Tag: Jessica Golich

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Music Reviews

Russia Rock Band, Apache Rose, Release New Single – “Tiny Love”

Russia Rock Band, Apache Rose, lead listeners to flow fluidly into a state of ease throughout the release of their soul-infused new single, “Tiny Love”. Lacing feelings of lust throughout instrumentals that are abounding with spunk, Apache Rose is a band that is full of talented musicians that have come together for their genuine love for making music. Stemming from Moscow, “Tiny Love” is a track that is full of high energy that stems from their underground movement yet their lyricism focuses on utilizing the English language to attract further listeners in North America. The songwriting style by Lead Vocalist, Ilya Novokhatskiy, is simple yet precise and hits the nail on the head for the overall Rock niche that the band fits into.

Embodying the energetic and loose energy that the world of Rock needs, Apache Rose is a promising act that is bound to make their music spread far and wide throughout 2020. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Cage The Elephant, The Black Keys and Foster the People then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Apache Rose on SoundCloud.

Apache Rose Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • YouTube

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Interviews

Interview: A Hundred Drums

Denver-based Musician, A Hundred Drums, is an educator beyond the music and has used her ever-expanding skillset to aid in the development of fellow artists. In celebration of the upcoming February 14th, 2020 release of her self-titled album, I caught up with A Hundred Drums to discuss the importance of eating consciously, creating her original sound through going back to her roots, building a community and tribe through her music and more.

Congrats on the upcoming release of your new self-titled album. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout the release.

Thank you! I am really excited about it. My intention with this album is to finally share my own, original sound. I grew up listening to Jazz music. That was my mother’s jam. From there, I started playing instruments as a young kid. Clarinet, Saxophone, flute and of course, the drums. Drum kit, hand drums, and all top percussion. I want to infuse my background into what I love today, really creating my very own sound. Aside from my classical training, I fell in love with Deep Dubstep, reggae, and Psytrance. Put that together, you get… my album. 

Though a broad question, what have you learned about yourself and what skills have you developed through working with Gravitas Recordings?

I’d love to start off by saying, thank you to Gravitas Recordings for their continued support and believing in me and my music. One of the most significant pieces through this experience is really seeing what it’s like to work with such a strong team in a professional way. 

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

With access to people’s lives at your fingertips, it’s easy to get lost in doubt and comparing ourselves to others. To curb this, I check in myself, have a drop in and take a moment to reflect.

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 take pride in the community that I surround myself with. Being around a tribe of other driven and motivating people that drive and motivate each other, circles back to feed the community. 

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

I believe food to be top of my list of ways to maintain my mental and physical health. Healthy body, healthy mind. I’m always happy when I get to cook one of my recipes from my HelloFresh boxes! 

If you could take yourself back to a time in which your mind, body, and spirit experienced pure bliss, where would you go? 

I mentioned earlier that my mother listened to Jazz music. I remember a time when we were driving in the car, and one of her favorite songs by Peter White came on. I played one of the parts on my Clarinet and nailed it. I remember her being happy…and remember being proud of myself. That sure is a moment I wouldn’t mind revisiting.

Header Photo Credit: Banana Cam Photo

A Hundred Drums Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram

Presave A Hundred Drums New Self-Titled Album HERE and grab yourself a beanie while you’re at it—-Photo: Sean Snow

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Interviews

Interview: Lil Eddie

Puerto Rican Musical Guru, Lil Eddie, is as dynamic as it comes as his creative prowess ranges from hit-making Producer, 11x Grammy-Nominated Musician/Songwriter and more. The wide variety of genre-bending bangers that have Lil Eddie’s touch on them will astound you, and it is our pleasure to catch up with the man to discuss his roots growing up in NYC, the entire world being in the palm of our hands, overcoming poverty, adversity and more.

Let’s talk about the new video teaser that you posted about on your Instagram with that yellow drip on. What do we have to look forward to?

Ahhhhh maybe a dope video in Greece with the Acropolis in the backdrop! #GITANA

Let’s talk about your current life in New York. How do you balance the constant hustle of the city with ensuring to take some downtime to focus on your creative work?

