[ 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 Music ] Nashville singer songwriter Sam Rochford releases new single + video "So Easy"

Artist: Sam Rochford

Song: "So Easy"
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Sam Rochford is a singer-songwriter and on-air correspondent for 650 AM WSM "Nashville Today". Originally from Connecticut, she was the host of "Markov Music" on Boston's popular internet radio station WEMF. Through years of sharing her music with loyal YouTube followers and growing Facebook fans, Sam has established herself as a consistent source of great independent music. Sam's music is influenced by modern Americana artists like the Mountain Goats, Amanda Shires, and classic performers like Patsy Cline, and Bob Dylan. She writes and performs regularly around Nashville and takes part in everything "music city" has to offer. Her latest single, “So Easy” is charting nationally on the independent country charts, and gaining traction with music lovers of all walks of life. Today we are listening to "So Easy"

Combining the clever, honey-smothered country twang of Kacey Musgraves, and the tried and true lyrical mastery of Patsy Cline, Sam Rochford is an honest talent to watch. "Well this might be a first, I laughed until my sides hurt, it's a workout but it's never been so easy".  Acoustic guitar and vocals in the forefront, Sam sings about a love that needs no tailoring, one where each person accepts the other for exactly who they are. "From the outside looking in, you and i might not make sense, but in practice something's never been so easy". Slide guitar, and snare rolls ebbing and glowing in perfect time with the rises and falls of each hook. Sam's voice has a unique quality you can't quite put your finger on, smooth, with a tone so sweet and inviting, packing power behind each syllable. Overall this song is a beautiful ode to unconditional love, that's never been 'so easy' to add to our next indie spotify playlist.

You can watch the (ADORABLE) video for "So Easy" below:

[ New Music ] JJ McGuigan releases new single + video "In All Honesty"

Artist: JJ McGuigan
Song: "In All Honesty"
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JJ McGuigan is an award-winning singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and mental health advocate from Wichita, Kansas. He was a finalist in the VH1 Save The Music Songwriting Contest, along with his music being heard on hundreds of radio stations around the world. A drummer since age 13, McGuigan later picked up the guitar and began writing songs in his early twenties. He attended Newman University and Full Sail University, a renowned music recording school that furthered his appreciation for the landscape that songs are draped across before they are shown to the world. Songwriting has now become JJ’s main focus and passion, with an emphasis on lyrical creation.


"In All Honesty" has a warm Appalachian feel, with acoustic guitar and vocals beginning the song. Each rotation of the chorus introduces new instruments to the mix; bass, lead guitar melodies, drums, percussion bells, and more rhythmic guitar. Vocals are perfectly set, and emotive as they describe the story of a person soul-searching, in pursuit of love or a human connection so strong that it makes life worth living and exploring. The overall tone of the song creates a contemplative urgency to the lyrics, like getting lost on a long hike as night begins to fall.  "...And in all honesty, I've been searching for someone, someone like me (to set me free)"

You can watch the video for "In All Honesty" by JJ McGuigan below:

[ Holiday Music ] Amilia K Spicer gives us the warm and fuzzy feelings with her Christmas tune "Love's For Living"

Artist: Amilia K Spicer
Song: "Love's For Living"
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Amilia K Spicer is a Los Angeles based singer-songwriter influenced by soul, pop, and Americana music. She was first discovered at an LA club, which led to a rare main-stage debut at Kerrville Folk Festival, three performances at the Kennedy Center, and song placements on high profile TV productions like Party of Five, and Dawson's Creek. Her songwriting and vocal prowess has been compared to the great Lucinda Williams, and Emmylou Harris. Today we are listening to an original Christmas song from Amilia, titled "Love's For Living".

          It's that time of year again where our hearts triple in size, and we are flooded with nostalgia, bulky cable knit sweaters, and endless piles of wrapping paper and cookie sheets. This year, why not curate yourself a new holiday playlist! We think the perfect place to start is with Amilia K Spicer's uplifting song "Love's For Living". We get all those warm and fuzzy feelings, along with a fun song production featuring a full band, and bright glockenspiel, and thoughtful layers of organ, guitar, and vocals weaving in and out in perfect harmony. "All's forgiven in the world tonight, love's for living now, wish right on that star up in the sky, love's for living now".

