Showing posts with label Indie Music Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Indie Music Reviews. Show all posts

1/24/2021

Crossover Prog Review: Lunatic Soul-Through Shaded Woods (Deluxe Edition)

Release Date: November 13 2020

Label: Kscope

Website

Lunatic Soul was founded in 2008 in Warsaw, Poland, and to date, has released 7 studio albums, from the debut, Lunatic Soul in 2008 up to the album under review here, Through Shaded Woods earlier this year. Lunatic Soul is the creative vehicle for Marius Duda, the vocalist, and bassist for the Polish band, Riverside.


Through Shaded Woods is available as a single CD, a 2CD deluxe edition, as well as in vinyl and digital versions. The review is based on the deluxe version of the release.

Through Shaded Woods (Deluxe Edition) has 8 tracks and a total running time of just over 72 minutes (72:27) with the final track, “Transition II,” the longest at 27:45 minutes and the penultimate track, “Hylophobia” the shortest at just over 3 minutes (3:20).


Although being aware of both Riverside and Lunatic Soul and having featured tracks from Riverside on my radio show, I had never managed to “get into” Lunatic Soul releases, and I approached the review of Through Shaded Woods with no real expectations.

Regular readers of my reviews will be aware that I put a great deal of value on the opening track of releases, and am always looking for a hook, an amazing riff, basically something that “grabs your ears and shouts, Listen.”. Enter track 1 of this album, “Navvie” (4:03) and we find exactly what I am looking for. Obviously, folk-based and immersed in the more Nordic/Scandinavian folk arena, "Navvie” has a repetitive riff that becomes almost shamanic and in just over 4 minutes has succeeded in drawing the listener into a stunning mesmeric aural landscape.

Track 6, "The Fountain" (6:04), starts with a simple acoustic guitar, then Marius’s clear vocals take the track on and a piano appears in the background before moving to center stage. This is a beautiful, melodic track that flows along, carrying the listener along with it. As the song progresses there is the addition of some amazingly symphonic orchestration. Around the 4:40 minute point, there is a change to leave the piano theme to carry the track to its finale. This is another superb track from a stunning album.

The final track, “Transitions II” (27:45) is a real epic in terms of length and is a simply wonderful working and reworking of riffs and themes, reminiscent of Mike Oldfield. The original “Transitions” appears on Lunatic Soul II and initially, the opening of "Transitions II" harks back to this 2010 release. The additional instrumentation starts to suggest a change of direction and indeed, around the 4-minute mark, the “fuzzy” guitar starts the track moving into the realms of the aforementioned Mike Oldfield. For several minutes this style is maintained before moving into the sphere of New Age music, carrying the listener along with a minimalist soundscape style. The music is melodic, gentle, and intensely relaxing, before another change in style and direction nudging the 18-minute point when the piano takes on more responsibility and the other instrumentation washes in and out again, continuing the painting of an aural soundscape of gentleness, but different to that which had gone before. The track almost stops around the 21-minute mark and a very different picture comes into focus. The breathy vocals, or to be more correct, vocalizations, from Marius, float over an acoustic guitar theme and there is again a return to the folk area prevalent in “Navvie." This carries on until around 24:30 minutes when an ethereal choral section seems to appear, with an acoustic guitar theme in the background before the final section which harks back in time to a Gregorian chant before slowly fading away.

Through Shaded Woods is a superb release and well worth checking out. As I suggested early in this review, despite being aware of Lunatic Soul, I was not “into” the solo work of Marius. This album has changed my mind and I will now be revisiting the previous releases with more interest. Through Shaded Woods demands a place in many peoples’ CD collections, so grab a listen and see what you think

Jim “The Ancient One “ Lawson Prog Rock Music Talk Staff
January 22, 2021
 

Tracks:

1. Navvie (4:03)
2. The Passage (8:57)
3. Through Shaded Woods (5:51)
4 Oblivion (5:03)
5 Summoning Dance (9:52)
6. The Fountain (6:04)
7. Vyraj (5:32)
8. Hylophobia (3:20)
9. Transition II (27:45)

 

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1/22/2021

Rock Review: The Catholic Girls-Rock N’ Roll School For Girls

Release Date: November 6, 2020

Label: JSP Records

Website

Hailing from my home state of New Jersey, The Catholic Girls burst onto the rock n’ roll scene in the early ‘80s. Causing all kinds of controversy and uproar in their music, the group never really gained national momentum. However, they were able to garner enough attention along the coast and turn heads. Even the catholic church within Rhode Island decided to ban them from performing at several functions. Rock n’ Roll School For Girls finds root in the modern era that could prepare this band for an epic revitalization of their lifetime.

The Catholic Girls pack a wild punch in this remastered collection of provocative hits. They return more than 15 years later from their last release, to reintroduce themselves to the masses that the world was possibly not ready for. In a not-so-politically-correct, modern world; the band may have more success amongst varying age groups who align with angst-like, rebellion rock. On this two-disc album, essentially many of the songs represent a topic to which is breaking stereotype concepts or causing mayhem.

