Sunday, May 31, 2009

"Uriel's Passage" by Amelia Coffey (Instrumental Artist from Oregon(OR))

Amelia Coffey has the right idea of how animals can inspire warm and inviting melodies with her New Age Jazz instrumental disc, "Uriel's Passage." Coffey has taken her love for animals and has artistically composed and performed these charming songs of peaceful mood music. "Dolphin Play" is stunning with a nice dynamic balance between the electric piano and flute while the melody sweetly flows with ease. Delicate and dreamy, the titled track, "Uriel's Passage" is serene with the flute playing with heartfelt emotions while guitar gracefully accompanies with soft broken chord progressions. Picture yourself standing in a lush, green meadow of Ireland with the wind gently blowing a warm summer breeze through your hair with the sounds of the ocean and birds singing, as you hear a beautiful rendition of "Danny Boy" performed ever so gracefully on the flute. Relax and enjoy the memorable, dreamscape sounds and lovely instrumental melodies on "Uriel's Passage."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Amelia Coffey's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Ballads & Blues" by Mary Paulson (Blues Artist from California(CA))

Mary Paulson has compiled a beautiful blend of soft rock ballads with influences of country and blues on her latest disc, "Ballads & Blues." Paulson is quite a talented singer as her vocals are clean and polished with fine clarity. She seamlessly transitions from one style to another, showing impressive versatility. The Hammond organ solo on "My Summer" captures the upbeat twelve bar blues feel while the vocals and band are solid and tight. Turn the tables around and get a taste of country spice on "Believe in Me" with the banjo and fiddle balancing the mix on this tuneful song. "Give Me a Reason," written by Peter Kossek who resides in Denmark, is strong and powerful with lyrics that will tug at your heart. Another ballad that is stunning is "Untouchable Love" with an electric piano accompaniment that has a hint of bluesy flavor. If you're in the mood to just kick back and unwind to some relaxing music, then toss on "Ballads & Blues" and let the music take you away.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Mary Paulson's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Thursday, May 28, 2009

"Be Who You Are" by Emilio Palame Band (R&B Artist from Los Angeles, California(CA))

Urbane and sophisticated, Emilio Palame Band's "Be Who You Are" CD is a smart collection of contemporary R&B trading funk grooves with interludes of traditional jazz piano spread over 23 tracks of pure musicality. Boasting influences that range from the lyricism of Billy Strayhorn to the dynamism of Earth, Wind & Fire; "Be Who You Are" is a throwback to an era when musical prowess trumped the constraints of genres and target audiences. On "Runaway" the Palame band invokes a subtle Latin vibe that recalls Chicago (the group), while the brilliant pianism on "Emily's Dancing Eyes" is but a backdrop to an R&B workout showcasing the bands elastic and nuanced dexterity. Where "Piano Prelude to We Are Love" finds pianist Palame beautifully exploring the richness of Bill Evans-like jazz piano, the electric keys of the full-band version of "We Are Love" swing it in a Stevie Wonder-like direction that smoothly melds the background chorus in grand harmonic convergence. The charged and dynamic "New Day" gives this amazing band a chance to flex its considerable muscle revealing, if nothing else, how the 1-2 punch of great charts in the hands of polished musicians can unlock the oft-hidden depths a song contains. But whether it's straight-up funk, '70's-grounded R&B, or the classically melodic jazz at the heart of Emilio Palame's artistry, "Be Who You Are" is a CD that succeeds because it pays tribute to its influences by invigorating the artistry that fueled them.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Emilio Palame Band's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Mosaic" by Identity Crisis (Pop Artist from Washington(WA))

Mosaic is defined as "a combination of diverse elements forming a more or less coherent whole." Identity Crisis and their CD "Mosaic," is appropriately titled as this collection of varying styles tells a love story through numerous musical genres. With both male and female vocals, the album has a refreshing inconsistency that's bound to keep you engaged. "The Idea of You" takes a Bossa Nova approach, putting the listener in an elegant surrounding but don't get too comfortable; "Best of Yourself" captures a smoky bar ambiance through an 8-bar blues number. The harmonies are spectacular as you will hear on songs such as "Beyond." There are horns, harmonica, harmony, and solid and concrete musicianship that hold it all in place. These musicians have formed a strong and sound connection and the chemistry between them is brilliant. The password is "Mosaic," come on in.

