FM102x Song of the Day

Sleeper Cell Crew - SunShine

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 01:00:00 -0800

Filled with an abundance of energy and passion, Sleeper Cell Crew is a collaboration of emcees and producers looking to emerge in the hip hop world. By definition, a sleeper cell is a small group of people that belongs to a large organization, usually in reference to a terrorist group. The cell /"sleeps/" (lies dormant) inside a population until it decides to act. The group loosely bases their name on this description; relating the hip hop community as the large organization and replacing acts of terror with great music. Furthermore, the sleep reference also relates to the common mentality in the local area that /"Naptown/" emcees are being slept on as a whole.

The Time is Now is Sleeper Cell/'s debut full-length studio release which features 16 riveting songs that inspire listeners to get up and move to the rhythm. With a strong sound that captures the true essence of hip hop the album hits on a vast array of topics. The Time is Now shows that the group has confidence in their art and displays a passion that is energetic to anyone is willing to give it a listen. The album is filled with a variety of songs and is sure to create a stir.

Sleeper Cell
Hip-Hop, Rap
sleepercellcrew.com

Likeblood - Drop

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 00:13:00 -0800

Being from Washington, D.C., the nation/'s #1 most watched political center and birthplace of Go-go, a musical subculture which has influenced Hip-Hop since its nascence nearly 30 years ago, automatically raises the stakes for any emcee. Even with all of this in hand, the true voice of D.C. Hip-Hop has yet to be defined, and for the district/'s premier rap group, Likeblood, establishing that voice has always been paramount. As a true personification of the rarely-seen culture of the nation/'s capital, which has been ingrained in the group since their youth growing up on the streets of D.C., Likeblood genuinely brings a unique sound and experience to the Hip-Hop game.

Likeblood
Hip Hop, Rap
myspace.com/likebloodentertainment

Darci Monet - Raging

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 00:55:00 -0800

Darci Monet is a classically and commercially trained professional vocalist, vocal coach, independent recording artist and award-winning songwriter. She gave her first professional performance at age eleven in Upstate New York in a local production of /"Annie/", began her professional career during college at Belmont University in Nashville as a studio singer, songwriter and recording artist and continues now in Los Angeles.

Darci/'s vocal credits include principal performances in film and television (/"Napoleon Dynamite/", /"How I Met Your Mother/"), live performances and master recording sessions with major label artists (Dolly Parton, Steve Winwood, Amy Grant, The Judds, etc.), songwriter demos (ABC sitcom /"Hope and Faith/") and national ads (Subway Corporation). Live, Darci currently performs backup for top ten Billboard-charting dance diva/rocker Debby Holiday.

Songs she has written have been featured in indie movies and major network television shows (/"Kiss The Bride/" starring Tori Spelling, /"The Apprentice/", /"The Young & The Restless/", /"Days of Our Lives/"), won awards and honorable mentions in prestigious songwriting competitions (Unisong Songwriting Contest, Great American Song Contest, Billboard Songwriting Contest), and have been cut on major label albums (Music With A Twist, distributed by Columbia).

Stepping out from behind the scenes, Darci has just finished her new CD, which was released on May 12, 2009. Fusion seamlessly brings together /"Rock Chick-Darci/" and /"Coffeehouse-Darci,/" like a Kelly Clarkson, Eva Cassidy and Ann Wilson sandwich with a side of Aretha. She explains, “This project represents what I feel are the two strongest sides of me as a musician and writer. I decided that if I was going to take on the monumental task of recording an album again, I’d want both sides represented. So, ‘side A’ is the full band, full production pop/rock with a splash of soul I’m already known for. ‘Side B’ represents the quiet side that before now has mostly revealed itself in collaborations I’ve done on other artists’ projects.” Tracks featured on the album were written with Levi Kreis (on whose critically acclaimed albums One of the Ones and The Gospel According to Levi she is prominently featured as a writer and vocalist), Debby Holiday, Jeff Fedak, Chris Mitchell and Brandon Harvey. Fusion was produced by Darci and Steve Gryphon (Avril Lavigne, Gavin DeGraw, Debby Holiday), with pre-production by Ron Jagger (Michael W. Smith, dc Talk).

Darci Monet
Pop, Rock
myspace.com/darcimonet

Tahni Handal - That's Who I Am

Tue, 03 Nov 2009 00:31:00 -0800

A beautiful mix of styles. Blues meets folk meets rock with rich harmonies. Tahni began playing piano at the age of eight, eventually switching to guitar. From an early age she loved the pop vocals of The Beatles and the soulful blues of Stevie Ray Vaughan.

At the age of 17 Tahni took to the city to begin her music career. Almost immediately she joined all-girl heavy metal band Tantrum as lead guitarist. She spent the next four years opening for bands like Ratt, Queensryche, Exciter and Y&T, sharing practice space with Mötley Crüe. She played regularly on the world-famous Sunset Strip and around Los Angeles, at legendary places like Gazzarri/'s, The Whiskey, The Country Club and The Troubadour. She also appeared in the 1983 cult classic /"Get Crazy/" with Malcolm McDowell, Lou Reed, Lee Ving and John Densmore.

Tahni Handal
Pop, Rock
tahnihandal.com

Downcast Theory - Forgive Me

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 00:38:00 -0800

Downcast Theory provides the ultimate hard rock experience, combining driving guitar riffs with soaring, powerful vocals. The raw energy of their live show brings their music to life, creating an experience only attained by being on the front lines. Their time has come. The Downward Spiral Has Begun.
Downcast Theory, based in Central New Jersey, first came together in June of 2007.

What began as an informal acoustic project between long-time friends Matt Simon (Lead Vocals) and Jake Raynor (Lead Guitar), soon launched itself into a rapidly growing hard-rock collaboration. Over the course of the next few months, Matt “Raundawg” Raunick (Drums) joined the duo after sporadic stints in a number of local bands, and after a frustrating search, the elusive Kenny Earl (Bass) became the missing piece that finalized the lineup.

Front-man Matt Simon credits the band’s rapidly growing success to their dynamic chemistry and their ability to work cohesively as a band. Keeping original membership has been an important part of their growth as a band and as artists. Downcast Theory’s style is heavily influenced by hard-rock powerhouses Sevendust, Shinedown, Breaking Benjamin, and Seether.

Every song is painstakingly crafted to create the best sound to the greatest effect. No vocal is written without careful consideration. No instrument is left unnoticed. Their music was made to be heard.

Downcast Theory
Rock, Alternative
myspace.com/downcasttheory

Cheryl Catherine Smith - Why Does She Hate You?

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 01:13:00 -0700

Canadian Singer/Songwriter Cheryl Catherine Smith has been in the /"entertainment biz/" ever since she was 16 years old with a variety of experience as: a Radio Show Host (C-ISL AM, Vancouver); Singer; Actress (film & TV); and International Print & Runway Model (John Casablancas, June Dally Watkins.) Cheryl returned to her original & strongest passion (MUSIC!) as a professional musician in 2000 and has lately been focusing on her original career, together with her co-creative partner Kevin Swain, with the 2009 Release of her new debut CD /"Cheryl Catherine Smith./"

Cheryl Catherine Smith
Rock, Pop
myspace.com/cherylcatherinesmithfans

The Commercial Underground - It's Just Fine

Thu, 29 Oct 2009 00:54:00 -0700

Erupting from the volcanic town of Bend, Oregon, The Commercial Underground have created their own sound called Vibrant Rock. It is a collaboration of heavy melodic guitars, a thunderous rhythm section, and soaring vocals.

The concept of the band lies within their name. While drawing from such musical influences as rock, blues, classical, funk, and country, the band remains open to experimentation in the studio. Live is another matter, where the intent is focused on high energy, heavy Rock and Roll. The songs are upbeat, positive, with more arpeggiated riffs than power chords, along with high range vocals on top of driving beats.

The Commercial Underground
Rock
thecommercialunderground.com

Melissa "Cha~Cha" Figueroa - Waiting

Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:04:00 -0700

Coming from the W. 25th projects of Cleveland, Ohio this star in the making was surrounded by many family musicians and singers. Once enrolled in Cleveland’s prestigious Karamu House, Cha~Cha honed her skills as she took singing, acting, and dancing classes. Also, becoming a community activist, this wonderful talent vowed to keep kids off drugs and off the streets.

In 2004, she wooed the likes of one of the most famous judging trios known in America today, Randy, Paula and Simon. Cha~Cha went on to Hollywood as one of Ohio’s top finalist for American Idol.

Cha~Cha signed with Visible Lyrics Record Company in 2007. Since, she’s become one of the most sought after artist for collaborations. CEO Lolita Darlese Swain says, “Cha~Cha is a Hook Master to say the least. Her writing skills are phenomenal!” Working diligently on her music and performance, Visible Lyrics decided to drop her first single “Click Grind” in April 2008 to rave reviews. A youtube instructional video and a underground video followed which opened the doors to a worldwide fan base for Cha~Cha.

Melissa /"Cha~Cha/" Figueroa
Singer/Songwriter, Pop
myspace.com/mesa1s2sing

Liquid Sun - Spaz

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 00:31:00 -0700

Liquid Sun was formed in Greensboro, NC in 2008. Their unparalleled style and originality is what makes them the best group you’ll ever hear. The group has four totally different components that make up their fantastic group. The first member is CJ Gaston (Skhyzo) Born in May of 1988 in Los Angeles, California and began his passionate music career ten years later. He moved to Denver, Colorado in 1999 where in 2000 he met the next member of the group Marcus Steward (J-Smizz). Marcus was born in March of 1990 in Decatur, Georgia. Marcus had been working on his music career prior to meeting CJ, but it was only after these two met that that they create a tremendous musical fusion that would propel them to the next level. Seven years later CJ went off to college at North Carolina A&T State University where he met a local Spoken word Poet named David Russell (VO). David was born in August of 1988 in Greensboro, NC. David grew-up in Greensboro doing spoken word for numerous years before he and CJ met on campus in a dorm. CJ and David began making music as they formed the original group “the Spades.” They began to get a buzz around campus for being the most entertaining and lyrical group on campus.

Two Years after CJ and David Met Marcus was Accepted to North Carolina A&T State University and enrolled to not only get an education but to continue his ever successful music career with CJ and David. When the three first got together, it was unclear how all of their unique backgrounds were going to mesh together. But as time passed, over a semester they grew closer and found fusion and chemistry between them that would get them the attention they needed. They found themselves a DJ By the name of Mario Month (DJ SuperMario) to help out the performance aspect of the group but one who has proven to be much more in their journey. Mario was born in September of 1985 in New Jersey and relocated to Greensboro, North Carolina in 1993 with his father. Beginning his music career at the age of 11, he/'s had four independent album releases and has been featured on numerous mixtapes around North Carolina. So again welcome to the page, enjoy the music, support them and join them on their journey to stardom.

