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Music Reviews

Bronx Musician, C.P. Alx.Zndr, Releases New Single: “Whoa”

Bronx Musician, C.P. Alx.Zndr, teams up with Deacon for a soulful and masterly produced new single, “Whoa”, which instantly attracts listeners through its genre-bending style which hosts elements of R&B, Hip Hop and Soul. Lacing both an intimate lyrical style with potent depth which showcases the cultivated inner world that C.P. has worked diligently to sprout, there’s no doubt that his life experiences endured shine through throughout “Whoa”.

As an award-winning NYC songwriter and musician, C.P. Alx.Zndr stands tall and bold for those that are taking the route of no return when it comes to leading the life of their dreams through their artistry. “Whoa” is both tasteful and unique through a sultry touch that provides just the right amount of lust for listeners both young and wizened.

If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Miguel, Chris Brown and Ne-Yo then keep an eye on the promising ride ahead for C.P. Alx.Zndr on Spotify.

Click HERE to listen to “Whoa” by C.P. feat Deacon

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Interviews

Interview: FaltyDL

New York based record producer and musician, FaltyDL, has created a world of his own in which he dishes out enticingly dense, magnetically dark, and utterly captivating displays of musical craft that seduces you as it seeps under your skin. I caught up with the creatively rich human being who is on the cusp of releasing his sixth LP, ‘Heaven is for Quitters’, to discuss his upcoming projects and more.  

First and foremost, introduce yourself to our readers. Who is FaltyDL?

My name is Drew, I am FaltyDL and I live in Brooklyn, NY. I have been making electronic music for about 12 years now. I regularly tour and DJ my albums. I have worked with a couple record labels such as Planet Mu and I have also created my own record label, Blueberry Records.

Is anybody else signed to Blueberry Records?

Drew – Yeah, I have signed a bunch of artists to Blueberry Records, but I don’t sign artists to a contract where they can’t work with anyone else; I wouldn’t want to do that to anyone. I sign artists per record, so to speak, but I’ve got a bunch of new artists and some old artists as well. 

Jessica – That is quite liberating. I am assuming you know how it is in the record industry; a record company can tie you down and as a musician, you can ultimately sacrifice a lot of your career.

Drew – Yeah, definitely. I try to treat artists like I would like to be treated as an artist.   

When did you begin peaking interest in techno/house music?

Around the early 2000’s. I got into electronic music through DJ Shadow in a way; trip-hop, electronica and genres as such in a way. Some weirder stuff like Aphex Twins and Squarepusher when they were already well into their careers. I sorta got to go back and check out all of the old records that they made as well. I was about 16 or 17 years old at the time. 

Congrats on your LP, ‘Heaven is for Quitters’. Tell us all about the recording process.

I challenged myself on this album by recording with vocalists at my studio, which I have never done before; I have always worked remotely or they would just send me their vocals, mainly because they would live in other countries. But, I have a few singers like Hannah Cohen, and Jose James come over and record, which was fun and a little bit scary because they are artists that work in real recording studios. So, I challenged myself as far as the process of recording people and all of the mixing down on the record. I tried really hard to mix it down a little bit smoother this time and make sure it sounds good on a loud sound system.

Jessica – You mentioned that you brought in some vocalists from overseas. Who do you perceive was the most intriguing and fascinating vocalist that you’ve worked with thus far throughout your career?

Drew – Oh, that’s good. There are so many that I have worked with; there’s a few like Rosie Lowe who is on the track, “Drugs”, off the new album. She is such a pro. I mean, she records the vocals on her own and sends them to me and I usually don’t have to do anything to them. At times, I get vocals from a producer and I have to spend a lot of time getting it on the track, cleaning it up and editing it. But, when someone as professional as Rosie just sends you her vocals and it’s just perfect right away, it’s really incredible. I mean, I would love to work with Bjork or Thom Yorke, all those big names; that’d be incredible. But, realistically, it’s when I work with just really talented, hard-working and hustling vocalists that I feel really good about it. 

Thoughts on Massive Attack?

They’re incredible. I grew up listening to the whole Bristol sound. You know, Rob Smith, Tricky; that whole Bristol sound is incredible. I like Massive Attack because they will go away for awhile and come back with a new album that’ll still bang. I respect that. It’s such a heavy sound. They also have an incredible live show and I really do like their visual performance. 

You and I are in New York on a hot summer day. Where are we going to eat and why?

