The recently released holiday single, "My Favorite Time of the Year," by the fantastic group, Dennis Angel Band, mingles smooth Jazz with a wonderful holiday spirit. This original song impresses with sensational vocals that swirl around the excellent instrumentation. The sax has a nice strong tone as it plays through the solo while the other instruments charm with sweet tonality. The spirited lyrics describe everything that is wonderful about the holiday season with a nice vibrant and energetic feel. One will get an uplifted feel when hearing this terrific song. If you are looking for a new holiday song with a smooth Jazz feel, then the song, "My Favorite Time of the Year," is just what you need to hear.
Spaccacuore by Alessandro Bottura Alessandro Bottura is back with a brand new release after enjoying great success with his debut album, Morning Grooves, which was released in March 2009 to rave reviews by both critics and fans. Bottura’s latest track, “Spaccacuore” is a medium tempo groove that speaks of unrequited love and the pain that accompanies it. The constant “wah wah” on the guitar pedaling into a syncopated piano figure is a good backdrop for Bottura’s vocals which have a great smoky (and I might also add “sexy”) sound. In fact, this particular vocal performance reminds me of Phil Collins. Bottura, a multi-talented multi-instrumentalist (piano, guitar, drums and bass) does a great job with this song, originally recorded by Samuele Bersani in 2004, and then again in 2009 by Laura Pausani, who took it to new heights. The four piece rhythm section features a nice electric bass solo on the breakdown between verses. Morning Grooves both introduced Bottura and solidified him as a bonifide rock/pop/jazz musician with talent to stand the test of time – not an easy feat in the music industry. Bottura has been compared to Jaco Pastorius, an American jazz musician and composer who was widely known for his skills as an electric bass guitarist, and his performance on “Spaccacuore” only reinforces that parallel. The tune is solid, enjoyable though melancholy, and while it may be classified as adult contemporary rock, it is infused with a hint of jazz flavor for spice. “Spaccacuore” builds to a layered background with vocal harmonies and power fuzz guitar chords before fading to a nice finish. - Michele Wilson-Morris, MusicDish
New Review by MovimentiProg Magazine Brand new “Morning Grooves” review appeared on italian magazine “MovimentiProg”
Enjoy it and stay tuned for more!
“Mind, Passion And Instinct: the triptych “Mind, Passion and Instinct”- the title of one of the songs that make up this disc – seems to be the compass that guides the work of Alessandro Bottura. The little genius of progressive fusion and funky colors, the young musician from Modena is more than a bassist: composer and instrumentalist, has created this intriguing debut album “Morning Grooves” in complete solitude. After having the experience in groups such as NoLogo and Landslide Ladies, Bottura studied in the USA with Jeff Berlin and returned back to Italy where he received more endorsements. The meeting with the manager Mark A. Forrest back in the States and through Las Vegas they have launched their project to the world. The hard fact is that they are enjoying wide international radio shows and good music reviews. The secret? The balance between the different components: the technical element is subordinate to the objectives clearly defined, the emotional balance of virtuosity, funk soul and warms the typical jazz-fusion solutions, often diverted into reggae and rock shores. ”Out of sight,” the piece quoted at the beginning, the overwhelming “MayDay Mayhem” and “Tropical Night” mixing different influences (from jazz-rock as “flesh” of the ’70s nu-jazz to contemporary, from Weather Report ‘s Jaco goes to Medeski Martin & Wood), the calypso of “Quetzalcoatl” is buzzing as the eclectic funk “Stern Memories” from the vague references to Hendrix. A fine debut album from a valuable Italian musician, who awaits a second trial, perhaps with a group that can enhance even more its project.”
What happens when you interweave smooth Jazz and Hip Hop? If you're not sure, then take a listen to the fabulous song, "From Bebop To Hip Hop-Single" by the Dennis Angel Band. This fresh and unique approach of two extremely different genres will appeal to both audiences of Jazz and Hip Hop. Listen to the lyrics as they are not only whimsical but have a charming feeling to them. The vocals are strong and articulate as they easily rap like a free flowing rhymer. Adding to the vocals are the well blended instruments that groove to the smooth Jazz vibe this song spins out. If you are into Jazz and also like Hip Hop, then take a listen to "From Bebop To Hip Hop-Single" as the Dennis Angel Band really knows how to mix things up and you will definitely want to hear more from this group.
