Matt Zarley • Still Time To Be Hopeful

I just wanted to offer up a little reminder that you have until Wednesday afternoon, December 18, 2013, to be a part of the romance with Matt Zarley. Just one look at a picture of the handsome and talented actor and you can see how easy it would be to feel the romance, and be quite hopeful about it. 'Hopeful Romance' is the name of the upcoming project from Zarley, the new album he is looking to release in the coming year. And I am not the only one offering up reminders, for Matt has released a couple of pictures to remind people out it.

And, by 'it', I mean his Kickstarter page, set up to help Matt raise some of the money needed to album, and the accompanying music videos. The videos are helpful in promoting the music, as anyone who reads this blog regularly must know. Another given is the fact that Zarley is a natural on camera, as he has been wonderful to watch in previous music videos, like one of my favorites, for the song "Trust Me".

"Trust Me" was written by Matt, Mark Picchiotti, and Joe Hurt. The track appears on his last album, 'Change Begins With Me'. The video was directed and edited by Benjamin Pollack, and choreographed by Benjamin Allen. And while Matt does sexy and flirty so very well, he also can deliver the goods when it comes to heartfelt and sweet. The song was written by Matt and Andy Zulla, and produced by Grammy winner, Zulla. This video was directed by Randal Kirk II. This is the music video for "Perfect", also off the latest album.

It didn't take shirtless shots to get me to be a part of Matt's campaign. It is all about the music, and damn, does he do that so well. I will admit I have the Matt Zarley discography in my collection, including his wonderful Christmas song, "One More Christmas With You". So I became a supporter, and would encourage you to do the same. With only a few days remaining to make a pledge, you can give as little or as much as you'd like. For $15, you can get a download of the album before it is available to the public.

If you would like to learn even more about Matt Zarley, visit his official website. You can also 'like' him on Facebook and 'follow' him on Twitter. But most importantly, you can find Matt Zarley on Kickstarter. Check him out, I'm sure he'd love to hear from you on any of the above!

Get Stupid With Brendan Maclean

Australian singer/songwriter Brendan Maclean has begun work on this latest recording, and has asked for a bit of help with that. And an independent musician, he has no corporate backing for the project, and so he looks to his fans and the people who believe in his talent to join him in his journey. One way to do that is to become a part of his Pozible campaign. Pozible is a fundraising site, much like Kickstater, Indie-Go-Go, or PledgeMusic. But before I go there, how about a little reminder about Brendan?

It is almost hard for me to believe, but I first mentioned Brendan on this blog almost two years ago, when I posted his hilarious cover of Rebecca Black's "Friday". That was brought to my attention by another gifted musician, David Raleigh. And once I saw his first video for the song "Practically Wasted", I was truly hooked.

So I purchased his EP, 'White Canvas', and have been eagerly awaiting new music from this fantastic out and proud musician. Along the way, I've been able to enjoy some thoughtful yet whimsical cover songs he's made available on YouTube, as well as a few singles. One of those singles was "OnlyOnly", letting Brendan release his inner rocker for this fantastic music video.

But back to the point at hand. Brendan is working on a new album, and is putting the finishing touches on his first single, "Stupid". Of course, he'd like everyone to get stupid with him, But I should allow him to explain it all to you.

If you are interested in joining the campaign to make the new record "Pozible", there are many ways to participate. For just $2, you can get an electronic copy of "Stupid" when it becomes available. For $5, you can get a signed copy of the physical single. For $13, you can get a download link for the new record once it is completed this April/May. Well, you get the idea. There are many choices, some of which include recordings made just for you, personal messages from Brendan, and many others. Check out the choices at the Pozible website. It is easy to sign up for an account, and if you decide to join in the fun, you can use a credit or debit card, on a secure link, or use your PayPal account. I believe in supporting musicians making music you enjoy. If you want to hear more from Brendan Maclean, this is a perfect opportunity to step up and make sure great music continues to be made. I know I did!