The consistent theme throughout the album is front-woman Gail Petersen’s distinct style. She makes her mark by emoting her voice in such a manner that gives off much of the same mystique as Stevie Nicks. Starting off the album, disc one is loaded with demo records that made their way into the group’s mainstay discography. Then, disc 2 offers a slew of remixed editions of the prior disc. Both track listings also incorporate a number of new music singles.

See, this band knows how to play up satirical themes, from the threat of schooling that plagued the singer’s home life growing up, to failed relationships and just being flat out wild and reckless. Songs like
“Grounded” and “Grand Theft Auto” are two examples of the bombastic flare that play through much of the first set of the tracklisting. As both of the discs play through, the latter half of the music, a more solemn tone is felt within the album. Emotions rise on tracks such as, “You Let Me Down” and “Should’ve Been Mine” offers a difference in mellow manners. One song is more powerful and utilizes Petersen’s vocal style to her advantage while the latter is a more lyrically somber and plainer sound that shows less is indeed more.

Showcasing their broad discography, this album acts as a reintroduction to a three decade’s worth of bad timing but, amazing talent. These girls know how to mix the flare of rock n’ roll with humor and contradiction to the normal ways of thinking on a particular subject. It seems that traveling through time, forty years down the line just might have its advantages when it comes to The Catholic Girls re-emergence.

Key tracks include: “Grounded,” “Grand Theft Auto,” “God Made You for Me,” and “Down At the Shore.”

Gregg Keniston - MuzikMan.net Staff
January 21, 2021

 
Track Listing
Disc 1:
01. Private School (1981)
02. Grounded (1980)
03. Summer Boy (1980)
04. Dancing on the 44 (1980)
05. Rock’n Roll School for Girls (1980)
06. Somebody in the USA (1980)
07. Grand Theft Auto (1979)
08. Young Boys (1980)
09. Where Did I Go Wrong (1981)
10. Boys Can Cry (1981)
11. Broken Record (1981)
12. You Let Me Down (1981)
13. C’est Impossible (1981)
14. Someone New (1981)
15. Rock’n America (1983)
16. If No One Fell in Love (2000)
17. It Doesn’t Become You (1984)
18. No One Like You (1983)
19. I Was A Lady (2001)
20. Night Shift (The New Jersey Song) [Alternate 2003]
21. Just Before Nightfall (Live at President’s Palace, 1979)

Disc 2:
01. Someone New
02. C’est Impossible
03. A Boy for Me
04. Where Did I Go Wrong
05. You Let Me Down
06. Private School
07. Boys Can Cry
08. God Made You for Me
09. The Only One
10. Make Me Believe
11. Niagara Falls
12. Should Have Been Mine
13. If I Hadn’t Loved You
14. Some Boys
15. Manderlay
16. Shame On You
17. Kiss Me One More Time
18. Down at the Shore
19. Without a Country
20. Somebody Better Get a Room

1/14/2021

Blues Review: Junior Wells-Blues Brothers

Release Date: November 6, 2020

Label: 2020 Cleopatra Blues

Website

The blues is quite possibly THE genre that is one-hundred percent raw emotion. Given its title, not only is it a solemn color, but it also represents intensity and how the artist might harness that intensity to symbolize their hurt or sorrow. Junior Wells, a pioneer in his time, spent over 40 years crafting his style and paving the way with a “blues-harp” style. This newly remastered collection of Wells’ recordings along with some of the greatest blues guitarists of our current generation. Blues Brothers is a grand ode to the talent and legacy that sadly Junior Wells left for us in 1998.

“Blues Hit Big Town” is a calm introduction that allows the listener to sway into the beat of the music and get them acquainted with the vocal stylings of Mr. Wells. It sets the table for what awaits the listener throughout the record. Sliding into the next track, the fun commences with a jive-sounding, tongue-in-cheek, “Good Morning Little Schoolgirl,” which is a funky bass-induced piece.

“Messin’ With the Kid” sounds like old times, trying to tune radios to the right station to avoid the most static. But, that static and raspiness is what brings the element of flashback and former city-street vibe of jazz and big-band, bluesy culture. “Scratch My Back” starts off sounding very much like the wild-wild-west but, then progresses into a lively and exciting dialogue, while at the same time keeping steady with a mid-tempo vibe to try to entice his love interest in a little bit of a rendezvous of sorts.

We come back down as listeners a bit, as “Worried Life Blues” acts as the bridge between the first and second half of the album. Wells is clearly swooning over someone either he had or someone of whom has since departed from his life in some capacity. Picking up the rear of track five, “When the Cat’s Gone” is a slick, short,  fun song that brings up the imagery… at least to me, of Tom and Jerry. “Lovey Dovey” is a pure, feel-good moment in the record that reminds us that the blues, while often dealing with sorrow or hurt, has its moments of complete opposite effect in positivity. Rather, it just utilizes the same technique as it’s somber counterparts.

“You Got to Love Her with a Feeling” might be the lowest point of the record as it seems to be the most traditional style of blues rhythm and overall tone. “Two-Headed Woman” is a rush of questioning the singer questioning the woman in his life because of her split personality but, he puts up with it because to him “there’s nothing we can do about it. “Snatch It Back” is a snappy jive that sounds much like a 60s dance move or that of which the song might be a dance number through the entire song.

