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Music Reviews

Southern Rockers, Dead Friends 46, Release New Album: ‘Hardcore’

Southern Rockers, Dead Friends 46, are a wild riot of Rock ‘N’ Roll thunder creating music that is both amusing and pleasing to consume. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts of their latest full-length album release, ‘Hardcore’.

Kicking off with a bang with the first track, “The Firm”, the guys of Dead Friends 46 rile up some daunting energy as aggressive Punk guitar playing smashes through the intro and swiftly leads into a dive into a ball of fire by the name of Don Mazda whose vocal style mimics the likes of Judas Priest. The second track, “Rise Up”, can get a crowd of maniacs tossing beer across a venue as the guys of Dead Friends 46 showcase their lyrical prowess with a politically potent spill of how corrupt our Government has come to be. “Whistling in the Dark” is the third track that is a seemingly spiritual ode to regret as lyrics bash living under the rules of society and how much it can destroy your one shot as a human being. The fourth track, “Banned from the Pubs”, is exactly as it states; rowdy, incoherent and balls-to-the-wall as the guys lyrically attempt to flee a frantic scene that they created.

“The Letter” is the fifth track that intentionally sticks it to the man as a blast of instrumental synergy shreds through with ease. The sixth track, “Mass Hysteria”, puts the cherry on top of the madness that has already come memories of the lack of trust in those who have f**ked the guys of Dead Friends 46 in the past are coming back out of the closet to lyrically confront with no remorse. “Blood Cot” is the seventh track that lyrically highlights a lack of self-discipline and control which is destroying the lives of an individual who is immersed within their own self-doubt. The eighth track, “Lady Doom”, is a lyrical shot at a lady who tried to run the guys of Dead Friends 46 for what they’re worth yet was found guilty in hindsight. “Devil and Don” is the ninth track that reeks of lyrically knowing that it is time to throw in the towel on relationships that aren’t going anywhere. The tenth track, “Black Eyeliner (April Harvey), starts off with streamlined instrumentals that leads into a dose of lyrical anger as the guys metaphorically travel through a chapter of sleeping with the devil. Closing out with “Dead Friends”, the guys pour one out for the ones that have come and gone in a classic Punk Rock way.

Mastered with precision by a group of guys who live and die by and with music, ‘Hardcore’ by Dead Friends 46 is an album that can kickstart your new year the right way. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Anti-Flag, Bad Religion and Authority Zero, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Dead Friends 46 on Soundcloud.

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Interviews

Interview: Pepper Gomez aka MyMy Lady G

Wake Up Music Group Founder, Pepper Gomez aka MyMy Lady G, has transcended her known to in turn reach back into her roots to gather the right tools and people to sprout a tree abounding with musical branches of hope, love and peace. I caught up with Pepper Gomez aka MyMy Lady G to discuss the creation of Wake Up Music Group, being an advocate for Human Rights, the music video for “Get On Up!” making it onto MTV and BET, taking care of your people, James Moore of Independent Music Promotions, feeding her loved ones and much more.

Photo Credit: Jacky Amar Photography

I think that 2019 will be the year for Wake Up Music Group. I really feel it in my heart and in particularly due to the recent trajectory of events and successes.

I am so pleasantly enthused and surprised by all of the developments. There has been a lot of them in 2018. The music industry is a very interesting business to be a part of. It is a fickle business in a way, yet I sorta feel that I have to prepare myself for the inevitable “No” that comes along because I have been getting a lot of “Yes”. At my core, I’m sensitive, and when it is not a “Yes”, it doesn’t feel good. Therefore, I have to remind myself that the real goal is to keep putting out great and new music. It’s about working positively with my artists and team and allowing them to create, and that is the real joy that I find in my work. But I do have to say, Matt Warren being #1 on DRT for two weeks is astounding.

It’s insane. Amy (ACRONYM) and I were texting when the music video that she filmed for “Get On Up!” made it on MTV and BET and we were blown away.

It’s insane! I am definitely riding that cloud because I am aware that those clouds don’t come all of the time. But I do have to remind myself that those successes are like the frosting on the base of the cake and the cake is the music. I think that the music is everything. Music is feeling. Music is encouraging. We knew that ‘Music Is My Life’ by Matt Warren was a good disc, but this has definitely surpassed my very modest expectations. It goes back to what you were talking about in a post that you had put on Facebook. I thought to myself, “Man, I gotta start dreaming bigger.”

