Tag Archives: Piano

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.

Connect/Listen:

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Exclusive Artist Review: Dizmation – “Aves Nocturna: 1, 2 & 3” EP

Posted in Album, Careers, EDM, Electronic, EP, Experimental, Indie, Instrumental, Music Review, Press Release, Single, Soundtrack by

Emerging from the musical landscapes of Dublin, Artist/Producer Dizmation continues to flourish throughout the Indie market with his distinctive and innovative signature sound. Known for his diligently detailed production techniques and multifaceted song structures, Dizmation throughout his career has put together several releases that showcase multiple angles of his skill sets which highlight his insatiably crafty production as well as performance value, and how strongly projecting how effectively they parallel each other. Now in 2021, with the recent release of his newest EP ‘Aves Nocturna: 1, 2 & 3’, Dizmation continues to raise the bar to reach new heights with his highly innovative structures and multi layered measures; proving that this is easily his best effort yet.

Structured into three interconnected chapters (1, 2 and 3), the ‘Aves Nocturna’ trilogy peels back many versatile layers as each track’s duration plays out. Part one, titled “To Owls”, starts out very rhythmic, atmospheric and effectively showcases well-executed melodies that have strong staying power. The first half of the 5+ minute runtime brings the listener on a hypnotically visceral journey into futuristic soundscapes and climactic buildups. The synth leads are very anthemic and really carry the torch throughout the song’s detailed structure, all while paralleling a rhythmic and progressive tempo with several percussive textures. The second half of this track brings every layer to the forefront along with an accompaniment of mid-to-high range vocal melodies, making their highly regarded first appearance on the record. These vocal parts are not only brilliantly written, but the composition itself at this stage of the song brings a sense of subtlety that really highlights Dismation’s songwriting ability. Overall, Part One really sets the tone for the rest of the EP and strongly grabs your undivided attention.

Part Two of the ‘Aves Nocturna’ trilogy, titled “To A Distant Star”, blends an atmospheric piano progression with a synth/string lead alongside textures of acoustic guitars, percussion additives and a smooth, punchy baseline that ties the structure together. This song’s aura is very dreamlike in the first half, then eventually cruises into an energetically uptempo climax that is also accompanied by high range vocal melodies. This song showcases a brilliant demonstration of continuity and continues to highlight several angles of Dizmation’s performance and production value.

Part three, titled “We Live Here”, operates a little more like a progressively Indie ballad, but with a more anthemic approach. The half-time tempo in the verses blend diligently with the uptempo chorus and really shines light on the melody-driven chord progressions as well as dynamically layered rhythm section. This track in particular brings the entirety of Dizmation’s signature sound to the forefront full circle, tying together the trilogy in a way that is effective and impressionable for anyone listening to his music perhaps for the first time. All three songs on this trilogy play equally vital roles and strongly demonstrate the multifaceted angles of talent that went into them. It’s a record that truly showcases Dizmation’s musical vision and keeps the listener strongly engaged and invested from beginning to end. The EP is available exclusively on BandCamp and will easily become one of your favorites of 2021.

Connect/Listen:

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Exclusive Artist Review: Shannie Ross – “Come Home” Single

Posted in Careers, Hip Hop, Indie, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, R&B, Rap, Single, Soul by

Emerging from the south side of Houston in Texas, R&B/Pop rising starlet Shannie Ross has been making a prominent name for herself in the music realm since the age of fourteen when she dropped her debut single. She’s been an independent powerhouse since her career manifested and has demonstrated through a vast array of releases that her signature sound is authentic and her songwriting ability is far above the industry standard. Beloved by many fans with drawn comparisons to artist heavyweights like Mary J Blige and Aaliyah, Shannie Ross has sustained an unwavering presence in the music world and has truly showcased her musical versatility over the years with many successful releases, and now in 2021, she has raised the bar even more with her newest anthemic single “Come Home”.

