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Interviews

Interview: CloZee

Toulouse Electronic Musician, CloZee, has surrendered to her inner calling through continuously revealing layers of her kaleidoscopic musical vision through albums that move you such as her latest, ‘Evasion’. I caught up with Chloe to discuss her emotional sensitivity laced within her artistry, the importance of being honest and generous, intimate recording processes, upcoming Spring 2019 tour and more.

Congrats on the success of ‘Evasion’. I perceive that your music and delivery is just as much of an inner journey as it is outer. Tell us about what you learned about yourself throughout the creative and recording process. 

Thank you! I particularly learnt that I feel better about my music and in my life in general when I follow my current mood and feelings when a compose a song. I can’t force myself to try to create  bangers when I’m feeling emotionally sensitive. This is probably my most emotive and intimate work so far because of that. 

What is the most bizarre everyday object that you have used as an instrument throughout your time as a musician?

My set of keys. Love to add those « clings » sounds to the beat.

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

I think just confidence, in general. Still working on it though. It’s not totally there, but that’s what makes me work harder everyday so I don’t know if I want to totally overcome that feeling.

Photo Credit: Eric Allen

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

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the digital world and the social medias. I hate a lot of things about it, but I currently can’t live without if I want to spread my music and do what I love. I also met awesome people thanks to that. I’m all about it when it’s used in a smart way. 

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. 

Being honest and generous.

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?

Good sleep (whenever it’s possible), good food, a good team of people and friends, and awesome fans are the key to stay excited and healthy on tour. 🙂 

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us your perception of the difference between crowds in the states vs. crowds overseas?

Every crowd is different depending on the countries and type of events. I’ve experienced awesome crowds everywhere, and I had bad experiences too haha. I guess the only thing is that outside of America or Australia, my type of music isn’t very popular or known, so I never know how it will accepted and appreciated, because the scenes are very different. But this is also what makes my life exciting. 

Get tickets HERE to The CloZee Spring Tour 2019

If any of our readers have never been to France, what are some of your favorite urban exploring spots that you recommend to check out?

Toulouse, Bayonne, Lyon, Montpellier

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

I love you all, thank you for being here. I hope you’ll like the future music I’m working on!

CloZee Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Website

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Music Reviews

Houston Ambient Artist, Versal, Releases New EP – ‘Self-Titled’

Houston Ambient Artist, Versal, comes blazing out of the gates with his surprisingly first musical release, ‘Self-Titled. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Eternal”, Versal opens with feelings of bliss as the tranquility stemming from the piano opens a new window of peace in which listeners are able to retreat into. The second track, “Flamenco en Culebra”, is full of global influence and meticulous care when it comes to the production style as Versal explores ancient realms of thought that are strung together through the art-form of music. “Dawn” is the third track that slows it down and leads listeners into a pool of wonder as instrumentals that shed light on the wonders of the natural world unfurl.

The fourth track, “Carrousel”, creates the feeling of adolescence as listeners are subconsciously inspired to dig into their core as Versal’s instrumentals elevate thoughts beyond the shore. “All Together” is the fifth track that sounds akin to a track from the Finding Nemo Soundtrack as Versal explores realms beyond Planet Earth. Closing out with “El Camino a Montserrat”, Versal creates the musical feeling of a walk in the park and the release of stress that leads listeners beyond the dark.

Creating music from the heart with the intent of spreading the feelings of glee that stem from tranquility, Versal overcomes the ego and pours forward from the soul throughout ‘Self-Titled. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Dido, Bonobo and Thomas Newman, then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for Versal on Soundcloud.