You do. I perceive that we as individuals do have to burst our own bubbles at times and remind ourselves that we are capable of a lot more than we initially perceive. I think that perceive and/or perception is the most important word in that last sentence. If you aren’t attempting to perceive more than you already know, you will get stuck in your own stagnant rut. What inspired you to dip your toes back into the music industry? What led you to inspirit that creative fire once again?

I have always inwardly thought that I was a musician ever since I was a child, but my brother was the real musician. He is unbelievable. I mean, that guy can shred guitar. It was his thing. I wasn’t really allowed to encroach on that space because that was what my brother did. I would go around the house singing my little songs day by day and for anyone who has ever lived with me, you know you’ve heard me do that! I was told that I was giving the family a headache when I was doing so as a child, so then I would only sing in the shower. I would help my brother, Bruce Gomez, with lyrics at times when he was in bands, and I would always bug him and ask him to let me sing. His friends told me that I should try singing Folk, and that confused me. I did like some Folk songs, but not my idea of what I wanted to sing. You know that old saying about being left with the biggest gift under the tree? Well, I haven’t been left with the biggest gift under our tree, but I have always tried to make the best of it.

Photo Credit: Jacky Amar Photography

Yes, you have to cultivate the gifts under the tree. I perceive that we as human beings have gifts that we subconsciously don’t even open up or explore throughout our lifetimes. I think that one of life’s biggest puzzles is teaching oneself how to actively live without regret.

Absolutely. You have to take some risks. At some point, I would love to create a very Experimental album. Back to my brother, there was one point in which I got very lucky because he needed some Spanish vocals for one of his bands. I went to Jerry Soto’s studio and I sang the Spanish vocals. I don’t even have a copy of that project and don’t even know what happened to that musician who actually had some really good tunes. So, that experience made me think that I enjoyed singing. After that, I was married to Tom O’Callaghan who can play any instrument that he picks up. It is some kind of insane gift of his. I laid down the vocals with him for the Master Plan project that we submitted to Columbia College and before you knew it, it was an Underground College and Radio hit.

From my perspective, you experienced the College Radio world with your own music and the cyclic nature of what Wake Up Music Group is experiencing with Matt Warren is pretty bizarre.

Right! I really like College and Community Radio because they will dare to play stuff that they like and could take a long time to get onto mainstream music.

You can look at it through the metaphoric lens of college kids preparing for the real world and musicians preparing for the world of mainstream on college radio. Wake Up Music Group is in that in-between space right now, and once Wake Up Music Group hits the mainstream, it will be heartwarming to reflect upon the “college” days.

Yeah. I never forget the people who are with me in the beginning of things.

You have to choose not to. At times with working in the music industry, it is hard to remember your roots because you are immersed in tons of stimulus, around new faces and creating new ideas. But you really do have to choose to take care of those who took care of you. Those people carry such a piece of soul within the journey.

Yes. Carry is the word there. Those people have carried others and me when not a lot of other people would have paid attention. I do have to say that my “Welcome Back” into the music industry has been astounding. The people that remember my Pepper Gomez stuff really get me. I kinda feel like the prodigal daughter because I did do my straight gig for so long, yet everyone is happy to see me back at it and I didn’t even know that people remembered or thought about that stuff that I did literally decades ago. It’s a beautiful thing to touch people like that. I saw people talking about Master Plan in South America online and that would really cheer me up. Back in the day, we didn’t have opportunity readily available for distributions. The record labels were smaller. It is a whole new ball game now.

Photo Credit: Jacky Amar Photography

Right. There are so many resources and tools readily available to all of us each and every day and it is our choice to maximize the tools at hand for our benefit or not. We are literally carrying around a mini computer around the clock. I don’t know about you but my phone is always with me, and almost always in my hand. We are able to create whatever we desire at any time of day at any place around the world. How could that not fire you up? You didn’t have that in the past.

It is incredible. It’s almost like there is a whole generation who doesn’t know what was going on back at that time. People are now able to experience a new way to consume music. Back in the Master Plan days, it was just a street thing and lifestyle that you were just consumed with whether you listened to the music or not. You couldn’t go into 7-11 and not hear the various mixes by the DJ’s because that is how prominent the House sound was back in the day. We would go out dancing every Friday and Saturday night. It was around the time around the heels of the New Wave time so that music blended into my work because you are always a reflection of what you are experiencing. I thought that creating a Record Label would be great because there are so many cool genres including Flamenco which is one of my loves. I will very cautiously say that I sang Flamenco because I like to be respectful of exactly where I’m at, yet at the same time, I did bring some live singing to our Flamencos troupe. Every piece of the puzzle is important, but I do give great respect to the people who I consider to be the true Flamencos.

