Tag Archives: Rock

Exclusive Artist Review: The Harmalators – “Time Portal To A Better Future” Album

Posted in Album, Alternative, Emo, Indie, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, Rock by

San Francisco-based Identical-twin-duo The Harmalators have graced our platform before and are well known for their charismatically colorful and catchy signature sound; implementing catchy riffs and sing-songy choruses into a tightly knit package of Indie-Pop Rock goodness with a familiar yet innovative approach. Starting off as a power trio in 2005, this duo has written and released a vast array of prominent records and have been a constant routine request among listeners on radio stations nation, recently taking the #1 slot on Chicago’s BMS Radio.

Now in 2022, The Harmalators duo have put out some of their most notable tracks to date with the release of their newest album Time Portal To A Better Future, a 10-track collection of well thought out versatile songs that showcase several paralleled angles of the brothers’ performance and production value, serving up a tasty concoction of glistening guitars, anthemic vocals and dangerously catchy choruses that are bound to stick with you. “Dream Dream Of Waterfalls” is an excellent example of this formula, starting off with the chorus immediately to set the tone for the rest of the record’s aura and atmosphere. This track will easily charm fans of the older Rock sensibility that they grew up with, putting catchy and easy-to-follow vocals into a structure that showcases crispy guitar swells to give the brothers a complimentary sound you can easily identify with. It’s a nostalgic song with magical vocal melodies, and provides a lovable chorus that will undoubtedly stick with you long after it’s over.

Another notable track on this record is the acoustically-driven piano track “Clean Cool World”, a track with several layers of synth-y and electronic touches. This inspirational song has very atmospheric verses and leads into a simple yet effective chorus that once again never fails when it comes to catchiness. This song in particular is a more experimental effort on the record, shining a light on more musical angles that both brothers explore throughout the song’s duration. One more noteworthy track on this album is “On The Way to Heaven”, a more subtle piece with inspirational lyrics, a serene chorus with very effective backup vocals and an aura of peacefulness that will have you playing this one in your most relaxed state. It’s a feel-good song with a glistening atmosphere from beginning to end, with an almost Pink Floyd type of ambience. This song definitely lives up to its title and is definitely a standout of this album in both performance and execution.

Overall, Time Portal To A Better Future is an exciting release for The Harmalators duo and is definitely a step up from their previous releases. It’ll easily entice new listeners, satisfy current ones and will have you putting this record on repeat anytime you need a musical uplifter in your day. The album is available now on Spotify, Apple Music and several other digital music streaming platforms. You will not be disappointed in the least.

•Apple Music Album Link: https://music.apple.com/us/album/the-harmalators-time-portal-to-a-better-future/1642526913

•Twitter: https://www.Twitter.com/harmalators

•Instagram: https://www.Instagram.com/normankay9

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Exclusive Artist Review: Radio Drive – “One Breath Away” EP

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

Emerging from the Minneapolis/St. Paul music scene, Alt-Indie recording artist and multi musician Kevin Gullickson (known under his solo monicker Radio Drive) has been writing, recording and releasing his own dynamic breed of eclectic Rock/Pop-oriented material since launching his solo career in 2008. Since then, he has undoubtedly hit the ground running and has amassed an impressive name for himself since emerging into the market; putting out an array of albums and releases at a frequent pace and constantly innovating his signature sound and stylization. He has received numerous glowing reviews and critical acclaim since his inception; receiving an array of airplay on several local and regional radio stations both in the US and Canada for his 2009 album Dream The Impossible, his sophomore 2010 follow up record Life Today as well as his subsequent release I Can See The World From Here. His release Life Today also hit the Top 40 charts on CJSW Radio in Calgary.