Upon the end of the album, “You Don’t Care” is a dismissive song of used-to-be friends or partners of what sounds to be like a disagreement or cheating scandal between them gone wrong. With both parties telling each other off, adhering to their motives and feelings alone, they “don’t care” how the other person now is dealing with the aftermath. “It’s a Man Down There” is alluding to how the singer perceives that another man might be living amongst the underworld because of a nefarious deed. But, he just doesn’t know for certain if it is.

“Hoodoo Man Blues” is a nice wind-down song to end out the album. It is an overall instrumental piece that soothes the listener’s ear. The track’s sudden divergent rifts within points of the song provide a little jolt of excitement within the overall relaxation of the piece.

Key Tracks include: “Two Headed Woman,”Messin’ With the Kid,” “It’s A Man Down There.”

Gregg Keniston - MuzikMan.net Staff
January 12, 2021

Track Listing:

01. Blues Hit Big Town (feat. Colin James)
02. Good Morning Little Schoolgirl (feat. Pat Travers)
03. Messin’ With the Kid (feat. Tyler Bryant)
04. Scratch My Back (feat. Albert Castiglia)
05. Worried Life Blues (feat. Mike Zito & James Montgomery)
06. When the Cat’s Gone (feat. Harvey Mandel)
07. Lovey Dovey (feat. Eric Gales)
08. You Gotta Love Her with a Feeling (feat. Kirk Fletcher)
09. Two Headed Woman (feat.Guitar Shorty)
10. Snatch It Back and Hold (feat. Joe Louis Walker)
11. You Don’t Care (feat. Popa Chubby)
12. It’s A Man Down There (feat. Bernard Allison)
13. Hoodoo Man Blues (feat. Joe Louis Walker)

1/06/2021

Instrumental Progressive Ambient Review: Green Isac Orchestra-b a r (140 gram vinyl LP)

Release Date: September 15, 2020

Label:Spotted Peccary

Website

 

My only regret after hearing the most recent Green Isac Orchestra’s release b a r, is that I did not discover them years ago! This is some of the most creative and color progressive instrumental ambient music I have heard in some time. I had the pleasure of hearing it for the first time on 140 gram vinyl.

Morten Lund and Andreas Eriksen were together know as Green Isac for 25 years as a duo only, until the Green Isac collaboration expanded to a five member ensemble and rechristened themselves Green Isac Orchestra in 2015. bar is their second release as a quintet.

There is never a dull moment on b a r, in fact, this is full of brilliantly executed compositions. The operative words here is “creative” and “expansive.”

“Volcanic” starts things off and the title is very descriptive of what you will hear to get your heart pumping and your imagination kicked into high gear. It comes in just shy of a healthy 8 minutes of instrumental bliss starting off with ambient texture and building into a volcanic eruption of sounds. The track ebbs and flows between power and softer moments provided by the cello then it switches back to that colorful blasts of passion and sound. I do not think there could have been a better track on the album to get things started. When you look and see six tracks your first impression may be that is not many however you can take my word for it, it more than fills both side of the 140 gram vinyl.

“Le Grand Sportif” is 7+ minutes and it begins with a spacey intro into nice keyboard work allowing for a minimalist approach to introduce the cello. The track engages you and is in a continual evolving cycle that can be fascinating. Some good percussive sounds push it to another level as it moves closer to the end before closing out.

“With Hat” is shorter journey at 3:25 with orchestral sounds of the cello leading the way then a heavy drone like sound comes in sounding like a powerful but suggestive hammer then the gentler part of song is ushered in with an emphasis on the synths. The track has some very strong progressive movements that would please any instrumental music listener.

Side B opens with “Don Progini” (note the last name) letting us all know if we already didn’t that this is definitely progressive music! There are some interesting changes going on in this track and so many sounds converging into a blossoming full sound taking advantage of all the tools at their disposal, the band makes sure you are still paying attention. The keyboards reminded me of Tubular Bells.

“Aarwaaken” comes in over 6 minutes and starts with a spacey/spooky synth with a world edge provided by the percussive elements then it morphs for a very short period over to classical path. Mind melting synths arrive to give it that sci-fi feel as well to keep things interesting. The only way to describe this masterful composition is to call it acoustic-progressive-ambient with a classical underpinning.

“Without Hat” closes the curtain on this aural journey starting with a guitar, which was different in comparison to all the other tracks. Various synths are the building blocks of the track and it provides excitement and leads the listener to a colorful ending to close out the album.

Why stay the same is the mantra for b a r and that works very well for this excellent recording. They never do the same thing twice and that is what makes b a r  so enjoyable and something you will want to hear more than once.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder

January 3, 2021

Track List:

Side A:
1. Volcanic
2. Le Grand Sportif
3. With Hat

Side B:
4. Don Progini
5. Aarwaaken
6. Without Hat




Instrumental Progressive Ambient Review: Green Isac Orchestra-b a r (140 gram vinyl LP)

Release Date: September 15, 2020

Label: Spotted Peccary

Website

 

My only regret after hearing the most recent Green Isac Orchestra’s release b a r, is that I did not discover them years ago! This is some of the most creative and color progressive instrumental ambient music I have heard in some time. I had the pleasure of hearing it for the first time on 140 gram vinyl.

