One can say that Sarah Petrella’s path to the release of her debut EP started from the moment she was born. She wrote her first song before the age of 10, and went on to immerse herself in musical theatre. Now, Sarah brings her lifelong passion for songwriting to the world via a three song EP, titled Summer. The EP features two original songs and a powerful cover of Pearl Jam’s classic, “Daughter.” Summer was produced by Geza X Gedeon, best known for his work on Meredith Brooks' smash hit, “Bitch.” From a very young age, musical theatre gave Sarah the greatest opportunity to gain exceptional performing skills and constant practice of her writing abilities. While she performed consistently in both California and New York, Sarah never left her songwriting behind. She made her way to Nashville at just 15 years old, where she wrote and recorded with several prominent musicians including famed songwriter, Don Goodman. From that point on, Sarah continued to pursue a very successful career in musical theatre, but kept coming back to songwriting, which is now her full time artistic endeavor. As Sarah says, “Songwriting is my true love and passion.”The EP gently takes flight with title track “Summer” the perfect good time intro groove meshed against catchy harmonies, a full-tilt rhythm section and warm vocals from Petrella. Track 2 “Time Stand Still” is as smooth as silk in its rhythms, rich melody and well placed impressive Celtic fretwork and inviting guitar ambience with a grand slam chorus. This piece flows and ebbs its way through to emotional fruition making for an impressive follow-up statement. Track 3 “Daughter,” my personal favorite, serves up an impressive remake of the Pearl Jam Classic uniquely painted against gorgeous harmonies and hypnotic vocal grooves making for an effective yet compelling musical interpretation. As the EP slowly unfolds I can hear the musicianship from everyone involved is clearly above the bar, all built upon a thick as a brick rhythm section. Song for song the effective combination of Petrella’s voice, world class songwriting and top flight musicianship it’s never called into question. Now turning our attention over to Petrella-- as for her vocal abilities - she is quite impressive indeed. Her musical/vocal style is cut from the cloth of Celine Dion, Bonnie Raitt, and Shania Twain - but I will add she can go toe to toe with any one of them vocally. Petrella showcases a crystal clear vibrato, with an appealing mezzo-soprano persona. All of this makes for a strong and confident vocal ability across the board. I especially like how her voice just sort of flutters melodically with the music. This latest 3 song EP teaser from Sarah Petrella delivers 3 rock solid tracks all providing an interesting snapshot of an amazing artist with thought provoking lyrical wisdom with messages that are positive, passionate and extremely captivating.
I like everything about Sarah Petrella. She's truly an infectious artist that possesses a "Gold Standard" voice, look, songwriting, appeal, talent, vocal passion and overall artistic presence. From start to finish these latest 3 tracks are an impressive short but sweet snapshot of music. The music is warm, marketable, uplifting and very passionate. The pin drop moments are amazing, and her falsetto is to die for. All songs are consistent musical experiences, each one possessing a unique personality, flair and signature groove. Note for note, song for song this catalogue is extremely likeable - very much like the artist herself.
The Brown Edition's new release from Spectra Jazz, Soulpocalypse, is nothing less than a cause for collective rejoicing. The superbly assembled album marks a throwback of sorts - they hail from another era when outstanding outfits like The Electric Flag, Blodwyn Pig, and Blood Sweat and Tears recorded on the cutting edge of popular music. Hailing from the northwest United States, the eight-piece outfit is led by lead vocalist and guitarist Miguel Pineda.The album kicks off with a sprightly, horn-driven instrumental entitled "Squiggle Buzz". The entire album makes it apparent that the horn section of Aaron and Ninee Wolff on sax and flute respectively, Jeff Brooks on clarinet and sax, Nathan Geyer on trombone, Brian Briggs on trumpet are a musical subunit to be reckoned with and this opener is no exception to that fact. "Chicken Shack" has a powerful groove and Pineda's strong, commanding vocals and snappy guitar playing really carries the song far, but there's not a weak spot in the band's presentation."Break Down" is another song that features the band flexing their musical muscle with another skillful instrumental workout.The winding saxophone lines and fleet-footed percussion are a highlight of "Dog Couch", one of the album's best instrumentals. Pineda's vocals step to the fore again for another opportunity to shine on "St. James Infirmary". It is a jaw-dropping rendition of this standard that excels at weaving unbelievable atmosphere with a minimalist approach. "High Life" is a Latin flavored romp with a wonderfully energetic vocal, but the drumming propels the song more. The band saves the best number for last with the album's final song, "The Neighborhood". The number allows the band a final chance to stretch out and the twisting horn lines, busy drumming, and discordant guitar work gel together well. It is chaotic, but never unmusical, and one cannot help but admire the band's strong songwriting skills. While they are still primarily an instrumental band and create compelling material in that field, one senses a growing ambition behind the band. Pineda's appealing vocals are a strength that the band underutilizes on this album, but I don't expect that will be continuing long.
