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Album Review: The Breedings’ ‘Laughing At Luck’

By on December 15, 2011 in Album & Song Reviews

The BreedingsI have been meaning to write an album review for this project for a while now.  I held off because I was unsure if I would feature independent artists on this site or only signed/known artists like I started out with.  Well, I decided that I want this site to be inclusive of both and all genres because there is great music out there that can be discovered.  I don’t want to place any limits on myself or this site.

The Breedings are a brother and sister duo based out of Nashville, TN.

Originally hailing from Lexington, KY, the duo sings original material penned by singer/songwriter Willie Breeding, who released two solo albums while living in Brooklyn, NY and touring nationally.  Big sister Erin, who was living as an accountant in Boston and singing occasional back-up for her brother, stepped up to become the lead singer in 2008.  Brought together by their love of ‘70s country music, the pair emerged in 2011 with a surprisingly rock’n’roll album.

This 9 track, fully-produced album by The Breedings entitled ‘Laughing At Luck’ is a refreshing mix of classic rock and folk.  Just a cool vibe all the way through.  Think Fleetwood Mac meets Bob Dylan and you’ve got The Breedings in this project.

My favorites on the album are “When It All Comes Down” a slightly dark, melancholy, mid-tempo song about love , “I Know I Say” –another mid-tempo song about love lost, “Turn” was a powerful and touching ballad, and “Everything You Wanted” a mid-tempo, dark, and almost a dreamy feel to it–this one just flows and I liked it.  Great way to end the album.  The one song that I didn’t really enjoy was the title track of “Laughing At Luck”.  It was just a little too melancholy for me and I just didn’t like the arrangement.

Overall, I enjoyed this album.  I thought the production could’ve been a little better on it, but maybe that added a little to the charm of it.  It created this whole throwback vibe to the album for me where this might’ve been created in the 70s and printed on vinyl.  It’s a timeless creation that is cool and fresh with deep, thought-provoking lyrics.

Check them out at their website: www.thebreedingsmusic.com to find out more about them and you can find their music on iTunes!

Rated 4 out of 5 stars.


 

 

 

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Song Review: Dara MacLean’s “The Day That Love Was Born”

By on December 15, 2011 in The Latest

Another new Christmas song worth mentioning is Dara Maclean‘s “The Day That Love Was Born”.  Dara’s powerful, soulful voice, plus this beautiful, moving song make for a wonderful addition to anyone’s Christmas music collection!

You can buy it on iTunes and be sure to check out her site to find out more about Dara! While at it, please check out this interview I had a few months back with Dara: http://focusonthe615.com/2011/09/07/get-to-know-new-contemporary-christian-artist-dara-maclean/

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

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Song Review: Alyssa Bonagura’s “Come Back This Christmas”

By on December 15, 2011 in Album & Song Reviews

Alyssa BonaguraAlyssa Bonagura is one of the most talented independent artists that I have run across lately and I want to share just a little bit of her music with you.

She just released a new song for Christmas called “Come Back This Christmas”.  It is beautifully sung and very well-written.  A beautiful song to warm up your holidays!

You can preview and buy “Come Back This Christmas” on iTunes.

Be sure check out more of Alyssa’s music at her website: http://alyssabonagura.net/.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

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Album Review: Julie Ingram’s ‘Always Remember’

By on December 14, 2011 in Album & Song Reviews

Well, when I first got this cd in the mail the first thing that struck me was the cd cover, but not in a good way.  It put me in mind of one of those ads that you see late at night for singles lines or something along those lines since Julie Ingram‘s pictured in a nightie across the cover.  The pictures inside the cd case or even on the back are much better and would have been a better choice, in my opinion.  I’m a very visual person and it just was the first thing that came to mind when I saw the cd, so I didn’t really even want to listen to it since the word that came to mind was “cheesy”.  But, I decided to be open-minded and look past the cover to see what’s inside.  I might really enjoy the music.  You can’t judge a book by its cover, but the cover should always be taken very seriously because it’s the first impression and often the deciding factor whether to purchase or not.

I did enjoy “Big Dog In Dallas”.  It was a fun, uptempo song.  It wasn’t great, though, but better than the others on the album.  It was the only song that I enjoyed on this cd.