          Amilia's voice is crystal clear in the focus, delivering sweet and effortless melodic hooks, catchy repetition of the songs title in the chorus. Underneath all the gloss of the songs recording, lies a an message of living and loving this life to the fullest. Something we could all work a littler harder towards every day. Make sure to watch Amilia K Spicer's Official video for "Love's For Living" below, and check out her other releases on her bandcamp and website!

[ New Music ] Sarah Morris's new single "Falling Over" is the perfect blend of sweet and haunting

Artist: Sarah Morris
Track: "Falling Over"
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          Sarah Morris is a classically trained, and refreshingly authentic singer-songwriter from Minneapolis, MN. Her songwriting started to take shape at an early age, thumbing through her parent's diversified record collection, and eventually developing her own penchant for country music and lyric writing. Influenced by musicians like Alison Krauss, Patty Griffin, Brandi Carlile, and Kacey Musgraves, it's easy to see why people are highly anticipating the release of Sarah's latest record. Spending a few years living and performing in Nashville instilled strong structure and storytelling craftsmanship to Sarah's work. Now with the camaraderie of bandmates Thomas Nordlund, Zachary Shmidt, and Andrew Foreman, the group plans to use the momentum of "Hearts In Need Of Repair", to bring Sarah's music to new heights! The album features 11 new songs, recorded at RiverRock Studios in Minneapolis. Each said to "showcase Sarah’s signature vocals and conversational lyricism, exploring vulnerability, heartbreak, and grown-up, imperfect love". On Sarah's latest single, "Falling Over", we couldn't agree more.

          Right away our ears are pulled in with warm slide guitar, with an almost banjo-like quality. Percussion is grooving along, with a walking bass line out of a western movie. Acoustic guitar chords accompany the rhythm section, adding nice touches at the bridge, as we start to hear a higher pitched organ floating above everything, adding a layer of enchanting harmony.  Sarah's voice is crystal clear, fully immersed in what she's singing.

"I can hear the waves crashing,
I can hear the wind moan,
I don't need to stand on the edge
to know what's lying below"

          Beautiful imagery, and wisdom dripping from every word. You don't need to stick your hand in the fire to know you'll get burned, and you don't need to take our word to know Sarah Morris's new single is an ode to Americana / folk that can stand tall, and proudly on it's own. "Hearts In Need Of Repair" will be available at iTunes, Spotify, Bandcamp, Amazon, and all those other online musical outlets on Friday, November 17^th. We'll be counting down the days.

In the meantime, check out the album trailer below:

[ Album Review ] Franki Love releases "Otias"

Artist: Franki Love
Album: Otias
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          Franki Love is an award-winning singer-songwriter, and classically trained pianist living in Los Angeles, and NYC. Her songs revolve around her piano-based pop melodies, and tug at your heart strings with moving vocal performances and exciting arrangements. Franki's latest album sports multiple producers, including Grammy Award winning David Kershenbaum, Jeremy Dawson, who worked with Shiny Toy Guns, along with a few songs produced by Franki Love herself.
          Throughout the album we are introduced to different sides of Franki Love. After losing her mother, and her mentor soon after, this album has a soul searching quality to it. Reflective, emotional at times, all outlined with a silver lining of hope, and having faith in the healing process.
          Our favorite tracks on "Otias" are  the humbled and thankful, "Shoes", singing "Until you walk in someone's shoes, You don't know what they're going through"; to the soulful pop track "First Degree" with it's catchy chorus, and pop production; along with the last track on the record "Lullaby", stripped down to just piano and Franki's vocals, we get chills listening to her voice, "Hold me like water, touch me like rain, tell them to wait a minute, nothing's more important than this... are my lips the last that you'll kiss? ".
          From local coffee shops in Los Angeles, to performing internationally at "Cannes Film Festival" in France, Franki Love is definitely someone to keep on your radar! Her album "Otias" is available to stream & purchase on Bandcamp, and Itunes. You can also download 3 free songs from her website when you sign up for her email list.