Liquid Sun
Hip Hop, Rap
myspace.com/officialliquidsun

Lost July - Red Lights

Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:13:00 -0700

New to the Austin music scene Lost July quickly became noticed. They played at the 2009 South by Southwest and play shows regularly around the city. Their melodic sound has their fans wanting more. Their Chasing Red Lights EP released in April /'09 has been spread all across the southern United States after taking a tour to the University of Florida. Lost July hopes to positively influence their listeners through their music and lyrics. Anyone that sees a live show can tell you that these guys have great talent and a passion for music. That being said, their live show is consistent with the philosophy found in the lyrics to one of their songs: /"tonight, we live in this moment./"

Lost July
Alternative, Rock
myspace.com/lostjulymusic

Voice of Addiction - The Walls

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 00:19:00 -0700

Describing V.O.A. is a challenge of its own. The band is comprised of three different and distinct personalities which give them such an eclectic feel, although they come together musically with such precision and direction. V.O.A.’s dynamic progressions and abrupt starts and stops put them in a unique category all their own. A piece of Voice Of Addiction which is truly original is the melodic, harmonic and rhythmic rises and falls that the band demands. The intricate writing and musicianship that is brought out through their collective formal training, and the emotion that is portrayed while performing their songs makes this band stand out in the crowd.

Voice Of Addiction is determined to keep moving on to bigger and better challenges. Whatever it may be, it will be found, overcome, and put to rest by perseverance, dedication and cooperation. To all audiences everywhere; keep your ears to the ground and your fists in the air……...it’s never too late to start a revolution!

Voice of Addiction
Rock, Punk
myspace.com/voiceofaddiction

Dave Power - Lovestruck

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 01:09:00 -0700

Hailing from the beautiful east coast of Australia, singer/songwriter Dave Power brings a new sound that reveals his passion for life, love and his family. Power draws inspiration from a wide range of artists such as Bob Dylan, John Mayer, Chris Isaac, Dave Matthews and James Taylor. He became serious about performing while also succeeding in an IT career and raising a young family. After years of solid performing and strong sales of self-produced home recordings, Power has realised that the public’s enjoyment in his style is strong and clear.

Now, Power is poised to release his finest work - his highly anticipated original EP, “Addiction”. Teaming up with one of Australia’s most exciting young producers, James North, “Addiction” packs an impressive punch. Described as a rich and organic tapestry of love songs and meaningful stories, “Addiction” sets out to charm and hook the listener.

Dave Power
Singer/Songwriter, Rock
myspace.com/davepowermusic

Vagus - I'm Not Leaving

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 00:55:00 -0700

Original rock music that combines classic and modern rock that gives Vagus a sound all its own.

Started in Baltimore in 2004 Vagus (pronounced /"vegas/") has seen many recreations since the bands/' inception. However the music has always spoken for itself and the members have always stayed true to the vision of Vagus. From the long practices in a run down warehouse in West Baltimore to headlining gigs and appearing on local radio shows, Vagus is determined in 2009 to take the band to the next level. The Vagus nerve is the tenth of the twelve cranial nerves.

Vagus
Rock, Alternative

myspace.com/vagusx

Brian Mackey - Come Out of the House

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 00:44:00 -0700

Brian Mackey, in his own words, a manic romantic, says, /"He/'s in love with the idea of love./" Every long winding search of dead ends, broken relationships and struggles could make it easy for someone to just give up. But Brian shows /"all of us/". From age 5, a small scrawny boy with dirty red glasses and white briefs sat at an out-of-tune piano and did his best John Lennon.

He didn/'t come from the best of childhoods, but as the great Frank Mc Court would say, /"a normal childhood is hardly worth your while/". Brian spent a lot of time in the South, in a town called Havana, Florida. Surrounded by beautiful land and paddle-weilding principles that were eager to dole out the corporal punishment, he reflects now with song and lyric. Brian is currently recording his debut album, Feng Shui for Slobs (c)

Brian Mackey
Pop, Rock
myspace.com/brimackey

Shiva Love - Green

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 00:32:00 -0700

Branded as /"one of the most refreshing new faces in music/", John Boyd is making his mark on the scene quickly and, as he would prefer it, ever so quietly. Recent reviews have compared his soulful style to such icons as Nick Drake and the Cowboy Junkies with one critic firmly declaring Boyd to be the unspoken love child of Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell.

Born in Toronto Ontario, John grew up no stranger to extremely hard times. Although he speaks little of his past, carefully choosing his words and the stories he wishes to tell, it does shed some light on where his muse for songwriting originates. Listen to any track on his debut CD (See My Cat) and you get the feeling you/'re eavesdropping on a man sitting peacefully in some room, strumming calmly on an old guitar, playing songs for no one but himself. Miraculously, any drums or bass that find their way into a song are almost instantaneously tuned out until all you/'re left with is the sound of a gentle man - exposed, shy, magnetic and terribly complex.

Shiva Love
Singer/Songwriter, Pop
myspace.com/whoisjohnboyd

Mitch Gunz - My Super Woman

Fri, 16 Oct 2009 01:33:00 -0700

Mitch Gunz is poised to join the greats in the Pop and R&B industry. His smooth voice and stage presence are undeniable. In an era when everyone seems to be hell bent on disrespecting our most precious resources, namely our mothers, grandmothers, daughters, wives and girlfriends, Mitch Gunz puts down a righteous anthem extolling the virtues of all the /"Superwomen/" in his life, and makes it as melodic as a Minnie Riperton high note and as smooth as an Al Green riff, all the while retaining thaturban swag he is known for in his live performances.

Mitch Gunz
Hip Hop, R&B
myspace.com/rellakamitchellgunz

Deedee Kirby - Be Sure

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 01:58:00 -0700

Her voice is beautiful and has an incredible range. Just when you think you/'ve grasped Deedee Kirby/'s ability, she lets out a note far beyond your scope. If it’s your first time hearing her, you’ll anticipate her next song. She’s one you can listen to all day.

She/'s a graduate of the high school for performing arts in Dallas where Norah Jones, Kirk Whalum, and Erykah Badu were schooled. Her talent has taken her into varying genres with a wide range of audiences.

She’s a new lyricist, her writings reflect honesty about life and love, to which all can relate. Enjoy her recordings here. You/'ll love her live.

Deedee Kirby
Soul, Singer/Songwriter
myspace.com/deedeekirby

Jon Drake & The Shakes - Elizabeth Johnston

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 00:36:00 -0700

Jon Drake & The Shakes ARE: electrifying, captivating, and a lot of fun. Jon Drake & The Shakes ARE: New Orleans stomp meets Chicago back alley. Jon Drake & The Shakes ARE good looking cats who will drink beer with you on the porch and swap stories.

Jon Drake has been writing, recording, and performing for more than a decade in various rock, punk, and folk bands. Jon Drake & The Shakes have graciously accepted invitations to: The Double Door, The Empty Bottle, Martyr/'s, The Elbo Room, The Beat Kitchen, Quenchers, Morseland, The Whistler, Ronny/'s, and many more.

Jon Drake & The Shakes
Americana, Folk
myspace.com/jondrake

The Dime - Blue Galaxy

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:53:00 -0700

Coming out of Richmond, California a city of hope and pain, promise and despair, The Dime lives the struggle for the ones who struggle to live. Richmond, Ca can be the most beautiful, most tumultuous Eden on the planet. Which in all helps create the foundation for The Dimes music and vision. To sum it up their sound is, “Beautifully-grimey”. Raised on old soul classics and true Hip Hop, Chioke and Night Shift in grain music into their projects, soul into their lyrics. Also, besides being lyrically gifted The Dime will sing and harmonize their own melodies and hooks. Night Shifts adds to the flair with vocal rawness as he belts out Blue Room notes to the ladies all in the same set.

The Dimes live shows have become know for it’s one the most theatrical performances to hit the stage in a long time. They have had actual chess matches unfold onstage as they rhyme and serenade the audience to the perfect melody. The Dime is an experience to behold. From rough lyrics about home and the world to melodic tones which intice, The Dime stands alone as they continue to rise.

The Dime
Hip Hop, Soul
myspace.com/thedimemusic

The Fire Apes - Only You Could Make Me Happy

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 00:52:00 -0700

Top-notch, Brit-inspired, crunchy pop gems from the /'Apes! This is Power Pop of the highest order by one of the best in the Power Pop biz right now that features lots of guitars and hooks on top of hooks! The feel of the music is most commonly considered to be reminiscent of such bands as The Beatles, Green Day, Oasis, The Kinks, and The Pretenders.

The Fire Apes understand what the British pop invasion was about and yet transcend the past and merge it with the future. Following their debut CD, /"A Perfect Day for Bananafish/", and their critically acclaimed sophomore effort, /"Central Park Carousel/", The Fire Apes have recently completed a new self-titled EP. The melody driven songs that have been the hallmark of The Fire Apes have become a bit more edgy and contemporary.

The Fire Apes
Powerpop, Rock
MySpace

Becca Gohn - Go On

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:10:00 -0700

Becca Gohn is an emerging artist and singer-songwriter whose voice captures both the sweet innocence of pop artists like Donna Lewis and the flirtatious brassiness of singers like Billie Holiday . Her distinctive song-writing blends thought-provoking lyrics and engaging melodies with her unique and captivating vocals, giving rise to an overall musical style that offers a fresh take on adult contemporary music.

Becca recently wrapped up her most recent venture, a five song EP recorded at Morning Star Studios with Grammy® Award-winning producer Glenn Barratt. /"Glimpse/" is a five song collection of creative and memorable songs that will inspire and warm your heart.

Becca Gohn
Singer/songwriter, Adult Contemporary
beccagohn.com

Fat Opie - New Orleans

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:34:32 -0700

Based in San Francisco, FAT OPIE began recording and touring in 1994. Their debut CD “Biscuits” led to a management deal with Lookout Management in LA. In 1996, they released “Hipsters, Freaks, Fags & Homeboys”. The “HIPSTERS” record introduced the varied instrumentation including banjos, mandolin, accordion and Moog pedals. The band toured extensively for the record and gained West Coast airplay and national press including an article in ALTERNATIVE PRESS MAGAZINE. The “Airstream” CD in 1999 was the most ambitious project and they brought in a co-producer/engineer named Arjan McNamara. A more complex record both in songwriting and production, it gave FAT OPIE their two biggest successes. The song “Bullets in My Briefcase” won a national band search sponsored by 7-UP/SONICNET which included a prize of $15,000. The song “Mouth Like a Trucker” was featured in the motion picture ALONG THE WAY.

