[ New music ] Lowlight releases new single "Give It a Minute" // Sea Hear Now Festival 2019

Artist: Lowlight
Song: "Give It a Minute"
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"A tough bouncer is hired to tame a dirty bar." That's how IMDb summarizes Roadhouse, the 1989 classic film starring Patrick Swayze. Now let's take that visual a step further and use it to define a music genre, "Roadhouse Chic". That's where we come to find the five piece rock outfit, Lowlight. Equal parts whiskey, sweet vermouth, and rock n' roll. 

The members of Lowlight are Renee Maskin, Rey Rivera, Colin Ryan, Dana Sellers, and Derril Sellers. The band is based out of Asbury Park, NJ and signed to Telegraph Hill Records. Lowlight is no stranger to the road. Last year the band went on tour supporting The Pretenders on their east coast dates. Continuously circling the tri-state area, it's clear Lowlight has found a devoted fan base between NYC, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Asbury Park, NJ. The band recently announced that they will be performing at Sea Hear Now Festival this September, alongside big names like Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, The Lumineers, Dave Matthews Band, and more. (Tickets are on sale here ). 

"Give It a Minute" is the latest single off Lowlight's Endless Bummer LP.  The single features horns, and gang vocals from members of the band Community Center, singing "words unspoken, eyes wide open, words unspoken, eyes wide open," as the song fades into the dreamy ethereal rock soundscape. Lowlight's signature blend of rolling synth, galloping drums, swooping bass lines, ferocious tone-centric guitar leads and Renee's crisp direct address style of singing has stolen the hearts of the Asbury Park music scene.

Make sure to stream Lowlight's "Give It a Minute" on Spotify, and pick up a copy of the Endless Bummer LP at a show this summer!

Lowlight:  Official Website  //  Facebook  //  Bandcamp  //  Instagram  //  Spotify

📸: @_daniedel @derrils

[ New Music ] Iris releases debut single "Crazy" (from Netfix's Santa Clarita Diet - Season 3)

Photo: Steven Taylor

Artist: Iris

Song: "Crazy"

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Iris is a pop rock singer songwriter based out of New Jersey. Her debut single "Crazy", was co-written with Josh Hendrick, and produced by Taylor Johnson, along with Grammy award winning producer Malay (John Legend, Frank Ocean). "Crazy" was recently featured on the Santa Clarita Diet Season 3 premiere on Netflix, which has garnered her music much acclaim and cemented her artist status in the music industry. Iris is a strong advocate for equality, positivity, and Parkinson's disease awareness. Drawing inspiration from artists like Stevie Nicks, Iris strives to relate to listeners by sharing her most vulnerable side, delving into her own experiences with heartbreak and rejection. Iris sings, "trying to be strong but it's hard not to get my heart involved, I play it off but my eyes tell it all, you're all I want".  

"Crazy" begins with a dreamy ethereal pop feel, with Iris's captivating vocals floating perfectly in the mix teeming with raw emotion. Carefully layered synth swells and reversed guitar effects bring out each section and add unique dynamics to the arrangement. As the song progresses we hear elements of percussion, and fluttering instruments that come in and out of the soundscape, creating a sense of wonder that simultaneously creates a sonic layer for Iris's vocals to stand out, and tell this bittersweet love story singing, "I'm not crazy, I'm just crazy about you". 

"Crazy" is an impressive stand out debut from this New Jersey singer songwriter. Make sure to follow Iris on social media, and keep your eyes peeled for future Spotify releases. 

Follow Iris on Instagram   //   Follow Iris on Twitter   //  Listen to "Crazy" on Spotify

[ New Music ] Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band // "When the World Stops Turning"

Artist: Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band
Song: "When the World Stops Turning"

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Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band is a modern day blues rock group from Asbury Park, NJ. The band was formed in 2011, and they are currently signed to Telegraph Hill Records. Their musical talent, songwriting, and dynamite onstage energy has caught the eyes and ears of new fans across the country, allowing the band to tour up and down the east coast, and continue to pump out new music. 

