Artist: Cloe Wilder Video: "Faking It" (Sasha Sloan Cover) Facebook Twitter Instagram YouTube YouTube has become the home for many young musicians to share their music and talents with a diverse audience. Most of the time that's from the security of their bedrooms, or local coffeeshop stages. Cloe Wilder has made the leap from introverted singer songwriter, to music video maven, creating her own visually striking aesthetic and feel in her latest cover video. Taking inspiration from Sasha Sloan's introspective breakup song "Faking It," the video takes place at an Urban Art Fair using various perspectives and art pieces to convey the illusion of reality. Much like the fake ideas and niceties that go into the end of a relationship. The moments right before you have "the talk" with your partner that brings everything to an end.
Cloe currently lives in Tampa, Florida. She is an advocate for equality, and mental health awareness who strives to embrace her own imperfections, while comforting listeners with her melancholy honest lyricism. As the late Leonard Cohen once said in his song Anthem, "there is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." Over the next year she plans to release more videos, originals and covers, on her YouTube channel and continue to grow her following online. Make sure to check out her stunning cover video for "Faking It", and subscribe to her channel for future uploads.
Blue Apollo is alternative rock / pop band based out of Dallas TX. Their music has been described as: "the bluesy
elements of John Mayer, the mellow groove and clean sound of Young the
Giant and the danceability of early Maroon 5".
We couldn't agree more. The band originated as a three piece, consisting of vocalist / guitarist Luke Nassar, drummer Jeremiah Jensen, and bassist Rodman Steele. Blue Apollo became a four piece with the addition of lead guitarist Jean Paul Labastida. The band has opened for alt-country heroes American Aquarium, the infectious electro-indie duo Cherub, and even the rapper / songwriter / entrepreneur Nelly. Today we are taking a listen to a song off of Blue Apollo's debut LP Light-Footed Hours (2016), titled "Circles".
"Circles" is an upbeat piano rock tune that showcases Blue Apollo's spot-on pop songwriting sensibilities. Vocals are steeped in heartwarming melodies, and also feature complimentary harmonies swelling underneath. This effect creates waves of euphoria and a certain level of beautiful intensity throughout the song. Lead singer Luke Nassar has one of those voices that cut through any mix. His range as a singer is impressive on this track, going from high falsetto, to his deep lower register during the verses.
"I don't want you to leave, unless you want to believe, that freedom comes with, never having been held down when you're spinning around in circles"
Bassist Rodman Steele and drummer Jeremiah Jensen are in total control of the rhythm section, blending straightforward pop beats, with a more intricate indie rock feel. Drums keep a consistent heavy-handed snare pocket, while incorporating crashes and volume dynamics. Lead guitar trickles and flows with the rhythm changes between sections, occasional bursting free for short melodic leads.
Did we mention that "Circles" is a bonus track added to the band's first album? You are surely in for a treat with Blue Apollo's debut LP Light-Footed Hours. Keep your ears to the ground for their next EP, coming out in early 2018. Watch the Official Video for "Circles" below:
Go-Go Sapien is a psych- pop band from Melbourne Australia. The current line up of band members includes Will Hindmarsh, Emily Jarrett, Cal Walker, Iain Wilson, and Kalon Salter. Their music is influenced by post punk, surf music, and sci-fi film scores. In 2006 the band formed under a different name, The Great Apes, and performed extensively in Melbourne before releasing 2 albums, "Merman" in 2009, and "This Body is Wrong For Us" in 2011, through Popboomerang Records. Their live performances have been described as "visually dynamic, energetic and theatrical - characteristically featuring outlandish matching uniforms and live film projections." Go-Go Sapien have just released their latest album "Love in Other Dimensions", recorded in Northcote at Tender Trap Studios through Headquarter Records. Let's take a listen.
On the intro track "The Imaginary Man" we are taken through the wormhole from our everyday reality, into a wildly vivid, sonic dimension full of layered synthesizers, organs, and effects. Things get sentimental on "Truth-Dare-Torture" , delayed snare hits, and deep heartbeat sounding kick. A heavy cloud of synth and organs, with vocals singing over top, "To think of a live without love, what exactly were you dreaming of?". Vocals shine throughout the record, occasionally featuring female vocals as lead and adding harmonies. Reminiscent of the late David Bowie, and his alter ego "Ziggy Stardust". the main singer's voice is crisp and focused, delivering powerful imagery of galactic proportions.