I’m going to be honest and really not intentionally trying to be mean, but I just did not care for this album at all.  The vocals were moderate to weak, the production was fair to pretty good, the songs weren’t radio-friendly, catchy or emotional, and overall seemed very dated to me.   I just didn’t like it at all and can not recommend it.  I think the clincher for me was the bonus track, which was 6 seconds of a dog barking.  Not a great way to end an album…

Sorry, Julie, this is nothing personal, I just have to be completely honest for the sake of our readers.  I do wish you the best of luck with your career, but I’m just not a fan of this particular release.  Maybe someone who has a little more appreciation for traditional country would enjoy the album a little more than me, but I just wasn’t feeling it.

Rated 1 out of 5 stars.

 

 

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Song Review: Marlee Scott “Someday At Christmas”

By on December 13, 2011 in The Latest

This is actually the first time I’ve heard this country artist, Marlee Scott, and her new Christmas single “Someday At Christmas” written by Bryan Wells and Ronald Miller.

I think she’s got a nice, strong voice and I liked the song overall because the music had a nice, flowing feel for me.  It is a well-produced track, also.  The only downside to this single were the lyrics for me.  The song began to grate on me as it progressed only because of the overuse of the word “someday“.   It started to feel like every other word was that because it was used so much throughout the song.  That was the only downside.  This song wasn’t outstanding for me, but it was nicely done overall.

Rated 3 out of 5 stars.

 

 

 

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Song Review: Stealing Angels’ “Little Blue Sky”

By on December 12, 2011 in The Latest

Stealing Angels — In one word, I don’t think I could describe them.  Not adequately! Country fans, this new trio is amazing and one of my very favorite new acts out there! If you don’t know them or aren’t listening to them, then you should GET to know them.  Why the heck aren’t you? Because you’re missing out! REALLY missing out! I’m telling you. Don’t hear them on the radio much because too much Taylor Swift is being played? Well, check out iTunes, their website at: www.stealingangels.com or just find them on Facebook! There is GREAT music out there to be found if you just look for it.  You will love them! They will make you laugh and you can’t help but love them if you meet them in-person or just watch their videos.  They are real and they’re what country music needs.  This is a group with pure, raw, natural talent oozing from them.  When they take the stage, you will be drawn into the enthusiasm, the energy….they just have IT!  How do you describe IT and where does IT come from? You either have IT or you don’t! Stealing Angels has IT in DROVES and if you know what’s good for you, you’ll start listening to them, too!

Stealing Angels are Caroline Cutbirth, Jennifer Wayne, and Tayla Lynn.

Their new single “Little Blue Sky” is at radio right now and you can find it on iTunes.  This mid-tempo song is hopeful, endearing, and grabs right at your heart.   The blending of their 3 voices is absolutely beautiful on this song, especially.  Well done, Stealing Angels!

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

 

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Album Review: TOY’s Self-Titled Debut Release

By on December 12, 2011 in Album & Song Reviews

Hands down across all genres, my absolute favorite album of the year is this debut release from newly-formed pop/rock band,  TOY.  It has literally NOT left my car cd player since I got it Monday night until now when I have to look at it to make sure that I’ve got everything right from it for this review.

Rarely does an album come along that grabs you and takes hold of you like this one! How do I begin to describe it and do it the justice that it deserves? If you take the best parts of Evanescence, Lady Gaga, and Florence & The Machine, then created something new and original from those musical influences, you would then have TOY.  At least, what I think best describes them! They are high energy, dance, rock, pop, electronic with a dark, edgy sound.

TOY is comprised of 4 members: Alana Grace (lead vocals, guitar, keys), Spencer Bastian (guitar, bass, vocals), Christian Meadows (lead guitar), and Ryan Folden (drums).   For more in-depth information on TOY, please see this article: http://focusonthe615.com/2011/12/10/a-closer-look-toy-episode-1-and-welcome-matt-williams-to-the-site/

All songs on the album are original and written by TOY.

Full Track List:

1) “Uh Oh”:  This one put me most in mind of Lady Gaga, but they aren’t trying to imitate.  Uptempo, dancy, edgy.

2) “Ghost”:  Dark, uptempo, and my favorite lyrically.  One of my favorites overall.  I can listen to this one over and over without tiring.

3) “Give It To Me”: Again, uptempo, high energy…another that I don’t tire of hearing.  Best listened to in the car where you can crank if WAY up and not disturb the neighbors!

4) “Music Box”:  Dark, melodic, and hard rock edginess at it’s best.

