In My Concert Bag - Track 10: Padon Suber
DJ Marq and I went to Houston to support our dear friend Padon Suber at Sofar Houston. Check out Marq’s latest podcast of our adventure.
You can also read my Food + Travel Review of the trip HERE.
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.”
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.
Follow Matthew Phillips:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Apple Music
Spotify
ALBUM REVIEW: Johnny Hickman - Palmhenge
By Jessica Klausing
Known as the co-founder and guitarist of the grunge-y Alt-country band Cracker, Johnny Hickman steps out into the Americana spotlight with his first solo album, Palmhenge. Released in 2005, the album received “Voices Choice” accolades in The Village Voice and has garnered positive reviews within the country world. As a Cracker Crumb (The Cracker band fandom namesake), I was eager to take a deep dive into Hickman’s discography and hear for myself. Spoiler: I was not disappointed.
The opener, “Prerequiem (Palmhenge I),” sets the tone in a western soundscape with a lonesome vibe. Hickman knows how to tell a story, and he portrays the emotion and imagery effectively through his music, as evidenced in this song and the following companion track, “The Great Decline (Palmhenge II).” It’s a compelling tune that reminisces about days gone by, evoking a sense of nostalgia for a time before corporate greed and political turmoil tarnished the American Dream.
Listeners will notice the guitar prowess on these tracks. The sultry guitar in “Little Tom” lures you into the mysteriously sensual entrapment of the melody, while the country influences in “Lucky” add that lively handclap and sing-along vibe.
The standout track, “Harvest Queen,” is a mesmerizing desert rock tune with a powerful wall of sound. You can almost feel that stifling desert heat radiate off that melody as Hickman croons, “Summer is dying, we plant by the moon/ God’s anger burning the mountains at noon/ Don’t turn around, she’ll be beckoning you/through those endless fields of green…She’s a Harvest Queen.” His vocals tie the scorching guitar riff together with a cool, nonchalant tone.
As impressive as the vocals and the sublime guitar work are on this album, it’s the songwriting that deserves honorable mention.
Tracks such as “The San Bernardino Boy,” “Hacker Boy,” and “Friends” are fun and filled with melodic hooks and lyrics that are not only catchy but memorable. With a vibrant guitar and cynical wit, this clever blend of songcraft and musicianship is what we love best from Johnny Hickman.
The album winds down with the brooding “Father Winter” followed by the beautiful “Beauregarde’s Retreat” which boasts an entertaining narrative through the lyrics while the vocals tell the tale with charisma.
A tenacious guitarist with lots of heart, Johnny Hickman has created a timeless album. With its vibrant melodies and catchy lyrics, Palmhenge offers a compelling musical journey that’s sure to captivate fans of Americana and Alternative Country. Please do yourself a favor and give it a listen!
Recommended Tracks: “The Great Decline (Palmhenge II),” “Little Tom,” “Harvest Queen,” “The San Bernardino Boy,” “Hacker Boy,” and “Beauregarde’s Retreat.”
Check out Johnny Hickman’s Bandcamp page.
Follow Johnny Hickman:
Apple Music
Instagram
CrackerSoul.com
OnTheFlipsideMusic's 25 Days of Christmas Playlist
By Jessica Klausing
Merry Christmas!
It’s time to deck the halls again, and what better way to get into the holiday spirit than with music! Whether you prefer the good old fashioned classics or the modern hits, we’ve curated a holiday playlist that offers a little something for everyone.
In no particular order here are our 25 Days of Christmas playlist:
“A Marshmallow World” - Dean Martin
Even though the song about the winter landscape, it’s still considered one of the Christmas classics. The lyrics compare the snowfall to marshmallows covering the ground along with other dessert-like metaphors making this a holiday comfort song.
2. “All I Want for Christmas is You” - Mariah Carey
Holiday retail workers either love this song or loathe it with a passion! It’s a cheerful melody, but Mariah’s pitch perfect high notes are the real stand out on this track.
3. “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” - *NSYNC
This is the quintessential feel-good modern day Christmas song. With catchy bubblegum pop lyrics like “It’s a wonderful feeling/feel the love in the room/from the floor to the ceiling,” it’s guaranteed to put any Scrooge in the Christmas spirit.