Fast forward to 2022 and Radio Drive has brought his inventive and cohesive sound full circle with his newest dynamic 4-track EP One Breath Away, comprised of some of Kevin Gullickson’s best work and most notable tracks to date. Each song is carefully crafted with fine detail, several coherent layers and a signature sound that touches on equal parts originality and familiarity; delivering a solid performance that brilliantly incorporates Rock and Pop elements from older more classic flavors and today’s more modern sensibility. It’s not only a record for fans of the classics, but also for today’s hungry music fans searching for the next fresh take on the genres they have come to love. Fresh from the EP, the song “Be Yourself Tonight” diligently encapsulates the aura and atmosphere that this particular record gives off. It’s a minor scaled piano-driven tune with layers of complimenting clean guitars and a cohesive rhythm section to tie it all together. Kevin’s mid-to-high range vocals are very magnetic and anthemic, encompassing a style that cross breeds Rock vocalists like Sting and Coldplay’s Chris Martin. His melody choices are not just coherent, but brilliantly arranged and executed. His upper third harmonies in the second verse and octaves in the chorus are immediate standouts in this song and really demonstrate Kevin’s ability both as a singer and songwriter. This track will easily impress anyone upon first listen.

Another notable track on this EP is the more upbeat “I Believe I Believe”, a song with several impressive instrumental layers and a dangerously catchy title hook. Definitely the sing-along track of the record, this nostalgic track has surprises around every corner ranging from heavier crunchy guitars, a female chorus of background vocals, violins/strings and an anchor hook that will likely stick in your head like glue. This track definitely has staying power, and will stick with you even long after it’s over. “Don’t You Know” is another track with beautiful string layers and really showcases more of Kevin’s vocal range and arrangements. This Rock number has a nostalgic 90s feel that sounds like a song directly imported from that era. This ridiculously catchy song has shades of REM throughout the track’s duration and the glistening harmonies in the chorus’s “don’t you know, don’t…you know” will be stuck in your head for weeks. Lastly, the acoustic-oriented “Moment By Moment” is the final track and is an anthem all about life and living in that important moment, day by day, hour by hour. This feel-good track is a straightforward song with some tasty three part harmonies and really has that oldies vibe going on, but still has that same innovative signature that Radio Drive is known for. This track fits on this record like a glove and really ties Kevin’s sound together into a tightly wrapped package, with the bow and all.

Altogether, One Breath Away is a record for those seeking that dose of nostalgia, but still being able to indulge in that modern twist that we frequently hear with today’s more contemporary artists. Every track could easily be a radio hit, and the production value diligently parallels the performance value from beginning to end. Kevin Gullickson serves up a tasty platter of Alt-Indie songs on this EP with several key elements in each one offering a more cohesive finish product in whole. It’s a record that will easily capture new fans, satisfy old ones, and entice any listener to dive into Radio Drive’s impressive discography – as well as stay up to date on future releases as well. This is an absolute must-hear in every way.

One Breath Away is available now on Apple Music, Spotify, iTunes and several other digital music streaming platforms. You’ll be more than glad you gave it a listen.

•Website: http://www.radiodrive.net
•Facebook: https://fb.me/RadioDriveMusic
•Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/radiodrivemusic
•Youtube: http://www.youtube.com/RadioDriveMusic
•Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/radio_drive
•Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5JZELlsigjpKLVji8J1n3e?si=0z00cEbgReCUflTkYoGsUQ
•iTunes: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/radio-drive/313677115

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Exclusive Artist Interview: Masonx

Posted in Alternative, Careers, EDM, Electronic, Indie, Instrumental, Music Review, Press Release, Rock by

Hailing from the northern west coast scene of Eugene, Oregon, rising multi-musician, artist and producer Masonx (derived from his birth name, Mason) has been on an insatiable industry incline since hitting the ground running in the market around 2020, so far proving that his multifaceted signature sound is not only a fresh one, but innovative as well – combining elements of several genres and styles to create something that is not only effective, but authentic and original. His experience as a musician and producer is very apparent and he really showcases multiple angles of his skill, spirit and writing style in every release – which is why we feel he deserves to be highlighted in this exclusive interview feature.

Specializing primarily in instrumental tracks, Masonx conjures up an Alt-Rock/Dreamwave oriented musical concoction and flavor with his utilization of guitar, bass, synth and drums for material that is all self produced, self performed and self written, respectively. He currently has two albums out and has a slew of material in the works that will be slated for release sometime in the near future. With his very active and determined mindset in the forefront, we decided to sit down with Masonx for an exclusive interview regarding the past, present and future.

•How long have you been active under your artist name?

Officially online as Masonx for almost three years now!

•What music scene/city do you currently represent?