Morten Lund and Andreas Eriksen were together know as Green Isac for 25 years as a duo only, until the Green Isac collaboration expanded to a five member ensemble and rechristened themselves Green Isac Orchestra in 2015. bar is their second release as a quintet.

There is never a dull moment on b a r, in fact, this is full of brilliantly executed compositions. The operative words here is “creative” and “expansive.”

“Volcanic” starts things off and the title is very descriptive of what you will hear to get your heart pumping and your imagination kicked into high gear. It comes in just shy of a healthy 8 minutes of instrumental bliss starting off with ambient texture and building into a volcanic eruption of sounds. The track ebbs and flows between power and softer moments provided by the cello then it switches back to that colorful blasts of passion and sound. I do not think there could have been a better track on the album to get things started. When you look and see six tracks your first impression may be that is not many however you can take my word for it, it more than fills both side of the 140 gram vinyl.

“Le Grand Sportif” is 7+ minutes and it begins with a spacey intro into nice keyboard work allowing for a minimalist approach to introduce the cello. The track engages you and is in a continual evolving cycle that can be fascinating. Some good percussive sounds push it to another level as it moves closer to the end before closing out.

“With Hat” is shorter journey at 3:25 with orchestral sounds of the cello leading the way then a heavy drone like sound comes in sounding like a powerful but suggestive hammer then the gentler part of song is ushered in with an emphasis on the synths. The track has some very strong progressive movements that would please any instrumental music listener.

Side B opens with “Don Progini” (note the last name) letting us all know if we already didn’t that this is definitely progressive music! There are some interesting changes going on in this track and so many sounds converging into a blossoming full sound taking advantage of all the tools at their disposal, the band makes sure you are still paying attention. The keyboards reminded me of Tubular Bells.

“Aarwaaken” comes in over 6 minutes and starts with a spacey/spooky synth with a world edge provided by the percussive elements then it morphs for a very short period over to classical path. Mind melting synths arrive to give it that sci-fi feel as well to keep things interesting. The only way to describe this masterful composition is to call it acoustic-progressive-ambient with a classical underpinning.

“Without Hat” closes the curtain on this aural journey starting with a guitar, which was different in comparison to all the other tracks. Various synths are the building blocks of the track and it provides excitement and leads the listener to a colorful ending to close out the album.

Why stay the same is the mantra for b a r and that works very well for this excellent recording. They never do the same thing twice and that is what makes b a r  so enjoyable and something you will want to hear more than once.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-TFOV Founder

January 3, 2021

Track List:

Side A:
1. Volcanic
2. Le Grand Sportif
3. With Hat

Side B:
4. Don Progini
5. Aarwaaken
6. Without Hat




12/18/2020

Jazz Review: Charu Suri-The New American Songbook EP

Release Date: December 20, 2019

Label: Amala Records

Website

If it has been a while since you heard some great jazz, specifically with piano as the main instrument, and a gorgeous female voice, then I have found one artist you simply need to hear now. Her name is Charu Suri and with her latest EP The New American Songbook, she makes quite a musical  statement.

Charu is the first female Indian American jazz composer to premiere work at Carnegie Hall. Charu has been playing the piano since the age of five and performing since the age of nine. She won an international piano competition at the age of 15. When you start in music that young, there is ample time to develop and certainly in this instance all those years have paid an enormous number of dividends.

Danielle Erin Rhodes’ voice is perfect and she can get so high and clear; is the vocal instrument on display with all the music, particularly Charu’s exceptional piano, accompanying her that puts the finishing touch on every track. Even though you may only get four tracks, it is very satisfying, and this could be the taste of what is to come. If that is the case, I look forward to an entire album of music and vocalizations like those on The New American Songbook.

The track “A Little Joy,” is made for the Holiday Season and was just released on YouTube, and will be on Spotify on January 30th. This is the kind of music people need to hear now and not because it is great music with a soothing beautiful voice getting you some comfort, it is all about having just a little joy, maybe for the length of the song or for Christmas. Whatever you are going through right now, this will offer a few moments in time to get into another space.

The New American Songbook and Charu Suri will take you back to a time when there were so many amazing jazz musicians and singers like Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday. Speaking of the blues, Charu does get “Bluesy” on the ivory keys, and you can feel the emotion of Danielle’s vocals taking hold of you. It is the best track on the EP and one I will never forget.

The New American Songbook
is a recording that lovers of jazz, blues, and holiday music will want to hear.  

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
December 16, 2020

Track List:
1. Seasons        
2. Bluesy        
3. It's the Simple Things
4. A Little Joy


12/15/2020

Pop-R&B Review: Sam Wilder-Homebound

Release Date: October 16, 2020

Label: Spin Move Records

Website

Sam Wilder’s recent release Homebound will raise some eyebrows in the music industry and capture many listeners. Like the saying goes “No risk, no reward.” Wilder stepped out and took a big chance to change his life’s path forever.


He decided to choose the title because he left his home in the Netherlands to go to Los Angeles to find his path in music. Like everyone else, he is missing his family during these lock down times.

As things turned out when he got to LA, he was immediately on the fast track to success taking his many talents to the studio to create radio-ready music for the masses.