-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Identity Crisis's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Tuesday, May 26, 2009

"Truth Be Told..." by Vick Allen (R&B Artist from Mississippi(MS))

Sequencing a full-length CD is an art unto itself and the best kept secret to making a solid album. As important as it is to stack strong tracks near the beginning of an album, it's often those last one or two songs that make the difference in getting a listener to come back again and again. R&B hit- maker, Vick Allen, and his newest CD "Truth Be Told…" is an 11-song Urban / R&B treasure, and is a perfect example of getting it right. Opening with the appropriately titled "I'm Hooked," an up tempo, Al Green-like groove punctuated by Memphis-style horn bursts, Allen sets the tone for the diverse platter of R&B that follows. "You Stay On My Mind" is an inspired piece of infectious Southern Soul, while "Forbidden Love Affair" finds Allen revealing his inner R. Kelly; and "As Long As I Got My Baby" serves up a dash of funk, it is followed by the completely contemporary soul of "I Know You Got a Man." Regardless of style, though, "Truth Be Told…" is seamless and cohesive, linked as it were by inventive and smart arrangements, superb musicianship, and the kind of background vocals that defines great Urban music and, of course, Allen's smooth high tenor, a voice that alternately echoes Green, as well as lesser known R&B luminaries like Eddie Kendricks, Tyrone Davis or Howard Tate. But it's the CD closer, "That's Heaven to Me", a solemn and uplifting Sam Cooke cover with the kind of message and melody Stevie Wonder later perfected on songs like "Heaven Help Us All" that seals the deal and will ensure repeated listens. Sequenced for maximum effect and filled with classic R&B grooves from beginning to end, Vick Allen's "Truth Be Told…" CD is a terrific album and a welcome addition to the Soul field.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Vick Allen's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"3 Nights in Vegas" by Stone Stedman (Country Artist from Los Angeles, California(CA))

Stone Stedman's "3 Nights in Vegas" CD is like that old Donny Osmond hit, a little bit country and a little bit rock 'n' roll. More than that, though, the 13 songs this venerable bandleader (known for decades of work on the Vegas strip,) plies his trade in songs that dabble in Cajun, Tex-Mex, mainstream country and rock, and even contemporary Top 40 pop. It is an eclectic mix but convincing in its various aspects. The multi-lingual Stedman smoothly sings in French on the John Denver-like ballad, "J'aimerai Toujour," Spanish on two songs (an Enrique Iglesias-styled Top 40 song) "Donde Vas" and the pure Mexicana of "Middle," but in English on the Freddy Fender-styled Tex -Mex-meets Cajun-concoction, "Come Home." The rest of the CD features varied textures, with the mainstream country swing of "3 Nights in Vegas" and "Ready to Try," a synth-drenched pop song called "Pride," and the country-rock of "Victims." While the range of material may at first glance seem a stretch, the versatile Stone Stedman proves his mettle by pulling it all together on the CD, "3 Nights in Vegas."

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Stone Stedman's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Saturday, May 23, 2009

"Sonata Love Crime of Opera" by Sonata (Classical Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

Mix elements of opera with Broadway tunes and R&B and you will get the debut disc, "Sonata Love Crime of Opera" by the talented young classical singer, Sonata. As an opera vocalist, she displays spectacular control over her voice with richness and power. "Habanera" and "O mio babbino caro" are performed in their original language, allowing listeners to appreciate the details and subtleties of Sonata's sophisticated musical maturity. Sonata shows her vocal versatility when she switches genres to R&B style on songs such as "Love Crime" or "Notice Me." Even though this is quite a change from opera, her voice still carries a smooth and silky sound. Sonata has quite a selection of material on this innovative album and listeners will find her voice to be expressive and articulate, no matter what she sings. New fans as well as old will be smitten by the exquisite and refined performances of Sonata on her album "Sonata Love Crime of Opera."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out Sonata's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Thursday, May 21, 2009

"Up Against My Soul" by Hijirah Kem (Electronic Artist from Oregon(OR))