I am currently living in Eugene Oregon and it is full of creative people, luckily i have a few collaborations in the works and finally getting out there as a producer.

•The pandemic has really thrown a wrench into the live music experience and for artists altogether. How has it affected you and your career (if at all)?

The pandemic has been really chaotic youre absolutely right, tragic things have happened and that usually causes artists to create as a coping mechanism. I guess the same goes for me.

•What are some of your music influences?

The main ones I can think of are Enigma, Thievery Corporation, Flying Lotus and so many more.

•What kind of concepts do you tend to write about as an artist? Shine some light on that.

My first album ‘ Paradise Matrix ‘ is a concept album about the future of mankind, where technology is headed and a possible alien presence on this planet. The second album is more organic and less intense, ‘Sacred Gardens ‘ is the concept of finding solace during hard times, its more down to earth and calm.

•If you could put together a dream show or tour, what bands/artists would be on the bill?

Good question! Probably a tour with Thievery Corporation and play some downtempo type tracks I’ve been working on! Someday I hope!

•When is your next release coming out?

August 7th! This album is going to be awesome should be out on all major online outlets. Very excited to share what I’ve been working on.

•What’s in store for you for the rest of 2022 and going into 2023? Give us the goods.

I have so many plans for this year and have so much music in store! An ambient album, a vaporwave album and a drum and bass type album. Also several collaborations with other talented musicians. Good things in store!

Connect with Masonx:

•Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6EMJ1G8UO32O6d60Ze0ZqB?si=wyH2sQMwTuycjJJHCBrh9g

•Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infinite_future/

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Exclusive Artist Review: Nick Duane – “Broken Promises” Album

Posted in Album, Alternative, Careers, Electronic, Indie, Music Review, Press Release, Rock by

Emerging from the Providence, RI and prominent surrounding New England scene, rising Indie artist Nick Duane has been building an insatiable buzz throughout the landscape since his inception into the music realm with his debut album Confessions in 2011 and hasn’t slowed down in the slightest. Encapsulating a signature sound that diligently blends an ambient 80s/90s Indie Rock sensibility with today’s more modern approach, Nick Duane’s uniquely captivating songwriting and lyrical concepts have truly manifested into something that is both original and versatile in its execution; drawing in fans from many different musical backgrounds and tastes.

With a slew of releases under his belt since his debut record, the recently released fourth album Broken Promises is a true pinnacle of Nick Duane’s craft and really showcases his dynamic ability to put together a collection of songs that captivate your attention with his classic yet futuristic Indie Rock sensibility. Completely self produced and written, this 12-track record sets a tone that is both anthemic and atmospheric. Each track compliments the next and Nick proves that he truly knows how to write/tell a cohesive story both lyrically and instrumentally. Comprised of rhythmic grooves, crunchy guitar progressions, ambient key textures and anthemic vocal melodies, Nick delivers a solid execution on this record equally between the factors of performance and production value. His mid-range Bowie-style vocals fit his Indie style diligently and his thought provoking lyrics offer up a futuristic flow that is both interesting and original.

One of the notable tracks on this record is opening track “Anything”, a rhythmic song with a smooth bass line, crisp guitars and a catchy vocal progression that really sets the tone for the rest of the album. This song especially delivers very cleverly crafted keyboard riffs and smooth guitar leads, so Nick’s musicianship factors are very apparent as this track plays out. Another standout on this album is “The Old World”, an atmospheric tune with beautiful synth swells and guitar textures. This song especially shines a light on Nick’s versatile songwriting approach and really adds several new layers of depth. This song has hints of The Cure and Pink Floyd in it, which compliments Nick’s overall approach on this record and really explores a fresh angle of his musicianship factors.

One other notable track on this record is the album single “Birthday Greetings”, an acoustically driven anthem with several atmospheric layers and textures that brings Nick Duane’s signature sound to the forefront. This soothing track has very rhythmic progressions and leads that compliment each other throughout the song, and with Nick Duane’s story-telling vocals at the helm partnered with effective vocal melodies, this song truly hits it out of the park and brings every element of this record into one tasty flavor. Fans of the Dark Side of the Moon album will especially love this track, but even with nods to some of the original Rock greats throughout the record, Nick’s style is completely versatile, original and insatiably catchy. Any fan of the Indie Rock genre, no matter the era, will appreciate this record in full. It brilliantly brings together the essence of old school flavors and today’s more futuristic and modern musical realms, all stirred into one solidly anthemic tasty stew that is Broken Promises.