4. “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” - Brenda Lee
This classic is a must for any Christmas party playlist! The lyrics and melody are catchy, but the best part is when the beat stops on “Voices singing, let’s be jolly/Deck the halls with boughs of holly.”
5. “A Holly Jolly Christmas” - Alan Jackson
This is another popular Christmas classic. Alan Jackson’s honky tonk rendition gives it a small town country feel.
6. “This Christmas” - Joe
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Joe delivers with this sultry, R&B melodic Christmas hit. It’s another highly recommended one to liven up the holiday party.
7. “Sleigh Ride” - TLC
TLC took a classic and re-worked it into a fun-filled festive R&B ditty with new lyrical hooks, playful banter, and of course, an epic rap from Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes.
8. “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” - Michael Bublé
Michael Bublé’s warm vocals give all the cozy vibes. This is one to listen to snuggled up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa.
9. “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” - Bing Crosby
It’s not a true Christmas playlist without Bing Crosby. While this is another popular classic covered by many artists, there’s just something special and nostalgic about listening to Bing regale about a town getting ready for Christmas.
10. “O Holy Night” - Carrie Underwood
A beautiful Christmas hymn performed by one of the most iconic voices in Country music.
11. “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” - Bruce Springsteen
The Boss captures the rock ‘n roll spirit with this energetic rollicking rendition.
12. “Blue Christmas” - Elvis Presley
Christmas music and The King of Rock ‘N Roll go together like peanut butter and bananas. Elvis will tug on your heartstrings with this sentimental ballad. However, if you’re looking for a good laugh, the Porky Pig version is definitely worth a listen!
13. “My Only Wish (This Year)” - Britney Spears
Britney charms her way into our hearts with this sweet song that’s filled with catchy wholesome lyrics and a bouncy pop melody.
14. “Christmas Time” - Backstreet Boys
Perhaps the most gorgeous harmonies featured on a modern pop Christmas song.
15. “Wonderful Christmastime” - Paul McCartney
Paul’s cheery spirit is quite infectious on this one! It’s hard to resist singing and bouncing along to the beat.
16. “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” - John Lennon, Yoko Ono, and The Plastic Ono Band
Recorded as a protest against the Vietnam War, “Happy Xmas (War is Over)” has become a Christmas song standard.
17. “Winter Wonderland” - Alexander O’Neal
Reaching #54 on the Top R&B/Hip Hop Albums, Alexander O’ Neal dazzles with his soulful rendition of this timeless classic.
18. “Christmas Time is Here” - Vince Guaraldi Trio
Famously known as the opening theme in A Charlie Brown Christmas, this comforting classic brings a smile to all ages.
19. “Zat You, Santa Claus?” - Louis Armstrong
An underrated swingin’ holiday tune with all the Creole Jazz goodness.
20. “Mary, Did You Know?” - CeeLo Green
This one is a real tearjerker! CeeLo delivers a beautiful, heartfelt performance that embodies the true meaning of Christmas.
21. “Run Rudolph Run” - Chuck Berry
A fun, high energy performance by the Father of Rock ‘N Roll.
22. “Please Come Home for Christmas” - The Eagles
Only The Eagles can take a bittersweet song about spending Christmas alone and turn it into a beautiful rockin’ masterpiece with a wailing guitar.
23. “Christmas in Dixie” - Alabama
This country song is a celebration of Christmas in the southern American states.
24. “Step Into Christmas” - Elton John
Elton brings the Christmas spirit with ringing bells, angelic choirs, and lots of high energy!
25. “Christmas Vacation” - Mavis Staples
As featured on National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation, it’s a holiday banger that will easily get stuck in your head.
Follow and listen to the OnTheFlipsideMusic’s 25 Days of Christmas Playlist on Amazon Music!
