2013 - year - Indie Music Reviews

BulletBoys Reunite at Key Club in Hollywood, CA

Sat, 28 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

1980s powerhouses BulletBoys are reuniting for an explosive night of headbanging, earsplitting hard rock, treating fans to a one-night-only performance in celebration of their epic career. Featuring all four original members of the inaugural 1987 lineup, this landmark event will take place on December 30 at 6:30pm at the iconic Key Club in West Hollywood, California.

Marq Torien, Mick Sweda, Lonnie Vencent, and Jimmy D’anda are joining forces for the first time in over 10 years to thrill both past and present fans on the Sunset Strip in Southern California over the New Year’s Eve weekend. All of their smash hits will be in display; including popular singles such as “Smooth up in Ya,” “For the Love of Money,” “Hang on St. Christopher” and more. This exciting evening is also being filmed for a live DVD, documenting BulletBoys and everyone in attendance in all of their glam-metal glory.

Samie Bisaso Loves It All

Fri, 27 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Samie Bisaso loves love and also the Lord, and showcases that in his music well. When “Lost Without You” you kind of think it’s either Akon or a Maroon 5 song, and then the song really kicks in and you’re met with a voice that would never be heard coming from Akon or Adam Levine’s vocal chords. Samie Bisaso’s voice is more traditionally good. “Walk in Love” is a song about faith and a beautiful one at that. “The One for Me” is about that search for love and it finally coming to an end. This song would be perfect for a couple’s first dance at their wedding. It’s touching and sweet and would be good for cutting a rug to. “I Give My All” is another love song, but this one’s not a fit for the wedding party like that last one, but “This Is My Vow” is; an island wedding. The beat is more upbeat and fun; fitting for fun and love in the sun. Samie Bisaso’s music is a mix of beautiful love songs and tracks dedicated to the man upstairs. If you’re into either, check out Samie Bisaso. (https://www.samieproductions.com/music/)

Troy Anthony Sings Everything With Praise

Thu, 26 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Troy Anthony is an artist whose beliefs is there, but doesn’t stick to one genre and can showcase his skills singing just about anything. “Had a Bad Break” is a well sung AC song that keeps up a good pace and allows for the listener to really learn the words easily to be able to sing along to.“He’s Not Through” picks things up slightly with a mid-tempo R&B twist. Amy Davis jumps in on “Everything” and this one really could be the stand out for the overall package. It’s crazy when one person can sing any genre because so far we’ve had AC and R&B and with this one, it’s a bit Country. It’s got the hearty masculinity from Troy that will remind listeners of what Country music is built on. “For You Are Worthy” is a clear cut Christian song that talks about praise and could be found on any radio station that serves the Lord. Once again, another genre that Troy Anthony conquers with ease. If you’re into artists who can sing anything, but have a strong base in their faith – check out Troy Anthony. (https://soundcloud.com/troyanthony-schermer)

Rob Coulson and His AC Ways

Wed, 25 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Rob Coulson is an artist who’d definitely fall into the adult contemporary scene. “Revelation” is an upbeat song that has a hint of 80’s new wave to it that centers on a welcoming vocal performance that provides not only entertainment, but comfort. You can’t help but feel good when listening to this song. The music really provides you with the ability to move along at a steady pace and bob up and down whether you’re on the dance floor or just sitting in your living room. If you’re into music that can be found on AC radio, check out Rob Coulson’s “Revelation Now.” (https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/rob-coulson/id413990295)

Marjorie Whitley and Her Cup of Joe Sound

Tue, 24 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Marjorie Whitley pulls her influences from every decade, including the angst ridden days of Alanis’ “Jagged Little Pill” and mixes it with a coffee shop folk sound that results in what you’ll hear when you check her out. “Little Bird” has a Joni Mitchell essence to it; mature innocence wrapped up in sweet folk like vocals. “It’s Complicated” picks up the speed for things around Marjorie Whitley’s sound. It’s a pretty song that will make your toes tap. “As I Am” is on the same page as “Little Bird” in that it’s a more serious sounding song and doesn’t leave you room to move. It’s more about listening to the lyrics and diving into them head first. If you’re into singer songwriters who fall somewhere between AC pop and folk, check out Marjorie Whitley . (https://marjoriewhitley.com/)