Yes. There are those who spearhead genres and movements who have earned the respect. You have to choose to expand your own craft through observing their skill. You have to be respectful of the wolves in the pack. If you think that you’re the only wolf, you’ll never make it in the music industry. It’s all about the relationships that you have developed.

Absolutely. Not only the ones who came before you, yet also those who are absolutely the best at their craft. Some of music is a personal thing, but when you have heard something that is the best, you will never forget it.

Yes. Do you feel that you have stumbled upon newfound clarity in your purpose through being a part of the music industry again?

Yes. I really wanted to give some support to some of the artists that are practicing. I love giving all of the support possible to my artists. I am looking for the next act because Matt is zipping along and actually starting to work on his next disc. I have spoken to so many different artists who have asked me what they would be able to say and what wouldn’t fly which is crazy to me. I want my artists to be able to express themselves exactly as themselves. I am here to support you. I am not here to censor. I am not here to make sure that an artist gives me something that is commercial. I believe that when you put out something that is really pure and from the heart, it is going to touch people whether it hits the mainstream or not. I believe that we have to keep evolving for the better and that each musician is going to bring something different to the table. In regards to me creating my own music again as Pepper Gomez, I am going to put together my own station for sure and that is just going to be all of my old stuff. You would be surprised how many people have asked me when I was going to do my own thing, but my own thing will be so massive. I tend to not do anything small.

I don’t either, ever. It’s a mentality. I have a massive mentality. I couldn’t just put my eggs into one basket, it’s impossible. There are too many baskets in this world to dabble in.

It’s the Virgo thing. When I do something, I want to do it and I want to do it all in. It’s just the way we are. It feels good to do it that way to me. So when I do my own project, it’ll be a tribute album with remakes, my new House stuff, it’ll be my Experimental work and I would love to do something with my two sons, Sharkeyes and Baby Tac – the ET Boys. They are just putting out some beautiful and great stuff that I just love. I love their Hip-Hop. I love Artist Development although it is a really hard thing. As I am searching for the next group or artist, I know that I would love to take someone or a group of people and just move them right along. I believe that I can run a Record Label now, I didn’t believe it in the beginning.

You learn along the way. Consistency, asking questions, developing relationships and being humble have been the keys to any “success” that I have experienced. Being vulnerable and realizing that you don’t know it all in the music industry is so important.

Yes. It has been amazing how generous everyone has been ever since I have been back in the music industry.

The music industry is not a cruel place. I think that many do make it out to be a cruel place, yet those who do make it out to be cruel just aren’t pushing hard enough and/or aren’t taking the time to develop the right relationships. Those people are dealing with their own self-imposed distraction by carrying that belief. The music industry is a very open, welcoming and creative place if you want it to be.

Yes. I am blown away by the welcome. I am blown away by the support. My Promo Team like James Moore of Independent Music Promotions, Stevie B and Andrew Kitchen; they have taken me under their wing and educated the life out of me. I just love that. Having people that you can turn to to ask questions is an absolute blessing.

For sure. I will say that I have personally learned through experience that there are indeed those hardened souls in the music industry who intentionally won’t support you or aid in finding answers because they are insecure in their work and feel as though giving another an “advantage” would put them a step behind. It’s not like that. Let’s get two steps ahead, together.

Totally. That is what has been ultra encouraging to me. I am thrilled when people tell me that I am going to be a part of the music industry for a long time. I absolutely love music. If I could play music all day and carry along with the work that I have to do, I am happy. It is exciting to see what people can produce and what people can create in the studio. The experience in the studio is its own world where things can blossom within the music that you didn’t expect.

But where do they blossom from? The people. Not to toot your horn, one key component that I have recognized through working with you is that you invest in people. I think that it is so important to invest in others. You aren’t going to make it without a team in the music industry.

I personally believe that your path will be made known to you but you really have to pay attention and be alert. I feel that I have been blessed and lucky with people who have crossed my path and have taken the time to respond to me.

