Armada, Paper Ghosts CD Review

Armada "Paper Ghosts" CD review by Ceci Redmann Whitehurst

Armada has released their official video, Callanwolde, the first off of the album "Paper Ghosts".  Power in every sense is a form of raw energy and that is exactly what Armada brings to the table.  Our dark romance is fueled with gritty guitar/vocals from front man Cody Paige and a crashing drum (Eddie Core) and bass (Jeremy Gruber) line that complements the torrential downpour.  Oliver Bukowsky's simplistic cinematography brought the Armada's love torchered lyrics to life.
Here's the Youtube video link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=z-sWX2TvvOo.

"Paper Ghosts" is the full-length debut release from LA-based indie rock trio, Armada. Cody Page (lead vocals/guitar), Eddie Core (drums) and Jeremy Gruber (bass/keyboards) seamlessly blend formal education with ragged inspirational bursts and backgrounds in rock, folk, and a bit of jazz. The result is a California masterpiece founded on truthfulness and a special brand of rock & roll urgency.

Review of Armada’s “Paper Ghost” CD   by Ceci Redmann Whitehurst

It is rare for me to like every song on an album, especially the first time listening to it. But this was my experience with the ten tracks on Armada’s “Paper Ghost” CD a few days ago. I’ve since been listening to this great indie rock band from Los Angeles in the car, at work, and at home. I am captivated by the vocals of Cody Page. His voice ranges from plaintive (without sounding too whiney) in “Love You” to ominous, and vengeful in Callonwolde. Page’s guitar playing is no less impressive in range and musicality (is that a word? I think so…). The drumming of Eddie Core is rock solid with high energy and awesome rhythm.  Jeremy Gruber plays bass with powerful and interesting progressions. The harmonies are fantastic and imaginative. In a nutshell the band is talented and tight. This is the kind of music FM Rock stations used to play - damn good music!

Armada’s Facebook page declares “Indie rock for thinkers and dancers”.
They got THAT right! It’s hard to sit or stand still while listening to the CD. And it’s hard to not think about the lyrics. “Ghost of Illinois?” “Bruises for breakfast?”…

Being human by nature, I must compare Armada to other bands. They have been compared to Wilco, Spoon, Radiohead, Queens of the Stone Age, and the Black Keys, among others. I also hear strains of Bush, Led Zeppelin, System of a Down, The Black Crowes, The Cramps, David Bowie, and even Neil Finn on “Pick Up the Pieces”. The lyrics vary from clever and meaningful, poetic, insightful, painfully honest, scary, to just plain intriguing.

Here are a few observations I noted about specific songs:

“Ghost of Illinois” - catchy beat, intro vocals have a retro feel with nice phrasing. Driving guitar, energetic. Memorable lines such as “being pulled up by the gravity that hovers over you.”

“Young Man” - drums remind me of Adam and the Ants. Lyrics are intriguing, clever. Catchy, pleasing vocals. Slows down, then a nice solo - guitar sounding like mandolin/balalaika - gypsy music with some psychedelic riffs. Some good advice to young and old alike: “You need to run before you fly.”

“Callanwolde” - vocals are expressive-hurt, pain, revenge, steely determination. Great guitar riffs. Interesting, fast paced bass lines. Drums accent the guitar and vocals very nicely. Note: Glad none of my ex-boyfriends had a tiger and a vendetta.

“Nevada” - slows down.  Probably my favorite song on the CD. Sparse instrumentation at first, with focus on vocals. Great drums-nice rim shots (I’m no drummer, but I THINK those are rim shots) … Led-Zeppelin influence, bluesy. Tight harmonies. Slide guitar has got a nice groove and a lot of soul. I feel their pain.

“Beacon St” -  one of my favorites, especially the lyrics:  “words they paralyze,” “I can’t believe it when I turn around and I see it, after all this time…your ghost between the sheets,” “Technicolor shadows start to creep all over me.”

“Badge & Gun” - fast paced, driving guitars and solid drums, with those appealing evocative vocals and rich harmonies. Descriptive imagery paints a picture. Tells a story, but leaves questions for you to ponder.

