ALBUM REVIEW: Greg Lisher - Songs From The Imperial Garden

By Jess Klausing

With Songs From the Imperial Garden, guitarist and composer Greg Lisher delivers a captivating third solo release—an evocative, genre-defying instrumental journey that showcases both his compositional finesse and his expansive musical vocabulary. Best known for his work with alternative rockers Camper Van Beethoven and Monks of Doom, Lisher here fully embraces his voice as a solo artist, crafting a lush and introspective record that traverses folk, ambient, Celtic, and Middle Eastern influences with seamless grace.

Produced by long-time collaborator David Immerglück (Counting Crows, Monks of Doom), the album is richly textured and bolstered by an ensemble of accomplished musicians. Drummer Michael Jerome, upright bassist Jon Flaugher, violinists Tim Weed and Michael Star, and multi-instrumentalist Eric Rigler (noted for his work on Braveheart and Titanic) all contribute to the album’s sweeping sonic palette.

The three-part suite “Spider Season” serves as a playful thematic thread throughout the record. Each reprise of the melody introduces subtle instrumental shifts, creating a sense of continuity while keeping the listener engaged through variation and nuance. Tracks like “From Canyon to the Sea” evoke a sense of tranquil movement—suggesting sunlit coastal drives and open air—while “The Exterminating Angel” haunts with pedal steel and organ textures, offering one of the album’s most stirring emotional peaks.

“Three Kings” is another standout: a richly layered composition where Celtic motifs are woven through acoustic guitar, mandolin, and violin. “Passage Through Baghdad,” in contrast, pulses with energy, blending modal melodies and dynamic percussion into a vibrant Middle Eastern-inflected arrangement. “The Science of Sleep” is a textural dreamscape of synths and bass, conjuring the surreal quiet of lucid dreaming, while closer “The Tourist” feels like a poignant epilogue—contemplative and wide-eyed, looking back on the album’s musical odyssey.

Though Lisher’s roots lie in alt-rock, Songs From the Imperial Garden is an ambitious and deeply personal statement that confidently explores far-reaching sonic terrain. It’s a record that rewards both deep immersion and casual listening, full of emotional shading and cross-cultural resonance.

A masterwork of instrumental storytelling, Songs From the Imperial Garden stands as one of Lisher’s finest achievements. Whether drawn by its cinematic flair, global textures, or meditative calm, listeners will find themselves returning to its gardens again and again.

Check out Greg Lisher’s newest instrumental masterpiece, Underwater Detection Method.

Recommended Tracks: “The Exterminating Angel,” “Passage Through Baghdad,” “The Science of Sleep,” and “Three Kings.”



Help Crazy Sloth get to Camp Out!

Crazy Sloth logo by Jess Klausing

Donate to the Kickstarter HERE

Help Crazy Sloth Travel to and Perform at Cracker/Camper Van Beethoven's 20th Anniversary Camp Out Festival! (September 11-12-13 2025)

Colorado’s favorite up and coming indie rock band, featuring JOHNNY HICKMAN, cofounder of CRACKER have been invited to Pioneertown—if we can get there!

Hey friends, fans, Crumbs, and fellow weirdos—
We’re Crazy Sloth, a genre blending, eclectic Colorado band with a slow burn and a loud soul. And we’ve just been invited to play Cracker/Camper Van Beethoven’s legendary Camp Out festival at Pappy & Harriet’s Pioneertown Palace in Pioneertown, California— the coolest, dustiest, and most iconic venue in the Mojave Desert!

This is a huge opportunity for us to bring our sound to a wider audience, share the stage with some rock legends, and represent Colorado at a festival that’s all about roots, grit, and authentic indie rock music. But we need your help to make it happen!

ALBUM REVIEW: Antonio McGaha - The Rebirth Season 2

By Jess Klausing

There are albums you listen to, and then there are albums you feel. Antonio McGaha’s The Rebirth Season 2 firmly belongs in the latter category.

This isn’t just an album—it’s a testimony. A confessional, a meditation, and ultimately, a celebration of transformation. Building on the foundation laid by its 2024 predecessor, The Rebirth Season 1, this second installment brings the artist’s personal evolution to the forefront, guided by themes of heartbreak, reflection, healing, and spiritual renewal. But what makes this project stand out isn’t just its emotional depth—it’s the intentionality behind every lyric, every production choice, and every transition.

“It’s all based on my personal experience,” McGaha shares. “How in the process I was essentially reborn from a spiritual and mental perspective.”

McGaha masterfully blends elements of R&B, soul, and contemporary sounds to create a rich auditory experience. Tracks like “One Day,” featuring Khalid Salaam and Kalin Williams, and “Free,” with contributions from Khalid Salaam, Sickflo, and Kalin Williams, showcase his ability to fuse heartfelt lyrics with dynamic instrumentation—resulting in songs that are both emotionally resonant and musically engaging.

