Tag Archives: Reggae

Exclusive Artist Review: Roots Asylum – “Take Her Back, Louisiana” Single

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

Back on the scene with a catchy anthemic single, Michigan-based quintet Roots Asylum continue to hit the ground running with their newest single “Take Her Back, Louisiana”.

Diligently comprised of atmospheric guitar melodies, silky smooth bass lines and radio-worthy vocal choices, the five-piece group has put together a solid tune that resonates with just about any fan of folk-infused Roots Rock sensibilities. Utilizing a classic mid-western style with authentic production and performance value, Roots Asylum engages in a signature sound that touches on equal parts originality and familiarity; giving their audience a taste of something fresh yet still identifiable. Guitar/Vocalist Jimmy Macaroni really captivates the musical mind with this song by bringing authentically gifted vocal melodies to the forefront and carrying the torch with his carefully crafted leads. The band brings this sound together with great precision and really encapsulates an aura that makes this track an effective and impressionable gem.

The song definitely sustains staying power, where it has the power to stay with you even after it’s over. It also gets better with each listen and will definitely entice you to dive deeper into the band’s discography and career. You will discover a great unity of talent when listening to “Take Her Back, Louisiana” and Roots Asylum‘s breed of Roots Rock is definitely a standout of their calibre in all the right ways. The single is available now on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms.

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Exclusive Artist Review: Rootspence & The Groove Makers – “Judgement Day” LP

Posted in Album, Alternative, Blues, Careers, Dance, EDM, Electronic, Funk, Fusion, Hard Rock, Hip Hop, Indie, Jazz, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, R&B, Rap, Reggae by

Now here’s a group you’ll rarely discover in your lifetime. A band of versatility, nostalgia and unwavering talent that showcases multiple angles of their signature stylization, Rootspence & The Groove Makers are a seven-member Mozambican powerhouse tackling their own crossbreed of Reggae/Pop/R&B and Fusion; done in a way that is both multilayered and multifaceted. And if this description entices you, then you will lovingly feel the bliss of this group’s musical power with the fruition of their latest 8-track juggernaut Judgement Day.

With their formation setting its groundwork in 2015 by Helio “Rootspence” Sixpence (vocalist/frontman) in Maputo, Mozambique, The Groove Makers quickly began hitting the ground running and have no intention of stopping anytime soon. The Groove Makers are very well known for their jazzy, African-guitar style and pop approach to reggae featuring live musical instruments. The fusion imprint results from the diverse rhythmic mastery from the band members, entailing Hard Rock, Gospel, Afro-fusion, Kizomba, Jazz and Hip-hop. And when you put this multi-genre concoction together, you get Judgement Day. Eight songs with top notch production and performance value with more layers and hooks to go around. With undeniably catchy choruses embracing every track, it’s songs like “Everything”, “My Heart” and “Beautiful Smile” that truly give The Groove Makers the staying power; the power to stay with you even after the song is over, because you’ll be getting these choruses completely stuck in your head with no escape.

The musicianship factors are completely off the charts with this album. With smooth bass lines, a tight-knit rhythm section with soulful anthemic vocal energy and every other additive each member brings to the table, Judgement Day simply is a record of not just pure talent, but perfectionism too. Every nook and cranny is covered, and with slick guitar progressions and stylistic keyboard parts with on-the-mark backup vocals, Judgement Day also proves that the band is fully comprised of not just top of the line musicians, but principal songwriters as well. Whether it’s on a cruise ship or stadium, The Groove Makers have put together a wholesome sound that never leaves a stone unturned, and that’s exactly what is comprised on Judgment Day.

Throughout their five year career, the band has already acquired a vast array of accomplishments including a 2020 WAM Award Nominee (Best Reggae Music), 7 Times Reverb Nation Featured Artist, Selected for Global Home Music Fest, SongDew TV, Brews Radio, and several others. Rootspence & The Groove Makers are one of those bands you become stoked about after discovering them. And after you take a listen to Judgment Day yourself, you’ll see (and hear) exactly why. The album is currently available on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, and several other digital music streaming platforms.

For Roots the most rewording thing in the word is “that feeling, you know… when you look deep into someone’s eyes and you just feel great… you don’t care about what you lost because you believe sharing, giving and mending souls is just the right and greatest thing to do”. Baptized Roots as translation of his reasoning style. Paradoxically idealist and man with feet on the ground, he advocates love, respect, compassion, harmony, equality and peace. -Rootspence

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Exclusive Review: In Your Grave – “Enemy Lines” EP

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

When it comes to an in-your-face hard hitting rhythm section, blistering guitars and brutal vocals reminiscent of Phil Bozeman similarities, that’s when you know you have something truly special. And that my friends, is Utah County ball busters In Your Grave. A band that not only formed throughout many other members from their respective scene, but a perfect one at that. As far as we see it – these guys are an absolute all star lineup. And amazingly, have only been active for just a year. That’s why our ears couldn’t quite believe what we were hearing.

Looking for heavy? Check. Looking for crushing drum grooves? Check. Blend in some seriously high gained, crisp guitar tones, bone crushing bass parts and fire breathing screams, and In Your Grave is in your radar. Enemy Lines, which just recently released on December 20th, is comprised of five strongly put-together tracks from ridiculously talented band members that delve into heavy territories that draw the perfect line between metal radio rock stations and a stylization that just might make it too brutal. And trust me, that’s a compliment. Intro tracks like “Mushroom Cloud” instantly give you that goosebumpy vibe of just where this track is gonna lead. Its drawn out build up is ominous, visceral and truly encompasses an aura of both curiosity and anticipation at the same time. And by the time the vocals burst in, both ends provide that satisfactory – we are going for a ride and it’s one that is not going to be slowing down anytime soon.

Subsequent tracks like “MKultra” and title track “Enemy Lines” use similar formulas but actually do more in solidifying their signature sound than anything. The pounding rhythm section really carries the band forward and assists with providing that brutality a band like In Your Grave has manifested into; except this time a lot more versatility, multifaceted vocal deliveries and guitar chord techniques have been implemented, adding to the ingredients that have already given this band their own calibre among other bands with a similar aura. But make no mistake – these guys have something going just for them, and will be a very tough act to follow after shows.

Last two tracks “Foundations” and “Establishment” are personal favorites for sure. From anvil-hitting tempo changes, synth parallels and all around additional elements, these two hit just as hard and also add levels of intrigue we hoped to hear at some point. First of all, everyone loves a furious breakdown, and these closing tracks have plenty of that. Secondly, guitar intros on tracks like closer “Establishment” is the kind of garnishment that could easily throw this record into whole new levels; and it does. What begins may end differently but everything in between ties it all together – just like this entire EP does. It’s a brutal set of 5 tracks that grab you by the throat and refuse to let go.

It’s been quite some time since we have actually run into an album like Enemy Lines, but once you take a listen yourself, that same blown-away feeling will commence. It may not be heavy enough for White Chapel, but definitely surpasses Killswitch Engage easily; even though I love both of those bands. You will not be disappointed with In Your Grave and you’ll be kicking yourself in the ass for not discovering them earlier. You can pick up a copy of the EP on Spotify, Apple Music, iTunes, and any other digital music streaming platforms.

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Exclusive Artist Interview: Winchester 7 & the Runners

Posted in Acoustic, Album, Alternative, Americana, Blues, Careers, Experimental, Folk, Funk, Hard Rock, Indie, Music Review, Partnership, Pop, Press Release, Rock by

When it comes to solid rockers like Winchester 7 & the Runners, a truly epic and international projectional form of musical magic would eventually manifest as the centerpiece to bring a brilliant entity together through both talent and dedication. Reminiscent of industry classic heavyweights like The Rolling Stones, The Black Keys and a slew of others with a similar calibre, each member of the band’s personal influences would eventually get each key player to find destiny to cross paths to begin a signature sound that is insatiably unique and versatile. Basically, W7 & the Runners would seek musical refuge, but there’s a long story involved. And today, we get the opportunity to ask them some relevant questions about all things band and member related, and are more than excited to do so. But first, let’s give some insight into the bands origins, in-betweens; past present and future by taking a glance into their respected bio.

When Phil Voorhees (bass) and Jack Kane (drums) decided to pull a runner, they didn’t expect that the one to come after them would be Winchester 7 (vocals, ukulele). None of them imagined that when their paths finally crossed, a few bass notes and halting drum beat would be met with a rocking ukulele reply, vocal harmony, and…music. Together, Winchester 7 & the Runners, have since found that a forgotten world, beyond the dome welcomes their music and films even as their friendship grows. Out of Atlanta, Georgia-based (home to Winchester 7), Sanctuary Studio; though runners, Voorhees now resides in Amsterdam and Kane is itinerant within the United Kingdom; the trio deliver their unique blend of indie garage rock with alternative, classic, and surf influences.

•How many years have you guys been active?

Well, despite purposeful appearances “we” are a one-man band and have been active since about 2017.

•Where are you guys currently based out of? And how is the scene out there?

Atlanta, GA though our bio includes bassist, Phil Voorhees being out of Amsterdam and drummer, Jack Kane, being itinerant to the United Kingdom. Overall, things are quarant-errific, though I’m hopeful for things to become more typically active in 2021.

•How’d you guys come up with your band name?

Well, I’m Winchester 7 and the story goes that Phil and Jack were pulling a runner; but, when I caught up with them, we decided to form a band instead of returning to our dome.

•You guys have a vast array of versatility, what are some of your guys personal musical influences?

