Lucien- Deal With It Review

Artist: Lucien
Title: Deal With It
Website: http://www.luciennocelli.com
Style: Guitar Rock
Label: Infinite Trend Records
Rating: 8.9 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Known simply as Lucien he's more then a musician, he's a showman. His energetic live shows have been referred to as, 'the perfect modern glam rock concert.' Lucien is also in the touring International Beatlemania Stage Production playing the part of John Lennon. He is also an author having penned a guitar book for the advanced player "Modes In Motion," which recently has been republished marking the book's 10th anniversary.

 

What you'll find on Deal With It is a collection of guitar rock songs that pay homage to the past while remaining fresh. Here's what Lucien had to say about it, "I wanted to fulfill the need of classic rock fans who desperately want to buy new recordings of the genre they grew up with. now they can." He continues on, "What I've created is modern classic rock, classic rock for those yearning for it with a modern twist that also tremendously appeals to younger audiences."

 

On this release besides handling lead vocals Lucien also plays all of the instruments including, guitar, bass, drums, percussion, and strings. You'll find guest drummers on 4 of the tracks. Lucien is also joined by his wife Sheri who adds in some harmony and background vocals.

 

This artist picked up his first guitar, a red half sized acoustic that his parents bought him at the age of 5, from that point on he was hooked. Besides a long history playing rock music Lucien also studied jazz guitar those styles along with touches of funk and pop creates his style.

 

While Deal With It is filled with the virtuoso guitar playing of Lucien the song's lyrics refuse to take a back seat. The songs are well written and deal with life related issues in general, both in the present and past. Issues like dealing with things one day at a time, taking the time to slow down and enjoy life, loneliness, childhood memories and what good does war really accomplish to name a few.

 

If you're a fan of guitar music, 70's/80's rock, or just good music then you need to get Lucien's latest release, Deal With It.

 

Darryl Gregory- She Review

Artist: Darryl Gregory
Title: She
Website: http://www.darrylgregory.com
CDBaby: http://cdbaby.com/cd/gregorydarryl
Style: Singer Songwriter/ Swamp Rock
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Darryl's music has taken many turns over the years. Starting out as a classically trained trombonist he spent over a decade playing in symphonies and big band jazz bands. He learned to play guitar while in a basement rock band. He's also into world music and co-founder of The Sa-Reel Project with composer Sasha Bogdanowitsch.

 

He's also composed music for film as well as incidental music for several off and off-off Broadway theatrical and dance works

 

By day Darryl is a music teacher in Stamford, CT where he instructs middle school aged children. He's also owner of Blue Cave Studios, a home project studio that caters to Indie-musicians, singer-songwriters and other non-label recording projects.

 

As I'm sure you've gathered by now Darryl has many strong roots down in the music industry.

 

Darryl's latest release She is a concept album about the many facets, both good and bad, of women.  Darryl says that, "each song is a chapter or a vignette that when put together tell an even greater story. There aren't too many concept albums coming out anymore, but I loved the challenge of doing it anyway."

 

Besides handling lead vocal duties on this release Darryl also plays the vast majority on instruments found on She including, guitars, bass, harmonica, organ piano, mandolin, and dobro to name just a few.

 

He's also added in some key components from other musicians like Rani Arbo whose lively fiddle playing fingerprints can be found through out the release.

 

Also Debbie Maloney's flute playing on track-6 "Out of Sight, Out of Mind" brings a nice, almost fanciful element, to the song.

 

You'll find Justin Hines on drum kit and congas. Last but not least are the helping vocals of Wendy Berry and Sasha Bogdanowitsch that worked as a nice accent to Darryl's deeper male vocals.

 

This release has many musical flavors found in it blending, singer/songwriter, alt. country, retro-rock, folk, and swamp rock sounds that alternate in tempo, from bar swigging hell-raisers, to melodic guitar and piano ballads.

 

Darryl's been around music for along time and his talent shines through brightly in this, his latest release, She.

Bayard Russell- Selftitled Review

Artist: Bayard Russell
Title: Selftitled
Website: http://www.bayardrussell.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/bayardrussell
CDBaby: http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/bayardrussell
Style: Pop/Techno
Rating: 8.1 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Russell, who's from Indiana, grew up listening to The Beatles and Ice Cube. He started playing the piano at age 4 and picked up guitar playing during his high school years.

 

He attended Dartmouth with a major in philosophy and a minor in music.  After graduation he moved to NYC to pursue his music.

 

Besides his solo work Russell is also the lead vocalist, bassist, and songwriter for the garage rock band Negative Ken.

 

Selftitled is Russell's debut solo release. On it you'll find a collection of music characterized in his press material as, 'Indie heartbroken pop.'
As that description indicates the songs found on this release deal with love and loss, with most of it centering on the heartbroken side of the love scale.

 

The music has an electro-pop style that runs throughout it ala bands like The Postal Service, which is one of the bands Russell list as his musical influences along with, Elliot Smith, John Mayer, Fountains of Wayne, Jack Johnson, and Belle and Sebastian.

 

The release has a lofi, not over worked, raw edge to it that creates a nice feel. With its wide variety of techno sounds and dance beats, intermixed with an alternative meets Indie pop sound, with a dash of playfulness and experimentation added in makes Bayard Russell's Selftitled a release worth buying.

After Edmund- Hello Review

Artist: After Edmund
Title: Hello
Website: http://www.afteredmund.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/afteredmund
Style: Modern Pop/Rock
Label: Slanted Records
Rating: 8.1 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Hello is the debut release from this Georgia band made up of 5 guys, all in their mid-20's.  The band's lineup is, Mitch Parks (lead vocals/guitars), Matt McFadden (bass guitar), Ben Hosey (guitars), Yates (keyboard instruments), and Adam Stanley (drums).

 

The band's name, After Edmund, comes from the Edmund character found in C.S. Lewis' best-selling book series The Chronicles of Narnia.

 

Several of the band's members have been classically trained along with being multi-instrumental.  "When we talk about several of us being classically trained, it is not meant to sound like showing off," explains drummer Adam Stanley. "Hopefully people won't listen and say 'they sound like music majors,' but our goal through that kind of practice and study is the ability to make better music where we know what we're doing in the studio rather than just stabbing around in the dark. If our backgrounds are not facilitating better art, it's pretty worthless other than just for amusement's sake."

 

The songs found on Hello range from driving rock numbers that feature big guitar parts and pounding drums to more melodic in tone. The one constant that runs through all of the songs is the talent that each band member posses. The songs are, tight, well done and offer strong arrangements.

 

They deal with issues like surrendering your fears to God, God's desire for all of us to know Him, to not place value on earthly treasures that are only temporary, God's power in the stormy times to pull us through them, and even though we might drift away from God, He's always there with us waiting to welcome us back.

 

When asked about the ministry part of their music band drummer Adam Stanley said, "A lot of our ministry is off stage since we enjoy talking to people and hearing what's on their mind," Stanley sums up. "...we are happy to share how faithful God's been to us. Being a musician, life is really uncertain, but we've never missed a meal! We'll be happy to share that, plus a lot of people are looking for someone outside their families to help them feel validated. Just being a listening ear does wonders for their self-esteems, which is an important part in finding the Truth. Sure we're all sinners; but on the flipside, we're beautiful in God's eyes and people have to realize how much He loves them."

 

After Edmund is made up of a group of very talented guys on a record label that gives them the freedom to experiment and make their music shine. The result of that is the well-crafted release, Hello.