Versal Social Links:

Facebook • YouTube

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Music Reviews

Chicago Electronic Musician, Acidic Base, Releases New Album – ‘Purple Skies’

Chicago Electronic Musician and Mastermind, Acidic Base, has cooked up some new Electronic heat that proves that it is never too early or too late to follow your dreams. The notably 12-year-old go-getter is far ahead of his time artistically, spirituality and intellectually throughout his debut release, ‘Purple Skies’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Purple Skies”, Acidic Base trickles in by entrancing listeners with an atmospheric journey into a colorful world with a waxing and waning entry into a portal of his youthful mind that is set on the stars in the most grounded and intentional way. The second track, “Halcyon”, begins with a calming reflective dose of Trip-Hop that flows seamlessly as Acidic Base plays with different synthesizer techniques that astounds the listener who keeps his chronological age in mind. “Chernobyl” is the third track that begins with a mellow groove that ignites the senses and leads listeners into a peaceful state as 8 minutes of minimal expression is the exact right amount of flow. The fourth track, “Blurred”, begins with the feel of an Adventure Club track and travels through an EDM dose of feeling that is fluid and mastered with precision. “Omnidirectional Hyperjet” is the fifth track that blasts off slowly into one of the most impressive Trance tracks that I have heard since the hard-hitting days of The Prodigy and Tricky in the early 90’s. The sixth track, “Mountain Face”, would fit perfectly into an action-packed video game as Acidic Base travels through an escalating beat that begins to hit harder and elevate in expression until the last second. Closing out with “Borealis”, Acidic Base slows it down with a fun and upbeat tone that showcases the vibrancy and aliveness that he is experiencing within his youth.

Balancing the tedious efforts that come with being an 8th grader with the expertise of a seasoned musician at the ripe age of 12-years-old, Acidic Base is a project by Chicago’s Siddharth Goswami that isn’t going to fold. Picturing Siddharth Goswami looking at his parents asking them to provide the tools so he can learn how to make music gives chills to the enlightened and conscious listener. If you’re a fan of fellow artists such as Adventure Club, Suicide Sheep Remixes on YouTube and Tiesto, then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for Acidic Base on Soundcloud.

Acidic Base Social Links:

Facebook • Website • Twitter

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Music Reviews

Detroit Rapper, Mack Tr3, Releases New Single – “Dopeman Dream$”

Detroit Rapper, Mack Tr3, makes your speakers bump throughout the release of his new single, “Dopeman Dream$”, which is accompanied by a music video that showcases that he has his sight set on his prize. Delivering the goods just as they are and never fronting about his scars through his artistry, Mack Tr3 may be new to the game in some ways, yet he has been spittin’ since the days of his youth and it’s time from his talent to be recognized beyond the booth.

Filmed with the nitty-gritty feel and appeal of the reality and human experience of those who are putting in the time in the studio while balancing the blue-collar work on the side, Mack Tr3 shines in a way that is both revealing and reassuring to those independent musicians who are following in his footsteps throughout the music video for “Dopeman Dream$”.

Embodying the guts, grind and glory of the 313 while on the grind, Mack Tr3 is steady making the necessary moves to live out his dreams and showcase his talent to a wider audience that continues to grow. Mack Tr3 is an individual with heart who is developing a signature style of wit and wisdom that challenges listeners to challenge their own manner of thinking before hoes, parties and drinking. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Young Dolph, 21 Savage with the old-school twist of Chamillionaire and Paul Wall, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Mack Tr3 on YouTube.

Mack Tr3 Social Links:

Instagram • YouTube • Twitter

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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:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

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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:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify

Categories
Music Reviews

Rising Texas Rapper, J’Moris, Releases New EP: ‘Extra’

Rising Texas Rapper, J’Moris, is making major plays in the game and we’re delighted to see him bring the wild thoughts that cross his mind to life throughout his latest EP, ‘Extra. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first and title track, “Extra”, crisp production walks listeners into a hypnotic beat as J’Moris showcases qualities of a seasoned vet right off bat with lyrical reminders of the hustle days when his vision was set on the free lunch line rather than the stars. The second track, “Misbehave”, slows it down into a mixture of 90’s R&B and 2000 Hip-Hop as J’Moris candidly puts his sexual urges and fantasies on blast over a beat that incorporates a soft piano so fluidly that it leads listeners into a state of trance. “Not At All” is the third track in which J’Moris takes his fans through the days of his childhood when he had nothing but crumbs on his plate yet switches it up to the motivation that he has cultivated within which has served to his burgeoning lifestyle and shifting experiences. Closing out with “Speed Boat”, J’Moris lyrically puts it all on the line and twists his intention to take no prisoners throughout each bar while tip-top production takes the track to a level that wouldn’t necessarily be expected from an unsigned artist.

