Category Archives: Uncategorized

12.16.15
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Delta Deep Ushers in the Holiday Spirit

delta deep

Delta Deep comes to us today with a blues infused brand for rock n’ roll (and a dash of soul!) just in time for the Christmas season. Headed by Phil Collen of Def Leppard, he has brought together the phenomenal talents of Rob DeLeo (bassist/Stone Temple Pilots), Forrest Robinson (drummer/TLC, India.Arie, Engelbert Humperdinck) and Debbi Blackwell-Cook (former background singer for Michael Buble & Gregory Hines).  Together the accolades of the band members are legendary. Combined the members of Delta Deep have sold over 100 million albums, won Grammys, Diamond awards and American Music Awards and everything in between. Can we say supergroup?

Earlier this year, the group had released their full length, self-titled debut, and now are sharing their infectious holiday single, “Take Me Home for Christmas.” The song can bring out the holiday spirit even in the Grinch. With intertwined Blues hooks, Collen and co. bring the piece to life.

The sultry piece features Blackwell-Cook’s seductive and intricate voice, brought to life by driving instruments and subtle yet prominent backing vocals from the rest of the group. As bluesy guitar notes surround her voice, the band offer a unique take on holiday music, and spreads the cheer.

Delta Deep heads out on tour in January, so be sure to keep an eye out!
Watch & Listen:”Take Me Home For Christmas”: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B0QeVonupfI

Delta Deep on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deltadeepblues?fref=ts

Delta Deep Website: www.deltadeep.net

12.15.15
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Amanda Lamb Brings a Little Bit Country

amandalamb (2)

Amanda Lamb is a rising artist that hails from California. Her latest release, We Dance We Run, is a charming EP that is filled with country vibes, and a slight hint of twang to boot. Lamb’s talent for storytelling comes to life in the new record, as she bares her soul to the world. Her heaven-sent voice is familiar yet unique, making the record feel like home. The range of emotion throughout the album is fitting with her charming instrumentation placed within each song.

“Barefoot,” her new single, is the perfect introduction to the musical world of Amanda Lamb. Recorded with acclaimed producer, Dave Tough, who has worked with Dolly Parton, Lamb took to Tennessee for the record; finding herself completely at home and in her element. She shares secrets, she celebrates joy, and brings the whole record to life.

Recently she has also released a video for her lead single, “Barefoot” which you can watch below.

Watch Amanda Lamb “Barefoot”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mrfiKqiuQ84&feature=youtu.be

12.15.15
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Introducing the Danceworthy Sounds of ZAZA

zaza

Zaza is a rising artist who currently calls California home. Originally hailing from Kazakhstan, the urban pop princess brings a dose of originality to a big dance sound. Her eclectic music embodies her fashion and dance sensibilities showing her flare for modern pop music.

Often she is compared to such high-profile artists such as Kanye West, Rihanna and Chris Brown; but with her own unique twist. Her brilliant vocals add to the rhythmic instrumentation that brings her tracks to life. Recently she is sharing the pieces “Fashion Girl,” alongside other crowd pleasers that will entice your musical palette. This is only the beginning, as it seems Zaza has a trick up her sleeve for the new year.

Listen: Zaza “Fashion Girl”

 

11.11.15
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EL VY Proves to Be More Than Just a Side Project, with Debut Release, “Return to the Moon”

el vy

The much buzzed about EL VY creates an inspiring album, Return to the Moon, out now via 4AD. Consisting mainly of Matt Berninger of The National and Brent Knopf of Ramona Falls/Menomena, what the duo creates is something honest, heartfelt, and truly unique.

Like when all high profiled musicians break off from their main band, there seems to be a bit of a back and forth skeptical reaction that travels throughout the internet. I believe it was in Pitchfork that I had read a blurb stating that Berninger and Knopf were “incompatible” as musicians. To be honest, yes, they kind of are incompatible as musicians; but on the bright side, that is exactly what makes this combination work well.

