Tag Archives: Bands

Exclusive Artist Review: Polyphonic Exophilia – “Volume 1” EP

Posted in Album, Alternative, Blues, Careers, EP, Experimental, Funk, Fusion, Indie, Instrumental, Jazz, Music Review, Press Release by

Hailing from the musical landscapes of Hadeland in Norway, Progressive/Alternative collective Polyphonic Exophilia (abbreviated as PPXP) are comprised of several elite musicians with years of collective experience under their belts. On top of being a band, they also run a fully functional recording studio as well as an independent label, operating as a unit that is 100% authentic and DIY – doing just about everything themselves. Known for their very progressive Alt-Indie signature sound, the PPXP collective has put together a dynamic EP series that is comprised of three releases that will take place throughout 2021, and their debut effort from this series is their debut EP ‘Volume 1’.

Solidified as chapter one of the EP series, ‘Volume 1’ is comprised of four anthemic tracks and sequences that really showcase PPXP’s musicianship factors, production value and artistic merit. Each song offers up several flavorful soundscapes that put effective spotlights on each member’s ability as well as the band’s collective style. Opening track “Crocodile Tears” is a perfect example of their progressive formula with several genre textures which includes their Alt-Indie flavor alongside diligently crafted Jazz, Fusion, and Funk elements. This track has an insatiable groovy rhythm section and utilizes dynamic tempos and time signatures that really add crucial elements of their writing style. The lead instruments contain crafty guitar melodies, atmospheric keyboard leads and smooth solid bass lines that tie it all together. The song has a jammy feel with several measures of buildup that eventually lead to a powerful climax, giving the listener a sense of anticipation that is very engaging as well as exciting as the grooves play out. The unique skat-like vocals are cleverly written alongside a melodic duel female vocal, really adding to the flavorful components that are heard throughout the track’s duration. Overall, this track starts the EP out very strongly and also sets the tone for the rest of the record as well.

Second track is “Omoi”, another dynamically rhythmic track with a more uptempo groove. Once again we have a heavy presence of keyboard and guitar leads that really lead the way in terms of melody and progression. This track also has atmospheric and spacey textures, giving the song significantly more ambience in the overall aura. This track is a little more subtle, but is just as effective and well-written. Third track “Post-Traumatic Growth” is another jazzy and atmospheric track that highlights more of the band’s dynamic vocal leads and melodies. Their charismatic approach on this track is cleverly executed and really adds several multi layers to the mix. It’s another brilliant chapter to the EP that highlights PPXP’s signature sound. Closing track “Even Monkeys Fall Out Of Trees” is a groovy number that effectively ties the EP together into one solid anthem. This song combines almost every element from the previous three and still offers up touches of new flavors. The simple yet groovy bass line really carries a lot of weight on this track alongside an ambient piano melody that highlights the song’s key signature. This is also another jammy tune that plays out with solid buildups and climaxes, keeping you engaged with every instrument from start to finish. It’s a brilliant closing track that will easily entice you to start the EP over again for another round of each song.

This debut EP really puts PPXP on the musical map and is a record that is completely ahead of its time. Their craft is very multifaceted and versatile throughout each track’s duration and really highlights each members’ ability in several crucial ways. This EP will definitely have you anticipating what the other two subsequent EPs have in store – but regardless, it has insatiable staying power and will easily become one of your favorites of 2021 so far. ‘Volume 1’ released in June and is currently available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Equal Frequencies – “Karma” Album/LP

Posted in Album, Alternative, Careers, EDM, Electronic, Experimental, Fusion, Hip Hop, Indie, Instrumental, Jazz, Music Review, Pop, Rap, Rock, Soundtrack by

Hailing from Huddersfield in the landscapes of the UK, husband and wife duo Equal Frequencies have been hitting the ground running in the music realm for over 20 years and have collaborated on countless bands and projects. With the success and critical acclaim of their previous two albums, their third effort ‘Karma’ is easily their best yet and really showcases the duo’s musicianship factors and versatile artistic merit.

Known for their controversial lyrics, progressive Indie/Jazz signature sound and atmospheric song structures, Equal Frequencies have put together a record that is multifaceted, multi layered and hypnotically ambient with their tasteful blend of electronically infused Pop, Indie, World Fusion and Hip Hop elements. Comprised of eleven powerful and wholesome tracks, this soundtrack-worthy effort has a plethora of soundscapes that truly stand out among today’s contemporary artists from a similar calibre. Opening title track “Karma” is very rhythmic and really sets the tone for the rest of the album’s duration in a way that is cohesive and effective. You can immediately hear the melodic coherence emanating from each lead instrument while the climactic buildup throughout the measures are cleverly executed and finely tuned. It’s a solid strong first impression that will garner your undivided attention. Follow-up song “Is This How You Want It To Be” captures the same ambience and atmosphere but introduces the melody-driven vocals and crafty lyrics with a more progressive guitar progression. This track really showcases the duo’s production value very effectively and really brings the songwriting factors to the forefront. The vocals are intelligent, intellectual and thought provoking, giving the listener a more visceral listening experience and message that perfectly parallels the melodic measures throughout the song’s duration.