The highly talented vocalist, Scot Albertson, releases another superb CD, "Vibination." Albertson and his vocal prowess prove to be magnetic as he gracefully sings with stylish expression throughout this entire album. The astounding vocal intensity on, "Incurably Romantic," is overflowing with heartfelt emotions as Albertson easily sings this song with sheer elegance. Another song, "Miss Manhattan Won't You Marry Me," is extremely soulful as it is set to an enticing blend of Bluesy piano and soft drums. Also included on this album are some great classic standards, "Put On A Happy Face," "Love Story," and "Three Coins In The Fountain/I Have Dreamed (a medley)." You will appreciate the eloquent voice of Albertson as he adds his own shimmering panache to these irresistible songs. Discover the musical talents of Scot Albertson as he will croon his way into your heart will his latest album, "Vibination."
Talented musician, Chuck Eaton, and his excellent album, "Lights," will engage the listener with his collection of delightful Contemporary songs. Eaton, who not only wrote these wonderful songs, shows just how talented he is by also performing all instrumentation throughout the CD. Feel the melodic grooves on, "Drenched With Rain," as the rhythm moves with a striding beat while the laid back vocals complements the charming lyrics. The title track, "Lights," will impress you with its tender vocals and are also splashed with sweet harmonies. The ballad, "What Can We Take From A Great Love," proves to be insightful as the reflective lyrics are accompanied by sweet guitar chords and a nice, well balanced synth horn riff. If you like to sit back and relax to easy listening music, then you will surely enjoy the beautiful compositions on the Contemporary album, "Lights."
Discover the exquisite Classical/Chamber compositions on the superb album, "Vocalise - Instrumental and Vocal Music of Brian J. Nelson." As an inspired composer, Nelson has established reflective spiritual meditations throughout his CD with well produced vocals and instruments. The album starts with the song, "Vocalise for Solo Cello, Op. 1 (feat. Matthew Herren)," as one can sense the tender and heartfelt emotions that ring forth from the poignant cello as it plays a stirring melody. The choral composition, "Three Motets, Op. 7, No. I: Tears (feat. Melanie Melcher Cuthbertson, Amy Waldron, Paula Brekken, Leah Jenkins, Jay Van Blaricum, Jason Parr, Brady Shepherd, Benjamin Winters)," presents angelic voices that sing with divine tonality. The soothing piano caresses the emotive violin on, "Ballade for Violin and Piano, Op. 15 (feat. Ellen Bottorff, Tami Lee Hughes)," as this insightful song absorbs you into a calm and reserving mood. Let the beautiful works on the sweet and delicate album, "Vocalise - Instrumental and Vocal Music of Brian J. Nelson," relax your mind and body while soothing your soul.
The fabulous singer, Annie Kozuch, will delight you with her debut album, "Here With You," comprised of exquisite Jazz/Bossa Nova songs. Right from the first track Kozuch voice is heard with a smooth and silky style and a vibrant energy that shimmers throughout this entire CD. Her vocal talents also include singing not only in English but in Spanish and Portuguese as well. The outstanding musicians that lend their talents to this CD are tight and solid as they complement Kozuch stunning vocals. The jazzy feel on the song, "I Love Being Here With You," is first rate as the piano, bass, and drums cascade around the charming vocals. Another song, "Corcovado-Quiet Nights," is Bossa Nova at its best as the rhythmic beat dances to the melodic lyrics. The vibrant and fun song, "You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me," has tight beats, entertaining lyrics, and vocals to match this upbeat song. The wonderful album, "Here With You," will surely please your palette for smooth Jazz/Bossa Nova music.
