Tag Archives: Punk

Exclusive Review: Jack Of None – “The Purpose Of The Moon” Album/EP

Posted in Album, Alternative, Careers, EDM, Electronic, Experimental, Grunge, Hard Rock, Indie, Industrial, Instrumental, Metal, Music Review, Punk, Rock by

There are some artists that come by that just casually impress you, or even passively intrigue you. But all that means is you have yet to listen to Jack Of None. A trio of composers rather than just a band. And when you indulge into the airwaves they unleash, you’ll know exactly what we mean. With a 7-track juggernaut concept album that brings creativity and theatrics to astronomically new levels, this quartet, with a female lead, is a plethora or sounds, feelings, emotions, anger, love, lust, secrets and energy all concocted in a way that dances on a line that touches on equal parts originality and familiarity; giving each listener their own interpretation of the music all while conveying the exact same sound quality, textures and anthemic authenticity.

Right from the jump, opener “Maman” is lounge-y, and versatile; giving us a very versatile taste of the female lead’s vocal deliveries that come in a vast array of formulas stemming from whispers, spoken word, aggressive singing styles, poetry that is ominous and everything else in between to keep you on your toes (or frozen to your seat). Subsequent track “Pirouettes Of Night” brings out a vibe similar in this nature. But when we get to track “Mr. Lumpus Decides To Die”, the band becomes far more much to life with more in-your-face participation, complimenting the vast array of the lead vocals that have already set the groundwork for this album. With a more Tim Burton feel at the helm of this masterpiece, the story-telling like verses are ever apparent and the use of keys/synths are nostalgically placed throughout this track’s composition in a way that truly puts an ominous atmosphere into the air that is both interesting and bone chilling; especially when the genius of the synths are placed in measured moments that are completely unexpected and unrelenting. The heavy guitar-driven chorus comprised of distinctive leads of this one also fills in many possible loose ends, if any at all, but just add realms of power behind the project altogether regardless; along with the male vocal touches. This is definitely the highlight of the album.

Other tracks from this conceptual masterpiece also have beyond-worth mentioning moments as well. “Dark The Star” has beautiful subtlety in its intro and provides symphony-like guitar melodies that truly make this song stand on its own. It drives the progression very strongly and even leads up to a high ranged female vocal lead that sets off the goosebumps. “Houdini Whodunnit” is a very busy song with futuristic industrial vibes that could perhaps reimagine the genre altogether. And the gorgeousness of “The Game Of Dying” has some of the most intricately based guitar harmonics a subtle set of measures could ask for. And after all topped off with guitar-only outro “Monsieur X”, we have a record that is conceptual, riveting, storybook worthy and highly acclaimed in its own right. For musician’s out there, no matter the instrument or skill level, “The Purpose Of The Moon” is a record that will breathe music into your soul…with purpose. For fans of greats like Nightwish, Steve Vai, Mr. Bungle and an array of artists that fall somewhere into that spectrum, Jack Of None will be added to your list of instant classics, instantly.

‘The Purpose of the Moon’ is currently available on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Music and several other digital music streaming platforms.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Todd Underwood – “Upside Down” Album/LP

Posted in Album, Alternative, Careers, Emo, Hard Rock, Indie, Music Review, Press Release, Punk, Rock by

Very few artists have the veteran musicianship that Todd Underwood possesses. A man of many genres, many bands over the years, sports radio, music on Dog Whisperer and a long successful career for the past 38 years, the Prescott, Arizona-based artist hits the peak of his game with his 13-track juggernaut ‘Upside Down’.

An album about unimaginable hardships and losses, this futuristic and progressive record breathes new life into the early-mid 2000s Emo/Alt-Indie sensibilities and truly encapsulates a signature sound that is versatile and crafty. If you’re a fan of groups like Circa Survive, Story of the Year, The Used, Knuckle Puck and Taking Back Sunday’s earlier records, then this album will be a new refreshing favorite that is bound to be added to your playlists in no time. Opening title track “Upside Down” is hauntingly visceral and introduces a modern twist to the Emo genre that is diligently executed. From atmospheric dueling guitars to high range vocal harmonies, this song sets the tone for what’s to come throughout the record’s duration. Jumping into “It’s My Fault”, this track enters into a heavier territory and makes excellent use of three part vocal harmonies topped off with smooth bass lines and overall a very tight-knit rhythm section.

