MUSIC REVIEWS

Often as vulnerable in tone as any of the actual lyrics in the songs they’re featured in are, the strings we find in the new record from Ranzel X Kendrick, Alias Wayne’s Fubar, are a crucial element of communication that is inarguably at the foundation of every stitch of material presented …

Those who dismiss instrumental music driven by piano and flute as easy-listening tripe will do well to give Outside the Maze, the new release from Gilliam/Martynec/McBirnie, a chance. The trio expands the possibilities of instrumental music within this context in ways that will surprise and delight even the most cynical listener. …

Face-melting harmonies aren’t as common in rock music as they used to be, but this isn’t enough to deter Unlettered from making them the bedrock of their new record New Egypt, out now wherever quality indie noise rock is sold and streamed. New Egypt, as its title would imply, isn’t your typical …

Vineet Singh Hukmani’s ambitions separate him from the pack. The Indian singer/songwriter isn’t content with the tried and true approach to releasing new music but, instead, casts his nets far afield of the ordinary. It didn’t begin that way, however. Hukmani established his reputation during the COVID-19 pandemic and its aftermath …

America has a truly great tradition when it comes to making credible rock n’ roll that entire generations of fans have been able to relate to and take some influence from, and Benevolent & Divine is looking to continue that tradition this spring with a new single in “Hyacinth” that …

The last few years have been unpredictable on virtually every front, from politics to pandemics and everything in between, but the arts have always kept society moving at some pace or another. Music specifically has responded much as it always does – with a soundtrack worthy of the moment – …

Toy City’s self-titled debut features seven originals written by Paul Burke and Steve Shaheen along with two surprising covers. The covers bookend the album revealing the conscious intent behind the track listing and the remaining seven tracks hold up well in comparison. There’s an obvious aesthetic driving the creation of …

2023 has provided us with quite an interesting year for music fans on all fronts, and this is especially true in the world of singer/songwriters and their ongoing movement toward the mainstream. Diversity of style and aesthetical influence has transformed from a flash to an all-out explosion in recent times, …

Energy presents a diversely-appointed collection of hard rock rhythm and mighty melodic power balladry in their debut album after forty years of waiting, Rock Party, which is due out this upcoming June and already getting a warm reception from fans and critics alike. Featuring heavy groove tracks like “And I’m Doing …

The third full length release The Sun Left and Took the Moon With It from Portland’s Bees in a Bottle, comprising the duo of Christine and Chad McAllister, signals a turning point in an already promising run. The album’s eleven songs elevate their songwriting to higher levels than ever before as Christine …