Matthew Phillips - "Till It's Over"
By Jessica Klausing
San Diego-based musician, Matthew Phillips, is trailblazing across worldwide stages, pairing electronic elements, cinematic soundscapes and classic hook-filled lyrics that breathe new life into the alternative genre. On July 2nd, Phillips and his band took to the Main Stage at the Del Mar Fairgrounds for the single and video release concert of his debut single "So In Love” with thousands in attendance. As for the reminder of 2023, the multi-instrumentalist shows no signs of slowing down with the release of his newest single, “Till It’s Over.”
“Till It’s Over” showcases a vulnerable side to Matthew Phillips as he grapples with moving on from a toxic relationship.
Phillips says, “I wrote “Till It's Over” from a place of uncertainty. Not really knowing where I stand with this relationship. The one thing I knew is it was very toxic. I needed to move on from but chose to stay out of fear of being lonely. It hurt deeply and during the recording of the song I had a few moments where I completely choked up and had to stop. “I am a shattered heart, I am a shattered soul” is exactly how I felt when I had to let go. It really hurt. “It's not over till it's over, but it's time to get over you” speaks to the notion that while there will always be history with this person. At some point it's time to move on and take a chance on finding someone else who will value you.”
Melancholic lyrics brood over a lamenting guitar and piano before a frenzied electric soundscape surge in intensity throughout the track. Phillips’ vocals effortlessly convey heartbreak through the ebb and flow of the cinematic instrumentation. Despite the pain Phillips offers a glimmer of hope, “Love would be the emotion I am trying to convey. While in the moment it might seem like it's the end of your world. We have to make a choice to get out of the relationship and love ourselves. While the song is about heartbreak, it's more about making the difficult choice to set yourself free.”
“Till It’s Over” is a must listen for anyone healing from a breakup and trying to find the inner strength to move on.
Check out the music video for “Till It’s Over.” The video was filmed live at the House of Blues San Diego on Nov 18.
ALBUM REVIEW: Padon Suber - Love Daze
By Jessica Klausing
Padon Suber has released his highly anticipated sophomore album, Love Daze. Get ready for a hypnotic soulful journey exploring the quintessential romantic emotions of falling in love. Written and recorded in his home studio, Suber tastefully blends Neo Soul, Jazz, Gospel, Salsa, and electronic synths to create a treasure trove of enjoyable tracks from start to finish.
The spoken word intro, “Daze” sets the mood with Suber asking, “Am I dreaming?”while three synths are simultaneously merged to pull listeners into a trippy hypnotic distortion. Without warning, the following track, “Urges” heats things up with a lively horn section and a thumping bass that pulses like a heartbeat. The trumpet solo adds more spice to the fiery tempo making this a stellar tune to hit the dance floor with a partner.
The melody slows down with the passionate soul-driven, “Addiction.” Suber’s beautiful emotive vocals take center stage here accompanied by catchy guitar licks and a bluesy bass. While Suber pours his heart out the tempo gradually increases with each romantic profession. His vocal prowess is captivating as he effectively nails each high note. “Thursday” is another perfect example of his impressive vocal delivery showcasing a beautiful falsetto.
Suber gets back to basics with “Make Things Simple,” proving you don’t need a complex production to make a beautiful love song. With gentle piano keys, organ, and wholesome, heartfelt love lyrics, “One plus one equals two, that’s me and you,” it’ll have listeners bouncing to the beat and singing along with the chorus.
Dripping in more hypnotic synths and infectious grooves is “Love Space,” a stand out track on the album. The lyrics “I think I love you” creates a sultry tone over a euphoric back beat. Each mesmerizing note, synth embellishment and drum beat is irresistible within this arrangement. It’s a gorgeous track that transcends listeners into a dreamy dimension.
Another track worthy of honorable mention is the summertime anthem, “Kinda Love.” This song just exudes confidence and swagger as Suber croons, “Give me that 24/7 kinda love. You seen me 78 times but it aint enough” over the funky guitar riffs and sonic ambiance.
Love Daze boasts charming songwriting and masterful production skills. Padon Suber’s beautiful soundscapes are a joy to listen to and are effective in capturing the listener’s imagination in such a way that makes each listening experience feel like falling in love for the first time.
Recommended Tracks: “Urges,” “Addiction,” “Make Things Simple,” “Thursday,” “Love Space,” and “Kinda Love.”
