Lisa Rucker in an indie artist with an interesting take on pop music. “In The Past” synth pop that sounds a little like the 90’s mixed with world music. That one is for a particular crowd, but who doesn’t love some coffee? That’s where “Coffee Break” comes in. It’s as relaxing as your morning cup, whether at home in your own kitchen or on the go at Starbucks. The jazz like elements make it go down nice and slow. After that relaxing a chill break, things pick up fiercely with “Good Bye Love.” It plays much like “In The Past,” that appears to be Lisa Rucker’s go-to move in the musical department. If you like music you can both chill out and dance to, check out Lisa Rucker. (https://www.goldladderrecords.org/listen)

Tammy Collins is a woman who knows her worth, but also knows the worth of Jesus Christ. She takes the gospel word and puts a R&B/pop twist on it in her music that’s sure put an extra push in any church service. In “Glory” she says that because of Jesus’ glory, she wants to share her story with the world. Collins obviously went through some pretty heavy stuff and then found solace in the lord, and this song is a clear thank you to the man up above. In “Brotha Man” she asks who he is, but then goes on about being born again. One can assume this is about having to leave behind the people in her past that are triggers for a life that she doesn’t want anymore. It’s more a monologue put to song, rather than a song. If you’re into music that reaches a higher power, check out Tammy Collins. (https://www.jango.com/music/TAMMYC?l=0)

Carlos G R lets his keys do all the talking when it comes to his music. Much like Dave Koz, Carlos G R puts his best foot forward without the use of lyrics. “Love Conquers All” is a soft piano driven song that had moments of hope dispersed throughout some heartfelt playing. You could imagine this song playing throughout the pivotal moments in a Nora Ephron movie. It captures the idea of love in song; the beauty and the sadness all rolled up into what can only be explained and the reality of what love it. Love is both good time and bad, it’s up and then it’s down, but no matter what, love does indeed conquer all. Whether it’s the love between a parent and their child, between friends or the emotional connection found between lovers. Carlos G R captures that wonderfully in his piano clad “Love Conquers All.” If you like instrumentation to tell the story, then check out Carlos G R. (https://www.jango.com/music/Carlos+G+R?l=0)

Peter Graigs has a dark side that he lets shine bright in music that’s almost theatrical. “When Silence Breaks” sounds like the score of a dramatic stage show. The build up leaves listeners wanting more and all the changes throughout leave the audience in engulfed in this madness. That’s not the case with “The Fall.” This one is more calm than “When Silence Breaks.” It is as rocking, but doesn’t have all the audible plot twists of the latter. At this point I didn’t think Peter ever put words in his music and just let the arrangements tell the story. That was until “Vision of Heaven” began and the man behind the music spoke – well sang. He sings well and only adds to the music. It almost sounds like something you’d hear in a Disney movie at an intense part of the plot. Oh there’s that drama we fell for at the start when “My Wicked World” starts up. It’s as frantic as “When Silence Breaks” and is a good anchor for Peter Graigs music. If you are a fan of rock music that has a bit of maturity in it, a hint of class that the theater brings…Then check out Peter Graigs’ rock-opera. (https://www.petergraigs.com/index.html)

Josh Keller and Rook Roberts make up InfoStruktur and set up camp in Round Lake Beach, IL. They make beats that go perfectly with the club atmosphere. Songs like “Toxic Champagne” encourages listeners to go, but don’t go too far or you’ll miss what else InfoStruktur has in store for you. “Trumpin’ Man Trap VIP” offers you just a preview of what to expect, but you get the idea after a minute and a half. “August Mix” sounds like the end of summer – it’s your last chance to go hard and hard you go. It’s like a game when asked to spot the difference between “Rubberbands N’ Bubble Gum” and “Rubber Bands N Paperclips.” Both are infectious and get your toes tapping. InfoStruktur gets a little dirty with “Grime,” in that it’s darker than the others you’d come across from them. If you’re into electronic music and like to move, check out InfoStruktur. (https://soundcloud.com/infostruktur)

Phil Circle is a singer/songwriter who spends his time touring and taking in the scenery in Wisconsin’s Chippewa Valley. Before that he was a still a singer/songwriter but spend most of his time playing in and around the heart of Chicago. No matter where he is though, as “No Closer To Home” states, whiskey is what grounds him and keeps him closer to his homestead. When you get to songs like “Infrared” you get less of a singer/songwriter feel and more an adult contemporary type of guy. With his guitar in hand though, “Born Into Money” showcases the heart of Phil’s voice. Oh wait, other than whiskey, Phil also loved his current homestead, so much so he put it to song in “Living in the Chippewa Valley.” It’s lively and if the city is looking for an anthem, shall we suggest this as a contender? Phil also shows off his storytelling ability in “Backing Down.” If you’re into artists who have tell their stories through song and make sure they give it all they got, check out Phil Circle. (https://www.philcirclemusic.com/)

Church Rocks Gospel is a label founded by Timothy Burch that does music for the Lord. If that wasn’t apparent by name, I don’t know how much more clear it could be. Oh yes, you could listen to Timothy’s music that touches on believing and the Lord answering prayers in “Yes To Your Will.” God continues to get praise in “He Did It For Us.” Things take a modern turn with “Three Rounds.” It’s less gospel and more R&B, as was “Freedom.” It was if you took Tyrese and put him in the Lord’s place of worship. The vocals could use a little tightening in areas, but overall you can hear Timothy of Church Rocks Gospel has a gift. Perhaps he shines brighter live? Perhaps, so check out the site for when you can catch him live. (https://www.churchrocksgospel.net/home)

Dr. Ellis D.j. comes straight to you from Eugene in the US. He creates sounds that can only be compared to a club scene mixes with an encounter with space. That being said, I’ll introduce you to “Bass For My Face” which sounds exactly like what was just written; a night out at the club that is interrupted by UFOs. This actually sounds cool if you’re a club kid looking for something new. That’s not all Dr. Ellis D.j. can do though, he can drop the bass with songs like “Feel It!” That sounds more like a command than anything else, so you better feel it. If you’re a Macklemore fan though, you’re in luck because Dr. Ellis D.j. has spent a great deal of time remixing some of his best tracks including “Hold Ya Head Up” and the inescapable “Thrift Shop” which Dr. Ellis D.j. has given a dubstep makeover. He even takes the time to redo a Lil Wayne joint, “I Got Em.” It’s not all remixes though as this music man gives you a triptastic ride with “Tribute to Leary” and a sound wave adventure with “Journey Through Time.” If you are into things like EDC, then you should keep an eye and ear out for Dr. Ellis D.j. (https://soundcloud.com/dr-ellis-d-j)