FAT OPIE disbanded amicably in 2001. In 2003, Scott Mickelson, Robin Hildebrant and Dave Tavel reunited without the former guitarist and created OTIS, which was an acoustic trio. Soon after, Mickelson became ill and the music stopped until 2007 when Hildebrant began building his own recording studio. Inspired by the new possibilities, Mickelson began writing their strongest material to date. Now utilizing the same varied instrumentations and far-reaching production they are back as FAT OPIE.
Although the band has recently been invited to showcase, they are currently devoting all efforts into a new full length CD with performances to follow.

FAT OPIE
Alternative, Rock
myspace.com/fatopie

Go Time! - Broken Retrofit

Wed, 07 Oct 2009 00:15:00 -0700

Taking power pop to less-traveled latitudes, Chicago-based GO TIME! is thrilled to announce the release of their debut CD, Speak.

While the band is new, its four members are no strangers to the Chicago music scene. GO TIME! is comprised of former Prairie Town members Scott Niekelski (composer/roaring guitars/vocals), Marko Marketti (blasting bass) and Steve Grzenia (pounding percussion). After a year-long search for a guitarist to complement Scott’s thunderous style, Paul Schmidt climbed aboard the GO TIME! Winnebago, bringing along a unique, polished style of his own to the mix.

Schmidt’s professional music career dates back to the late 90s, launching with Central Illinois band, The Cromulents, in which he was both a guitarist and drummer. Paul switched to full-time guitar duties in 2000 when he formed One Million Monkeys with a former bandmate. He worked on several other projects through 2004 when he decided to take a break from music. In 2008, his longings for a creative outlet got the best of him, so Paul began playing Open Mics and worked on home recordings. In August of 2008, he answered an online ad for a band seeking an experienced guitarist…and the rest is history.

GO TIME! officially formed in October of 2007, when Prairie Town amicably disbanded after a two-decade run. Lead singer/composer Paul Coady moved on to new projects, so the three remaining members (Niekelski, Marketti and Grzenia) decided to re-direct the ship and voyage off into uncharted waters.

The transition was actually quite smooth, since Niekelski had already been writing about half of the former band’s recordings and was a solid vocalist in his own right. The trio was like-minded in their musical tastes, so settling into a harder-edged, power pop groove came quite naturally. The only hurdles that lay ahead were to fill in the gap for the missing guitar and to identify the new GO TIME! sound. Once Paul came onboard, his intricate transitional additions and blues-influenced lead work really helped propel the band to the next level and establish the band’s overall sound.

Go Time!
Rock, Alternative
myspace.com/gotimeband1

Chris Crow - All That's Left

Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:03:00 -0700

Chris Crow is a working musician/singer/songwriter, hailing from the Panhandle of Texas. He currently calls Lubbock home and after several years has risen from the dirt of a dust -bowl baptism to form his own unique brand of steady acoustic rock with a touch of what you might call Texas Soul and Jazz.

His first Ep “Roll With The Punches” is a strong introduction to Crow’s fervent musical blessings. Produced by Johnny Mulhair, who struck platinum with Lee Ann Rimes debut album “Blue”, “Roll With The Punches” features 5 original songs with an upbeat soul filled backdrop painted behind genuine heartfelt lyrics. The Ep is available on ITUNES, AMAZON, and CD BABY.

Chris Crow
Singer/Songwriter, Acoustic
myspace.com/listen2chriscrow

Monica Attell - Sunny Day Fantasy

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 00:28:00 -0700

Few artists could make a successful transition from earning a Masters in Flute Performance from the Boston Conservatory to performing with the Visions 2000 Gospel Choir to fronting the power pop punk band ZETA BANE. Monica Attell has done that, and her stature within the independent music scene is on the rise.

Fueled by Attell’s powerful yet versatile vocals, which can range from ballad to hard-driving power pop punk goddess, ZETA BANE opened for acts such as Berlin; Wakefield; David Johanssen; and Attell’s brother, stand-up comic and Comedy Central personality Dave Attell.

The album “Bank Geek” followed, the title a nod to the band friends that she’s known since starting the flute in fourth grade. /"My best friends were always in the school band with me,/" Attell says. /"When you get to high school, you realize that’s your support group. Many of my band friends are still playing, too./"

Monica Attell
Pop, Singer Songwriter
myspace.com/monicaattell
CD Baby

Arie Thompson - Ticketbooth

Fri, 02 Oct 2009 00:53:00 -0700

Arie/'s first music gig was as the frontwoman for the funkrock outfit 4DSEA. /"It was a great experience-- the shows were fun and high-energy and I got my first real studio experience recording a full length album, but at the end of the day, I knew I would have to go solo to really express what was in me, so I left the band after a year and a half./"

In June of 2006, Arie bought a red 1991 Jeep Cherokee for $500 from a Gypsy on a Brooklyn street, drove to a rented cabin in upstate New York and made her first solo recordings on an old mac laptop. /"I didn/'t really know what I was doing,/" she admits. /"I just had these songs inside of me and a ridiculously romantic notion of going to the woods upstate to get them out...I was obsessed with Bob Dylan at the time... I/'m kind of funny that way. I found a guy on craigslist who gave me one piano lesson on the little keyboard that I had bought. I remember there was something manic about the lesson--in 45 minutes, he gave me an introduction to simple functional harmony, chords and songwriting and then I never saw him again. He was some kind of teaching genius, though... I used the notes from that lesson to write my first real song-- it/'s on my record./"

Arie returned to the city after only 3 weeks at the cabin-- /"Yeah, it would be nice to have some story about how I came back after 3 weeks with all of these songs written, but that/'s not what happened. Between an incredibly persistent raccoon, a feral cat with a bad attitude, and having to choose between opening the windows to breathe or being eaten alive by mosquitoes, I just came back with a clear understanding of what I needed to do. I did manage to write and record about 4 songs and used that demo to start booking gigs in the city. In my good fortune I was able to find really seasoned musicians who were willing to work with me-- alot of really incredible jazz cats who were so generous with their time and knowledge./"

Arie Thompson
Acoustic, Soul
myspace.com/ariethompson

A Scribe Amidst The Lions - The Equator Swallowed The Boys

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:21:00 -0700

Established as the current collective in October of 2005, A Scribe Amidst The Lions is starting a buzz with intense live performances at high caliber San Diego and Los Angeles clubs, while independently releasing their own records and pushing multiple US tours.

After releasing their debut full-length in May of 2006 [TELL on Zenwhisper Recordings], A Scribe Amidst The Lions are gearing up to release their second full-length LP “SUNKEN CITIES”, and looking for label support. While TELL was recorded and mixed at the lavish Strate Sound Studios with Alan Sanderson [the incredible engineer behind records like Weezer’s “Green Album”, The Rolling Stone’s “Bridges To Babylon”, and countless other big records], most of the tracks for this second album have come from studio sessions with up and coming smaller, more attentive indie San Diego studios like Black Box Studios and Sushifish Studios.

A Scribe Amidst The Lions
Alternative, Avant Garde
myspace.com/ascribeamidstthelions

Broken Man - Psycho Magnet

Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:02:00 -0700

With time, music always evolves and with the specific setting of a goal, Broken Man has naturally brought together an original hard rock sound that combines the past with present. It begins with 5 members from different backgrounds coming together for their love of music and transformed into a family brotherhood.

With influences ranging from CCR, GN/'R, Pantera, Incubus, The Cult, to name a few, Broken Man has been able to set itself apart by using its music as one to create an intense, punchy, crisp, melodic hard rock sound.

Broken Man
Rock, Classic Rock
myspace.com/brokenmanohio

Lisa LaRue Project2K9 - For Eternity

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 00:45:00 -0700

Joining Lisa LaRue are Jo De Boeck, vocalist for the Belgian band /"Beyond the Labyrinth,/" John Payne, vocals for ASIA featuring John Payne, Steve Adams of ARZ, and Svetlan Raket of the Par Lindh Project and Timecode Alpha.

Lisa LaRue Project2K9
Rock, Classic Rock
myspace.com/lisalarueproject2K9

Elena Giordano - Diggin Deeper

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 01:09:00 -0700

Elena is a unique channel of expression. With firm belief that music has the ability to heal and transform, the power of emotion comes through clearly in her lyrics and delivery. An adrenaline junkie by nature, Elena writes with passion. Elena tackles her craft with maturity and wisdom and is humbly learning every day.

Her first full-length album is a collection of Pop songs that depict a journey of blind faith through time; very real, personal experiences with Universal messages. It is a true blend of spontaneity and craft, and a tactful balance between Pop and the Avant-garde. Elena’s sound is a unique splattering of pop/rock, folk, electronica and dance, yet somehow it all makes cohesive sense. Working with producer Lior Magal has been an essential ingredient. Magal’s music has been published by Sony/BMG, Geffen/Interscope, Warner Bros., RMD Dance International and many others. He has remixed for artists such as Pink, Nelly Furtado, Idina Menzel and Rachel Sage and his work has produced two #1 Billboard Hits with “Do it” (Nelly Furtado) and “Gorgeous” (Idina Menzel).

Elena Giordano
Pop, Rock
myspace.com/elenagiordano

Eric Jason Newell - Shoelaces

Fri, 25 Sep 2009 00:03:00 -0700

Imagine if you will, something so meaningful, so enjoyable that you lose sense of time and self. something so self-captivating that you can actually forget about the storm surrounding you. Think of your favorite arms to ever hold you or the best lips you/'ve ever kissed. Think of the first time you saw Wedding Crashers or the end of Braveheart or the Notebook. These emotional highs and lows are what break the numbness of routine and give everyone inspiration to live another day knowing that good is real and sometimes you just have to look for it to find it.

Eric Jason Newell
Acoustic, Singer/Songwriter
myspace.com/ericjasonnewell

The Mighty Regis - Celtic Storm

Thu, 24 Sep 2009 00:50:00 -0700

This band of misfits don/'t have much of a story if you ask them... but they/'ll say this...