Matthew Phillips - “So In Love”
By Jessica Klausing
Matthew Phillips returns with a new single, “So In Love,” and a video release concert on July 2nd.
According to Phillips, “the song is about being so in love.” He says, “It’s the things we are willing to do in that state of mind. An incredible thing about music is when people take a song like this and make it their own. I have my story as to what it means to me. I think it's incredible when we play it live and others will tell me what it means to them. Music is such a beautiful form of expression.”
On The Flipside Music was given early listening access to the song and here are my thoughts:
Tastefully layered with catchy guitar hooks, a synth bass and spirited drums, “So In Love,” is a vibrant musical delight that showcases Phillips’ ability as a compelling storyteller. The cinematic soundscape is complimented with earnest lyrics that hit hard through passionate vocal delivery. The melody pulses like a racing heartbeat as he professes, “I would do anything to have one more day with you/And I would say anything to have one more night with you.” Just when listeners think the song is winding down, in comes a rip roaring guitar solo that soars over the backbeat. The recording and mixing on this track is flawless and smooth from start to finish.
Phillips says about the recording, “We recorded it with producer Jerrell Ayran and layered the arrangement in his studio. I went back and started tracking all my guitars and cut the lead local with Roy over at Rarefied Recording. We had 4 Mics across 2 amps and I couldn't be more satisfied with the tone we captured. I then linked up with producer Joel Piper over at Farmhouse Studios. We tracked all the backing vocals, he added a synth bass in the chorus and layered his incredible drum sounds to give it that final touch. It's something we are really proud of and it's time to share.”
Mikey Videotape - "The Strangest Dream"
By Jessica Klausing
Hot off the presses from Lost Records comes the debut single of Mikey Videotape’s “The Strangest Dream.” This progressive song has a modern day The Romantics - “Talking In Your Sleep” vibe with its electronic production.
“The Strangest Dream” begins just like something from a dream with a whimsical sonic ambiance as Mikey croons softly, “Last night I had the strangest dream/Every number, every piece/One…Two…Three…”
Mikey takes listeners on an ethereal journey through the use of cinematic moving synths and hypnotic layered vocals. When the acoustic guitar outro abruptly kicks in, it snaps listeners awake from the lush lucid dreaming soundscape into a more traditional musical arrangement.
Listeners are left almost discombobulated as Mikey gently reflects with, “Everytime you fall asleep, you’re gonna wonder what it means/When you wake up, I’ll be gone, but the feeling lingers on.”
With elements of nostalgia and mystery blended among the programmed instrumentation, “The Strangest Dream” is an infectious earworm worth keeping on repeat.
SONG REVIEW: Padon Suber - "Kinda Love"
By Jessica Klausing
Neo Soul artist Padon Suber releases his new single, “Kinda Love.” This is the second single off his highly anticipated album, Love Daze, which is set to release later this month.
Suber says, “Kinda Love is love in the form of infatuation of being so crazed about someone, for no specific reason other than the happiness you feel when you think about the way you function around that person. It’s that blissful feeling that makes you want to be with them all the time.”
“Kinda Love” begins with a funky guitar riff and breezy background harmonies, as Suber reminisces about the joy of just being with his love. As the chorus starts, we learn that he’s not interested in something superficial, but just, the ‘kinda love’ when you and your love just can’t get enough of each other. It’s an upbeat and feel good love song
Suber’s silky smooth voice croons, “Give me that 24/7 kinda love. You seen me 78 times but it aint enough.” The Neo Soul sonic ambiance and catchy lyrical professions is a perfect listen for long drives or just lounging poolside for the summer.
SONG REVIEW: Cigarettes After Sex - "Nothing's Gonna Hurt You Baby"
By Jessica Klausing
Dim the lights and get ready to take things nice and slow. Cigarettes After Sex are best known for their dreamy pop-noir ambience and sensual, androgynous vocals from frontman Greg Gonzalez, who describes the band’s songs as “erotic lullabies.”
While all of their songs have that same lethargic vibe, “Nothing’s Gonna Hurt You Baby” from the 2012 EP, I, is a stand out track in terms of modern romanticism lyrics with a beautiful, subdued melody.