The CD, "No Questions Just Imagine," composed and performed by Zach Rusk, is an album of stunning easy listening classical piano instrumentals. Rusk is an incredible pianist as he takes his audience to a place where one can relax to the soothing tranquility of his music. Each of his songs is filled with heartfelt emotions as you will hear throughout this entire album. The thought provoking song, "First Time," is crisp and clean as Rusk plays with a graceful and melodic style. "Your Waterfall" is dreamy and delicate as the melody sweeps you away to a place of sweet serenity. "Always Remember" is a song that has a strong and sincere ambiance and you can feel the emotions pouring out from Rusk as he plays with intense precision. "No Questions Just Imagine," is a delightful album of beautiful piano instrumentals and one you will thoroughly enjoy.
The fabulous album, "Me Esta Gustando / I'm Liking It," by the outstanding group Fiesta Orchestra, is sheer Salsa entertainment. This album is overflowing with superb songs of vibrant and energetic beats and lyrics sung in both Spanish and English. Right from the first track, "Siempre AsÃ" you will feel the hue of energy from the bright and brilliant horn riffs, percussive drums, and strong and solid vocals. The rendition of the classic standard, "Breaking Up Is Hard To Do," is spectacular as the syncopated rhythm gives a pulsating beat to the splendid vocals. The song, "Street Life (vocal version)," is sharp flowing with the intense precision of the instruments as they swirl around the melodic vocals. If you're a fan of Salsa music, then you won't want to miss the chance to listen to the excellent and well performed songs on the CD, "Me Esta Gustando / I'm Liking It."
When musicians go it alone and depart on a solo project, it usually means that they've been doing theircurrent thing for quite a while and have garnered a ton of recognition, maybe a handful of hit songs on the radio, and they just want to do something new and different. In Zach Jones' case, he has been part of a successful indie band, As Fast As, that never rocketed to the top of the charts, but maybe should have. So, for his solo project he wanted to showcase his own power pop abilities and managed to do a bang up job. Elements of Weezer and Fountains Of Wayne can be heard throughout the entire album, with Zach adding his own twist and flavor to the traditional power pop sound. "3,000 Miles" and "Round & Round" are two songs that are sure to help Zach break out of the unknown sector and become a force of the independent power pop genre. Zach Jones has proven that he can go it alone and be the frontman and rock just as hard as when he's with his bandmates in As Fast As.
Come and get a huge taste of delicious Electronic/Down tempo music on the newest released album, "Praying Mantis-Plus" by the talented duo The Opus. The creative talents on this album are flourishing as each song is beaming with originality and modernistic style. Feel the soulful beats on, "Eons," as it complements the stirring rush of the melodic melody. The title track, ""Praying Mantis," lets one's imagination run wild as the percussive beats swirl around the finely textured instruments. Although most songs on this CD are instrumentals, a few offer some extremely talented vocals such as "Save Me. (feat. Lord360 & Renea Taylor)" one can hear the vocals easily glide across the crafty, free flowing word play. If you like songs that are new and innovating with an Electronic spin, then you will surely enjoy the enticing collection of songs on the CD, "Praying Mantis-Plus."
Put on your dancing shoes because the newest album by TITO PUENTE JR Y SU ORQUESTRA titled "GOT MAMBO?" will have you moving in no time to the vibrant beats. This album is brimming with vitality as Puente pulls all the right stops with his delectable tunes of Mambo style. The music is magnetic as each song has pulsating energy that will dazzle you with its bright instrumentation and amazing vocals. The energy on, "AGUA LIMPIA TODO," is overflowing as the vivacious horn section complements the charismatic vocals. Let the syncopated beats take you away on, "JR'S MAMBO," as the instruments are well balanced and richly textured. The song, "BRISA AZUL," is a jazzy number that shimmers with layers of horns and percussion. If you're a fan of big band music with Latin flair, then "GOT MAMBO?" is a must have addition to your collection of music.