I love these two restaurants in my neighborhood, Diner and Marlow, they are both right next to each other. I would go there because A, they are local and I know all the people that work there. And B, they are so local that I don’t have to go too far from home, which I like. It’s a really good atmosphere and they play really good music at both spots. 

Tell us about your artwork for your albums and the human beings that brought them to life.

All of the artwork for this album is done by an artist by the name of La Boca; him and a couple of his designers did one of my last albums called ‘Hardcourage’ as well. I just think he kills it at this smooth, radiant, and animated cartoony look that I feel a lot of people have been trying to emulate ever since he’s been doing it. I think it is really important to have the artwork be as accessible as the music in a way. I think that he always compliments my music really well and creates an image that people can sort of relate to and enjoy. 

Jessica – Interesting. In a sense, syncing the energy of your music coming from your inner being into the external aspect as the musical creation tied to it’s artistry. 

Drew – Yeah. I’m not a visual person, I’m an auditory person. So, working with another person who is talented into the visual aspect helps bring the other part forward, ya know?

If you had to give one piece of advice to an emerging producer, what would it be?

Just keep going. If you feel like you are running into walls either creatively or just trying to get yourself out there, just keep going. Also, make as many of your own opportunities as possible, because sitting around and waiting for someone to offer something can be very long and it could just not happen. So, make your own things. Throw a party. Start your own record label. Send out your own demos. Just try and do everything. And listen, take in everything you can, but try and just focus on what sounds good to you because that’s how you are going to develop your own sound. Try and ignore what Twitter is saying, how everyone loves this new album or that new album; forget about that stuff, it doesn’t matter. Enjoy what you enjoy and keep working. And don’t take shit from anyone.

Jessica – Yes. Both personally and professionally. 

Drew – Yes. In life. Yes.

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

Yeah. I have this idea that if you have been following me for awhile, you have followed me through a bunch of albums and I keep throwing out curveballs. For instance, this album does not sound like the one before, and just thank you, very much, for sticking with me. I appreciate it. It means a lot, because it makes me feel like I’m not losing my mind when I’m about to put out an album that feels like something I have never done before. I am just honored. I meet people all the time that tell me that they are fans of my music and in the moment, I am just trying to get through that social interaction by being polite and being nice, but I take that all home and I think to myself, “Holy shit, I can’t believe that person reached out to tell me they like my music.” It makes me feel so good. I am very grateful.

Jessica – Are you quite introverted? Do you spend a lot of candid time on your own?

Drew – Yeah, I do. A lot of it is by design; it’s just the nature of the job. But also, I work at home. Their will be whole days where the only time I go out is to get a turkey sandwich across the street and I don’t see anyone or pick up the phone for a day or two. So, you start to get a little loopy. You know, you got out, you meet someone and you just start talking; you don’t know how to socially interact. So, yeah, I get caught off guard by people all the time when I am out of the house. But, I am definitely split; I enjoy being an introvert and I also like to have some human contact as well. 

Jessica – Uh, yeah. I don’t perceive that you would make it on stage if you you had total introvert vibes.

Drew – Yeah. That is a weird experience. Being on stage and performing is this weird, made-up experience. It’s nothing relative to how people should act in the world. You know, you are on this pedestal; it’s a very unnatural thing. But, it’s also very dope.

Jessica – Do you feel like you go into a trance on stage?

Drew – Yeah, sometimes I do, and that’s nice, but it’s hard to do that when you see a thousand people staring at you. You just get into. You just roll with it. 

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PHOTO CREDIT: Janye Lies, WeAreShura, Daniel Dorsa)

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Music Reviews

New York Musician, Lillimure, Releases New Single – “WDYTM”

New York Musician, Lillimure, is diving into her boundless abyss of thought to discover previously uncovered wonders and musings pertaining to her journey ahead throughout her latest single release “WDYTM”. Lacing vulnerability and uncertainty into the songwriting behind “WDYTM”, Lillimure exhibits that she has reached a place of nothingness in mind throughout the chorus which showcases the self-awareness that she has reached at the ripe age of 19-years-old. Striving to answer questions that have been lingering through her mind pertaining to a relationship that is occupying her heart, energy and time, “WDYTM” gives listeners a glimpse into her world prior to her album release that is currently set for June 2019.