The song begins with a thumping bass as Gonzalez croons, “Whispered something in your ear.” As he proceeds to recount the wholesome yet romantic debauchery with his lover, the haunting guitars linger in the background accompanied by a delicate tapping of drums. The tempo picks up briefly with a whimsical synthesizer at the chorus, “Nothing’s gonna hurt you baby/As long as you’re with me, you’ll be just fine.”
Whether you’re looking to have a passionate night or to just wind down and relax after a stressful day, Cigarettes After Sex is a band worth checking out.
SONG REVIEW: Padon Suber - "Thursday"
By: Jessica Klausing
As featured on the On the Marq Radio Show with DJ Marq - Episode: The Antidote: Interview w/ Singer Padon Suber
R&B artist Padon Suber releases his new single “Thursday” from the upcoming album, Love Daze. This soulful track is a celebration of love that is bursting with warm tones and blissful rhythmic grooves that will have you falling in love with Suber’s sultry smooth voice.
At the start we’re treated to heavenly harmonies telling us that “It’s Thursday.” Suber coos on counting down the days until he can finally see his love with, “I can’t wait to see your face. Monday. Tuesday. Wednesday. I can’t wait til this Thursday. I hope you’re on your way.”
When asked about his new song, Suber recalls, “I wrote this song as an ode to one of my band member’s relationship with his girlfriend. Before they moved in together they shared a long distance relationship, he was in Houston and she was in Louisiana. They had a system where she would come stay with him at least once a month for a full week starting on a Thursday. I was so moved by the consistency of his response toward those symbolic Thursdays that I wanted to capture that moment in a song. I think everyone can relate to that feeling of bliss when thinking about seeing the person who makes them smile.”
Filled with the soft strum of an acoustic guitar, gentle percussion, a spirited organ, and a powerful falsetto, this song is a beautiful addition to any romantic playlist or just to share with that special someone.
ALBUM REVIEW: Desmond Parson - Like a November
By Jessica Klausing
Desmond Parson’s Like a November is a smooth nod to classic R&B with a delightful modern twist. The gorgeous album art (created by Artist Seam L Ess) catches the eye with a sharp contrast of fiery reds and cool blue tones which serves as the perfect visual representation of what to expect from Parson’s newest release. This charming album flows beautifully with mellow melodies and warm harmonies to create a wonderful easy listening experience to indulge in.
The opener “Come Through November” is a sultry spoken word jazzy concoction that will warm your soul like sipping a hot cup of coffee on a cool autumn morning. Erika Floyd waxes the poetic of the seasonal changes while Lee Flowers drops a smooth lofi beat in the background. The overall theme of the entire album is summed up with this verse:
“As the leaves of trees change, we change
Concealing ourselves, less transparency
Since more layers are necessary, but in contrast there’s opportunity
To get in closer proximity of one another.”
Next Parson sensually leads us into “Blue Nile,” a groovy R&B track that exudes a sexy persona while maintaining a cool tone that is as hypnotic and alluring as the fragrance itself. When asked about the inspiration behind this song, Parson recalls smelling the cologne in his youth while listening to music. His song is an ode to the fragrance and its cool vibes which he still proudly wears today.
“Let’s Pretend” glows with Parson’s warm vocals that are both comforting and uplifting. With an infectious soulful chorus and smooth love swagger this song gives strong Luther Vandross and Boyz II Men vibes. The trickling piano intro adds grace and eloquence to this beautiful track like autumn leaves falling from the tree.
Continuing on with more heartfelt storytelling is “I’ll Be Around,” in which Parson professes that he’ll “be around when you wake up in the morning.” In “Something Kind Of Sweet,” Parson and Anna Surv croon sweet harmonies about the innocence of falling in love with “you’re what sugar is supposed to be.”
Another standout on the album is the remix to “Possibly.” Parson released “Possibly” on his Resoulation EP in April 2022. The track was a success and a streaming favorite among fans, such as UK DJ personality, DJ Silver Hawk, who suggested to Parson to consider remixing the original. It’s such a fun remix bursting with upbeat drumming and a flute that will have you singing along with Parson, Kojo Snowden and Ashley Watkins asking, “Can I be your cup of tea?”