Anchor single “Tell Me It Will Be Okay” is a brilliantly progressive song with fascinating chord progressions and vocal melodies. This track in particular has a math-rock feel with Jimmy Eat World vibes that really stands on its own as a track that has great balance and composure when it comes to originality and familiarity. “Love Like That” has an insatiable groove with a southern guitar riff that jams and slams away with absolute precision in its calibre. However, it’s the song “Merry-Go-Round of Pain” that reaches the next level of heavy. With down tuned riffs, intricate bass measures and Todd‘s futuristic vocal harmony style, this song is definitely one of the many standouts on this record.

This album is jam packed with atmospheric guitar leads, visceral vocal harmonies, powerfully clever lyrics and a signature style that has originality at its forefront and top notch production value in its entirety. It has many modern textures that are effective and utilized in all the right places to make this the gem it really is. But it also has older Alt/Indie elements that truly compliment the overall sensibilities that Todd Underwood conjures up. If you molded into the early-mid 2000s Warped Tour and Drive-Thru Records scene, then this record will be one of your favorites.

This is definitely one of the best records you’ll run into for 2021 and will definitely entice you to delve into Todd Underwood‘s career and discography. ‘Upside Down’ is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. This is a must-hear on all counts.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Perdido Nino – “Fallen From The Sky” Album

Posted in Album, Careers, Hard Rock, Indie, Metal, Music Review, Press Release, Rock by

Metal/Rock recording artist Perdido Nino has graced our platform before when we reviewed his previous album ‘Sparky Magnussen’s Irresponsible Effervescence’ about eight months ago – and we were completely blown away. True to form, Perdido is back with another full length banger, ‘Fallen From The Sky’, comprised of ten hard hitting tracks that encompass his uniquely multifaceted signature distinctive sound he is known for.

If you could see yourself listening to a crossbreed of Iron Maiden, Slayer and System Of a Down, then you will lose your mind to this record. Perdido, a multi musician that plays just about every instrument on this album, comes out swinging with in-your-face tour de force alongside his gain driven guitars, pounding rhythm section and multi layered high ranged charismatic vocals with perfect doses of chaotic screams and three part harmonies. Opening track “Black Shadows” is a prime example of this sound coming to fruition with a subtle ethnic acoustic guitar intro that eventually thrusts us into the metal onslaught that is Perdido Nino. Follow up track “Rising Stars” continues to unleash the fury and delivers more of the shreds, shrieks and melodically visceral vocal melodies. The double kick drum on this track is off the chain in several measures and Perdido’s distinctive finger tap leads really add character to this track along with more of his bombastic beats and blood curdling screams. He also serves up a Joe Satriani stylistic solo on this track and really adds several layers to the guitar work as the song’s duration plays out.

Another track worth mentioning is the cruising and chugging “Children Of The Moon”, a song with a boat load of vocal harmony leads with excellent chord and tempo parallels. This one is very catchy and crafty, utilizing the same signature metal formula but kicking it into high gear with well-executed guitar chugs. You’ll be thoroughly impressed with Perdido’s vocals on this song. One last song to shine a light on is the more upbeat “The Storm”, a much faster track where you can hear every music influence that Perdido harbors make its appearance with innovative implementations. This lightning fast banger is climactic and completely explosive, carrying the chaos from beginning to end with guttural screams, harmonized finger tapping and wailing tempos consisting of that furious double kick we’ve heard throughout this record deliver the fireworks. For all you true metalheads looking to raise the bar, this track will satisfy you. It’s the climax of the record – the eye of the storm!

