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.

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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:

1. “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. 

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.” 

Follow Matthew Phillips:

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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: 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:
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ALBUM REVIEW: Jamie Alimorad - This Is Tomorrow Calling

By Jessica Klausing

Singer-songwriter Jamie Alimorad returns with his newest album, This Is Tomorrow Calling. Teaming up with legendary producers Gino and Ross Vannelli, this adult contemporary pop-rock album showcases beautiful instrumentation and Alimorad’s powerful vocal range.

The uplifting opener, “Brighter Days” sends a message of hope to anyone struggling with their inner demons. “When living’s hard and you think you’re better off dead/This is tomorrow calling, there are brighter days ahead.” Alimorad wrote the song in honor of a friend who had attempted suicide. It’s a cheerful pop-rock tune that will lift your mood and bring you to your feet to rejoice. The song is currently being used to help bring awareness to and raise funds for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. You can purchase the Brighter Days t-shirts through TeePublic, with all proceeds going to the AFSP.

The tempo slows down with the bittersweet, harmonica-brooding “Down On Golden Shores.” Alimorad reflects on the past with, “My Alex was so full of life/ I thought someday to make her my wife/ But the world is full of best-laid plans/ Made by sea and golden sands.”

The standout track, “Not Ready to Say Goodbye,” thrives wonderfully on vibrant and zesty Santana-esque guitar rhythms, while Alimorad belts out pitch-perfect crescendos, on letting us know that he’s in this relationship for the long haul.

“I am Home” delves deep into Alimorad’s emotional songwriting with touching lyrics and delicate guitar while the piano meanders wistfully throughout the track. “Rock Me to Heaven” follows as another tender pop ballad that’ll warm your heart with its sweet lyrics and gentle acoustic guitar.

“Lucky Me” has a surprisingly swanky element with funky guitar riffs and hand drum rhythms as Alimorad recounts falling in love with a toxic woman. “The two best days of my life: One was finding her/ Oh; the second was losing her/ Lucky me.”

“How Could I Love Again?” is melancholic and heartbreaking. Elegant piano accompaniment and emotional vocals accompany a distant, pining guitar. The piano-adorned, “A Moment Is All I Ask,” is an emotional track with a loving, swooning melody with which Alimorad expresses his desire to prove his worth to a girl. It’s reminiscent of a Barry Manilow song.

This is Tomorrow Calling is a heartwarming album filled with sublime musicianship. Passion radiates off every track. It’s perfect for anyone who enjoys easy-listening and solid, relatable songwriting.

Recommended Tracks: “Brighter Days,” “Not Ready to Say Goodbye,” “I am Home,” and “A Moment Is All I Ask.”

SONG REVIEW: Ines Herrmann - "Final Enemy"

By Jessica Klausing

German singer-songwriter Ines Herrmann releases her newest single “Final Enemy,” ahead of her upcoming EP, Thunder which will release on September 10.

Herrmann has a knack for compelling storytelling songs as she adds a bold flair of her personality with unique instrumentals to create something truly special. Her music can be compared to Janis Joplin, Kate Bush, Charlotte Gainsburg, and Julia Jacklin.

Herrmann refuses to be ignored as “Final Enemy” is a testimony to anyone who dares stand in her way. Honest lyrics and pitch perfect vocals soar over diligent percussion while Herrmann proclaims that she’s your final enemy, “in the back of your mind when you’re ready to face it.”

Follow Ines Herrmann:
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SONG REVIEW: Tony Andreas McQueen - "Summer Anthem"

By Jessica Klausing

Tony Andreas McQueen is half of the duo known as McKQwn. He is a songwriter, producer, arranger, and vocalist based in Los Angeles. McQueen releases his sizzling new single, “Summer Anthem” to kick off those carefree summer days.

“Summer Anthem” oozes R&B elements with a laid back deep soulful smooth earworm melody.

McQueen’s tender vocals cools and sets the perfect scene for a summertime evening chill. This track will make you want to cruise down the Pacific Coast Highway in an open top convertible with your love riding shotgun. Sweeping in its simplicity and eloquent in its lyricism, it’s a romantic charmer without being too sappy.

Follow Tony Andreas McQueen:
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CONCERT REVIEW: Aaron Carter @ LA's The Mint

Aaron Carter photo by Jessica Klausing

Aaron Carter was the “flyest kid on the block” in the early 2000s with his teen party anthem, “Aaron’s Party (Come Get It).” He wooed teenage girls worldwide with “I Want Candy” and rapped about winning a basketball game against Shaquille O’ Neal in “That’s How I Beat Shaq.” Flash forward to 2019, Carter is back with new music and a more mature image. He proved at Los Angeles’ The Mint that Aaron’s Party never stopped!