Hijirah Kem's album, "Up Against My Soul," is an eclectic and edgy electronica experience. Kem describes herself as a "multi-media artist" who utilizes high-tech compositional collaging as her instrument and formula for channeling creativity. The music is complex in its individual and collective layering yet the elements mesh, creating a futuristic sound that gels. "Sand in my Head" includes an almost droning tone, created by a digital wind instrument that exudes an enticing and mysterious ambiance. "Chasing Wormholes" is a perfect title for the final song as resonating synths fall into rubble and re-emerge reborn. The album carries its own inertia and remains engaging through the end. Go on an escapade with Hijirah Kem and her latest disc, "Up Against My Soul," she'll show you the way.
-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jagwire HKX's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Wednesday, May 20, 2009

"Perfect Chaos" by Sue Quigley (Rock Artist from Washington(WA))

"Perfect Chaos," Sue Quigley's latest CD, is a polished continuation of this fine Seattle-bred singer-songwriter's exploration of traditional and classic female rock forms. This time around, though, the acoustic guitars are a little more pronounced and the rhythms less insistent, but the hooks are no less engaging and Quigley's resonant voice still squeezes every last drop of blood from her songs' intricate veins. And rich veins they are. "Fallen World" masterfully blends a syncopated rhythm to a sonorous cello in a moving bid for hope and redemption, while the melodic "Paper Tiger" languorous vocal belies the rage smoldering barely under the surface. "Picture in a Drawer" and "She's Not Talking to You" are nifty mid-tempo numbers reminiscent of female rock forebears like Johnette Napolitano, Sass Jordan, or Patty Smyth. But on the album's stripped down ballads - such as the closer, "How It's Going to Be," with it's demo-like vocal and acoustic guitar-only performance – or the moving "Yours to Say," Quigley reveals the softer edges of a fiercely independent artist to best effect. All told, "Perfect Chaos" is a terrific alternative pop/rock-oriented CD and a fine addition to Sue Quigley's growing and noteworthy canon.

- Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Sue Quigley's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Jerad Finck" by Jerad Finck (Pop Artist from Washington(WA))

Jerad Finck's self-titled debut CD is a 12-song showcase for a newcomer with the discerning instincts of a pop-rock veteran. Whether delivering frantic, insistent rockers like "Another" or achingly delicate ballads "Movin' On," the CD is a model of pop balance and rock fire. While several tracks benefit from nuanced and deftly-charted string arrangements, the driving rhythm of "You" and the blistering guitar solo of "Whatever You Want" ensure that the rock in pop-rock gets its due. And with hooks as big as the great outdoors, combined with a solid, in-the-pocket rhythm section, "Jerad Finck" shows a power-pop sensibility that would make The Knack proud. Check out Finck's bold and utterly contemporary arrangement of "Paperback Writer" and you get a sense not only of Jared's craftsmanship, but also of the singer-songwriter's artistic confidence. Mainstream in its accessibility and sincerity, "Jerad Finck" is a pop-rock CD that is also original, honest, and a fine debut from a talented young performer.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jerad Finck's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Music." by Robin Horlock (Rock Artist from Michigan(MI))

Robin Horlock's aptly titled third CD; "Music." is an 11-song collection of tuneful, well-constructed songs that reflect the singer's Adult Contemporary experiences to great effect. Noted for the relaxed but soulful passion in his vocals, Horlock delivers hook-filled, guitar-based tunes with the ease and capability of a Jack Johnson or John Mayer, but without surrendering his own considerable uniqueness. Employing extremely tasteful blends of acoustic and electric fretwork throughout, "Music." highlights consist of Adult Contemporary gems that showcase styles ranging from California-style soft rock "Here & Now" to post-Eagles Don Henley pop-rock "Everything Falls Apart." On "The Difference Between Day and Night" Horlock even seems to channel the '70's-era voice of John Sebastian, while "Life Goes On" features spare but distinctly affective sax lines to flesh out a stirring anthem of hope. Simply put, "Music." is another strong CD from an artist whose instincts for savvy and smart adult pop are spot-on.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Robin Horlock's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Tuesday, May 19, 2009

"Distant Thunder" by Karl Stephen Brunig (Spiritual Artist from Texas(TX))

