Aris • Twilight Revival

Just over a month ago, I got an email suggesting I check out the music of Aris from Jeff Dorta of Project Publicity. He also sent along a couple of MP3s, and before you could blink your eyes, I had another artists I wanted to check and and hear more from. And not just because it was impossible to ignore the fact Aris is a strikingly handsome man. I listened to those files sent to me, and they clicked with me. I loved those five songs so much, I went out and purchased the album 'Twilight Revival', where they were found.

When listening to Aris, I can't help but think he is the lovechild of Patti Smith and Chris Cornell, with a supercharged growl of a voice. But then again, I can hear the edge and grit of Pink in his performance, as well as the strength of Kelly Clarkson. The Brooklyn native writes songs that are energetic and evocative, using a base of Rock and Electronica as a base before launching off to make music that is smart and effortlessly cool. 'Twilight Revival', released last fall, is a 17-track collection, with 14 new tracks, and two additional acoustic versions, and one remix of the songs. The album kicks off with "Twilight", a song that has great energy, and would have me running to the dance floor back in the day, dancing with a clenched fist thrust in the air. This is Aris with the official music video for "Twilight".

If that didn't get your juices flowing, urgency of "Blessed Be" might just be what you need. The drive is is bold, and the lyrics thoughtful. "Let Me In" cranks the energy back up to 12 with a forceful pleading that had me ready to give it up and let Aris in. Just when I feared I had to listen to another cover of the Leonard Cohen song, Aris brings out his own original song "Hallelujah", a bluesy spiritual that grabbed me hard. This is the psychedelic official music video for "Hallelujah".

There is a beautiful opening for "Higher", just before the Pop/Rock heart comes beating through. there is nothing like love to make us believe our lives can be lifted to a higher place. Next up, we have "Pray for Change", which features Kalyn Hemphill, Nina Zeitlin and Jimmy Jenkins in support of the man behind the music, Aris. We find the spiritual center and the heart of a man looking answers in a crazy world. This is the music video for "Pray For Change".

I first heard a snippet of "Astral Symphony" on the official website, so I was interested in hearing the full version. I just have to say, I was not disappointed. Far from it, in fact. There is a depth to the song, and it allows Aris a chance to deliver a deliciously nuanced performance. As he continues his search for answers, Aris shares "Savior" with us. what begins as an acoustic introspective prayer builds to an insistent call for hope. You don't have to be "Deaf, Dumb and Blind" to hear the retro feel to the song, like it was written in the Brill Building. I am surprised by how well it suits his voice, and the innocence it offers. With a throbbing beat and his voice driven by loss, it is not innocence that is found in "Anchor". There is a welcome joy at the top of "Light to Dark". It is palpable in the track, as well as in the music video for "Light to Dark".

There is such warmth found in the love song "Fallen Blind", a ballad with some bombastic qualities that would make Jim Steinman proud, and enough catharsis to move me. "Deliver Me" begins with a simple sound of guitar chords, and a soft feel of Aris' voice. There is something hypnotic about this one. The last new cut, "Revival", starts out with a call and response, bridging Gospel and Pop, before allowing the Pop side to flourish a bit more. We are left with a feeling of new life, new growth, just what we wanted. Both "Blessed Be" and "Light to Dark" are given acoustic versions, while "Twilight" has the Dancehaus Remix to complete 'Twilight Revival'. There is such a grit in his voice, it is hard to listen and not growl back just a little. Aris shows us Rock, Pop, Gospel, Blues, and even a Folky side on the album, leading me to wonder if there is anything he can't do. He writes songs with stories that involved feelings straight from the heart, sometimes with a soft caress, and other times with a pumping fist. I just can't get enough. 'Twilight Revival' is available for purchase on iTunes and Amazon. To discover more about Aris, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Sunday Morning with the Denver Gay Men's Chorus

I don't know why I am constantly surprised that some of these men's chorus' kick some serious ass, yet when I find them, it makes me oh, so happy. The Denver Gay Men's Chorus is run in conjuncture with the Rocky Mountain Arts Association, and certainly falls in to the happy territory. Check out there first offering, Dona Nobis Pacem. The translated title is Grant Us Peace, the traditional Latin text was given new music by Mark Arnett. This performance is at the Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church.



While I think there are certainly moments when I am over hearing yet another version of Leonard Cohen's magnificent Hallelujah, I must say I welcome this version, with the interesting use pf percussion in it, as well as the tight harmonies. Give it a listen!



And while a slew of people have recorded The Prayer, I feel quite spoiled to have heard Anthony Callea recording's of it. So I was a bit worried when I hit the play button, but was pleasantly surprised by a rather nice arrangement and performance of the song.



You can learn more about Denver Gay Men's Chorus on their official website here. Like all choruses around the world, I am sure the Denver Gay Men's Chorus would welcome any contribution one could offer. You can do that online here. You can also visit the store here, where you can buy the work of the Denver Gay Men's Chorus, the Denver Women's Chorus, and the Colorado Springs Men's Chorus.