Coming from the home of iconic rock n' roll musicians like Bruce Springsteen, Bon Jovi, and The Gaslight Anthem; Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band is nodding to the big names, but still carving out a path all of their own. The band has been making waves with their ferocious live shows, and their latest single, "When the World Stops Turning". It's one of those songs you want to turn up in your car and sing along with at the top of your lungs. "I'll be ready when the world stops turning, I'll be ready when your knees start shaking, I'll be ready when it all starts tumbling down," sings frontman Connor Bracken.

The song starts with a crunchy blues guitar riff and a steady rock beat. As the track progresses the guitar tones swell and layer to compliment each section, leading to impressive solos on guitar, along with really rocking drum crashes and fills. The deep bass grooves underneath everything, adding depth and a tangible 70's rock feel. With each return of the chorus, we hear Bracken's voice gnarling with intensity, and spirit, bringing the song to a climactic ending. Make sure to take a listen for yourself on the band's Spotify here, and keep an eye on their social media for when Connor Bracken and the Mother Leeds Band plays a show near you! 

Official Website // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter // Spotify

[ New Music ] Leah Capelle latest single "Docs" promotes self-love while overcoming insecurities

Artist: Leah Capelle

Song: "Docs"

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          Leah Capelle's music is a modern blend of pop and melodic rock all revolving around her captivating lyrics. Originally from Chicago, this award-winning singer-songwriter has been studying music and performance all of her life. Leah attended The North Shore Music Institute, Berklee College of Music in Boston, and is currently majoring in Music Industry at USC Thornton School of Music on the west coast. She made the big move to Los Angeles for school, and the opportunity to work on music with Grammy winning producer Jeff Bova (Celine Dion, Blondie, Meatloaf). When she's not recording, or performing in the LA area, she tours with her live band along the coast, and at showcases like SXSW in 2015 and 2016. Today we are taking a listen to her latest single "Docs" from her upcoming EP Joshua.

          Right away we are drawn in by Leah's sultry polished rock vocals. Heavy guitars chug along with driving drums and bass rounding out their huge sound. Vocal harmonies layer in throughout the verse and into the chorus. Production and overall recording quality is on point, with great dynamics between sections, and a diverse blend of melodic instruments. Vulnerable, and honest, Leah sings about her struggle with finding her identity through material things like leather jackets, new boots, hair cuts, and expensive cocktails.  As the song progresses she goes into detail about the emotions attached to these price tags, and how she doesn't feel good about herself unless she's looking her absolute best. "Going through my closet, trying on my clothes, thinking if I can find something stylish I’ll feel better, I think I’ll get a haircut, find a fresh new look, maybe if I just chop all my hair off I’ll feel better".

          A relatable song that will surely pull on the heartstrings of anyone whose struggled with insecurities or tried to make their way into a new crowd of peers. At the end of the day, Mark Twain said, "it's not the size of the dog in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the dog".. and we think Leah Capelle has more fight than anyone in the ring. With a serene vocal presence, a contemporary songwriting skill-set, and a dynamic live band and producers working behind the scenes, Leah Capelle is a star on the rise.

Check out more from Leah Capelle on Spotify:

[ New Single ] Kenny Fame releases "Another Man's Woman (I Don't Wanna Lose This)"

Artist: Kenny Fame
Single: "Another Man's Woman (I Don't Wanna Lose This)"
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          Kenny Fame is an award winning R&B singer-songwriter, poet, dancer, and model based out of New York City. He got his start working at the Apollo theater in Harlem NY. Some of his musical influences include 70's soul legends Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Al Green, along with pop / soul artists like Erykah Badyu, Janet Jackson, Lauren Hill, and Sam Cooke. With the last name "Fame" it's easy to see how Kenny has been working towards just that, making a name for himself in the NYC music circuit. His latest single, "Another Man's Woman (I Don't Wanna Lose This)", was produced by Jack Mullin, and co-produced by Kenny, and features a full band production, and radio ready listening quality.