The latest album by Bonny Ferrer is, "De Dentro Hacia Fuera," and is an enticing blend of Latin/Soul music. The talented singer Ferrer takes her Spanish and African roots and crafts memorable arrangements that are appealing and melodic. The song, "AgonÃa," demonstrates just how gifted Ferrer is as her voice is sweet and flows with elegant style and grace. If you're looking to hear something that is uplifting, warm, and inviting then the song, "Daily Prayer," is just what you need as the lyrics are thought provoking and sincere. Take a plunge into the vibrant syncopated beats of, "Estrella de Mar," as this song incorporates a bright horn section that swirls around Ferrer's charming and sophisticated vocals. The entertaining album, "De Dentro Hacia Fuera," is brimming with light and airy Latin/Soul music and is an album you will surely enjoy.
PASTE_The talented ensemble, 4 x 7, and their newest album, "Esencia," is comprised of beautiful Contemporary Christian/Spiritual music. This group impresses with their splendid vocals surrounded by a wonderful blend of instruments. The lyrics, which are sung in Spanish, are extremely melodic and are truly inspirational. The very first track, "No Se Que Fue" is sweet and soulful with tender female vocals that are accompanied by a soft and warm piano. Wonderful harmonies are heard on, "BC-AD" that has a funky style and a lively rhythm. The lovely piano driven ballad, "Adorandote," is another song that is splendid with a strong and warm male vocal. "Esencia," is an excellent album offering memorable music with charming melodies of the spiritual faith and will surely be enjoyed by listeners who like Christian songs.
Gather around and take a listen to singer/songwriter Hugh Doolan and his latest Folk/Rock CD, "Slopey." Doolan takes his well crafted songs and turns them into warm and inviting pieces with his cast of talented musicians. His voice is soulful and embeds a sense of heartfelt sincerity. Sit back and relax to the free and easy flowing song, "Heartlands," that also feature some well balanced harmonies. "Cupidz Tune" is a catchy song with strong and solid guitar riffs and a charming melody. You'll like the lively and bouncy beat of, "See Africa," with lyrics that are melodic and fun. If you're into Folk/Rock music, then take a listen to "Slopey" as you will really enjoy this wonderful album.
Jazz bassist, Don Kirby, releases his first solo album, "Avant Gospel," that is comprised of beautiful Gospel music. Kirby lays the foundation of this Avant-Garde album with his solid expertise on the upright bass and heartfelt vocals. Feel the spiritual accent on, "This Is What I Need," as the lyrics are straight from the heart. "Who Cares" is a lively little tune with a nice percussive balance. "Bluer Than July Sky" is a strong embodied song that is centered on deep and sincere religious emotions. If you like Gospel music that is captivating and splashed with Jazzy tones in an Avant Garde style, then take a listen to the wonderful melodies on, "Avant Garde."
Talented artist Mike Mineo and his recent Avant-Garde/Pop album, "Eccentricity," hit the music scene with a powerful punch. His latest CD is a diversity of musical genres overflowing with witty arrangements and catchy melodies. Mineo's vocals project a strong and solid tonality with a Bluesy quality as you will hear on the song, "Believe." The funky guitar hooks on, "Work" complement the laid back vocals with charming soulfulness. "Waiting" highlights Mineo's excellent vocal range as he sings the lyrics energetic expression while the instruments splash around his voice. If you're looking for something that's in the style of Pop but a little different, then "Eccentricity," is just the album you need to hear.
"Art of Contrabass Guitar," by Snow Owl is a magnetic collection of stunning Jazz numbers. The man behind this splendid album is Juan Garcia-Herreros, a.k.a. Snow Owl, who gives the art of playing the 6 stringed Contrabass bass guitar a new and fresh approach. The opener, "A Step Towards Vision," will sweep you off your feet when you listen to the dexterity of Herreros as he plays with creative style and grace. "Bulket" is an enticing blend of piano, horns, drums, and guitar that meld with tantalizing musical textures. The electrifying percussion on, "Blues For Krampus," adds punch to the mix while the horns are sharp flowing and tight. The endlessly enjoyable Jazz album, "Art of Contrabass Guitar," is composed of finely crafted instrumental songs that are sheer entertaining.
The free flowing compositions on, "To Begin To Destroy," by David James is an engaging album infused with delectable Pop/Rock music. James has taken his collection of songs and gives them life with the incorporation of sound textures that are not only appealing but present a nice, mellow tonality. The song, "Estimating Your Time" displays an excellent balance between the solid vocals and sharp flowing instruments. The creative lyrics relating to the game of chess on "Checkmate" makes this song melodic and quite interesting. Take note of the percussive drums on "Top of the Heap" as it enhances the energy this song has to offer. Fans of Jethro Tull or Pink Floyd will thoroughly enjoy the artistic Pop/Rock arrangements on "To Begin To Destroy."
Mark Donato releases a great self titled CD, "Mark Donato" filled with excellent songs of Pop music that will delight your listening pleasure. Donato, who is no stranger to the music scene, takes his talented experience and spins terrific songs of easy listening grooves with a voice that is straight from the heart. Kicking off the album, "Everything I Thought I knew," offers a smooth flowing tempo with Donato's voice projecting tender and sincere emotions. The subtle guitar riffs and solid drum beats on, "A Recurring Woman," adds to the interesting lyrics Donato so strongly sings about. Another highlight is the song, "This Is Where I Live," with an upbeat and catchy tempo you might find yourself tapping your feet to the lively beat. If you like easy listening Pop music with a fun groove then take a listen to the self titled CD, "Mark Donato."
The artistic artist, Clint Crisher, gives an electrifying performance on his Electronic /Dance CD, "TraXXX 123 RemiXed." These music compositions have elements of alluring beats and feature charismatic and suggestive vocals. There's a strong sensual content to the lyrics which makes this album an enticing blend of sultry melodies wrapped around vibrant sounds. The hypnotic vocals on, "Get Nasty- HERSH Club Mix," cascades around the smooth and easy flowing beat. Get your funky groove on as you take a spin with, "Doctor Grip- Moog Lee France Mix." The industrial electronic pulses on, "The Hot Boys World-Peter T After Hours Dub," brings out the energetic and vibrant tones that will put you in a danceable mood. The album, "TraXXX 123 RemiXed" is a thoroughly enjoyable collection of Electronic /Dance music.
NEVERNOTHING RECORDS, LLC is proud to announce the new album release of Mike Mineo's "Eccentricity". Produced by Brent Williams. Brent has engineered for such artists as (Cat Power, Burning Spear, The Temptations).
Mike Mineo's music is best described as Avant-Garde Pop Music. It is a familiar approach to an old sentiment. Brent WIlliams producer of Eccentricity and manager of the label NeverNothing Records, LLC which he started explicitly for Mineo after being told by a major label that Mike Mineo would be too much competition for one of their own top billing artists. Williams is in deep with the artist he's fostered since they met a few years ago during an open-mic night at Koffeeoke, a coffee shop in Delray Beach. "I was drawn to his raw talent. I felt the same thing that a lot of people feel when they see him, like 'What the fuck are you doing here?' "
Williams rents a five-bedroom house in Delray Beach, and two bedrooms are set aside for his studio. Mineo also sleeps in one of the rooms, an arrangement that has afforded them the opportunity to take their time.
"We got to work on each song over the last year and a half," Williams says. "We just let things grow and took our time so that we could do it exactly the way that we wanted to."
Their process certainly was meticulous. Three songs feature string arrangements written by cellist Oksana Pankiv. "Doing the string quartet on the album took a few months," Williams says. "We went to Stetson University in Deland to record strings. We had free rein of the place. They had a piano and a harpsichord, and Mike jumped on the harpsichord and played it like he'd been playing it his entire life."
"The track 'Eccentricity' wasn't working for us either," Williams adds. "We decided that we needed a pedal steel guitar. I had to farm it out to a guy in Iowa, but that sound brings it all together."
"Eccentricity," the title track, addresses people who rub Mineo the wrong way with the sort of eccentric antics that he can't buy into. It also poses a question about its subjects that people might wonder about him as well: "Is this deep or just eccentric?"