I live in London and LA now but grew up in NYC, that city life is real! London is very similar to the city and commuting around the city. I say the creativity is inspired by my daily commute. The music is in the streets on the trains, busses, Uber rides everywhere we turn.

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

I will say the feeling of loneliness. I’m a single man so sometimes the work takes all of me and I rarely get to do anything so love can’t come being trapped away which leads me to then tell myself that the music will get me to where I need to be, so I focus on that.

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

We are in a very interesting time! Social media can have its cons but I see so many pros! The entire world is in the palm of our hands. We can reach further than ever at any given time. That alone is unbelievable.

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 take pride in being a Latino American! Overcoming poverty, adversity, a dysfunctional home and so many odds against me from being homeless and all! I believe my spiritual connection with the man; upstairs and respect for the powers of the universe that got me where I am.

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 find it important to speak to people! Writing helps me, daily affirmations, searching for positivity is important for me! Keeping incredible people around not a lot of people but quality people! Lifers, lovers, preserving my energy and being conscious about who I share my energy with.

As a veteran in the game, what are some words of wisdom that you can share with fellow musicians attempting to follow in your footsteps?

I would say to the inspiring class of musicians that on the way up to never stop! Consistency is a big part of this race! Master your craft! Find the 25th hour of the day, 8th day in the week to devote to your art! Get in touch with your spirituality! Stay connected with the creator! For the universe hands out the rewards in life!

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

Thank you all for supporting me on this journey! I hope I’m inspiring people in my art! Stay blessed and keep it locked with ya boy so much more music to come!

Lil Eddie Social Links:

Facebook • Spotify • Website

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Concert Reviews

Concert Review: FEVER 333 Enlivens the Crowd in Detroit

Rising Rockers, FEVER 333, have created a powerful movement through their artistry that is laced around equality and opportunity for all. Having built a following through spending sincere time with their fans and taking a stand for what’s right throughout society, FEVER 333 shut down the house in Detroit with a balls-to-the-wall performance that was full of passion. Running around and making his way into the crowd, Lead Vocalist, Jason Allen, gave everyone a run for their money as he was climbing rafters, jumping into mosh pits, letting fans sing their hearts out into the mic and more which left both media members and the crowd absolutely floored as to the performance that stood out from the roster for the night.

All Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

“People of all ages, different colors, beliefs, and genders. One of the most eclectic gatherings I have ever witnessed. And they seem to be here in the name of progress for all people.” – FEVER 333

FEVER 333 Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Website

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Interviews

Interview: Desert Dwellers

Tribal House Duo, Desert Dwellers, continue to invite long-time listeners into their world of eccentricity and meaning that is expressed through their artistry. I caught up with Amani and Treavor for a great chat about the meaning behind their latest release, ‘Breath Reimagined Vol. 1’, the spiritual connection that naturally stems through listening to Desert Dwellers, returning to a space of gratitude within, eating healthy and mindfully on the road and more.

Congrats on the release of ‘Breath Reimagined Vol. 1’. Tell us about the message that you intended to portray throughout this release.

We aimed to bring a message of unification, by collaborating with producers from many various countries and parts of the world, and also producers working in a diverse range of downtempo and psychedelic chill out influences as well. The 14 remixes run the spectrum from ambient dub to haltime to glitch to psy bass, yet all the offerings work together in unity, creating a dynamic journey for the listener. We also have 3 volumes of Breath remixes planned, the 2nd release are re-imagined into Slow BPM House and Electronica styles feat artists like Coss & Iorie, Rapossa and Luca Bacchetti. The 3rd and final one is uptempo Deep/Progressive House versions by the likes of Djuma Soundsystem, D-Nox and Uone to name a few.

Listeners of Desert Dwellers commonly are able to further tune into their spiritual nature through engaging deeply with your music. Tell us about your spiritual connection with your artistry. 

We really admire the power that sound and music has to transport the listener and help them find a sense of calm. This innate and mysterious power of music has been a cross-cultural phenomenon for eons and It goes beyond language or borders. We often create journey-focused soundscapes that dissolve the everyday stresses of life and helps people access the core feelings of gratitude, compassion, love, and peace. The world needs people focusing on these qualities now more than ever. 