Another notable track on this record is “Dystopia”, another rhythmically progressive song that showcases strong vocal melodies and guitar leads. The more driven tempo really carries the rhythm section on every measure and enhances all the melodic leads in all the right places. The pacing is more carefully written and you can hear the attentiveness to detail is made very apparent. And lastly, closing track “Land Of My Dreams” is very anthemic and brilliantly blends cohesive elements of progressive Hip Hop and Indie Jazz with a Pop sensibility. The piano landscape is beautifully written and really sustains the atmospheric aura that this album passionately displays. The dynamic Hip Hop tempo blends with the melodic layers and this song in particular really showcases Equal Frequencies from several angles. It balances originality and familiarity quite strongly and doesn’t outdo itself in any way. It goes out on a high note and closes out the album with a signature touch that’ll have you doing a deep dive into the Equal Frequencies discography.

‘Karma’ is well ahead of its time and really grabs your attention both musically and lyrically. Both musicians contribute almost intimidatingly strong musicianship factors and the overall production value is something far above the industry standard for an indie release. It’s an intelligent record that’ll make it quite difficult to pick a favorite song from. The album released on June 26th and is currently available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. We can’t recommend this one highly enough.

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•Twitter: https://WWW.TWITTER.COM/EQUALFREQS
•Album Link: https://www.junodownload.com/products/equal-frequencies-karma/5158348-02/

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Exclusive Artist Review: Uncle Brent & The NoStone – “Malibu” Single

Posted in Alternative, Blues, Careers, Country, Indie, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, Rock, Single by

Packed full of twangy guitar riffs, a cruising rhythm section and spot on vocal melodies with distinctive harmonies, Uncle Brent’s newest single “Malibu” comes out swinging from all angles aiming to please any Blues-Rock fan that comes into earshot of the catchy tune. Uncle Brent is definitely no ordinary artist, he loves to come up with tunes that are honest, personal, and with a clever focus on storytelling. His music is not just entertainment, but a true example of what it is like to sing and play from the heart. Solo or along with his band, he creates a diverse and passionate sound, tipping the hat off to iconic artists the likes of Tom Petty, The Refreshments, Whiskey Myers, Reckless Kelly, and many others of a similar calibre. Uncle Brent has been active in the Austin, TX scene for over a decade now and still continues to hit the ground running with his eclectic and catchy sound; drawing an insatiable fan base since his inception and continues to do so.

Now with 2021’s Summer months finally here, Uncle Brent & The NoStone have brought us a perfect single to jam to all season long. Accompanied by a dynamically crafty lyric video, “Malibu” is a twangy and rhythmic track that puts a Rock & Roll boost into an eclectic Bluesy approach. Kicking off with a high energy guitar riff, “Malibu” immediately entices the ear with its incredibly catchy chord progressions and rhythmically gratifying drums and bass, leading us into verses that shine a spotlight on Uncle Brent’s mid-to-high range vocal melodies that are well placed and punctually performed. Eventually steering us into a chorus that lays a brilliant foundation to catchiness, blending tastefully integrated harmonies and lead guitar shreds. This is a story-telling song, one that really invests your undivided attention and the pristine production value really rounds out the signature flavor. It’s catchy, it’s crafty and it’s a perfect summer song.

“Malibu” also has something that we don’t see too often in today’s modern music market – staying power. Where the song has the power to stay with you even after it’s over. You’ll be singing this chorus in your head, you’ll be putting it on repeat. Regardless, Uncle Brent has put out a gem, and you’ll hear him shine from the very first listen. Old fans will be surprised, and if you’re a new fan, then I guarantee this’ll be the track to win you over. “Malibu” officially releases on June 18th and will be available on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. This one will definitely be your summer anthem.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Asterous – “Asterous” EP

Posted in Alternative, Careers, EP, Hard Rock, Indie, Industrial, Metal, Music Review, Press Release, Rock, Single by

It’s rare in today’s modern music realm that you find a powerhouse duo quite like Vancouver’s Asterous. Comprised of two highly versatile and multifaceted musicians, this duo has recently put together a debut self-titled EP that is far beyond the industry standard. Their signature sound is heavy, in-your-face, melodic and sensual all at once in a way that is surreal and insatiably crafty; delivering a visceral experience that will have you in awe upon first listen.

