by Jane Lambert

Blonde & Grey’s New Album Release “Drifting Through The Universe” – A Journey Across Decades and Emotions

Blonde & Grey’s latest album release “Drifting Through The Universe” is a thoughtful, immersive dive into classic rock-inspired melodies layered with a contemporary edge.

Kathy Olsen and Neil Friend have created something special here – this is a record that feels as though it’s been lovingly pieced together from the past while gazing firmly toward the future.

The lead single, “All The Time,” is the perfect opener, with Olsen’s soulful vocals and Friend’s effortlessly smooth guitar work creating a sound that is comforting and fresh. It’s a song that sticks with you, warm and melodic, like it’s been waiting on your favorite playlist.

Listen in here:

Friend says about the song:

“I started looping a beat and then record 20-30 seconds of some music on top of that and then toss on some lyrics without spending time worrying about what was coming out – just record it! I took 10 of these and asked the Blonde & Grey community which they like best and this one won.

I used the initial lyrics as the chorus – “All the Time Wondering how it’s gonna be…” I later added verses and a bridge.

I suppose the thinking is we are always wondering what’s to happen next, based on what/who we’re following, decisions we make, where we’ve gone. And it’s an endless process.“

The rest of the album unfolds like a story as it moves through tender reflections and lighter, playful moments.

“Since I Got You” has a breezy sweetness, while “Let’s Jangle” lives up to its name, full of charm and bright energy. Olsen’s flute dances through the arrangements, adding a magical, almost whimsical quality to the songs. It’s a touch that sets them apart and reminds you of the days when rock was unafraid to experiment.

This album feels like a leap forward from their previous release, Face the Music. There’s a stronger sense of identity here, as though Blonde & Grey have really leaned into what makes them unique.

Tracks like “Mud Mills Road” and “Gracie’s Grace” from their earlier work hinted at their potential, but Drifting Through The Universe delivers on it, with a sound that is both cohesive and diverse.

Blonde & Grey have always been about connection, and you can feel that here. Not just in the songs, but in the spirit of the album. They’ve built a reputation as incredible live performers, whether that is in small, cozy venues or online streams, and that authenticity translates beautifully into this record.

About Blonde & Grey

Blonde & Grey, the dynamic duo of Neil Friend and Kathy Olsen, are a true example of the enduring power of music to bridge time, generations, and genres.

Based in Danbury, Connecticut, the duo bring together their unique musical backgrounds into a sound that’s as heartfelt as it is versatile.

Neil Friend, singer-songwriter and guitarist, brings decades of experience from playing in New York’s iconic CBGB scene to crafting songs that traverse decades. His partner, Kathy Olsen, adds a touch of elegance with her virtuosic flute playing and radiant harmonies and draws on her classical training and years as a music educator.

Together, they have cultivated a style that is equal parts folk, rock, and modern pop, infused with nostalgia and innovation in equal measure.

If you’re a fan of Fleetwood Mac, The Moody Blues, or just music that feels honest and deeply human, then their new album “Drifting Through The Universe” deserves your time.

Keep up to date with Blonde & Grey on their Website.

Listen to “Drifting Through The Universe” here.

Stream music on Spotify and Soundcloud.

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

10.24.24

by Jane Lambert

Faint Halos Shines Bright in New Album Release “I can see a million lights”

Faint Halos latest offering, “I can see a million lights“, marks a transformative chapter for singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Paul Hashemi.

This album is a striking blend of folk, rock, and experimental sounds, which also maintains a deeply personal narrative throughout all of its ten tracks.

Opening with “The Miracle Comes,” listeners are greeted with an uplifting vibe straight away. Hashemi’s voice shine against a backdrop of rhythmic drumming and bright instrumentation, setting a hopeful tone that carries through the album.

In contrast, “Last Scenes of the Resistance” explores darker themes of sacrifice and the weight of leaving loved ones behind for a cause. Hashemi narrates the story of a resistance fighter, reminding us of the personal stakes involved in the fight for freedom. The lyrical depth here manages to show how Hashemi brings intricate, poignant stories into his music.

One of the standout tracks, “Something To Lose,” re-imagines a previous rock hit as a delicate acoustic piece.

Stripped away of its original electric energy, the song allows the raw vulnerability to take center stage, particularly in the tender harmonies with Paul Hashemi’s daughter, Cate. Their collaboration adds an intimate layer, transforming it into an exploration of familial bonds and shared experiences.

The use of unconventional instruments, like a re-purposed sofa as a kick drum, shows Hashemi’s creativity and ability to find artistry in the everyday.

“Skyline Hill” is another highlight that captures the essence of nostalgia with its minimalist guitar work and evocative lyrics. Hashemi paints a vivid picture of Philadelphia. The delicate eBow guitar lines create an atmosphere that evokes a warm summer night, while the sparse arrangement allows the listener to immerse themselves in the emotional landscape. Here, Hashemi explores themes of belonging and the transient nature of life, emphasizing how our sense of home is shaped by both the familiar as well as more fleeting moments.

The energy shifts dramatically with “Disaster,” where gentle guitar arpeggios gradually build into an emotional crescendo. This track reflects internal conflict, with Hashemi’s unfiltered delivery bringing raw honesty to lines like, “I’m losing grip, it’s getting hard to stay intact.”

The juxtaposition of softness and intensity shows his remarkable ability to convey the complexities of human emotion.

Another reflective moment arrives in “Wasted on Youth,” a ballad that poignantly captures the bittersweet passage of time. The soaring chorus intertwines themes of regret with hope, embodying the struggle of reconciling youthful choices with the wisdom gained over the years. This theme of looking back while moving forward threads throughout the album.

Paul says about the album:

“I can see a million lights” (encapsulates one of its) major themes – reflection on choices made, promises kept, and promises broken in life. For Gen Xers like me, one of the most important values has always been authenticity. Our society today makes it harder than ever to stay authentic, and I think for anybody, as you get older you look back and see things you could have done differently, things that might have been.”

“I can see a million lights” is a beautifully crafted album that feels both intimate and expansive. Hashemi’s innovative approach to instrumentation, combined with emotive lyrics and storytelling, makes it a rewarding listen.

And with more than 100,000 Spotify streams of the singles combined from this album, “I can see a million lights” is sure to be a standout release of 2024 in music.

Keep up to date with Faint Halos:

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

10.10.24

by Jane Lambert

Singer-Songwriter Eli Golden Releases Brand New Single “Worst Nightmare”, out Now!

Actor and musician Eli Golden, known for his starring role in the Netflix feature film “13 The Musical, “ has released a new single just in time for Halloween, “Worst Nightmare”.

It’s a striking blend of hip-hop and pop, all wrapped up in an eerie atmosphere that perfectly complements the theme.

From the song’s beginning, listeners are drawn into a world of haunting melodies. Written in C minor, “Worst Nightmare” has only four chords in the verse, and three chords in the chorus, with the E major chord lending a creepy vibe. Eli sticks to the minor chords in both the verse and the chorus, making sure that the chorus avoids anything too bright or happy.

Golden’s voice captures the feeling of being trapped by the memory of a past lover. The lyrics explore the lingering emotional baggage following a break-up, making this song relatable to anyone who has experienced a similar heartache.

The production on this track was co-crafted with producer Matt Anthony (Shinedown, Pat Monohan, Darius Rucker, Theory of a Deadman, Halestorm, Tammany Hall NYC, JJ Appleton, and more). The eerie soundscapes create a ghostly ambiance that echoes the theme of being haunted. Combining rhythm beats and melodic hooks is the perfect backdrop for Golden’s storytelling.

One of the standout aspects of “Worst Nightmare” is how it artfully balances its darker themes with moments of brightness. The song’s structure builds tension throughout, leading to a memorable climax, which leaves a lasting impression on the listener. Golden can bring complex emotions into accessible pop music here, showing a maturity beyond his years.

Having originally written the song at 11 years old, the decision to revisit it shows just how far Eli has come. It’s a compelling single that combines haunting themes with infectious pop sensibilities.

“Worst Nightmare” will be a highlight track of the fall music scene for fans and newcomers alike.

About Eli Golden

Eli Golden, born in 2007, is a young actor and singer who made a striking debut as the lead in Netflix’s 13: The Musical.

Hailing from Westchester, New York, Eli grew up in a family deeply connected to the entertainment world. His early career included commercials and TV roles before his breakthrough on the big stage. His performance in “13: The Musical” showed his vocal and acting talents and placed him firmly in the spotlight as a rising star.

With a strong sense of his roots and a passion for performing, Eli Golden is poised for an exciting future in film and theater.

Stay up to date with Eli Golden on Instagram.

Stream music on Spotify, Apple Music and YouTube Music

10.04.24

by Jane Lambert

Real Stories, Real Songs in George Collins’s Latest EP “Songs for Grown Ups”

George Collins’s EP “Songs for Grown-ups“ is a wonderful exploration of adulthood all wrapped up in the comforting embrace of Americana rock.

This EP, which includes six previously released singles along with a new and exclusive bonus track, offers a profound reflection on the themes of family, love, aging, and gratitude, all delivered through Collins’s signature warm and inviting sound.

The EP opens with the vibrant “I Got What I Got,” a feel-good anthem that encourages listeners to appreciate life’s blessings.

This song has an upbeat tempo and a melody that creates an instant connection, setting a positive tone for the journey ahead.

Following this, “Where Have I Been All Your Life” displays Collins’s introspective songwriting at its finest, balancing the competing demands of personal passions and family obligations – a relatable sentiment for many especially in the busy world of today.

One of the standout moments in the collection is “My Wish For You.” This song is a touching tribute to Collins’s daughter that took almost a decade to craft. This song encapsulates the hopes and dreams every parent holds for their child, that each parent wants the absolute best for their child and this shows true sincerity and love.

“Stop the Sun” is a more contemplative reminder of life’s fleeting nature, skilfully bringing together themes of time and existence into its storyline. This is a track that invites the listener to pause and reflect, and it really adds a lot of depth to the overall message of the EP.

As the journey comes to a close with “Saving the Best for Last,” listeners are treated to a saxophone-infused melody that has a contemporary flair.