Sam’s natural talents become evident in the eight tracks offered on the EP. “Overtime,” is a great tune featuring glossy pop and beats to keep you in a steady groove. And it is good, no, actually better than some of the crap out there they decided to call music. “Penelope” and “Bring It Home (feat. Livy Lee)” also shines the light on this progressing talent.

Everything about Homebound says “Play me” and for good reason. The music is keeping right in step with what you will hear on any platform in 2020. The catchy hooks and Sam’s high vocalizations move each song right to the heart of any listener. The combination of Pop and R & B brings out all the talent this young man has to offer in all eight tracks. The only difference is that he is not on the same playlist as pop divas like Katy Perry etc. Perhaps that can all change if his music makes it to the right people in the industry. He is good enough to break it big.

I enjoy listening to artists like Sam Wilder and bringing attention to all the talent on display on Homebound. It is interesting how eight tracks are considered an EP and back in the day of The Beatles for instance, when they were pumping out 4 or 5 albums a year, it would be an entire album. Now today a full album is at least 12 tracks or more.

Regardless of these facts, Sam Wilder has made his musical statement on Homebound and it will be heard. The talent of this young man is obvious and the potential is limitless. One listen to this album proves that. The purpose and intent is clear, Sam is here to stay and he has an amazing future in front of him.


Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
December 13, 2020


Track List:

1. Fiending    
2. What's Wrong With Me        
3. Set You Off        
4. Overtime
5. Sunlight        
6. Without        
7. Penelope    
8. Bring It Home (feat. Livy Lee) [Explicit]


12/07/2020

World Instrumental Guitar Review: Kiko Barriuso-6 Stringed Music

Release Date: October, 22, 2020

Label: Independent

Website


Kiko Barriuso is a six-string guitar maestro on his most recent, and seventh proper recording, titled 6 Stringed Music. It does not get any more straightforward than that when it comes to album titles. There are no hidden meanings, riddles, or something that needs to be interpreted. Born in Madrid Spain in 1978, he started with the piano at a young age then gravitated towards the guitar.


After translating Spanish to English on his Bandcamp page this is the overview I got of the album:
6 Stringed Music is a collection of instrumental songs in a world music style. All instruments have been played and programmed by Kiko Barriuso (except where indicated). acoustic guitar mainly, although other types of guitars appear (12 strings, electric ...).

What you are promised is a wide variety of styles and approaches. And that is exactly what you get. I must say straight away that I loved this right from the first note to the end. I have many reasons, first of course is his excellent command of the six-string, the eclectic tracks, and most importantly respect for the level of difficulty of not only playing the guitar incredibly well but venturing into a worldly journey of exploration of sounds. The tracks burst with electric energies and all colors of the musical spectrum.

“Entre Dos Tierras” is a fantastic journey of the acoustic guitar. It is played with style and grace and the full impact and generosity of the varying degrees of sound are appreciated by this listener. “Pisando Un Nuevo Suelo” starts with a nice ambient atmosphere then explodes into some magnificent electric guitar lines. Previous to that you will experience all-acoustic playing and would likely expect more of the same after looking at the album cover as well. It was a nice surprise for my listening tastes as he still played with exceptional precision and grace.

You will find out very quickly that Kiko knows how to make an impact with the guitar regardless if it is acoustic or electric or influenced by another country besides his own. That thought process for me gives even more credence to his ability and amazing talent.

“Un Toque Español” starts and I am wondering if he is going to jump into his full version of “Classical Gas.” The track never reaches that crescendo of emotion and lightning speed playing, instead what you get is a gorgeously short Spanish-influenced acoustic instrumental that ends way too soon. And that is meant strictly as a compliment to how much I appreciated the composition.

“Vuelo Nocturno” is another track filled with worldly delights and sounds. It is one of the highlights of the recording with layers of sounds added to support his guitar presentation. The intermingling of the layers of sounds suits the playing quite well and the result is a richly flavored freshly brewed instrumental gem. I bet you thought I was going to say something about coffee? Well, the comparison is there as a fresh cup of coffee from the finest beans in the world has no comparison, unless you are playing guitar while you’re drinking it, in this instance, it all applies.

Just to make sure he covers all the ground possible; he ends the album with the “Sueño Oriental,” which runs over 7 minutes. On this track you get the best of both worlds, Kiko plays acoustic and electric. The wonder of layering music is a beautiful thing. It is the most progressive and complicated track you will hear.

I think “Closing Time” should have been the last track, it seems appropriate but there is nothing ordinary or anticipatory about any of this music. You just have to wait to see what is next. That is the kind of recording I can appreciate the most.

Kiko Barriuso is a six-string conjurer on 6 Stringed Music. The beauty of the instrument and the lands the music is derived from is a tasty instrumental treat you should not miss. The is the art of music in full bloom and seen through the eyes of one talented man. I cannot wait to see where he goes from here!

