Derek Bishop • Baggage

Singer/songwriter Derek Bishop has released a music video for his first single off his upcoming release, and it is well-worth watching. "Baggage" was written by Bishop, who co-produced it with Jay Braun. The song is bright and stirring, Pop at a bracing up-tempo speed. It takes an accelerated look at the baggage we all bring from one relationship to another, and what we leave behind as little land minds in others. The music video was directed by William Murray, and features the handsome Bishop in a psychedelic trip with saturated colors and stylized lighting that allows the song to soar, Derek's spinning performance on camera giving the beneath it's wings. This is the music video for "Baggage" by Derek Bishop.

"Baggage" is the first single off Derek's upcoming release, 'Bicycling in Quicksand'. The album will hit the stores on April 7th, but you can pre-order it on iTunes, and get "Baggage" now! The same can be done on Amazon. You can also order a physical CD (delightfully autographed), from his website. To learn more about Derek Bishop, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

Gavin James • Live at Whelans

These days, it seems gingers are all the rage. That might be true, but I can tell you one thing, no matter the trends, I will stay true to this ginger. Gavin James is and out and proud singer/songwriter from Dublin, Ireland, a home to many good-looking redheads. I first discovered his music via his cover of Etta James' "At Last", which I still love. Right away, I searched for more music, but it was tough to find in the United States. Thankfully, that changed recently, with the release of the live collection, 'Live at Whelans'.

Like I said, I was eagerly awaiting the opportunity to support Gavin James, so I purchased 'Live at Whelans'. I couldn't wait to load it in my iTunes and hit play. And that it something I have done time and time again since then. I just can't get enough. The album starts off with cheers and an acoustic guitar, followed by the beautiful voice of Gavin James, which floats through the air with a lightness and flutter, only to reveal a strength and passion. He sings "For You", a stunning song about unrequited love we all know far too well. That is followed by "Nervous", a song that still charms my heart. This is Gavin singing "Nervous".

There is something so real about "I Don't Know Why", and the love so palpable, I find it almost intoxicating. That time when you are approaching someone you care about, but feel th eneed to tell them how you feel. The next song is much more grounded, as you would expect from a song titled "Coming Home". You feel the emotions of missing someone you love, so real and hard. When the crowd joins him on the chorus, there is real power in those shared emotions. When I first saw the song name of the next entry, I was thinking it was a cover of the great song by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler, "When The Sun Comes Out", but I quickly learned I was mistaken, it is another original by James, and it is a beauty. This is "Till The Sun Comes Up".

I love it when, in "Hole in My Heart", he takes a look at your relationship with an ex. We've all been there, and he captures it so well. With "22", James takes a wistful look at love, and of life when we were younger and life was simpler. The next song opens with a whistle, and the mood lightens a bit. "Great Escape" has a wonderful effervescence, and I can't help but smile as it plays. With "Ghost", James returns to a more ethereal feel, as two people look to find the spark again. The next track in the show is the second song I heard by James, and so it remains a favorite. "Say Hello" is also the title track on an EP released in 2012. While not the on this album, I found this video of Gavin singing the song live. I hope you, like me, find the joy of "Say Hello" essential.

I must admit, in the live version, with the audience singing almost the whole song with him, there is added joy to the song. You really should hear that version. It was the original closer for the show, but the audience demanded more, and James gave it to them. There is the delicate beauty of "Two Hearts", which builds with such power and strength, with a touch of heartbreak. I love that mix. Gavin makes an unusual choice when he ends the album with a cover. "The Book of Love" was written by out singer/songwriter Stephin Merritt, and originally sung by Merritt's band, The Magnetic Fields. This is Gavin James with "The Book of Love".

I must say, I love this album, It is easy to see why Gavin was signed by Capital Records here in the States, who I hope will make his music readily available here. They've done a great job with another guy form the UK, Sam Smith. While different artists, I can't help but be excited about the future of both artists. To learn more about Gavin James, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook. You can purchase 'Live at Whelans' from iTunes and Amazon.