The first two singles shined light on the blending of two parties; first with “Return to the Moon (Political Song for Didi Bloome to Sing, with Crescendo)” and the follow up “I’m the Man to Be.” The first singles were definitely a departure from Berninger’s deep and heavy sounds of The National, but it allowed us to see a more upbeat version of what he has to offer. Knopf on the other hand, brings a stunning element of instrumentation to the table that sometimes provides a lively vibe, and other times, a haunting and unusual sound. The mixture of these elements seem to work completely, as they weave throughout each track of the record.

The biggest misconception that a listener can have going into this, is that it’s going to sound like a “National” record. It’s not. Then Berninger would just be working on National songs right now (Right? Right.). What would be the point? The voice is there, but the content isn’t always as heavy. You’re going to dance, you’re still going to get depressed as hell, and you are going to love every moment of it.

Releasing a series of lyric videos directed by the multi-talented Tom Berninger, it provides multiple songs with an intimate look to capture your attention even more. Tracks such as “Happiness Missouri” bring a haunting, yet determined sound into play, while harmonies fill the album in pieces such as “Silent Ivy Hotel,” or the chilling musicianship of “Paul is Alive.” Songs such as “No Time to Crank the Sun,” offers up Matt’s signature delicate crooning, as “Need a Friend,” shares a more vibrant sound, that brings Knopf’s intricate brand of musicianship to the table. Together they create a truly special musical experience within Return to the Moon.

Each piece on the record is strong enough to stand on their own, which is perhaps why the group decided to release a track one at a time leading into the record. Return to the Moon is perhaps the finest record of 2015; mark my word.

EL VY is currently on tour, recently kicking off their Eastern U.S. dates, with two stops in New York. Friday at Bowery Ballroom, and Saturday at Music Hall of Williamsburg. See you there kids.

11.11.15
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Macklemore & Ryan Lewis Bring “Downtown” to Life; and Get Eric Nally Out of Hiding

macklemore

As many know I’m not a fan of Pop-esque music. It has to strike me pretty hard to attract my attention in any shape or form; and rarely does it ever. I know I am about 10,000 years late to the party that is Macklemore and Ryan Lewis, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t 110% intrigued by their latest single, “Downtown.” It’s good; I mean really good.

Not only does it feature some of rap’s greatest MCs, but to boot it brought back to life Eric Nally of Foxy Shazam fame (who I had interviewed years ago for Greenshoelace.com ), which up until recently, I could never understand how they never really caught on. They were successful in indie circles, but even then, they never fully received the attention they deserved. Also I kind of love the fact that most people think Eric is in costume, but really, no, that’s his usual attire (for live shows at least). Remember when he used to eat cigarettes on stage? Yes, that.

Getting back to my main point, I love the fact that Macklemore and Ryan Lewis are being successful on their own terms, and keeping completely true to themselves. It really brings in another level of artist intimacy because there isn’t that label middleman. Everything that they put out is them, whether you like it or not. “Downtown,” is the perfect example of an artist unleashing their heart and soul into the music. Musically and marketing wise it’s genius; and to be honest, one hell of a song.

 

11.10.15
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RESH: Brings Video for “BOYS CRY MORE” to Life

RESH

RESH is breaking boundaries with his unique and eclectic brand of Pop music. Recently releasing his album debut, Babies Out, currently he is sharing the latest video for “Boys Cry More.” The theatrical video is the first look into the world of RESH, and right from the start you will find yourself in for a ride.

WATCH “BOYS CRY MORE”
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ARll3CAnvs

“RESH came alone. I was trying to find a name I was connected to. I just didn’t want to use my real name for my music. I wanted something more impactful. Something I felt connected to. It came in a dream. I woke up on a day knowing I wanted to be named RESH. I always liked the idea of me being theone deciding what my name was going to be. It’s empowering,” states RESH.

His new single, “Boys Cry More,” picks up a vibrant energy and really lets listeners into the mind of RESH. His eccentric pop vocals are intertwined with incredible pop sensibility that will have you eager for more. The video for “Boys Cry More,” is skillfully crafted with intricate choreography from an array of dancers, and a whole lot of musical attitude.