The album is currently available on Nick Duane’s official website along with Spotify and BandCamp. You’ll be more than glad you gave it a listen. You will also be enticed to do a deep dive into Nick’s discography and history.

Connect:

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved

Artist Review: Kevin Borland – “Talking To Dead People” Album

Posted in Album, Alternative, Blues, Careers, EDM, Electronic, Indie, Music Review, Pop, Press Release, Rock by

Orlando, Florida’s Kevin Borland started making his impact in the music world with his 2016 debut album ‘Harbor City Meltdown’, a record that handsomely boasts his artistically progressive pop/alternative rock signature sound with a stylization that is original and dynamic. Tackling the realm of music with many successful releases under his belt over many years, Borland has a true knack and passion for being a composer/solo artist with several crucial influences from industry heavyweights like David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, as well as guitar pioneer Steve Vai.

Consistently putting out an array of notable releases since his debut in 2016, Borland has manifested into a thriving and rising solo artist, upping the ante with every record in terms of catchiness, coherence, creativity and originality. And this is heavily apparent with his newest album ‘Talking To Dead People’, a 15-track juggernaut that brings Borland’s colorful musical landscapes into to the forefront with cohesively catchy guitar riffs, progressive keyboard measures and melody-driven vocals fused together with well thought out lyrical themes. The track “Spoon Without a Fork” is a good example of this. With an unwavering groove from start to finish at the helm of this song, this track’s bass lines really tighten up the rhythm section in a way that drives the song in a dynamic direction alongside the story-telling narrative of Borland’s vocals. Topping the flavors off with prog/rock-style single-picking guitar riffs, this song is a standout of the album with its innovative verses and dangerously catchy chorus alongside all of the layers this song peels back as it plays out. If this is your first time hearing Kevin Borland, then this song will leave you with an insatiably unforgettable impression.

Another notable track on this record is the synth-driven “Autographed Picture of a Robot Dog”, a more jam band kind of approach with a gritty, bluesy rotund low end carrying an ominous melody that reminds you of the London nightlife. This song is anthemic, atmospheric and continues to demonstrate Borland’s inventive lyrical narratives – giving this song a distinctive edge that is sharp, witty and altogether innovative. Every part of this song is put together very diligently, especially the background vocal layers in the chorus that really give the entirety of this song’s melody an enhancement of compliments and style. It’s a brilliant listen from beginning to end and really solidifies the album’s overall tone.

One other song that really stands out on this record is closing track “No Love in the USA”, a more upbeat track with cruising tempos, diligently paralleled keys and guitars, and a big chorus that encompasses an anthemic arena of catchiness. This crafty closeout song not only wraps the record up with a shiny bow on top, but also entices you to start the record over again and do a deeper dive into Kevin Borland’s discography altogether. One thing this album has especially is multi genre approaches without crossing into absurd genre-mixing territories. It’s not some experimental craziness, it’s a diligently-composed and brilliantly themed collection of songs with crafty thought provoking lyrics that implement artistic outbursts of spoken word measures that really lend to the theming aspects of each song – coherently showcasing a signature sound that’s not only effective, but innovative in its execution as well. The attention to detail is amazing not only in terms of writing, but the performance factor as well. The production value is on point and doesn’t outdo itself in any way throughout the record’s duration. All in all, ‘Talking to Dead People’ is hands down Kevin Borland’s best release effort yet and will definitely hold a high regard upon those giving him a first listen. Those who are just discovering him will especially be impressed and will likely find enticement to go down the rabbit hole of Borland’s past releases, as well as pay close attention to the prospect of future ones as well. This album will not (and does not) disappoint in the slightest. ‘Talking to Dead People’ officially drops in June of this year and will be available across all digital music streaming platforms.

Connect:

•Official Website: https://www.kevinborlandmusic.com/

•Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KevinBorlandMusic

•YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwqBEbImP6SgSCYUhdMXpfQ

©️ Artist Reach, LLC | ASCAP | All Rights Reserved