          "There are things I need to see, but I just don't know where to start" Kenny sings longingly, unsure of how to express his love for another man's woman. Sometimes cupid's arrow strikes more than one person, and it sure can be tricky finding a middle ground. "I know there's someone else, and I know you're gonna break my heart", like with most things, sticking your hand in the fire is a sure fire way to get burned. To be aware of the eventual let down, but push forward is incredible honest and vulnerable lyricism, supported by clear emotive vocals. Guitar, bass, and drums are laid back, breathing and flowing with the lyrics, building and stripping down dynamically with the emotion of the song. "I'm so lost in confusion about another man's woman, that I'll end up losing at your other man's choosing, i'm the one you're just using, but I don't wanna lose this". A bittersweet ending to a well produced song, chocked full of hooks, and expressive lyrics.

Make sure to follow Kenny Fame on his social media pages, and check out "Another Man's Woman (I Don't Wanna Lose This)" on Soundcloud, and YouTube!

[ New Single ] Dynamos releases "Shake, Rattle and Roll"

Artist: Dynamos
Single: "Shake, Rattle and Roll"
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          Dynamos is an American rock n' roll band based out of Los Angeles, CA.  Their lead singer "Nadia E." lists a wide range of musical influences, including artists like Nirvana, Otis Redding, and Amy Winehouse. The other members of Dynamos are Nick Schaadt  (Music Director, Bass), Jacob Mayeda (Lead Guitar), Ian Nakazawa (Drums), Carlos Barrera (Guitars), and also Elliott Lawrence  (Creative Director - Producer, Guitars). Each playing an intricate part to the band's overall talent, and rapid rate of success in the LA music scene. Dynamos is a powerhouse, and melting pot of every style of American rock n' roll to date. Sultry, and confident, singer Nadia performs with enthusiasm and tons of energy on stage, while Nick, Jacob, Ian, and Carlos bring out the best in each performance with their powerhouse musicianship and animated playing styles. Today we're taking a listen to the latest single from Dynamos,  "Shake, Rattle and Roll" .


          Right away the groove sets in, with a hypnotizing bass line, and punchy electric guitar chords. Vocals begin with Nadia singing, "I start to shake when I think of you standing next to me, and I'm rattled I'm shaken up as I can be, I start to roll thoughts of you around in my head, you really rocked me out so hard I can't get out of bed, I start to shake, rattle and roll". She paints a picture of a reckless, exciting love, that is constantly on the forefront of her mind, but also leaves her only wanting more and more after each encounter. As the song continues, Nadia describes the connection really having a spark... "being next to you is like a major power surge". Drums really drive this song home, shifting in time between verse, chorus,and instrumental breakdowns;  accentuating each part perfectly. The band kicks into high gear with lead guitars and bass going back and forth wailing on their instruments and really bringing this rockin' song to a close. Overall, this song shows a lot of dynamics, musicianship, and sheer high quality rock n' roll energy. We look forward to hearing what's next from LA rockers Dynamos, in the meantime make sure to check out their live video for "Shake, Rattle and Roll":

[ New Single ] Ashley J releases "Unbreakable"

Artist: Ashley J
Single: "Unbreakable"
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          Ashley J is a Contemporary Pop artist based out of Orlando, FL. Over the last few years this singer-songwriter has began gaining traction in the EDM / dance club scene, notably with her Top 10 hit, "Cali", on the Billboard Dance Club Charts. 
          She is a talented singer, dancer, writer, and actress, along with being active in her church choir and theater productions growing up. Ashley J's influences range from great pop divas like Christina Aguilera, Whitney Houston, and Celine Dion. She also draws from famous country artists like Johnny Cash, and her all time musical inspiration, Dolly Parton.