Shannie effectively shines on this track from multiple angles and really delivers a wholesome performance with her charismatic lyrics and multifaceted vocal range. Comprised of a soulful and swagger piano progression, Shannie’s vocals take center stage and really delve deep into her crafty delivery and artistic merit. It has today’s modern sensibility but also captures that 90s nostalgia that contributed to one of the more crucial R&B eras, making it the powerful genre it is today. This song’s production value is also on the top of its game and doesn’t resort to any gimmicks or cheap tactics. It pays attention to the fine detail and goes over every measure with fine toothed comb. It’s an authentic approach with a strong writing structure, giving Shannie Ross all the room she needs to serve up tasteful vocal melodies from start to finish without missing a beat.

One thing about this song especially is the staying power – where it stays with you even long after it’s over. And before you know it, you’ll be delving deep into Shannie Ross’s career and discography, easily adding her to your list of favorites in 2021. This song really grabs your undivided attention and Shannie’s musical ability is showcased very strongly throughout the track’s duration. You’ll simply fall in love at first listen. “Come Home” is available now on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music and several other digital music streaming platforms. You’ll be more than glad you gave it a listen. It may be your first, but it definitely won’t be last.

Connect/Listen:

© Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

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.

Connect/Listen:

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

© Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Exclusive Artist Review: Juan Manuel Ruiz – “Cutouts” Album

Posted in Album, Careers, Classical, Emo, Indie, Instrumental, Music Review, Press Release, Soundtrack by

Hailing from the landscapes of Spain, recording artist and composer Juan Manuel Ruiz began his journey into the market when he released his debut album ‘Will’ in 2018. Since that time, Ruiz has manifested into a multifaceted and versatile artist with distinctively glistening compositions and melodies, creating a signature sound that is dynamic, emotional and progressively innovative. Ruiz throughout 2019 and 2020 would continue to write, compose and put together another album of songs that would enhance his stylization and showcase his compositions in a way that is genuine and effective; subsequently raising the bar since his debut. Now, in 2021, he has brought these songs to fruition with his newest sophomore release ‘Cutouts’, comprised of 10 visceral tracks that are crafty, creative and completely self-written and produced.

One thing you’ll immediately notice on this album is Ruiz’s composition style and ability to construct a strong melody. He takes a distinctive chord progression and diligently enhances its foundation into a glowing instrumental that really gives you a visceral listening experience. Opening title track “Cutouts” is a direct example of this and really showcases the anthemic aura that encompasses just about every song on the album. With the production value adding textures of chorus and reverb to give the song a more subtle tone, this track dynamically emanates passion, emotion and moods combined with rhythmic touches. It’s one of the unforgettable songs on this record and really casts a crucial spotlight on Ruiz’s musicianship factors. Another notable song with a similar approach is “In My Dreams”, which easily compliments the opening track in a very effective way, delving deeper into Ruiz’s overall signature sound. This song especially has an emotion-driven melody that brings out many angles of his talent, and really captures a melodic atmosphere that is heard throughout this album’s duration. These first two tracks start the album out very strong and really set the tone for what’s to come in the subsequent songs.

Another track that really grabs at your attention is “Fata Morgana”. Definitely one of the more upbeat tracks on the record, this song has a haunting melody that is ominous and mysterious. It’s a multi layered song with colorful interludes and transitions, giving it a more story-telling feel similar to a film score or soundtrack. This track especially explores many facets of Ruiz’s songwriting structures and really casts a spotlight onto the production value and artistic merit that is made apparent throughout the album. It’s a diligently crafted piece that is highly versatile and effectively showcases Ruiz’s skills both as a musician and producer. Overall, ‘Cutouts’ is a triumphant effort that will capture many musical hearts and fans of rising composers. It’s a glistening follow-up to his debut record that continues to set the bar higher as each fan discovers him. You can get your copy of the album on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. You’ll be more than glad we recommended it.

Listen/Connect:

© Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved