the song, the challenges of filming in the heart of Manhattan, and why shopping locally is more important than ever during the holiday season.

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

I’ve lived in Hell’s Kitchen since 1996, and while the neighborhood has evolved over the years, it has managed to retain its unique charm. I was reading about how local businesses are struggling due to reduced foot traffic as more people turn to online shopping.

This inspired us to create a fun holiday video celebrating our neighborhood – the artists, the community, and the small businesses that make it special.

The holidays are an especially meaningful time here, as we’re right next door to one of the busiest places in the world during this season.

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

We were inspired by the juxtaposition of our quiet neighborhood nestled right next to Times Square – the center of the world, especially during the holidays – which led to the lyric, “you’re in it all, but off to the side.”

The storyline follows me navigating the chaos of Midtown Manhattan – Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Saks – while also highlighting the anchors of my neighborhood: Hudson River Park, Restaurant Row, and long-standing local businesses that have been part of the community for decades.

It’s a celebration of their resilience and enduring spirit.

3.What was the process of making the video?

We invited some actor friends to play the roles of crazy holiday shoppers and collaborated with our colleague Eliane Amherd – also a Hell’s Kitchen local – to play guitar and sing with me. For the horn section, we enlisted three excellent horn players who were students at the time (one has since joined the band of Saturday Night Live). The marching at the beginning of the video is a nod to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

We visited some of our favorite local businesses and asked if they’d like to participate, celebrating the importance of shopping locally.

We also wanted to feature the musicians, highlighting the artists and performers who make New York City so vibrant. Filming took place in our studio, along the West Side Highway, driving through the streets of Hell’s Kitchen, on our rooftop, and even in front of Saks Fifth Avenue (who were surprisingly cool about it). To add to the festive spirit, we included Manhattan holiday window displays in one segment of the song.

Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time

Sarah Pillow, vocals

Marc Wagnon, drums, percussion and vibraphone.

Eliane Amherd, guitar and vocals

Summer Camargo, trumpet

Coby Petricone-Berg, alto sax

Cole Palensky, tenor sax

Jonathan Price, bass

Holiday Shoppers:

Carol Scudder

Robert Arthur Altman

Justin Anderson Taylor

Thank you to these Hell’s Kitchen shopkeepers:

Garden Hardware, 10^th Avenue

Westside Animal Hospital, 10^th Avenue

Poseidon Bakery, 9^th Avenue

Sullivan Street Bakery, West 47^th Street

Thriftway Pharmacy, 10^th Avenue

Spoiled Brats, West 49^th Street

Fine and Dandy, West 49^th Street

Ismael Cruz, West 49^th Street Caretaker

Skyline Deli, 10^th Avenue

Find out more about Sarah Pillow on her 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.

12.06.24

by Jane Lambert

“Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” – A Soulful Holiday Tribute to New York City

“Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” is a vivid and vibrant musical journey that celebrates the spirit of a New York neighborhood steeped in history and transformation.

Co-written by Sarah Pillow and Marc Wagnon, the track marries Pillow’s evocative, rich and genre defying vocals with Wagnon’s rhythms and textures, creating a holiday song that perfectly captures the magic of Hell’s Kitchen during this busy season.

Listen in here:

Sarah Pillow’s voice is the star of the song here. She offers a stunning blend of jazz sophistication, classical finesse and rich warmth. Her vocal delivery feels more like a conversation and draws the listener into her world that she paints with her words.

Pillow’s decades long connection to Hell’s Kitchen, where she has lived for nearly 30 years, imbues this song with an authentic edge. Her nuanced performance speaks of a deep love for the neighbourhood with each lyric having a personal touch.

Marc Wagnon’s arrangement brings this love letter to life with a rich, layered instrumental palette: the vibraphone glistens like freshly fallen snow, while his percussion adds a dynamic pulse that reflects the neighborhood’s ever-moving rhythm.

The brass section featuring Summer Camargo (trumpet), Coby Petricone-Berg (alto sax), and Cole Palensky (tenor sax) really infuses the song with warmth and vibrancy, echoing the bustling energy of Manhattan’s streets.

Eliane Amherd’s guitar provides a melodic anchor and balances the richness of the brass with a steady, grounding groove, while Jonathan Price’s bass ties it all together with depth.

The song’s lyrics are as much about Hell’s Kitchen as they are about the essence of the holidays. They capture the duality of the neighborhood: the electric buzz of midtown Manhattan softened by the quieter charm of brownstones adorned with festive lights and local cafes humming with life. It’s a place where the pulse of New York City merges with the heart of a close-knit community.