Hailing from Virginia, The Gypsy Sons' debut album Whiskey and the Devil is a thunderous declaration of intent from this new outfit. The ten song collection, released through Spectra Records on May 7, benefits from gritty production that captures the considerable crunch of the band's live sound while still providing the listener with a thoroughly professional product. This is not rock and roll intent on refashioning the wheel. It is blues-infused, deferential to the form, but stamped with the individual expression of four skilled and passionate musicians.The leadoff track, "Walking on the Water", opens the album on a strong note. The rumbling guitar introducing the song leads the listener into a churning, hard-charging blues-rock assault. While the opening track wears its influences on its sleeve, the song "Inertia" is another high-point that boasts a strong lyric, piercing guitar work, and soulful vocals. The title track, "Whiskey and the Devil", is a very traditional take on classic blues and hard rock themes, but the band's vocal talent raises this tale of hard living to another level. “Killing Me" boasts music as desperate as the song's title. It is a blood and guts blues stomp of the first order with grinding guitar riffs and a terrific groove. "Cigarette" revisits some of the same individuality that made the earlier track "Inertia" stand out and, in moments like this, the listener gets a closer look at the men behind the fist-pumping bluster. Tracks like this amply demonstrate the band's versatility - while they rock quite convincingly, the band is likewise able to pull back and explore different shades and moods. The track's moody feel benefits from blistering lead guitar and great singing. The album's closer "Shell of a Man" generates considerable heat alternating between blasts of stuttering, almost funk-tinged guitar and propulsive drumming. It is a fitting conclusion to a strong debut slab of top shelf blues rock in a time when such music is in short supply.
Introducing a new dynamic duo of sorts in Country music known as Howard Salmon and Deborah Martin-Lemmon who just released their latest effort entitled Old Habits are Hard to Break. Right from the start it might be easy to just categorize these 2 as a straight ahead Country duet types and write them off as the newest trending thing. It wouldn’t be wise, though. Sure, if you listen to some of the catchier tunes within this 11 song line-up “Let’s Just call it a Night”, “Old Habits are Hard to Break” and “One of These Days” that’s the impression you would get. However there’s a method to the madness. There are some really good songs on Old Habits that step outside traditional modern country music boundaries and takes us back to Country’s roots. Back when music made us feel good inside. Back when everything didn’t have to seem so corporate in nature. There are a few tracks that go against the modern grain but this really opens up the album to real core listeners rather than limit it. This enhances the listening experience rather than limit it for me. Lemmon-Salmon are experienced at performing and writing music, but it’s the combination of all of the above that makes these 2 so deadly. I mean, there is nothing here that really may seem all that original or fresh to some but perhaps that is why Lemmon-Salmon are on our Radar screens in the first place. Again music is supposed to leave a lasting emotional impression. It heightens our emotional response rather than limit it. Forgive me if I’m talking in circles – but some artists can deliver music that’s pretty straight forward, conservative and painfully simple yet brilliant all the same. Furthermore in lieu of the amazing string of songs these 2 deliver it almost feels as if Lemmon-Salmon are really on to something. Old Habits is a one of a kind CD that is closely tied to old school classic Country-Western, but takes us back a few years when music just made you feel good inside during the experience. When Old Habit’s runs the course one walks away feeling Howard Salmon and Deborah Martin-Lemmon have captured something special.Musical parallels for me include: Dolly Patron and Porter Wagoner, Kenny Rogers, George Jones and Tammy Wynette.The overall sound is a bit dated reminiscent of music popular 30+ years ago. Perhaps they need to modernize their sound just a bit. This can be done without leaving their souls at the studio room door.Howard Salmon and Deborah Martin-Lemmon are 2 amazing artists that will make a splash on the old school Country Music crowd. They are not to be underestimated in any way. Like so many before them they make it look easy, but one must never forget it’s never as easy as it looks or sounds. Let’s leave all that to the experienced professionals shall we.
