Browsing Tag

journey

Be a (Bar)Fly on the Wall with Jude & The Strangers’ Standout Single Beggar’s Tavern

Posted on 10 April 2024

vhttps://youtu.be/lkQ5-JY2qsQ?si=_iyY6k5qhmczSu_v

Some tracks ensnare you with hooks, others dig to the depths of your soul; Beggar’s Tavern by Jude & The Strangers dug into the trenches of the latter camp.

Imagine sinking beers with Bukowski, drinking in the sanctifying feeling of listening to Journey, experiencing the panoramically artistic gravitas of Father John Misty, and getting your blues rock licks as a courtesy of the Black Keys simultaneously, then you’ll get an idea of what this era-spanning Tour De Force delivers.

With all the infectious charisma of Jim Jones himself, singer-songwriter Aiden Jude doesn’t just command attention, he drenches his work in kinetic emotion. With a sonic iteration of a borstal breakout to conclude the single, it’s safe to say we’re beyond desperate to hear the rest of the Beggar’s Tavern LP which will arrive in May 2023. The New Jersey music scene won’t know what has hit it after the launch.

Beggar’s Tavern is now available to stream on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Western Skies delivered lyrical virtues to live by in their kaleidoscope of 60s and 70s rock nostalgia, Always Another Song.

Posted on 24 February 2024

Western Skies’ latest single, Always Another Song masterfully revives the golden era of rock, blending 60s and 70s energy with a modern flair while proving no sonic cocktail is more potent than arcanely uplifting vocal harmonies and raw rock riffs. The Journey-esque chord progressions instantly pull you into the soul of the release before Western Skies show their genre-fluid stripes through their fusion of classic rock, funk and cosmically orchestral instrumentation.

Lyrically, ‘Always Another Song’ offers a refreshing optimism, countering today’s often pessimistic narratives. Phrases like “it doesn’t always have to be as hard as we make it out to be” and “it doesn’t always have to be absolutely everything or nothing” resonate with balance and positivity.

Make the lyrics your mantra while making the band’s debut LP, Awake In Dream, a playlist staple, and you’ll bolster your resilience in an era that is infinitely harder on the psyche than in the 60s and 70s where Western Skies find their folk and rock roots.

It’s an essential listen for classic rock enthusiasts and those seeking music with soul and depth alike. Join them for the ride; you won’t regret it.

Always Another Song is now available to stream on YouTube.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Nate Ridgeway romantically reinvented the 80s rock aesthetic with ‘Here I Fall’

Posted on 6 December 2023

Nate Ridgeway romantically reinvented the 80s rock aesthetic with the standout single, Here I Fall, from his double LP, The Emancipation of the Heart. The seminal single has already racked up over 71k streams on Spotify alone. From the very first hit it is evident why people struggle to part ways with the inexplicably superlative track which will cause your serotonin levels to spike as you lose yourself in the dreamy harmonies which blend effortlessly well into the colourfully rich choral atmosphere of the single.

Here I Fall effortlessly reignites the spirit of 80s rock, infusing it with Ridgeway’s unique blend of pop-rock and R&B influences. This sonic tapestry evokes the essence of iconic bands like Boston, Journey, and Foreigner, making it a perfect addition to playlists that celebrate the golden era of rock music.

Ridgeway, hailing from Muscle Shoals, brings a distinct authenticity to his music, drawing on the legendary musical heritage of the region. His double LP showcases his talent for crafting songs that resonate with listeners; produced and engineered by Eric Myers of Sonic Boost in Raleigh, NC, this record is a testament to Ridgeway’s commitment to quality and his passion for music. For those looking to rekindle their love for classic rock or discover its timeless charm, Here I Fall is a must-listen.

Stream Here I Fall on Spotify and keep up to date with Nate Ridgeway’s latest sonic ventures via Facebook.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

Mario Vayne put the power in pop rock with his debut single, Baby

Posted on 1 September 2023

If you take your classic rock with a pop twist, the debut single, Baby, from the Queensland-hailing singer-songwriter and guitar virtuoso Mario Vayne efficaciously hits the anthemic spot. There isn’t a stadium on Earth that Vayne couldn’t fill with his boundlessly powerful vocals that could charge a national grid.

With as much passion as I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing by Aerosmith, the serpentine rhythmics of White Snake, and Journey-esque melodic hooks, Baby is a triumphant Tour De Force for the solo artist who cut his teeth fronting various rock outfits in the UK and Australia. Between the 70s rock nostalgia and contemporary production stylings lingers Vayne’s tendency to make everything he vocally touches turn to euphonic gold. If this isn’t the start of a promising solo career, I don’t know what is.

Stream Baby on Spotify now.

Review by Amelia Vandergast

‘Killer Whales’ from Danish multidisciplinary musician Denni Ian is a deep journey into the waters of the world

Posted on 8 November 2020

‘Killer Whales‘ from Danish multidisciplinary musician Denni Ian is a deep journey into the waters of the world and this is a song that will splash right into your tired soul.

With a full debut album ‘The Sad Saint of South End‘ on the way on the 13th November, this is an exciting time for an artist who thinks like no other.

Brand new single ‘Killer Whales‘ from the the deep Denni Ian is a transcendent track, one made with such class and intricate details that will fascinate you. This is an indie journey through the waters of this crazy time. This is a different type of song, so original and the lo-fi soundscape make you wonder about many things,

You will be lost in the music and this will calm your mind. A new single that will inspire all those who think their music sound sound the same and everyone else. Be yourself, life is too short for anything else.

Click here for the Spotify link to hear more.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

Tahoe’s Nick LaBella drops journey-filled debut song ‘California’

Posted on 26 October 2020

Tahoe’s Nick LaBella drops debut song ‘California‘ and this is a lovely listen. With indie-folk love and stories attached, this is a song to pay full attention to.

With percussion and digital processing added to his vocals and guitar, its always good to have an extra little boost, Nick creates a signature sound that is sure to be warmly received all over the world. Burnt out after a successful career in the Corporate world, Nick decided that he needed a change. A new start which has music at the core. Being happy is so important.

Nick LaBella is quite inspiring on his debut song ‘California‘. The Tahoe-based musician shows us his journey here. He writes and plays a multi-generational & eclectic mix of folk, blues, rock and pop. Nick draws on a wide range of musical inspiration that touches the soul and warms the heart. This is the story of the underdog, driving southbound to find the next gig. With simmering vocals, Nick LaBella is quite brilliant on‘California‘.

Click here for the Soundcloud link.

Reviewed by Llewelyn Screen

CharLeon’s Latest Release Takes Listeners On A Journey

Posted on 23 November 2017

Hans Christian Anderson once said, “Where words fail, music speaks.” No listeners know this better than the ones attending raves and filling dancefloors for the chance to share an energetic session of dancing and feeling without the need for greater cultural contexts or interpersonal discussions. CharLeon answers the call and his prepared with more than your average dance beat with his song Journey. This song attempts an expression of exuberance incarnate, and it may just make it happen once the speakers start pumping.

The introduction gives us the faintest hint of vocal samples and prepares the listener for a standard pop hit with tinges of electronica. But once the bright pianos are accompanied by thunderous kicks, we know we’re in store for much more. The colorful lead synth and razor sharp basslines command the scene and only allow interludes for playful and bluesy piano lines that help break things up before the next intense climax. It’s a familiar format but it’s used because it works. This isn’t looking to cross into new boundaries; it’s a celebration of where we are and a reminder to enjoy the moment. CharLeon certainly knows how to take the listener on a Journey.