Photo Credit: Jacky Amar Photography

Dots have connected for you through simply choose to walk your path in the music industry once again. For instance, I perceive that you connecting with James Moore of Independent Music Promotions has opened so many doors for you without you even trying to open those doors. James does that. I have worked with James for years and he is one of the most consistent, driven, knowledgeable, kind and reliable people to work with. The opportunities that he creates for others through simply connecting people never ceases to amaze me.

Yes. As you know, I absolutely adore James. He took a chance on the very first disc that I pressed which was very novel with mixing House with Flamenco. James heard something within the release that just got Wake Up Music Group on the map. Otherwise, you may have never heard of that.

True. Tell us about some pieces of yourself that you are proud of beyond the music.

Music is my life, but at the core of my being is serving others. It is one of the things that fulfills me most. I enjoy feeding others. Whether I am cooking or bringing people someplace awesome to eat, I really enjoy feeding people. I believe that we are what we eat and we are kinda in dire straights actually because we have poisoned up the earth so bad.

We have. The poison is leading toward awareness though. I don’t mean to be pessimistic, but the rampant poison throughout the food industry is becoming so extreme that it is affecting individuals livelihood and wellbeing. The choice to consciously choose what we are putting on our fork and our plate creates the experience that is our lives.

Yes. I am going to pray that we take the negatives and turn them into positives. I like science a lot too and I hope that science finds some cures for the damages that we have done, but we have lived in a very selfish manner that I think ends up stifling everything. It’s not working for the long or short-term plan. I do love feeding people, but I am also heavy into physical fitness. I don’t believe that you can be happy if you aren’t feeling strong and healthy. I like going to the gym. I like my pole classes. I like anything that makes me feel strong. I do like to challenge myself. I mean, how many people at the age of 60-years-old do you know would have started pole?

That is amazing though, and you are subconsciously setting an example for others by having started pole dancing classes at your age. Life could just be beginning at 60-years-old. You never know what any other individual has experienced throughout their lifetime at any age, young or older, unless you ask. It could be a time of rebirth and renewal.

Yes! I am a solid intermediate now!

I love it. From my perception, dance and movement releases the mind and leads an individual into a state of flow.

Absolutely. I have been a dancer throughout my entire life and to me, pole has been like another branch of dance. I have been fighting to reduce violence throughout my whole life back in my professional years and it is a big issue to me. I believe that children have rights too. I am a huge human rights advocate and activist and in particularly for kids. If we raise kids with seeds of violence in our own homes under the disguise of discipline, what do we expect in the real world? The microcosm is always going to reflect the macrocosm, and yet in the final analysis we are all launched with baggage so we must use music, art, dance, science and/or anything that you can to heal yourself and reach a place where we can love. It sounds really cliche, but love is the saving force in the world.

Yes. Love is the most important force. It is so simple but we don’t get it. We are so bombarded with our own self-imposed pressures that we subconsciously neglect love. Love can fuel your creative fire and artistry.

Yes. I think that in the arts it is extra hard because you are interfacing with so many different individuals. It takes a lot of time and energy to find people who truly understand that the artist doesn’t relate to the world the same way that someone who has chosen not to embody that may have. Being an artist is so brave. It is so difficult to the point in which many artists need a day job while also creating art and on some days I think that is totally criminal because we should have the supports available so that the people that are artists can simply be the artists that they want to be and are.

A day job blocks creativity. I perceive that you do have to earn that place in which you are able to create art daily for a living and be art. You have to maintain it too. Where do you see Wake Up Music Group five years from now? What direction do you intend to take the Record Label in?

Okay. I only want to do and create music that I like. I started Wake Up Music Group with the intention that I was only going to work with endangered music, but I have come to the realization that endangered music is any music that I might like. I don’t want to close the doors on any particular genre. In a dream scenario, I would have a lovely library of productions from a lot of genres. Being an artist is a complex thing, and I want to work with people that are really artists. People that are actually composing, writing and making music is how I view the artists. It’s hard to do artist development with someone who thinks they know it all, you know? There is a certain way of thinking. It comes out of an artist naturally. Connecting people through the music is so important to me. I like to make music that makes people feel, dance and move. I think that movement is life and we need it so desperately. That’s not to say that we won’t put out songs that are deep, slow and sad because that is part of life too, but what I think Wake Up Music Group naturally gravitates toward is the music that helps me get through my day and that is Dance Music to me.

The more stagnant the body is, the more stagnant the mind becomes. Movement is life.