Some other stand out tracks on the album are the punk inspired tune, "Winona", and the surf rock vibes of "Feel the Spirits (Juju Surf)". It's hard not to imagine sitting on the beach of another planet, red sand, green ocean waves.. the distant sounds of people talking and waves crashing while listening to this song. Overall, the entire collection is a beautiful work of art. Listening to "Love in Other Dimensions" is like talking a walk through a museum. You will find yourself stopping to admire things about each piece, sitting down to reflect and connect with some, while also taking mental notes of others to go back to when you get home.
The best thing is... you can get your own copy of "Love in Other Dimensions" on their bandcamp, available now!
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.
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".
Man Called Noon is a indie rock/ pop band based out of Chicago, IL. The band's sophomore album "The Bad Guy" was produced by Steven Shirt & Matt Cerritos at SHIRK Studios in Chicago, IL . This time they are focused on diving into the pop scene, with catchy melodic hooks, while featuring danceable infectious energy. The band has toured, and started to create a big name for themselves in the Chicago music scene. Man Called Noon stands apart from the pack with their impressive songwriting sensibilities, and blending their rock, grunge, and pop influences into a diverse lively sound. Influenced by bands like the Foo Fighters, The Strokes, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, and Bruce Springsteen, we look forward to hearing their next album.
Here are our thoughts on their newly released single "Everybody Move":
Right away you are drawn in by a catchy lead guitar line, and huge sounding production featuring piano, lead and rhythm guitar, bass, drums and multiple vocalists singing layered harmonies and shining light on different parts of the verse lyrics. Tight bass and drums drive the energy, while vocals sing in perfect unison to "Go, go, go", and "Everybody Move". It's hard not to imagine a big dance floor at a concert with people jumping up and down, singing along to this song at the top of their lungs, all the while dancing with wild abandon. Reminiscent of the band Walk the Moon, and their hit single "Shut Up and Dance with Me", the song pushes out positive vibes from start to finish. Man Called Noon flexes their songwriting skills with the band shifting on the fly, allowing a bright, soaring guitar solo that brings us into the last chorus, bursting with upbeat energy.Overall this is an incredible release from the Chicago pop rockers Man Called Noon. "Everybody Move" is radio ready, and will surely be stuck in our heads the rest of the week.
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
Smooth heartfelt pop vocals reminiscent of Michael Buble and
singers from the British Invasion, crisp studio quality recordings, and sleek
thoughtful production, “The Night Turns to Morning Light” is a pleasant listening
experience from start to finish. Marin Lucassen is an adult contemporary pop-rock
singer from the Netherlands. Since 2014, Lucassen has been working to create a
more professional sound by collaborating with other musicians, and surrounding
himself with a team he can trust when it comes to recording, mixing, mastering, and releasing his new collection of songs. Within 8 months, Martin released his
first full length album, filled with catchy, upbeat, and lyrically motivated
tunes. I’m sure it won’t be long before these songs start to infiltrate your
ears on the radio, and start circulating online. Martin has a unique skill of writing
memorable hooks, and infectious melodies. This combined with a professional
band, and highly arranged backing vocals, really sets the bar high.
Here’s our review of “The Night Turns to Morning Light”
TRACK BY TRACK
Come to Me – An exciting energetic start to a great album. “Come
to me, I’ll give you everything you need” A song between two lovers, finding
happiness and safety in each other’s company. “Open your heart, you can trust
me”. Piano, acoustic guitar, and warm harmony vocals bring out the depth behind
Lucassen’s lyrics, bringing out the title of the whole collection “The night
turns to morning light”
Love You from Scratch – Air tight rhythm section drives this
song, laying a solid foundation for Lucassen’s voice. “Words roll off your lips
like waves on the ocean, and your eyes were shimmering pools of emotion” very
pretty imagery, singing of a love that is solid and very true.