Young Gavin McLoud had the idea to form a band with some of the best musicians in all of Ireland...it didn/'t quite work out that way. So instead he asked the help of his friend Ronnie McDonald, a local music teacher and the nicest of people. The fellas then found a drummer when Gavin/'s schoolyard chum, Gabby Byrne, was released from prison, having been mistaken for an IRA soldier. Next came the search for the perfect frontman. Gavin looked and looked and finally had no other choice then to ask his half brother Francis /"Franky/" McNorman. A failed soccer player, Franky doesn/'t like his brother and doesn/'t like to sing, but not having any other football teams in Ireland to get kicked off of Franky reluctantly joined. While touring through the Dingle Peninsula after about a year together, they picked up a hitchhiking rabbinical student named Paddy McRib. Convinced that a life dedicated to music and making people happy would be more pleasin/' to the Lord, young Paddy traded his yalmulka and tallit set for a used accordion and never looked back. The final pieces were added when Franky heard the voice of an angel during Mass one fateful Sunday, and the lovely Ryan O/'Neill was brought on board. Finally, the band/'s biggest fan, Darby, an orphan boy who couldn/'t even afford a last name, filled a void at bass, and hopes his real parents will one day come to a gig.

After conquering their native country, the greatest show band in Ireland set sail for the States, landing in the pinnacle of Irish punk rock, Molly Malone/'s in Los Angeles. The birthplace of Flogging Molly gave The Mighty Regis a prime St. Patrick/'s Day 2007 spot and a Thursday night residency, all within the band/'s first year of existence.

The Pogues, Dropkick Murphys, Flogging Molly, The Clancy Brothers, The Dubliners, Beastie Boys, Run-DMC, 50-Cent, Jerry Reed...as Franky says, /"At a Mighty Regis show, EVERYONE/'S Irish./"

The Mighty Regis
Celtic, Punk
myspace.com/themightyregis

All American Tragedy - To Take A Life

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 00:21:00 -0700

All American Tragedy was founded in 2000 by guitarist Rob Pope and vocalist Jake Austell. After a few personnel changes the band solidified their line-up in early 2007. Since then, the band has honed its signature sound on the road and recently completed their first full-length album.

The band draws on classic influences such as AC/DC, Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, The Beatles, and Van Halen, with more modern influences coming from bands by the likes of Korn, Disturbed, Rage Against the Machine, and Metallica.

All American Tragedy/'s sound is a fine mixture of southern and classic rock, metal, and hard rock. All five members work together to blend into one distinct sound, with no one instrument having complete control.

All American Tragedy
Rock, Metal
myspace.com/allamericantragedy

Radio-Free Carmela and The Transmitters - Fireworks

Tue, 22 Sep 2009 00:09:00 -0700

A powerful mix of down home bluegrass rock and the soulful sensibilities of folk, Radio-Free Carmela has been performing in Southwestern Florida for the past 10 years to devoted audiences. Though tiny in stature, Carmela/'s voice reaches out with a kung fu grip to grab the listener and engage them in each storyline. She has the ability to instantly connect with her audience through a combination of insightful banter and a passionate original songbook. Her fan base ranges from very small children to octogenarians. Her songs range from her work with the midwives in the birth community to her experience with the fickle music industry.

In a crowded and talented folk and acoustic community, Carmela and her band stand out like champs. Never content with your average girl-with-guitar-in-a-coffee-shop sound, Pedicini, et al bring an energetic and flat-out fun attitude to their glances back at the rich and weird catalogue of Americana and country rock derived from the same source.

Radio-Free Carmela and The Transmitters
Americana, Acoustic
myspace.com/radiofreecarmelaandthetransmitters

Lost July - Carrie

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:06:00 -0700

Lost July
Alternative, Rock
myspace.com/lostjulymusic

Thirty 2 Life - Gagged and Bound

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 00:36:00 -0700

Formed in early 2003, Thirty 2 Life blends melodic vocal lines, heavy guitar riffs & solos with lyrics inspired by the pain and pleasure that life brings. Creating their own unique sound while glimpses of their European gothic/metal and American metal influences shine through. While playing shows all over the south, they have shared billing with Seether, Trapt, ManMade God, Die Trying and many unsigned bands. After releasing several E.P./'s, Thirty 2 Life released their first full length album entitled /"Powered By Pain/" in April 2006.

Thirty 2 Life
Metal, Rock
myspace.com/thirty2lifeband

Elyssa - Fairytale

Thu, 17 Sep 2009 00:23:00 -0700

Elyssa is a bi-lingual (English and French) 16 year old urban pop singer/songwriter. While classically trained and having performed in operas with the Canadian Opera Company, she began writing and recording her own songs while in her early teens. Her songwriting talent and great vocal abilities have caught the attention of a number of producers who encouraged her to record a number of songs in Atlanta with Phil Tan and Marcus Kane.

She is currently promoting her songs on air across Canada with a view to expanding her audience to the United States and abroad. She has a great band and plans to begin performing before larger audiences during the next year.

Elyssa
Singer/Songwriter, Pop
myspace.com/elyssacg

The Greenmatics - I Love Technology

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0700

Hailing from all over the world, the band stumbled across each other in Melbourne, Australia in 2006 and the trio has been rocking venues across Australia and New Zealand since.

In New Zealand /'The Greenmatics/' had four singles reach number 1 in various Top 10 Radio countdowns. They received a nomination for ‘Most Promising New Act’ in the 2005 bNet Music Awards and had their number 1 hit Wait No More remixed by Ryan Beehre (Minuit, Funkn Slocuts) and a tour of New Zealand led to nationwide television coverage.

With this success still fuelling her, Green (Mel Smith) needed to get out of her Christchurch bedroom and into the big bad world. She headed for Australia with a synth under her arm and a love for her music driving her to break the Australian market.

In Melbourne, she found 2 musical soul mates and formed an electro band with the personality, beats and knowledge to break the big city. They made an appearance on Circuit Breakers Vol.1 put out by NSW based Light Sounds and released their Out of Limbo EP. Onstage, they acquired plenty of retro electro gear, and have been cutting some seriously groundbreaking live shows.

The Greenmatics
Pop, Dance
myspace.com/thegreenmatics

ZIA - City of Love

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 00:46:00 -0700

ZIA/'s debut release Underground, fluttered within the TOP 50 the first 10 weeks of it/'s national promotion, and peaked at 29 in the ARIA Club Charts generating repeated spins on specialist dance radio shows Australia wide. Underground reached Top 10 International Category in the Music Oz Awards, and distributed on Ozgigs4 Sampler DVD in Germany, Belgium, France and USA.

Whilst honing her song-writing craft, ZIA (vocals, bass, guitar) has supported some of Australia/'s finest talent including Sneaky Sound System, Vandalism, Rogue Traders, and Marcia Hines. She has also toured extensively performing gigs at Sydney/'s The Basement, The East Coast Blues and Roots Festival, Woodford Folk Festival, Girlfest, and Brisbane/'s Pride. City of Love REMIX EP + ZIA ALBUM is available now through iTunes.

ZIA
Pop, Electronic
myspace.com/ziarecords

Fighting the Villian - What's Left

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 00:21:00 -0700

Fighting the Villain is a five piece alternative/progressive rock band from Hayward, CA. The members of Fighting the Villain have many influences that they bring to the band, which range from; Punk, Pop, Folk, Classical, and Progressive to even Death Metal. In 2005 the band had originally started as a couple of friends who met in high school. It was never taken seriously until three years later in January 2008, when the final line-up was complete. The decision to take their music careers to the next level happened after receiving positive recognition from their fans.

The release of their debut E.P. in May 2008 entitled “Turn to the Ruins,” started receiving some local buzz. With that, they have been given the opportunity to play the Ernie Ball Stage at the Vans Warped Tour in San Francisco and Live 105/'s BFD show featuring 311, The Offspring, Yeah Yeah Yeahs and many other local and national bands. Also playing at other local venues such as; Rooster’s Roadhouse, Rock-it Room, Oakland Metro, and The Red House Studios.

Fighting the Villian
Pop, Rock
myspace.com/fightingthevillain

Soul of the River - Sweet As The Sky

Fri, 11 Sep 2009 00:42:00 -0700

Created around freestyle songwriting sessions around a fire pit, Soul of the River was formed in June 2002. Out of Southern California, Soul of the River creates an unusual blend of songs that immediately grab the listener. Steve Hansen/'s abstract yet funky basslines take a lead voice in the music and effectively compliment the overall song instead of coming off as too strange and abrasive. Rene Felix has the unique blend of funky, shuffle drumming style, with the punch of John Bonham and the thunder of Steward Copeland, that creates a one of a kind sound that makes the most avid hip hop or country listener rock out and get down. Brett Dawson, brings a melodic vocal, and groove based guitar style that ranges from laid back funk to raging intensity. This unique blend of styles playing great original songs guaranteed to make even the harshest critic love, is the perfect formula to create the eargasmic sound of Soul of the River.

Soul of the River
Jam, Rock
souloftheriver.com/

Elena Giordano - Diggin Deeper

Thu, 10 Sep 2009 10:14:14 -0700

Elena Giordano
Pop, Rock
myspace.com/elenagiordano

Ken Macy - Let It Shine

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:01:00 -0700

Macy is an astounding songwriter. His music is like turning on a bright light inside your mind, casting enlightenment into long-ignored shadows in the listeners’ mind. Though-provoking, soulful and passionate, Macy’s music is expressive and potent and leaves listeners breathless wherever he goes. Macy describes his music as “rock and blues, mixed with soul, folk and ballads, mixed with truth.” An apt description from a talented artist.

Ken Macy
Rock, Blues
myspace.com/kenmacy

Air Review - Chasing Corporate

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 00:55:00 -0700

Air Review strives to make creative music that is accessible to the casual listener and engaging to a serious music lover. It has never been about a guitar, or a piano, any one instrument, or any one style, but about solid melodies and fresh and engaging sounds–something to be both listened to and sung along with.

But there is nothing about Air Review that can be considered typical or orthodox. At the onset, the band decided to write an album before ever stepping foot on stage. It took three years of writing, rehearsing and recording in Irving Texas, but finally the band produced a first album to break the mold of the typical debut: no gimmicks or throwbacks to dead musical eras, but 11 tracks, varied and distinct from each other, placed together to make a cohesive whole.

Air Review
Rock
myspace.com/airreview

The Bon Scotts - The Kids Are Coming

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 00:11:00 -0700

The Bon Scotts are a unique blend of eccentric song writing and charismatic instrumentation, with unique hooks, found sounds and toe tapping rhythms, the catchy, playful and above all honest music, captures an energetic appetite rare of a five piece.