I can speak from this perspective. Many people think that getting old means that it is time to slow down and retire, but I think that the model is the exact opposite. You need to get busy, stay busy and stay active. It gives you the charge and energy to handle anything that life throws at you and as you may know, life can throw anything at you at any time.

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Music Reviews

Chris Lastovicka Set to Release New Remix Album: ‘Fortune Has Turned’ (Remixed)

New York Musician, Chris Lastovicka, has confronted deep and dark wounds that had him living under the daunting spell of sweet and tender pain to make that known throughout the first two single releases, “The 7th Chapter of Job” (Remixed) and “The End of Tyranny” (Remixed). Stemming from the upcoming 2019 full-length remix album, Chris Lastovicka has given listeners a glimpse into the fog that he had been living through  in attempts to enlighten others through music and remind them that there is hope if you keep fighting and ensure to remain aware of the bigger picture along the way. Here’s our thoughts of the first two tracks.

Kicking off with “The 7th Chapter of Job” (Remixed), Chris transforms tragedy into an opportunity for revived clarity as opening strings enamor listeners with a slow and steady walk into a world of fear, abandonment and anxiety that he has felt immersed within as haunting Opera vocals leave one in admiration of the slow burn that Chris had been encountering within. The second track, “The End of Tyranny” (Remixed), mimics the theatrical style of Dream Theater as the slowly rising piano hints at exposure to oneself and all of the pain that is beginning to come to light which Chris continues to battle with and overcome in due time.

Chris has used his artistry as a space to explore and transcend inner and outer ailments that have been hindering him from living out his fullest potential. Set a reminder for the April 12th, 2019 release of the full-length remix album, ‘Fortune Has Turned’ (Remixed), yet in the meantime, if you’re a fan of fellow musicians and composers such as The Future Sound of London, Goldmund and How to Destroy Angels, keep an eye on the ride ahead for Chris Lastovicka on Soundcloud.

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New York Musician, Gideon King & City Blog, Releases New Album: ‘Upscale Madhouse’

New York Musician, Gideon King & City Blog, is beginning to make a name for himself and his recent album release, ‘Upscale Madhouse’, is a deep dive into darkness that is pragmatic and creatively approached with the intent to heal. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Going Straight to Hell”, Gideon King brings forth an atmospheric dose of instrumentals that match the lyrical intent to reach a place of acceptance while righting the wrongs that he has carried around for far too long. The second and title track, “Upscale Madhouse”, slows it down to a whisper which leads into the manic thoughts that are spinning through the mind of his lover as he attempts to beg for another shot at love. “Broken and Beautiful” is the third track that begins with the feeling of a song by John Legend in his ‘Get Lifted’ days as Gideon King lyrically yearns to find clarity within an experience that has been heavy on the heart and soul. The fourth track, “Fake it on Facebook”, is exactly as it states as lyrics that call out the commonalities of the modern-way of being and digital world enlighten the minds of listeners who are hooked on a life of smoke and mirrors.

The sixth track, “Gun to My Head”, slows it down into a soft guitar opening that carries out the hefty emotions and feelings that Gideon has encountered which leads to a lyrical confession of immense pain that has been trickling down his spine. “For Our Own Sake” is the seventh track that opens with a mesmerizing piano that leads into pristine vocals by Elliot Skinner and Grace Weber that ignite energy within listeners who have deep appreciation for the simple luxuries of life. The eighth track, “So Evolved”, purposely contradicts itself to lyrically come to the realization that it’s been a cold relational journey and road that Gideon has been traveling down. “God I’m so Alone” is the ninth track that lyrically speaks of discomfort after having to remove oneself from a stagnant situation that no longer serves positive growth. Closing out with “Look Ma No Hands”, the thoughts that spin through Gideon’s mind open the track to stir up the listener right before the short downfall into lost hope.

Listen to ‘Upscale Madhouse’ in full on Spotify now. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Widespread Panic and Government Mule, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Gideon King & City Blog on Soundcloud.

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Music Reviews

Brooklyn Rocker, Lord Sonny the Unifier, Set to Release New Album: “Final Notice!”

Brooklyn Rocker, Lord Sonny the Unifier, may be the new kid on the block, but his upcoming full-length release, “Final Notice!”, is set to be dynamically rich way to introduce himself to the world of music and beyond. Having released his first single from the album, “Right in Your I”, Lord Sonny the Unifier refuses to be confined to societies ways and sticks it to the man and those who treat others poorly due to their own insecurities unabashedly throughout the track.