Love Me Right Now – bass and electric guitar come in strong,
contemporary rock vibes “kiss me right now, touch me right now, hold me right
now, love me love me love right now”. Harmonica shines throughout the song,
Lucassen’s vocals are raw and powerful similar to singers from the 60’s like
the Beatles. The hook of the song is very catchy, and strong.
Break the Glass – things slow down, the beat comes in slow
and powerful “butterfly behind glass, how has it come to this” Lucassen sings
of a past lover who has found a new love that may be toxic, and how now he
wishes he could help “Gather all your courage and break the glass”
Heart on Fire – probably the most rock styled song on the
album, fast paced drums and guitars bring out the energy. “She sets my heart on
fire” Impressive electric guitar solo in the middle brings the last chorus in
with warm catchy backup harmonies.
What You Mean to Me – acoustic guitar, and bass keep pushing
along, as Lucassen sings “Do you know what you mean to me?” begging his love
not to leave, trying to remind her what she means to him.
I Love You More – beautiful chorused backup vocals blend
with Lucassen’s smooth vocals. Alt-country vibes, slide guitar, and organ
sounds really fill out the soundscape, while lyrics chime in “feeling your arms
around me, is like coming home, pulls me closer to you, no room to feel alone”
Do You Want Some Love – (personal favorite) upright bass,
accordion, and a waltzy beat transport you to Paris on a warm summer night. “Do
You Want Some Love, Do You Want Me, Am I good enough to get your love?” Seeking
reassurance from his lover, this song paints a picture of a budding romance,
ready to take the next step.
Happy Travelers – percussive acoustic guitar, tambourine,
and surf rock rhythms start this song, relaxed and upbeat “we’re happy
travelers, who want to see and explore, we’re cheerful travelers, who want to
feel and adore” a song for the wandering spirit, and the treasures you might
find when you explore.
How Will It Be – Lead guitar shines on this track, jazzy and
warm, over top a standard rock groove. Lucassen sings about all the different
sides of the person he loves. “The look in your eyes, is so wild and free” This
is the song you and your date go to hit the dance floor and slow dance to.
These are the Times – Electric guitar blends perfectly with
acoustic, dynamically shifting and dropping into new sections. “These are the
times, so get going, these are the times, and it’s your life, so spread your
wings and fly”. A sweet motivational message about living your life right now,
these are the times. Harmonies in the chorus come in and really add to the
intensity and power of the hook.
Beauty All Around – “Everything’s so beautiful, I can’t
believe it’s real, it’s been such a long time, since I found a need to feel”
the last track of this album brings all the messages full circle, wanting to be
surrounded by beauty, but still not being fully tied down to a relationship, or
other commitments, just enjoying all the splendor of love, and the emotions
that come with it. Drums and acoustic guitar drive this tune, floating
harmonies bringing out the feelings underneath the lyrics.
You can keep up with Martin Lucassen's music, and upcoming releases on his website:
GREYE is a Progressive Americana band from Daytona Beach, FL. They are made up of four permanent members; Hannah Summer on vocals, Jett Wolfe on guitar and vocals, Josh Reid on the bass and vocals, Ray Grimard on drums and percussion. When touring schedules permit, Ken-e Williams joins the mix on Keyboard and vocals. GREYE has played many stages, large and small, including festival showcases, and songwriting competitions. A big band, with a big sound, we look forward to all that is to come for GREYE. Here's our review of their newest release "The Worrier"
TRACK BY TRACK
A Little Honesty – An upbeat start to a fantastic album. Bass, organ and electric
guitars build and leave space for vocals, and surf
like guitar sways in and out, harmonies help create a powerhouse chorus “What it
all comes down to, if you choke, if you’re broke, you come back swinging” Picture yourself strutting down the street like John Travolta in Saturday Night Fever on a warm summer night, moving to the beat of this modern R&B rock fusion jam. A song about being completely honest,
boiling things down to nothing, and building everything back up from an unwavering foundation.