With an animated live show and distinctive mix of traditional folk and contemporary narrative, it is certain to draw comparisons with Arcade Fire, The Flaming Lips and Architecture in Helsinki.

The Bon Scotts
Alternative, Folk
myspace.com/thebonscotts

Locksmiths - Rope

Fri, 04 Sep 2009 00:16:00 -0700

Toy Horses - And It Was You

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 00:47:00 -0700

Dave Power - Addiction

Wed, 02 Sep 2009 00:31:00 -0700

Brian Mackey - Painted Red

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 00:25:00 -0700

The Sound Technicians - Looking at You

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 00:07:00 -0700

Dyllan Young - California

Fri, 28 Aug 2009 00:53:00 -0700

Overnight - I Know

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 00:18:00 -0700

Randy Stern - Home

Wed, 26 Aug 2009 01:50:00 -0700

7 Months Later - Leaving A legacy

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 00:27:00 -0700

Dogsway - Burn

Mon, 24 Aug 2009 00:03:00 -0700

FOLIO - Scene Machine

Fri, 21 Aug 2009 00:19:00 -0700

Theoria - Miracle of War

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 00:09:00 -0700

Alan Alda - Red Morning Sky (A Sailing Song)

Wed, 19 Aug 2009 00:49:00 -0700

Brighton Surly - Storm

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:46:00 -0700

Brighton Surly play smart, snappy, hip-swinging technofolk. Debuting their Purgatory Stories LP, the band is plying their unique brand of syncopated, sardonic soundscapes and creating musical narratives that stick in the head and the hearts of the alt rock crowd.

Purgatory Stories, created at Junkshop Studios and produced by Dave MacKinnon of Fembots fame, features a kitchen sink of found sound, haunting harmonies and memorable melodies and an intelligent literate approach to story-telling that puts the band in company with Citizen Cope, Metric and The Flaming Lips.

Julie Penner (DO MAKE SAY THINK, WEAKTHERTHANS) and Alex McMaster (LILY FROST) also appear on this recording.

Brighton Surly
Alternative
Myspace

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Christopher Joel - Don't Leave Me, Sunshine

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 00:10:00 -0700

Christopher Joel brings a refreshing take on the Alt-pop Rock genre to the Nashville music scene. Largely influenced by Jeff Buckley, John Mayer, and Self's Matt Mahaffey, CJ's music features songs about the story of life - love, emotion, and the human experience. He writes not only to entertain, but to inspire the listener with catchy melodies, passionate vocals, and relatable stories.

CJ's EP, Fantasy World, was released in May of 2009 and features a mixture of interesting tales. The title track, "Fantasy World", journals the awkward time between childhood and becoming a world-aware teen. "Not This Time" began as an accidental guitar riff that came to have a song about overcoming temptations written around it. Taking inspiration from noticing the time every night for a week, "11:11" is a love song inventing the mysterious magic of long-lasting love if kissing when all the numbers are ones. You can also find "11:11" featured on blocSonic's compilation netBloc Volume 23 "We Invented the Compilation".

While CJ has been playing and songwriting for 16 years, in 2008 he joined forces with drummer Jeremy Skowronski, bassist Taylor McRae, and guitarist/vocalist Michael Estok to begin performing his songs at various venues in Nashville. Currently, CJ is performing acoustic-only shows all around the southeast with the help of guitarist, vocalist, and fellow artist, Michael Estok.

Christopher Joel
Alternative, Rock
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

The Sound Technicians - Reset

Fri, 14 Aug 2009 00:53:00 -0700

Re-incarnated from the ashes of a previous phoenix, these power-pop stalwarts have played wonderful North American venues, headlining and opening for bands like Cracker, Tripping Daisy, The Headstones, Econoline Crush, The heostatics, Finger Eleven, etc.

The Sound Techies are receiving some encouraging attention of late, and have been tucked away composing/scoring and designing sound for a variety of film, television and new media placement. Possibly one of Canada/'s best kept thundering-guitar and song writing secrets, this energetic quartet are on a tear.

Wooferbitch won a Canadian Gemini Award for his creatively successful tv show, Pete built a state-of-the-art studio and keeps banging out the material; Matt and Og help pull it all together collaboratively like guitar surgeons in an ER unit; All under the masterful post- production ear of their super-ball drummer. The boys recently completed a killer video and shoot, under 90,000 Litres of water... They are chugging away in the studio, gearing up for their upcoming self-released album.

The Sound Technicians
Alternative, Rock
Website
MySpace

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Lost July - Faces

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 00:49:00 -0700

Lost July
Alternative, Rock
Myspace

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The Active Set - Sea Legs

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 00:33:00 -0700

The Active Set DON/'T want to take over the world… yet. Right now they’re focusing on a couple of small islands off the coast of Europe. The strategy comes from Wayne Russell (guitar/keys/vox), a Brit and former member of Dollar Hit. After seeing his fellow countrymen successfully invade the US in the recent influx of indie, brit pop, new wave and electro, Wayne decided to reverse the concept and invade his own country, from the outside.

Following a successful move to the states, Wayne soon met Matthew Stolarz (lead vox/bass), a founding member of L.A. punk rock outfit The Briggs and lover of all things British. The two formed The Active Set, with a goal of making music that builds on the foundations of indie and post-punk, both old and new, ala Bloc Party, the Replacements, Hot Hot Heat, XTC, The Clash, Interpol and The Cure.

When Francis Ramsden (guitar/vox) answered their want ad, it seemed more than coincidence that he should join the group: Francis, a citizen of both the UK and the US, was raised on a healthy dose of British music, Monty Python and Christmas Pudding. He too had plans to return to the UK, having grown up mostly in southern California.

With the addition of Michael Castro (drums/keys), a Louisiana native with a talent for adding beautiful complication to songs, the Active Set fully embarked on their mission.

The Active Set
Alternative, Indie
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

A Dull Science - Cheaters Never Prosper

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 00:25:00 -0700

Pop-Punk at its finest! San Diego/'s very own, A Dull Science, has a powerful and energetic sound with the image and stage presence to match.

Having already recorded a 12 song, full length, album titled /"What Were We Thinking/", A Dull Science has conquered their local scene, with sold out concerts and consistent air time on local and college radio stations.

Backed by a loyal fan base and a relentless work ethic, A Dull Science is destined for world domination.

A Dull Science
Pop Punk
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Jimmy Mancus - Give It Up

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 00:06:00 -0700

In an era where acoustic singer/songwriters are scrambling to produce copycat, soft-rock love songs in the hopes of licensing them to every teen drama and MTV reality show in existence, Springbrook, PA/'s Jimmy Mancus has chosen a different and almost unthinkable approach...to go against the grain, writing music he likes, regardless of popularity or the lack thereof.

Mancus/'s soon-to-be-released new album /"Move Down/", is a testament to his mantra of doing things his own way. The album/'s 14 tracks consist of a diverse blend of styles, including acoustic, indie, funk, hip-hop, rock, and surf. In addition to Jimmy/'s own unique acoustic style and guitar riffs, the album features RasMG//"Field/" Marshall Goodman, DJ for the multi-platinum selling band SUBLIME and the Long Beach Dub All-Stars, on the turntables...Clyde Rosencrance, the album/'s producer, on electric guitar...Lenny Mecca on bass...Eli Hludzik on drums...and Matthew Nakoa on keyboards.

Fans of great past bands like the ultra-popular indie group Dispatch, legendary reggae outfit Sublime and Norweigan funk-rockers The Getaway People, will find a touch of their spirit recalled within Mancus/'s music, while fans of contemporary singer/songwriters like Jack Johnson, G.Love, Dave Matthews and Citizen Cope can expect to discover, in Mancus, an artist who shares the same passion, creativity and uniqueness as those aforementioned.

No inflated egos or unrealistic expectations. No labeling as /"the next big thing/". Just solid music written and performed by talented artists. Listen and decide for yourself.

Jimmy Mancus
Acoustic, Rock
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Monica Attell - Sunny Day Fantasy

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 18:50:36 -0700

The album “Bank Geek” followed, the title a nod to the band friends that she’s known since starting the flute in fourth grade. "My best friends were always in the school band with me," Attell says. "When you get to high school, you realize that’s your support group. Many of my band friends are still playing, too."

Monica Attell
Pop, Singer Songwriter
Myspace
CD Baby

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The Fire Apes - It's Over

Thu, 06 Aug 2009 00:03:00 -0700

Top-notch, Brit-inspired, crunchy pop gems from the ‘Apes! This is Power Pop of the highest order by one of the best in the Power Pop biz right now that features lots of guitars and hooks on top of hooks! The feel of the music is most commonly considered to be reminiscent of such bands as The Beatles, Green Day, Oasis, The Kinks, and The Pretenders.

The Fire Apes
Powerpop, Rock
MySpace

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Face Time Police - Seashells

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 01:56:00 -0700

Torch the Wagon, "Nothing's Here to Stay"

Tue, 04 Aug 2009 00:57:00 -0700

The spark that started the blaze happened on the summer solstice of 2008 when Torch the Wagon rose from the ashes of the previous bands the members had been in. The fire has only gotten hotter as Torch the Wagon continues to burn up the local scene playing some of Denver's hottest venues.

Torch the Wagon was formed by Jeff Simeral, the drummer from the popular local band Stepshort, and Jeff Johnson, a fresh newcomer to the Denver scene. The two Jeffs toiled day and night to build the finest wagon the world had ever seen. After 40 days and nights of devoted labor, the wagon was built. They then immediately set the wagon ablaze and recorded the resulting glorious inferno, creating their debut EP, "Longest Day of the Year".

Torch the Wagon
Rock, Alternative
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Bamboo Needle, "Breaking The Waves"

Mon, 03 Aug 2009 00:47:00 -0700

Formed in Evansville, Indiana as 2006 turned into 2007, Bamboo Needle was born out of a passion for intelligent music with an emotional drive. Brought together by a love of bands such as Radiohead, Smashing Pumpkins, Depeche Mode, Muse & Pink Floyd, founding members Zach Rell (Vocals and Guitars) and Randy Land (Bass, Synths, & Programming) set out to write songs that would connect with their audience on many levels. They quickly set their sights on drummer extraordinaire, Brian Mullins, to solidify the lineup.

From their simple beginnings of making bedroom studio demos, to their upcoming album release, Bamboo Needle has managed to stay true to their original vision of creating music that touches the soul and stirs the mind. This trio possesses an already powerfully engaging live show that is cultivated from the members years of sharing stages with a number of national acts (P.O.D., Switchfoot, Reliant K, and Chevelle). With a quickly growing worldwide online fan base, mysterious front man Zach, visionary Randy, and the ever energetic Brian appear to be well on their way to bigger and better things.

Bamboo Needle
Alternative, Psychedelic
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Chip Greene, "Everything About You"

Fri, 31 Jul 2009 00:30:00 -0700

Better than the boy next door, Chip Greene is charming but true; spirited yet sincere. His fervent drive to deliver a mix of meaningful melodies are an escape from the ordinary. An ever so honest lyrical account of all that he has lived through and everywhere he has yet to go captivates the curious ear.

A talent that grew from a pre-teen passion into a life calling was raised by top-shelf song-writing influences from Joel to Springsteen with the energy and emotion of U2 or Coldplay. Greene digs deeply into a world of of determinate, piercing, and powerful thoughts. Approachable and enchanting as his music is, he holds hearts hostage. His alternative edge and classic, epic sound have earned him an ever-growing fan base and applause-worthy merit. He stands as one of the top unsigned acts on the radar- ready to lead the best of the rest.

As his acclaim continues to soar as a chart-topper of online indie acts and a local favorite on the airwaves, Greene delivers his first full-length album, the long-awaited "Exactly and Approximately."

Chip Greene
Alternative, Singer/Songwriter
Myspace

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Eryn Shewell, "I Don't Know"

Thu, 30 Jul 2009 00:53:00 -0700

Eryn Shewell successfully blends rock, blues and jazz influences to create a unique sound. Born in Washington, DC, Eryn moved to the New Jersey when she was eight. Inspired by her musical family (her parents and aunts all sing; her grandfather is a bluegrass musician), Eryn chose music as her career at an early age. She has always known she would work in the music industry. She has been singing publicly since she was ten, wrote her first song at fourteen and hasn't stopped writing since. She taught herself guitar to help facilitate her songwriting and performing and even trained as a sound engineer so she could better understand some of the science behind the perfect sound. "Music has always been my passion, my therapeutic outlet, I’m not just chasing fame - this is my career. I will always work in the music industry in some capacity," she says in her soft speaking voice that belies the power of her singing.

Eryn founded her own Eryn Shewell Band in 2007, a group that has grown to up to nine pieces that showcases her original compositions with a few of Eryn’s favorite cover songs thrown in for fun. Within the first year the band was nominated for three Asbury Park Music awards including best female vocalist. She has kept the band busy playing in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Nashville as well as recording her debut album.

Eryn Shewell
Rock, Blues
Official Website

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Face Time Police, "Seashells"

Wed, 29 Jul 2009 00:42:00 -0700

Face Time Police, the genre-defying purveyors of "pop macchiato" present a refreshing blend of styles that showcase their own brand of variety with a vision. Made up of Brian and James (the Serra brothers), FTP shatters all expectations and takes you on a journey through an eclectic spiral galaxy filled with illuminated points of light and reason.

Fun and catchy, yet artistic and introspective, The Definition of Deviation (the group's proper debut EP) indulges the listener with big choruses, soaring harmonies, addictive melodies, and lyrics steeped in simile and mired in metaphor.

Embracing an adamant DIY (do it yourself) ethic towards everything they do, the Serra brothers wrote, recorded, and produced their debut EP out of a makeshift studio directly from home.

Face Time Police
Alternative, Pop
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Irie Sol, "Your Love"

Tue, 28 Jul 2009 00:19:00 -0700

Irie Sol's founder, Junior Williams, moved to America from Kingston, Jamaica, with the dream of starting a band that would fuse the genres (reggae, dancehall, ska, and dub) indigenous to his native island with traditional American music forms (hip hop, funk, soul, rock, and jazz). He's "dubbed" (pun intended) the resulting music "Alternative World" to acknowledge its roots and routes in World and Alternative music and to conjure an Alternative World of global unity with music.

Erupting out of the Twin Cities with a musical blend that reflects diverse band members--who hail from Kingston, Jamaica; Nova Scotia, Canada; Providence, RI; Detroit, MI; Minneapolis, MN; and the Chippewa Valley of Wisconsin--Irie Sol delivers authentic Jamaican chat/DJing and soaring, soulful melodies backed by blazing bebop horns, wailing guitar, and tight drum and bass. Irie Sol has played shows with Natty Nation, Dred i Dread, Justin Vernon of Bon Iver, and too many other talented musicians to name.

Irie Sol's music can be enjoyed at live shows throughout the midwest, on many radio programs, and by downloading the new CD, Solstice, on iTunes.

Irie Sol
Reggae, Hip Hop
Myspace
CD Baby

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Thad Reid, "The Reason"

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 00:05:00 -0700

Thad Reid is the streets. Not only is he a grimy Richmond boulevard, he’s a cracked rural Amherst County road, a rustic Clifton Forge trail and a smoothly paved parkway in Fairfax.

Aptly nicknamed, “The Voice of the Commonwealth,” Reid’s rap style exhibits the depth of Common, the clarity of Ludacris, and the passion and knowledge of Krs-One—abstractly packaged behind piercing eyes and a newly-slimmed physique.

With his independently released album, “Memorial Day,”— inspired by a car accident, claiming the lives of two close friends after Reid’s tired eyes were shielded from the road ahead of him—four mixtapes, the “No Beat is Safe" series, and a stage presence witnessed by patrons of various local venues, Reid is well on his way to building his personal brand in the music industry.

Thad Reid
Hip Hop, R&B
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Ume, "The Conductor"

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 00:52:00 -0700

Ume (pronounced ooo-may) has built a reputation as one of indie rock's most electrifying live bands. With their new critically acclaimed and self-released Sunshower EP and recent breakout performances at SXSW and Fun Fun Fun Fest, Ume has launched into the international spotlight DIY style. They are set to spend the summer touring, including stops at Toronto's NXNE Festival and Athens' Athfest, and then to record their highly anticipated full-length.

Behind Ume's explosive music is an unassuming trio. Guitarist/vocalist Lauren says (in her southern drawl) that show after show she meets people who don't think she could possibly have played in punk rock bands for over a decade. She has even had audience members ask if the guitar parts were pre-recorded, because "nobody could play guitar like that, wail, and flail around so much on stage." Sorry folks, this pint-sized shredder is the real deal.

Ume has self-booked over 250 shows and played with Arcade Fire, Marnie Stern, A Place To Bury Strangers, ...Trail of Dead, Dead Confederate, Times New Viking, and The Fall (though they were once dropped from a bill with Cat Power for being 'too hard'). The first and only show they ever had to cancel due to sickness happened to be the one Thurston Moore attended to check out the band. He later put a picture of the band on his Ecstatic Peace blog with the caption "Ume, whom I never got to see."

Ume
Punk, Alternative
Myspace

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Laurén LaRocca, "Keep That B**ch Away"

Thu, 23 Jul 2009 00:42:00 -0700

American singer / songwriter, Laurén LaRocca (pronounced “La-Ren La-Rocka”), says her Soul, Hip-Hop & Reggae influenced Pop is inspired by "countless different artists and genres" and finds herself overwhelmed by her musical obsessions.

"Growing up, I got into all kinds of stuff - Patsy Cline, Duke Ellington, Van Morrison… My dad is a huge Jazz enthusiast and my sister listened to a lot of Hip-Hop and R & B – NWA, Mary J Blige, Erykah Badu – They all became huge influences for me."

Laurén LaRocca
Pop, Soul
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Exit the Ordinary, "Letting Go"

Wed, 22 Jul 2009 00:18:00 -0700

Exit the Ordinary punches in to make simple rock with a beautiful blend of bigness and intimacy. Hailing from Detroit, Exit the Ordinary is the invention of Tim West (lead vocals, guitars), Justin Niemi (bass) and Kyle Bondy (drums). For the past 3 years steady touring, writing, and recording has brought them to the outskirts of the mainstream with a blue collar work ethic.

The release of the groups EP, The Place You Are, served to strengthen their identity as a band. The EP has been picked up for use by MTV as well as it’s title track “The Place You Are” getting picked by New Line Cinema for the movie "The Butterfly Effect 2".

Keenly aware of the opportunity they have to help connect people with purpose, their music is the method of making peace between the head and heart with a haunting sweetness of hope.

Exit the Ordinary
Alternative, Rock
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Low Man's Joe, "Back To You"

Tue, 21 Jul 2009 00:04:00 -0700

Whether you just want to hang out with some friends and get away from the same recycled “alternative rock,” or whether you’re tired of passionless cover bands and you want to party to some solid, original rock and roll, Low Man’s Joe is the band for you!

An unrivaled stage presence, gripping songs and a singer with pipes sets Low Man’s Joe apart from the rest. So rev up your engines, grab a cold beer, join your friends and get on board the Low Man’s Joe Evolution Revolution!

Low Man's Joe
Rock, Alternative
Official Site
CD Baby

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

The Slow Push, "Modern Living"

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 00:41:00 -0700

This is The Slow Push. They take the 'indie' part of Indie Rock seriously and with fervor. They try desperately to back up the age old mantra, "We have something different" with proof through their songs.

They are fans of being inspired by the music around them and of the past, but will not outright imitate, as they see no point if something has already been done. So the goal is to purposefully strive to find and implement elements of a known and popular genre that are hopefully unique and inventive. They are basically music snobs. It takes a lot to impress them, and they in kind strive hard to impress. If their resources are limited, they use what they have at hand and push it to it's limit.

They may not ever be heard, they may not ever be loved, but they are there. This is The Slow Push.

The Slow Push
Indie, Post Punk
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Bums Lie, "Edge of Civilization"

Fri, 17 Jul 2009 01:08:00 -0700

Bums Lie is a band that was started out of a love for music that not only makes you feel good, but also leaves the listener with a sense of substance. In May of 2001 Bums Lie was beginning to take shape and four friends were brought together armed with a Urban reggae sound and a punk attitude. Within a year and a half Bums Lie was opening for reggae legends Culture, and shortly thereafter released their underground classic album First Time Offender. Bums Lie has since opened up for Grammy award winning artist Damien Marley at The Music Farm in Charleston, SC, and Yellowman at Ziggys in Winston Salem, NC. May 26th 2007 marked the day that Bums Lie released their newest CD, "Why Lie It's For Beer", with Rob Tavaglione at Catalyst Recording, and will be touring throughout the southeast playing shows to promote the new CD.

Bums Lie has had a busy year in 2008 . They recorded a live album at the Visulite Theater in May entitled "Stumbling, and Mumbling". The release date for "Stumbling, and Mumbling" was May 23, 2009. Bums Lie ran into King Django, who has played with Rancid, The Slackers, and The Stubborn Allstars, and gave him a CD. Django like it and put them on his label (Stubborn Record).

