Category Archives: Reviews

Brad Geiger – Roman Revolutionaries: Beach Day

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Roman Revolutionaries: Beach Day is a new album from Los Angeles artist and all around creative mogul, Brad Geiger. This eclectic release blends elements of multiple genres to create a collage-like, avant garde tour de force. Songs like Say and Elapses give off organic and powerfully neo-psychedelic vibes. Musically the sound is mildly reminiscent of indie rock experimentalists like “Of Montreal,” though the ambiance here is a little more raw (though that’s what happens when you’re not backed by a major label). Far from being minimalistic, the tracks on this album manage to condense a lot of unique sounds, the result being a strangely cohesive energy, often reminding me of 60’s classics like Defecting Grey from The Pretty Things. A more contemporary comparison would be some of the lo-fi indie projects that came out of Portland and Olympia (before the scene became cliche.)

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Brad’s vocals seem to be built for indie and just seem to have that natural indie pop tone. They are usually subdued in the mix, audible and enjoyable but not placed at the forefront. The focus here is typically on the instrumentals, which are loud, melodic and strangely danceable. Synth elements and cool, retro noise samples give some of these recordings an almost new wave feel. Other jams like Waking have more of a 90’s alternative, pop punk aesthetic, reminiscent of groups like The Smoking Pokes. Now that I think about it, Geiger’s voice sounds a lot like the singer from that band (which I suppose is a pretty good compliment). I honestly love the production on this album. It sounds very analog and is mixed in a way which highlights the artistic qualities, and overall it’s just very pleasing to the ear…especially when one considers all the potentially abrasive experimental elements being thrown into the mix to spice things up. Brad isn’t afraid to make bold creative choices and is willing to risk ruining a song to add some interesting ingredient or musical afterthought. In every case here, it pays off. At 14 songs, jam packed with passion and humble talent, this is a full length album in every sense. No ego, no posturing or empty hype to get in the way. Some good stuff here, folks. It’s real.

Fore more info:

http://www.bradgeigermusic.com
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/brad-geiger/1355457977

Blacc Cuzz – Wadd Up Doe

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Wadd Up Doe is a new single from Pittsburgh hip hop artist Blacc Cuzz. This pimp tight jam has the official World Star Hip Hop stamp of approval, so you know it’s legit. The video for this song is larger than life and makes a point of showcasing a rather impressive Mercedes Benz, which must have cost a pretty penny.

Production is very good, pretty much at the level of a major label. With an intriguing backstory and probably a lot more street cred than the average up and coming rapper, Blacc is the real deal. The vibe is a mix of old school substance and contemporary musical innovation. The song combines elements of hip hop, trap and EDM, all centered around Blacc Cuzz’s conversational and reflective delivery. He excels at storytelling and lyrically comes across as motivational and aiming to inspire. In that sense Wadd Up Doe is upbeat and always leans in a positive direction. The artist has a charismatic presence, and the video for this song is already approaching 200k views, (despite being out less than a month). I could see this guy making some real waves nationally.

For more info:

https://www.blacccuzzdbe.com/
https://linktr.ee/BlaccCuzz

Andres Javier – Whistleblower

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Whistleblower is a new single from Puerto Rican artist/producer (based in New York) Andres Javier. It’s a pretty straightforward anti-Trump hip hop jam. If you’re a Trump hater you’ll love it and if you’re a Trump supporter you’ll probably hate it. It doesn’t pull any punches. However, it stands on its own musically. Production quality and performance are top tier. Andres has a solid delivery and consistent flow. The track isn’t an amateur endeavor. Javier’s classical training is evident on the recording, as the songwriting structure and framework envelop the vocals nicely in the mix. Lyrically, the artist makes the case clearly and in relative detail for why he wants Trump out. This song definitely gets its point across and has the power to get people amped up for the election one way or the other. The accompanying music video utilizes a montage of Trump tweets, photographs and headlines, which are synced up with the track. There are a lot of them packed into the video to go with this tune (which has a runtime of just under 4 minutes). The best part of this song is the eerie synth bridge which comes around 3/4 of the way through, which gave me a chuckle as it was visually matched to Trump’s expression as though he were making the sounds. Whistleblower is available on Spotify.