[ Album Review ] Karlos O' Connor releases Collywobbles

Artist: Karlos O'Connor
Album: Collywobbles
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          Karlos O' Connor is an independent folk musician based out of Melbourne Australia. O'Connor lists some of his musical influences as  American singer-songwriter Jeff Buckley, English folk rocker Keaton Henson, and the lyrical mastery of Bright Eyes. Whether you're feeling your stomach drop full speed on a roller coaster, or about to bump into your crush in line at the coffee shop... we've all felt those butterflies floating around in our stomachs at one time or another. The term for that feeling is actually called "Collywobbles", and it's the title of Karlos O' Connor's latest release. Very appropriately named, O'Connor's album takes us on a post-relationship journey, and the mixed bag of feelings that comes with that.
          At first listen each song has an underlying hopeful feel, layering acoustic guitar, and delicate ringing harmonics with occasional piano, and moving string sections. Throughout the album things build dynamically adding percussion, bass, effected electric guitars, and vocal harmonies. You can feel the lingering sadness in O'Connor's voice also shifting back and forth from longing to slight anger, to indifference.. occasionally showering us with humorous honesty while saying "I don't like people, especially not you, I only like food, and sleep, and chocolate and sweets, and TV, really anything but you" Very self aware, O'Connor sings, "I know I'm overly sarcastic, I wish I could care" ...right before ripping into a whistle & spoon solo.
           On the track "Over My Head", Karlos sings "Since you left I just sit, eat, and drink a lot, hoping for the day I can let go, trying not to fall through these walls, through this floor"...Like all things, it takes time to fall into the swing of life after it comes crashing down around you.
          The last track, "Collywobbles", O'Connor really digs his teeth in, and taps into his raw emotions. Painting imagery of a butterfly flying away from the bleeding butterflies inside of himself... asking for a second chance, for the butterfly to fly back to him, "Come home to me" once more. Bittersweet, and forlorn at times, this is an impressive collection of songs from Karlos O'Connor. We look forward to what's next to come from this indie folk troubadour.


If you're local to Melbourne make sure to pick up a hand-painted copy of "Collywobbles" from Karlos O'Connor.  Or download / stream the album on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/album/4Qm0XbIEJNzD7tKNe4ZVbB

[ New Single ] Shauna Burns releases "Scarborough Fair"

Artist: Shauna Burns
Track: "Scarborough Fair"
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          Shauna Burns is an accomplished pianist, and singer-songwriter based out of Salt Lake City, Utah. Growing up in Miami Florida, Shauna began her musical journey early on, taking influence from her mother's love of Sarah McLachlan, and Tori Amos's music. Shauna blends these pop-rock styles, with her own love for the Celtic and classical genres. Shauna also describes art as a big influence on her writing, Georgia O' Keefe, and Vincent Van Gogh's work being some of her inspirations.
          This October, Shauna Burns has released her highly anticipated single "Scarborough Fair", via Red Rock Music; transforming this traditional song into a modern day Celtic hit. When performing with a band, Shauna sings, and plays piano, accompanied by members James Clark (Drums & Percussion), Ryan Whyte Maloney (Guitar & Backing Vocals), Lindsey Springer (Cello), and Caroline Kemper (Celtic Harp).

          Listening to Shauna Burn's version of "Scarborough Fair", we are taken on a journey through the woods at dawn, and wide open green filled pastures. Mesmerizing piano and Celtic harp weave in and out as Shauna's haunting vocals shine through the mix. Singing like a truly seasoned musician, she uses silence and dynamics to create moments of peace and reflection. The piano and harp ebb & flow beautifully, each taking turns to support, and flourish throughout the piece.
          "Scarborough Fair" tells a tale of two lovers, both asking the other to prove their love with nearly impossible tasks. One line that sticks with us, "Tell her to find me an acre of land, between the salt water and the sea...". Shauna Burns sings the female's reply to the songs male counterpart, bringing her unique vocal talents to this traditional ballad. We thoroughly enjoyed listening to this new release, and anticipate many more from this talented Salt Lake City songstress.

Take a listen to a snippet from Shauna Burns version of "Scarborough Fair" here:

[ New Single ] Ben Brookes "Integration (Not Segregation)"

Artist: Ben Brookes
Single: "Integration (Not Segregation)"
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          Ben Brookes is an acoustic rock singer-songwriter from the southern shores of Portsmouth, UK. He came to the United States to have his album produced with Mark Healey (Badfinger), along with the help of a Minneapolis based record label. His range of  influences are from British pop icons The Beatles, to American Folk rockers Bob Dylan and Johnny Cash.
Here's our review of Ben Brookes first single "Integration (Not Segregation)"from his debut album The Motor Car and The Weather Balloon.