RightOut TV Awards - Best Comic Video

RightOutTV announced their first winners in the inaugural awards to celebrate the depth and diversity of the music in the LGBT community. The results reflect an impressive array of talent in 13 different categories. Winning artists represent the United States, Israel, Australia, England and Austria, making this a truly global contest. Next I will feature the winner of the Best Comic Video category.




The award was given to Harry "CS" Wingfield for his video, Hallelujah. The video is an original song dedicated to Leonard Cohen, with regards to his brilliant writing career, which included far more than just the single song most people know...



Harry "CS" Wingfield is an out and proud performer, making brilliant music since the mid-80s. He recorded an acceptance video that I found absolutely charming.



I am sad to report I can't find a link to get you to an official website, or to purchase or listen to Harry's music. The only bit of information I found was on JD Doyle's wonderful resource, Queer Music History (here) or (here). I was able to hear Harry's beautiful voice on the second link. You can watch the music of RightOut TV online here.

In Memory of...

Just a few weeks ago, I was told about the imminent passing of an old client, and friend, and it had a surprising effect on me. While I hadn't seen Rick in like 6 years or so, there was a time when I did consider him a friend, and would talk from time to time, and have a laugh. God, he could laugh. But he was also smart, thoughtful, and had an amazing heart, one that went unnoticed because of a quick and sharp wit. But his was not the first loss I had heard about. There was also George, a kind and quiet man who always showed surprising strength and compassion. And there were thoughts of Jackie, my cousin's husband. They would have celebrated an anniversary recently.

So, with a nod to Rick, George and Jackie, I thought I would take a moment to them, as well as to so many others who have passed through my life, and your life. Here is the incredible kd lang giving, in my opinion, one of the definitive versions of Leonard Cohen's iconic Hallelujah.



I hope this gave you the opportunity to pause and reflect on those you have lost. But I also hope this reminds us all to reach out to those we hold close. Let them know you care, that they made an impact on your life.

Cover Boy • Jeff Buckley

Singer/songwriter Jeff Buckley is perhaps best known for his versions of two songs he did not write. In 1994, Buckley released his first full-length album, Grace. The album received outstanding reviews across the board, but the sales numbers were less than people would think. But in listening now, I am not surprised, for Buckley's music was far from what was playing on the radio at the time. The 10 song collection had 7 original songs by Buckley, and 3 covers. Stylistically, Buckley had his own sound and feel to his music. He could nimbly combine elements of folk, rock, and jazz to create a sound that seemed to not only speak to his soul, but from it as well. One of those covers was a of a little known song by Canadian singer/songwriter Leonard Cohen, which had some attention in 1991 when recorded by John Cale for a tribute album. But honestly, it was Buckley recording from 1994 that gave Hallelujah a respected place in the history of music, but at the time was not released as a single. However, after his death, the album maintained a bit of cult status, and several years later, the song grew, and was soon the biggest selling song of his short career. Here is a live version of Hallelujah.



While it was not part of Buckley's first album, the theme song to a 1987 movie was part of his live repertoire. Calling You was written by Bob Telson for Bagdad Café. It was recorded by Jevetta Steele for the soundtrack, and it was certainly a haunting song. It was released as part of the live album, Live at Sin-é, in 2003, after he had passed away. But for those who flocked to purchase the album, the familiar pure tone and tortured spirit came through perfectly. This is Calling You.



Buckley had only released one album at the time of his death in 1997, a few months shy of his 31st birthday. He had worked on a few demos for an upcoming album, but was relaxing in Memphis prior to going in to the studio for the second album when he died in an unfortunate swimming accident. Jeff's father, Tim Buckley, had also passed away at an early age. He was 28 when he died following a drug overdose. Jeff was just 8 years old, and didn't really know the man, who had divorced his mother about the time he was born. Whether or not that lead to the inherent vulnerability and pain in his vocals would certainly be open for discussion. Or was the lack of speaking/knowing his own father that gave such depth to his voice as an artist. Or was his gift just God-given, we'll never know. But we most certainly can enjoy it.

Gregory Douglass - Cover Art

I have been enjoying Gregory Douglass' Cover Art project. In fact, I have been enjoying it so much, I have been keeping it for myself lately. But that needs to change, and I need to share it with you all. Gregory describes the project as "where cover songs and visual art play nicely together." I've already posted two of his entries, his cover of Britney's Toxic here and of Adele's Set Fire To The Rain here.



The latest video entry for the project, Gregory tackles Florence + the Machine with their big song, Dog Days Are Over. After several years of following Gregory's talent, I don't know why I am still surprised by anything he does, yet somehow, he manages. His cover of the song is brash and bold, and so very Gregory. I love it. But then again, I love most of what Gregory does. Check this out, it is fantastic.



You can purchase the single on iTunes here, Amazon.com here, and on CD Baby here.



Gregory's rendition of Katy Perry Teenage Dream is not nearly as urgent and screechy as the original, and much smoother and more seductive than the GLEE version. His dreamy cover is accompanied by video and painted art done by Gregory himself.



You can purchase the single on iTunes here, Amazon.com here, and on CD Baby here.



