Jetty Rae is a singer and songwriter originally from Northern Michigan. She released her first full-length album, ‘Blackberries’, in 2007; her first EP, ‘Nobody’, in November 2009; and a lullaby album, ‘La La Lu and the Lazy Moon’, in July 2011. Her album ‘Drowning in Grain’ was released in February 2012 (peaking at #130 on the CMJ 200 charts), ‘Climbing Clouds’ in August of 2013, followed by a Christmas album ‘More Than December’ in November of 2014. 2015 saw Jetty’s first collaborative project under the moniker ‘Pen Pals’ with the release of the album ‘Gold’. Jetty garnered the attention of JetBlue when she played at the opening of their new Terminal at JFK International Airport. MTV. com interviewed Jetty for their ‘Needle In The Haystack’ series, and her song ‘I Love You’ was selected as a free download and featured on their up-and-coming artist blog. Jetty Rae shared the stage with Sarah McLachlan and Miranda Lambert at Lilith Fair in Detroit where she was handpicked by Sarah McLachlan and Terry McBride as the featured local artist. Jetty’s music has also been used in a number of TV commercials for brands such as Microsoft, PetCo, Truvia, Nabi Tablets and more.
Jetty has released her new single ‘Queen of the Universe’ off her first full-length album in four years, ‘Can’t Curse The Free’. This sultry soulful track is packed with passionate darkened swagger and attitude. Its a fiery dangerous smothering sensual track oozing feminine power and dominance. Strong bold vocals lay down the law with sizzling red hot soulful tones and sass. Its a luring dangerously smoking smoulder that burns with intensity. The soft coaxing beat teamed with sticky licks on guitar create a sway-like flow. Jetty’s compelling vocals hold the main centre point of the track, it pushes you into submission with such ease, like she used alcohol and luring steamy distraction to get what she wants. Determined striking chords on guitar are an empowering nod to women everywhere. This track gives an image of a powerful dangerous woman with the world in her hands.
Stream ‘Queen of the Universe’ below
Bad Sounds are a five piece indie band from Bath. They have recently released their new song ‘Wages’ which follows on from their previous single, ‘Avalanche. ‘Wages’ was debuted as Annie Mac’s Hottest Record In The World and the band recently supported Rat Boy on his UK Tour as well as turning heads at a variety of festivals during the summer. Despite the lyric of the song complaining about working hard but not being paid enough, there’s a feel good sound and groove to the track. This colourful vibrant track splashes exuberant instrumentals against dreary vocals creating a simple yet effective contrast. The sweep of lavish percussion and rich textures give the track a strutting prance and flamboyance that is infectious. Brimming with triumphal trumpet features, spring-like bouncing rhythms and even a bit of country twang,this soul-infused anthem is a joyous mixed delight of blissful euphoria. Bad Sounds lift our spirits as they give us a tune to strut down the street to when things are glum and you feel moody. So don’t sulk, groove to this infectious swagger laden deliriously happy track.
Watch the video for ‘Wages’ below
London-based singer-songwriter Chris Jewell has released ‘Rise and Fall’, the lead single from his new EP of the same name. A songwriter since the age of 12, Jewell’s songs draw on influences from pop, rock and soul across the decades. After signing with independent label 84 Records his new EP and single was recorded with talented producer Andy Brook (Frank Turner, Status Quo, Hayseed Dixie), who brings a radio-friendly pop sheen to Jewell’s tale of heartbreak. The new track has already picked up support with BBC Introducing, and was recently chosen twice as a BBC Radio Surrey/Sussex Track Of The Day. ‘Rise and Fall’ is a slice of sweet bright folk pop pie. With soulful bright guitar and springy bounce beat this track is an uplifting , energetic “put a smile on your face” bliss. Illuminating and glowing from every note with simple chords and catchy clap along feature its a snappy encouraging track. Though the lyrics are somewhat sombre the track is presented with a positive atmosphere and sprightly energy. Sprinkled with Jewell’s smooth soulful vocals and rapid almost rap -like lyrics and immediately infectious chorus Jewell showcases his skill for simple, blissful and timeless songwriting.