SIRPAUL • Seventh Star

I first discovered the music of SIRPAUL, being immediately enchanted by what I heard. Listening to 'Dismantle', I put it it on 'Repeat', settle in and allow the music to wash over me, cleansing my soul better than a river ceremony in the Confederate South. Several of the songs remain favorites of mine, including "Addicted". The music echoed some of the great 'dark' songs of Depeche Mode, yet always sounded fresh and new. Soon I was buying his next release, the industrial 'Objectified', the 'Do You Remixes', 'Music & Me', and, well, you get the point. I have them all, the albums, the EPs, and the remixes, eagerly digesting each stop along the SIRPAUL musical journey that takes me places I couldn't predict, but love to revisit time and time again. I was incredibly excited when I heard SIRPAUL was back in the studio, working on a new album. I was even more excited when I got to download it, and give 'Seventh Star' a listen.

Now, I will admit I was already familiar with the first cut, for I purchased "Every Single Moment" as soon as it was available as s single in September. From the first strains of the song, you hear the way it is just vibrating with life, and erupting with love. Thankfully, SIRPAUL has made the track available for streaming, so you can get a treat a week after Halloween. This is "Every Single Moment".

From the outset, I thought "Typical Blue" gave me a little Blondie feel, but as is often the case, SIRPAUL had me forgetting about Debbie Harry, and focusing on the amazing artist he is. It is a wonderful Pop song with an edge, and you soon recall there is nothing typical about his music. There is a lush feel to "Be Mine", with a great melody wraps me up all warm and cozy, giving me the opportunity to feel it and believe it. While we might find a nod to the great Cyndi Lauper in "He's So Unusual", blooms into a great song, and delightful confection of SIRPAUL's making. "Feelin' Free" has a buoyancy that is light and fresh, like an effervescent dream. The song is just makes me float with it, light and airy. The percussive start to "Turn Me On" is driven and sensual, the warm sensation of blood and hormones rushing to my skin, making me flush. From the start of "Black Leather", there is a edginess, a rawness that cannot be denied. Give a listen and judge for yourself.

There is something slightly dark with the opening of "Your Bedroom", the next track that also features a rap break by Baron. The song captures new love, when love, hope, lust and desire cloud the mind, when we believe we are acting with clarity. The edge continues with "Love Sick", club tune that radiates heat and explodes with danger. With the first listen, I could feel my dark side being drawn out to play. "Give Me More" looks for something beyond that momentary distraction, but not that far away. When the mind kicks into overdrive, sometimes you are looking for than a quick roll in the hay - like an amazing weekend locked in an apartment. There is a jubilant feeling to "Side by Side", a defiant anthem extolling the joys of sharing your love with the world. It is interesting, for "X-Rated" starts a bit coy, flirting with the listener, before heating things up. Things get a bit steamy, tasting and sharing with your lover. It is the moment when sultry and sexy meld into a wonderful time. We come to the last cut of the album, "The Centenary Diamond". We are all hunks of carbon, waiting for life to compress us into the large and flawless diamonds that shines inside. This is SIRPAUL's "Centenary Diamond".

'Seventh Star' is a bit more driven than the last two albums, but it still maintains an Electro-Pop feel, taking a journey over the emotional landscape of relationships, when Lovers Lane sometimes crosses over Sexy Boulevard, testing both our patience and out own self-awareness. At times we get on the emotional roller coaster, barely able to control ourselves, screaming with hands in the air. For other moments, there is nothing like the feeling as you ride with your hand in the hand of another, keeping contact. It is all part of the human journey, keeping our lives exciting. You can purchase 'Seventh Star' from iTunes and Amazon. To learn more about SIRPAUL, visit his official website. You can also find him in the social medias, 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter.

Mark Munroe • Drive

I first came across the music of Toronto-based singer/songwriter Mark Munroe a couple of years ago, and his music has kept my attention since. "Secret & Lies", his delicious single from 2010 is still on rotation for me, the sparkling music paired with saucy lyrics make me smile, especially with Munroe's coy and flirty vocals. Sexy is never an issue for the handsome Canadian, who also earns money as an actor and model in addition to his music.