A key strength of The Rebirth Season 2 lies in its cohesion. The album flows effortlessly, thanks in part to the chemistry between McGaha and producers Troy Maddox and Khalid Salaam. Salaam, who also co-wrote much of the album, brings a sensitivity to the production that complements McGaha’s vocal tone and storytelling. The result is a smooth yet textured sound—rich in emotion but never overly dense. Whether it’s the quiet strength of “Radical” or the lyrical honesty of “I’m Sorry,” the sonic palette supports the message without ever overshadowing it.

One of the album’s most unique features is its recurring radio break segments from the fictional station 55.5 Love FM. These are more than just skits—they’re symbolic. Serving not only as transitions between tracks but also as thematic anchors, they reinforce the album's exploration of personal growth and emotional depth.

McGaha explains that 555 is an angel number representing change—and love is at the core of who he is: as an artist, husband, father, educator, and friend.

“The radio breaks were just a creative way to signify the change in the mood and the content of the album.”

Antonio McGaha doesn’t shy away from pain, but he never lets it define him. Instead, he frames hardship as a teacher.

“Mistakes can be made, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world,” he says—and that’s exactly what this album embodies. The Rebirth Season 2 reminds listeners that even in our darkest moments, there’s room for growth, love, and a new beginning. It doesn’t just tell us this—it shows us, track by track.

Recommended Tracks: “Free,” “Radical,” “One Day,” and “I’m Sorry.”

CH3LS - "Love On the Rocks"

By Jessica Klausing

“Love on the Rocks” is a testament to Chelsee Foster’s (CH3LS) growth as an independent rock artist. It strikes a perfect balance of soulful vulnerability and evocative emotion. This song isn’t just for anyone who’s gone through a tough breakup—it’s for anyone who’s ever truly felt the complexities of love in all its forms!

“It’s definitely about love and trying not to give up hope of finding it after being burned,” says CH3LS. “But I also know that, at the end of the day, I always have a good whiskey and my own company to enjoy.”

Written with Los Angeles producer Ryan Maker and recorded in Nashville, the track is driven by heavy rock 'n' roll riffs, brawny drums, and a fierce howl that surges with adrenaline.

With this release, CH3LS has cemented herself as an artist to watch, offering something real and relatable in a genre often dominated by superficiality. You can catch CH3LS on tour now, performing with the legendary band, Starship.

Follow CH3LS:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube
Spotify
Apple Music
Amazon Music


Falling Doves - "Fire & Ash"

Written by Jessica Klausing

Alternative rockers Falling Doves release their new single, “Fire & Ash,” in honor of their upcoming 10th anniversary and in the wake of the Los Angeles wildfires. All proceeds from the song will benefit MusiCares, a non-organization dedicated to supporting musicians affected by the devastating fires.

Although the song was originally written in honor of lead singer Chris Leyva’s late father, its meaning evolved in light of the recent tragedy.

“When my father passed away this past December, I wanted to write a song for him in light of my recent loss. I started thinking about his incineration that was going to happen. I knew he would be free from pain,” Leyva reflects. “Although morbid, it was ashes to ashes, dust to dust vibes. I wanted it to be upbeat with a mixture of Bryan Adams meets The Cult.”

What Leyva and his bandmates did not expect was that just a few days later, the fires would begin in their hometown of Los Angeles.

“It just hit home extra hard when the lyrics matched the situation. What’s strange is that there’s a little place in the Palisades where my father had asked for his ashes to be spread after his cremation.”

Produced by Australian producer, Jack Goode, “Fire & Ash” is a melancholic track with atmospheric guitars that give listeners a hazy, dream-like feel, while Leyva’s warm vocals offer a glimmer of hope with lyrics like, “Fire, in the distant sky / Fire, taking what we had / Fire, with a violent blue / If I make it through, it’s all because of you.” Laced with lamenting instrumentation and emotion, the track is an immersive listening experience.

You can purchase this song and more music from the Falling Doves on their Bandcamp page.

On Thursday, January 23rd, Falling Doves will headline the House of Blues Anaheim's Fire Relief Concert for MusiCares. The event promises an unforgettable evening dedicated to providing a safety net for music people in need. Tickets are available now at a special early bird rate of $20, with day-of-event tickets priced at $25. Doors open at 6 p.m., and the show begins at 7 p.m. at the House of Blues, 400 Disney Way #337, Anaheim, CA 92802.

Purchase tickets HERE.

Follow Falling Doves:
Facebook
Instagram
Youtube

EP REVIEW: Tony Andreas McQueen - God's Plan

By Jessica Klausing

After taking a brief hiatus from releasing music, Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Tony Andreas McQueen returns with his emotionally driven new EP, God’s Plan. McQueen bares his soul as a broken man hitting rock bottom in the aftermath of a divorce, but through the pain and uncertainty, he clings to the hope that this is all part of God’s plan.

The opener, “God’s Plan,” hits you right in the gut with the lyrics, “I don’t understand, but I know you have a plan; I trust in your plan.” It’s a somber tune, complete with lush harmonies and graceful piano laments, while the strength, emotion, and unashamedly drive for the glory of God are provided by the soothing tones of McQueen’s vocals.