 

Jamie Jamgochian- Above The Noise Review

Artist: Jamie Jamgochian
Title: Above The Noise
Style: Pop/ Worship
Website: http://www.jaimejam.com/
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jaimejamgochian
Rating: 9 out of 10
Label: Centricity Records
By C.W. Ross

 

Jamie's new album Above the Noise is much different sounding then her last release, Reason to Live. This one has much more of a pop feel to it, while still keeping her worship song lyrics.

 

On this release Jamie wanted to put together a collection of songs that would help the listener to strip away and remove all of the unimportant distractions that a lot of us often let into our lives that interfere with worship. Jamie says,  "I want people to sense the true passion for worship."

 

During the period of time that this release was being recorded Jamie was dealing with the loneliness that comes from being out touring plus she was also dealing with a virus that she had contracted while on a mission's trip outside of the U.S., some days she felt so drained that she wondered if she would even have the strength to record her vocals.

 

Dealing with all of that this release is filled with music that will at times have you dancing singing joyful praises while at other times have you on your knees crying.

 

Above the Noise has about 50% more pop sounding upbeat songs while the other 50% are more melodic and traditional. I liked both styles but I really noticed just what a great voice Jamie has on the more melodic songs like, "I Stand in Awe," and "The Life I Live," with their simple arrangements that really let Jamie's vocals soar.

 

The passion that comes through in her songs is undeniable. She's just not singing , these are emotions that are pouring out of her heart.

 

This is what I call a whole family type album. The more upbeat pop numbers will please the younger kid's ear while the more melodic songs will have a familiar sound that the more mature ear will appreciate.

 

Do yourself a favor and don't miss out on the worship experience that's found on Jamie Jamgochian's new release, Above The Noise.

 

Peech Review

Artist: Peech
Title: Peech
Website: http://www.peechmusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/peech
Style: Acoustic Rock
Label: Unison Music
Rating: 8.2 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Peech is made up of Chelsea Dohemann (vocals, guitar, piano), and Megan Osborn (vocals, guitar). This is the self-titled debut release, on Unison Music, for the California duo that met in the Cal State Chico dorms during their freshman year in college.

 

With two very distinctive personalities the two didn't even think that they would like each other but that changed when they found  their common love of music.

 

Lucky for us that they had the connection to music because Peech makes music that's worth hearing. Whether soft and on the folk side or more up-tempo with a rock beat it's all good.

 

The ladies pull their musical influences from a wide array of artist from Janis Joplin, Blondie, Police, and what they say is their favorite band of all time, The Beatles.

 

Their song lyrics deal with a wide range of emotions. The ladies like to not be pigeonholed into singing about just one subject.

 

"We take a lot of pride in being able to write about a lot of different subjects. All of our songs aren't about guys or love," says Dohemann. "Before we were writing from inside looking out, but now we're outside looking in, seeing things from a bigger perspective."

 

"If people respond to it, like cry or get really angry, just have an emotion, I feel like 'awesome, we touched someone,' " says Osborn.

 

The release gets started with the song, "Driving Blind" that features a really interesting arrangement to it, involving tempo changes. From there the release intermixes melodic folk and pop/rock tracks.

 

The release ends with track-12, "Thank You" a piano ballad that if you close your eyes and listen  visions of Tori Amos will flash into your mind.

 

Peech's self-titled release offers up 46 minutes of entertaining music with song lyrics that will draw upon your emotions.

 

Jeff Johnson- Glorious Day Review

Artist: Jeff Johnson
Title: Glorious Day
Website: http://www.jeffjohnsonband.org
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jeffjohnsonmusic
Style: Worship
Rating:  8 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Jeff Johnson used to work at a corporate job until he decided that he wanted something different, so in 2003 he started Jeff Johnson Ministries. He also made an appearance on the hit show American Idol in 2005.

 

Glorious Day is Jeff's third release, (Enter In: EP 2005, Shaken 2003). On this release Jeff uses rousing worship music to drive home the point of God's love and grace. He also encourages the need for a deeper faith and walk with God.

 

Jeff says that, "My deepest desire is that these songs would resound the immaculate beauty of our God-- exalting Him, and Him alone."

 

The release starts off with the driving big guitar lead song, "God Over Us," a praise and worship song about God's glory. From there the CD continue on with several more up-tempo songs until track-6 the classic church hymn, "The Old Rugged Cross."

 

Jeff performs this song along with fellow artist Shane Barnard. Ironically when I looked over the release's song list this was probably the one that I was looking forward to hearing the most.

 

I like to hear how artist interpret classic hymns and what new twist they'll add to them. Unfortunately this is the only song on the CD that I really didn't like.

 

The song has a constant percussion almost pounding sound that resonates in the background for the entire song that gave it an industrial sound that for me just didn't work.

 

Other then that I really enjoyed the CD and the powerful lyrics that are found in the songs.

 

Glorious Day is a nice collection of 10 songs that feature a mixture of contemporary worship and light rock along with a few touches of a country flavor that are highlighted with some nice arrangements.

 

Nemesis3 Interview

Nemesis3 Interview:
By C.W. Ross

Nemesis3- The band's press material describes their music as- "A unique, modern sound with diverse influences and real vocals unlike any rock band. The solid hooks and full sound are nothing like a typical 3 piece! The rhythms, melodies and lyrics will grab you instantly! With every tight and high energy performance, live shows are where N3 prove themselves."

Nemesis3- http://www.myspace.com/nemesis3

Lineup:

Marc Wasmund (lead vocals, guitar)
Dann Singer (drums, backing vocals)
Graig Lindgren (bass, backing vocals)


Nemesis3 Interview:


1. How did the band get started? And how did you come up with your name?


Marc Wasmund: Pretty typical scenario actually...I found a flyer in a music store saying 'new local rock band looking for lead singer'. I called the number and we got together to see what happens. Everything went well for a while but the common changes began; new guitar player, then a new bass player, then a new drummer. Soon I became the only guitar player, as well as lead singer, and we added another new bass player. Within a few years I was the only original member from the group whose flyer I answered in the first place. The members we had at that point are the current members today.

The way we came up with the name was very random. We wanted something powerful, catchy and one that makes you think a little. But no one had any ideas that stuck. We decided to look through the dictionary and pick out random words. About an hour later, we stopped on the words beginning with the letter 'N' (you can see where this is going). When we made it through to the word Nemesis...we all looked at each other and said: ?That's not bad, it could work?. We read through all of the definitions. The first, second and fourth definitions were kind of 'blah' and didn't really do anything for us. Then we read the 3rd definition; "An undefeatable enemy or foe; an indestructible opponent". Since we all agreed the 3rd definition of the word was the coolest and best sounding, Nemesis3 was born. Having started as a four-piece band, the number 3 has nothing to do with the amount of people in the band. It just happens to work out that way with our current lineup.


2. Your press material mentions that your band is not the typical 3 piece rock band. What makes you different?


MW: In the past, most 3 piece rock bands were known for playing straight punk music and/or just 3 chord 'burner' songs with no real musical depth. It always seems difficult to get a full sound out of a 'typical' 3 piece. Unless you liked the band Rush, who threw in some keyboards as well, nothing really stood out. What we've incorporated into our music (completely by accident) is more diverse song writing. We use stronger, more melodic vocals including backup vocals and the occasional 'guttural' tones for the more aggressive sections of songs. Lyrically we try to focus on topics that many people can relate to in their own way, while adding powerful guitar and vocal hooks to keep the music interesting. Our rhythm section is always tight and driving so you can feel the music as well as listen to it. Also, everyone carries their own weight when writing music in this band. It's not just one person doing all the work.