Through his ability to get down to the nitty-gritty, J’Moris spits with no pity and 2019 is his time to shine. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Big K.R.I.T, Jadakiss and Meek Mill, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for J’Moris on Spotify.

J’Moris Social Links:

Facebook • Soundcloud • Twitter

 

Categories
Music Reviews

UK Songstress, LeeSun, Releases New Album: ‘Singing You This Song’

UK Songstress, LeeSun, emits an elegance throughout her artistry that is captivating to both the aching and alive soul. Having released her latest album, ‘Singing You This Song’, LeeSun is vulnerable in the most precious and enlightening way. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Wishing”, LeeSun softly strokes the aching cells of listeners going through heartbreak as she lyrically processes her heartache with the recognition of her endless yearning to connect with another that she deeply loves. The second track, “My Life”, abruptly showcases the manic highs and lows that stem from heartache as an instrumental and vocal element that mimics Lily Allen captures the spirit of a wandering mind and soul. “Mother Dear” is the third track that is beautifully composed and arranged to showcase the pain that LeeSun has carried within herself from experiences in her childhood that are difficult to let go of and process. The fourth track, “Dry Your Tears”, lyrically reassures listeners that newfound strength is on the way although at times experiences can feel so heavy that it feels as though the end of the world is impeding when in all reality, the end of a world that one once lived in is simply coming to a close.

“Want To Be” is the fifth track that is abounding with vulnerability as LeeSun has lyrically come out on the other side of processing and is present and grounded in her current reality which is the realization that her heart is connected to her twin flame for life. The sixth track, “The Week You Loved Me”, is titled with charm as LeeSun slowly reminisces about the seven days that love felt so alive while cunningly still keeping the fact that it was fleeting alive in the back of her mind. “This IS the Way” is the seventh track that lyrically pours forward from the soul as LeeSun is unsure as to where the next chapter with another will lead. The eighth track, “It Is What It Is”, feels like a load of bricks upon the listeners chest as LeeSun lyrically attempts to accept the loosening of an ancient grip that is no longer serving her personal growth. “Singing You This Song” is the ninth and title track that is full of lyrical contemplation and the replaying of past memories in LeeSun’s head over bouncy instrumentals that aid in the certainty of the indecision that she is feeling within. The tenth track, “Oh My Love”, lyrically opens up a relational casket that LeeSun knows she should forbid herself from yet her ego finds tempting to revisit. “Everything Dies” is the eleventh track lyrically tackles denial in a soul-tugging manner as LeeSun waxes and wanes between whether to push another away or pull them closer. “I’m Coming Home” is the twelfth track in which LeeSun lyrically lets go of the weight that she had previously carried and finds a place within herself in which she is ready to return home to both herself and another. Closing out with “We’re All Made Of Stars” (Guitar Version), LeeSun reminds listeners that we are all made of unique elements that make us exactly what we are and it’s okay to feel proud of who you have become.

‘Singing You This Song’ is an album that naturally brings tears to an individual’s eyes in the most welcoming way. LeeSun has created a breakup album for the ages. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Lily Allen, PJ Harvey and Norah Jones, then keep an eye out on the ride ahead for LeeSun on Soundcloud.

LeeSun Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Bandcamp

Categories
Music Reviews

Baltimore Musician, DannyDosha, Releases New Single: “Kelsey 2”

Baltimore Multi-Genre Musician, DannyDosha, has taken his artistry for a turn through diving into his currently painful inner world throughout his beautifully mastered new single, “Kelsey 2”. In dedication and admiration of Cello player, Kelsey Lu, DannyDosha lyrically travels through a seemingly light lyrical tale that takes listeners through an emotive spin through a troubled personal predicament that ends with an abrupt and unexpected end to the track which solidifies his intention of final and total release. Slow and serene instrumentals compliment the earnest effort to overcome as they sound as though they were mixed to train the listener to take the time to absorb their own personal hardships and in due time, heal.