Having chosen to express herself through storytelling and lyricism that is simple yet carries the intent through with precision, Lillimure has her vision set and has in turn created a track that meets the modern-day Indie feel. As a young, driven and emerging musician who is leading out her day to day life and finding herself as an Artist along the way, Lillimure is packed punch of young and vibrant soul that is setting a new tone. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as Norah Jones, Skylar Grey and Joni Mitchell, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Lillimure on Soundcloud.

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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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Music Reviews

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

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: Kore Rozzik

New York Rockers, Kore Rozzik, are aware of the reality of the music industry and are navigating it from a place of ensuring that their truth is at the forefront. Having recently released their new album, ‘Vengeance Overdrive’, I caught up with the gang to discuss responsibility as an artist, being your own worst critic as an artist, social media being a tool they haven’t fully learned how to crack and more.

Congrats on the release of ‘Vengeance Overdrive’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

I really wanted to create a fun interesting story. Make Kore an iconic figure with a story and a goal in mind. A big motivation for the record was the fact that I had experienced so much prejudice and judgement from the local scene. I truly had a lot of hardships and the art truly imitates life. Vengeance is a record based in NYC and Kore’s desire to not just become a successful musician but to silence the haters and in some cases literally. It’s a fantasy horror story in many ways. The songs slowly started to organically create the vision that I had. I learned that sometimes the songs will show you the way and can further inspire more songs. Especially once you know that you are doing a concept album. The recording process was pretty smooth with our team. They knew how to showcase our talents and bring life to what we wanted to display.

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

Save your money because you’re gonna need it. Half of the stuff you are worried about right now won’t matter in a few years.

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

I think as artists we are our own worst critics. Doubt is constantly coming into our minds. We can be our own worst enemy. But you have to see this is a blessing. Even though at times it is a curse. We have the ability to create and inspire. Experience things in a way most other people won’t or could ever understand. Being in a rock band big or small is a unique thing.

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

I think that in a way it’s a great tool but it is still a code I haven’t fully learn to crack. I think sadly a lot of quality music is lost in the shuffle due to over saturation online. Many things are cherry picked to the top of the line.

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 fact that I’m a very gray person. Open-minded. We are all influenced at times but I see things in my own way. I can see through the media and political agendas. At Least I think I do. I just don’t let certain things affect me the way I see others. EIther people swayed so extremely or just feeling so strongly about something in an anger driven way.

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 do my best to get sleep. Many bands don’t do hotels at our level for cost purposes. I however need the rest. It’s the only way to maintain my voice and my sanity. I also bring on the road what I call my “medicine bag”. It contains many vitamins and supplements for immunity and anxiety. I do my best to socialize with fans that are positive and loving. Have a few shots of crown to take the edge off but within reason.

Life in New York must be so creatively inspiring. Tell us about your experience in NYC and how it has enhanced your artistry.

NYC has been a mixed bag for me honestly. Hence the moniker” The bastard child of NYC”. I think it motivated me to be the person I am today. Fueled by frustration and competition. I never felt truly supported by my peers. But I think that drove me to be harder and stronger. That’s why the first record is so aggressive. I had to prove a point and surpass many others that doubted me. What NYC has taught me the most is this: Be aggressive, hustle but be humble. If you do that then people outside your circle will like you and want to help you. I think that’s something that a lot of NYC lacks.

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

Right now we are working on booking some of our headlining tours and also looking out for some solid supporting slots as well. Keep your fingers crossed for us.

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

Keep spreading the word for us. It means more than dollars. YouTube, Spotify, Facebook,  Instagram; everywhere and anywhere. Thank you to everyone that has done the right thing in 2018. Kore Locos are the best. See you next year! Don’t be a bozo.

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Music Reviews

New York Rocker, Paul Maged, Releases New Music Video: “The Resistance”

New York Rocker, Paul Maged, has been developing a reputation for showcasing exactly how he feels both visually and artistically through his music and sustains our awareness of his rebellious nature throughout his latest music video and single release, “The Resistance”.

Politically charged and abounding with the showcase of our current reality that has stemmed from our crooked President in the states, Paul has created a music video that is a newsreel of highlights that are abounding with the cold hard facts of the government’s current despicable and unethical intentions and actions. The lyrical trajectory of “The Resistance” carries blasts of hope and influences listeners to push against their known while challenging themselves to go beyond what is perceived as acceptable both artistically and mentally. Rather than succumbing to the common societal standard of leading a brainwashed life abounding with commonalities that tend to cause strife, Paul Maged is a force and independent thinker that is able to sleep at night knowing that he is true to his core.