How would one describe Tracy Walton a singer –songwriter who hails from Litchfield CT? Tracy Walton has never been afraid to re-invent himself. In this spirit, Tracy released the aptly titled “Brand New Again” in 2011. At once rough and vulnerable, Tracy’s voice cuts to the heart of any story, taking you down back roads, through broken lonely hearts, and into hopeful, open skies. So having finally found that steady gig to fall back on, Tracy decided in 2010 that it was time to start “Brand New Again” and focus all of his energy on his solo career. Listening to Tracy sing, one can’t help but hear the years of struggle that all musicians go through. Yet, there is a hope to his deep voice that demands attention. And while it may be easy to hear the Americana flavor, if you listen close you’ll hear Ziggy Stardust trying to show himself, and maybe Chet Baker’s smooth voice singing a harmony or two. His latest release is entitled “If I Ever Get Away” (2013).While it is true many feel the music industry is in disarray it's always a breath of fresh air to hear a new band or artist that's not afraid to take chances with their musical expression. Tracy Walton right away gives off that rugged Americana look many can’t get enough of. Add in an acoustic guitar, some muscular arms, a tight T-shirt and powerful song, nice voice, and a truthful conviction – well I’m rambling here. I think you get my point. With his latest musical offering “If I Ever Get Away” it’s clear to me Walton has surpassed what many consider to be the a-typical musical release for 2013. From the beginning to end “If I Ever Get Away” gives you an amazing soul-searching anthem that captures the grit, essence and restless sprit of classic Americana. “If I Ever Get Away” delivers 10 compelling songs that will keep you entertained and at the same time take a tug at your heart strings. Also present are messages that are boldly honest, powerful and a vibe that is unmistakably vintage Americana. What’s more, Walton combines many impressive musical styles: like Blues, R&B, Folk, Americana and Traditional Rock n’ Roll to Sock n’ Soul popular in the 70’s. Digging a bit deeper I can even hear influences from Motown, Saloon Jazz and Old time Soul Rock. Musical comparables for me are Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Woody Guthrie, Otis Redding, Gordon Lightfoot and even Johnny Cash. Some pieces I really like are “Redeemed” with its amazing message, and gripping “Think you Do” and the title track. The title track alone expands the possibilities for Walton as a possible radio hit in the making. The production is top notch and the playing from all other band members just hits the spot. Walton creates a sound that will make virtually any listener feel right at home. As a vocalist Walton delivers a nitty-gritty baritone hat glides with precision. On all tracks he delivers an array of impressive harmonies and a raspy vocal timber overall. Much of this goes beyond traditional playing and songwriting. Walton has a strong X-Factor. You don’t have to hear him sing a single note to fall in love with him. Lyrics are also an important component for me whenever I listen and review music. In this aspect Walton paints an impressive travelers story deep between the spoken word with boldly brings messages of hope, love lost, gained then lost again. “If I Ever Get Away” delivers amazing music for the senses that has no boundaries – very much like America itself.
Deborah Bonham is not only the sister of John Bonham (the late drummer for the band Led Zeppelin she’s also an accomplished blues based, 70s-style neo-classic rock singer/songwriter based out of England who just released her latest release “Spirit” in 2014 (Spectra Records). This is her fourth release to date.The CD kicks things off with “Fly” a bluesy. upbeat intro piece that serves-up methodical musical build, soulful vocal melodies accompanied by inviting slide guitar, R&B style guitar licks and impressive feel. Track 2 “Painbirds” shifts gears a bit with its striking movement meshed against well placed vocal harmonies, painted against a grand slam chorus. Track 3 “Feel so Alive” delivers smooth moving ditty with well-placed vocal melody, warm musical flow and thought provoking lyrical content that flows and ebbs its way through to musical fruition. As the CD slowly unfolds you will notice a lot of musical variety from these guys reminiscent of classic Melissa Etherdige, Bonnie Rait, Heart, Cheryl Crow and even Fleetwood Mac on steroids. First the music itself has a lot of vocal originality and possesses a psychedelic 70’s rock persona sung from a soulful female perspective. The CD offers a rich melodic vocal foundation and lush layers of instrumentation. I would classify this music as classic 70’s Psychedelic Rock, R&B, Soul Rock and even Jam Band with a strong emphasis on vocal harmonies and good songwriting and superb musicianship. All in all the CD has some truly impressive moments on it showcasing amazing playing, dynamic arrangements, and wire arrangement of instrumentation. Besides the standard 4 piece delivery you will also notice brief splashes of Hammond Organ, well placed harmonies, Fiddles, R&B guitar and solo guitar, impressive harmonies all layered within the music built upon a thick as a brick musical foundation. As far as vocal abilities go Bonham brings the mojo and lets it all hang out with a lot of power, passion, raspy grit and groove-ability. Above all she showcases enough easy going soul to go around. Her voice works well across the board possessing a strong tonality reminiscent of classic Melissa Etherdige, Bonnie Rait, the Heart sisters and maybe a splash of Janis Joplin. Bonham’s voice fits this style of music perfectly. She clearly demonstrates a strong and confident vocal ability as she takes many impressive vocal risks along the way. All production aspects check out as the CD has solid low end groove and crystal clear high end clarity. From powerful “Killing Fields” to smooth moving “Take me Down” to heartfelt “I Need Love” to upbeat I Won’t Let You Don” to rocking “What it Feels” to bluesy Stop Now” this CD has something for just about everyone. The CD ends with Track 12 “Lay Me Down” the perfect faille statement for a CD of this caliber.To go along with the Jam Band format I wish there were more solos segments throughout.In closing Deborah Bonham’s latest effort Spirit is just a blast to listen to and is a strong musical production from start to finish. The music is highly original, extremely melodic with amazing writing and playing from all involved. As the CD progressed I became more and more impressed with it. Because of the influences I would say the flower children who like Janis Joplin or even Heart to Fleetwood Mac will no doubt love this one. The musicianship is first rate, the songs are all consistent and strong. Each song possesses a unique personality, flair, and signature groove. Regardless of her lineage Bonham deserves a lot of credit for being a musical mastermind on her own right.