Stream ‘Rise and Fall’ below
Toronto-based Soul/Pop band Gold Complex have released a video for their single ‘Backbone’alongside a deluxe edition of their debut, self-titled EP. Gold Complex fuse classic soul with pop and R&B into a fresh sound that is all their own. This dynamic octet has built a strong fanbase in Canada, headlining renowned venues such as Lee’s Palace, The Rivoli, Mod Club and the Horseshoe Tavern. Their debut self-titled EP was released in April last year and their first two singles ‘Tread On Me’ and ‘Backbone’ received regular rotation on radio nationwide and were featured on the Nickelodeon television series, Open Heart, now on Netflix. ‘Backbone’ is a smooth sensual, funky tune about the conviction of “saying what you mean and meaning what you say, especially when it comes to a relationship”. Velvety warm vocals kicks off the track in a soulful passionate manner. With steamy jazzy brass and gentle supple beat teamed with flexible coaxing bass this track lays the smooth talk on thick. Its agile easy -moving sleekness can sweep you into a stupor as you are sweet talked and wooed by the suave vocals and nifty slick piano. This track is a saucy cheeky track exuding sass with classy swagger.
Gold Complex are currently in the studio recording their debut full length album “New Soul”, set for release in April 2017.
Watch the video for ‘Backbone’ below
Paul Dunbar, formerly of Liverpool 6-piece soul/rock/blues act The Midnight Ramble, has self released his debut single ‘Barely Holding On’. The single was created with producers Marc Joy (Oasis, Primal Scream) and Paul Thompson (Ellen & The Escapades). Dunbar is recording with the newly formed Black Winter Band, Tom Cowley (Drums,Percussion,Vocals) and Callum Williams (Bass,Keys,Vocals) complete the lineup. ‘Barely Holding On’ is a warm melodic track wrapped in charming country tones and drizzled with rock elements. The passionate raspy soulful vocals and catchy sway along melody teamed with soothing mellow guitar and a steady spongy beat gives the track a bright cosy yet nostalgic and emotional tone. This track is a sweet sounding tuneful bundle of passion with tender lyrics and a sweet reminiscent tone on guitar that is thought provoking like a fond distant memory that twinkles around your mind but to far to recall fully. Paul Dunbar & The Black Winter Band have a London launch show on Fri 28 Oct at The Century Club, Soho with promoter Success Express Music.
Singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Marga Lane has released the first single ‘Thinking About You’ off her upcoming EP, ‘Undressed’. When New Yorker Marga Lane graduated from Berklee College of Music in Boston she moved to Los Angeles to further pursue a career as a professional recording artist and songwriter. In 2015 she began compiling what would be her most ambitious and personal project to date, a five-track story of love and loss. Lane has found success touring throughout the US including performing at fashion weeks and singing the national anthem at over 10 NBA and MLB games. She has enjoyed the support from popular recording stars and industry veterans including Lance Bass who featured her on his SiriusXM radio show “Dirty Pop”. ‘Thinking About You’ “is a celebration of love in its truest form, a new relationship and the hope and bliss that accompany it”. Its a sweet romantic delicate track that is bursting with warm bright tones and blissfulness, Simply portrayed with an upbeat jazz style guitar that will warm your very soul and brighten any day. Its a light daydream track that is floating on a fluffy cloud of joy. Lane’s vocals glow in a Motown style as she perfectly displays her cheery emotions in a voice that is immaculate and captivating. The candied luscious backing vocals blend effortlessly with the main vocals and give this track a flawless beautiful charm. With a bounce guitar pluck this track is uplifting and oh so heavenly to listen to.
Looking forward to hearing the EP ‘Undressed’ which is set for release December 2nd, 2016 worldwide.
Stream ‘Thinking About You’ below
The Chris Paterno Band are a seven -piece indie-pop-soul band from New York. They are releasing their self titled EP on 30th September and we were lucky enough to have a listen to it. The EP begins with ‘Unfaithful’ a peppy track with bouncy percussion and groovy beat that is sure to have you bopping along. The Chris Paterno Band waste no time in introducing their golden horn feature which lifts the track adding a refreshing and zesty texture. The raspy soulful vocals add warm tones to the track and a balmy feel. ‘Morning Light’ is a sweet delicate track with a creamy supple melody. Its an elegant ray of sunshine, fragile yet warm and soft. With tender vocals to start this track is relaxing with a sway-like catchy chorus, its perfect for sunny evenings. The horns are subtle and the beat has a tribal feel with the guitar taking strength and presenting us with a beautifully graceful accompaniment. The track builds becoming a little more intense vocally while still holding that dainty atmosphere. ‘Pressure’ follows with its groovy strut worthy sound. We reviewed this track earlier this year. Its swanky persona and swagger filled chorus makes this track a cool sassy example of the diversity of The Chris Paterno Band. ‘Lover, When You Gonna Come?’ presents itself with an air of country twang upon the honeyed lilt of harmonica from the start and throughout. The instrumentation paints a fantastic picture as they sound like a train chugging gently with the horns appearing as the toot toot. This track once again is aglow with bright tones and hopeful vibes. ‘Farther (…we grow)’ is a sensitive track with vocals filled with raw emotion and melancholy tones. The guitar features dramatic sombre strums with a light twinkle on piano. Its a tear- jerker that evokes feelings of sorrow and despair and self reflection. ‘Sweet Thing’ finishes this EP on a sweep of lavish percussion and rich textures with experimentation of auto tune on vocals and their signature luxurious horns. Its infectiously swayable and catchy, watch out for that deep bass vocal at the end.