Bums Lie
Alternative, Reggae
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Elliot Street Lunatic, "Dearly"

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 00:32:00 -0700

Cj and Jason have been playing under Elliot Street Lunatic since 2006. We have had a little line up changes and now are set as a four piece band. They use a lot of delay on the guitars to give a bigger feel. They consistently play all over Michigan since the beginning of 2008.

Their influences include The Beatles, Radiohead, Portugal The Man, Muse, and The Mars Volta. Their first LP, with 11 songs that will satisfy all of your emotions, was released in April 2009. It is an album. In March, the band was announced as a top three finalist in the Lansing City Pulse newspaper in the "best original group" category on the top 25 things about Lansing Michigan.

Elliot Street Lunatic
Alternative, Rock
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Eggshell Egoz, "Takin My Time"

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 01:19:00 -0700

2009 brings energy, fun, placements, and a brand new album for Eggshell Egoz. Eggshell's third album, Naked, is set to release in Fall 09', their single "Take To The Sky" leads the way. With US shows lined up throughout the Summer, Eggshell is venturing out of the US and into Europe, so look out for your top down joyride, it'll take the stress of the day away!

Eggshell's a blend of rock, funk and pop combined with colorful, literature-style songwriting. Billed with acts such as Killola, Liz Phair, Outlett, Raining Jane, and Gavin Rossdale (Institute) their positive, high energy live shows have made them a staple at theaters, festivals, bars and universities.

Eggshell Egoz
Rock, Funk
Official Site

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Hudson Rail Company, "City By The Ocean"

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:55:00 -0700

HRC has built a successful fan base in the Tri State area by writing and performing classic rock reminiscent of the pioneering blues rockers Zeppelin, The Who, the Stones, and Allmans combined with the modernity of G'nR, the Chili Peppers, Pearl Jam, and the Black Crowes.

Singer/Songwriter Leigh Wilson’s inspiration for crafting lyrics of real-life experiences came inherently on the daily commute throughout the NYC subways and NJ PATH train system. Finding a complimentary vision in Arun Viswanathan, the two found a natural collaboration and a collective desire to bring classic rock back to our modern alternative/indie scene. Adding the combination of Jim Russo on drums and Nick Vignapiano on bass set the solid foundation that draws on HRC's biggest influences.

Hudson Rail Company
Rock, Alternative
Myspace

The Indie Venue Bible: Over 1500 Booking Agents in the US and Canada!

Maybe The Welders, "Hot Shot

Mon, 13 Jul 2009 00:46:00 -0700

Maybe the Welders is a New York City rock'n'roll band. Driven by three guitars, a rock-solid rhythm section, and the two distinct voices of co-singer/songwriters Greg Campbell and Declan Collins, they play powerful, well-crafted songs and give energetic shows all around town. In fact, they can be seen as part of the new face of New York City's proud rock'n'roll history. According to Risa Mickinberg, the front-woman of Jesus H. Christ and the Four Hornsmen of the Apocalypse, their sound is "Spasm/pony-dancing infectiousness that smells of the old CBGB's but, rather than leaving you wishing for the old days, reminds you that NYC is still glowing here somewhere in the ashes."

Currently, the guys in MtW are busy shopping around their 3-Song Demo to as many listeners as they can find, as well as planning to expand it into a seven-song EP by the end of spring. In addition, they are shooting their own music videos -- check out Streets of Rio on Youtube -- and still finding to play live in Manhattan and Brooklyn as often as possible. Declan, putting it simply, states, "Playing live right now is key." Adds Greg, "Absolutely! I went to theatre school. Playing out is what I live for."

Maybe The Welders
Rock, Alternative
Website

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Case of the Mondays, "Jesus Stole My Girlfriend"

Fri, 10 Jul 2009 00:28:00 -0700

Case of the Mondays separate themselves from the norm by coating catchy punk, ska, rock and reggae riffs with clever lyrics and contagious melodies. Case of the Mondays has had several noteworthy accomplishments in their 6 year career.

Appearing live as the opening act for Finger Eleven on the USS New Jersey for “Band on a Battleship, on Jaxon’s Local Shots Volume 2 and on the airwaves countless times are only three ways that legendary Philadelphia rock station 93.3 WMMR has embraced the band, helping establish them at the forefront of the Philadelphia original music scene. Opening the Philadelphia leg of the Ska is Dead Tour, becoming Zippo Hot Tour semi-finalists, and enjoying radio play on other Philadelphia stations like 104.5 WRFF and 94.1 WYSP further validate just how engaging their songs really are.

Case of the Mondays has also opened up for many other national acts including legendary ska band The Toasters, Streetlight Manifesto, The Pietasters, Mustard Plug, and Gym Class Heroes. They have performed at such renowned Philadelphia venues as the Trocadero, Grape Street Philadelphia, the North Star Bar, the Theater of the Living Arts and also the Knitting Factory in New York, not to mention the fact that they were the first rock band ever to rock on the Battleship New Jersey.

Case of the Mondays
Rock, Pop
Website

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Black Suit Youth, "Hot Summers In Hi-Fi"

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:54:00 -0700

Formed in 2004. Black Suit Youth is a high energy alternative rock band with a hard post punk edge. The band has self released two records (Our Future is History-2007, East of Eden-2008) and toured totally on their own dime nationally with no label support and very limited airplay.

The band has a completely original sound best described as a hybrid of Foo Fighters, Gaslight Anthem, and Texas Is The Reason... and a strong do it yourself -stop at nothing ethic which sets them far apart from many other bands. Black Suit Youth has a great reputation for professionalism and a punishing live show.

Black Suit Youth
Rock, Punk

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Viv Peyrat, "Aces High"

Wed, 08 Jul 2009 00:30:00 -0700

Emerging on the scene with his debut EP, Philadelphia based solo artist Viv Peyrat is determined to reach music fans across the globe with his fusion of harmonious and breezy vocals backed by acoustics, electrics, and chops that bring to life his style of pop, rock, funk, blues, & R&B with a creative spin. Viv also brings vast experience as a stage & studio guitarist with a repertoire and technique well beyond his years, he has mastered the art form; from spacious soaring solos to intricate, melodic lines.

Comfortable on the stage at an early age, Viv began playing in various bands and advanced to Guitar Center’s Guitarmageddon regional finals when he was only 16. Throughout the years Viv has played with various bands at popular events including South by Southwest, the Emergenza festival, and the Fourth of July Festival at FDR Skatepark to name a few. Viv has had the pleasure of recording with acts like modern rockers Johnny One Match (formerly of Straitlaced), cabaret trip-pop artist Mia Sable (LA Music Awards Female Singer & Songwriter of the Year), and hardcore skatepunks Leiana (featuring skatepunk icon Chuck Treece).

Viv Peyrat
Acoustic, Pop
Myspace

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PaperDoll, "If Nothing Happened"

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 07:24:00 -0700

PaperDoll is high-energy pop at its BEST, blending shrewd instrumentation, solid hooks, and the undeniable charisma of frontwoman Teresa Lee.

Their debut album - BALLAD NERD POP - was produced by Nic Hard (The Bravery, Aberdeen City) and is out on itunes, amazon, rhapsody, and all other online retailers.

100% independent (no formal promotion or management), they've managed to attract a consistent NYC crowd (100+ paid covers at each gig), sell 2,000 albums, and be featured in allkpop, Showtime Network's "Sleeper Cell" DVD interstitial, ImaginAsian TV, various college campus magazines (UCLA, Columbia, Penn State), and other indie music sites.

PaperDoll’s energetic live performances have sold out shows at legendary New York City hotspots the Knitting Factory, Crash Mansion, Arlene's Grocery, and Mercury Lounge.

PaperDoll
Pop, Alternative
Official Site

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PaperDoll - If Nothing Happened

Tue, 07 Jul 2009 04:43:00 -0700

PaperDoll is high-energy pop at its BEST, blending shrewd instrumentation, solid hooks, and the undeniable charisma of frontwoman Teresa Lee.

Their debut album - BALLAD NERD POP - was produced by Nic Hard (The Bravery, Aberdeen City) and is out on itunes, amazon, rhapsody, and all other online retailers.

100% independent (no formal promotion or management), they/'ve managed to attract a consistent NYC crowd (100+ paid covers at each gig), sell 2,000 albums, and be featured in allkpop, Showtime Network/'s /"Sleeper Cell/" DVD interstitial, ImaginAsian TV, various college campus magazines (UCLA, Columbia, Penn State), and other indie music sites.

PaperDoll’s energetic live performances have sold out shows at legendary New York City hotspots the Knitting Factory, Crash Mansion, Arlene/'s Grocery, and Mercury Lounge.

PaperDoll
Pop, Alternative
paperdollband.com

Side FX, "Simple Touch"

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 00:44:00 -0700

Kim Cameron and the Side FX band offer an eclectic blend of pop, rock and jazz into a smooth, groovy listening experience. Think Carly Simon with an attitude.

The group launched their first album, Contradictions, in the September 2008. Combining a fresh, genre-shifting sound with inspired and deeply personal lyrics, every song in the album is wrapped around a personal experience of lead singer/songwriter, Kim Cameron.

The songs reveal a surprising depth: from lyrics about disillusioned troops (My Hero), to the temptations of a budding romance (Come a Little Closer), to an intimate portrait of a trapped woman who would "rather hide under MySpace eyes" (Her Escape).

Singer/songwriter Kim Cameron gives the album a "get-up-and-dance" spirit with a seductive twist. In a voice reminiscent of Chrissie Hynde, Kim's sultry alto notes blends seamlessly among electric guitar riffs and saxophone solos.

Kim Cameron and the Side FX band officially came together in 2007 when they began expanding their basement jamming sessions to local venues and restaurants. In April 2007, Kim Cameron was inspired to write the songs in Contradictions after her brother-in-law was diagnosed with cancer. Writing songs became a positive outlet for expressing how much he had made an impact on her life.

Kim Cameron's influences include Carly Simon, Annie Lennox, Sting, and Dave Matthews.

The eclectic band also features guitarist and songwriter Chris (Nik) Nikpora, Guitar, bassist Matt Berry, drummers Nick Nikpoufard, John Mcllwaine, keyboards Terry Marshall.