“Up, Out”- dark, but makes me smile. A little disturbing? Lines like: “justice likes to listen to the voices in your head…put the chainsaw back in Texas,”  “exclusive blues,”  “put this shit to bed.” I’d really like to know more about what inspired THAT song!!

“Pick Up the Pieces”- more great imagery with lyrics such as “that girl’s a dancer and she’s stomping on your heart.” Nice guitar riffs, usual rock steady bass and drums. Drums like a heartbeat. Bittersweet melancholic parts with just vocals and guitar

“Renaissance” -nice slide guitar. Bluesy. Powerful. Great drums.

“Love You” - opens with Guitar and vocals. Slow, sad…could easily make me cry, if I was having one of those days when I cry easily. Evokes remorse, regret, agony, deep love. Good rock ‘n roll moan. Atmospheric ending. More memorable lines:
“I’ve been listening so long to these dark little songs that control me”.
“Don’t want to waste no more time killing us slowly” (OUCH!)

One of the lines from “Beacon St” is “There’ll be no forgetting you”. I feel the same about Armada’s “Paper Ghost” CD and hope these talented indie rockers keep creating such awesome, high quality music.

More online information for Armada:
www.facebook.com/ArmadaForPresident

http://armada.bandcamp.com/
http://play.google.com/store/music/artist?id=A2lmhfx65jbxb26ae7rf3uokglm
http://myspace.com/ArmadaForPresident
http://reverbnation.com/ArmadaForPresident
http://thesixtyone.com/armada
http://cdbaby.com/armada
http://twitter.com/ArmadaTheBand

Thank You Sera, Ceci and Armada!!!

Jason Myles Goss "Radio Dial" CD review

Jason Myles Goss "Radio Dial"

www.jasonmylesgoss.com

Jason Myles Goss "Radio Dial" CD review by Cheryl Manzella.

Jason Myles Goss is a up and coming singer/songwriter who recently released a CD called "Radio Dial". Your fave blogger was happy to recieve a review copy. I was even happier when Cheryl Manzella agreed to review this great CD for me.

For those of you out there who don't who Cheryl is, she's Dan the Man's wife. Dan the Man is an accomplished singer/songwriter in the Buffalo N.Y. area. Dan currently sings for "55 Main" and has done many high profile gigs with the bands "City Streets" and "Forever Green".
Needless to say, Dan and Cheryl are both good friends of Joey Tell.
I'd like to Thank Cheryl for submitting her 2nd CD review for this blog.

OK on with the review...
"Into The Night" starts off "Radio Dial". "Into The Night" is a strong, upbeat song. A great song to kick off a music CD with.

The next song, "Heavy" has a sound that is immediately likeable. "Heavy" sounds like it could be right off of the Dire Straits album "Brothers In Arms".

"Lion's Mouth" is a song that tells a story. The music sets up a perfect ambiance and mood for Jason's story telling lyrics.

The 4th song, "Red Letter Man", is a catchy, melodic song that has a country music sound.

"Keep Your Love With Me" is a sweet and touching song. This song tells a story of a love that once was but is no longer. Jason shows his softer, more sensitive side on this track.

"Come Back To Me" is a heartfelt and emotional track.

"Chocolate Croissant" is a very enjoyable song that has a playful, fun loving feel and sound. A great singer/songwriter type of song.

"Dark Dark Winter" is a great sounding song. The music and lyrics have a great flow and feel, blending together to carry this song along very well.

"Black Lights" is a excellent song with great lyrical content. This song is about a boxer who had big dreams but couldn't rise to the occasion when his big opportunity came along.

"Hospital Shirt" is also a very good, well written song. The sound and feel is very melancholy but the lyrics are about a man who is rebelling against a debilitating disease. The subject is stuck in a "hospital shirt" and is desperate to leave it all behind even though he knows he cannot.


To find more about Jason Myles Goss Click on these links...
www.jasonmylesgoss.com
www.facebook.com/jasonmylesgoss

Thank You Sera, Jason and Cheryl!