The final piece of Paul’s musical trilogy stemming from his two latest EP’s, ‘Light Years Away’ and ‘The Glass River’, is set to drop in 2019. Having grown tremendously as an artist over the past year, Paul is refining his style and creating a trademark of rebellion that is enlightening, refreshing and needed. If you’re a fan of mixture of fellow musicians such as Rage Against The Machine, Billy Joel and Billy Idol then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Paul Maged on Spotify.

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Interviews

Interview: Shinobi Ninja

New York Rock Hood Group, Shinobi Ninja, live out their intent of shaping a vibrant state of consciousness that includes and welcomes all throughout their music and artistry. Having ‘Bless Up’ under their belts as an album that speaks for itself, Shinobi Ninja are finding the wealth that comes from embodying their truest selves. I caught up with Vocalist, Duke Sims (D.A), to discuss how growing up in Brooklyn shaped the man that he is today, progress over perfection, becoming more confident in his talents, being a kid in the studio and more.

Congrats on the success of your fourth studio album, ‘Bless Up’. Tell us about the creative and recording process and what you learned along the way.

‘Bless Up’ was a collection of the  songs we were working on right before our studio that we had been creating and working out of for the past 6 years closed. The goal was to complete these songs before the studio closed, so the album had a vibe of closure and also a positive outlook for what is to come for us in the future. The lesson for me on this album is that you may think that this song or that song is gonna be the one but in actuality it’s not that song you think, it’s the song you don’t think too much of that is going to be the song that people find and connect with the most. I had experienced that before with our previous album, but this album cemented that for me; to be open to whatever is gonna happen.

You guys carry the New York swagger so well, so naturally. Tell us about your life in the Big Apple and how living in New York has impacted your life.

I’m born and raised in Brooklyn and have been running around NYC my whole life. It’s all I’ve ever known. When you hear the phrase, “If it walks like a duck and talks like a duck then it’s a duck”, that’s me. Brooklyn formed me. It put me arm and arm with every nationality, age, race, sex, etc. that you could have. I grew up playing in the streets; street basketball, baseball, music, cutting school, getting in trouble, music, good times and bad times. The concrete jungle is the school I graduated from. I’ve seen all kinds of crazy things and I learned from all of it. It’s teachings are with me always.

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

Life is a challenge. It just keeps coming. I’m still learning. Fear is something I’ve overcome over time. That’s the biggest challenge. Fear of any kind and choosing not letting it stop you in whatever it is your doing and want to accomplish. Progress over perfection was a key lesson for me. Perfection is perception and it doesn’t exist. Progress is real. You can see it. So I go for progress over perfection. Trying to be perfect used to lock me in. Now I don’t care about that. I keep putting in the work and moving forward. That’s a good feeling. When things reach completion and then you move to the next thing. Keep growing.

How has your experience in the music industry impacted your life? How was the man that is Dave changed every since you began with Shinobi Ninja?

Before Shinobi Ninja, I was still thinking about who I wanted to be and how I could become that person. Shinobi Ninja allowed me an avenue to succeed and to fail. With success, I became stronger and more confident in my talents and what I can offer the world through my art and music and my love for the people and the universe. Failure taught me about changing things that I was not doing well or things that were holding me back. It taught me to let go and to not hold on to expectations. The music industry is made of people. I love people. Shinobi Ninja gave me an avenue to be a Superhero. Now I can fly.

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

I think it is awesome. I think there’s quick fix meals out there that is the content we see everyday. There’s levels of substance. You can see something that entertains you for a couple minutes but doesn’t really change you and then you can see or hear things that make you really think. I love the digital age we live in because all the info is out there. Information is power. This is a great time for thinkers and artists. A lot of fuel for the fire.

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 service. When I can be of service to people that is a great thing. However, I can be a positive contribution to the people is what it’s all about for me. Whether it’s a song, or a video, or a piece of art or a text message or a positive word to someone. A life is here and then gone, so for me it’s about being a positive influence and force while I’m here in this journey at this time.

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 don’t watch the news. I don’t watch politics. No murder killing type shows. If the Golden Girls is on then it stays on. I love to have anything that I’m going to hear or see be uplifting for my spirit and mind. Documentary’s are great information. Sitcoms have the laugh track. Laughing is good. Music is good. Hearing new music that will inspire my creativity to new realms. Being around good people. Smoking weed. Eating well.