It’s funny how music can change. It’s so malleable; you could hear it in one setting and hate it, vowing to never again let such filth invade your eardrums again. I’m referring to sonic pop by the way. Then, you could hear it at a different time, in a different situation, a different artist and see something in it that you never considered. It’s not just to down to peer pressure, either. You could be listening to a song on repeat in the morning that by night time you can’t stand. Basically, music isn’t just a meal in itself, to really enjoy it you need to be in the right frame of mind, as well as a situation where you can enjoy it.When I turned on the debut EP release “A Mountain, A Struggle, A Tunnel, A Light” by Pennsylvania native Jiggly Jones I actually did not expect what I heard. I probably wasn’t giving him the best chance for success as I must be honest. Some artists are a bit over the top about their songwriting lately, and I don’t have to mention who they are. It’s just feels as if they are selling something under a false pretence lacking a real and genuine sense of musical inspiration via Cookie Cutter songwriting. I mean give me something I can feel! Today it feels like many artists out there are going through the motions and how appropriate none of it provides real inspiration. Where am I going with his? None of the above applies to Jiggley Jones and his music. Let’s not let the word “debut” fool you though. Just like the title of his 4 song independent EP release, “No Spring Chicken”, Jiggley himself has lived. “Let’s face it, I’m not 18 anymore and thank God for that”, says Jones. “I’m no longer coming from a place that I have to in order to fit in, I’m coming from a place that is different because that is what I’ve become. No tattoos, no piercings, just music, strong and true, music that paints a picture. However you want to look at this picture, whether it’s Americana, Alt Country, or acoustic whatever, this artist represents life, hope, and human nature as only a seasoned person can see it. When asked, Jones firmly states that “however you want to package this or whatever genre you want to place me into, the bottom line is that I am a singer/songwriter first and foremost, everything else can fall where it may. This is simple, it’s about writing songs that mean something.”I was sold on him during the first few seconds of “Walk on Me”. I might add as I drifted in and out of uncomfortable sleep, hazy static and sporadic bursts of music punctuated my dreams I realized this man believes and feels every stroke, every note, every song he played. I played this EP probably 4 times and despite the brutal sludgy of the Brooklyn traffic there was something on many of this 4 track collection that soothed my inner skepticism. On the second listen, slightly more conscious this time, I began to pick out the sounds somewhere between Lou Reed, The The, David Bowie, Bob Dylan and John Lennon. Bending elements of catchy Alternative Rock, sad but true folk and powerful singer-songwriter one can’t help but fall madly in love with songs like (Look What I Found) and (Early Morning Light). This is the perfect EP it relax and drift in and out of sleep with. This is a compliment as Jones manages to transcend space and time. No matter what state of mind you’re in all these tracks will make a lasting impression on you. This CD will not go in my “reviewed pile” rather it will go on my I-POD indefinitely. My favorite song is a toss-up between “Hope in a Bottle” and Early Morning Light.”The mix works and the somewhat dreamy precision and concentrated themes meshed with Jones’ clairvoyance makes for some top quality music. I kept waiting for a blemish or disappointing song to emerge – which never happened through to the end. Jiggley Jones is for real. It’s these types of artists that make it all the way to the top of our hearts.