(CD review was edited and slightly enhanced by Joey Tell)

Tracee Perrin "Providence" CD review

 

Check out my latest CD review for Los Angeles native Tracee Perrin's debut release "Providence"

http://voices.yahoo.com/tracee-perrin-providence-11689152.html

(I apologize, I will be fixing a couple of typo's as soon as I can edit the article.)

 

I really enjoyed Tracee's Providence CD. Tracee's soulful voice, emotional, honest lyrics and songwriting talents will take her far in the music world.  

To find out more about Tracee Perrin and her music click on these links...

http://www.traceeperrinmusic.com/_/Tracee_Perrin_Home.html

http://twitter.com/TraceePerrin

http://www.myspace.com/traceeperrin

http://www.reverbnation.com/traceeperrin

Tranzworld Express, Peter Westheimer

Video still from the Tranzworld Express song "Change Now"

Tranzworld Express CD review, Click on http://voices.yahoo.com/tranzworld-express-11626500.html and expand your mind!

Tranzworld Express CD cover

www.peterwestheimer.com

Michi "Where Your Heart Is" CD Review

Michi "Where Your Heart Is" CD Review

Michi's "Where Your Heart Is" features songs that could easily blend right in with the Top 40 music of today. Country pop fans will, no doubt, enjoy the opening tracks. Further along into the music is when I really started to appreciate Michi's talents as a talented singer and songwriter. Songs like "Enchanting Gazes Meeting" and "Darling" feature a smoky smooth side of Michi, creating a relaxing, sing along type atmosphere. "Darling" is a standout song, very nice!

The second song,"Where Your Heart Is" has a unique and individual sound that brings to mind a vision of an outside bar, with an ocean breeze flowing through the air, listening to Michi singing on the patio. I could easily hear this song being played on country Top 40 radio.

The seventh song on the CD, "He Said" stood out as it showcases Michi's vocals in a perfectly placed and controlled country yodel, only a very limited amount of young singers can do with this quality like Michi.

"The Best Of Me" is a well written, great song, simply sung sweetly.

"The Vibrant Flood" is another great song, one easy to imagine listening to on the radio, driving on down the road.

Writing, singing and young, Michi is a triple threat, "Pop Star" is written all over Michi.

A Great Big Thank You to Sera, Dan and Cheryl Manzella for reviewing the CD and Michi! 

Edited by Joe Tell.

King Washington "The Gears" CD Review

King Washington " The Gears" CD Review

This recording by King Washington has several high points, as well as a few slow moments, but overall it is a very pleasing recording.

King Washington takes “Beatlesque” harmonies to a new level, and the result is amazing. From the opening strains of the title track “The Gears”, to the fantastic song “Cotton”, this recording focuses on tight vocal harmonies and intricate guitar work that harkens back to the golden age of rock and roll recording.

Singing and performing on piano, trumpet, drums, guitar and bass, Gene Russell has been musically active since age four. Joined by guitarist/singers Tyson Kelly and George Krikes, the band stands apart from other new rock bands for several reasons. The first and foremost to me is that these guys sound like The Beatles in their prime. The better songs from this recording could easily fit on the classic albums Rubber Soul or Revolver; (My favorite Beatle period) while others may remind you of a Sgt. Peppers groove. I don’t mean to put pressure on a band with a comparison like that; it’s just the feel that I (and others) get from these songs. They don’t seem to imitate, replicate, or duplicate Beatles songs, but have the feel and the songwriting chops to pull it off. Their sound is tight yet ethereal, intricate but still hypnotic.

Now before I put them into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, there are a few boring clunkers on this CD; but the good songs (The Gears, Fourth of July, Cotton, Bawl and Change) clearly outweigh them and point this talented young band in a great direction. I was impressed by the production, songwriting, guitar work and those beautiful harmonies. A few more evocative rock numbers and this band will be seen and heard by a much larger audience.

Bud Redding 7/25/2012

Thank You Sera, Bud & King Washington!

Michi "Shivers"

The singer-songwriter's vast talents have not gone unnoticed in the music industry, she’s worked with seasoned musicians such as Grammy-award winner Steve Mitchell and Jazz guitarist Sheryl Bailey. With the release of “Where Your Heart Is” Michi exposes her honest songwriting skills, with a touch of Fiona Apple’s fluid honesty and Avril Lavigne stark attitude, which blend seamlessly with her unique voice.

