Acrylics, Oils, and Mexican Soil: Mon Laferte and the Embrace of Culture
“I had a lot of time to be by myself, so I wrote a lot about that,” says acclaimed Chilean singer Mon Laferte. “You have time to go deeper when you’re all by yourself”.
Gary Schwind
Gary was born and raised in Toledo, OH, and fell in love with music while a student at Ohio State. He moved to southern California just weeks after graduating from OSU. He has written for a variety of publications including AXS and Glide Magazine. He lives with his wife, two sons, and three-legged cat in Orange County, CA. He enjoys playing his three-string cigar-box bass and creating things (like hot sauce) in the kitchen.
Sean Rowe Broadens His Sound on ‘The Darkness Dressed in Colored Lights’
The Darkness Dressed in Colored Lights shows a sonic expansion for Sean Rowe, whose previous albums leaned more toward a minimal folk sound. Nothing is minimal about this album.
The Record Company Expand Their Sound on ‘Play Loud’
Yes, the Record Company still incorporate some blues into their fuzzy rock, but on Play Loud, the sound is more expansive.
Alisa Amador Blends Folk, Jazz, and Soul on ‘Narratives’
Alisa Amador’s Narratives does what an EP is meant to do. It gives a taste of Amador’s sweet vocals and melodies, leaving the listener wanting more.
Tim Easton Is Introspective and Positive on ‘You Don’t Really Know Me’
Americana singer-songwriter, Tim Easton’s You Don’t Really Know Me is a pensive and reflective album, but it’s also peaceful and positive.
GA-20 Pay Solid Tribute to Hound Dog Taylor
GA-20 Does Hound Dog Taylor is a wonderful celebration of the music of Hound Dog Taylor with plenty of opportunities for the listener to boogie.
Karen Jonas Spices Your Summer Playlist with ‘Summer Songs’
With regular use of pedal steel, Karen Jonas’ songs are perfect for honky-tonks where it’s not unusual for people who have just met to become dance partners.
Son Volt Pose Big Societal Questions on ‘Electro Melodier’
Son Volt’s Electro Melodier gives you melodies that are perfect for dark, cramped clubs, while Jay Farrar provides thought-provoking lyrics.
The Wallflowers Remain True on ‘Exit Wounds’
The Wallflowers’ Exit Wounds isn’t radically different from the band’s other albums. Lyrics paint vivid pictures and the melodies are instantly familiar.
Flatland Cavalry Say ‘Welcome to Countryland’
Flatland Cavalry’s Welcome to Countryland is a showcase of country songwriting. They write songs that get you dancing and singing along with every word.
‘A Few Stars Apart’ Shows Lukas Nelson as a Musical Chameleon
Lukas Nelson’s A Few Stars Apart is further evidence that he’s a musical chameleon. One sound moves fluidly to another so you don’t know what’s coming next.
James’ ‘All the Colours of You’ Is Complex Pop
James’ All the Colours of You shows the band continuing with a more layered and experimental sound. Where you would file this in a record store?