For more info:

FHEDESH – Goth God

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Goth God is an ambitious new single from goth trap artist, FHEDESH (which I believe is supposed to be pronounced like “fetish.” This horrifyingly majestic jam is actually quite beautiful. The hypnotic intro gives way to a low key, goth opera and later treats the listener to some ambient piano. A delightful surprise, the piano arrival pulls everything together and allows us to realize the artist’s vision. I’ll admit I never heard of “goth trap” before and wondered just what in the world (or netherworld) kind of new spin on dance music could possibly exist. Once you listen though, you will get it. Darkly orchestral beats with a hint of demonry combine with a piano recital of the undead, courtesy of our maestro, FHEDESH. This song really does have goth vibes, not in the angsty 90s “mall goth” way, but as in like actually gothic. Soon to be playing at a cathedral near you. I recommend checking out the video for this song for the full experience. It delivers the goods visually and fits well with the music. Also, it’s worth noting that FHDESH owns a downtown Los Angeles “vampire” club called Drac’Haus where you can see him perform live.

For more info:

https://www.fhedesh.com/

Alex Kyle – I’ll Be Your Lighthouse

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I’ll Be Your Lighthouse is a new release from award winning UK songwriter, Alex Kyle. This passionately performed adult contemporary jam features dreamy, theatrical reverb and stellar vocals. The mellow and minimalist intro slowly builds until the song kicks into full orchestral rock opera. The power will surprise you. Dynamic and melodically complex, I’ll Be Your Lighthouse is simply a dazzling recording. Alex’s voice brims with emotion as he belts out the lyrics like there’s no tomorrow. Accentuated by 12 string guitar goodness and enveloped in symphonic ambiance, the vocals are just awesome. The mix is well balanced and has a clean professional sound. This track is better than almost anything played on the radio in 2019. I don’t normally like to write such a glowing review, but honestly just listen to this song for yourself, and you’ll see. For the full effect I recommend watching the accompanying avant garde video. There’s some real talent here.

For more info:

https://www.alexkyle.co.uk/

A Pop Punk Christmas Carol – Gutter Pop Records (Various Artists)

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If you’re looking for a snazzy gift this holiday season, A Pop Punk Christmas Carol would be the perfect stocking stuffer. This compilation album from Gutter Pop Records features 18 tracks worth of pop punk covers of your favorite Christmas classics. Not since the Shirley Temple DVD box set have we seen an offer this difficult to pass up. Seriously though, this album rocks. It contains song contributions from bands all over the world, countries such as Italy, Japan, USA, Russia, UK, Germany and even Canada. You might think that including artists from so many different geographic areas would negatively affect the consistency of the sound, but that isn’t the case here. It sounds remarkably cohesive and emits a relatively pure pop punk vibe across the board. These bands have got this sound nailed down to a science.

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The opening track, O Holy Night leaves a solid impression and sets the standard for what to expect. The vocals of Jen Buzzkill are enchantingly angelic. It’s refreshing to see female punk performers who aren’t merely caricatures doing cosplay but who can actually sing and have their own style. Her dynamic voice carries the song and gives it an avant garde flair. Her performance (and those of others elsewhere on this release) elevate the content, allowing the listener to realize this isn’t just a novelty album. Another track, Silent Night from Black Russians (who I’m going to go out on a limb and guess aren’t actually black) is an instant hit and one of the best jams on the album. It’s probably the catchiest tune on here. Black Russians also recently released their own full length album Death By Communism, which is sure to resonate with millions of people, living or otherwise.

Everything on the album is clean, crisp and tight. High quality production is maintained throughout. It’s also interesting to see how the different groups incorporate their own creative twists on what we recognize as familiar holiday songs. Vindictives’ rendition of Jingle Bells effectively utilizes a pace which oscillates between lightning fast and caterpillar slow. Frosty the Snowman (“The Beatersband” from Italy) is another standout track. Fronted by the superb vocals of Donatelle Guida, this is probably my favorite song on the release. It has some great vintage guitar tones and the subtly tender ambiance just fills me with the Christmas spirit.