Check out the video and download the free mp3 via sound-cloud.

Official Video "Shivers" http://youtu.be/jVdjpntchhE

MP3 "Shivers" http://soundcloud.com/mt-press/michi-shivers

More on Michi - http://www.musicbymichi.com

Tracee Perrin "Providence"

www.traceeperrinmusic.com

Photography: Marjorie Salvaterra  www.marjoriesalvaterra.com Denise Leitner www.deniseleitner.com 

Thank You Sera & Tracee!

Eddie Grey "The Love Thief Sessions"

9/19/12: CD review content update.

The Eddie Grey "The Love Thief Sessions" CD is better than I expected it to be. It has all different styles of music on it. It starts off with a great reggae song called " Just Say It". The next song is a cool rockin' song called "Hideaway". "The Love Thief Sessions" has a song for everybody reggae, funk, acoustic, rock and rhythm and blues. I like "The Love Thief Sessions" and would recommend giving it a listen. A new artist bringing some great new music. Check out his facebook site for more info https://www.facebook.com/pages/Eddie-Grey/126232640723034

CD review by The Professor.

Thank You Rob, Sera and Eddie!

 

 

Eddie Grey is an ever evolving artist that continues to defy genre classification by consistently producing music that is both impressive and eclectic. The newest single “Only On The Weekend” is a subtle, pop-infused jam that is reminiscent of a sunny day lounging by the pool. It’s the perfect background to a hot July day, with Eddie’s smooth vocals gliding over a slow-molasses style beat, the guitar fluid as a summer breeze making a track that the repeat button was designed for.

The bridge builds to an electrifying guitar solo, backed by the ever swaying bass that keeps you moving from beginning to finish.  It tells the story of a love kept secret that is intensified by Grey’s talent at crafting lyrically seductive songs.  All the elements combined together for an effortlessly sexy song that is a distinct new direction for the progressive Grey. “Only On The Weekend” is another hit for Eddie Grey, a mainstream sound mixed with the unique signature touch that Grey adds to every track, makes for a laid-back, listener-friendly track that is sure to attract a whole new group of fans.  

Download the free MP3 and share via soundcloud

www.soundcloud.com/mt-press/eddie-grey-only-on-the-weekend

www.eddiegreymusic.com

www.twitter.com/EddieGrey8

www.facebook.com/EddieGreyMusic

Jon Jonsson "Wait For Fate"

www.jonjonssonmusic.com

Empire Of One

www.empireofone.net

www.facebook.com/empireofone

www.rockforhumanrights.org

Jason Myles Goss "Radio Dial"

Jason Myles Goss "Radio Dial" CD art.
www.jasonmylesgoss.com
www.facebbok.com/jasonmylesgoss

Tranzworld Express, Peter Westheimer, MT Press

Tranzworld Express

www.peterwestheimer.com

Change Now

Dancing Hearts Orchestra

Chances Of Life

Virtually Enlightened

i-Ran

liner notes.

Karma Than Chaos

Tranzworld Express

China India

Renewable Energy

Ghosts Of The Future

liner notes. 

www.peterwestheimer.com

Thank You Sera!

Armada "Paper Ghosts", MT Press, Facebook, Callie Giovanna

Armada "Paper Ghosts" CD artwork.

www.facebook.com/armadaforpresident

Armada For President!

Armada consists of: Cody Page, Vocals and Guitar, Nick Champeau, Guitar, Keys and Backing Vocals, Jeremy Gruber, Bass, Keys and Backing Vocals and Eddie Score, Drums, Percussion and Backing Vocals.

CD cover photo by Callie Giovanni www.calliegiovanna.com

The liner notes can be double clicked on for legibility purposes, Goto www.armada-band.com to find out more about Armada. Armada For President!

Once Again, Thank You Sera.

King Washington "The Gears", MT Press

"The Gears"

King Washington

www.kingwashingtonmusic.com

I like King Washingtons "The Gears" CD art. It's way cool!

CD credits and CD song list.