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

We are living in interesting times. What is happening on the planet both politically and environmentally is deeply disturbing and creates a lot of anxiety and fear for the future. Deep down we wish we could do something more, to change these events somehow with our actions. To do better. Yet we feel stuck like we are living in a nightmare that is a result of human greed and over consumption. It’s pretty difficult to overcome these feelings and what’s happening without ignoring them or self medicating. The best we can do is to keep finding inner peace and sending love to all our connections, and to keep trying our best in whatever small way we can to make an impact in people’s lives and to help the world right now. This time is “all hands on deck” as Paul Stamets has said. Instead of feeling despair, start each day by coming back to what we are grateful for and expanding from that place to help other beings and the planet in some way. 

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

The digital network tools are not inherently good or bad, they are just tools. We all have a choice in how we want to use them, to create unity and community, or create division and separation. We truly live in an amazing time, and being able to connect with people all over the world like this is unprecedented. Personally we utilize the power of connection to create new and interesting music projects and collaborations, and we certainly wouldn’t be able to do what we do without these tools. But like everyone, we often feel the isolation and lack of human connections as we edge further into this virtual hive mind. Collectively, we are both losing and gaining at the same time, and we need to be aware of that as we continue to move forward. 

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. 

Aspects of us other than music? Let us get back to you on that!

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?

Neither of us drink alcohol which we believe plays a big role in our mental and emotional health. We try to eat as healthy as possible and get as much sleep as possible too. It’s not always easy, and we go through ups and downs, but that’s really the jist of it. Oh, and a good sense of humor helps us a lot too!

If you could trade existences with your favorite cartoon character growing up, who would you choose and why? 

Maybe the Road Runner, because he gets to run free in the desert and always escapes harm’s way! He’s also the state bird of New Mexico where Amani grew up and Treavor has spent a lot of time as well.  

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

We are forever grateful to have this opportunity and to have so much support from our devoted fans, to be able to do what we do, and to travel around the world sharing our music! we will keep on going as long as you all keep dancing with us! Live in love. 

Desert Dwellers Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram

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Concert Reviews

Rock Powerhouse, Halestorm, Tears Down the Roof in Detroit

Rock Powerhouse, Halestorm, took Detroit by storm with a performance that created a memory of a lifetime within diehard fans that stood outside in the cold to catch a glimpse of Lzzy Hale and the gang. As one of the leading and most prominent Rock bands of the past decades, Halestorm has ingrained their ‘Vicious’ energy into the legendary ranks with tracks such as “Uncomfortable”, “Do Not Disturb”, “Freak Like Me”, “Amen” and “Here’s To Us”. Co-headlining with In This Moment for a balls-to-the-wall fury of female Metal, Lzzy Hale’s energy is palpable and can uplift any room as her vocals soar and created a widespread mosh pit of frenzied Halestorm freaks.

Catch Halestorm along one of their remaining USA dates and grab tickets HERE while you still can.

All Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

Halestorm Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram • Tour

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Music Reviews

Adult Contemporary Artist, Rob Alexander, Releases New Album: ‘Being Myself’

Adult Contemporary Musician, Rob Alexander, laces his South Florida style and smooth approach throughout his latest full-length release, ‘Being Myself’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “This Hollywood Road”, Rob lyrically travels down the road of highs and lows that naturally comes through working in the music industry as instrumentals that are upbeat and fun uplift listeners with a sense of freedom. The second and title track, “Being Myself”, highlights Rob’s deep vocals that carry immense depth as he lyrically takes a deep look into himself to find pieces of wealth beyond the shield of materialism. “We Own This Town Tonight” is the third track which instantly mimics the likes of Elton John as Rob lyrically talks about a fun night out on the town where freedom reigns and innocence is at the peak of his interests. The fourth track, “Life as We Know It”, slows it down into a smooth expression of reflection as the piano gently soothes the senses of listeners who are enamored by Rob’s charm. “Never Gonna Let You Go” is the fifth track that instantly mimics the likes of Tears for Fears and swiftly shifts into a slow balled that is abounding with lyricism that is laced with feelings of love and longing for a friendship that is gone too soon. The sixth track, “Friend Of Mine (Elton’s Epic)”, is an uncanny dose of lyricism that speaks of the memories that Rob carries with him as he gently mourns the passing of someone near and dear.