Incorporating the sound of the late 1970’s when the world of Rock ‘N’ Roll was full of human beings who refused to be controlled, the rebellious edge in which Lord Sonny the Unifier approaches his artistry is refreshing to independent thinkers. Through tying in instrumentals that don’t overpower the message and intent of the lyrical trajectory, Lord Sonny the Unifier is ahead of the game and understands that his future is in his hands.

We live in a world full of billions of human beings who are actively living out their own individual lives that have nothing to do with you unless you choose to personalize it. Lord Sonny the Unifier is a newcomer to the music scene that is all about equality and ensuring that those who are treating others well get the same treatment in return. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as The Clash, Dead Kennedys and Queens of the Stone Age, then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for Lord Sonny the Unifier on Bandcamp.

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Music Reviews

Jazz Collaboration, The Pearcy/Gratzmiller Jazz Quintet, Release Debut Album: ‘Over The Edge’

Jazz Collaboration, The Pearcy/Gratzmiller Jazz Quintet, incorporate the traditional components of instrumentals with electrifying modern-day technical elements throughout their debut album release, ‘Over The Edge’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Beantown Bahp”, the group mimic’s the intro of a Billy Joel song back in his ‘Streetlife Serenade’ days as the trumpets and horns adorn listeners with an uplifting groove that serves to soothe any ill mood. The second track, “Poor Man’s Doctor”, begins with a tranquil pour of instrumental enchantment that floats seamlessly on a musical stream of light. “Blues 88” is the third track that is perfect for a slow dance with a lover as the guys blend moody instrumental flair with mystery while the piano trickles its way into the soul. The fourth track, “Over the Edge” picks up the pace and feels like a fast walk through a frantic day in New York City as the group of gentlemen give birth to a sound that will grab the attention of members of both the young and old generation.

“Yellow Mood” is the fifth track that can be placed into the opening of a theatrical act to enhance the intimacy of the experience as The Pearcy/Gratzmiller Jazz Quintet overcome sorrow through expression and their artistry. The sixth track, “Something About the Moon” slowly eases the minds of listeners as the group create the feelings of wonder and awe with their instrumentals which is pleasing to the vulnerable heart. “The Defector” is the seventh track and album highlight that is tasteful and easy to digest with a glass of bourbon on the rocks in any bar setting. The ninth track, “Pieces of Mind”, is full of sunshine as the Boston gentlemen stroll through through a vibrant flower field and maximize their instrumental prowess to showcase the dynamic work that they are capable of producing. Closing out with “Feelings of Summer”, The Pearcy/Gratzmiller Jazz Quintet reminiscence upon days of warmth over a fun blast of saxophone and trumpet in a style that is abounding with creativity.

Crafted with care and produced with minuscule detail in mind, ‘Over The Edge’ is the perfect album to add to your holiday playlist. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Reel Big Fish and Weather Report, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for The Pearcy/Gratzmiller Jazz Quintet on Soundcloud.

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Prestigious Composer, Patrick Grant, Releases ‘FIELDS AMAZE and other sTRANGE music’ 20th Anniversary Edition

Prestigious Composer and Musician, Patrick Grant, has reason to celebrate the 20th Anniversary Edition release of his acclaimed full-length album, ‘FIELDS AMAZE and other sTRANGE music’. Having curated a work of musical art that grabs listeners by the hand for a welcomingly chaotic journey into a state of flow, Patrick musically makes contact with the previously unknown throughout ‘FIELDS AMAZE and other sTRANGE music’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Keeping Still”, Patrick begins with an oxymoron that glides into the swift driving force of instrumentals that create a multisensory experience for the listener with cleverly arranged compositions serving as the golden ticket. The second track, “Fields Amaze”, jolts listeners into a tornado of wonder as Patrick expands his mind to create instrumental manic highs and lows that mimic the spontaneous patterned activity in the neural circuits of a creative individual. “A Visible Track of Turbulence I” is the third track that softly begins with a serene dose of instrumental tranquility which strolls into a quirky output of welcomingly overzealous energy that influences chromatic flights of thought within a dreamer. The fourth track, “Everything Distinct: Everything the Same”, instrumentally twists and turns through a darkened hallway abounding with past memories jumping at your core as Patrick waxes and wanes through the dark while reaching for the light that he knows is just beyond what he can currently see.