2012 Beneath the Cabbage Records  

www.kingwashingtonmusic.com

Thank You Sera!

                                             

                                                   

Michi, MT Press

Michi returns fresh of the success of her first single from her debut album “Where Your Heart Is” with the bubbly and exciting second single “Warrior.” The song highlights the strength of Michi’s unique voice, a tender yet electrifying sound infused throughout, finding quite the departure from the stark attitude she usually exudes. It’s a romantic and optimistic lyrical ode to the way standing together through every up and down makes not only the relationship stronger, but yourself.  Intensified by the blues-y and crisp electric guitar, Michi defines herself in the power behind her words, heartfelt and full of crystal clear imagery that pulls the listener in and keeps them captivated through every rushing chorus until the final chord is played. “Warrior” is a song that’s sure to attract a new audience, while still holding the attention of those that have already discovered this young, new talent.

 

Free MP3 of "Warrior" via SounCloud.com

www.soundcloud.com/mt-press/michi-warrior

More On Michi - www.reverbnation.com/musicbymichi 

Thank You Sera and Michi!

Tracee Perrin, MT Press

Los Angeles native, Tracee Perrin has been exposed to different cultures and ways of living that have influenced and elevated her music, allowing her to breathe refreshing authenticity into each track on her Debut EP "Providence." The EP was live tracked and produced by Daniel Dempsey (Rod Stewart, Chris Duran) and mastered by Mark Chalecki (veteran of Capitol Records with credits for Plain White T's, Red Hot Chili Peppers and Pat Benatar), it explores socially conscious themes in an honest yet still hopeful and concise way. Her skills as a songwriter strip back just enough veneer to make her music beyond genuine and she is an expert at embracing her emotions, channeling them through unabashed sentiment.

The stand-out title track "Providence," a song about escaping what binds you to your past for the freedom of self-expression, the drums roll like a train over steel tracks as her lyrics carry you through the story. Mixed with the languidly fun strum of the guitar, she paints a whimsical picture of what it's like to let go, using her soaring vocals to speak fearlessly, "I am not running away/ I'm just looking for a change." The fluidity of the mix and the tale behind the story makes the listener want to continue the journey with her. With "Prince of Pride" her vocals float effortlessly, with beautifully weary resignation, backed by a barroom piano and a heartbreaking string accompaniment filling the space in the silence that's left. A song in which you can feel the sense of urgency for change in the world and Perrin's heart is emblazoned boldly in the gentle rifts and soaring heights of her voice. On "One Cry", a bittersweet ballad that points out the unforgivable flaws in a relationship, Perrin remains the epitome of dignity and grace, despite a loss of hope in the lesson of love. With a lush and tender vocal spread over a hollow and sparse piano chord progression, her lyrics are heartbreakingly truthful, showing her skills as talented and honest songwriter. Her music stays away from any surface symbolism, instead focusing on the honesty in the lyrics, building an undeniable EP of substance mingled with hopefulness and consistently strong material.

Fans of the soulful qualities of Sara Bareilles, Jewel, and Joss Stone will appreciate the release of Tracee Perrin's debut album "Providence."

More On Tracee Perrin

www.traceeperrinmusic.com

Tracee's Facebook page

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Tracee-Perrin-Music/110052009049857

For a free mp3 download of "Providence" goto

http://soundcloud.com/mt-press/tracee-perrin-providence

Eddie Grey, MT Press

Eddie Grey is known as a musician that takes hold of artistic expression and never allows himself to be boxed in to one genre or sound. On his previous release "The Love Thief" with the Eddie Grey band he created an eclectic and unique album that transcended boundaries and genres, for a raw feel full of love-stricken lyrics. Now, Eddie heads out on his own taking only his remarkable songwriting  skills and his guitar, for a project all his own. His newest venture is an upcoming acoustic album, a sobering and reflective EP that’s due out later this year, capturing Eddie’s pure and honest songwriting in a way that leaves all emotion exposed and tugs gently at your heartstrings.