Photo Credit: Pixel Journalism

Tell us about a day in the studio with you making beats. Are you experimental and willing to take major creative risks in your music?

My mom took me to a class when I was little that was a dude in a loft in NYC surrounded by things. He showed how you can make sounds with anything. He put water on a mirror and made noises. Then he took a hose from a vacuum cleaner and whirled it around his head and it made a cool sound; that impacted me huge. When I go into the studio, I’m still that little kid. I’m listening for that unknown. I’m down to try anything. If it sounds good then it’s a go for me. I’m there for the magic. I’m listening to what my body tells me is the hotness. I trust my instincts and I have fun. The most fun. Being in the studio for me is like a fish being in water. It’s who I am. I learned to breathe there. It’s like a bird flying. I could fly forever.

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

Keep spreading the positive vibes. Move with compassion. Move with love. Take time to breath. Take time for yourself. Check yourself. Check your ego. Think about your goals for life. How will you accomplish them? What have you learned in trying different ways to achieve them? How can you adapt? How can you keep growing? Make the best of today. Keep moving forward. Every step adds up. Even if you only move an inch forward today. Inches add up to feet. Feet add up to Miles. Follow the yellow brick road. Keep dreaming. Keep striving. You’re not perfect. Nobody is. Have compassion for yourself. Your awesome and I want you to know your loved. I believe in you.

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Feature Image Photo Credit: Commons.Wikimedia.Org

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Music Reviews

NYC Experimental Artist, Max Lee, Releases New Album – ‘Colors of Noise’

NYC Experimental Artist, Max Lee, showcases his uncanny ability to read the state of our future throughout his latest full-length album release, ‘Colors of Noise’. Here’s our track-by-track thoughts.

Kicking off with the first track, “Finder’s Keeper”, Max laces in entrancing samples and musings that has stirred through his mind while his scratchy vocals serve to showcase that he is in tune with his discomfort as member of modern-day society. The second track, “No Debt”, builds castles in the sky as Max bleeds from the heart and calls out into the ethers to magically release the financial burdens that are holding him back in life. “Open” is the third track that creates the instrumental feeling of the dragged-down intricate detail that MUTEMATH shared with the world throughout their 2006 self-titled debut as Max lyrically attempts to open new realms and avenues of thought within. The fifth track, “History”, showcases the dynamic range that Max Lee is able to dabble in as hushes and whispers ignite his vocal style and add a touch of charisma. The sixth track, “2livealife” is the seventh track that feels like Brand New in their ‘The Devil and God are Raging Inside Me’ days as Max examines his woes and sees right through the pretentious antics of a certain breed of human beings. The eighth track, “The Key”, is the musical equation of liberation as Max has reached a place of assurance that he is ready to set himself and another free from the self-imposed restraints and restrictions that have hindered them fully uniting.

“C U Again” is the ninth track that fits like a puzzle piece right into the album’s flow as a moody soundscape leads listeners into the belief that Max is eager to reunite with a long-lost lover. The eleventh track, “Forever”, intentionally fades in and out to mimic the flighty feelings that Max has been encountering within a deeply intertwined soul connection. The twelfth track, “Painted Eyes”, tones down the album with a soft blast of grief as Max lyrically reminisces about the eyes that he stared into and saw remnants of himself within. “Never Going Back” is the thirteenth track that subliminally speaks of Max’s indecision as he lyrically bounces back into a place of ego and attempts to convince himself that he is not returning to a place that has once caused him emptiness and misery. The fourteenth track, “Btwn”, investigates feelings that have sprouted through the distraction (another human being) that has hindered the merging of two human beings that truly love each other. The sixteenth track, “Touchthestars”, carries an Electronic and Trip-Hop tone as Max lyrically declares his desire to learn about every cell within another. “Part of Everything” is the nineteenth track that begins in higher spirits as lyrics that dive into a variety of conscious connections throughout Planet Earth which feels like a psychologically pleasing and stimulating serving of intricate thought. Closing out with “Breathe”, Max reminds himself of his humanness as he slowly reaches for the surface.

Creating samples and the 21st commonalities of discontentment with the workings of the world is what keeps Max Lee afloat and alive throughout ‘Colors of Noise’. If you’re a fan of fellow musicians such as MUTEMATH and Radiohead, then keep an eye on the ride ahead for Max Lee on Spotify.

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