Lines like “in it all, but off to the side” speak to the unique identity of Hell’s Kitchen – a neighborhood that is part of the city’s relentless energy that retains its own quiet magic.

But where “Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” transcends the typical holiday song is by offering a deeper narrative. It’s not just about twinkling lights or festive cheer – it’s about the people, the stories, and the ambience that make a neighborhood feel like home. The song reflects on the enduring spirit of Hell’s Kitchen, a place that has weathered decades of change while holding onto its identity.

You can almost see the snow-dusted streets, hear the muffled conversations in cozy cafés, and feel the unique warmth of a neighborhood that welcomes everyone.

“Hell’s Kitchen at Christmas Time” is a celebration of place, and a reminder of what makes the holidays special: community, tradition, and the ability to find wonder even in the most familiar corners.

About Sarah Pillow

Sarah Pillow is a vocalist celebrated for her extraordinary versatility, blending jazz, classical, and early music influences into a style uniquely her own.

A graduate of Oberlin College’s prestigious music program, Sarah began her career as a jazz singer and quickly expanded her repertoire, performing as a solo artist and collaborating with renowned ensembles across the United States and Canada. Her projects include a jazz quartet, the crossover ensemble Nuove Musiche, and the early music group Galileo’s Daughters.

Her distinctive voice – rich and vivid, praised by The Washington Post as “genuinely genre-busting” – has graced the stages of legendary venues like the Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. Whether delivering an operatic aria or interpreting a jazz standard, she captivates audiences with her emotional depth and technical brilliance.

For nearly 30 years, Sarah has called Hell’s Kitchen home. This iconic New York City neighborhood is steeped in history and creativity and has been a profound source of inspiration for her work. From its roots as a gritty, working-class enclave to its evolution into a vibrant cultural hub, Hell’s Kitchen embodies the energy that Sarah channels into her music.

Sarah Pillow continues to redefine what it means to be an artist. Her work is a celebration of connection – between past and present, tradition and innovation, and the universal language of music.

Connect with Sarah Pillow here.

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

10.29.24

by Jane Lambert

Stephen Jaymes’s New Single “The Evidence Against Her” Speaks to the Psyche of Today

Stephen Jaymes continues to impress with his mysterious new single, “The Evidence Against Her“, a thought provoking exploration of inner turmoil and spiritual conflict.

In this brand new single, Jaymes goes deep into the murky and mysterious waters of Jungian psychology, exploring the relationship between a man and his anima – the feminine aspect of his psyche who seems to have turned against him.

The track has an eerie ambience with its stormy instrumentals which build tension, and the inclusion of a chorus without words adds to this overall atmosphere. The listener is drawn into the depths of both dread, impending doom, and beauty.

Listen in here:

While Jaymes is building a name for himself with his unique blend of punk and new wave, you also find some folk influences all of which work together to create something entirely unique.

The other thing about Jaymes’s songs is that the lyrics actually mean something. Something beyond the usual theme of the day, something that goes deeper and speaks to the psyche of the modern day. The uncertainty, the turmoil, the darker side of things if you like.

“The Evidence Against Her” takes a long and hard look at the importance of maintaining a sense of harmony with one’s spiritual muse, or could you say “higher self”, in the midst of so much adversity. These factors combine to make his music something memorable.

“The evidence against her, laps at the window and doors, Every day there’s more of it, It’s pooling up through the floors, And suddenly I’m drifting, On a sea so vast, No wind and no sail, No way to make love last. But I refuse to dive in. Though it says it will save my soul. I know the evidence against her. Hides a deadly undertow. Is it better to be rescued. Or to drown in sight of land. When to see you captured. Is the fate that she had planned?”

The accompanying music video takes these themes further, portraying Jaymes as a figure adrift at sea who is grappling with his internal struggles. A striking visual presence, complete with curly mohawk, reinforces the song’s message.

The Evidence Against Her not only marks a significant addition to Jaymes’s growing discography but also serves as a sort of thematic companion to his earlier single “Chief Inspector“. Both songs delve into Jungian concepts, reflecting on the battles between the self and the unconscious.

But this song is also an eerie reminder that, whether we are aware of it or not, we are all able to explore how we have reached this new world we are in.

Listen to “The Evidence Against Her” on Spotify now!

Keep up to date with Stephen Jaymes:

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