All metal fans, no matter which era you hail from, would be insane to sleep on this record. It’s unique, distinctive, flashy and takes no prisoners when it comes to musicianship factors. All ten tracks ooze with unmatched talent and brings many classic elements to a full fledge metal sound that also isn’t afraid to explore many innovative ideas. This might be your first time hearing Perdido Nino, but after you give this record a listen, it certainly won’t be your last either. Prepare to have your mind blown to bits. You can get your copy of ‘Fallen From The Sky’ now on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and all other digital music streaming platforms.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Dar.Ra – “Kings & Serfs” EP

Posted in Alternative, Careers, EP, Hard Rock, Indie, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, Rock by

Known for his distinctive Indie Rock style and dynamically crafty approach, London-based recording artist Dar.Ra began hitting the ground running as a solo artist after the release of his debut album ‘Soul Hours’ in 2009 – quickly garnering him an insatiable following and critical acclaim through many sectors of the music market. Now, with the recent release of his EP ‘Kings & Serfs’ this year in 2021, Dar.Ra proves that his signature sound continues to reach new heights in the Rock music realm and has truly manifested into a multifaceted artist that raises the bar with every release.

Comprised of three catchy and anthemic tracks, Dar.Ra on this record diligently showcases several angles of his artistic merit and tastefully combines several crucial Rock elements that touch on originality and familiarity; giving each listener a taste of something fresh yet still identifiable. Opening track “Fake It Till You Make It” comes out swinging with a magnetic energy that could easily satisfy any fan from just about any Rock era. From gain-heavy driven guitar progressions to powerfully projected mid-to-high range vocal melodies, this solid number combines grittiness and catchiness in a way that compliments and parallels each other. If The Sex Pistols combined their style with Led Zeppelin’s ‘Houses of the Holy’, then this song is the type of sound you’d get. Follow-up track “Londinium” is more anthemic and really dives deep into Dar.Ra’s more nostalgic side. It explores his songwriting style more intimately and truly gives you that visceral listening experience that has become very rare in today’s more modern music market. This song is not only structured brilliantly, but has a pacing that really showcases the versatility that this record possesses and easily brings the stronger musicianship factors to the forefront.

Closing track “Sweet As” is a charismatic and rhythmic tune that ties the EP together with a sweet cherry on top. The catchiness in both the chord progressions and vocal melodies once again intertwine in a way that is undoubtedly effective and apparent. The story-telling verses are perfectly executed and truly solidifies Dar.Ra’s style in a way that showcases many angles of his musical talent. Overall, ‘Kings & Serfs’ is a brilliant first impression for any avid Rock fan that is just discovering Dar.Ra or hearing him for the first time. It’s the type of record with real staying power where it stays with you even long after it’s over. It’ll also entice you to dive deeper into Dar.Ra’s career, discography, and will likely build up your anticipation to see what tricks he has up his sleeve in his future releases. You can find ‘Kings & Serfs’ on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. You’ll be more than glad you gave this one a listen.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Blonde Furniture – “When You Sleep” & “Start The Revolution” Singles

Posted in Album, Alternative, Careers, Grunge, Hard Rock, Indie, Music Review, Press Release, Punk, Rock, Rockabilly, Single by

The veteran musicians of Connecticut-based Alt-Rockers Blonde Furniture have been insatiably active since 1983 and have put out a vast array of tunes that have drawn in fans from several Rock-infused eras. Flash forward to 2020 after an extensive career, the band recently put out their most recent record ‘Music For Early Century Modern’ which has amassed a new generation of listeners and critical acclaim. After listening to two of the album’s anchor singles, we can see (and hear) exactly why.

First single “When You Sleep” is a grungy and rockabilly-infused track with a cruising rhythm section and crafty, dirty guitars with a flavorful crunch. This catchy song is not only well written, but full of tastefully nostalgic measures that will start the mosh pit in no time. If the Dead Kennedys and REM got together for a jam session, it would definitely sound something like this. Second single “Start The Revolution” is amazingly anthemic and has knockout versatile vocals by singer/songwriter and founding member Bill Dumas, who shines brightly with all his musical glory on this track. This 5 minute song is rhythmically clever, undeniably melodic and truly has a calibre of originality that stands on its own completely. This track in particular is a game changer and will definitely entice you to listen to the rest of the record with undivided attention.

If this is your first time listening to Blonde Furniture, then these singles will win you over instantly. This band’s legacy is something to behold and this record is direct evidence of the unwavering talent they’ve brought to many ears since they formed decades ago. You can check out both singles below and the album is available on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music and several other digital music streaming platforms.

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