The eighth track, “We’re Living in a Dream”, picks up the pace and takes listeners back to a space of contemplation as Rob lightens the mood with lyricism that highlights the importance of living in the present. “Fed Up” is the ninth track which begins with a smooth guitar gently pouring forward serenity as Rob lyrically travels down the path of frustration. “American Love Song” is the tenth track which sends an ode of strength into the hearts of listeners as Rob speaks of the peace that he attempts to find within the death of his dear friend. The eleventh track, “I-O-U”, showcases Rob’s dynamic approach as he revs up the mood with a sultry instrumental groove that is appealing to a variety of listeners both young and seasoned. “Another Love Affair” is the twelfth track which lyrically highlights Rob’s perspective on love swiftly shifting as he aches for a more firm and settling experience of romance. The thirteenth track, “Secrets & Lies”, lyrically approaches lust with an open mind as lines such as “catering to sinners” reminds listeners that Rob is a bundle of soul that won’t settle for a dull and cold fling. Closing out with “Loved By You”, Rob ends with charm and grace as he lyrically welcomes love into his life with open arms even though one single experience didn’t work out the way the two thought it would.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Elton John, Billy Joel and Rod Stewart then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Rob Alexander on Apple Music.

Rob Alexander Social Links:

Facebook • Apple Music • Spotify

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Music Reviews

Minneapolis Musician, stAlkid, Set to Release New LP: ‘Spooky Tunes, For Lovers and the Dead’

Minneapolis-based Musician, stAlkid, approaches his artistry from a space of inner eccentricity and has given listeners a preview of what’s to come from his upcoming February 14th, 2020 LP, ‘Spooky Tunes, for Lovers and the Dead’, with the release of his lead single, “Dreams in the Witch House”. Meshing a variety of genres for a deep dive into the dark through opening instrumentals that are both intense and mastered to precision, stAlkid’s vocals slowly creep in to showcase the depths of despair that he feels as a lonesome soul who is prone to roam throughout life. “Dreams in the Witch House” is a phenomenal lead track that showcases the eclectic style and passion that stAlkid approaches his work with as he is vulnerable and open with his fans about the opportunities of growth that he has within as he continues to walk down a road of sin.

Photo: David Rubene

If you’re a fan of a mixture of fellow musicians such as Nine Inch Nails, How to Destroy Angels and Bright Eyes, then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for stAlkid on SoundCloud.

stAlkid Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram

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Concert Reviews

Concert Review: Lauren Sanderson Drops New Album, ‘Midwest Kids Can Make It Big’

Coming from the Midwest doesn’t automatically exclude you from the ability to make it big. Proving a point that hard work, dedication and extreme perseverance can get you further than you’ve ever dreamed of, Lauren Sanderson has dropped her debut independent album, ‘Midwest Kids Can Make It Big’. Opening up for Chase Atlantic at Saint Andrew’s Hall in Detroit, Lauren Sanderson brought the energy of a headliner with her hits such as “Electric”, “The Only One”, “In The Middle” and “Shut Em Up” which left the crowd singing along to every line. Taking the time to genuinely connect with each and every one of her fans that approached her after the show, Lauren’s character came forward and serves as a “goes to show” moment for musicians worldwide who are taking strides toward building a dedicated fanbase as such.

Lauren Sanderson took a shot of a lifetime by pitching TED for a TED talk back in 2015 which landed her a place in TED history as an LGBTQ member who openly spoke about the importance of simply loving other human beings no matter their race, sexual preference and gender. As a leader of the LGBTQ community, Lauren’s outreach continues to expand as she stands tall as a leader who has overcome extreme odds to shed light for all.