5) “Traffic Signs”:  This one starts with a lot of electronic adds and build-up to the actual song. Very dark and edgy.  Almost a tribal sound.  Enthralling–lyrically and musically.

6) “Flying High”:  My absolute favorite off this album! Uptempo, electronic, dance, rock…builds up to a frenzy.  Even better live! Watch the video of this below and listen to the crowd being built into a frenzy midway through as they scream with excitement.

7) “Night Hunters”:  This one makes me want to get up and dance.  Seriously, there’s not a weak one on the album.  Not one!

The only downside for me was I wanted MORE than 7 songs on this album.  It’s just that good! It left me wanting much more and I want to see them live again soon.  They are riveting, charismatic, high energy, and a breath of fresh air.  If you like pure and powerful vocals mixed with excellent musicianship, deep & thought-provoking writing, then TOY is for you! THIS is a band that is better experienced live.  The album is GREAT, the live show will blow you away! It is like a tidal wave of energy flowing over the room when they take the stage.  Your attention will be captured and held until they leave the stage, which you don’t want to happen.  This band is going places!

Anyway, my point is GET THE ALBUM! Request it from their site and if they come to a town near you, GO! You won’t be disappointed! Enough said.

For more information and to connect with TOY, please go to their website at: www.toymusicbox.com.  You can also find them on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/officialtoymusic

Rated 5 out of 5 stars.  An absolute must-have!

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Human Snow Globe at Jingle Ball in Nashville

By on December 11, 2011 in The Latest

Human Snow GlobeWell, I just think this needs to be shared! I loved it and thinking you might, too! I wasn’t quite prepared for this, but it brought a smile to my face and I hope it does yours! Fun and festive, people, fun and festive…and he could actually sing quite well! 🙂

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“Jingle Ball” Rocks — Written By Matt Williams

By on December 11, 2011 in The Latest

Jingle BallIt was a night of an eclectic mix of music and holiday fun at Mercy Lounge on Monday December 5. As the holiday leg of BMI’s “8 off 8th” series, 10 artists took to the “Jingle Ball” stage to showcase awesome talent and spread live and loud holiday cheer.

The crowd size varied throughout the night, but was wildly excited the entire time. Each artist only played for 15 minutes, which meant frequent breaks… not entirely ideal for a showcase; however, the incredible talent easily overshadowed the intermittent waiting periods.

First on the bill was Devious Angels, an acoustic duo composed of “Steevie” Steeves and Jon Decious. Their self-proclaimed “homegrown sentiment meets dive bar attitude” showed through as their country sound and rock edge drew the crowd towards the stage.

Next on stage was Yellowire, a band that came all the way from England. After a great up-tempo start, front man Ol Beach switched from guitar to piano for a couple mid-tempo electro acoustic anthems with a sound fit for festivals.

Following the British rockers were the “Road to Bonnaroo” winners, Uncle Skeleton. The ensemble had no less than 10 people on stage, including three violins front and center, a horn section, a couple keyboards and guitars. The first couple songs had no words, just a mass collection of groovy sound. The band ended with a jamming cover of Wonderful Christmas Time.

No one could quite prepare for what came next: YouTube sensation Human Snow Globe. Yes, the name speaks for itself, it was a man in an inflatable bubble (accompanied by far too many “inflation” jokes) with fake snow and Christmas lights. Nothing more needs to be said, you can check it out here.

Changing pace again, rapper Chancellor Warhol took the stage. With turntables, a drum kit and a couple backup singers, Warhol brought the house down, frequently jumping down in front of the stage and up on the speakers. His smooth flow, clever punch lines and catchy hooks definitely made this kid something to watch.

Nashville natives Colorfeels provided an instrumentally and vocally riveting performance next. Several members of the band were multi-instrumentalists, and one included such diversity as a clarinet, a flute and a xylophone. Their slower numbers were pleasant and whimsically musical while their upbeat songs had the crowd on its feet with an inventive plethora of sound.

One of the most-talked-about acts of the day was The Kicks. Mixing classic, old school rock style with modern rock sensibilities and three-piece harmonies, these guys were superb. Think Rolling Stones meets Boston with an alternative twist. Three songs didn’t seem to do them justice, though keeping the spirit alive, they finished with a Christmas original.