Despite the emotional turmoil, McQueen takes the high road on “Love of Your Life,” forgiving his ex, wishing her well, and hoping they both find another love. He builds the song superbly, transitioning from a delicate intro to a bright rhythm, providing listeners with the optimism that everything will be alright.

Self-doubt and disappointment try to creep back in on “No One part 1,” but McQueen boldly professes the promise of God’s love with the line, “No one can love like you do,” which is repeated like a mantra as the piano crescendo builds the momentum. 

“No One part 2” seamlessly blends with the piano, and McQueen’s vocals soar with his bold declaration to God: “I’m not alone! I’m not afraid! You silence the fear. You took all my shame away! The power of your love is setting us free! I’ll worship you for all of my days!” It’s one of the shortest tracks on the EP but is packed with a powerful message, delivered with such gusto that leaves listeners in awe. 

About the EP, McQueen explains, “These songs deal with the loss of a love, which was my former spouse, and through it all, I have definitely not blamed God but have stayed loyal to His plan. Not everyone can go with you on that journey, and while that fact hurts, it’s something we must all endure.”

God’s Plan showcases how McQueen was able to find redemption through the power of forgiveness and God’s love. In moments of doubt and uncertainty, he found comfort in prayer and reflection, trusting that God was guiding him toward something meaningful. It’s a beautiful EP, packed with vulnerability and raw passion. Well done.

Recommended Tracks: “God’s Plan,” “Love Of Your Life,” and “No One part 2.”

Follow Tony Andreas McQueen:
Apple Music
Facebook
Instagram
Amazon Music
Youtube

ALBUM REVIEW: Padon Suber - At Night

By Jessica Klausing

Padon Suber's latest album, At Night, showcases his mastery in contemporary R&B. The album guides listeners through an electronic nightlife experience filled with irresistible EDM beats, complemented by Suber's vocals effortlessly transitioning between smooth, soulful tones and passionate highs.

The opening track, "Different," highlights Padon Suber's Neosoul swagger, narrating a charming encounter where a girl appreciates his unique qualities. Following this meet-cute vibe, "Flirt" features a catchy chorus celebrating the joy of flirting: "I like to flirt, she likes to flirt, we like to flirt, so we just gonna flirt."

Naturally, no Padon Suber album would be complete without some sex appeal. "Confession" exudes a sultry feel, blending a fiery Spanish guitar with an electronic soundscape, echoing the lyrical style reminiscent of the 2010s Hip Hop era, which Suber fondly refers to as "chasing love in the club."

"Down Too" continues the upbeat nightclub ambiance, enticing listeners into a hypnotic melody. Originally titled "Trap Soul," the song's energetic composition encourages listeners to embrace freedom and take risks. 

A standout track, "Run the City," deserves special mention for its dreamy harmonies and mesmerizing melody, evoking a sense of liberated freedom. The album concludes with “Runway,” turning up the heat with vibrant calypso guitar gusto.

At Night envelops listeners in ethereal soundscapes, with layered vocals and experimental electronics capturing the essence of falling in love. Throughout the album, the Spanish guitar adds a seductive allure or an energetic pulse to Suber's vibrant R&B sound. For R&B enthusiasts seeking a blend of timeless allure and contemporary flair, Padon Suber's music is a must-listen!

Recommended Tracks: “Confession,” “Down Too,” and “Run the City.”

Follow Padon Suber:
Youtube
Website

Matthew Phillips - "Time Fades Love"

By Jessica Klausing

Alternative rocker Matthew Phillips has recently released his third single, "Time Fades Love." Following the success of his previous hits in 2023, "So In Love" and "Till It’s Over," Phillips received recognition by winning the "Best Pop Artist" award at the San Diego Music Awards. Coinciding with this achievement, the official music video for "Time Fades Love" was recorded live in front of a full audience.

Matthew Phillips is recognized for his thoughtful lyrics and vibrant pop style, as evidenced by his captivating storytelling in “Time Fades Love.” The emotional depth of his vocals enhances the rawness of the song's message about the fleeting essence of love. Poignant lines like “When love fades away, there is hope/don’t you give up on me now, I need you,” resonate over a sorrowful guitar and piano backdrop, eventually giving way to a transcendent soundscape that lifts the listener.

When asked about the song, Phillips says, “It is about never giving up on someone you care about. It’s not strictly a romantic song, I am also referring to friendships and anyone who you care about. Sometimes we can get so busy with life we lose connection. It’s a song of hope and asking whoever this may be in your life to not lose faith in you. We need each other more than any of us would like to admit. The song is about working through conflicts, seeing them through, and coming out stronger together.”

Save the date - Matthew Phillips is set to play a free show at the Spreckels Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park on August 29th as part of the “Twilight in the Park” concert series. “Twilight in the Park” is a non-profit that makes it possible to keep the arts alive and free in the local community.