“A Visible Track of Turbulence II” is the fifth track that instantly gets a hold on a wicked mind and leads listeners into confrontation with the sublime as Patrick hits every bump along a tattered road to inflict the feeling of pain and fear which are all intricate parts of the human experience. The sixth track, “Imaginary Horror Film, Pt. 1”, drags listeners through a field of agony to in time come out purified as instrumentals hit high peaks just as fast as they fall. “The Weights of Numbers” is the seventh track and album highlight that mimics the instrumental prowess of Genesis in their ‘Abacab’ days as Patrick’s work morphs into a state of Progressive Rock which is reflective of the wide range of capabilities and techniques that he has cultivated through experience as musician. The eighth track, “Imaginary Horror Film, Pt. 2”, feels like the opening of a 1970’s Horror Movie as musical expression of the crepuscular thoughts that stir through Patrick’s charmingly bizarre mind gifts listeners with a chance to tune out of their present reality and take a ride into an immersive tunnel of kaleidoscopic awe. Closing out with “If One Should Happen to Fall”, Patrick closes with a introspective glance into a mixture of childlike and wizened thoughts that tend to occupy the brains of those who bend societies rules and branch away from commonalities.

Patrick Grant has worn a variety of creative hats throughout his seasoned lifetime, and it is evident that the world has been his oyster throughout his time in the music industry. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Creation of Sunlight and Elderberry Jak, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Patrick Grant on Bandcamp.

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Interviews

Interview: Beyond Unbroken

LA Rockers, Beyond Unbroken, are a group of rebellious minds that are twisting and turning through their life experiences to lay all of their pain on the line throughout their artistry. I caught up with Vocalist/Bassist, Daimen Horrell, to discuss ‘Don’t Wake The Dead’, the importance of patience, staying creative while on the road and more.

Congrats on the success of ‘Don’t Wake The Dead’. Tell us about the creative and recording process. Did you expect the album to turn out how it did?

Thank you very much. The creative process for that record was very different and adventurous. At the time we were essentially a combination of two different families that didn’t know each other ,and seeing if we could write music together. All of us experienced in our own ways ,but we had no idea who we were as a band. Let alone what we would sound like. I knew personally though that it was gonna be great because we all just had a natural chemistry. It was really strange walking up to these two strangers, and after an hour of hanging out feeling like we knew each other for years. That said it came out great only a few things I’d change ,but that’s just me being a perfectionist.

If you could sit down with your younger self and give him one small dose of advice, what would you say to him?

I think for me it would just be to work on your patience.

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I love social media I think if used right it’s the perfect tool for an artist. Part of me does miss the mystery of not knowing anything about artist other than their art. That being said though I’m a huge attention whore so it’s awesome.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

My biggest pride and joy is my son. I have a 9-year-old, and he’s just my whole world.

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

For me it’s all about just keeping busy and staying creative. Of course there’s parties and fun times, but I always find staying creative is really the best thing. I love to draw, write songs on my iPhone, write screenplays for movies, anything to just keep my mind going.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

We love and appreciate all of you. Every single one of you makes it all worth it.

Beyond Unbroken Social Links:

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Interviews

Interview: Justin Symbol

NYC Shock Rapper/Artist, Justin Symbol, is an enigma that is difficult to find out which is exactly the way that he likes being presented to the world. I caught up with Justin to discuss ‘Symbol Season Mixtape, Vol. 1’, the importance of practicing self care, upcoming mini tour, “Star Daddy” and more.

Congrats on the release of ‘Symbol Season Mixtape, Vol. 1’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

With ‘Symbol Season’ I embraced my hip hop alter ego “Star Daddy”. It was about letting go of preconceptions and just having fun! I learned to trust my producer and do things I was afraid to do. One of these moments resulted in the most well known song, “Goldi”.

If you could sit down with your younger self and give him one small dose of advice, what would you say to him?

Practice self care and connect with others. Life doesn’t have to be a lonely race to the top of the trash heap of our society. Success means nothing if you’re not present and open to being able to enjoy it.

Showcasing the human in you, what is a challenging thought that you recently had and were able to overcome over time?

Every day is that struggle. The voice in my head saying “You’re nothing. Die.” I’ve wanted to give in to that, but then I keep fighting. I had some people close to me die lately and it became an affirmation of life. Like, these people believed in me. They gave into that voice, but I can be the example to others that they don’t have to! There is an amazing world out there if you’re open to seeing it.