The opening of "Drive" starts with staccato beats on the synthesizer, letting us know this ElectroPop is ready to lead the way. I can detect the influence of 1980s New Wave music, yet the track maintains a fresh sound a feel. I can't stop listening to it, and the only complaint I have is I want the album full of this music now! Until I get that, I suppose I will have to listen to the music I have. And it can never be a bad thing when a handsome guy sings about love, right? Here is a clip so you can hear "Drive" for yourself.

There is something just so addictive to the song, I tell you I play it all the time! You can purchase "Drive" from iTunes and Amazon. To discover more about Mark, check out his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. I am sure he'd appreciate hearing from you!

Romani Beau • Into The Night

I was recently contacted by a brand new artist, which is always thrilling. There is something so wonderful about the anticipation of hearing a new voice that just really excites me. So I was given the link to listen to the music of Romani Beau, and given a bit of information about him. Romani is from Kent, England, and feels the beauty of the area has influenced his music. A recent graduate from the Academy of Contemporary Music, Romani hopes to bring together the influences of Folk and Country music to make up his sound. He also looks to incorporate his live experience as a member of the LGBT community in his music, which always piques my interest.

When I first heard the news single, "Into The Night", there was no denying the romantic influences of the English Countryside as well as British poets like Percy Bysshe Shelley and John Keats. There is a strong organic feel to the Folk he makes, which somehow manages to own a 19th Century feel with a current veneer. There is a wonderful lush feel, especially in the chorus. I can only tell you 30 seconds in to my first listen, I was charmed and delighted, already wondering when and album would be available. I hope you enjoy "Into The Night" as well!

I truly find his music to be wonderfully fresh, a bold sound of Roots music, taking a traditional approach to Folk music with a strong Country influence. If Emmylou Harris and Woody Guthrie has a child that was raised alongside Percy Bysshe Shelley , it would be Beau. And with that combination, what is not to like? You can purchase "Into the Night" on Bandcamp. To learn more about Romani Beau, you can visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook, and 'follow' him on Twitter. He also wrote a blog about "Into The Night", which you can find here.

Sam Dickinson • The Stories That Occurred

Well, chalk up another one for J.D. Doyle. He posted about an out an proud musician from the UK on his Queer Music Heritage site, and when I asked about him, he spoke so glowingly, I got excited. So I went to iTunes, and pre-ordered his new CD, and then got to wait. When I finally had notice that Sam Dickinson's album 'The Stories That Occurred' was available to download, I couldn't wait, and gave a listen right away. Suffice it to say the album surpassed my already high expectations, and I have a new British boyfriend. And a handsome one, at that! At least I should, as much as I listen to him singing now. He has a great sound, harkening back to the soul music of the 1960s and 1970s, with some sexy brass sections adding some depth. But Dickinson's voice is so crisp and true, and never rests on retro-sounds, keeping the feel of the vocals very fresh and new.

So 'The Stories That Occurred' was released July 22, 2013, and I have been loving it since. There is such joy, such exuberance in the music, I swear, even as I sit alone and listen, I soon find myself pumping my fist to the beat, and singing alone with Dickinson. It happens from the start, on "How It Used to Be". There is a wonderful energy, and much of it is channeled into Dickinson's bold vocals, which could power all of England! The soulful sound, inspired more by Otis Redding than anyone else, wraps your ears in warm comfort, getting you ready to dance. In fact, if Redding and Lulu had a musical child, his name would be Sam Dickinson. The next track, "Away From Me" doesn't offer a break from the energy and joy. Dickinson's high-octane performance continues on "Learn to Wait", an early favorite of mine. It also happens to be the first music video, so get ready for the power that his Sam Dickinson.

So now you get it, right? On "When You Left Me", the Rock 'N Roll influence is loud and clear, and is a wonderful fit with Dickinson's voice. How he manages to combine the power and hurt is beyond me, but I have to admit I love it so much. And the last 30 seconds of the song gives me goosebumps. That is followed by the first ballad of the collection, the beautiful "Mistake Again". There is a wonderful softness to Dickinson's vocals in the verse, allowing us in to his heart. I hope you enjoy this live acoustic version of "Mistake Again" I found on his SoundCloud page.

While we have turned down the lights, Dickinson offers up another ballad, the ethereal "A Million Miles". There is a real element of the modern day torch song here, even though Dickinson imbues the song with a bold defiance while talking about the power in "one small kiss". On the next track, I swear that Sam found his inner Gloria Gaynor, for the bold bravado of "Don't Come Running Back" soars with a clenched fist punching at the air. Soon were are being greeted by "I've Gone, I've Quit", another track filled with chest-thumping warnings of a broken heart. On "Lift Your Head", there is a true melancholy that is palpable. The honesty in the hurt here is something special. From the first few seconds of "Our Day", I new this was another stunning ballad. For a treat, check out this live version of "Our Day" recorded at Hoochie Coochie in Sam's hometown of Newcastle Upon Tyne, the home of hard Funk, solid Soul and cool Jazz.

There is a wonderful vulnerability to this, and so many of the songs on the album. There is not a single track I don't love on this album. The only problem I see is that the Newcastle boy won't be playing in my area anytime soon. I can't imagine what a great night it must be to see this man performing live. But luckily, I have this album, brimming with Rock, Soul, and love that keeps me playing it again and again. You can purchase 'The Stories That Occurred' from iTunes, Amazon, and other online music stores. To learn more about Sam Dickinson, visit his official website. You can also 'follow' him on Twitter, and 'like' him on Facebook.

'Play My F**kn Remix' Sexy Cover From Sir Ari Gold

The sexy and shiny new cover art for Sir Ari Gold's soon-to-be-released 'Play My F**kn Remix' was shared with S2MD, and I couldn't be more excited. The project is the latest of ground-breaking artist Sir Ari Gold, who plans to integrate his latest remix album with a 3D music video directed by legendary Francis Legge. There is also a documentary in the works taking a look at Gold's life in music, where Sir Ari has been and out and proud singer from the beginning. The Remix album features several remixes from the top DJs of "Play My F**ck Record" off Gold's latest album, 'Between The Spirit & the Flesh'. Check out this live perofrmance of the song at XL Nightclub.

To see the full-sized cover, click here. For more about Sir Ari Gold, visit his official website. You can also like him on Facebook, and follow him on Twitter. Sir Ari will be more than happy to say "hello" on any of the social media. 'Between the Spirit & the Flesh' also features the hit singles "Make My Body Rock", Sparkle", and "My Favorite Religion". You can purchase the album on iTunes and Amazon.

Matt Doyle • Contant EP Released

Matt Doyle has released his latest EP, Constant. This is a lovely companion piece to his 2011 EP, Daylight. As with the first, Constant is a collection of original songs, written by Doyle and Will Van Dyke. And once again, Matt doesn't rest on his matinee-idol good looks, instead offering up a meaty selection of songs that will keep me happy and wanting more from this artist. Although I haven't heard this out artist singing live, every time I listen to either of his recordings I want to that much more. He has such a beautiful tone to his voice, with a sweet depth.



While Daylight was a soulful production, Constant veers more on the Pop side, but still delivers heartfelt honesty. After a simple and straightforward opening to "What You Stole", the slips into a bluesy beat as if it were a warm blanket, and it picks up momentum, much like the the young love he sings about. Soon we hear the opening to "Don't Wait", the second track. This is an interesting mixture of of soul and pop,driving yet understated. It almost has the feel of a great Country crossover hit. Next we have the storytelling of "Can't Stay Here". With talk of dreams, innocence and life moving on, with or without you, the song lifts you up as it builds, then caresses to a conclusion. There is a nostalgic feel to "Can't Have You", a blues song that sparkles with a sequin feel. But that doesn't stop Doyle from reaching down to give a little growl from time to time. That was the perfect segue into the call and response sexiness of "Love Ain't Making Me Right". Doyle's voice adds another level of sexiness as he reaches deep down for strong emotional truth. For the final cut off the EP, he returns to the Pop sound on "Walls". It seems love is still a strong inspiration for good music, and once again Doyle makes a delivery straight from his heart.



To get a taste of this yummy EP, watch this video for "What You Stole" at the Constant release party, taped at Bon Soir Mondays at the Pink Elephant earlier this month.



You can purchase your copy of Constant from iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

Tyrannasaurus Grace • You Should Be Ashamed

I am forever getting requests to give a listen to music, and I can never tell how it will work out. Sometimes I am pleasantly surprised, and other times that is hardly the case. Luckily for me, listening to Much More Than A Story was much more than a pleasant surprise. In fact, it was rather wonderful. The band was brought to my attention for their song, "You Should Feel Ashamed". So I clicked on the link, and gave it a listen. I immediately had to smile, for the joyous and bold guitars emanated a wonderful energy. And lyrically, well, it starts out in your face, a rock band stepping up to confront the issues of homophobia and inequality head on, and with volume turned up to eleven...



So I was curious to discover more about Tyrannosaurus Grace, aka TGrace. The band began when friends Justin Foss (lead guitar, keys) and Tim Held (vocals, guitar, keys) began writing songs together, via the internet. Once they discovered they not only liked working together, they were also making great music, they decided to find a space in the Pacific Northwest, and make something happen. They were joined by Dave Hoffman (drums), Lakyn Bury (vocals, guitar, keys), and Jeff Gerrer (bass), and Tyrannosaurus Grace was born.



This is definitely a band full of rockers, but it is interesting to me how they draw on all kinds of rock. I definitely hear the influences of Punk and New Wave, as well as some of the strong altrock bands of the 1990s. The eleven-song album is bold and at times brash, with TGrace carving out a sound of their own. Starting with the ethereal instrumental "Overture", we hear them embracing Electronica as well as electric guitars. With "Trust Us", we understand TGrace has a voice and wants to be heard, both literally and figuratively. They are fearless in addressing issues both personal and political, from religion to marriage equality to lust to jealousy. One of my favorites off the album is "Crutch", a strong 7th track of loud introspection. I also really like the sultry nature of "Monster". Check out this clip of the band playing live, with Lakyn Bury on the vocals.



You can find Much More Than A Story on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby. To learn more about TGrace, visit their official website, or check them out on Twitter or Facebook.

Casey Stratton • The Calling of the Crows

Singer/songwriter Casey Stratton has a new album ready for you to hear, and The Calling of the Crows is well-wroth a listen. The 12-song collection is a mature and strong one, and arguably Casey's best effort yet, a high compliment considering how much I love his music. Casey makes his music in Michigan, and continues a long tradition of indie artists who stay true to their muse while making amazing music without the corporate interference of a record label. There is a beauty in Casey's voice, which holds up well to the layered production that flows so beautifully. The album is the product of Casey's talent and emotional expression, for he not only wrote and produced the album, he is also responsible for all the instruments featured. The album kicks off with "The Bitter Truth," a moody opening charged with a beat felt deep in my core. Give a listen for yourself.



About six weeks ago, Casey offered the EP When The Fates Came, featuring the second cut on the album of the same name. Read about that EP here. That is the only song shared by the 6-song EP and this release. "Ghosts In The Walls" offers an urgency in the insistent beat, with a tribal feel. The words carry their own poetry, evoking a dark inner-dialogue worthy of Poe. There is a simplicity in "Second Life" that is both refreshing and rejuvenating. There is something about the beginning to "Tears That Know Your Name" that makes me think Kelly Clarkson could slay this song. There is a depth to "Sacred Tattoo" that really needs to be heard.



The first few bars of "Waiting" has a strong sense of foreboding, quickly surpassed by the urgency of love. On the other hand, "The Roads of Time" has such a feeling of nostalgia, of love and life shared. "Wait by the Water" has the sound of traditional Folk music, with a quality of chanting and storytelling that makes one sit up and listen. "Mile Markers" is a ballad that has the air of confession, with a touch of guilt and confusion. The next track carries a bit of the Celtic tradition, as you might expect from "Elegy". There is an honesty and a frankness brought to life by Casey's brilliant vocals. Finally, there is "Wanderlust". The aching begins with the opening of the track, with the introspective music drawn forward by the driving beat of the drum. Along with these great songs comes a wonderful e-book that features the lyrics, liner notes, and some beautiful images from photographer Terry Johnston. You can purchase The Calling of the Crows directly from Casey on his online store. You can learn more about Terry Johnston at his official website. And for more information about Casey and his music, visit his official website.