          Today we are taking a listen to her latest single "Unbreakable". 

          "I wrote and recorded "Unbreakable" in London. It was one of my favorite writing sessions because their energy was so natural. The song literally wrote itself and came alive in the studio. I was just ending a relationship and this song was my final phase of getting through it. I found an undeniable power within, and channeled it with this song that closed the chapter and opened a new one at the same time. This will forever be one of my favorites". 

 

        In this catchy uplifting song, Ashley J takes us on a ride through her past trials and tribulations with love. "I've loved and I've lost,  I've been through it all before...", but as the song progresses she gains confidence and faith in love again. In a later verse she shares her new perspective,   "Bright lights, new views, I'm seeing life in a different way". Ashley J fully embraces her love for the pop music genre, while also including elements of electronic and dance music styles. Deep kick drum, heavenly, effected synths bring us into a dancy verse, before dropping into a huge melody filled Chorus. Ashley's vocal prowess, and keen ear for production make this song impossible not to move and sing along to. "Unbreakable" is an empowering song about finding independence after a break up, and not losing hope in finding everlasting love. In the chorus singing, "Won't break my heart anymore, won't break this heart of mine, I'm gonna make it so my heart is Unbreakable".

Listen to "Unbreakable", out now: smarturl.it/Unbreakable_iTunes

New video for the song "Trapped": Smarturl.it/TrappedYT

[ New Single ] Joe Olnick Band releases "Downtown"

Artist:Joe Olnick Band
Single: "Downtown"
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          The Joe Olnick Band is an instrumental rock group based out of Harrisburg PA. They infuse elements of jazz, funk into their groove based sound. On their latest single release "Downtown", we find that even without vocals, their music speaks volumes. Influenced early on by ambient rock bands like Pink Floyd and Phish, Joe Olnick has mastered his instrument as a indie/groove guitarist.

          The Joe Olnick Band consists of  guitar, bass, and drums. Combined they create dynamic rock grooves, and memorable lead melodies that smolder and shift seamlessly from an "in the pocket" groove, to letting the sound soar out into the atmosphere. His past albums have gained a great deal of radio traction, including the iconic Philadelphia station WXPN, along with local independent and college radio stations in the region. Mastered by Grammy Award winning producer Reuben Cohen (Foo Fighters, Ryan Adams) in Burbank, CA, you can expect high quality tracks from their upcoming album release, set for October 20, 2017.

          "Downtown" begins with a warm, smooth bass tone, over top a tight funk chill-out beat. In the background there is an organ-like atmospheric sound, which is actually effected guitar.  As the song develops the band finds their ebb & flow, as lead guitar makes a smooth entrance. Going into the high register on the guitar, it soars and pulls at the emotions before dropping back into the rhythm section. The track ends with a punchy combined rhythmic shift, and goes out with a bang. Overall, a great sounding, solid release from Joe Olnick band, and we are looking forward to hearing the rest of the album.

Upcoming Shows:

Sat, Oct 21 @ 7:00 PM: The Rabbit and Dragonfly, 51 N Market St, Lancaster, PA

Joe Olnick Band, with special guest Electives Doors: 6:30 $5 cover charge All ages, BYOB

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  Listen to "Downtown" on Soundcloud, and Check out the video here:

[ New Single ] Listen to "Nashville", the latest release from Michael Askin

Artist: Michael Askin
Single: "Nashville"
Album: Road by the River
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          "Nashville" is the latest single from singer songwriter Michael Askin from his 2017 release: Road by the River. Hailing from New Brunswick NJ, Michael has played in several local bands (My State of Attraction, Divine Sign), and taken influence from rock heavyweights like Keith Richards, and Neil Young. Michael also has the ability to seamlessly take his songs into the alt-country / folk genres as well.
 From Michael's bio:
"Like everyone else, Michael Askin has pondered his place in the world, fallen in and out of love, and searched for happiness. However, Michael has the unique ability to weave all of those sentiments into undeniably catchy pop songs. Once the “guitarist with mystique” in such Jersey rock bands as Divine Sign and My State of Attraction, this alt-country everyman is now prepared to offer up his own powerful voice and music to anyone prepared to listen." 