Graig Lindgren: We hear from people all the time after our shows that they can't believe we're a 3 piece. Our blend of great guitar work, melodic bass playing, and colorful drumming mixed with well-thought-out arrangements makes us stand out from the crowd.

Dann Singer: We don?t go out our way to be different or "non-typical", we just are what we are.

MW: True dat!


3. What do you want people to be saying while leaving after attending one of your band's shows?


MW: First I hope they say "wow", then I hope they say "Where can I get a CD?", and finally "When's you're next show?". On occasion we'll hear "What the heck are you still doing here?"

GL: I agree.

DS: We just want to get to the next level. We love the great feedback we get but we know this is a war not a battle. One show does not make or break a band.


4. What bands would you like to have the chance to open for?


MW: LIVE, Tool, 10 Years, Breaking Benjamin...

GL: Chevelle, Seether, Led Zeppelin (laughing)...

Dann: Tool, Sponge Bob (LOL)!


5.What music do you have out there for purchase? And where can people buy it at?


Our debut, 12 track, album "Scream as Needed" released on a very small indie label. You can buy it at Border's Books & Music, CD Warehouse, all the download and mp3 sites, our myspace and, of course, our live shows.


6.How are things going with the band's new release? And when will it be released?


MW: We have around 14 unrecorded and newly written songs ready to record. We hope to start recording them this spring. With the help of our new management company, we plan to shop our music to all the labels very soon.


7. Do you have any tours planned in support of it?


MW: We play shows all the time anyway.....but again, with the help of our management, we're starting to expand our gigs and fan base with better booking outside of our home area. Full touring would be amazing but if it can't pay for our regular bills at home, we really can't leave our 9-5's.

GL: We'd love to though. We talk about it constantly.



Short Fun Type Questions:


1. Favorite Food?


MW: Sea food

GL: Filet Mignon (medium rare)

DS: Anything Taco Bell.


2. Dog or Cat Person?


MW: Dog even though I have 2 cats (ugh)

GL: Dog (I have 4 - not mutts, they're hybrids...Jazz, Macy, Oreo and Onyx)!

DS: Neither.


3. Surfing or Skiing?


MW: Skiing (snowboarding, snowmobiles)

GL: Water skiing.

DS: Surfing.


4. Vinyl or CDs?


MW: Some of both, I don't buy too much music unless I reaaaaaaalllllly like the artist.

DS: CD's.

GL: Vinyl? Really? How about ipod?


5. Global Warming Yes or No?


MW: Yes...we're all going to die (LOL)

GL: Read "State of fear" by Michael Crichton, it may change your mind.

DS: Seems cold this winter, no?


6. Sport's Car or Motorcycle?


GL: Both!

DS: Sports car.

MW: Motorcycle for now.....both when our next album goes platinum (LOL again)

 

Nemesis3- Scream As Needed Review

Artist: Nemesis3
Title: Scream As Needed
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/nemesis3
Style: Hard Rock/ Alternative
Label: Frog and Scorpion Records
Rating: 7.8 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Nemesis3 is, Marc Wasmund (lead vocals, guitar), Dann Singer (drums, backing vocals),  and Graig Lindgren (bass & backing vocals).

 

The guys pull on their diverse musical influences of both classic bands like Rush and Led Zeppelin to today's bands like My Chemical Romance, and Incubus.

 

Nemesis 3 has shared the stage with national acts like, P.O.D., Chevelle, Mushroomhead, and Drowning Pool.

 

Scream As Needed is the band's debut release and was released in 2004. The band is ready to enter the studio and start working on their next project. They said that,  "We have 14 new songs to choose from and believe me, they are even better than the last CD."

 

Until then though Scream As Needed will be able to give you your needed fix of hard driving rock. It's filled with hard rock/metal guitar licks hot enough to dance with the devil along with bass lines that will smack the crap out of your stereo's speakers. Add on top vocals that are both pleading and wailing in the same song.

 

The band shows that they have more then one side to their music with a more melodic flow  that can also be found on several of the songs.

 

The one thing that never changes on this release from track-to-track is the good music that it keeps pumping out of your speakers.

Michael Stollaire- Interview

Below is a recent interview that I done with Michael Stollaire for on my Indie Music Stop site.

 

Michael Stollaire- http://www.michaelstollaire.com

 

Michael has been singing lead vocals, and playing lead guitar/keyboards in rock bands since the age of twelve. He recently took some time out of his busy schedule to do an interview with us.

 

Interview With Michael Stollaire

By C.W. Ross

 

1. You've played a wide variety of musical styles over the years, from 1950's rock to thrash metal. What style is your favorite?

 

Indeed, I think that one of the most important elements of success that is often overlooked is flexibility, along with being consistent and persistent, never letting anyone steal your dreams away. My favorite style of music is actually arena rock, like Nickelback, Creed, Good Charlotte, Evanescence, etc...

 

2. Who are some of your musical influences?

 

Great question, and my influences are eclectic, as shown on my most recent album, "Holy Avenger," which will be released on February 29th, at my gig at the infamous WHISKEY A GO GO on Sunset Strip. I've been influenced heavily by bands from ABBA to ZZ Top, and you can even hear elements of The Beach Boys in the layered vocals that I like to do, especially on tracks like "Liquid Gold."

 

Mainly, my style is hard pop rock, so you can see how bands like Nickelback, Creed, Bon Jovi, AC/DC, Evanescence, etc., showed themselves, like the Gothic piece, "Hell Comes Alive Here Tonight."

 

3. What projects are you working on now?

 

Well, I have to admit that I have started working a little on my next album, "Lightning Strikes Twice," recording some demos, and also, I've been approached by several companies, including Chevrolet, for tracks to use in commercials, film, and TV, which I am developing, for instance, "Cruisin' In My Chevrolet." One of my targets for the future, is placing as many of my songs as possible in soundtracks, in fact!

 

4. Do you have any touring planned?

 

I'm glad you asked! You can refer to my MySpace page for more information:

 

http://www.MySpace.com/theankhproject

 

as I have a booking agent, manager, and promoter, working feverishly on booking dates, to support the release of "Holy Avenger!" The first date is booked at THE WHISKY A GO GO, on L.A.'s infamous Sunset Strip:

 

http://eventful.com/events/west-hollywood/music-michael-stollaire-live-at-the-whiskey-a-go-go-la-friday-february-29-2008-/E0-001-009139117-6

 

I also have several dates in New York City, at The Pussycat Lounge and The Fortune Cookie Lounge. Currently, we are targeting festivals and colleges/universities, so that by the time Summer hits, we are really ramped up and rocking!

 

http://eventful.com/events/nyc/music-michael-stollaire-the-pussycat-lounge-new-york-city-/E0-001-009119786-2

 

http://eventful.com/events/new-york/music-michael-stollaire-live-at-the-fortune-cookie-lounge-nyc-march-30th-and-april-17th-2008-/E0-001-009136561-2

 

http://eventful.com/events/new-york/music-michael-stollaire-live-at-the-fortune-cookie-lounge-nyc-march-30th-and-april-17th-2008-/E0-001-009136567-6

 

HERE IS THE BIG DEAL ABOUT TICKETS AND GETTING A FREE ALBUM:

 

Cost:

 

$12 At the Door or Via PayPal:

 

http://www.PayPal.com

 

Using:

 

michael.stollaire@ehiinsm.com

 

If you mention that you heard about this offer through Indie Music Stop, I will give them a FREE DOWNLOAD of my entire album, with each ticket purchased, or vice-versa? if you buy the album, I will give you FREE VIP TICKETS to any of my concerts, world-wide!