        Ben Brookes sings longingly for a new world made up of the good things from this life. Leaving behind things that divide us as people like religion and race.  In his newly released single, "Integration (Not Segregation)", Brookes tackles a lot of controversial topics, including the potential for a WWIII and the use of weapons of mass destruction that could wipe out everyday existence. He follows this line of thought, questioning why there is such hate in the world, when it could be taken away at any moment. Things like racism and segregation,"Funny how the world is divided by race, but cut anyone in half and you know we all bleed the same". Brookes also talks about building a finding his way to Mars to start a new life, "It seems as though we're living in a world of oppression and fear, that's why I plan to build a rocket and get myself out of here". With the help of a Minneapolis record label (Martin-Guild), and a band made up of very accomplished musicians, Ben Brookes has a fully produced, radio ready sound on his track, including acoustic guitar, lead guitar, piano, synth effects, bass and drums. His vocals are crystal clear, and focused on sharing his message to listeners. The band has great dynamics, and an ear for melody and hooks. Overall this is a great recording, and just a glimpse of what's to come from Ben Brookes debut album The Motor Car and The Weather Balloon (coming soon), which we look forward to hearing.

Check out the video for "Integration (Not Segregation)" 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.

[ Video ] NJ Pop Singer-Songwriter Marc Ambrosia releases Debut Music Video

Marc Ambrosia
"Let Me Be Your Secret"
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          New Jersey artist, Marc Ambrosia. Marc is a 22 year old singer/ songwriter who began writing songs at age 15 after the loss of his mother and then the loss of his best friend just 6 months later.

          Born and raised in Clayton, NJ, Marc has been singing since age 5. Beginning with performing gospel music, Marc later ventured into rock music and now he’s diving into more natural territory with pop music. He’s also managed to bring his gospel trained vocals into the mix, making for a fusion of pop and soul in his latest 11 songs, which he’ll be releasing one by one over the next year. One song that’s already been released is “Let Me Be Your Secret” and just last week, Marc released his debut music video for the track.

          Able to cut deep with lyrics and captivate with soul, Ambrosia is proving he's pop music's best kept secret. in an industry that focuses on tabloid rather than artistry, Ambrosia is committed to taking the high road. "It's always disheartening to hear a kid say they want to make music and become a star," Ambrosia explains, "for me, it's never once been about hoping to take the world by storm and become superstar famous. It's always been first and foremost about telling beautiful stories and making great art."

          Ambrosia has a talent for writing catchy melodies, and a great ear for pop production. "If courage be the strength of love, fear shall be it's promise", Ambrosia sings of fighting past hesitation and fear of losing at love. In his debut music video we are taken on a journey of discovery through a crowded college party, a sunny forest walk, dancing on the rooftop in the city, and on a train headed back to the same party where he first sees the girl who inspires his 'secret' smile.

Take a moment to check out Marc Ambrosia's Official Music Video for:
"Let Me Be Your Secret"
Skyler Jenkins Films

[ Album Review ] Kelly Vaughn - 10,000 Charms

Artist: Kelly Vaughn
Album: 10,000 Charms
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     Kelly Vaughn delivers a satisfying collection of contemporary Christian songs on his latest record "10,000 Charms". With a sound described as "pop-rock with a positive message and great blues solos", we couldn't agree more. Musically the album flows between uplifting rock n' roll,  and reflective bluesy ballads. Simply brilliant blues guitar lines peppered in left and right, along with a dynamic band and great production quality. If you listen closely you can hear influences of gritty soulful artists like Rob Thomas, and Santana. While also keeping up with contemporary pop and modern day music similar to John Mayer and Maroon 5.

     Vaughn's voice shines on the single "1,000 Times Before", with harmonies that tug at your heart strings. "You are my light, you'll save my soul, you'll be my guide when I come to you like I've done 1,000 times before".
     On his song "You're No Good" Kelly sings about a love that went awry. Reflecting on someone who turned out not to be a good influence in his life. Emotive guitar lines in the musical break speak volumes "I took all your pictures off the wall, just to help me get over you, but I've got something you can't touch, I've got my pride, and I've got my six string".
     Vaughn really shows off his guitar chops on "All Nite Long, starting off with a piano, bass, and drums blues groove, with lead guitar sliding through the mix; like butter melting on a hot buttered roll.
     We are brought back down on the last track "Hold Me Close", Kelly takes us to a warm and compelling place, asking someone special in your life to stick around. "Hold me close don't let me go"

All in all "10,000 Charms" is a poignant, uplifting, and thoughtful collection of songs from Kelly Vaughn. With a new band line up, and this album in hand, he's sure to take 2017 by storm.