This EP is a unique venture as The Chris Paterno Band present us with a rich lacquer of satisfying melodies and textures in their own unique style.
You can pre-order the EP at http://chrispaternomusic.com/ and the iTunes Store. 20% of sales will be donated to Project HOME and The Episcopal Academy’s Kennith R Balsley Memorial Fund.
Stream ‘Morning Light’ below
The Chris Paterno Band are a seven -piece indie-pop-soul band from New York. The band pull together elements of rock, soul, blues, and folk music to create their unique sound. They have released their new single, ‘Pressure’ which is the third release from their debut, self-titled EP due for release in late 2016.
‘Pressure’ is a groovy strut worthy track that exudes a stylish swanky persona while maintaining a cool smooth sensual tone that is captivating. The velvety vocals are coaxing for the verse then become more dynamic and soulful for the chorus. This track has a classy flamboyance to it with glimpses of cheeky sass. The horns add a rich luxurious texture to the track and give us a big band feel while the groovy rhythm adds a flexible quality. The guitar is soft and mellow and warms up the track adding a subtle glow of passion and spirit. ‘Pressure’ is a juicy multi textural track to sink your teeth into.
Stream ‘Pressure’ below
Our Worth A Listen Track This Week Comes From The Sensational Earl
Alaska born singer and songwriter Earl has released the video for her new single ‘I Love You’. The video ’ was shot in our very own beautiful surroundings of Careville Castle, in Tullamore. Born in the remote town of Anchorage, Earl grew up singing gospel in her local church choir and then moved to Los Angeles aged 18 to develop her sound, Earl currently resides in London pursuing her musical ambitions. She has already been championed by the BBC Introducing and her first independent release has been playlisted at Radio 2. Earl has signed a record deal with BMG record label and is now currently working on her debut album which is set for release in early 2017. We have chosen ‘I Love You’ to be our Worth A Listen Track this week. ‘I Love You’ glows with a sweet smooth melody and sway – like quality that is uplifting and radiant. This track is beaming with glittering guitar and a bouncing bubbly beat that you can’t help but groove to. Earl’s vocals are warm and soulful with a slight rasp at times adding depth and texture to the track. With its infectious chorus and feel good vibes this song wraps you in a marshmallow of sweet honest goodness that is just blissful. ‘I Love You’ gives a summers evening “al fresco” feel, glass of wine in hand laid back and relaxed while also giving a 60’s slow swing atmosphere that will give you the urge to grab someone and dance. Earl exudes charm and swagger with a charisma that is gentle and magnetic. The light percussion adds bounce while the guitar illuminates the track before finishing with a “cha cha cha”
Watch the video for ‘I Love You’ below
Harbouring Oceans are an alternative Pop, Art Rock band from Kilkenny. The band consist of Dan Pearson (Guitar/Lead Vocals), Geoff Warner-Clayton (Keys/Vocals), Benedict Warner-Clayton (Drums), Ken Farrell (Bass) and Thomas Donoghue (Lead Guitar). The five-piece released their debut single, ‘Enso’ in May this year. It is the first release from a band who’s members have been playing together in different projects for over a decade and finally after years of experimenting with their sound across Ireland in some of the country’s biggest venues and festivals, Harbouring Oceans was born in December 2015. ‘Enso’ is a tender emotive track tightly packed in a soulful stirring melody and bound with deep rhythmic grooves. Pearson’s vocals are clear and exude raw passionate emotion with lush close harmony in backing vocals that adds a delicate and dainty quality to the track. ‘Enso’ begins in a soft ambient manner that builds as the song progresses. The light piano feature adds grace and elegance to this beautiful track. The guitars interweave through the music and teamed with the groove of the bass give elasticity to track which adds a flexible sway -like quality. Harbouring Oceans have found a blend of soulful, sensual, raw emotional music that evokes your senses and touches your soul.
Watch out for these guys.
Stream ‘Enso’ below
Indie: (n) an obscure form of rock which you only learn about from someone slightly more hip than yourself.