Still Time to Make a "Formal" Pledge to Eric Himan

Just wanted to remind everyone there is still time to be a part of the fundraising for Eric Himan Band's 'Formal' album. I will fully admit I have long been addicted to the music of Eric Himan, for longer than I might think. After all, the above pictures were taken by me, at two different shows at Philadelphia's World Cafe Live. So when I saw Eric was putting something together for a new album for the Eric Himan Band, I was eager to be a part of it. And you have that same chance. The thought of Eric getting all electrified was exciting, and I remembered I had a video of him playing the electric guitar, on the Phil Collins' classic, "In The Air Tonight."

With a range of investments from $10 to $2,000, anything is possible. I say investments, for you are always getting something back for your money. You can check that out at the official Pledge Music site.

New From Guest House Films • The Men Next Door

Writer/director/producer Rob Williams has worked on several of the more charming and delightful romantic comedies, and looks like he has another winner ready to work on. However, the man behind Guest House Films. This is the company responsible for the gay-themed films Role/Play, Make The Yuletide Gay, 3-Day Weekend, Back Soon and Long-Term Relationship. All those DVD have found their way into my collection, so it only seems right that this film would as well. Rather than me typing away, how if I let Rob talk to you about it?



There are plenty of ways you can stand up for gay indie features and get a reward for that support. You can give from $1 to $10,000, although I suspect that most of you are more like me, and only have so much money available. For just $10, you can get your name in the credits of the movie, with thanks. For $15, you can get a digital download of the movie when completed, as well as a mention in the credits. For $50, you can get a autographed copy of the finished DVD, as well as some other collectible items. There are many more options to get a look at. To find out how you can work out your investment, visit the IndieGoGo site. You have until Tuesday, May 15th at midnight to lend your support for a production company who has been making films the major studios would dream of making. That is just a little over three weeks. I offered my support, and hope you do, too!

Goliad Uprising

Silent protestors dragged away in handcuffs, tasered and beaten because they held up a cardboard sign? Attention crazed reporters racing to broadcast lies they don't have time to verify? Web applications that know every personal detail about you, sell it for profit or carelessly allow it to be stolen?

It's time for a Goliad Uprising...

What is "Goliad Uprising"? It is one woman and one man's fight to stop a corporate world run amuck. What else is Goliad Uprising? It is when we've decided we have enough of this recklessness with our lives and we're making a movie, a sci-fi thriller, to reclaim our rights to our own lives.

Paul Bright says "It's time for a Goliad Uprising!" Bright, the writer/director/producer of such films as Angora Ranch, Theft, Aaron...Albeit A Sex Hero, Altitude Falling, and the soon-to-be-released Abrupt Decision, will soon begin work on his next feature, Goliad Uprising. "This movie was supposed to have a much bigger budget," Paul revealed, "with investors and profit sharing and all that stuff. Instead of waiting around several years for the financial gurus to bless us with manna from heaven, we're making it ourselves. The script rocks, the story explodes, the cast and crew are ready to go."

To get the ball rolling, Paul opened a page at Indie-GoGo, hoping to have the assistance of filmgoers who would know his work. You know, like me. And like you. As with most of these projects, there is an array of perks that correspond to the tax-deductible donation. $10 will get you a personal and heart-felt "thank you" from Paul. $25 will get you the DVD before the actual DVD release, as well as thanks from Bright. A $40 donation will get you a role in the party scene (in Austin, TX), and you will get your name in the credits, and be listed on IMDb! For a donation of $75, you can name a character in the movie, and even suggest an interesting quirk. $100 will get you dinner with the cast and crew on the set in Austin, TX, a rare treat. These and many more perks are all available to you.

To make your donation, click here to find out the particulars of it all. One look at my DVD library and I knew I would be making my donation, as I have Bright's first four movies on the shelf, with the fifth just waiting for release.