Karl Stephen Brunig reaches well beyond the roots of Gospel music with his latest album of finely written songs on "Distant Thunder." Brunig has taken the traditional style of Gospel music and has spun a new twist with the genres of rock and blues with inspirational appeal. The lyrics and artistic arrangements will move you with uplifting attraction. The title track "Distant Thunder" kicks off the album with driving beats and edgy guitar riffs. Brunig's vocals are quite similar to Neil Young and Bruce Springsteen as you can hear on songs such as "Hiding Place" or "Nehemiah Man." Taking the tempo down a bit to more of easy listening tempo, "What a Beautiful You" and "Silent Tears" are nicely performed with a sweet piano accompaniment. This album offers a selection of tempos and styles that draws you into wanting to hear more. Karl Stephen Brunig's "Distant Thunder" is an enjoyable gospel album and will charm listeners who like more of a rock/blues feel.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out Karl Stephen Brunig's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Another Level" by Kishane (Electronic Artist from New Jersey (NJ))

Kishane's new album, "Another Level" is electronica done right. The CD is comprised of 7 tracks, each with a new and seductive marriage of soul, funk, and electronic elements. The opening song "Sweat" starts strong with an enticing house pulse that is immediately engaging. Although the four-on-the-floor rhythm makes a mark on the album, songs like "Way Out" establish Kishane's chill tone that lends a tasteful balance to the mix. The influences here are broad, yet the result is a seamless and smooth blend of both moods and flavor. For fans of funk, hip-hop, and R&B, this solid electronica album will deliver and delight.

-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Kishane's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Monday, May 18, 2009

Featured Single

GNOS-TEL-JAH: BecomingBand Name: Gnos-tel-jah
Featured Single: Midnight Swang
Album: Becoming
Genre: Hip Hop
LISTEN  |  BUY

Thursday, May 14, 2009

"Up Against My Soul" by Hijira Kem (Electronic Artist from Oregon(OR))

Hijirah Kem's album, "Up Against My Soul," is an eclectic and edgy electronica experience. Kem describes himself as a "multi-media artist" who utilizes high-tech compositional collaging as his instrument and formula for channeling creativity. The music is complex in its individual and collective layering yet the elements mesh, creating a futuristic sound that gels. "Sand in my Head" includes an almost droning tone, created by a digital wind instrument that exudes an enticing and mysterious ambiance. "Chasing Wormholes" is a perfect title for the final song as resonating synths fall into rubble and re-emerge reborn. The album carries its own inertia and remains engaging through the end. Go on an escapade with Hijirah Kem and his latest disc, "Up Against My Soul," he'll show you the way.

-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jagwire HKX's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Another Way to Say Human Race" by Bold Monkey (Folk Artist from Alberta, Canada)

Bold Monkey's, "Another Way to Say Human Race," CD is a collection of contemporary folk songs from a singer-songwriter with a keen and well-honed sense of song craft and the voice to put them over. Employing only the sparest of guitar phrasing, Bold Monkey achieves a stripped-down, open mic coffeehouse intimacy to showcase compelling songs full of wry and incisive observations. Recalling the wordplay of an Elvis Costello or Joe Henry on songs such as "If You're Lucky" and "Enlightenment Is In Question," Bold Monkey's Dylan Joshua Edmiston successfully navigates the demands of the nowhere-to-hide song arrangements with a deft touch. On the Dylan-esquely titled, "Navigably Subsequent," comparisons to Costello is also deserved for the constricted and breathy vocal delivery that snakes in and out of light-as-air guitar fills and tastefully understated vibes accompaniment. While "Another Way to Say Human Race" is utterly contemporary in approach and sensibility, Bold Monkey's fine CD nevertheless resonates with the timelessness that true craftsmanship always renders.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Bold Monkey's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Open" by Northern Sound (Pop Artist from Denmark)