Having began to get his feet wet in the world of music at the ripe age of 9-years-old, DannyDosha stands out from the pact through his ability to cross between genres fluidly and tackle any battle that he is facing within throughout the process. Through a wide range of musical influences within his intermediate family, DannyDosha was able to expand his horizons and challenge himself to create a niche and sound that speaks for his unique spirit. If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Frank Ocean, Kid Cudi and MGMT, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for DannyDosha on Soundcloud or Spotify.

DannyDosha Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • YouTube Channel

Categories
Interviews

Interview: Whitney Tai

Cosmic Lovechild, Whitney Tai, has an uncanny way of lyrical storytelling in a metaphorically rich way that is captivating to the open soul. Having created a road of her own with her band of brothers that enhance her electric live shows, Whitney and the guys create a space full of Dream Pop wonder. I caught up with Whitney Tai Bassist, Christian Rivera, to discuss his creative collision with Whitney, finding peace in driving while on the road, music being the core of his life and much more.

Tell us about your experience of meeting Whitney and how you two connected to in turn desire to play music together.

It’s actually quite funny: I went and saw a show in Hollywood with a mutual friend. Afterwards, we went to the Burgundy Room for some drinks, and he invited her to meet us, and made the introduction. After talking for awhile, she told me about a dilemma she was facing: she had a show booked in San Francisco, and needed a bass player to fill in. Without even considering the fact that (a) I wasn’t a bass player, and (b) I didn’t even own a bass guitar, I blurted out “I’ll do it!” She sent me some material to learn, and I got myself a bass, and figured it all out. The rest is history. I guess the lesson here is that sometimes unique opportunities come along that you have to say yes to, even if you haven’t got it all figured out just yet. You just never know when or even if a similar opportunity might present itself.

Detailed question, how has your life changed ever since working in the music industry?

I’ve pretty much done music for my entire life. Even when I was in the military, I’d always make time for it. I can’t really say it’s changed my life, because it’s something I’ve always known. I will say that because of this journey, I’ve seen some of the most amazing places and met some of the most amazing people. I couldn’t imagine spending my life any other way.

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

It’s actually an ongoing thing. It’s the constant challenge of trying to improve myself as a musician and as a person in general. There’s always some new concept to learn, one more rep, another person to help, and so on. On some days, I don’t feel adequate, so that can be a bit of a struggle at times. I just try to start each day with a positive mindset and focus on improving the things that I do have control over.

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

To me, it’s just a fact of life. I think it’s something that can be a very helpful tool if used properly, but on the other hand i do feel that some people take it a little too far, like it can be an addiction. I see some folks who seem to base their entire existence on how many “likes” and followers they can get. Me, I’d rather use it to promote my music and keep in touch with my friends and fans around the world, and just go live my life.

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.

Wow, I never really thought about that. Music really encompasses every aspect of my life. I live and breathe it, so I really don’t put my energy into much else; wanna see my guitar collection?

Photo Credit: Liz Peterson Photography

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?

Honestly, on van tours for instance, I love to drive, especially at night. There’s just something about that endless ribbon of asphalt laid out before me that allows me to really contemplate life’s big questions. Keeping in touch with loved ones back home is another way to stay sane. When I’m not driving, I love to read and handle business. In fact, I’m completing this interview on the I-40, just east of Memphis!

Photo Credit: AngieMonsterr

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

We’re taking a little break from that now while Whitney puts the finishing touches on her new album.

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

Be on the lookout for a new album from Whitney Tai in late Winter/Early Spring 2019! We’re also releasing a holiday album this year, so be on the lookout for that too!

Whitney Tai Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify • Website