Nhojj • Wade In The Water

Nhojj just rereleased the song "Wade In The Water," off his 2001 album I've Been Waiting For You. The song, much like the rest of the album, is a tranquil and beautiful song, with a serene soul. There is just something so soothing, both inside and out. Check it out.



There is just so much to recommend about the album, but have to admit I have a bit strapped for time, this being a very busy weekend for me. So I would advise you to buy the album, and let Nhojj lay his magic on you. You can find out more about Nhojj on his official website. You can purchase I've Been Waiting For You or the song "Wade In The Water" from iTunes, Amazon, and Bandcamp.

B.Slade™ • Deep Purple • Available Now

The amazing B.Slade™ has released more music available, and Deep Purple is another example of his outstanding work, offering up the very best of R&B and Hip-Hop seasoned with just the right amount of sauciness. The out and proud musician offers this 14-track album that delivers over an hour of music, starting with "Mama Jaila's Intro." The music had me ready to move, first while in my chair. It wasn't long before I was out of the chair, dancing around the room. Check out the second cut off Deep Purple, "PHONy PONy," featuring Jaila Simms, Trevon James & DDM.



The music is just amazing, sporting a delicious sheen, just waiting for me to lick it like frothy whipped cream. It was a perfect listen over the holiday weekend, from the smoothness of "TwerK" to the yumminess of the title cut, which recalled the best of Janet Jackson's musical spirit. Give a listen to the sixth cut off Deep Purple, "2 Get 2."



I swear that B.Slade sows seeds of great music to make such strong new music. Listening to the album is like planning an exquisite meal for someone you love. With each cut, you feel it can't top what you have already heard, but quickly you feel the salivary glands kicking in, and you just want to take in some more. I find myself standing up, my hips moving and my fingers running through the hair. I open my eyes to discover I've been moving around the room, turned around from where I started. Take "Never Love This Way," another great cut. It sends me out once again, ready to dance with the rest of the world.



Yeah, that one recalled some of the greatest pop ballads of the 80s, without ever feeling dated or nostalgic. Deep Purple is filled with just joy, such heart, you can help but be touched by it, from beginning to end. B.Slade is in top form, making amazing music I find impossible to resist. Give a listen, and I don't think you will be able to resist, either. For more about B.Slade, visit his official website. You can purchase Deep Purple on iTunes and Amazon.

Cheyenne Jackson • Drive

Cheyenne Jackson has released a new video for "Drive," the single off his soon to be released EP. The incredibly talented Jackson, who has gotten great reviews for roles on the Broadway stage, film, and television, including in a New York City Center Encore! Production of Damn Yankees, when he stole the show. Well, he did for me, for he was so good, sang so beautifully, and was, well, so strikingly handsome, you just can't not watch him. I had also purchased The Power Of Two, the album he did with Michael Feinstein (whom I also love!), following a sold out run at Feinstein's at Lowes Regency in a show of the same name. In preparation to releasing the new EP, "Drive" is a surprising Pop song, and Jackson is in excellent voice. I love it. Check out the video now.



I will mention I was surprised not to see Jackson in the video, but I was so intrigued with the animation while it was happening, it didn't occur to me he wasn't in it until later. There is some cool graphics, and it fits the song so well. You can purchase "Drive" on iTunes or Amazon. You can also find out more about Cheyenne Jackson on his official website. You can also find him on Facebook and Twitter. When the EP is released, I will be sure to let everyone know! And if there are any live shows, I'll also report that. I would love to to see him performing a Pop show!

Ian Wilson • This Is Water Album Review

When I was checking out JD Doyle's May issue of OutRadio, I came across a couple of talented LGBT performers, and one was Ian Wilson. I was drawn to the interesting tone of his voice, and the intricate sound of his music. Today, Ian releases This Is Water, a full album filled to the brim with great music. Ian calls his music Folktronica, a catchy description, to be sure. That left me filled with intrigue, and ready to be very attentive when I hit play on the advanced copy I received from the artist.



The album begins with the awesome "Indentured Servant." Right away, I am grabbed by his voice, a beautiful baritone. In fact, it reminds me a little bit of the sound of Brad Roberts, the vocalist for Crash Test Dummies. This perfectly complements the piano-driven music, which combines Folk, Rock, and Electronica in a melodic way. The music is layered and energetic, matching the intensity of the vocals in this highly personal and volatile journey. The next track, "Crate & Barrel," changes it up, offering a bluesy arrangement, boldly making a song about a breakup use the tempo to show the frenetic energy relationships can bring about.



"Resurrection Ship" pulls the energy back inward, confessional. The song soars with its simplicity, keeping with a strong melody, allowing the lyrics to bloom. Harkening back to moody Folk, "Old Soul" is a dark tale, told with a light hand. There is the feel of Folk, but the piano brings it to a greater urgency, a bright spark. "Bad Ideas Work Best" starts off with ethereal vocals, adding an R&B feel to this lovely ballad. While it retains the soulful gooey center, the instrumentation give it more crunch, a perfect response to emotional vocals. The electronic percussion track brings "Nitrogen" to a elemental pace, one that organically builds, with Ian's vocals playing with the tempo, bringing up with him at the pace he wants to travel. The haunting imagery cuts through it all, leaving me touched. "Bad Wolf Bay" has a hectic beginning, with layers seemingly competing with one another, but at times also feeling in total harmony, much like the relationship the song describes. Complete with bomb blasts. There is a loveliness to the opening of "Se Dice No," and it feels almost classical in structure. But that eases into more of a Pop flow, celebrating chance, the roll of the dice. Then a cool piano riff pops up, and it is time to hear "Made."



From the brightness of the beginning, the song builds in strength and texture as it moves along, taking my emotions with it. That leaves the final track off the album, "Balancing Act." I love this on so many levels. There is the beauty of the song, but also how that applies to the whole album, and what a great job Ian did on the balancing act when he put this album together. One of the truly impressive accomplishments of this album is the way it remains cohesive, a full album, while taking some twists and turns on a fascinating journey. There are moments I thought I was listening to music written by Bob Dylan, and others felt it was inspired by the early music from Genesis, the Peter Gabriel years. Then I hear a bit of Memphis Blues, followed by a bit of self-aware Folk. This is a very special collection of music, at times light and breezy, and at times dense and sculpted. I am so happy to make this a part of my collection, and you should do the same.



You can find This Is Water on iTunes, Amazon. and should soon be on CD Baby. For more about Ian Wilson, visit his official website. You can also find him on Facebook.

The Eric Himan Band • FREE Download!

As an introduction to a new group, The Eric Himan Band was recently recorded live for 97.5 KMOD, Tulsa's Rock Radio. The band is fronted by one of my favorite out musicians, Eric Himan. There are five tracks in total, with four live performances and an interview. Two of the songs are off Eric's latest album Supposed Unknown. The list included Blood On Her Lips, and Dust. Here is a clip of Eric performing Dust live on his solo tour not long ago.



Playing with Eric are bassist Todd Shaver, guitarist Ted Scott, and drummer Erin Nelson. Together, they play some rocking versions of Eric's 2011 single You're Gonna Need Me and For Me, off the 2008 album Resonate. You can listen to all the tracks on the widget below, to give you a chance to hear the new sound.



To get the FREE DOWNLOAD, either click on the widget above, or click here. For more about Eric, check out his official website.

Sacha Sacket • One Day Arrive • Free Music

As Sacha Sacket gets closer to releasing new music, he thought of us fans who were starving to get a taste. At least that is what I have decided , since I discovered yesterday he had a post on Facebook with a link to a video. Okay, I will admit it, I also have a bit of a crush on Sacha, who is certainly a handsome man. But I really love his music. Heritage is an amazing album, and Shadowed just rocked me. I was thrilled to see it was a video of a live performance of a new song, One Day Arrive, shot in the studio! Watch and enjoy...



You, too, can download both the song and the video for free. To download, visit the Youtube page, and find the links. You can also check him out on his official website. But I will warn you, since the first time I listened, I've been hooked. Sacha is fairly addictive. Now that new music is coming, I am hoping I get a chance to see him perform live.