The cast includes Indie powerhouse Shannon Lark. I wouldn't be surprised to see a few other familiar faces from his other movies, too. But there is nothing to watch if the funding doesn't come together, so take the time to go here to donate. Share it with your friends, on FaceBook or on Twitter. Just click on the box below to visit the page and let Paul explain it all to you. Take a stand, and let your voice be heard. Make it your own Goliad Uprising.

Jason & deMarco Kickstarter

The always adorable couple of Jason & deMarco are making a new album featuring live recordings of some of their favorite and most soulful spiritual songs, something to look forward to. But like many who are putting out their own music, they could use a little helping hand to make that music available. Not to worry, they aren't asking for a donation, you will be getting your choice of many things in return. I'll let deMarco explain it to you.



You might remember Jason & deMarco from earlier posts, where I played songs like their wonderful This Is Love.



So, with choices as varied as autographed CDs to singing phone calls to dinner with the boys to a live show in your living room, all you have to do is click through to Kickstarter. Check them out here. You can also check them out on their official website here.

Toby Madigan's Arrested!

Book'im, Dano. Cuff him and lead him away. Well, at least to the nearest YouTube stop, where you can watch Toby Madigan in the video for his latest song, Arrested. I am really loving it, like I did his debut release with the singles Chatroom Romance and Somebody. Watch Arrested Now!



Toby is making the video now so it can go up on LOGO.com and be a part of the Clicklist, where people can vote and the video can be seen. It is going to be a part of the new album Toby is finishing up, Symphony of Sweat. And since I know that many of you out there would love to partake in a bit of that symphony with a handsome man like Toby, now might be the right time to say you can lend Toby a helping hand. Perhaps I would be better off letting him talk to you about it.



Click here to PLEDGE or click here to go to Toby's website. A pledge of $10 or more will get you a membership to the official website, as well as a FREE mp3 of the song "Arrested", access to weekly "Behind the Scenes Footage" (making the video, recording studio, and more!), Full Album Download - for FREE - the day it is RELEASED, only for those who pledge before May 15, 2011, and your name on the Supporters Page! (or simply choose to be anonymous). So much for a small offer of support, how could you go wrong? Need more incentive? How about watching a clip from his debut, Left Brain/Right Brain, the hysterical and charming Chatroom Romance.



So, for more information about the sexy and handsome singer/songwriter, check out Toby's official website here.

Happy Birthday Derek Nicoletto!

Tomorrow is not only Thanksgiving, it is also the birthday of one of my delightful musical crushes. It started when I heard his voice singing lead for Telling On Trixie, and I saw the video for Orion's Light and the next thing I knew, I was searching the internet learn about them. As anyone who reads this blog can tell, I love all kinds of music, but I loves me some rock. TOT made some cool rock. The music was hot, and Derek's vocals just elevated the sound to a different level.



When I discovered Derek was an out and proud frontman, I was doubly delighted. In my younger years, I discovered rock crowds are not the most welcoming crowds, so this was big for me. I jumped on board with TOT, and wrote to Derek, to express my appreciation. He was very sweet in his reply. I've never looked back. I was wad when I got the tweet that TOT broke up, but stayed in touch with Derek. I was thrilled when he started a new project, Derek & the Darling. I was near giddy when I saw the first video, shot by the amazing Julian Rad, for Hustler With A Rescue Plan.

DATD Hustler with a Rescue Plan Music Video from Julian Rad on Vimeo.

Alas, that group soon came to an end, but once again, I stayed in touch. And I have gotten so excited when I heard Derek was planning to go back in the studio to start a solo project. OK, so maybe near-giddy is a better explanation. To try to speed up the process a bit, Derek is looking to raise some funding for studio time, and started a Kickstater page. You can find it here. It is easier to let Derek explain it all to you.



Like other similar projects, it is not about just donating money, but also getting back on your investment. You can give what you can afford, and in return, you can get a return, be it an autographed copy of the album, invites to the release party, included in the liner notes, or a private house concert. The list is on the Kind Ghosts page here or by clicking on the Kickstarter widget belo.