The track also references Shakespeare's character Hamlet, one of the most impenetrable madmen in Western literature. As is the case with Hamlet, it's uncertain how much of Mineo's curious behavior is evidence of keen perception and how much is just plain oddness. His recordings, for the most part, are less peculiar than his person. But for occasional maniacal laughter on a few songs, the album mostly presents profound awareness and a positive message.
"Ain't no problems right here, my dear," is howEccentricity's big, brassy opening track, "Believe," begins lyrically. Mineo goes on to encourage people to worry less about their problems and "just believe." "Where Did You Go?" plods along like a playful elephant, with Bill Muter's tuba setting a New Orleans-style tone. Instead of whining about a departed lover, the song confronts her with an appeal to be reasonable: "Where did you go?/Why won't you just acknowledge one thing that I did/Before you go and blow it all up in your head?"
Eccentricity's tracks cover a range of genres: jazzy lounge song "Lucky Coin," the soulful "Easy Livin'," country-influenced "Eccentricity," the Broadway-caliber drama in "Old Shoes," and the folk-flavored polka of "Movin' to France."
The album has 18 hit worthy tracks and is a steal for $9.99. So don't hesitate to buy this album. Mr. Mineo is about to show the world what he is made of!!!
Aoeria and their album "Waterwheel" spin a collection of heavy, gritty, yet straightforward collection of Alternative Rock songs. The opener, "Apocrypha" begins with an exotic explosion of drums and guitars before mellowing down to follow a steady bass line with strong and solid vocals. "Wonder" is more of a relaxed song, at least at first, as it focuses on guitar riffs and reflective vocals before sonic excitement takes over. In "Imminent" we find enlivened drums and guitars keeping up a quick pace in a real rocker of a song. This album is one that harks back to the days when Alternative music was filled with fervent guitars and powerful drumming, while still having its own completely unique feel to it. Fans of Smashing Pumpkins material and similar music should check out Aoeria's "Waterwheel."
The revitalizing album, "Hammer Meets Fire," by Victor Bravo is pure energy and Rock/Punk attitude. This album serves up songs that are steeped with power chords and hypnotic melodies as the vocals dish out a bevy of gruff and tough attitude. Kicking off the CD, "Jagged Cross," hits you with vocals that are seething with attitude while a rush of guitar riffs reels you in. Another song, "The Door," is a charge of energetic beats as the vocals sings up a storm. The strong and tight power chords on "Spin Cycle" thrust you into a body rocking punk groove as it runs to a fast and furious tempo. Fans of Rock/Punk music will really enjoy the energy and edgy attitude of "Hammer Meets Fire," as it is filled with non stop music mayhem.
The talented group, Masha Stepina Trio, and their terrific new album, "The Place We're Longing For," embrace the listener with mellow and mellifluous jazz pieces played on the piano, bass, and drums. "January" is a number in which the piano seems to affably dance in the air as the drums almost imperceptible hold a soft beat. "Belltower" is maybe the most energetic number as the piano frolics quickly along with a spirited rhythm section. For "Thin Tree" we find a very reserved and introspective song featuring the piano playing with an emotive voice of style and grace. This album is one that leans towards easy-listening, but is also an album for fans of diversified jazz piano music. If highly talented & contemplative jazz is something you appreciate, then "The Place We're Longing For" is an album that would be a great addition to your Jazz collection.
The Hitman Blues Band spins out another fantastic album, "Pale Rider," that offers generous helpings of mostly original Blues/Rock compilations. The lead vocal impresses the listener with rootsy and melodic tonality while the instruments drive home a rush of rocking energy. You'll be hooked right from the first song, "Your Blues" with the dynamic beats and catchy lyrics. Another song, "Red Hook" runs full throttle as the guitar runs with maximum fury on the solo. Offering up a different sound, "Miss Catherine," shows off some nice horn hooks that interplays with the vocal and is a treasure of a song that displays a lively bouncy beat. The title track, "Pale Rider," is splashed with nice Hammond organ chords that compliment the razor sharp guitar lead. If you're a fan of Johnny Winter or just like some great Rocking Blues, then "Pale Rider," is just the album you'll want to hear.