Tell A Little Lie – Acoustic guitar leads us into this next
track, the band adding layers of sound as vocals set in smooth and powerful, telling it like it
is, while also telling a little lie here and there. The rest of the band comes in to
sing the chorus “Tell a little lie”, as you’re sucked back
into the groove. The song continues to build and build, with a vibrant electric guitar solo, flowing synthesizers, all the while the chorus is coming back swinging, each time with a little more force.
The Worrier – “Give me a sign that will stop my heart from
aching over that man” a descending groove “they say all wounds heal with time,
but how does it heal when it’s not real” strong female vocals reminiscent of Carrie Underwood sing of a love gone awry. Dynamically shifting with percussive acoustic guitar, to electric
guitars and heavier drum beats, piano
and strings shine at the bridge laying a smooth foundation for the last chorus to
bring the lyrics of the song full circle. A woman angry that she ever wasted time and energy “worrying over
that man”. While also shedding a bit of honesty, maybe showing that despite everything the feelings are still there ...“I live and I die over that man”
Don’t Lose Your Cool – Deep snare hits, combined with funky lead and rhythm guitars weave in and out between the singers vocals. “The secret is out, do you still want me? I
want you” ... “I have been a sinner, I never claimed to be a saint” Seductive,
flirtatious lyrics, a conversation between two lovers, trying to play it cool,
but find assurance in their mutual love. The harmonies in the bridge, with hypnotic ascending bass riff that drive the whole band. “Don’t lose your
cool, the secret is out” One of the finest moments on “The Worrier”, seamlessly
transitioning back into the funky feel of the beginning, like a drop of dew rolling of
a leaf after fresh rain into the grass below.
She’s Crazy – “a scavenger for conflict” a man always looking for more, and a woman who is “swinging at the fence” saying she’s been knocking at his door since the day he
stopped calling. A lyrical story unfolds of past lovers, a man who made the
mistake of being with one woman before finding out she was crazy “she’s crazy
but I guess you never know”. The pitfalls of love tend to make the best
songwriting material. “There’s a sunset in the distance, and a curtain drawing
closed”.
Everything – pretty acoustic guitar and piano flow together
nicely to start this tune. We are introduced to a male singer, strong, with a
subtle rasp quality to his voice. Blending perfectly in harmony with the female vocals. A song about the "What if's?" in life. A
rockin’ duet, chilling with honesty. The male singer
reassuring and calm with “everything is going to fall into place”, the female singer asking, concerned “what
if we fall short”. Warm sustained bass notes round out the last verse, bringing this sweet-natured song to a close.
Solitary Man – things slow down, the mood darkens for a
moment, as to reflect the life of a lonely, solitary man. “I have seen him
wander, and I’ve peered into his soul, there is no life for the lonely man, and
that’s the way it goes” asking the question “is there room in there for me? Solidarity
haunts me”. A sad life is no life to share, but they say misery loves company... The bridge builds with some call and response vocals,
building synth strings, and tom rolls. A chorus of eerie vocals bring up the
intensity, creating an ominous beautiful harmony section.
Tip of the Iceberg - (personal favorite) soft acoustic
guitar intro, vocals really cut through the mix, soft and sweet, almost Celtic
woman-esque. “Are you sure we’re there
yet? I have doubts that this cruel world will bring us back alive, so let me go
before you say the words, you’d never know what one question could be worth, I
will be here for better or worse, the time before commitment is just the tip of
the iceberg”. The harmonies reach into
your chest in an attempt to pull back your rib cage and pull at your
heartstrings. A woman in love who is questioning making a big commitment, for
fear of losing everything they’ve worked so hard to build. Electric guitar and
strings float through the airwaves like clouds out of a typewriter airplane. “When
you jump you may not reach the other side”
Use Me (Bill Withers Cover) – Right Back into the groove, they
pay homage to the great Bill Withers, with a band so tight and funky, and a
rhythm section that can truly hold it down, this feels like it could’ve been
their song. Singer’s voice is soulful, sassy, and emotive. Harmonies are the
highlight of this cover, perfectly blended and strong, yet subtle. They slay
through the breakdowns, showing off their musical chops.