I've said it before, and I'll continue to say it. If you like good music, music that really talks to you, that nourishes your soul, you should support it. I try as much as I can, even more so in these tough economic times. I don't listen to the radio much any more - if I hear another tween/tween wannabe warbling I just might scream. I find the music I want to hear, and support those artists. I try to go to as many shows as I can, buy their music, buy their t-shirts, whatever. If I can help them make more music, it means I will have something to listen to, and I won't be forced to hear the shrill garbage the studios put out. Sure, it isn't all bad, but most of it is. For every Miley Cyrus or Justin Bieber, there are amazing artists like Derek, Eric Himan, Levi Kreis, Tom Goss, Christopher Dallman, Aiden James, Casey Stratton, Andy Moore, and so many more. These are the artists who really need our support, and who have mine.

Aiden James on WSTW Hometown Heroes

Here in Delaware, we are lucky enough to have a radio station, WSTW, 93.7 on the FM dial, which features a weekly Sunday night broadcast that spotlights local musicians on air. The host, Mark Rogers, does a great job interacting with the performers, and allowing them a comfortable place to showcase their music. He performed a then untitled song, since gaining a title - Crashing Down. As is always the case, Aiden is in amazing voice for the performance.



Aiden is in the studio working on a new album. In order to get this accomplished, he is looking for some assistance in getting it the funding. Like so many of the independent musicians, he has set up a page where you can give money, and in return, you will be getting something as well, depending on the amount you give. That site is here. You can donate anywhere from $5 to the sky's the limit. Check out this new song Aiden has written, and might very well end up on the new album. It is On My Sleeve.



With a donation of $25 or more, you will get an autographed advance copy of the album. For a donation of $50, you will receive that as well as a signed copy of his album On The Run. For $75, you will get the above, a signed tour poster, and your name will be on the guest list at a show of your choice. Well, you get the idea, you money will get you something in return. Check it out here! If more encouragement might help, how about this amazing video for the title single On The Run?



I know I post about this from time to time - but I think it is important to support the great talent we have in the LGBT community. It is an investment in my future happiness, because it means I will be getting more great music in my life. Singer/songwriters like Aiden need our support, like buying their music and attending their shows, to make a living, and put out the next album. Whether you buy the music on iTunes, CDBaby or the artists' website, or buying the CD at the live show, it is all good. Or maybe a tour t-shirt is more your thing? If you are going to buy the album anyway, why not put your money upfront and get yourself an autographed copy?

And, did I mention how great it feels to support the performers? To know you've had a hand in helping great music being made is a great feeling. I may not be able to play an musical instrument or carry a tune, but I can support those that can. And you know what? You can too! In fact, you can do it now, right here.

Jake Walden - Bleeding Love

At the beginning of the month, I posted about the fundraising for a new album from Jake Walden, and he just posted an update that I would share with the readers. But first, I will offer a bit of background. I have had the luck to see Jake performing live twice, one on the Rock The Folk OUT tour with Tom Goss and Stewart Lewis, and again at a show in Washington, DC, with Tom Goss. I met him afterward, and he was very much like he was in this video, adorable as all hell, sweet, and a tad nervous, but a good kind of nervous, like the energy from the shows were fueling him. In the previous post (here), I talked about how he was trying to get funds together to go into the studio for a new album of material, and the first goal was to raise $10,000 by the end of the month. This is a clip of Jake talking to fans at the Dreamers event about the project.



With that first goal met, the cutie now has to complete the next stage, which is to raise more money. He's got the talent, the material, and the drive, all he needs are some more people who will want to hear his music. I have long railed that if we want to hear great music that we enjoy, and that speaks to us and our experience, it is our responsibility to support those acts that fulfill our needs. I do it, and am damn glad I do. I have given to funds for other artists, like Aiden James and Gregory Douglass, or to films like Judas Kiss or Paul Bright's movies. I give what I can, which isn't very much, but I want these artists to understand their music matters, at least to me, and I want more. That is why I gave to this project before I wrote that first post. And just in case you need a little more temptation, I thought I would offer another song. This is a live recording of Jake singing the Leona Lewis song Bleeding Love with Bonnie Somerville, putting their own particular spin on it, making it his own.