Emily Gold Wraps You Up

Mon, 23 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Emily Gold’s “Wrap You Up In Dreams” album is like a teenager, happy at times but then gets dark fast. No matter what though, you’re intrigued by what will come out of every mood swing. As soon as “Santa Cruz” starts, you know you’re in for a treat with the whole album. The lyrics and music run together ceaselessly. “Running Back To You” has more of an indie feel to it in the way that it’s got a hint of folk tossed in here and there. For “In The Air” Emily really takes a chance. It’s at this point in the album that you hear a darker side of the singer. “Like Leaves” keeps that style going, while things wrap up nicely with the title track, “Wrap You Up In Dreams.” As a whole, “Wrap You Up In Dreams” is an album that stands strong on an indie base that’s held together by the glue of a storyteller and the heart of a rocker girl who dances to an alternative beat almost always. If you’re into artists like Meg Myers, check out Emily Gold’s “Wrap You Up In Dreams,” out now. (https://www.emilygoldmusic.com/)

The Gift Shares His Vocal Gifts

Sun, 22 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

The Gift brings to life heartfelt R&B to the masses. Almost everyone will fall for someone who’s in love with the wrong person; not you. That’s where “Where Is He Now” comes into play. This terrifically sung song asks the question everyone in that situation wonders. “Struggles” is led by the sound of ivory and is met with a hearty amount of soul. I thought “Fly” would be about being cool and “fly” but it’s not. Instead it’s this R&B track that slowly treks through an emotional story with more downs than ups. When listening to “The World,” here’s a warning – you will get lost in the beauty of it. It’s one of those songs that play so well, you don’t notice you’ve had it on repeat for a half hour. When it comes to The Gift, he’s got one; his voice. There’s no questioning his skills, so don’t ask but do listen. (https://www.reverbnation.com/thegift1234)

Gary Trobee Proves His Faith Is Strong

Sat, 21 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Gary Trobee is a man who puts his faith first and does it well. “Waited” is a wonderfully sung song that’s sincere to the core. Gary Trobee lets his faith shine in this aptly titled one called “Faithful One.” It’s all about the “One” that he’s been put his beliefs in all these years and all that he does for him; it’s much appreciated. That seems to be the same tale Gary sings about in “You Pursue Me” as well. I think it was Shakespeare who once said something along the lines of, how many ways do I love thee, let me count the ways. In this case Gary Trobee is singing how many ways he loves the Lord with all of the above and “My Jesus I Love Thee.” A lot of the songs are these slowed down testaments of faith, but the title track, “I Will Sing,” brings an upbeat energy to the record. If you love Christian music that’s done with the big guy upstairs in mind, check out Gary Trobee now. (https://www.trobee.com/)

Stephen Shareaux Is Golden

Fri, 20 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

Stephen Shareaux is a musician who works on his craft in the city of angels; Los Angeles. He just dropped his debut solo record, “Golden,” on November 5, 2013 so it’s ready for listening consumption. The album starts strong with “Between Us.” This alternative rock song relies on the guitars that drive it home. The rock takes a break as Shareaux eases into “Stay.” It’s a sentimental song that showcases the heart on the singer’s sleeve. In an ironic twist, “R & R” isn’t that relaxing because it’s a song that’ll get you moving a bit. The same goes for “Kamikaze” but that was to be expected. The folk element of Stephen Shareaux’s sound is clearest in “Dead Roses.” You can hear the storyteller side of this musician’s work loud and clear here. You can’t leave without hearing about the album’s title track “Golden” though. It could be a contender for a Vh1 Top 20 Countdown alongside of those top 40 artists. If you’re into rock that’s got a pinch of folk, but it is overall alternative sounding – check out Stephen Shareaux’s “Golden,” out now. (https://stephenshareaux.bandcamp.com/)

The Many Sides of JonRodgersExpression

Thu, 19 Dec 2013 00:00:00 +0000

JonRodgersExpression does it all both behind the scenes and in front of the mic. “Spain” sets a beautiful atmosphere thanks to the soul in the vocals, and then like a burst of lightning - BAM! The music and the vocals speed up. It’s all quite musical theater and turns into a true performance. “Stop Loving You” isn’t quite like that; it’s a more serious song. It’s that feeling when you’re in love and it won’t stop – no matter what. The love will always be there.“Been on This Road too Long” has more of a southern soul vibe to it. It’s one of those songs where you hear; you feel every word being sung. It’s the kind of music all ages can appreciate. With “Rosebud,” it’s more for the older folks who grew up in the 70’s. Lastly, “Frendz” flips everything you’ve come to know about JonRodgersExpression on it’s side. It’s upbeat and energetic to the point that you think it’s going to come on when you’re on the dance floor. If you’re into musicians who can change with the flip of a switch but remain skilled when doing so, check out JonRodgersExpression. (https://www.reverbnation.com/jonrodgersexpression)