With hypnotic female fronted vocals at the helm of the lead melody structures, this duo, with the male component diligently crafting every guitar riff, progression and mind-blowing shreddy leads, Asterous delivers a very innovative, dark, ominous and tranquil record that combines many crucial elements that will easily captivate old school fans of melodic metal but with today’s modern music sensibility. The songs are surreal and dreamlike. Opening track “The Fall” is a perfect example of what their signature style brings to the table. With dreamy female vocal leads and very effective 3rd and 5th harmonies paralleling the melody vocal structure, you get an immediate idea of how the tone is set throughout the record. The tour-de-force guitar leads and layers, which could even draw comparisons to some of the greats like Steve Vai and Joe Satriani, are quite anthemic and beyond well executed when it comes to the chord structuring, dynamic progressions and distinctive guitar harmony leads. I admit, I wasn’t even expecting to hear something like this and even had to backtrack on this song to truly intake some of the brilliance that I was hearing throughout the track’s duration.

Another notable track is “Murder The Machine”, a bit more upbeat but still delivers all the tasty riffs and melodies we got to hear in the opening track. The deep male backup vocals bring forth an extra layer of that dark and ominous edge, and is done tastefully enough in a way where it doesn’t distract you from any part of the song. This track also has more solid shred-worthy guitar work with even some solo measures that are perfectly integrated into the song. Another notable part of this track is the anthemic piano interlude towards the end of the song, closing it out with a sense of ambience, atmosphere, and aura as if it’s finishing a chapter. Kinda of like a calm after the storm, bringing it all to a conclusion that is mysterious, beautiful and fulfilled.

EP closer “Afterthought” is a song with a beautiful piano rendition and chorus-integrated vocals that really showcase the authenticity between the Asterous duo as both musicians and creators. It’s a short but surreal song with background strings that really closes the book to the many powerful chapters we experienced throughout the EP’s duration and really leaves the listener in awe with just how versatile, climactic and wholesome this EP. This song is the soothing back rub after waking up from the dream sequences from the prior songs. The whole EP is a surreal experience and this closing track really brings you to a tranquility unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.

Asterous is definitely not a band to sleep on by any means. The EP has a plethora of innovation, natural talent, musicianship, artistic merit, and moods that will lift you up lighter than air due to its tranquility and nostalgic presence. Who knows what they will come up with next, but if it’s destined to be better than this EP, then my undivided attention is very ready for it. You can get your copy of the EP on Apple Music, Spotify, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. I promise you’ll thank us later.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Scarecrowz – “Skywalk” & “Nightwalker” Singles

Posted in Album, Alternative, EP, Grunge, Hard Rock, Hardcore, Indie, Music Review, Press Release, Rock, Single by

Emerging from the prominent Canadian music scene in Ottawa, hard rockers Scarecrowz have been on an uphill career path since their formation two decades ago; utilizing a uniquely heavier signature sound with crucial elements of classic rock that is dynamically integrated with today’s more modern sensibility. The band serves up a cleverly versatile style that has reminiscence to industry Rock legends like Alice In Chains and Godsmack, but overall have developed a calibre of Rock that is solidified, original, but still possesses that nostalgic presence that every Rock fan yearns for from several unforgettable Rock eras – which has earned them widespread critical acclaim and awards including charting the #15 spot in Germany in 2005, a nomination for an independent music award for their anchor song “Reborn” in 2015 and their song “Angry” played on prominent radio station The Bear 106.9 FM.

Now in 2021, Scarecrowz have shown no sign of slowing down and in fact have truly innovated their overall sound, style and presence over the years in a way that has manifested into a unit that is even more multifaceted. And we hear direct evidence of that from their most highly anticipated 11-track juggernaut ‘Dusk From Another Dawn’. First anchor single on this record is “Skywalk”, a very anthemic and crafty tune with many powerful twists and turns as the track plays out. The solid guitar progressions have very effective sets of multi layers and transitional chord progressions, leaving the structure open for some very powerful vocal leads that encompass the major-key signature and traditional Rock rhythms. The chorus’s vocal melody choices are by far the essential standout on this track and really helps set the tone for what the rest of the album may have in store.

The second standout track on this record is “Nightwalker”, a more upbeat and charismatically rhythmic song that has a commanding presence most rhythm and rotund low end sections tend to have. This track, though fitting amongst today’s modern Rock realm, really indulges in the solidified 90s stylization that hits home with every nostalgic feeling that particular era once gave us. Scarecrowz during this song especially really showcases just how versatile their songwriting abilities are. “Nightwalker” is definitely a gem on this album and is diligently crafted among each team player/musician. No matter what heavier Rock era entices you, Scarecrowz will undoubtedly become part of your favorites for 2021 thus far – and will continue to be a band to keep close tabs on.

You can check out both singles as well as the rest of the ‘Dusk Of Another Dawn’ album on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms.

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