 

5. Where do you draw your inspiration from for your songs?

 

A variety of different sources, to be totally honest. Some of them come from my real life, and the experiences that I am going through, or love and romance, of course. At other times, it's the places that I have travelled through, the people I've met, my history, how I envision my future, or the lives of the significant people in my life. For example, "This Country Boy Can Rock," is about my life as a boy, in a small village in upstate New York, called Scottsville, where I constantly dreamed of living in Los Angeles ~ now, that dream is my day-to-day reality, and the track tells the story of how that dream became true.

 

6. You've worked both as a solo artist and in a band which do your prefer and why?

 

Well, I do prefer being a solo artist, as I have total say over what material is produced, and how it is created, from start to finish. I consider these songs like my children, in a certain way, and so it's VERY important to me, how they are presented to the public? it's like a piece of me that is being shared with the world, if you know what I mean. I also like hand-picking the people I work with, like my GREAT producer, Dave Morse, and Suzahn Fiering, who is doing such a wonderful job promoting me, and giving me great advice, from her countless years in the music industry ~ I can't thank them enough! On the other hand there are big plusses being in a band, like the comradarie, team effort, and the familial bond that is created between the people involved. At times, I miss this, being a solo artist, and see myself gravitating again to join a band, as long as the time and opportunity are right.

 

7. Anything we missed that you would like to tell the readers?

 

Of course! The most important thing I want to say in this all-too-brief interview is THANK YOU TO ALL OF THE PEOPLE THAT HAVE BOUGHT MY ALBUM AND BOUGHT TICKETS TO SEE MY CONCERTS! Every day, I think of what's going on in my life, and how just a few months ago, I was walking around Waterford in Ireland, casually recording demos of some of my originals, just because I had "Write a rock album,"on my list of things to do before I die? Well? a few short weeks later, after posting some of my tracks on one of a billion or so music portal websites in Los Angeles, I was approached by a concert promoter, to open a stadium show in San Bernardino, as he loved "I Can't Let You Go," which then led my being approached by a record label in Hollywood, who asked the right question at the right time: "We would like to work with you, but need to know? What is the biggest show you ever played?!" Within hours, the contract was being faxed to me, after they listened to "Little Princess," "Just Like Yesterday," and later, "Watch Her Walk," which after receiving the magic touch from Mr. Morse, turned into the Top Three tracks on "Holy Avenger."

 

This is my roundabout way of telling everyone: DREAMS DO COME TRUE!

 

 

Woodpecker F-Hole Review

Artist: Woodpecker
Title: F- Hole
Website: http://www.woodpeckermusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/woodpeckermusic
Style: Punk-Americana/ Bluegrass
Rating: 7.5 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Where should I start with trying to describe the band Woodpecker? They started out in 2002 in Chicago redoing punk tunes to a bluegrass style of music. The group disbanded in 2003 and reformed again in 2005 in Brooklyn with the addition of Al Huang (mandolin, vocals), and Andy Xue (cello) with original members  Jordan Anderson (banjo, vocals), and Josh Steinbauer (guitar, vocals).

 

If you removed the lyrics from the songs and just listened to the instruments you would find that their Americana/Bluegrass style of music would bring a smile to Ricky Skaggs, or Bill Monroe with all of its banjo, mandolin, and smooth vocal harmonies.

 

The band doesn't stop there though they layer on top of the music their punk attitude lyrics that take this release in an all-new direction. The lyrics for the first 7 songs have their fair-share of curse words so that you won't be hearing them on anything but college or underground radio stations.

 

The band takes on girlfriends, pompous people, people who don't pick up after their dogs, working at a corporate job, the ups and downs of life, religion and last but not least they give rapper Eminem a bitch slap that would make Mike Tyson proud.

 

As you probably figured out by now this is not your average release. This takes probably the most traditional American form of music and stretches it's boundaries like a devilish kid playing with Silly Puddy.

 

There's no middle ground with this band your either going to love their inventive style and wear out the CD from playing it so much or hate it as much as someone making an awful screeching chalkboard sound.

 

Either way one thing that can't be denied is that this group of musicians have talent.

 

Steve Richard Review

Artist: Steve Richard
Title: Steve Richard
Website: http://www.steverichardmusic.com/
Style: Country/ Southern Rock
Rating: 7.95 out of10
By C.W. Ross

 

This is the self-titled debut album from Steve Richard. What you'll find on it is a country artist looking to push the genres boundaries with a significant southern rock musical flavor found on it.

 

When asked about the album's style Richard says,  "The album is about that exciting place where country meets rock and roll, and it's a very 'LIVE' kind of record, with songs that come across very well onstage. The idea was to do songs that tell honest stories which reflect the way I feel whether I wrote the song or not."

 

"My style of music reflects the love I have for bands like Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers, along with classic sounds of George Jones, Waylon Jennings and Buck Owens, to the Cream, Who and The Stones...you've got the picture. It's very much a rocking record, but is completely steeped in country tradition."

 

Richard has also toured the Midwest and South as both a headliner and opening act for Lynyrd Skynyrd, Dickey Betts, .38 Special and Van Zant.

 

The releases first two tracks are all out driving southern rockers, "Faster, Faster" and  "Stomp." It isn't until track-3"Everything Beautiful to Me" that the release lets the country side take the spotlight for a while.

 

Track-5 "Tried-and-True another rocker gets the blood pumping again. Quickly followed by the country bar-rock song, "We Ain't Saints."

 

Track-7 "Make it into Heaven" has a real Jimmy Buffet like tropical island music feel to it. Track-8, "I'll Never Leave You" is the releases only ballad.

 

From there it goes, track-9 pop country, track-10 southern rocker, track-11 country gospel and ends it with track-12 "Write This Song" with it's standard country sound.

 

This release hits most of the marks. The only thing that might turn some people off is the wide variety of different styles ( southern rock, traditional country, modern country, pop, gospel, and island music) found on it that does make it seem a bit schizophrenic at times.

 

Go ahead and get this release and enjoy the music, just be prepared to hit the next track button a time or two.

 

You can view a well done video for the first single, "Faster, Faster" from the album at: 

 

http://ca.youtube.com/watch?v=VQf_iSRiGBY

 

 

Sean Costello-We Can Get Together Review

Artist: Sean Costello
Title: We Can Get Together
Website: http://www.seancostello.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/seancostello
Style: Blues/ Roots Rock
Label: Delta Groove Music
Rating: 9 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Sean started out playing the guitar at the age of nine. Self-taught it didn't take long before his playing got noticed when at age 14 he won the Beal's Street Blues Society's, 'New Talent Award.'

 

Sean released his debut album, Call the Cops in 1996 when he was only 16. Since then he's both released several more of his own albums along with appearing on other artist releases.

 

Sean's latest release, We Can Get Together is jammed pack with the blues along with his signature soul and touches of rock ala classic artist such as, Chuck Berry, Fats Domino, and Jerry Lee Lewis.

 

Here's some of what Sean has to say about his music, "I'll never play the old blues better than the people who invented it...I'm 28 years old, and I need to make my own statement." 

 

Sean tries to walk the fine line of being true to the past while still adding in some modern elements to keep the music fresh sounding.

 

This release takes you on a journey of musical tempos from upbeat hard driving tracks like, "Anytime You Want",  "Same Old Game," and "How in the Devil," to the Gospel inspired "Going Home", along with the ballad, "Have You No Shame."

 

Those of you who read my reviews regularly know that I like it when a release has that little something different and We Can Get Together didn't disappoint me. On the song, "Told Me a Lie" they use a chicken coop to provide a percussion element. I also liked the not often heard outside of a full band instrument the sousaphone.

 

If you're a fan of the blues you need to checkout Sean Costello's music. For me the sign of a good blues guitarist is if they can make the guitar almost come to life and talk to me. On We Can Get Together Sean's guitar speaks loud and clear with a soulful heart.

Andy Juhl -A Simple Life on Land- Review

Artist: Andy Juhl
Title: A Simple Life on Land
Website: http://www.andyjuhl.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/andyjuhl
CDBaby: http://cdbaby.com/cd/andyjuhl
Style: Folk/Rock
Rating: 8.5 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

This is Andy's debut solo album. He's probably best known as the guitarist for the Minneapolis based experimental group the Trimmed Hedges.

 

Besides Andy -(vocals, guitar, banjo, harmonica) you'll also find John Juhl - (drums, percussion, vocals), Brian David -(bass), and Cindy Juhl- (french horn) on the album.

 

From the very first song  "And In The Morning" you can really hear the Neil Young influence to Andy's sound. On several of the songs if I would have received this CD in the mail and listened to it I would have swore I was listening to Neil Young. The folk/rock songs have that genuine story behind them along with an ever-present harmonica work that lights up the songs.

 

All of the songs aren't on the folk side though you also find a couple of them where the electric guitar is cranked up and let loose to play with glee. I also liked the 2 instrumental tracks found on A Simple Life on Land on which the instruments were let loose to showcase their musical talents.

 

The two instruments that get a mention for their fresh and intriguing additions to the CD are the banjo parts found on several of the songs along with the, rarely heard outside of orchestral music french horn, found on the song, "Let's Go Around One More Time." It added a unique element to the song that I enjoyed.

 

If you're a fan of Neil Young's music you'll love this release and even if your not I think that Andy brings enough fresh elements and quality song writing to make it worth getting.

 

Lanae' Hale- EP Review

 

Artist: Lanae' Hale
Title: Lanae' Hale EP
Website: http://www.lanaehale.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/lanaehale
Style: Singer Songwriter
Label: Centricity Records
Rating: 8.9 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

This is the self-titled debut for this 24-year old singer-songwriter from CoCo River Florida now based out of Nashville.

 

This EP features 6 tracks. It starts off with the popish sounding track "Spring Again," a song that deals with life as passing seasons. It then moves quickly into track-2 "Alive Again," that's all about God's grace.

 

On track-3 "Love is Worth the Fight," Lanae' takes a trip to the jazz influenced side of music. Track-4 "Stay" is about hope. Track-5 "Start Over," deals with trying to fit into what the world wants you to be so much that you lose your faith. It all ends with the melodic song "Quiet Place."

 

Lanae' has vocals like that of fine crystal with a wide vocal range. Her vocal's bring each word to life and drives home the song lyric's point.

 

Lanae' uses struggles that she's dealt with in her own life and overcome in her music.

 

Lanae' has overcome being a cutter. She says, " I tried desperately for three years to fix my broken heart by cutting, but only found myself with deeper scars. If not for the grace of God I may not have made it through." She adds that, "more than anything else, I would love to help young girls through my music and my own testimony, so they can see the hope and forgiveness for mistakes. There is a chance fir healing, and that is through the grace of Jesus Christ. I am a living testimony of that!"

 

Lanae' has talent, compassion and a message that need to be heard what more could you ask for from an artist? Do yourself a favor and get onboard the Lanae' Hale musical train.

 

Jacqueline Grace Interview

Jacqueline Grace Interview

By C.W. Ross

 

Jacqueline Grace is in her early 20's and has been blessed with exotic model beauty from her Filipino/ Mexican heritage.

 

But there's much more to Jacqueline then her looks.

 

This singer/songwriter from San Diego started singing at age 5 and was performing onstage by age 11. She was a member of her school music clubs and was often asked to perform at school activities.

 

Throughout her high school years Jacqueline took lead roles in various musical productions at San Diego Junior Theater, where she discovered her true love for performing in front of live audiences. She continued to perform throughout college, and in her senior year was the featured singer at the San Diego Sharp Medical Annual Gala.

 

Jacqueline's debut release is out now and features a blend of singer/songwriter, hip- hop, dance, latin, and pop musical styles.

 

Website- http://www.jacqueline-grace.com

 

MySpace Site: http://www.myspace.com/jacqgrace

 

Below is a recent interview that we done with Jacqueline.

 

1-Your music blends many different styles. How would you describe it?

 

Realistically I'd call it mainstream fusion. My ambition is to take world music elements and make them work for what you hear on the radio. It's been done, don't get me wrong, but I find that usually those elements become a factor in production of the song as opposed to initial influence. If I hear an Indian drum beat, or a Mariachi horn that I like, I try to create a song that implicitly involves that element. The working title I use for what I'm trying to accomplish is "global soul," to create music that moves you that incorporates various cultures. It's a lofty aspiration, but I'd like to think it can be done.

 

2-What affect does your Filipino/Mexican heritage have on your music?

 

Absolutely, although the latter currently is more prevalent than the former. Growing up as a kid I was exposed to the traditional elements of both cultures. Each one is rich in traditional dances and music to go with it. I never took much heed growing up, but now I realize both are great outlets for inspiration. On my first album, I find there are many moments where Latin music becomes the main focus. I'd like to think that what's holding me back right now is I have yet to fully conquer Tagalog (the national language of the Philippines, I think). Once I get a better grasp, I think I can then figure out the true structure of Pinoy songs.

 

3-Where do you draw your inspiration from for your songs?

 

Various places is the short answer. You ask me about each song and you'll get a different response. On my album, for example, inspiration is anything from a movie to a person. I know there are a lot of artists out there who draw specifically from personal experiences. To be honest, if that were my way of approaching music, my album would probably be quite monotonous. Personally I don't feel I have an album's worth of experiences (yet!). So what helped fuel the creation of my songs was a creative story line. I'd find myself telling a story with each song, I'd figure out the protagonist, obstacles, etc. so when the song is done, it resembles some sort of vignette. But I write each song from my perspective, and so I do find each song to be personal.

 

4-What person has influenced your music most?

 

Michael Jackson. I have a list, but his are the cd's i pull up an listen to on iTunes when I'm stuck. I listen to every aspect, from the production and lyric to the delivery and structure. From what I've heard of the man, he is extremely meticulous. But look how it pays off! Each harmony he creates is flawless, the vibratos are in perfect unison..., I digress. But I find that if I'm having trouble with writing a song, or seeing what makes it rock hard, then I look through all my MJ songs, from Jackson 5 to invincible, pick a few that match what I'm trying to accomplish and dissect them.

 

5- What is your favorite song that you've written and what makes it your favorite?

 

Oh, Man. Jeez, one song? I honestly don't have a favorite, but one that constantly sticks out in my mind is "Pandora's Box." Why it is really comes from the fact that it was a song of mine where everything just fell into place. Everything came very quickly and stuck. And at least for me it was a personal conquest because I had been writing all this wordy, intense music, and this was the first mellowed track I produced that I really was proud of.

 

6- Where do you hope to be with your music say 5 years down the road?

 

Still writing for myself and other artists. Constantly collaborating. Touring. And also finding other outlets to showcase my whole "global soul," idea. I've been watching the National Geographic channel and I think should I gain notoriety, I would love to film a series showcasing traditional music from different parts of the world. I've been told Paul Simon did something similar, but I'd make it look good. ;)

 

7- What artist do you enjoy listening to?

 

Ella Fitzgerald, Billy Joel, Michael and Janet, KT Tunstall, Foo Fighters, Frank Sinatra, Dave Matthews Band, Spice Girls (and proud of it!), Fiona Apple, the Beatles, Frank Valli and the Four Seasons, Beyonce, Gloria Estefan,... I think I'll stop now. Recently I've been on a Bjork fix. I love the dynamism.

 

8- If you could sing with any other music artist who would it be?

 

Michael Jackson. That was hard.

 

9- Where can people buy your music?

 

the itunes store, cdbaby.com, and any venue where I'm performing.

 

10- This is the catch-all question, anything we missed that you want to tell the readers?

 

I like long walks on the beach..., just to check out my website, check out my myspace and PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE leave me comments if you'd like. I do read them! Come see me perform and yes; I am going to see the next Indiana Jones installment. I hope to see you there.

 

Fun Questions:

 

 What's your favorite food?

 

Chocolate Chip cookies. Sadly it's more of an addiction.

 

What's the most unusual food that you've ever eaten?

 

Pigs blood and rice. I'm not kidding.

 

What's your favorite TV show?

 

THE X-FILES. I' m the biggest nerd. Surprise!

 

For a vacation would you rather go to the beach or skiing?

 

Beach for sure. I have poor circulation, so it would only be a matter of minutes before I'd be a popsicle.

 

If you were going to be taken to a desert island and you could have only one material thing (not counting any humans or animals) what would it be?

 

Wonder Woman's Invisible jet, fully fueled. You know it exists. ;)

 

Robert "BoBBY" Moore Interview

Robert "BoBBY" Moore Interview

By C.W. Ross

 

Bobby is one of the good guys. Robert "BoBBY" Moore is one of those amazing people who believe that its not how you fall, its how you get up that defines you! Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.) in 1998 it hasn't stopped him.

 

Although he has to deal with the effects that come with having MS (Multiple Sclerosis) he's kept a positive outlook.

 

He says, "My shell is a little tattered but my heart is still gold!" You can see that in the charity giving he gives donating a portion of his proceeds to Feed The Children along with giving his music for free to people in public service realted jobs.

 

I would really encourage you to give Bobby's music a listen and if you like it help him out with a purchase of his music.

 

Website- http://www.bbbbobby.com

 

Before we get to the interview that I recently done with Bobby here's something that I got from his epk (electronic press kit)-

 

Born in St. Louis & raised near Wentzville MO, Robert "BoBBY" Moore gained the reputation as the 2nd best guitarist in town. After being dubed a "Stunning Lead Guitarist" by Jim Marshall, founder of Marshall Amps, BoBBY founded the LACE ENTERAGE band. Shifting from Guitar to Bass & producing the "LACE" album, his inspiration & leadership propelled their regional success! BoBBYs duties on the "LACE 2" album included Drums, Bass, Electric Guitar, Keyboards, Backing Vocals, Engineering & Producing, in addition to growing into the primary songwriter! "LACE 2" was near completion when BoBBY was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (M.S.). In his darkest hours, unable to fret a guitar for more than two minutes at a time, he never gave up hope, he never stopped believing! His love for music & need to express himself served as fuel to drive his recovery from being confined to an electric wheelchair! After nearly a decade of raging against the disease, the music on "CraZzy/ Honestly" is an amazing celebration of life & a testament to his ability to endure & overcome! While he'll probably never get to be the best guitarist in Wentzville MO, as that spot still belongs to Chuck Berry, you can occasionally find him walking down the sidewalks of Hollywood, with a smile on his face, he refers to it as home.

 

Our Interview: 

 

1. It must have been devastating when you got diagnosed with MS (Multiple Sclerosis) ?

 

BoBBY: When I got "the phone call" I remember how shook up my Dr. was at my MRI/Brain scan results. At the time, I had no idea how to spell Multiple Sclerosis much less what it is. So I consoled my Dr., as best as I could, reassuring him that I would be ok. Of course, he knew what was going to happen to my life and I didn't. When you see other peoples brain scans on T.V. it's really no big deal, but when it's your own brain in the picture-it gets kinda scary. Especially the part of the conversation that goes "no-known-cure".

 

2. How does your music help you dealing with your MS?

 

BoBBY: Music is my love! My passion! It's what brings balance to my life! I'm very fortunate to be able to devote as much time to it as I do, because one of the down sides of making music by myself is the extra time it takes to come up with all the other instruments parts. It takes me about a month to write and record each song by myself.

 

3. To someone reading this that hasn't heard your music before how would you describe it?

 

BoBBY: Asking an artist to describe his art is kinda like asking the rain to describe the mud (lol). I'm probably not really the best person to ask. CRAZzy/HONESTLY is actually two projects merged. First I made HONESTLY. It is 3 Acoustic guitar songs that I recorded to see if anybody cared. People were encouraging me to continue so I made CRAZzy, 3 Electric guitar songs. I put them together so that they make the 6 song EP CRAZzy/HONESTLY. For only 6 songs I cover a rather large musical spectrum. I was listening to Kelly Clarkson a lot when I started-not so much when I finished (lol). I just call it rock music.

 

4. With your earlier releases you recorded with an band but on your latest release, CraZzy/Honestly you did everything yourself from the all of the vocals to playing the drums, and electric, acoustic and bass guitars parts. As well as arranging, engineering, mixing & producing it. Was this a planned or did it just happen? If it was planned what made you decide to go the solo route?

 

BoBBY: I actually program the drums on Reason, but no it wasn't planned so much. I was hoping that once I moved to Hollywood someone/anyone (OZZY!) would wanna give me a lot of money to play lead guitar for them (lol), or at the very least I would be able to join a decent band. When that didn't happen, I just started doing my own thing again. I've been producing music for myself, as well as with the band, for a couple of decades now. This is the first time I treated my solo material like it mattered. Usually I save my best music for the band, but they have lives and careers in Missouri and I live 2000 miles away in California. I have produced and performed on several projects for other acts here in Hollywood recently including Ryan Wooton-a country artist, Rich Harter (Harter Attack)-a metal act and Ryan Riddle (BuckFast)- alt rock. .

 

5. Where can people buy your music?

 

BoBBY: I put links on my music page at:http://www.bobby.com/music.htm that go directly to my iTunes and Amazon pages.

 

6. You have a big heart and are going to be donating 10 cents from every CRAZzy/HONESTLY song purchased in 2008 via iTunes & Amazon to Feed The Children. Your also donating your music for free to Military (past & present), Police & Fire Personnel, Doctors, Nurses (their respective staffs) Paramedics, EMT's and their families. Will you tell us about your thoughts behind doing such a generous act?

 

BoBBY: Personally, if it wasn't for Doctors and Nurses I would still be living in an electric wheelchair. So many people have looked out for me, I guess it's about respect. I took a lot of things for granted, before I was diagnosed, that I don't now. So while I'm here and feeling fine I wanna thank them! I had a pretty tough childhood, but it was a walk in the park compared to the kids that Feed The Children helps.

 

7. Anything that we missed that you would like to get out to the readers?

 

BoBBY: Yes, I send about 2000 emails a month to radio station program directors, in North America, urging them to play my music, with little-to-no results. Please contact your favorite local stations and tell them to play my songs! I need all the help that I can get.., Thank You!
BoBBY

 

 

Orange in the Light Interview

Band Orange in the Light Interview

 

By C.W. Ross

 

Short Band Bio:

 

Orange in the Light formed when groupleader Daniel Moir left the band he was with at the time to go solo. He decided he would need some sort of band to play his songs, so he invited drummer Corin Roddick to join. Corin accepted and with him he brought guitarist Matt McKeen. An add was placed for a bassist and Frank Pirker was quickly chosen to join. They were called the Daniel Moir Band.

 

As time went on the four musicians gained more experience with playing with eachother and became a solid four-piece. All members of the band were contributing to the songs and it was decided that the Daniel Moir Band was no longer an fitting name, so after a long period of brainstorming and name natural selection they decided to call themselves "Orange in the Light".

 

MySpace- http://www.myspace.com/danielmoir

 

Orange in the Light Interview:

 

1. With your band's members ranging in age from 16-18 years old how does that affect the band either positively or negatively?

 

Well, we've never had any trouble with playing bars so I can't really think of anything it's stopped us from doing. We've always have somebody to buy the booze cause' Frank is 18 and it's easier to impress a crowd with the younger members, so I guess we kind of get best of both worlds.

 

2. How do you describe your band's music style?

 

On our five song EP the style is generally heavily folk influenced indie-rock. I think it's pretty comparable to Wilco, Elliott Smith, Sufjan Stevens and bands along those lines. Our newer music however has alot more electric-guitar driven dream-pop but still has influences recognizable with our older music.

 

3. What music do you have out now and where can people buy it?

 

Right now our only release is our five song EP which you can buy on itunes, cd baby or scattered around various other online distributors (Verison, Napster etc.). You can find the links on our myspace (http://www.myspace.com/danielmoir). If you live in Edmonton, Alberta though you can buy at most Whyte ave music stores.

 

4. Has the band had any memorable experiences while playing a show?

 

Every one is a craazy adventure!

 

5. What are some of the goals for the band over the next couple of years?

 

Get a new EP released and go on a Canadian tour hopefully. Acquire more fans, all the usual band goals.

 

6. Anything we missed that you would like to tell our readers?

 

Just thanks for reading!

 

Time Life Songs 4 Ever Collection - Review

Artist: Time Life Songs 4 Ever Collection
Title: Love
Website: http://www.timelife.com
Telephone Orders: 1-800-488-4669
Style: Pop/Rock
Rating: 9.4 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

For those of you new to the site I've been reviewing the Time Life's Songs 4 Ever 10 CD set. Although the collection is a boxed set of 10 that covers Christian music from the last two decades I've decided to review each CD found in the set individually.

 

There's just too much good music to lump all into one review.

 

So far I've reviewed the Shout and Worship CD's from the set.  Since it's February and this month includes Valentines Day what a perfect time to review the Love CD from the set.

 

Before I put this CD in my player or even looked at the list of songs on it I thought that it would be filled with sappy love songs nothing could be further from the truth. Instead it's filled with powerful often-upbeat songs that deal with both human and God's love.

 

Each song is a hit that I'm sure you've heard playing from your radio speakers.

 

The list of artist that have songs on this CD is, Toby Mac, MercyMe, Chris Tomlin, Casting Crowns, The Afters, Newsboys, Third Day, Joy Williams, Jars of Clay, Israel and New Breed, Bebo Norman, Passion Worship Band, Stacie Orrico, Brian Littrell, and Mark Harris.

 

As I listened to each song I kept waiting to hear that one song that was just added to fill up space but it never happened. This release is filled with 15 songs that all hit the mark.

 

This CD will have you singing along with it while bringing a smile to your face. I keep saying it, but it's true, you need to add this 10-CD set to your music library. Time Life's Songs 4 Ever series is a must buy!

 

Running Still Review

Artist: Running Still
Title: Running Still
Website: http://www.runningstillmusic.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/runningstillmusic
Style: Alternative/ Rock
Rating: 8.4 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Running Still is the self-titled debut release from this Brooklyn, NY based alt. rock quartet, Asi Meskin (vocals, acoustic guitar, keys), Ben Zwerin (bass, back vocals), Chris Higginbottom (drums, back vocals) and Raed Khazen (guitars).

 

The band lists their musical influences as, Pink Floyd, Coldplay, Radiohead, The Beatles, U2, Tears for Fears, Damien Rice, Kings of Leon, David Bowie, and Paul Simon.

 

Running Still is filled with songs that have a heart. Asi Meskin's vocals reach out and either pull at your heart strings tenderly or crushes them with each new song. The lyrics are filled with anger, frustration and cynicism at the same time holding a hope out for the future.

 

If his hypnotic vocals don't grab your attention then the riveting guitar work will take control of you. The guitar work ranges from melodic acoustic to electric rockers.

 

The drum parts are like the rear driver on a ladder fire truck keeping everything going smoothly, but often going unnoticed. If there wasn't one their though like the truck that would sway wildly from side-to-side so would the music.

 

The band spent much of 2007 in the recording studio and is looking forward to playing live again. Over their short time the band has already built up a reputation as a must see live band.

 

Running Still offers up loads of good music that has a familiar sound yet with new elements added in that move their sound forward making it both fresh and unique.

 

Jon Augustine- Carry Me Home Review

 

Artist: Jon Augustine
Title: Carry Me Home
Website: http://www.jonaugustine.com
Style: Gospel Blues
Label: Confession Records
Rating: 8.8 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Some older readers might remember Jon from his 1991 5-episode run on the TV talent show Star Search. Jon made it to the semi-finals and received accolades like, "one of the best discoveries of the year."

 

Then in 2004 he Won Ryan Seacrest's "Be A Star" Contest on L.A. Radio Station STAR 98.7 winning prizes like $10,000 in cash, a Volkswagen Beetle, and a demo produced by Hollywood Records.

 

Fast-forward to June 2007, Jon won the grand prize at the Ignition Showcase in Northern California.  The competition featured singers, songwriters, bands, hip-hop artists and various independent Christian artists from Central and Northern California.  As a result of winning Jon will be featured on a compilation style release along with several other grand prizewinners.

 

Jon is working on a new album due to come out sometime in late 2008 until then you can enjoy Jon's solo debut release Carry Me Home which was released in 2006. What you'll find on it is a blend of more traditional gospel songs along with some blues-pop rockers.

 

Jon collaborates with Northern California Christian blues veteran Will Derryberry who recorded, engineered, mixed and mastered the CD at his studio located in California.

 

Carry Me Home kicks-off with the piano rich traditional song, "What Is Fellowship" with Jon's soulful vocals taking full reign over the song.

 

My favorite songs found on this release tended to be the more upbeat ones that had my toes tapping and had the feel of an upbeat church service.

 

I also really enjoyed title track, "Carry Me Home." I'm not positive but I'm pretty sure that I've heard this song playing on my radio tuned to a Christian station several times. This soulful number talks about finding strength in sorrow and joy in the pain and concludes with a nice vocal harmony.

 

I really liked what I heard on Carry Me Home and look forward to hearing what musical golden nuggets his next release will offer up.