So, if you could, take the time to stop by his page on Kickstarter here and watch his video, and see the options available. You can donate anything from $1 to, well, whatever, and for donations over $12, you will get something in return. Most of all, remember the quality of his music, and how proud you can be in supporting an artist in making it. IF you would like to check out some more, go to Jake's official website here, join his mailing list, and get a free copy of the single Alive And Screaming. Give it a listen and I am convinced you will be a fan.

Same Something Different - Jake Walden

Jake Walden, at play and at work.

Announcing he is in the planning stages of a new album, a follow-up to the amazing 2008 release Alive And Screaming, Jake Walden has started a fundraising effort to help with the costs of recording. Before I get too much further into that, let me remind you a bit about the artist. Handsome, out and proud, the singer/songwriter sings highly personal and beautiful songs, his voice at times aching, at other times reveling in life. Take, for example, the song We Are in a live performance.



The title cut from Alive And Screaming is not only a great example of his work, but also was heard on the soundtrack of an episode of the show Scrubs. It is a beautiful song with amazing layers and textures, all shown beautifully by Jake's vocal performance.



And here is a video of the song Same Something Different at a show in Las Vegas. The song shares a name with the new album, so it might just give you a little insight into the music to come. I was lucky enough to see him perform this live at a show in Washington DC. He was there with Tom Goss.



As I said, Jake has started to raise money for his next album, and the first goal is at the end of the month. As with many independent artists, the cost of studio time and promotion of new music is all left to the artist, and is a heavy burden. When you come across talented out artists like Jake, and enjoy their music, what better way to ensure they continue to enrich your life with that music than with your support? So, if you could, take the time to stop by his page on Kickstarter here and watch his video, and see the options available. You can donate anything from $1 to, well, whatever, and for donations over $12, you will get something in return. Most of all, remember the quality of the music on this page alone, just these three songs, and realize this is an artist worth supporting. Need more convincing? Go to Jake's official website here, join his mailing list, and get a free copy of the single Alive And Screaming. Give it a listen and I am convinced you will be a fan.

Judas Kiss Fundraiser

Top: Charlie David, left, & Brent Corrigan, right.

The makers of Judas Kiss, a film that tells the story of a disillusioned filmmaker’s visit to his peculiar alma mater caught in a tug of war between his tortured past and a troubled future, have taken to the web to raise money to up the ante on the film.



They are looking to fund an upgrade for the camera as well as other projects to a film that is already schedule to be made. The film is slated to star Charlie David and Brent Corrigan. The effort ends on Saturday, July 10, at 2:00PM EDT.



To give money to support LGBT films, click here. For more information about the movie so you can add your support, check out their official website here.

Gregory Douglass Virtual House Concert

I have been a fan of this talented out and proud Vermont singer/songwriter, whose expressive vocals and searching songs have me mesmerized whenever I listen. He recently started to perform at virtual house concerts, online shows that double as a fundraiser for his next album, expected to be released in 2011. But rather than allow myself to blather on and say something stupid along the way, I will leave Gregory Douglass to the explanation.



As I said, I am a fan. I have five albums, as well as a a couple of EPs, and I love them all. I would encourage everyone to stop by his virtual show on Monday evenings at 9PM EST, and check him out. He will sound something like the following.

Sadly [from Battler]


Broken Through [from Battler]


Hang Around [from Up & Away]


To see his show, you can find him on JustinTV here. You can also check out his official website here. There you will find picture, music, and videos, everything you would need. On the JustinTV page, you will find places to click to pre-order the new release, or to donate money to the costs. The costs are big for the independent musicians, and you can see on the donation sight he has a business plan in place, complete with a budget for the project. This young man, like so many of his contemporaries, has a business model in mind to take care of their talent and career.