What is your perception on the digital world that we live in and social media culture?

I think it obviously has the potential to be quite toxic but it’s also got great possibilities. Some real confidence and empowerment has blossomed. Also you have a lot of divisive “movements” which I question if they are even real or a scheme to tear people apart. All this stuff pitting us against each other, it’s not even worth focusing on. I can only do so much before I tune out. I always try to remember that perception is reality. Nothing can replace a real one on one human connection.

No career path or amount of followers negates the fact that you are a human being that has feelings. Tell us about some parts of you beyond being a musician that you take pride in.

I have 5 years sober and have been privileged to maybe lead others toward that life style or at least show them that you can be sober and not super boring! I am also proud of my sexuality, and it seems to empower other people. I don’t put labels on myself but I exist outside the mainstream and I know that it can become a beacon to others who feel the same way. Life is too short to live in shame. I often forget how many people still do!

Photo Credit: Kamollio

As you are exposed to tons of stimulus, how do you proactively take care of your mental and emotional health when you’re out on the road?

I need to do way better in this area. For me, tour becomes this high that then saps my endorphins and I can become quite negative afterwards. I need to be better about making meetings, praying and meditating on the road. Exercise helps too! Toxic people are the worst because they can really drag you down and isolate you. Getting rid of those from my band was a big step in the right direction!

Reflect back to day one in the studio for ‘Symbol Season Mixtape, Vol. 1’, would you have thought that the mixtape would have turned out the way it did?

I didn’t really know what to think. We started with the song “Artistic Shit” and from the beginning I knew we were not going to create a record like anything I was previously known for. The goal was to be totally free and allow ourselves to be upbeat, fun and positive with the music. Sometimes things got very silly. I’ve never laughed so much while making an album! I never thought we’d get so productive that we’d end up having 21 songs!

Speaking of touring, any current or upcoming tour/show plans that you can fill us in about?

There will be a Justin Symbol West Coast mini tour in late Feb. I am bringing back the old school Justin Symbol vibe in a big way with a new live band of talented people. I’m very excited to reconnect with that part of myself, which I know the fans have been eager for.

Last but certainly not least, any closing messages for your fans?!

Stay tuned! 2019 will be a great year for Symbol!

Justin Symbol Social Links:

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Categories
Music Reviews

California Psych Rockers, Crooked Flower, Release New Album: ‘Into the Light’

California Psych Rockers, Crooked Flower, are awakening energy within and bringing forward a world of kaleidoscopic light throughout their latest full-length album release, ‘Into the Light’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Dancing”, Angelina Dang’s vocals swiftly creep into the hearts of listeners as a simple lyrical journey speaking of swinging the night away mimics the likes of Eurythmics in their 1983 ‘Touch’ days. The second track, “Search Warrant”, slows it down to lyrically speak of tragedy that may be a therapeutic ode to closure when it comes to a personal experience or a dose of fiction that keeps listeners minds’ stimulated over Indie instrumentals that are smooth and welcoming to the spirit. “Freedom” is the third track that blasts right off with an edge as the California Rockers bring forward their mutual yearning for peace over toned-down instrumentals that match the lyrical intention of reaching a place of clarity. The fourth track, “Let You Go”, begins with a Groove inspired instrumental that gently takes listeners by the hand toward release of what no longer aligns with the life that the members of Crooked Flower are beginning to create.

“Around and Around” is the fifth track that begins by instrumentally mimicking the likes of Yes and swiftly shifts into a place of acceptance when it comes to no longer giving one’s energy and time to a person, place or thing that doesn’t serve the positive growth of oneself. The sixth track, “10 Million Seeds”, lyrically takes listeners through a psychedelic tunnel of thought as the members of Crooked Flower recognize their small place in this massive world which is one of the most liberating inner revelations to discover. “Falling” is the seventh track that begins with the instrumental feel of a song by Santana and then grooves into a lyrical deep dive into the life of a soul sporting rose-colored glasses that are blocking their reality and truth. Closing out with “Own World”, Crooked Flower subconsciously inspires listeners to create their own rules and choose not to succumb to society’s common ways of being.

It is evident and felt that Crooked Flower is a band that creates music for one of the right reasons; for the love of making music. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as No Doubt, Ramones and The Jam, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Crooked Flower on Soundcloud.

Crooked Flower Social Links:

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