Side FX
Pop, Rock
Official Site
You Tube
MySpace

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Holly Leer, "Wanting You"

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 00:11:00 -0700

Drawing comparisons to Tracy Bonham, Alanis Morissette and Tori Amos, songwriter Holly Leer has been honing her skills in the Portland, Oregon music scene since 1999. A multi-instrumentalist and classically trained vocalist, she skillfully combines unconventional elements, like Native American flute or themes from Mozart, with mainstream instrumentation, resulting in a pop/rock mix that appeals to a diverse audience.

And her voice refuses to be ignored. Able to be soothing and soft one moment, and loud and raucous the next, her vocal control and ability allow her to deliver dynamic and emotional performances that will keep listeners coming back again and again.

Her songs run the gamut from beautifully introspective to angst-ridden, and touch on just about everything in between - love, anger, regret, and hope. So it comes as no surprise that her impressive debut album, Fire In My Bones, is a thrill-ride of emotion that will have you singing the infectious tunes for days after you've heard them. Since it’s release, several songs from the album have been getting airplay on several radio stations, over the airwaves, and online.

Holly Leer
Rock, Singer/Songwriter
Myspace

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Blackout 101, "Too Cool"

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 00:59:00 -0700

Blackout 101, formed by 3 front men whose previous bands shared stages several times before they decided to combine forces, have unquestionably become something much greater than the sum of their parts. All 3 members play guitar, bass and drums and share amazing instincts that help them respond to the input of their fans and each other while demonstrating an undeniable chemistry on stage that is electrifying for fans of all ages.

Veterans of many Southern California hotspots including the House of Blues, the Troubadour, the Majestic Ventura Theater, the Knitting Factory, the Key Club and the Whisky A Go-Go, they have also impressed audiences of all ages on tours to San Francisco, Seattle, Portland, Chicago, New York City, Vancouver Canada and even 16 shows in England. They have also done live performances and interviews on many radio stations in the U.S. and the U. K.

Their latest EP " A Work in Progress" was produced by Shaun Lopez (Far, Deftones). It demonstrates their uncanny ability to write technical and intelligent songs that speak to both the young and the young at heart. Blackout 101 is not a boy band of trained dancers who sing words put in their mouths by others. They are the real deal. Prolific writers, the boys are constantly expanding their repertoire and consistently honing their craft as the legitimate voice of this and the next generation.

Blackout 101
Rock, Alternative
Website

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Elsewhere, "Before The Stars Align"

Tue, 30 Jun 2009 00:21:00 -0700

Elsewhere, a progressive-punk trio from Boston, is the product of a rare musical mutation that combines the energy and raw angst of punk with the ambition and creativity of progressive rock. Presently, the band is the process of recording the next great rock project (while of course at the same time plotting to take over the World) tentatively titled”1981”. At this very moment, two songs from the forthcoming EP, “1981” and “Before The Stars Align”, are ready for imminent release. Don’t get too excited!!!

The trio consists of guitarist/vocalist Michael Aroian, drummer Craig Morrison and bassist Marc Ubaldino-a trio of atypical punks with corporate day jobs who bring the duality of their existence to the stage with their high-energy live performances. This contradiction between image and sound pulls the listener into a state of emotional release through thought-provoking music. The truly progressive part of Elsewhere’s music is that it also has a pop sensibility that people can appreciate and relate to on an entirely different level.

Elsewhere
Rock
Website

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Hopeful Monster, "Uncivilized"

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 00:55:00 -0700

Hopeful Monster began in 2001, as a recording project at songwriter Jason Ball’s Nervous System Studio in Seabright, Nova Scotia, drawing session players from the vibrant, nearby Halifax indie pop scene. Jason and some of the key participants, including members of Matt Mays & El Torpedo, The Heavy Blinkers, The Guthries and The Hylozoists, began performing in Halifax and traveled to showcase in Montreal and Toronto. "Hopeful Monster" was released in 2002 on Brobdingnagian Records to international acclaim.

The band made two videos in 2003, for River Reflexive and Stars Are Photomagnets. While on a solo tour of Norway and the UK with Sufjan Stevens, Jason was honored to perform at the wedding party for Of Montreal's Kevin and Nina Barnes. In 2004, he moved to Toronto, playing keyboards in the Hylozoists and with chanteuse Lily Frost, and harmonizing in vocal pop triumvirate The Wilderness with fellow songwriters Andrew Rodriguez and Jason Kent. The Wilderness performed only a few times, opening for Rufus Wainwright and Arctic Monkeys, before disbanding. Jason returned to Europe as a member of The Heavy Blinkers, opening shows with solo sets of Hopeful Monster songs in Germany and France.

Hopeful Monster
Pop, Rock
Website

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Death By Sexy, "BTO"

Fri, 26 Jun 2009 01:32:00 -0700

Dex Fontaine and Jason Griffenhagen were lonely rockers wandering the streets of Washington, DC in early 2005. They had just started a new rock’n’roll band with a good, raw, high energy sound. But what to name it? At a loss, they ran into Jesse Hughes from the Eagles of Death Metal at a pinball machine in the DC rock institution the Black Cat. Between quarters, Jesse came to the rescue and suggested the name “Death By Sexy”. They took it and ran with it.

Since then, DXS has been slaying audiences with their brand of relentless, righteous rock music. After adding the bass player with the angelic harmonies: Christian Baldo and releasing their 1st full-length album, Curse The Curse, getting airplay on DC101 in DC, 102.1 The X in Richmond, and various college stations, internet radio across the nation, they seem poised for bigger things. Or at least garnering enough good will to get a free 12 pack of Pabst at their shows. God bless 'em, and god bless rock'n'roll.

Death By Sexy
Rock, Alternative
Website

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Thinking Plyers, "Linus Three: Got To Love You Like I Do"

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 00:19:00 -0700

Thinking Plyers' music is rooted in familiar melodies and textures, interlaced with surprising combinations of rhythms and sounds from a variety of genres. Their love-soaked lyrics and keen instrumental intuition create a genuine spiritual element, transporting the listener to a place where hearts are warmed, smiles are formed and positivity prevails. Hints of psychedelia and East Indian ragas weave in and out of their live shows, but the danceable grooves maintained throughout keep audiences on their feet and screaming for more.

Thinking Plyers have spent the past decade and a half putting out their own records, booking their own tours, managing their own press and building a solid fan base from Austin to Asheville. Now calling Nashville home, they are on the verge of releasing their most ambitious album yet. Gnostic Love Songs was recorded at their own Aeolia House Studios in 2006. It is the result of ten years of writing around a common musical and lyrical theme, chronicling the trials and tribulations of a fictional character curiously named Linus.

Look for Thinking Plyers as they plan to bring Gnostic Love Songs and their thrilling live show to their loyal fans throughout the southeast US and beyond!

Thinking Plyers
Jam Band, Soul
Website
Twitter
Facebook
CDBaby

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Ever So Klever, "Quitters"

Wed, 24 Jun 2009 01:23:00 -0700

Ever So Klever is a six member 'power swing' band from South Florida. If one word is to be used to describe Ever So Klever, it is charisma. Forming in January of this year, making the band only 4 months old, Ever So Klever has a polished full length album already released and recently played the opening spot for UB40 at the ever popular SunFest 2009 which sold over 400,000 tickets. They have also received significant press coverage on radio, television, newspaper, and of course on the blogosphere.

Ever So Klever soars with their sounds of swing and rockabilly to provide energy reminiscent of a late 90's Warped Tour vibe that is twisted with the classic influence of South Florida Latin rhythms. The horn section blasts livelihood alongside juiced up and sexy female lead vocals that rock through a ribbon mic to provide motivating choruses combined with Brian Setzer like guitar riffs. The walking bass lines and classic swing drums will provide the back bone to bust out that zoot suit, consider some slicked back greaser hair, and take a ride with your baby in that classic 1930's hot rod. The right touches of other musical influences and genres lend spicy diversity to full songs like "Sinning Again" which reflect an almost Orange County-No Doubt like ska vibe and intros of songs like "Here Comes Mama" displaying their sultry Latin music talents.

With a busy May schedule all over South Florida and June up the Atlantic coast line up to New York, there is simply no excuse to not see Ever So Klever. Several dates even have them playing two shows in one day. This kind of band doesn't come along often and is a result of nothing less than hard work and talent. If you enjoy bands like No Doubt, The Cherry Poppin Daddies, Save Ferris, and The Horror Pops, you will certainly find Ever So Klever pleasing your palate just as much. Their record, entitled "Bang, Twang, Boom," is nothing but high quality. Its hard copy and their digital download, along with other merchandise, is available on their website at www.EverSoKlever.com.

Ever So Klever
Rock
Website

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Seven Car Pileup, "Drive-In"

Tue, 23 Jun 2009 00:38:00 -0700

Seven Car Pileup has been bringing their high energy grooving infectious rock to their fans throughout the Southwestern United States since January of 2007. Despite the sometimes blistering Arizona heat, Seven Car Pileup has been able to convince their fans to wake from their heat hibernation enough to have become a notable part of the Desert Rock landscape.

Seven Car Pileup recently complete an EP with legendary local music producer Bob Hoag. The EP, Zombies with Dino, contains 4 songs in their signature punchy up-beat hook laden format. Currently Seven Car Pileup is busy spreading the word about their EP all while entertaining mall rats and bar flies alike.

Seven Car Pileup is composed of Mark Mason (vocals and guitar), Jess Pruitt (Bass), and Mike Vigil (drums and vocals). Mason and Vigil had played together previously in the indie-rock band Lucky. When Lucky disbanded they formed a new band with good friend and super talented bassist Jess Pruitt (Until The Return). Their chemistry was instant, and they've been composing and performing as much as they can ever since.

Seven Car Pileup
Alternative, Funk
Website

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Kylie Edmond, "Oh No No"

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 00:27:00 -0700

An Aussie girl, now living and writing in fabulous NYC, Kylie looks to the sun, the beach and all things glorious for inspiration. Originally from sunny Perth, Western Australia, she came to NYC in search of inspiration and adventure... and it has since become her home and muse.

Writing on and off over the years, it wasn't until a trip to London that she decided to make things happen. Sitting in a hotel room, watching the London rain, it was time to follow her heart and pursue her passions.

Kylie's in the studio recording new songs now and recently performed for the SESAC Writers on the Storm showcase for up and coming talent, and was featured twice as a Spotlight Member with the Songwriter's Guild of America. She's played in NYC venues such as Rockwood Music Hall, Baggot Inn, The Sidewalk Cafe, Banjo Jim's, The Bitter End, Caffe Vivaldi, Parkside Lounge and Waltz-Astoria.

Kylie Edmond
Singer-Songwriter, Rock
Myspace

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