Dirty Work – aggressive beat, and dissonant chords with fast
paced lyrics, and warm distorted lead guitar. “This is Dirty work, not a cloud
in the sky” vocals switch around with harmonies, highlighting lyrics in the
verses and chorus. Sweet, powerful moving vocals.
Ooohs, and male / female vocals blended in dark perfection. Like dark chocolate
and sea salt.
I, I, I – fun dance beat, swinging cymbals, bass drops out
as vocals enter the mix. “I am the subject of every conversation, every word is
a freckle of blood boiling under my skin” “What are you going to do with your
life, that is what they ask as they’re twisting the knife, why don’t you let me
do what I like, I , I , I!” A song any artist or musician can relate to. I
think the commonality of choosing to chase a creative career versus say a steady career in sales, or medicine. People live vicariously, and
appreciate musicians for their adventurous spirit, but sometimes lack tact when
questioning the lifestyle that surrounds those kind of choices. Electric guitar lead is impressive and
descending, while still allowing the singer to be the powerhouse and dig into the "I, I, I's" A great progressive pop tune.
The Problem With Us – Another fun start, the band gravitating to surfy beach vibes. Synth and electric guitar shine throughout the breaks
of this song. “The problem with us is, I’m in love with that man, you waited
too long I’m afraid” Describing people who don’t pull the trigger, they take too long to
court, or don’t give you the attention you deserve til someone else starts
picking up the slack. Bass grooves underneath keeping everything flowing and
warm. Like falling asleep next to a campfire on a crisp autumn night.
Zombie (The Cranberries Cover) – The last track on "The Worrier" comes from another adaptation of a classic tune! The singer pulls inspiration for the lead singer of the Cranberries, harnessing her falsetto and vibrato, and they
reconstruct the rhythm of Zombie to create a slightly different feel. The subtle changes in the percussion and bass does just
enough to put their rendition apart from the original. This is a song, similar to Bill Wither's "Use
Me" that would do really well live for this band, and as a perk, is a great finale to an explosive, well
produced album by a seasoned band. “What’s In Your Head”, hopefully it's this album on repeat.
Jared Mancuso reignites rock n' roll with his incredible album "Superdope". Combining high energy party romps, tender 50's surf rock vibes, and throwbacks to blues, and early pop, Superdope easily puts Mancuso in a genre all his own. Set to be released November 15th, you can check out the first single "Roll Over" on Soundcloud.
TRACK BY TRACK
Roll Over – like a Molotov Cocktail thrown into a pile
of fireworks, Superdope gets right in your face with funky, grungy electric
guitar, crunchy riffs and warm arranged backup vocals. “Go on,
roll over now” Explosive energy circulates around a tight, locked in rhythm section. Building throughout the song is the intense Led Zeppelin feel, and Weezer vibes. Electric guitars play in perfect synchronicity with each other. "You can make threats, I'm not the kind of person you can scare". Calm, cool and collected lyrics combat with the vibrant rock beat, like those fleeting heated moments in an argument. Sometimes things go much smoother when you Roll over and give in.
La De Da – a fun, tongue in cheek tune about people who seem to just let themselves
be miserable. People can get hung up in bad relationships, or wanting companionship, when they haven't found how to even make themselves happy. With a jaunty chorus of La de da dee da’s, as if to say they’re
ignoring the things they could do to be living a better life. By the end of the song you might find yourself arm and arm with your best buddy at the bar, Guinness's in hand, and a round of whiskey shots on the way. The F_ck – (personal favorite) Awesome. Catchy, “I dive right in, then I quickly start to
sink” “What the F_ck am I supposed to do?!” This song brings on the hard questions...what am I going to do with my life, should I move
across the country, should I try to find
myself, or should I stay put and keep hitting the pavement? “Ain’t got the words, because this pen’s running
out of ink” The bridge builds in intensity with Ooh’s and crashing drum fills, melodic shredding guitars, harmonies so godly you might have to tie your
shoes to your chair. “It could be I’m not good enough to make it” a refreshing dose of self awareness, Mancuso digs deep to understand what might be holding him back when it comes to commercial success in the music industry. This song, and this entire album exceeds genre boundaries, shows character, and exposes the raw talent, tenacity, and songwriting mastery that comprises Jared Mancuso's sound.