Note: For Those of you that do not speak Spanish, I asked Kiko to translate the tracks to English.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
December 5, 2020 

Track List:
01. Claro Que Si 03:10 (Yes Of Course)
02. Semilla De Amor 03:43 (Love Seed)
03. A Través Del Tiempo 02:54 (Throughout Time)
04. Entre Dos Tierras 04:21 (Between Two Lands)
05. Still Missing You 03:48
06. Pisando Un Nuevo Suelo 04:09 (Stepping On A New Ground)
07. Sensaciones 03:19 (Sensations)
O8. Un Toque Español 03:11 (A Spanish Touch)
09. Vuelo Nocturno 02:57 (Night Flight)
10. Never Ending Winter 02:55
11. A Change of The Seasong 03:17
12. Closing Time 02:27
13. Sueño Oriental 07:17 (Oriental Dream)


11/20/2020

Featured Track:-The Song Gardeners - Love Is The Magic of Change

The Song Gardeners are back with a new single from the fertile grounds where they plant a seed with their enchanting sounds on "Love Is The Magic of Change."

The seed grows and blossoms inside you while listening to their music. It is a can't miss proposition with lyrics that will touch your soul.

Here is an example of some of the lyrics: 

And we are one with the universe sparks of light, connecting the people and places in our lives, and we are here for a moment in space and time, inspiring each other to better humankind.

It is so beautiful and meaningful and the music brings the lyrics down the path that makes the most impact. The voice of Ms. Corrie Dunn is excellent, her inner beauty and tenderness come shining through as she plays the keys. 

Chris Day's bass is in perfect step as Mary Gospe provides the backing vocals. It is a trio from heaven here to grace our presence with their magic of change, their music.

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck


Visit The Song Gardener's Website: https://www.thesonggardeners.com

The Song Gardeners is a musical trio from the San Francisco Bay Area featuring singer/songwriter Corrie Dunn (vocals, piano, guitar), singer/songwriter Mary Gospe (vocals, guitar, percussion), and Chris Day (bass). 

Their original songs are filled with positive, empowering messages and beautiful harmonies.


11/19/2020

Rock-Pop Review: Denoven-Retrofuturism

Release Date: October 9, 2020

Label: TimeArt Recordings

Website

If you remember the 80s and the music that was being played then you will love Retrofuturism from the artist known as Denoven. Straight away one of your first thoughts will be this is one of those uncovered gems that never got released. The process of putting it together started in 2018 and was completed this year. The album showcases one hell of a tight band and a lady with an incredible voice that goes up to 5 octaves, which is extremely rare.

Notably, tracks are featuring Pat Kelley and Mike Miller on guitar with the masterfully effective synth work by Denoven and commanding vocals. Other players in her band that you will recognize are the incredible Vinnie Colaiuta on drums with Neil Steubenhaus on bass.

So, if you are ready to rock and think of days gone by, this will do it for you and then some. So here we go into the music time machine…

If you can remember the days of dancing “Body to Body” or you are doing it now in your social distanced bubble then good for you! Here is some music that will keep those eternal embers burning. Although I think the song is about what happens after the dance.

“Just Wanna Love You” is one of my favorites, it features a band in sync and reminds me of the 80s and Friday nights dancing in San Francisco. It put a smile in my heart and soul. It is perfect for the period. Denoven’s voice is sultry smooth and very emotive albeit sexy. The point gets across loud and clear. There are some great background vocals and a cut like a new razor lead guitar three-quarters of the way through as the track gets closer to the end.

The quirky “Make Up Your Mind” takes you down another path, this time the progressive lane as mentioned on the website one sheet, it is “odd meter.” This proved to be the outright talent this band has and their ability to change it up so fast.

The ballad “Never Goes Away” would have been a hit back in the 80s and actually, it sounded timeless to me and it is a hit at any time on my radio dial. This was excellent musicianship and vocals on display. I found a lot of appreciation for what was being offered. Similarly, and more of a rocker, “Out of My Head,” is a reminder of the days when hormones were raging and the power of youth took complete control of your mind and body. And another great guitar lick comes front and center around three quarters into the track, putting the rocker stamp on it for good. In the end, Denoven lets her 5-octave vocals close out the track. Wow, what a finale that was!

“Radioactive” sounds radio ready and a sure-fire hit in the top forty in the 80s. This music may be close to four decades removed from now but today I enjoyed it as much as I would have then. That says it all for this music lover.

Retrofuturism is a solid group of tracks and the title befits the music, you have my guarantee. Are you ready to rock into the 80s again or maybe for the first time? Here comes Denoven!

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-MuzikMan.net Founder
November 17, 2020
 

Track List:
01. Out of My Head 3:28                                 
02. Words in the Dark 3:48                           
03. Make Up Your Mind 4:01                           
04. Radioactive 4:02                                    
05. Who Do You Know 3:10                            
06. Body to Body 4:15                                 
07. You’re Someone I Could Know 4:13         
08. Hot as Ice 4:02                                            
09. Just Wanna Love You 3:35                      
10. Never Goes Away 4:14   

TOTAL TIME 38:08


10/25/2020

Prog Rock Review: Circuline-Circulive New View

Release Date: October 9, 2020

Label: Circuline Music

Website

Prog Stock 2017 was attended by actual people, how different? Things that were normal every day things have changed in the new norm. I usually attend at least 5 concerts a year and I went to one just before the virus spread like wildfire.


Circulive New View just came out this month. I covered Circuline-Circulive::Majestik DVD in 2018. That was an excellent prog-rock experience so I anticipate the same with the new release and was not disappointed.