Northern Sound gives the listeners a delightful taste of what is yet to come on their newly released single, "Open." Breaking away from their tribute disc to Joni Mitchell, this duo has decided to collaborate on original compositions. The self-titled song "Open" is a wonderful sample of folk music with sweet, harmonious guitar. The melodic vocals are crisp and polished and balance well with the supporting instruments. The lyrics are thoughtful and capture the relaxed easy listening feeling. This fresh beginning of a new name and style will have all listeners of folk/pop wanting more. Fans of Joni Mitchell won't want to miss hearing "Open" and don't forget to keep a watch out for their full length album.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out NORTHERN SOUND's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Niceness" by Niceness (Folk Artist from San Francisco, California(CA))

A distinctive treasure of entertaining folk/pop songs is what you'll hear on this self-titled CD "Niceness." This entire disc is comprised of witty and magical lyrics and displays the colorful use of instrumentation. Kim O'Connor, who is a composer, vocalist, and performer, instantly introduces the listener to her expressive vocals on the very first song "Butterflies." Her vocals are crystal clear and have a stunning and unique vibe. She also has a great vocal range, as you can hear on "Shanghai," which shows off the versatility of her catchy melodies. "Fake Lake" is a vibrant and energetic tune splashed with those bright and brilliant lyrics. "Niceness" is a unique, creative, and humorous collection of easy listening folk/pop songs.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out Niceness's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"The 13th Generation" by The Diviners (Rock Artist from Los Angeles, California(CA))

Releasing their debut disc, "The 13th Generation," The Diviners stir up some artistic arrangements of pop/rock tunes. The chemistry between this four piece group is tight and shows they are a focused ensemble. This is a well produced album as you can hear the balance between the polished vocals and instruments. Keeping time to a steady beat "Heads & Tails" is a straight forward song with strong, solid guitar hits. "Mechanical" is just one song demonstrating the great harmonies this group can dish out. Easy flowing and hypnotic, "Soft" is complemented by soft strings while the lyrics are inspiring. If you're a fan of Coldplay or Snow Patrol you will definitely want to add "The 13th Generation" to your CD collection.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out The Diviners's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Lock My Feelings In A Jar" by Jeff Alan Ross (Classic Rock Artist from Los Angeles, California(CA))

No stranger to the music scene, Jeff Alan Ross, provides an impressive collection of 60's rock and roll and adult contemporary tracks on his latest disc "Lock My Feelings In A Jar." This album features great, original songs that reach well beyond the roots of yesteryear. The infectious opening track, "Love Is Raining Down" is burning with a guitar riff that's not only energetic but is played with intense precision. Not only is Ross a talented vocalist and guitarist but he really captures the audience with his skills on the piano as heard on "Angels In Disguise." As a writer, Ross has captured the essence of memorable lyrics that speak of emotional sentiments and melodies that will take you away to another time and place. A flashback to the '60's rock is heard on the tune "Sun Ain't Gonna Shine Today" with bouncy beats and strong harmonies. Fans of 60's rock won't be disappointed when hearing the classic throwback of rock and roll on the album, "Lock My Feelings In A Jar."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out Jeff Alan Ross's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Soul Complete" by Cagle & Nash (R&B Artist from North Carolina(NC))

Cagle & Nash serve up some delightful, easy listening R&B/jazz songs on their newest release "Soul Complete." This delectable disc features a collection of well written lyrics of love lost and found while showcasing lead vocals that are solid and well polished. The music flows with style and never falters while delivering the sounds of blues and the relaxing, fresh touch of R&B. An outstanding horn riff highlights "December" while the flute adds a soft and graceful touch. Another track which emphasizes the horn is "Information" as the solo is clean and crisp. Take note of the smooth and dynamic balance of harmonies with guest female vocalists on songs such as "Anywhere You Wanna Go" or "And Suddenly." If you like the songs of Steely Dan or Michael Buble, then "Soul Complete" is the next album you will want to hear.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out Cagle & Nash's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Sunday, May 10, 2009

"He Doesn't Like Me...(He Likes My Brother)" by Km Esty (Pop Artist from Toronto, Canada)