Make sure to follow Kelly on Reverbnation, and Facebook for upcoming performances and releases!

[ Interview ] Philadelphia Musician and Songwriter, Josh Miller!

Josh Miller is a singer songwriter, and multi -instrumentalist based out of Philadelphia PA. When he's not performing his original tunes, you can catch him playing with the alt-folk band Former Belle.  Make sure you check out his music on Facebook, Soundcloud, YouTube, Twitter. 

How do you take your coffee, tea? 

Cream and Sugar!

- can't go wrong there!

In this ever changing political climate, do you feel inspired to write, or do you feel overwhelmed?

Honestly my music is relatively introspective, so it really depends. It’s definitely really overwhelming to see what’s going on in this country, but it’s even more inspiring to see so many people marching and standing up for what they truly believe in. 

-that's a great way to look at things Josh, high fives for optimism!

Who were your 3 biggest musical influences in high school?

Underoath

Bon Iver

Bright Eyes

-but, who doesn't like Bon Iver, am i right?

Who are your 3 biggest musical influences right now?

Bon Iver (kind of anything Justin Vernon does…)

James Vincent McMorrow

My friends! (they make really great music)

- in the words of the aussie rocker Courtney Barnett in her tune "Are You Looking After Yourself" - "my friends play in bands, they are better than, everything on radio", we couldn't agree more.

Have you always lived in Philadelphia?

I grew up in Lower Moreland which is a suburb right outside of northeast philly, but I spent a lot of time taking the train to the city to go to shows. I also spent some time living in northern Colorado during high school. 

- that must've been a crazy transition from deserts and mountains, to suburbs and city trains, always great for the artist perspective

If you had a friend come from out of town wanting to see the city, where would you take them first?

I’d probably take them to Bourbon & Branch because the food is amazing and there’s usually a good show happening!

- A++ choice

What’s your favorite song you’ve ever written? ( and why?)

My favorite song as of right now that I’ve written is a song called “Visitors”. It sat on my computer in an Ableton project for about a year, and then one night everything kind of came together. It starts with a really simple chord progression and then by the end it swells into this big orchestral arrangement. Musically and lyrically it’s a song that was super different for me and has encouraged me to step outside of my comfort zone. 

- go ahead, give it a listen, it's so so good. 

 

Anything you’d like to share with us? (Upcoming shows, singles, projects, fun facts)

Right now I’m working on either a series of EPs or an LP and I can’t make up my mind because I have musical A.D.D.

March 19th I’ll be playing a set at The Barbary with my good buddies from Nashville called The Middle Ground. They’re on tour supporting their new record “Start Again” and it’s really great!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1738177446497288/

- we can't wait to hear your upcoming releases, thank you for taking the time to talk with us. I'm sure it won't be the last time. Cheers. 

[ Album Review ] Camille Peruto - From the Sea to the Sky

Artist: Camille Peruto
Album: From the Sea to the Sky
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 Camille Peruto's sophomore album "From the Sea to the Sky" is your road trip's new best friend. This collection of well-crafted songs will take you on a journey through self discovery, chasing your ambitions, and embracing the love around you. "From the Sea to the Sky" was recorded at Firehouse Studio's in Oceanport NJ. It was completely crowdfunded by a successful Kickstarter Campaign in 2016.
Camille has been a staple in the South Jersey, and Tri-state area music scene. When she isn't writing, or in the studio, you can catch her performing nearly every weekend. Make sure to catch her (second) CD release this Saturday at the Kathedral Event Center in Hammonton NJ: Tickets

TRACK BY TRACK

Crooked Roads - Have you ever encountered melodies that would make ice cream melt? Well now you have. Reminiscent of early Sara Bareilles, with upbeat piano, and cool synth surf-rock vibes. Thoughtful percussive choices, including claps,and  tambourine. While layering in simple bass lines, and endless harmonies that build throughout the song, giving it beautiful depth. "Where crooked roads go, nobody knows"