SIRPAUL™ • The Horse Available Now!

SIRPAUL™ has released a new album, and it is amazing. The Horse is a colossal 15-track collection. From the start to the finish, it is evident this is a Thoroughbred, earning a blanket of roses with a display of superior ability and incredible grace. The echoing sound of hooves beating down move closer, and your pulse increases. No, not for fear of being run over by a horse, but because you know SIRPAUL™ is going to take you on another incredible journey with his latest release, The Horse. The opening track was Ride.



With the opening chords of Human Machine, SIRPAUL encourages us to look inward to make ourselves the best we could be, not wait for some external upgrade. That is followed by the sensual treat, Body Connection. The single features a collaboration with Loco Ninja.

Body Connection featuring Loco Ninja


On songs like Body Condition, and King of the World, there is the overwhelming thoughts of trying to make yourself better, stronger, and figuring out how to do that in this modern world. I feel the punk influences of bands like Debbie Harry’s Blondie. Lay It On Me turns the conversation to love, and how we fumble our way to it. The opening of Glow slows it down for a few bars, before free-falling into love with a driving beat.



I have to admit, when I first saw the song title for Like A Horse , I had a giggle and my silly teenaged brain. However, the song is sweet ballad to love. The next track, The Beat of my Heart, has the feel of a slick 1980s New Wave track with free-form prose over a synthesized beat. SIRPAUL shifts gears on In Your Eyes, a call for love in the sweetest way. The 5th Pocket changes up once again, with a darker beat and sound making sure we all "check yourself." There are a couple of tracks that amp up the darkness, more dense and foreboding. In fact, I’d say Strict, Hardcore Crazy and Dark Beat seemed to be coming from a different place than the others. They sound like they come from a darker, edgier part of your soul. Do they shine some light in there for you? “No,” he answered. “They reveal the darkness by pulling you into it with me.”



There is something hypnotizing about Nude, a strong song about love, and the emotional catharsis of how love freshens out souls. The album ends with Universal Love (Sing A Song), driven by the passion of love, celebrating love with a shout from the streets and hitting the dance floor. It is a celebration of life and love, a Dancing In The Streets for a new age.



Once again, SIRPAUL has made me a believer in his talent, and I hope you, too. You can purchase the Horse on iTunes and Amazon. Get your copy now, so you don't have to wonder what took you so long.

Angelo • Narcissus Drowned Released!

It is finally here, the release of Angelo's album Narcissus Drowned! The title itself is can be found in the story of the striking Greek God who was so entranced by his own beauty reflected in a still pond, he lost himself in the pond, never realizing he gave his heart to himself. Now that I finally get a chance to hear the music as a whole, and not just a few singles and remixes I've had over the past year, I am thrilled with it. Indeed, well worth the wait, but with Angelo, I didn't expect any less. And after a short track that is a kind of forward, we jump into the title track, Narcissus Drowned. We begin the story, as our hero descend to the darkness of the water, drifting slowly away from the light.



That is followed by the song Keep Calm. In it, there is a certain sexy urgency in the guitar riff that starts off the song, massaged in by whisper Angelo uses in the opening.



From the first note, Hands Down has a buoyancy and joy, and it revels in a sensuality of the music. The fourth track is Time Bomb, which is a sustained seduction, a flirtation, trying to call you to the dance floor.



That is followed by Sinner & the Saint, one of my favorites on the album, a dance track with a sexy sound with a call and response almost gospel in intent. that is followed by Terrible Heart, is a heart-wrenching ballad, a story that would be a tragedy in the theater. As our Narcissus searches for himself, he just wants to Go'head and get down on the dance floor. He's looking for a dance, not a date that could complicate his search... That leaves us with three remixes, interesting yet different visions of the tales already told. We have a chance to give a listen to Narcissus Drowned (Requiem), Time Bomb (Rac Remix), and Sinner & the Saint (Buffetlibre Remix).



The Narcissus Drowned album can be found on iTunes and Amazon. For more about Angelo, check out his official website. You can also find him on Twitter or Facebook.