The album closes with a jazz instrumental reprise of “Come Through November,” featuring Lee Flowers strumming a gentle reflective melody on guitar with a cheerful saxophone wailing in the background.
Like a November is a beautiful demonstration of Desmond Parson’s musical prowess as a solo artist. Parson takes the softer moments within the album and builds on the self reflection through the use of his soulful vocals and instrumentals. Each song is a delicate ear worm from start to finish that leaves listeners feeling cozy.
Recommended Tracks: “Come Through November,” “Let’s Pretend,” “Something Kind of Sweet,” and “Possibly(Remix).”
EP REVIEW: Xs and ARROWs - Awoken By Owls
By Jessica Klausing
In the midst of the pandemic Los Angeles based indie rockers Xs and ARROWs’ second EP, Awoken by Owls takes listeners on a self-reflective journey filled with sweet acoustic melodies and the sounds of nature. According to Courtney Lavender, “The recordings on this EP were born from the stillness of being nowhere but in nature, and the space it freed to allow me to create. No more hours on a freeway, in doctors’ offices, or in a white box room with six computers. Just the wind, the snow, the rain, the sun, the smoke, the fire. Just the sound of midnight birdsong, and the owls.” Lavender has been keeping herself busy this year with three music video releases ahead of the EP, using wildlife footage shot in the San Gabriel mountains and metaphorical lyrics to convey seasonal depression during “this drawn out period of lockdown life” as she describes.
The opener “Doin’ Time” sets the mood with wistful guitar strums as Lavender croons, “Well, I’ve been growing restless/ Waiting for change/Tomorrow’s caught in the turnstiles/All tattered and frayed.” You can hear the desperation in her voice as she cries out, “Feels like I’ve been doin’ time,” like a forgotten prisoner begging for freedom. “Little April” follows with the gentler, “We all need a little sunshine/ We all need reassurance,” as she invites us to “come on in” to her metaphorical spring of hope, offering warmth and comfort.
A standout track, “Call You Home” provides a cheery tone as the udu creates a pots and pans clanking sound reminiscent of a lone traveler backpacking along in the wilderness. While this pandemic may have jaded our hearts, “Raise Your Heart” dares us to be more vulnerable and wear our hearts on our sleeves. It’s a beautiful reminder that as humans we often feel stuck overcoming obstacles, but we should never give up and always persevere. “Go Deeper” closes out the EP with a layered tapestry of lap steel, tambourine, guitar, percussion, and soft harmonies weaved together seamlessly as Lavender makes her profound declaration, “I’m ready for the receiving,” thus ending the listeners’ journey on a positive note.
Awoken by Owls is a superb follow up to the 2017 EP, From Here. Xs and ARROWs hone in on their storytelling craft as Lavender’s warm vocals really shine, providing a much needed light in this darkened world. Each song flows beautifully into the next and the album as a whole is a pleasure to listen to.
Recommended Tracks: “Little April,” “Call You Home” and “Raise Your Heart.”
SONG REVIEW: Desmond Parson - "I Pledge"
By Jessica Klausing
As featured on the On The Marq Radio Show with DJ Marq - Episode: Soul glo
Encased in lush neo soul, “I Pledge” is an alluring and emotive newly released single from Desmond Parson. Portraying a message of being in love and a “pledge of allegiance” declaration from new couples and longtime couples alike, this track is the perfect choice for weddings and anniversaries. Parson coos sweetly over a mellow melody while trickling piano keys, warm horns and a heavenly choir of background harmonies bring out the retro R&B aspect into this delightful musical soundscape.
Desmond Parson is one artist not to sleep on. You can hear the Stevie Wonder influences in his music, and I for one cannot wait to see what else he brings to the soul table.
SONG REVIEW: Naja - "Closer"
By Jessica Klausing
As featured on the On The Marq Radio Show with DJ Marq - Episode: Soul glo
Heartfelt confessions and sonic backdrops take center stage on Minneapolis based artist Naja’s latest song, “Closer.” Jump starting into the song, Naja pours his heart out to the listener about not “needing no fancy things,” which builds the emotion with a concise drum beat before cresting into a layered echo of background vocals.