Biscuit Moon - Very intrigued by the imagery of the title, beautiful acoustic guitar brings us into this song...smooth, calm, patient storytelling. "its not a question baby, i'm not an easy fix"  Singing from a place of a woman, digging deep exploring the world at her fingertips, an old soul speaking from within. The drums are deep and pushing, like a heart beat resonating in a cushioned cage. A late night walk under the "biscuit moon". "Isn't it a funny little world we live in, driven to a soul for reasons we will never know.. and I am on my way home"

Can't Get Away - This song is a slow fiery burn, the chorus comes in like a sledge hammer, blasting through your bedroom wall. Similar to Milky Choice's ambient reggae-esque guitar lines with simple percussive beats. "Oh no say you wont go, say you wont go" the song is the perfect influence of the song  "Sail"  by Awolnation, with strong pop vocals, and Camille's unique vocal inflections. Weaving background vocals, over a dark and stormy landscape. "You can drive all night, but you cant get away from it"


Silent Melody - Silent Melody feels like the new wave of reggae / pop -soul. Mixing in synth-hop drum beats, crunchy electric guitars, and ambient tones floating high in the background, all the while telling a story of two lovers with fun lyrical twists "you're like a silent melody, i can hear the tune, you got me fighting for the key"

Let Go -  Camille is an acoustic powerhouse, completely in her element with this song.  A killer chorus, with a strong hook. "I hear the sirens calling my name, they leave me blinded with great deals of shame, but i'm giving my hope down on my knees". The bridge rings true showering us in a blissful, honest moment right before building right back up with the band into a powerful, hard hitting last chorus.

Sword -  Intriguing rhythms battle throughout this tune, dropping into a trippy medieval beat in the chorus, fitting for the song title. "love is faithful and fair, and we all find it somewhere". Expertly crafted harmonies and songwriting. "don't pick it apart, if you want it its yours, there's a hole in your heart, fill it up with a touch of love" The instrumental outro is a nice touch!

The High Road - (personal favorite)  Acoustic guitar and Camille's voice, is all she'll ever need for a hit record, which is exactly why this song is so amazing. Nothing is out of place, or looked over, each instrument is only added when it adds to the feeling behind the songs. The sign of a good ear, and great team of musicians and production. "Life is like a holiday, it passes fast but always stays in a way, and love is like an open door, that still closes but the light shines above the floor". The chorus is very catchy. The echoing vocal lines around the 2:30 mark are an intricate detail I admire about this song. Patient and confident, this song really shines bright, which allows Camille to sing to her heart's content at the end.

Crazy Crazy Mad - Edgy, with some attitude, you might find yourself tapping your fingers on your keyboard listening to this one. A song about letting go, and letting out all those frustrations with past relationships. Effortless high notes, and catchy hooks "Lets go crazy, crazy mad"

Set Up a Sail - Here we get to hear about a  musician, finally flying from the nest, setting out into the world to tour and find out if they can make the cut, while trying to hold on to the comforts of home. Something so many artists and musicians can relate to. "Set up a sail and direct me with the wind"  
Row Ghost - Imagine dusting off your favorite record, and hearing the vinyl crackling softly as the intro comes in. This song has a strong intro, with a unique guitar effects on the intro lick. a gorgeous song, with a powerful chorus. Peruto sings about the East Coast, and the Atlantic Ocean; Wanting to pay homage to her faithful listeners and family back home. "People say that better days are coming"

Lagoon -  Last but certainly not least, we are met with the eerily beautiful song "Lagoon". It is filled with clever word play, strong hooks and memorable lyrics. Deep crunchy bass / synth float in on the second verse, along with intricate drum parts, and backing vocals floating in like waves. Distorted vocals on the bridge, back into a smooth last chorus built up with all the elements of this great song. A somber, lost at sea feeling that is brings this album to a calming, peaceful close.

[ Album Review ] Last Letters - Nothing to Write Home About EP

Artist: Last Letters
Album: Nothing to Write Home About EP
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Last Letters is a collection of emo rock songs by singer / songwriter Charles Iwuc. Hailing from Boston MA, Charles makes an impressive debut with "Nothing to Write Home About". The EP was released November 11th, 2016 and features full band, high energy songs about the trials and tribulations of growing up, trying to find yourself, and the search for real love as a young adult. Last Letters has a sound similar to bands like Blink 182, My Chemical Romance, All Time Low, and modern pop punk bands like The Wonder Years, and Modern Baseball. Honest lyrics, powerful hooks, and impressive musical chops, we look forward to future releases from this Boston native!