Thank you! I’d say we’re heavily Beatles influenced, Paul McCartney, particularly. But, we most certainly draw upon other classic rock, post-punk, Brit pop, and alternative rock.

•What’s one of the best and worst shows you’ve played since your formation?

Well, due to apparent reasons we have moreseo focused on recording and music video production, to date. As such, most of our gigs are rather intimate affairs and have only suffered a few embarrassingly stray notes.

•What genre(s) would you consider your band? Shed a little light on that.

We call it “Indie ukulele rock”. It’s certainly rock, but we like to remind you of the ukulele as you’re unlikely to otherwise notice it by listening alone.

•How many releases have you guys put out this far? And what do you have set for the future?

Argos Holiday is our third EP release. After a short holiday break, we expect to head straight back into the studio to begin work on our follow-up.

•What would you consider your best release so far?

Well, it’s hard to pick favorites, but I’m rather proud of Dirty Laundry off our latest EP, Argos Holiday.

•What message do you have for your fans? What should inspire them to listen to your tunes?

Stay safe, enjoy a happy holidays; and let’s all hope for a still happier, healthier new year.

Regarding our tunes, if our usual seven tracks of Argos Holiday aren’t enough, I hope that its bonus tracks including a cover of David Bowie’s Modern Love and the Stuart Epps (George Harrison, Elton John, Led Zeppelin, Oasis) mix of our Alfred Hitchcock inspired song, The Saint Simon Killer, will.

•What can we expect from you guys in 2021?

Hopefully, our next EP and continued releases of original, companion music videos for each track including previews of the later release.

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Exclusive Artist Interview: Mia Moisa

Posted in Alternative, Americana, Blues, Careers, Dance, EDM, Electronic, EP, Experimental, Funk, Fusion, Gospel, Hip Hop, Indie, Instrumental, Jazz, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, R&B, Reggae, Single, Soul by

Hailing from the beautiful landscapes of Brussels, young up-and-coming starlet Mia Moisa began hitting the ground running just two years ago when she was at 20. It was December 2019 when she realized that music was (and is) the true passion of her life. In Brussels, she also started practicing Yoga and Meditation which are incredibly amazing practices which she learned from Buddhism. Her strive of constantly researching is one of the same philosophies she utilizes for her music as well. There’s no time to stop learning. We’ve had the opportunity to talk with Mia about her aspiring career and where her future plans lead, both as a person and artist.

•What got you into music this past year? What are some of the main components that inspired it?

Since very little I knew I wanted to be on stage. I am quite a sensible person and my way of feeling empowered is by performing. I was sent to Brussels in September 2016, by my family, to study Business without really wanting to do it, but I wanted to feel accepted and please the ones I love. I forced myself during 3 years to study but my inner self didn’t want me to do it. Sometimes I would go to bars during the week ends to feel the music , to do some karaoke and to join some Jam Sessions. A bar I absolutely love here in Brussels is ‘La Tricoterie’ they have such a warm environment and the city in general would make me feel so good. So I would constantly fall depressed after a period of time if I wouldn’t give rhythm and colours to myself. In 2019, I’ve met love for the 1st time, and this person believed so much in me and he encouraged me to follow my dreams. So in January 2020, I dropped out of university and since then have dedicated all my time to art in general. It’s been a healing process since then.

•You’ve recorded a lot of material in such a short time. That’s amazing! How has the studio process been for you?

I remember the first song I registered was with my great friend Tidji, we met in 2017, here in Brussels. He came from Réunion to study Farmacy back then. In the end of 2019 we started making music together and we registered our first feat in January 2020. Sincerely, we was so stressed but at the same time I was feeling so happy. In my mind I remember saying constantly ‘ this is it Mia, you are doing it, finally we are doing it’. I was containing myself to do not jump and go crazy actually . I knew I needed more knowledge to sing on a studio. Its not that simple. With time while recording my singles I just felt I was doing better and better. 6 studio session is what I needed to feel like the studio was a home for me. I am buildind my little home studio now by the way

•Are you a solo artist or do you have a band lined up?

For now I am solo but I would absolutely love to create a band one day. I love old fashion concerts, that’s what I want to give to people, a stage full of energy, a union of individuals that share the same passion.

•What about some of your artist influences? Shed a little light on that.

As a child I loved so much Lady Gaga and Madonna (those 2 were an influence of my best friend João, from Portugal. I used to go over his place and we would pretend those were our songs and we would spend hours and hours making choreographies and singing. Maybe since we were 6 till nowadays we have a lot of fun doing it together. One song that I was crazy about was “Give It To Me” Madonna 2008). Miley Cyrus, I love her so much! I had Eminem, Maroon 5 and Amy Winehouse period. Christina Aguilera, Britney Spears, Shakira, Rihanna and Jennifer were my queens of women empowerment. Then I got crazy with Billie Eilish, this girl is amazing! I could not forget the Queen and Stromae.