Gregory also offered up a beautiful version of Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah. I will admit it is not the first time I've heard Gregory sing the song, and yet it moves me every time I do. I first heard it a couple of years ago, produced by SYD, who, as of late, is part of the band Hotels & Highways whose music I am quite enjoying. Here three more I am sharing with you.



You can purchase the single on iTunes here, Amazon.com here, and on CD Baby here. You can find his latest album, Lucid, on iTunes here, on Amazon.com here, and on CD Baby here.

Josh Zuckerman - Halelujah

While not a 'It Gets Better' video, I thought I would end the run with out rocker Josh Zuckerman performing the classic song Hallelujah. He performs it live with Thomas Briant. I am a fan of Josh's music, and think he takes this song very seriously, and delivers. It touched me, and seemed like the thing to post now.





For more about Josh Zuckerman, check out his official website here. If you are someone, or know someone who might be feeling the effects of prejudice and bullying, here is the website for The Trevor Project. They have set up a hotline that can be reached at (866)488-7386. Share the number with those how you think might benefit, because the teenage years are hard enough without the additional issues discovering you are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender, and the pain inflicted on those youth by people with small minds.

Sunday Morning with Il Divo

L to R: Sébastien Izambard, Carlos Marín, David Miller and Urs Bühler

Il Divo was formed om 2001 with the idea that classical singers taking on a combination of genres, from classical to pop, would sell, and they did. Il Divo are Spanish baritone, Carlos Marín; tenors Swiss Urs Bühler and American David Miller; and a French pop singer, Sébastien Izambard. Some referred to Il Divo as the first classical boyband. I figured they might be a pleasant way to wake up with Sunday morning.



Amazing Grace is a song written by English clergyman John Newton in 1779, a Christian Hymn that went on to become a staple for churches and singers worldwide. Here is the song sung by Il Divo from a performance in Barcelona. Corrected: from a concert in Croatia.



Written by Canadian Leonard Cohen and released on an album in 1984, Hallelujah has gone on to be recorded by countless artists. When sung well, it is gorgeous; sung badly, and it is sheer torture. This performance is also from Barcelona. Corrected: from a concert in Croatia.



Adagio [in G Minor] is a neo-baroque composition by Remo Giazotto first published in 1958, but in 2000 Lara Fabian wrote lyrics for release on her own album. So, with Giazotto's music and Fabian's lyrics, Il Divo close out this post from Barcelona. Corrected: from a concert in Croatia.



If you enjoyed these songs, you can purchase An Evening With Il Divo, Live in Barcelona from Amazon. If you would like the CD/DVD package, with both the music CD and the video DVD, click here. If you would prefer the MP3 download of the music only, you can purchase it for $10.99 here. For the actual concert, Il Divo: At The Coliseum, click here. Either way, it is excellent, and you should be able to enjoy it in your own home. To find out more information, you can check out their official website here.

Str8 Boys Need Love Too - Gareth Asher

I found him on a recommendation from another musician, which is a great way to find talented artists. After I got the name, I went to find some music, and I was pretty impressed. His voice is quite good, with an expressive, soulful tone I really love. There is both a softness and a grit there. He has two albums so far, 2007's I'm The Earth and 2008's No Reality. He will be releasing a new album soon, Between the Smiles And Tears. Until then, I thought I would talk about some strong songs I really like from the Atlanta, Georgia, native.



Sometimes you just gotta hear the blues. When I do, I want them like this, in his song Bathe Me In Failure, when I hear a man who is down and pulls himself up to a good place. It is part of his I'm The Earth release.



Also from his debut release, My Love is a great song. I really enjoy it on the album, but this live version lifts it to another level. the vibrancy and depth is just good for my soul.



The simplistic beauty of Enchanted is an amazement to me. It is a classic folk song, with a melody that charms me deeply. But there is also a prose in this words, and you can feel the emotions of the artist returning home, the trepidation and the love.



As a touring artist, there are always cover songs you pull out of your pocket, hopefully ones that will not only charm and sate the audience, but will also please your own soul. Gareth plays Leonard Cohen's Hallelujah with a nice depth, never sacrificing the emotion of the song for his pure tone. It definitely works for me.



I scouted around, and couldn't find a release date for the new album, but will definitely keep an eye out for when it down. I have purchased the first two from Amazon, and you can find them here, both on sale for $8.99 a piece. You can catch a preview of his songs on his MySpace page here.

Worth Another Listen - The Roches

In the spirit of the memorial service held for Michael Jackson, I thought perhaps a nice video might be in order. So I thought of the Hallelujah Chorus, as sung by sisters Maggie and Terre and Suzzy, better known as The Roches.



Their use of harmonies is just mind-boggling to me. Their self-titled album was just a breathe of fresh air when it was released in 1979, and I still listen to it. They are smart, witty, and just a bit on the quirky side, but still amazing.



They also put out a Christmas CD that is one of my favorites of the season. I am so happy to pull out We Three Kings every Thanksgiving, just to hear them have such great fun with some classic music.



You can find out more about The Roches on their website.