          Michael Askin is one of those songwriters you turn to at any point in your life. His songs touch you on a deeply personal level, while still leaving enough room for the listener to relate the lyrics to their own lives. A skill many songwriters wish to have, but few attain. His music is reminiscent of singer songwriter Jason Isbell, who is a good example of a songwriter who can float between Americana, folk. country, and rock styles.

Let's take a look at Michael Askin's song "Nashville":
          Crisp acoustic guitar starts off the song, followed by crystal clear vocals that come in right away singing, "I was in Nashville, I came for the music, this town's got a good thing going, they know how to abuse it". The song starts to build with slide guitar, then the drums and percussion kick in, bringing us into the second verse. Michael paints the listener a picture of a traveler who has landed themselves in Nashville TN, taking a look at things from the outside.
          "I'm on the outside looking in, you're on the inside saddled with doubt".  Harmonies and ring out, creating a rich layer of sound for the last chorus. Bass and drums build and break down slowly to the end. This song has a beautiful flow, and feel. Perfect for a long midnight drive, or an early morning chill out. Smooth, strong and sweet, just like a good cup of coffee on a sleepy Sunday morning.

Take a listen to "Nashville", and check out his upcoming show schedule on Reverbnation.

[ New Music ] Slow Burning Car - release single "Soul Crimes"

Artist: Slow Burning Car

Single: “Soul Crimes” 
Album: Defection

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Weezer, Guns n’ Roses, Metallica, Rage Against the Machine… these are just a few of the huge rock bands based out of Los Angeles. Today we set our sights on a band on the rise, LA rockers Slow Burning Car. 

Slow Burning Car takes inspiration from English alternative rock bands Swervedriver and New Model Army. They are also Influenced by American rock bands Queens of the Stone age, and Black Sabbath. The band is made up of Troy Spiropoulos on lead vocals and bass, Adam Idell on drums and backing vocals, along with Tommy Marcel on guitar and backing vocals.

This September, Slow Burning Car released their highly anticipated fourth album, “Defection”. You can hear the Ozzy Osbourne similarities in singer Troy’s vocals, and the heavy melodic sound from their explosive single “Soul Crimes”.

Without delay “Soul Crimes” takes off with crisp guitar, warm steady bass, and a classic rock beat into the verses, the band changing dynamically to put a spotlight on vocals. “It seems the more you give the more they take, a losing battle you fight everyday”. The world can seem chocked full of negativity, disappointment, and insincerity at times. Often we can find ourselves being put down by loved ones, or told to keep expectations low. Slow Burning Car is here to remind us that we have all the tools for success and happiness right within ourselves. “They underestimate your sense, the heart that beats beneath your breast, I see it all inside of you”.

          Tommy Marcel takes the lead halfway through the song with a notable, impassioned guitar solo. Adam Idell and Troy Spiropoulos holding down the rhythm. Spriopoulos with perfect timing and tone on the bass, perfectly complementing Idell’s tight hi-hat pattern on the drums.

          “Soul Crimes” would be the perfect companion to a late night drive into the city, a friday night house party soundtrack, or your afternoon pick me up playlist. Keep a lookout for more tracks from “Deception”. If you’re in the LA area, make sure to check out their CD Release show Saturday, November 11th, at 8:30pm at The Grand Annex (434 W.6th St., San Pedro, CA, 90731). All Ages. Full Bar (21+).

Or pick up a physical copy of “Defection” at:

Amoeba Records (6400 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood, CA, 90028)

Fingerprints Records (420 E. 4th St., Long Beach, CA, 90802)

JDC Records (447 W.6th St., San Pedro, CA, 90731).