Would You – slows down for a minute “I’ve got these brand
new shoes and I’m walking away from you” “you left your laundry here, come and
get it when I’m not around”… breakups are never easy, someone you used to be so
into is now the one person you hope to avoid at the grocery store. Beach boys vibes, 50’s
surf rock pull you in like a slow crashing wave. The little bit of slap-back echo on Mancuso’s voice sends cool chills into the mix. The harmonized guitar solo paints a vivid image of a dark stormy
beach, with simple drum beats keeping everything centered.“Now would you let it go?” Continually impressed by the focus on songwriting, and keeping it in the forefront. With a band that has the capacity to blow the roof off a warehouse , they know exactly when to hold back and put the song first.
Superdope – The title track of Mancuso’s new project is your next party anthem. Quick-paced lyrics and smooth falsetto. “Put your hands up for the superdope party” Beastie
Boys meets the Black Keys. A winning combination of rock n' roll with a fun hip hop feel. They really
dig their teeth in at the bridge, the groove gets heavy and the lead guitars
scream and wail in perfect harmony. Only to exceed themselves at the last moments with an explosive, edge of your seat ending.
Mayday (Instrumental) – This is not your typical album ballad, this is a high speed car chase on the open freeway at night. Beefy, thick guitars, wild crashing
drums, and what sounds to be piano ripping it like Jerry Lee Lewis playing Great Balls of Fire. Each member taking turns adding to this complex rock
n’roll layer cake that makes it impossible to sit still. Mayday makes your standard rock 4 piece sound like the Trans Siberian Orchestra.
Rest of Our Lives – Vocals styling reminiscent of Weezer, and The
Avett Brothers really allow the lyrics to shine on this track. Sweet harmonies and hot electric guitars go back and
forth to tell a story of a love in the works. “I thought we’d be together for
the rest of our lives” In the age of online dating, and hook up apps, it may seem like an impossible sea of love to navigate. You might have one of the best first dates of your life, only to never hear from that person again. Or the opposite, you may have had a terrible time, only to find that person is now sending you love notes in the mail and showing up at your work. Either way, it's these things a listener can really connect to with Mancuso's music. Songs about the everyday struggles of dating and pursuing love. “…I can’t believe we met last week. I can prove to you
that my love never dies…if only you would take a second date”.
Drive Me Crazy – smooth fuzz guitar, shaker percussion, falsetto vocal
doubling set the vintage, old-time recording feel of this track. Transcending from Modern
rock to earlier styles of rock n’ roll with all the style and flair of Motown
producers back in the 50's. The groove gets deep and muddy like hot fudge. The drum tom and
snare are deep and dark toned. Like the love that dragged you so deep underground that you’ll
never find a clean escape. “You know that you drive me crazy, and I know it’s
all the things you do to me” A toxic, yet working relationship. As artists I
think we all find ourselves in some crazy relationships, ever on the prowl for
our next muse.
The Other Side – bright, fun, upbeat, full of energy; The Other Side is stumbling onto a
beach party, and getting handed cold beers and Austin style street tacos. Gang vocals in the chorus bring out the tenaciousness in Mancuso's voice. “Need a ride to
the other side” “ba da ba” surf vibes meets hard driving classic rock. “if you’re too cool for school, then you’re
really never gonna make it”. I Showing up to a scene “fly as hell” ready to meet
girls, and dance, and see how crazy a night can get. Bring the party over to
the other side (the next morning).
Water – (personal favorite) the closing track to Superdope starts off with
acoustic guitar, vocals similar to Anthony Kiedis, and the warm expressive feel of Neutral Milk
Hotel. Perfectly panned harmonies, and acoustic guitar solo that warms your spirit like
a fresh pot of coffee after a long night. “through the surf and sound, make my
way back home” A nice throwback to this entire album, a work inspired by the
simple effectiveness of early rock n roll bands and recordings, combined with all the party vibes of bands like
The Beach Boys, The Beatles, Black Keys, and Weezer. As the song progresses the ooh La la’s build as the snare rolls back in, claps, and unique piano tones join as it all fades away, like the waves
retracting back to the sea.
11/06/16 - Bourbon & Branch - Philadelphia, PA
- DETAILS 11/17/16 - The Bowery Electric ALBUM RELEASE PARTY - New
York, NY 11/19/16 - Maxwell's on Main - Doylestown, PA
"Innovation, diversity, originality, positivity and love"
These are some of the things Electronic artist Spiros Maus believes in. Born in Athens, Greece and currently residing in London UK, Maus has been perfecting his musicianship and songwriting his entire life. His newest project Armada Named Sound embraces all aspects of electronic music. Maus's low gravelly "Batman" voice is chilling and driving. Blending perfectly with the smooth, varying layers of female vocalists featured on this LP. Innovative, Diverse, Original, Positive, and full of love, Armada Named Sound's music practices what he preaches.
Midnight at Metropolis – The opening track to Electronica LP is driving, chaotic, and utterly enticing. Imagine a
helicopter flying through a thunderstorm. Cinematic, and blood pumping, this track is like a scene from a Mission Impossible movie,
Crush – insane sound effects, think haunted
house at 3am, terrifying like walking on a dimly lit street with shadows surrounding
you. Strong female vocals by Andromeda S, eerie harmonies, pierce the mix, with a tug of war
between good and evil, angel and demonic. Impressive production, simple driving
drum beat with layers of synth and vocal effects
Toxinsane – trippy, dark pop goth party on Halloween
eve, vocals are silky smooth, serenading a vampire as the sun rises, a siren
pulling a sailor out into deep water, a haunting chorus, a back and forth
between the growl of Spiros and powerhouse vocals of Marta Karis. A crazy acid trip. Intricate synth layers top
this devil’s food cake, red velvet crumbling to the floor. “Leave your body, leave your mind,
broken shell, left behind”loving the play on words – you’re just so toxic,so insane “toxinsane”
Life in Lofi – Imagine being a ghost on a
crowded subway train, the lights shining in, the cacophony of chatter and tunnel
noises, the train in motion, but you’re invisible. The
synth-pop wall of sound washes over you as you open up your mind to a new way of
living. The song encourages the listener to
live life now, “have some poison, have a smoke, live inside a screen”
I am - *featured track on Bandcamp* soulful, sweet vocals pierce the dark dirty groove as the singer comes back with his
ragged, Tom waits, Rob Zombie-esque voice. The mood is uplifting, a brand new day
after the most elaborate heist. Driving fast down the highway with a bag of
cash floating in the wind, Victory champagne sprayed across the dashboard
NY – tells the story of a woman who went out on
the town, and danced all night, smoked, took pills, drank too much, as the song
progresses she reveals why she drinks so much, to stop a heartache. Her vices
are her medicine. Hints at this being a recurring situation, “sleeping in my
neighbor’s yard, I was dreaming when the sun came up, well I drank a little
more last night”
Bittersweet – lush harmonies, two voices you
wouldn’t think would fit together that mesh so well “All thrill is to be gone, you spend the night alone. But still you wish you’d
feel it, and bittersweet’s the word” So catchy, the cadence of the chorus will
get you bobbing you head. Think of you're favorite 80’s anthem, Cyndi Lauper, Madonna, Dancy, upbeat,
with dark tones, and expressions of loneliness…the bittersweet feeling of spending a
night alone when you don’t want to.
White Keys and Black Silk - *personal favorite*
harmonies that roll together like raindrops forming a trickle that build into a
beautiful water fall. An arrangement that keeps you guessing, Dream like
wonderment, “Vain in Silence, Make some noise and still you can’t be seen, Know
just why you’re here, Not to be remembered but to Live” ---strong words to live
by. Intricate, eerily beautiful.
Artist: Cloe Wilder
Cloe currently lives in Tampa, Florida. She is an advocate for equality, and mental health awareness who strives to embrace her own imperfections, while comforting listeners with her melancholy honest lyricism. As the late Leonard Cohen once said in his song Anthem, "there is a crack in everything, that's how the light gets in." 