•How many years have you been singing? Doesn’t necessarily have to be professional.

I started at the age of 6 in a Folkloric association back in Portugal and made some concerts with them for a few years.

•What are some of your long/short term goals as an artist? What do you hope to accomplish?

Surely to transform the European Stages. I think investors should focus more on our artists. We have one life in this earth and I want to remember that here in Europe we had a hell of a good time spent on concerts because for sure we have a lot of hidden talent. I might be wrong but since little I was expecting to see changes on European stages. That didn’t happen, unfortunately. We need better teams, we need not only managers, we need leaders also, both lovers of art not only money.

For long term I have two major goals. The first one, I will always seek to bring an equilibrium to the way the woman is taken in consideration. In the first place we are human beings, as human beings we are all the same. Period. This also stands for Racism or other types or disrespect. The Second one, that personally I think will take even more time is give all my support to LGBTQIA+ community. I would like to add a *, that goes for all those who feel different or misunderstood, or depressed or anything else that is making them feel bad about themselves. I have something to say to those ones “ You are a Star ” no one can take that away from you, no one should even have that intention, let’s start there. I believe in a better world, I believe in piece and love. There is a lot to work on.

•If you could compare yourself to a couple other vocalists (style-wise), who would they be and why?

I think my voice is a compilation of all those who figure in the 4th question mostly. I feel a strong empathy toward those artist and some many more, that somehow made me see the world differently in a given moment of the past. They made me who I am today.

How has the fan/community reception been towards your music since you started your career so recently?

I received some messages that warmed up my heart so much. It’s such a great feeling to wake up with a message from a stranger saying “wow I love your voice” “ I love what you do” “ I love your universe” etc.

It was a surprise for my friends from Portugal mostly, they didn’t knew what was going on, but they were happy, so was I.

It’s a small community, but a great one for sure! They mean a lot for me!

I am so grateful for everything. I know I don’t have a specific music genre and since I have quite a different style people might be skeptical, I just need time.

•Have you had the chance to perform live yet? (In spite of COVID)

Not with my own songs, I am so anxious about that actually. When things get back to normal, I will finally be able to show me! Can’t wait!

•What are your future plans? Where do you hope to see yourself in 1-2 years?

All depends on COVID. Actually I only could answer to this question if I would imagine that from March things would go back to normal and I could work like crazy to get in some few national stages. Maybe internationals, who knows! Till then I’ll be launching songs.

Mia’s Words & Message

My music talks mostly about philosophy of life: deep emotions, putted on a peaceful flow. I think it translates the bipolarity of our existence. Is everywhere, always, this pressure of showing everything is good even though we might really be suffering inside us. I think it was what I mostly leaded with in my life and there are many conclusions I made out of it. I am launching “Broken Heart ” as the first song of my EP for the simple fact that Covid-19 made us get distant , even more than we were before, it took away from us many things, between them were the kindness for the next one, which it really made me sad, because that’s a strong value I grew up in with my Orthodox Me as a Artist I am looking to encourage people to follow their dreams, to give empowerment, specially woman Empowerment. I love doing extravagant things to bring the weird to common, untill people are abble to accept it as a normality.Changing the normes of society, in my point of view, is necessary.We are a community on a daily evolution, we have to train ourselves to changement. This way more people will be able to free themselves. I believe this life is too preacious to be waisted on a routine. I believe that art is an escaping gate from depression, which is a big psycological issue nowadays. It helps me personaly to express my pain. I have a big background on teather, dance and posing, which are my other ways of freeing myself. In a visual way, is like, by practicing them I can go to a spiritual state where I feel myself levitating. As if we all had wings but routine would put heavy layers of great weight on top of them and the only way to free is letting your self express be free.

I am launching “Broken Heart ” as the first song of my EP for the simple fact that Covid-19 made us get distant , even more than we were before, it took away from us many things, between them were the kindness for the next one, which it really made me sad, because that’s a strong value I grew up in with my Orthodox Me as a Artist I am looking to encourage people to follow their dreams, to give empowerment, specially woman Empowerment. I love doing extravagant things to bring the weird to common, untill people are abble to accept it as a normality. Changing the normes of society, in my point of view, is necessary.We are a comunity on a daily evolution, we have to train ourselves to changement. This way more people will be able to free themselves. I believe this life is too precious to be waisted on a routine. I believe that art is an escaping gate from depression, which is a big psycological issue nowadays. It helps me personaly to express my pain. I have a big background on teather, dance and posing, which are my other ways of freeing myself. In a visual way, is like, by practicing them I can go to a spiritual state where I feel myself levitating. As if we all had wings but routine would put heavy layers of great weight on top of them and the only way to free is letting your self express be free.

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