It should also be noted that Joy to the World is a collaborative effort which combines the talents of Jason V from The Jasons, Jenny and Zac Buzzkill From Radio Buzzkills and Mirko and Aleksander666 from the Black Russians. Rumor has it that these people will be working on more music together in the future, though we don’t yet know the final form of this supergroup. Pop punk aficionados might also be pleased to know the Jay Prozac (of The Prozacs fame) makes an appearance on this release with his powerful version of, Angels We Have Heard On High.

A Pop Punk Christmas Carol may be a fun Christmas album, but it also showcases some serious talent and offers a glimpse at a plethora of the up and coming bands in a genre that’s been quietly reemerging.

For more info:
https://gutterpoprecords.bandcamp.com/album/a-pop-punk-christmas-carol

IDO – NYC To Tel Aviv (ft. Romy Wave)

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NYC To Tel Aviv is a new single from Israeli based EDM songwriter, IDO. The song’s intriguingly exotic, James Bond like intro immediately piques the listener’s interest and gives the track an organic, avant garde quality that’s often lacking in EDM releases. Moments later, when the song kicks in, we’re treated to a cascade of colorful emotion and musical fullness. Bright, melodic and jam packed with positive energy the music would seem to be able to stand on its own. However NYC To Tel Aviv is further elevated by the stellar vocals of iconic singer Romy Wave. She definitely delivers the goods. This release does a swell job of capturing the upbeat spirit and loving vibes of EDM, while also managing to incorporate some creative elements at the margins to give things a bit of flavor. It’s available on iTunes, here.

For more info:

https://www.instagram.com/idomontaniez/

Gregory Suarez – Around the World

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Around the Worldnis a new single from singer/songwriter Gregory Suarez. This bright and colorful indie pop jam is brimming with optimism and romantic innocence. The title can be taken both literally and figuratively, as either the tale of a couple getting ready to travel the world together as faithful companions or as that euphoric “over the moon” feeling when two people rediscover what was once lost and decide to give things another try. Gregory’s vocals are impressive. At a technical level, he actually sings much better than what is typically expected for this genre. He manages to pull off this stellar performance without sacrificing emotional expressiveness or sincerity. I could easily see this sentimental song being used in some kind of commercial. It’s professional and heartwarming, with the sentiments likely to resonate with a wide variety of audiences.

For more info:

https://www.instagram.com/gregiepoo/
https://twitter.com/GregSuarezMusic

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSSlfT29CfY

Shawna Roxanne – Lies

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Lies is a new single from Pittsburgh based R&B vocalist, Shawna Roxanne. She’s a veteran musician with a lengthy resume of live performances and a number of past releases under her belt. This latest jam features a futuristic and surreal backbeat. Melodic and minimal, the music allows Shawna’s vocals to take center stage where they flow in sync with the irregular yet playfully hypnotic beat. There’s some light vocal processing but not enough to detract from the artist’s dynamic and beautiful natural tone. As the song kicks in, the catchy chorus and danceable rhythm make this peppy track ideal to groove to. There’s an unexpected rapping interlude midway through the song (Gallo Locknez,) adding another dimension to keep things fresh. Despite the subject matter, which deals with dishonesty in relationships, the musical vibe is positively upbeat and energetic, as the aesthetic cover artwork suggests. Shawna definitely delivers the goods with this single. It’s professional and hits all of its target marks, musically and emotionally.

For more info:

http://www.shawnaroxanne.com/

West of Corey – Course of Things to Come

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Course of Things to Come is a new single from the Minnesota based trio, “West of Corey.” The sound is an organic blend of acoustic, blues and rock, with hints of psychedelia. Production wise, the recording gives off a warm analog vibe and has a vaguely avant garde 1960s quality to it. With a mix that’s fairly minimalist, the song sparkles and surprises with some enchanting effects. Skillful vocalist Janine Taft’s charismatic voice drives the action against a deeply melodic guitar backdrop. Janine belts out the lyrics with a passion and power reminiscent of the some of the more iconic folk/blues/lounge singers. Exotic guitar riffs and a haunting, Jefferson Airplane style backbeat round things off nicely. Course of Things to Come is a quietly professional masterpiece, positioned neatly under the radar.

For more info:

https://westofcorey.band
https://www.facebook.com/WestOfCorey
https://twitter.com/WestOfCorey