The band Circuline is a prog-rock band out of New York that is no stranger to the stage. Circuline is Andrew Colyer (keyboards, vocals), Darin Brannon (drums, percussion), Alek Darson (guitars), Joel Simches (bass), and lead vocalists Billy Spillane and Natalie Brown.

Their performance at the festival was captured on a magnificent Blu-ray and DVD. This is a 3-disc set including a CD so all formats are covered for thirteen tracks offered on this superb audio-visual experience. There also bonus features with official videos, tour posters, images, and more.

Circuline members are polished professionals and bring a very entertaining show to the stage. Their music is distinctively prog-rock with an in-sync rhythm section, two incredibly talented vocalists, a guitar player suited to play through all the many changes one song can go through, and of course the amazing Andrew Colyer on keyboards. Andrew is recognized for his accomplishments but not on the level he should be. Based on what I have heard over the last few years, he ranks right up there with some of the best and most tasteful players active today.

Coming in under the wire in the prog world is nothing new because it refuses to go mainstream. Fans such as myself and thousands more are grateful for that and thank them for staying true to themselves and the music. That is something that is accepted going into this type of music and the music remains the most important factor, endearing fans of all ages to their work. This set is a document to the excellence of Circuline as a functioning musical unit without exception.

The two performances I enjoyed the most were the “Piano Challenge” on track #5 and “The Forbidden Planet + Drum Feature” on track 10. The drum performance was quite entertaining as everyone on stage was playing some sort of percussion. They all were in sync as well, which is not an easy task, especially if it is not your primary instrument.

The bonus you get has two choices of viewing for the video and then the soundtrack on CD for strictly the audio experience. Also, something interesting is the option of watching the video to a band commentary, however, I would recommend watching just the concert first then the commentary version to see what they all have to say about the performance.

Circulive New View
is the complete audio and visual experience you could have. Excellent musicianship is the most important factor and that is what makes everything else the icing on the cake.


Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck-Prog Rock Music Talk Founder
October 24, 2020

Track List:
01. Intro / Erosion (Live)        
02. Soleil Noir (Live)        
03. One Wish (Live)    
04. Nautilus (Live)    
05. Piano Challenge (Live)    
06. Hollow (Live)    
07. Return (Acoustic) [Live}        
08. Fallout Shelter (Live)    
09. Pale Blue Dot (Live)    
10. Forbidden Planet / Drum Feature (Live)    
11. Inception (Live)    
12. Summit (Live)        
13. Stereotypes (Live)


10/23/2020

Track Feature: Fusion Mafiosi-Fall From Grace

 

Guitar wizard Danny John and his band are his first collaborative project by the members of Danny John Trio, Danny John, James Dennett, Marcos Gil, and friends, Justin Defreece (Guitar), Derek Sherinian (Keyboards).  They are called Fusion Mafiosi.


The first single "Fall From Grace," clocks in at 11:36. It is an amazing musical jam session that will remind you of the best jazz-rock-fusion from bands like Return To Forever and Mahavishnu Orchestra at times. After 10 minutes he launches into full head-on metal riffs and some shredding.


So if you are looking for a taste of jazz-fusion, metal, and flat out shredding all in under 12 minutes, then you will definitely find great appreciation for "Fall From Grace."


Danny John is a superb six-sting maestro that I would not mind hearing a lot more!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck

More About Danny John:
https://www.facebook.com/fusionmafiosi

Many instrumental guitar trios capably blend jazz, rock and blues elements, but the one led by Australian guitarist Danny John takes a harder stance. With feet firmly planted on the metallic side of the fence...READ MORE...


10/16/2020

Prog Rock Review: Lighthouse Sparrows-The Deep End

Release Date: August 4,2020

Label: Samsara Records

Website

Back in 2019 in Finland, guitarist Sami Sarhamaa and his colleague, Olli Huhtanen, a sound engineer, made the move from talking about music to actually making the music. Surprisingly quickly they had 5 tracks completed and a mini album, The Deep End was released.

In effect, Olli produces the basics of the track and Sami adds things to his liking and they decided that rather than aim to produce prog rock, art rock or whatever, they would simply “go with the flow” of what they produced.

The onset of Covid – 19 lockdowns meant that time to finalize these 5 tracks became available. Via the internet, the two friends, working in their own studios, collaborated with other musicians, namely Miri Miettinen (drums) and Trio Tingo (backing vocals). This ultimately resulted in The Deep End being released at the beginning of August.

The Deep End is a 5 track mini album with a total running time of just over 30 minutes (30:11) with track 3, “Shallow End” being the shortest at 4:45 minutes and the final track, “Gravity” the longest with a playing time in excess of 7:00 minutes (7:11).

The opening track “Gravest Danger” (6:17) starts with a great guitar riff which falls away to a gentler scenario before the crystal-clear vocals enter. The track slowly builds in intensity and the gentle guitar passages are sublime. Around the halfway point the track has an excellent synth theme before the guitar sets down another excellent passage and ushers in the vocals again. Another excellent passage builds with the musicians showing their skills before the sound drops away to end with a solo piano motif. This track has certainly been successful in getting the listeners interest and for relative newcomers, this has been an excellent taster for the 4 tracks still to come.