Maybe it was because The Kicks blew everyone away, or maybe it was because the upcoming front man was slightly bizarre and mildly off-color, but Brandon Jazz and His Armed Forces did not resonate as a stand out act of the evening. However, the talent on stage was obvious, and the performance was high energy with smoke, lights, and a slew of people dancing down front. One song was an electronic/rock/rap hybrid, containing a synthesizer sample of Paul Simon’s Bodyguard.

The second to last band of the evening was Focus on the 615 friends TOY. Their dark, electronic rock sound with lead vocals by Alana Grace was nothing short of kick-ass. Instead of writing more about them here, check back for a more in-depth look at TOY featuring an exclusive interview from the evening!

Closing the evening (at whatever hour it may have been) was merging stars The Co. An incredible piano track mixed with powerful vocals to make memorable tunes that will no doubt land this Nashville band on the airwaves. With upbeat tunes such as Keep It Together and more personal numbers such as How to Say Goodbye, The CO was a great way to end the night.

“8 off 8th,” is BMI’s free weekly showcase held every Monday night at Mercy Lounge. Hosted by a rotating lineup of music community impresarios, each night features several local (and sometimes nationally touring) artists and serves as ground zero for Nashville’s bourgeoning indie rock scene.

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Album Review: Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, & Family — ‘A Skaggs Family Christmas: Volume 2’

By on December 11, 2011 in Album & Song Reviews

A Skaggs Family ChristmasWell, I guess you can tell that I have a broad love of music, huh? I think if you are a TRUE music lover, like I would consider myself, then you have an appreciation for all different styles.  Sharing this love for all kinds of music is what I’m setting out to do right here on Focus on the 615–a site devoted to truly great music and entertainment coming out of Nashville aka the 615!

This new Christmas album from Ricky Skaggs, The Whites, & Family entitled ‘A Skaggs Family Christmas: Volume 2’  would be a poignant and beautiful addition to anyone’s holiday collection.  Have I mentioned that my favorite instrument is the mandolin and who plays that instrument better than Ricky Skaggs himself?

The album starts with a fun, playful bluegrass tune “Christmas Time’s A Coming”.  I have to admit my foot was a-tapping (yes, I said it!) and there was a time that I would’ve complained it was a little too twangy for my taste, but I loved it! It puts me right in mind of being at the Grand Ole Opry when the cloggers come on stage–always my favorite part at the Opry! Followed by “Light Of The Stable”, a beautiful, light and airy tribute of praise to the reason for the season.  (Let’s not forget what Christmas is all about and it DOES bother me that it seems that more & more the word “Christmas” is taken out and replaced by “holidays” as to not offend people.  Ummm…no.  For me, it will always be Christmas, that’s how I was raised, and I will always remember why I celebrate this holiday.  So, wish me a “merry Christmas”, please, or you’ll offend me! :))

Then, there’s the Christmas classic “The First Noel” — a beautiful, a cappella version recorded live that gave me chills.  “What Songs Were Sung” is a hauntingly-poignant, piano-driven ballad.  I, also, thoroughly enjoyed the instrumental version of “Flight To Egypt”.  Such musicianship! I was reminded of some other masterfully-skilled musicians listening to this–Bering Strait.  If you haven’t heard of them, they are the classically-trained country group out of Russia that hit the music scene a few years back.  Sadly, they never really took off despite being nominated for a Grammy for their instrumental song.  I wasn’t that crazy about “Reunion Song”.  I guess by this point, I just didn’t want to hear more religious songs.  A little goes a long way with me.  “Children Go” was definitely a tune that would appeal to your Bluegrass-traditionalist.  It started to get a little too twangy for me at this point, though.  Just being honest.   I can only take so much twang! haha  Not a knock against this album or Ricky Skaggs and The Whites, that’s just me! I respect them for the mastery of their craft.  I’m just not a full convert to bluegrass, but I do appreciate it and good music.  Next on the album was “Joy To The World”, which I believe had to have been done with a symphony because of the big sound created with all the extra strings added that ONLY a full symphony accompaniment would provide.  It was beautiful, instrumental only, and a holiday classic that I would not expect to find on a Christmas album by bluegrass artists.  The final song on the album is “Oh Come, Oh come, Emmanuel”, which as a melancholy ballad that was a beautiful ending to the album.

If you want a well-crafted album with wonderful musicianship, then look no further than this album filled with beautiful music to make your holidays just that much sweeter to your ears! This is an album filled with traditional bluegrass and Christmas classics done in a classical style that will sooth the mind & touch the heart.

Rated 4 stars out of 5.

 

 

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