Check out the concert REVIEW.

Aaron Carter is offering Pizza Party Soundchecks and after show Meet n’ Greets for his 2019 tour!

Aaron Carter at soundcheck. Photo by Jessica Klausing.

I’m a sucker for artist VIP packages so I decided to try them both out. The pizza party sound check was literally announced a few days before Aaron’s Los Angeles show. I had already bought my ticket and the meet n’ greet pass, but I thought, ‘hey, it’s my childhood idol plus pizza. What could possibly go wrong?’

My night started with a text instructing me to be at the venue at 6:30PM sharp. Upon arrival at 6PM, I received another text informing me that soundcheck had been bumped to 7:15PM instead. No biggie. I killed time at a neighboring café until it was time for check in. A few of us had gathered in front of The Mint’s main doors eagerly awaiting check in and…no one was there.

Confused, I decided to text back the number for advice and…no reply. To make matters worse, it started to rain. Go figure. Thankfully, The Mint had a canopy big enough for all of us to fit under. I was a bit frustrated and cold but determined to not let this little mishap rain on my parade, so to speak. At about 7:35PM, Aaron’s entourage arrived to finally let us into the venue.

Inside The Mint venue. Photo by Jessica Klausing.

We were told that Aaron was running late and would be here in 10 minutes. I did find it a bit odd that no one checked us in or gave us a wristband. That’s usually the protocol at meet n’ greet type functions. Aaron’s entourage was busy setting up the merch table but assured us that we were fine without a wristband. The venue staff did at least come by to stamp our hands.

The last time I saw our soundcheck pizza. sigh I didn’t even get to gaze upon it’s cheesy magnificence. Photo by Jessica Klausing.

The venue manager even handed me the pizza for some reason. He took off before I could ask any questions. I looked around for guidance but everyone was just as puzzled. We decided to put the pizza at the bar. Big mistake. That was the last time I saw that pizza. We didn’t even get a slice. As soon as soundcheck started, the venue took the pizza away. First rule of pizza party soundcheck –never turn your back on pizza!

Aaron Carter sets up for soundcheck. Photo by Jessica Klausing.

Aaron Carter had arrived around 7:45PM. He was proudly sporting his black LøVë sweatshirt with a blinged out diamond studded LøVë necklace around his neck. Everyone had quickly gathered at the stage for the soundcheck performance. Aaron smiled kindly and waved to all of us.

“Why aren’t you two wearing your LøVë sweatshirts?” He asked me and another fan.

Aaron Carter’s merch booth. Photo by Jessica Klausing.

We looked around and noticed we were the only fans not wearing the shirts. The peer pressure was on so we decided to check out the merch booth. Unfortunately, the booth was only taking cash and we brought credit cards instead. The black LøVë sweatshirts are cute and looked quite comfy. I made a mental note to order mine after the show.

The sweatshirts are $45 dollars. You can order one HERE.

Aaron performed brief 30 second snippets of “Fool’s Gold,” “Bad 2 Good,” and “Dearly Departed.” I enjoyed watching Aaron but the screeching speakers made the audio unbearable at times. Soundcheck had to be rushed in order for the venue to open their doors on time at 8PM.  

Despite the hustle and bustle, Aaron still managed to make some time for his fans. He didn’t have too much time to chat but he at least made sure we all got a selfie with him before he had to leave.

Me and AC after soundcheck. I didn’t have time to put the camera on flash mode.

I don’t want to knock the pizza party soundcheck experience for other fans. I do believe the staff could have been more organized, but I also take into consideration that the LA show was only the second stop of the tour. The soundcheck party is a brand new perk which has some kinks that I hope will be worked out for future shows.

Keep in mind:

-The experience is very quick. Ours lasted less than 15 minutes. Be camera ready.
-Aaron’s time is greatly limited at soundcheck. He does try to spend as much time as he can with fans but just be prepared.
-Eat that pizza as soon as you get it!

I will say the after show meet n’ greet was a great experience! The actual meet n’ greets are a much more relaxed experience than soundcheck. You line up at the merch booth after the show. A venue staff member will escort you backstage for your photo with Aaron. Aaron is such a sweetheart who really cares about his fans. I managed to chat with him a bit after my picture. He genuinely does appreciate all of the support. Thanks for a great show, Aaron!

Backstage with Aaron Carter.