Track 2, “Scales” (7:00) carries on from the opening track with more excellent vocals and superb guitar riffs. After 4 minutes, the track takes a different direction with some exquisite piano and synth passages, prior to the vocals appearing. Only 2 tracks in and this release is looking like a stunning debut for Lighthouse Sparrows.

The third track, “Shallow End” (4:46) continues the good work with a much more laidback feel, which highlights another facet of the band. The vocals sound very relaxed but can “roughen up” when required. Synth passages carry the track on with sudden seamless changes in tempo and a guitar passage with a little more “punch” takes the track to its finale.

The last 2 tracks, “Deep End” and “Gravity,” (4:57 and 7:11 respectively), continue to impress to the listener, bearing in mind that this release is a debut mini album. Synths, great drum and bass from the engine room, excellent vocals and stunning guitar passages. The range of the band over the 5 tracks on offer is exceptional.


The Deep End
is an amazing debut and gives the listener the perception of a band that has been playing and recording for a long time as the band just exudes confidence in what they do. I have no hesitation in suggesting that this mini album would be money well spent and I look forward, in anticipation, to where Lighthouse Sparrows go from this point.


Jim “The Ancient One” Lawson – Prog Rock Music Talk Staff.
October 10, 2020


Tracks:
1. Gravest Danger (6:17)
2. Scales (7:00)
3. Shallow End (4:46)
4. Deep End (4.57)
5. Gravity (7:11)


10/03/2020

Featured Track: Dan Palladino-Leaving Cygnus

 

Dan Palladino has released several albums over his career and most recently in 2019 Pastoral Memory.

Dan Commented: With the single track "Leaving Cygnus," I wanted to continue the experiments which began on "Counting Stars" from Pastoral Memory. I find the electric sitar uniquely suited for ambient music, and I think featuring it on this track gives it the middle eastern/southern Asian vibe I was trying to create.  

 I would agree with that statement after listening to the track. I think the combination of the ambient music and all its sounds and textures are enhanced in a very positive way.  In fact, it actually highlights the other instruments in an entirely different light.  

"Leaving Cignus" continues the path of solar exploration in a most significant way with music and eye catching art like what Dan presents on the cover of this single track.

My hope as a listener is that Dan Palladino continues to experiment with different instruments to put on top of the ambient layers he creates. 

So sit back and listen to the stream now and enjoy this interstellar creation of music!

Keith "MuzikMan" Hannaleck


More About Dan Palladino: http://danpalladinomusic.com

Dan Palladino is a guitarist, vocalist, composer, and music instructor based in Central New Jersey. He began his journey on guitar at the age of seven, played his first gig at the age of 12, and has continually performed in public for the past 45 years...READ MORE...

9/29/2020

Instrumental Acoustic Guitar: Michelle Qureshi-within

Release Date: September 25, 2020

Label: Real Music

Website

within is Michelle Quershi’s twelfth recording. The album encompasses 24 tracks which at first glance looks like a double album however they are shorter in the length with the longest coming in at 4:14 (# 23 “Waiting For A Friend”).

The acoustic guitar is Michelle’s specialty. The cover art indicates the color, nature, and organic placid beauty, much like the way all of these tracks are presented. She covers some ground amongst these tracks. It is filled with an excellent acoustic guitar that would relax the most nervous and unsettled individual. There is no other way to explain the effect this music can have on you.

I typically hear a lot of keyboard-based music so this was a nice step away from that. You come to appreciate acoustic guitar music more if you do not hear it as often as you like. There is nothing complex going on here, it is one woman and one guitar. That is all she needs because she reaches down deep within this music. The title is understated beneath her name on the cover in lower case. I see this at times and wonder why. My thought here is she wanted to bring more attention to her name and the image and what it projects. That is my perception and nothing else though.

Time is irrelevant because what is being offered here is aural substance and the beauty one instrument can produce if placed into the right hands. In this case, Michelle sounds as if she was born to do this because the flow of the tracks is so effortless. As with mother nature, it happens, you accept it and appreciate it or not. For this listener, there is a lot of appreciation for this kind of music. The singularity and simplicity of it are what amazes me and along those lines, then how would something like this keep my attention? Well, it does quite well thank you very much and I had no issue enjoying all of it with complete attention.

There is more to music than meets the eye. It is all-encompassing in regards to atmosphere, tones, texture, and how you perceive it all is the most important factor. It works that way for all of us who love our music. What is there not to like here? 24 tracks of gorgeously composed and played acoustic guitar music suits me just fine any time of day.

Guitar aficionados and listeners alike will all find something to enjoy on within. It does not get any easier and straightforward than that.

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck
September 26, 2020

Track List:
01. Above Us
02. With Joy
03. With Courage
04. Sweet Child
05. With Anticipation
06. With Hesitation
07. With Knowing
08. Aurora Glass
09. Content
10. Shores of Atlantis
11. Before We Go
12. With Langour
13. Afternoon in May
14.  With Resolve
15. Storyboard
16. Half This Sky
17. With Certainty    
18. Beneath    
19. With Doubt
20. At Twilight         
21. With Hope
22. With Thoughtfulness        
23. Waiting for a Friend        
24. With Tenderness