“Say You Will” is the first preview of what’s to come from the acoustic project. It is a gentle and subdued take on a desperate love song, the lyrics a hopeful plea for love, it’s both uplifting and uncertain. Eddie Grey’s unabashed emotion is apparent in the no-frills vocals, soft and understated; he stands alone and vibrant on this listless and heartfelt track. The beautifully filmed video fits in perfectly with the theme of the song, Eddie standing strong as the focal point in a decidedly unpretentious atmosphere, it’s conversational tone showcasing the struggle to find each other between a man and a woman in love.  Fans of Eddie Grey will love this stripped down sound, finding the thriving and electric energy that he posses with each project is still wrapped up in every track, starting with the stand-out single “Say You Will.”


Check out and download "Say You Will" via soundcloud
www.soundcloud.com/mt-press/eddie-grey-say-you-will
Official Video "Say You Will"
www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNzv6c9L2Kw&feature=channel&list=UL
For More on Eddie Grey goto
www.eddiegreymusic.com

Thank You Sera and Eddie!

Jon Jonsson

Jon Jonsson's newest single is “Lately,” a soulful and sunny track that highlights the talents that make Jon the distinctive musician and songwriter he is. “Lately” is a sweet and romantic song, peppered with compliments to an unforgettable crush, the lyrics are the love letter in song form that every woman wishes she could receive. Jon’s dizzying pop hooks are made authentic when mixed with the smooth licks of blues-inspired electric guitar and the ever present summer-y beat.  His warm vocals splash over the melody, endearing and raw, his voice remains the brightest element of the song. It has hints of John Mayer’s and Allen Stone's soulful style and the sugary infused pop of Gavin Degraw, making it a perfect track for those summer days on the sand.

An Icelandic native, Jon Jonsson has been working tirelessly to bring his bubbly and infectious debut album, “Wait For Fate,” to the States this summer. After graduating from Boston University, Jon’s focus shifted to the completion of this album off the success of his first four Icelandic singles (“Lately,” “Kiss in the Morning,” “When You’re Around” and “Sooner or Later”), which have all made it to the top 30 on Icelandic radio.  With songs that take you on a dizzying, love-drunk journey through the honeymoon phase of any relationship, his depth and range make each one of his songs a must listen. Just last week, Jon was named “Best Singer” at the FM957 2012 People’s Choice Awards, a respected honor in the Icelandic music industry, where he is the #1 selling artist on iTunes over the likes of Adele and Amy Winehouse.

To find out more about Jon Jonsson goto Jon's website:
www.jonjonssonmusic.com

Thank You Sera and Jon!

Empire Of One, MT Press

Wil Seabrook's band Empire of One’s newest single “Better Than,” the second release off of their self-titled debut album “Empire of One.” A heartening and romantic track about the willingness to fight for the right person, the lyrics lend themselves to the melodic piano, layered on top of the genuine and raw warmth that lead vocalist and frontman Wil Seabrook brings to every song. It’s a sweet cascade of emotions, wrapped around the budding and electrifying guitar riffs (Luke Thomas) and understated fills of drums (Alexander E. Gonzalez ), and bass (Darwin Johnson) for an insightful ballad that is sure to draw you in upon first listen.

Wil Seabrook, the founder of Empire of One, is a dedicated musician that has had many years of experience in the industry. Wil’s accomplishments cover a vast landscape of projects, including previously being signed to a major label deal with Maverick, and touring extensively throughout the US and Europe with bands like Sister Hazel and Dave Matthews. The search for his ideal sound led him to work with producers like Lior Goldenberg (Sheryl Crow/Macy Gray) and to appear as a stellar performer and contestant on the first seasons of Rock Star INXS. Each new experience in the industry led him to form Empire of One, using his knowledge and a combination of the sounds that have inspired him over the years to create their dynamic debut EP “Empire of One.” The album delivers carefully crafted pop songs that show an incredible sense of melody, with the same building choruses and emotional lyricism that one would find in the music of the iconic band U2, as well as radio friendly The Fray and The Script.

Check out the track "Better Than" and download the free Free MP3 via soundcloud. 

www.soundcloud.com/mt-press/empire-of-one-better-than

Website - 

www.empireofone.net

Facebook - 

www.facebook.com/empireofone

Thank You Sera and Empire Of One!