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.

01.09.25

by Jane Lambert

Finding Movement in the Stillness in Stephen Jaymes’s Latest Single “Stranded”

Stephen Jaymes returns with a brand new single out called “Stranded.”

In this single Jaymes turns the everyday experience of feeling stuck into a song for real reflection. As he is known for his poeticism and folk punk sensibilities, Jaymes once again delivers a song that captures the universal tension of being ready to move forward but held in place.

Listen in here:

The song opens with a delicate glockenspiel. As layers of acoustic and electric instrumentation build, a driving rhythm emerges, which mirrors the restless energy that inspires the song. J

Jaymes’s unmistakable voice anchors the track, as he captures a sense of vulnerability and determination. The vocal delivery makes the listener feel as though they are sharing a collective moment of realization.

But it’s the lyrics that are so striking; “Stranded” is packed with clever observations and truths with Jaymes able to turn stagnation into something touching as he explores the act of waiting not as wasted time but as an opportunity to find meaning.

While the mood feels overall light hearted on the surface, there is a lingering depth and a reminder of the strange beauty in life’s pauses. The track doesn’t offer easy solutions of empty optimism, yet it does acknowledge the frustration while urging the listener to embrace the rhythm of running in place.

“Stranded” feels more like a conversation, a shared laugh, and a comforting hand on the shoulder. A reminder perhaps that the act of staying still can be its own kind of progress.

Keep up with Stephen Jaymes on his Website.

01.09.25

by Jane Lambert

Nicki Richards Captures Timeless Beauty with “You Become More Beautiful”

Nicki Richards’s latest single, “You Become More Beautiful” is a transcendent ode to love, gratitude and the quiet moments that leave a lasting impression on the heart.

Released just before the holiday season at the end of last year, the track is a really lush R&B ballad that wraps listeners in a warm embrace.

The origin of the song is as poignant as the track itself. While driving through the sunny streets of Florida with her mother, Nicki found herself enveloped in a moment of pure contentment and connection.

Inspired by the soft glow of sunlight and the blessings of life, the phrase “You Become More Beautiful Each Day” came to her, drawn from the spirit of Joe Sample’s Carmel album. That single lyric became the heart of a song that celebrates the profound beauty of relationships that continues to grow richer over time.

Musically, the single blends elements of classic R&B, jazz, and subtle Latin influences to create a sound that is both expansive and deeply grounded.

The rhythm section is driven by jazz-fusion legend Lenny White on drums and the iconic Marcus Miller on bass whose grooves provide a flawless foundation. Cyrus Chestnut’s piano work adds elegance, while percussionist Bashiri Johnson brings a gentle vibrancy to the arrangement. Acoustic guitarist Marcus Machado injects a soothing groove, layering the track with definite texture and heart.

Backing vocals from Catherine Russell, Carolyn Leonhart, and Everett Bradley create a choral warmth that complements Nicki’s voice, as she glides effortlessly between tenderness and power.

Her vocal delivery is nothing short of mesmerizing, balancing technical precision with true vulnerability. Every note feels deliberate, every lyric like a gift carefully unwrapped for the listener.

While “You Become More Beautiful” is infused with the festive spirit of the holiday season, its themes transcend the moment. It’s a song about cherishing the people who matter most, about finding beauty in life’s fleeting yet profound moments. This emotional resonance is what makes the song feel so deeply personal while still managing to speak to listeners on a broader scale.

About Nicki Richards

Nicki Richards’s has a talent for creating meaningful music, something that has ensured longevity in her music career.

From her early breakout on Star Search to her collaborations with legends like Madonna, Mariah Carey, and Whitney Houston, Nicki has consistently proven herself to be a creative force. Yet what really makes her music endure is the way she imbues it with her own experiences and insights, creating songs that are unique while also relatable.

“You Become More Beautiful” from Nicki Richards is a gift that will keep giving, long after the holiday season has passed.

Keep up with Nicki Richards on her Website.

Stream music on Spotify, and YouTube Music.

12.26.24

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.

12.11.24

by Jane Lambert

Video Voyaguer: 3 Q’s with The IT City

This holiday season, The It City bring a fresh take on festive nostalgia with their heartwarming music video for “Christmas At Home”.

Known for their blend of modern sounds and timeless appeal, the band re-imagines their original orchestral holiday anthem in an intimate, acoustic trio format.

The result is a cozy stripped-down rendition that perfectly captures the warmth, longing and joy that defines the holiday season.

In this exclusive interview, we take a deeper dive into the inspiration behind the song, the creative vision for the music video, and the magic of bringing their holiday vision to life with the help of the talented Sean Power of Music City Content Kings.

Watch here:

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

“Christmas At Home” is a forlorn little love letter to the holidays. We wanted to evoke the warm feelings of nostalgia that sneak in this time of year.

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

We love the old Christmas specials and all of the unique and interesting performances from them. It was also an exciting musical opportunity to reimagine the original arrangement, replete with full orchestration, as a simplified acoustic trio!

3. What was the process of making the video?

The inimitable Sean Power of Music City Content Kings has a cozy studio here in Nashville. He does incredible work and had the cameras all set up and the stockings hung by the sound baffles with care. It’s always a delight to work with him whenever we can!

About The It City

The It City is a dynamic Nashville-based band known for its eclectic fusion of sounds that blend pop, rock, and soul with the timeless spirit of the city’s musical heritage.

Formed by a group of talented musicians including DJ Phillips (guitar, vocals), Derrek Phillips (drums, percussion, backing vocals), Rich Brinsfield (bass, backing vocals), and Reed Pittman (keyboards, vocals) the band has quickly become a standout act in the vibrant Nashville music scene.

With a string of successful releases and collaborations, The It City has received attention both locally and internationally, sharing the stage with music legends such as Elton John, Lana Del Rey, Sting, and Maren Morris.

The band’s sound is characterized by rich harmonies, infectious melodies, and a deep-rooted commitment to musicianship, evident in their diverse musical influences and creative approach to songwriting.

Their holiday single Christmas At Home is the latest in a series of releases that explore their familiar sounds while staying true to the heart of what makes their music so universally appealing.

Connect with The IT City here:

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