According to Naja, “this song is inspired from trying to reject materialism and ego, and trying to pursue spirituality. I’m a recovering drug addict, and although I have been sober for over a decade, I find that drugs are a just symptom of my soul sickness. I’ve always tried to use external things to fix the way I feel internally.”
The profound highlight of the song comes with the piano melody cascading down like gentle raindrops to cleanse and purify the soul. As Naja coos his soulful harmonies delicately, a warm saxophone injects a funky jazz element into this already rich musical soundscape. As the song winds down, Naja leaves us with the overall message that real happiness doesn’t come from outside things, and yes, life is not always great, sometimes it’s full of fear, and we have to walk through it, but we don’t have to do it alone.
SONG REVIEW: Conrad Ashton - "Those Were The Days"
By Wanda Whitley
Conrad Ashton
Reminiscing and regret, yearning and letting go, moving forward yet looking backwards…this pure and catchy song by Conrad Ashton reflects loving (and having lost) that one person who no matter what remains an influence in everything. These lyrics capture the hold of a true love that got away, a past love that was so strong that still infiltrates the present. A love that still lives in dreams. You can’t help but feel a little sad listening to this tale of a love that once was. At some point we all want to go back in time, to relive the best times of our lives. This song demonstrates that everything we go through in life does indeed become a part of us – especially when we find love.
Heartfelt and sincere, Conrad sings from his core – you can feel how much he cherishes the memories of this past relationship. Love and hurt co-mingles together, and what is encouraging is his acceptance of it all – he is moving forward and realizing that what he shared with this love will always be with him, and because of this experience, even with his loss, he is never truly alone because his memories are always there.
Cool guitar rhythm (who would’ve thought you could jam along with a song about loss)? Conrad has brilliantly put together a song that we can all relate to – having the best of times with a true love, and then dealing with the aftermath when those times come to an end.
Check out Conrad’s website for more information.
INTERVIEW: Jeremy Neese of Snowcone For President
Snowcone For President. Photo by Emily Neese.
“A vote for Snowcone For President is a vote for a heavy sonic candidate.”
Snowcone For President is an alternative rock band straight out of Carrollton, Georgia. Their high energy performances coupled with the antics of band mascot Snowcone the Bad Panda have earned the band attention within the indie music world.
In this interview frontman Jeremy Neese discusses his musical projects, the new Snowcone For President album and Snowcone the Bad Panda’s origins. Read it HERE.
Follow Snowcone For President:
Website
Facebook
Instagram
Spotify
Soundcloud
Music Business Monday - What Are Mechanical Royalties?
We have added a new section to our site! Music Business Monday will serve to offer valuable tips for up and coming independent artists.
Check out our first article - What are Mechanical Royalties?
SONG REVIEW: Aliice - "Sorry Mamma"
By Jessica Klausing
Singer-songwriter Aliice brings a vibrant pop sound with a carefree Punk attitude into her songs. Born in Los Angeles and raised in Chile, Aliice launched singles from 2017-2019 to her debut Electro Pop album titled Facing the Monster, dedicated to confronting our inner and outer demons and inviting us all to be brave.
Her newest song, “Sorry Mamma” intends to cause a sexual female revolution. Aliice wants her listeners to be proud of their sexuality and never ashamed.
“I was raised in Chile which is very conventional and traditional and women are criticized for everything! So, this is my middle finger song to all those years and remarks about my life and my body,” said Aliice.
“Sorry Mamma” is a sultry anthem that fizzes as pulsing beats and accelerating electronics create a heart-racing soundscape. Aliice seduces her way into your ears as she coos about a steamy encounter with a man. With racy lyrics fleshing out this body grinding danceable beat, Aliice celebrates and embraces her unapologetic sexual confidence. “Sorry Mamma” is a flirty, grooving chic display from Aliice. Don’t sleep on this artist! She’s one to keep an eye on.
Check out Aliice’s other releases! Her music videos are visually stunning with colorful backdrops.
Follow Aliice:
Website
Spotify
Apple Music
Youtube
Instagram