Here's our review of "Nothing to Write Home About"

TRACK BY TRACK

Hold On – you can hear the footsteps on a wooden floor as Charles sits down with his acoustic guitar. Crisp acoustic chords start this serenade, drums come crashing in, with strong gang vocals in the chorus “selfish all the time, hang me out on the line, I wanted to tell you something, but all that came out was self- defeat… "Hold on, you’re mine,(forever and after)” This song is short and sweet... but don't let it fool you, the rest of this EP is high energy and melodic emo rock to its core. 

Twenty – Two – "Twenty two, I can't get away from your heart" Reminiscent of bands like Blink 182, Good Charlotte, and 30 Seconds to Mars. The airwaves are infiltrated with D-beats, incredibly in-sync electric guitars and bass lines, a song full of pop punk (and occasionally doom metal moments). The harmonies and gang vocals make it hard not to sing along. “You say don't smash your heart. This body is yours. You say we can practice our love right here on the floor" as the song fades away into guitar amp feedback. 

The Lake – (personal favorite) upbeat, punk beats rattle through the intro, Charles sings of a pretty girl with her hair up in the reflection of the sun, Summers spent trying to find yourself as you’re growing up “I want you to tell me what I have to do”... “you left me here on my own and I don’t know where to go now” High energy through and through,this song is very well produced, drums like machine guns, bass and airy electric guitars in the verses, that switch styles almost every few phrases, calls and responses...“I'll hold you over my shoulders, we’ll take a walk near the lake where its colder, give me a break and give me a moment, hear my words and let them sink in” Charles voice really shines on this track, going from smooth pop rock vocals, to raspy rockin' phrases. What's interesting is listening and not being able to predict what’s going to happen next.

One Cannon – the song starts with dark, crispy distorted bass “She makes me wanna drive all night"  Those late night drives to get to your girl or guy... most of us have been there... at least, I know The Proclaimers can relate! “She can hold my breath in one hand, lately I’m a wreck with one cannon” Screaming call and response, the energy is tangible, like a sweaty basement show in New Jersey. Everything dropping out at the end to an acoustic rendition of the chorus. 

Then and Now – cymbals and drums rage with electric guitar like a train running off the tracks, octaves and bass filling out the soundscape “When did life get so bland? I'm getting old and it's the cold that I can’t stand”..."Save me now, I'm running out of time" drums speed up to match the lyrical sentiment, like the music is an echo of the song. “in a bar staying up all night, drinking gin, wearing thin, it's quite alright” Long days, long night's and feeling like there's so much more you should be doing. Songs fueled by failed relationships, and the bright hope of being saved by renewed love. 

Lately – intricate electric guitar, pretty and ascending, panned warm fuzzed electric rhythm guitars, vocals with warm harmonies leave you on the edge of your seat, anticipating the chorus hook to drop “Lately, I'm hating how I couldn’t tell you how I felt” With a chill beat and electric guitar solo layered like butter on Italian bread, bass and rhythm sink its teeth into the second verse, showing a little more aggression as the story develops about two lovers, and a relationship not going very well. Synth/ String pads fill out the rapid drum sections, and pretty guitar solo. Charles drops his voice down effortlessly as the last chorus builds with snare rolls, and comes crashing back swinging, stalls on the drums and emotions flying high cause anticipation and build excitement as the song comes to an impressive ending. 

The Girl Next Door – Get ready for some epic girl at the rock show vibes “She put on my Saves the Day shirt and walked home, I guess I'll have to go and get it tomorrow” Charles talks about every teenage boys fantasy, falling in love with the girl next door, and all the intimate encounters that follow suit. Comically changing the name of the band t-shirt she walks away in each time the chorus comes around, shout-outs to Jimmy Eat World, The Starting Line “Do you wanna today? I’m already late, do you wanna today? I wanna get laid” An honest, relatable song, with melodies so catchy it'll be hard to shake this one out of your brain for the next few days. sidenote... the last chord of the album is just another example of the musical choices, and in depth production choices that make Last Letters stand out as a force to be reckoned with in the pop punk / emo rock genre. 

Make sure to follow Last Letters on Facebook, and Soundcloud!