What makes “Songs for Grown-ups” particularly remarkable is Collins’s ability to tackle complex themes without becoming overly serious. Instead, he creates an experience that is both introspective and celebratory and invites the listener to revel in the joy and wisdom that comes with maturity.

Overall, George Collins’s Songs for Grown-ups is a delightful addition to the Americana rock landscape.

It shows an artist who has embraced life’s myriad of experiences, as well as looking back at all of the crossroads and paths that took one to where they are, today. Through catchy hooks and thoughtful storytelling, Collins delivers a collection that will relate for anyone navigating the ups and downs of adulthood.

Originally from Washington D.C. and currently based in Prague, George Collins blends elements of Americana rock with the introspection of blues and soul. His music nods to iconic artists such as The Beatles, Elvis Costello, Dire Straits, Tom Petty, Otis Redding, as well as James Brown.

Collins is also an experienced writer, having penned two novels, a screenplay, as well as numerous short stories and poems. His artistic journey reflects a deep commitment to authenticity, making him a unique voice in today’s music scene.

Connect with George Collins here:

Website // Facebook // Instagram // Spotify

09.27.24

by Jane Lambert

Animals In Denial Release Powerful New Single “COI”!

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Christian Imes, the driving force behind Animals In Denial, delivers a potent blend of industrial rock and electronica with latest single “Coi.”

“Coi” is a track that has been a long time in the making. Initially composed in 2003, it began with electronic sequences created using Acid Pro 4, a tool that allowed Christian to stitch together the core of what would become a powerful and compelling piece.

The track was initially intended as a pitch for one of his earlier bands, but the project was shelved when the band’s singer felt there wasn’t enough room for lyrics. However Christian knew there was something special within the track’s groovy, hard-hitting beats and dark atmosphere, so he tucked it away for years until the timing felt right to revisit it.

Listen in here:

“Coi” channels the spirit of Nine Inch Nails and takes much of its inspiration from albums like The Fragile and Pretty Hate Machine. These influences are clear in the driving, industrial beats which are combined with a massive wall of sound created by searing guitar lines that cut through the electronic undercurrent. Imes explains that he wanted the track to be something that rocked as hard as metal but still had a danceable, rhythmic groove.

The result is a track that balances heaviness and energy, perfect for both head-banging and losing yourself in its hypnotic rhythm.

One of the standout elements of “Coi” is its guitar work. Christian used his Epiphone Les Paul Special 2 to lay down both the rhythm and lead tracks, capturing a raw, gritty sound that perfectly complements the song’s darker vibe. His 85 Gibson Les Paul Studio, which was a cherished birthday gift from his mother, was used to add more depth and richness to the lead lines in the chorus, as well as fatten up the rest of the sound to give a sense of power. The guitar parts came naturally, with many of the recordings being first takes.

While the bass lines were created using a sample pack and a keyboard, they blend in and add a weighty low-end that helps to anchor the frenetic energy of the drums and guitars.

Christian’s attention to detail in production, even when using non-traditional instruments, shines through in every aspect of the song.

Recorded with a Shure SM58 microphone and enhanced using the Nectar plugin and a mic modeler plugin, Imes delivers a raw and emotionally charged performance.

The lyrics reflect his feelings of betrayal, frustration, and emotional turmoil after a toxic relationship. Imes recounts how the relationship, marked by manipulation, dishonesty, and infidelity which left him feeling used and lost. Lines like, “I’m sick on the in, you’re sick on the out,” capture the disconnect between his efforts to heal and his ex-partner’s refusal to confront her own demons. At the time, Christian was navigating challenges related to PTSD and ASD, which added to the complexity of the situation.

“Lyrically, this is another one that was about one of my ex-girlfriends. It’s not nice but she treated me about as bad as you can possibly treat someone. From the hot and cold, to endless lies about stuff you should never lie about. She was my first after school serious relationship and I got really invested, and in retrospect the signs, flags, whatever, were there. I was also seeing doctors and therapists to deal with PTSD and ASD and trying to figure out “me” is why I think I missed some clear signals that we would’ve been better as friends.”

Reflecting on the lyrics today, Imes acknowledges that both he and his ex-partner were dealing with unresolved pain, but at the time of writing “Coi,” he was still deeply hurt. He now sees the relationship from a more mature perspective, recognizing that it was a combination of their struggles that led to its unraveling.

Christian Imes, the brain behind Animals In Denial, is an artist who defies boundaries and challenges the status quo. His music merges elements of alternative rock, industrial, electronic, and even pop. As a neurodivergent artist, Christian shares a unique perspective and experience with Asperger’s syndrome, creating songs that speak to the human existence in profound and innovative ways.

A devoted family man, Christian can often be found jamming with his sons, passing on his love for music and creativity. His ethos can be summed up in his own words: “I just want to live my life surrounded by music.”

As the latest addition to the Animals In Denial discography, “Coi” solidifies Christian’s place as a visionary in the alternative and industrial rock music genres.

“Coi” is now available on all streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube.

Stay up to date with Animals In Denial on the Website, and Facebook.

Stream music on Spotify, Soundcloud and YouTube music.