 

 

Garry Segal- Taking Notes Review

Artist: Garry Segal
Title: Taking Notes
Website: http://www.todyeforband.com
Style: Roots Rock / Americana 
Rating: 8.25 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

After 20 years of musical success recording and touring with his rock/blues band Garry and the Moodswingers, Garry has decided to embark on a solo career.

 

Taking Notes offers up a very interesting collection of musical styles on its 7-tracks of music.

 

The release starts-off with "Two Broken People" a root's rocker with acoustic guitar, piano and organ driving its steady beats.

 

Track-2 "Wrong Dogs"- is a dobro filled swamp music song that has campy-humor lyrics.

 

Track-3 "Without Rain" breaks out the soul of country music the pedal steel.  This melodic song also features nice sweet harmony vocals from Joan Schroeder that work well against Garry's vocals with their slightly grizzled edge.

 

Track-4 "I Keep Drinkin', " takes a trip down the jazzy-blues road with its smoky sax and jazzy guitar solo. The song also features both an interesting intro and outro of whistling.

 

Track-5 "Wind Will Blow," breaks out the mandolin and banjo for a visit to bluegrass music land. 

 

Track-6 "Cartwheels" is where Garry starts to let his stellar harmonica work come out in this melodic blues song.

 

Garry's harmonica playing has earned him an endorsement deal with the world renowned Hohner Harmonica.

 

The CD finishes up with track-7 "Everything's Jake" an instrumental track where each instrument takes its turn in the song's musical spotlight.

 

I liked all 7 songs found on Taking Notes with the wide variety of styles that worked together thanks to Garry's lyrics that are filled with talk of failed dreams, humor, and hope.

Rob Saffi and the Odd Breed- Review

Artist: Rob Saffi and the Odd Breed
Title:  Rob Saffi and the Odd Breed
Website: http://www.robsaffi.com
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/robsaffi
Style: Rock/ Blues
Rating: 9 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Rob Saffi and the Odd Breed is, Rob Saffi (vocals, guitars), Stu Weinberg (bass), and Darrell Long (drums). Saffi began taking the stage in Providence, RI in 2003 garnering regional success before deciding in 2005 to move to New York City.

 

Once there he started playing on street corners and subway platforms before becoming a regular on the West Village's music scene headlining at local haunts like, The Bitter End, Kenny's Castaways, and The Lions Den.

 

Rob Saffi and the Odd Breed play a blend of rock n' roll with a blues side. The 9 songs found on this the self-titled debut release from the band feature really interesting guitar parts and song arrangements.

 

The lyrics are real life and deal with hope and false hopes that some people have dreamed up in their minds. Saffi's vocals are gritty and have a earned street cred to them.

 

When asked about the album, "Starting out," Saffi says, "I knew I wanted out of my hometown, and there was more to life than I saw there, but that was about as far as I thought it out.  So I moved (to New York), picked up odd jobs, played where I could, and wrote under streetlamps, trying to find my voice and where I fit.  This album is what I wrote under those streetlamps.  This album is that voice."

 

This isn't fancy music this is dirt under your fingernails style of music that's real and hits a home run.  Do yourself a big favor and get this release soon.

Firebred Interview

Christian Hard Rock Band Firebred Interview

 

By C.W. Ross

 

1-Stylistically how do you describe your music?

 

This a question we get asked a lot. And it is hard to really nail it down without it being heard. It's like taking the older style of Metallica, mixing them with bands some bands of today like Saliva, and all of them getting saved and worshiping God with there entire being.

 

2-What bands have influenced your music?

 

We grew up listening to the metal of the 80s like Metallica, Megadeth, Deliverance, Stryper, Barren Cross and so on, so you can hear a lot of that style in some of our songs.

 

3-Will you tell us about the ministry part of your band?

 

This is an easy one for me (Garrett) to answer. Think for a min of a field ripe for the harvest. There's a huge combine rolling across the field gathering much of the harvest. The field being the lost souls, and the combine being the church. And while the combine gathers most of the harvest, because of it's size and maneuverability it leaves the four corners of the field un touched. This is where the ministry of FIREBRED comes in. We are reaching the people the church can't get to. In bars, clubs, the guys who would never come to a church.

 

4-Where do you see the band 5 years down the road?

 

Wherever God chooses. Doing the same thing we are doing now but on a much larger level. We have a few things we will be adding to the Firebred list this coming year including a video, and theatrical stage show. Which will truly enhance the ministry. And we are now in talks with a new label, management team, and a&r. So who knows.

 

5-What effect has the Internet had on your music?

 

It has had a major effect. We have been doing this ministry for 8 years. And only been online for the past 3. Our ministry opportunities have more than quadrupled since. As for cd and music is concerned we sold about 530 of our first cd. After going online we have had over 25000 single song downloads, and around 18000 cd downloads. Not to mention the unknown amount of ringtones that can be downloaded for free on our website.

 

6-You have some big shows upcoming can you tell us about them?

 

Oh yeah. April 26th we will be playing the the second anual IMPACT event in Westminister SC with Ayiesha Woods, and others. Tony Nolan will be the guest speaker at this all ages free event. June 14th on the Boardwalk in Caroline beach NC we will have the awesome oppertunity of sharing the stage with one of the bands I grew up listening to. Barren Cross. This Event Battle On The Atlantic will feature 10 bands including Disciple, 7 Method, Crucial, Broken and several others. You don't want to miss this one. We will be shooting live video at both of these for our new dvd, so be there.

 

7-What CD's do you have for sale? Where can people buy them?

 

We'll like I said we are working on a new cd. It should be ready mid April. But in the mean time you can order a copy of our first cd CHAPTER 3, or Set The World On Fire by shooting us a line through either our website
http://www.firebred.com
or
http://www.myspace.com/firebredrocks

 

8- Anything we missed that you would like to share with the readers?

 

We would like to give a shout out to all the bands out there that are keeping it real. Bands that don't back down on preaching the Gospel just to get the radio plays and cd sells. Keep rocking for the ROCK.

 

Officer Roseland- Blast-Off for Kicksville Review

Artist: Officer Roseland
Title: Blast-Off for Kicksville
Website: http://officerroseland.com/
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/officerroseland
Style: Rock/ Pop Punk
Rating: 7.95 out of 10
By C.W. Ross

 

Officer Roseland is a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania band that plays a blend of rock that has many influences including, funk, punk, jazz, soul and country.

 

The band's lineup is, Dan Daidone (vocals, bass), Brian Jones (guitar, keyboards), Harry Grannis (bass, guitar),  and John Ilisco Jr. (drums, percussion).

 

The 10-tracks found on Blast-Off for Kicksville are for the most part upbeat and filled with little nuances and arrangements that are fresh and keep you guessing in which direction their going.

 

The band pulls on a wide variety of musical styles blending them together to create a familiar yet with something a little bit different end sound.

 

The band has an offbeat sense of humor that run like a thread throughout the song's lyrics.

 

Stylistically several of the songs like "Juggler's Despair" have a definite Talking Heads feel to them. The release ends with the two songs, "Farmer Brown (No2)" and "Cookie Puss," that have a touch of a rockabilly flavor to them.

 

The band's music has been played on the TV channel's- Comedy Central, The Weather Channel, and PBS. 

 

Blast-Off for Kicksville, was released in January 2007 and the band already has plans to enter the studio in March to start work on their next release.

 

If you're in Puerto Rico the band will be playing several live shows there in February.

 

I found Officer Roseland's music to be entertaining and look forward to hearing the musical treasures that will be found in their next release.