All Photo Credit: Jessica Golich

Lauren Sanderson Social Links:

Facebook • Instagram

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Interviews

Interview: Like A Storm

New Zealand Rockers, Like A Storm, continue to make their mark in the world of music through exploring thoughtful and interactive ways to meaningfully connect with their loyal global fanbase. Having released their third studio album, ‘Catacombs’, in 2018, the guys of Like A Storm are living out their dream and setting a positive example for all. I caught up with Drummer, Zach Wood, to discuss the success of ‘Catacombs’, choosing to do the right thing, being a huge car fan, exploring while on the road and more.

Congrats on the ongoing success that has come with Like A Storm. ‘Catacombs’ was one of the best albums of the year. Tell us about the creative and recording process behind the release.

Thank you so much! That means a lot. We definitely pushed ourselves musically very hard for this new album. It’s unlike anything we’ve ever done. It a lot heavier and musically challenging. The recording process for us is very interesting because all three brothers in the band  wright music. So the album is very evenly spread between who wrote what song. It’s not just all the singer all OR the guitar player. It’s basically every three songs on the album is done by someone else. They all play every instrument as well so the whole structure of every song is done by one of them.

How has the steady climb that has come with Like A Storm affected and enhanced your personal life and relationships?

I’m actually quite an introverted person. So I wouldn’t say it has enhanced my personal life very much. I know some people use the whole “I’m in a band” thing to their advantage but I don’t really go out much or do anything crazy to where I ever feel the need to do that. I actually met my girlfriend on tour at a show.  We’ve been dating for two years, so she knew what she was getting into, and she handles me being away very well and I admire her for that. Not many girls would be trusting or ok with someone being gone months at a time.

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

I’m actually a really easy-going, laid-back, relaxed person. I don’t get stressed easily and I always do the right thing. So thankfully I haven’t had one of these issues in a really long time. It sounds stupid but I’d say the last thing I really felt challenged about was recording our album. It sounds so cliché but I wanted it to be perfect. I wanted people to listen to it and when they hear the drums they were impressed. It wasn’t just something typical that you’d hear on any song and we really strive to make it challenging and make it different.

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

I personally love it. I love social media. I love Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, etc; I grew up with it! I had Instagram and all those apps basically when they first came out. I’m only 23, so I imagine like most people my age I’m always on my phone and I’m always doing something on those apps. I’ve been lucky enough in life to have a job where people are really interested in what I do and I’m able to share really interesting things, so I think I enjoy it more than the average person because I’m able to share unique experiences with people.

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’m a huge car person! Doesn’t matter what make, what model, what year it is, I just love cars!  I go to car shows, rally’s, you name it ! I’m also a huge shoe guy I love shoes as well! I think I have 20-something pairs at the moment and I plan on it growing!!

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?

It’s important to have days off on tour and luckily our crew are really keen on going out and doing stuff, we are huge explorers. Doesn’t matter what town or country you’re in, we will always go out of the bus walk around for hours and hours, go to popular restaurants, or see a movie or do something. It’s important to do this because otherwise you’re just always trapped in a venue or a bus and you do kind of get a little bit of cabin fever.

You have toured with a wide variety of musicians over the past years and have played at some major festivals. Tell us some words of wisdom that you collected along the way.

I can’t remember who told me this but it’s so true. The people that came to see you and paid money to see you, believe in you and they want to see a rock show. So it doesn’t matter if there’s 10 people or 10,000 people you always give them the 10,000 people performance. People like to be entertained and that’s how you’re going to get ahead in this business. you have a really entertaining show whether that’s your production, or your performance. For us we try to make both of those as nuts as possible ! It’s all about entertainment ! And trust me we’ve played plenty of both shows for small amounts of people and huge amounts on our journey.

What are some necessities that you always have with you while on tour which make your life easier?

I’m simple. The one thing I need to make my day work is a Redbull. I need at least one can a day!

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

As always, without you guys we wouldn’t be able to do what we do and it honestly means the world to us. I know every band says this but it’s because it’s so true. Without people who are paying for your merchandise, your CD, or the ticket to see you play, there wouldn’t be this opportunity for us. Siri speaking for all four of us in Like A Storm; we want to thank you, each and all of you.

Like A Storm Social Links:

Facebook • Twitter • Spotify