"He Doesn't Like Me… (He Likes My Brother)," the new CD-single from accomplished dance-pop songstress Kim Esty, is a delicious slice of Electronica worthy of the singer's clear affinity for the genre's queen bee, Madonna. Boasting 7 different remixes (by Whisper Twins vs SBD and Dr. Octavo Versace), "He Doesn't Like Me…" – in all its permutations, is as catchy as it is danceable. Esty's multi-layered vocals soaring over the thrust of the programmed beats creates a sonic wash perfect for the dance floor. And tossing off the clever hook line like a straight-faced Kirsty MacColl only adds to the fun. Both sly and infectious, and featuring instrumental remixes as well, Kim Esty's CD-single delivers on all fronts.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Kim Esty's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Lucky Guy" by Roy Jay (Folk Artist from Florida(FL))

Who said you can't judge a book or CD by its cover? Roy Jay's debut album "Lucky Guy" embodies the relaxed beach tone feeling depicted in his cover artwork. There are twists on this traditional upbeat folk music throughout this disc with tracks like "In and Out of Dreams" where hand-percussion and acoustic guitar are complimented by harmonious background vocals with sing along style. Although mostly leaning towards lighter atmospheres, "Time's Page," takes a ballad approach where subtlety and style come into play nicely. The musicianship is sophisticated and mature, but Jay doesn't take himself too seriously during "Prettiest Girl in Wal-Mart" with a comical trip to the super-store. Get out your sun block as "Lucky Guy" is Americana wrapped up in a beach towel and ready to hit the sand.

-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Roy JayE's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Thursday, May 7, 2009

"Visions" by Ade Ishs (Jazz Artist from Victoria, Australia)

Ade Ishs's first solo disc, "Visions," is a compilation of relaxing contemporary piano pieces. It is one thing to just play the piano, but it is another to give it life and Ade Ishs has done just that. Ishs's ability to demonstrate the expressive and emotional melodies throughout this album is clearly heard. Dreamy and pure, "Morning Vision" possesses wonderful rolling runs as Ishs's fingers gracefully glide over the keys, never missing a single one. Listeners will be able to hear the great dynamic balance on "Soil" as bass tones boldly hold the harmony while upper tones are strong and contoured. This album is well-produced, as the acoustic piano is clean and crisp while every nuance is defined. Ade Ishs's "Visions" is a wonderful album featuring soothing acoustic piano selections, and is definitely well-worth listening to.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
Check out ade ishs's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Wednesday, May 6, 2009

"Television" by Monkey Bones (Classic Rock Artist from Oklahoma(OK))

Monkey Bones and their debut CD, "Television" is an all-out rock attack of blazing guitars, impassioned vocals, biting lyrics, and the rock-solid kind of playing to bring it all home. Buoyed by a big beat-infused rhythm section firing on all cylinders, "Television" features 12 original songs that rarely let up. But despite an almost relentless fury, The Monkey Bones deftly balance many of their riff-heavy songs with effective and at times, subtle background vocals that add dimension and nuance to a style not always noted for such attributes. Notably, "Sunny Rays" shows the band can deliver the arena rock ballad as needed while "Hammer Comin' Down" offers up a rich vein of Southern Rock swagger. Delivered with a snarl & bravado as fitting as it is emblematic, the casually thrown out line "it's all fair in love and rock & roll" in the CD's closer, "Cross-Eyed," is more than a fair summary of "Television," it's a veritable battle cry.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Monkey Bones's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"You'll Like It" by Cardona (Pop Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

Cardona's CD, "You'll Like It" employs synthesizer, echo, some propulsive drumming and, on the opening title track, a jazzy dollop of electric piano, to push the dance-centric and uptown-leaning musical agenda of Brooklyn performer, Joe Cardona. This three song disc verily smacks of unbuttoned satin shirts, garish medallions, and dance floors ablaze under flashing club lights as Cardona croons in an almost drone-like and atonal - but loosely melodic, voice about the everyday "give and take" that is modern urban life. Eschewing deeply meaningful or profound lyrics, "You'll Like It" boasts the kinds of street-tough brashness of a testosterone-fueled Brooklyn club-crawler. For instance, on the title track, Cardona warbles, "the more you lick, the more you'll taste…and the more you'll like it," while on the unsentimental "Shut Up Baby," he refuses to pull any punches, singing "shut up, shut up, baby." Made for the dance floor by an artist with the milieu that fires his muse, the CD "You'll Like It" is a well played, well produced, multi-sonic exploration of the urban experience that is sure to inspire more than just booty-shaking.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Cardona's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites