whitney's album review portfolio

8/2/2019 Whitney's Album Review Portfolio

1/21

Annie Crane - "Jump With a

Child's Heart" (2011) [Album

y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With It

rtist: Annie Crane

bel: Constant Clip Records

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: AnnieCraneMusic.com

nnie Crane on Twitter Annie Crane on Facebook Annie Crane

n MySpace

enre(s): Americana, Ballad, Blues, Folk, Indie music, Pop music, Singer-Songwriter

assically trained New York Folk artist Annie Crane has released her sophomore album Jump With A C

eart; an album blending Americana and Celtic sounds into tracks that explore what it means to come ty with a dream and do what it takes to make it come true.

anes songs often weave together classic 60s Folk, Indie Pop and Rock and traditional Irish music into

ten compared to artists like Sandy Denny and Joni Mitchell.

he rst track on the album is the title track "Jump With A Childs Heart". This song opens with a classic

wang as Crane speaks to the dreamers. It encourages individuals to follow their dreams and work hard

thout complaining to dene a future they desire. The song is full of mellow guitar ris and vocal hum

Crane preaches to her listeners about the value of putting time and eort into whatever you do.

ells Gate" is a laid back song that tells the story of a creature who came up from Hells gate. This song

nding twangs, an upbeat tambourine and was written for a benet compilation after the BP oil spill.

bout a Biblical creature called Leviathan who guards Hells gate and attacks ships at sea. Crane sings,

as born down deep / from a watery sleep she deed her father with greed / and she stretched out

mbs / and in one big gulp she engulfed it all.

he album ends with a song called Lookin Out. This song has an upbeat vibe which display's Cranes voice as

d condent while the guitar steadily strums in the background. "Lookin' Out" describes a woman returning h

e her grandmother lookin out like the old days. Crane sings In my reoccurring dream / cobblestone roadwae to my Grandma dear / made my turn at the old oak tree into the front door to my, to mGrandma dear / and a

e Oriental rug into the kitchen / water on /to my, to mGrandma dear / back to the screened, screened in porch

oon sun / we sat there lookin, lookin out. This song reminds listeners that no matter how far you move away f

ome to pursue your dreams, the memory is still alive.

Album

Review


2/21

ynda Arnold and

Daniel Berkman -

Hammer Inven-

ions" (2011)Album Review]

nre(s): Chillout, Classical, Electro, Electronica, Lounge music, Orchestral, Singer-Songwriter, Trance

mposers and pianist extraordinaires Lynda Arnold and Daniel Berkman have released their debut album Ham

ventions; an 18 track album layered with electronic sounds and original instrument compositions. The album

en considered enchanting with captivating piano excerpts from a variety of dierent pianos and engaging as

nold and Berkman introduce their audience to new sounds.

mmer Inventions opens with an intro called "Into the Fold". The song opens with a hearty piano solo quickly

ought to a smooth drum beat. As the track progresses, lurking sounds creep into the ears of the listener giving

ng an ominous vibe with a warning tone. The song transitions back and forth between moments of tinkling,

ratching and zipping sound eects to moments of sweet melodic piano solos summing up the variety of musi

tener will hear as the album continues.

lfway through the album we arrive at a song called Change Of Heart; one of the most heart-wrenching and

nest displays of emotion on the album. This song is full of deep, solid piano arpeggios that might represent y

t telling you youve had a change of heart. At the same time a vulnerable layer of high-pitched piano verses aedding tears. This song brings to life the emotions of a changing heart; the sense of intuition, sadness and re

n.

e album comes to an end with an entirely reective piece called Wherever You Are. This song sounds like the

emory. It is laced with moments of reective and hopeful piano verses and listeners can fathom themselves

nking of an old friend, imagining where they might be in the world.

ch song on this album is beautifully honest and true to its theme. Arnold and Berkman have an amazing abili

t only layer piano verses and sounds, but layer emotions in their songs.

Albu

Revie


3/21

Ten Year Vamp - "Lust"

2011) [Album

Review]


rtist: Ten Year Vamp

abel: Ten Year Vamp Music

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: TenYearVamp.com

Ten Year Vamp on Twitter Ten Year Vamp on Facebook Ten

enre(s): Pop music, Power pop, Rock, Rock and roll, Singer-Songwriter

emale-fronted and high-energy rock band Ten Year Vamp has recently released their latest 5 track album Lust. T

and is often described as a cross between Pink and the Foo Fighters and has become known for their charm an

x appeal. This new album is a ery collection of songs exploring everything lust and everything love.

he album opens with a song called Got 2 Me. The track opens with a catchy, upbeat guitar ri and progresses

full on rocknroll jam as lead singer Debbie Gabrione sings, I toss and I turn at night / trying with all of my mig

cant get you out of my head. This song is about bumping into love unexpectedly and being consumed by it

ysterious and gripping eect. Gabrione sings, I never thought / this moment you would catch my eye / I didn

ink youd be my type / is this right.

No Risk is a mellow, reective song about the choice to avoid love and an inevitable broken heart. This song h

tchy chorus as Gabrione sings, There is no games / no fears if you never start / and there is no pain / no tears/

oken heart / and there is no chance / no risk to be torn apart / oh love aint worth a broken heart. Despite the

essimistic attitude portrayed in this song, Ten Year Vamp ends the song reminding listeners to take the risk of a

oken heart because there is a chance you can nd the one.

he album ends with an attitude-lled song called Dont Be Alone With Me. This track is full of raging drum

xcerpts and bold vocals; listeners might compare it to a song by popular rock group Paramore as Gabrione sing

e relenting and always catchy chorus, dont be alone with me.

en Year Vamp plans to perform throughout the US during 2011-2012 and will soon be featured on an upcomingaystation game, A Band.

Album

Review


4/21

Tori Amos - "Night of

Hunters" (2011) [Album

Review]By Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With It

Artist: Tori Amos

Label: Deutsche Grammophon

Release Date: 2011

Website: ToriAmos.com

Tori Amos on Twitter Tori Amos on Facebook Tori Amos on

Genre(s): Ambient, Classical, Meditation, Orchestral, Singer-

Songwriter, Sonata, World music

This year platinum-selling singer-songwriter Tori Amos continues her legacy of ground-breaking recordings w

her new album Night of Hunters: a 21st century song cycle inspired by select classical pieces spanning the la

years and drawing on themes of composers like Satie, Granados and Chopin to name a few. This album tells

modern love story unraveled after a journey to Irelands mythic past and features musicians like the Musaget

Quartet and the Berlin Philharmonic as well as clarinet soloist Andreas Ottensamer.

Night of Hunters opens with a song called "Shattering Sea". The track opens with a daring, ominous piano so

accompanied by tip toeing string plucks and repeatedly progresses into moments of eerie, twisted chaos and

sporadic instrumental solos. Listeners will feel like Tori is whispering to them when she sings That is not my

on the bedroom oor / that is not the glass that I threw before. This track feels like the set of a crime scene. Tinstruments are scattering, nervous and adrenaline-lled as Tori calmly analyzes the scene and sings the deta

listeners.

Halfway through the story, or album if you will, we skip to the scene of Job's Con. This track has a remorse

grieving sound as Tori sings Jobs Con looks down / Jobs con looks down / to see what man-kind is gonna

If youre picturing an actual con and feel a little confused, dont worry. I did the same thing. It turns out Job

Con is a constellation looking down on us watching the decisions we make. This track has a wise, fortune t

like vibe and is accompanied by uttering oat solos and calm piano excerpts as Amos constantly warns us w

being watched by Jobs Con.

The album ends with a song called Carry. This track opens with a delicate piano and violin solo as Amos entthe song with a lonely, calm and reective tone. This song feels like a collection of memories: some faint and

bold and vivid. Amos sings you will not ever be forgotten by me as the song slowly becomes a faint memor

the minds of the listener.

Album

Revie


5/21

Mama Chill - Nobody

Wants To Know Ya

When Ya Nobody

Album Review] (2011)

y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty

With It

rtist: Mama Chill

abel: Self-Released

elease Date: 2011

Website: Mama Chill on ReverbNation

Mama Chill on Twitter Mama Chill on Facebook Mama Chill on MySpace

enre(s): Hip-Hop, Pop music, Power pop, Rap, Rock, Soul music

ama Chill, a UK rapper and storyteller has spent the last four years carefully crafting her new album Nobody W

o Know Ya When Ya Nobody. In the process of putting together this album, she was told by doctors a career in

usic was unrealistic due to her medical condition (Scoliosis, M.E, Fibromylagia & Osteoporosis). She didnt liste

em. The result: this amazing new album blending elements of rap, hip hop and indie with a touch of 80s are

he rst track on the album is called LowDown Dirty Raw N Street. This track is an electric, in-your-face biograp

bout Mama Chill as she takes listeners on a journey through her past and makes it clear she is unafraid to let it

ut and share who she is with the world. Listeners might nd it easy to compare Mama Chill to pop artist Pink. S

ngs a series of condent verses like by the time I was walking / I was walking with a strut and constantly bursto the unforgiving and catchy chorus I like it lowdown dirty, raw n Street.

ionHart opens with a sweet guitar arpeggio. Mama Chill enters the song with a series of spoken word verses

cites, I come across as arrogant sometimes / Im aware of it / got other stu inside / just dont wanna share it /

ont matter now / the damage is done / just gotta get over / whatever / move on / all got stories to make anoth

ed tears. This track is intimate and full of completely raw and honest poetry laced with a sweet melodic chor

ehind calm humming and string excerpts.

he album comes to an end with a chill song called Say, featuring the Watford Gospel Arts Manna Community

hoir. This is an inspirational song that encourages listeners to say what they want to say before it's too late. Mngs Dont stay tough forever / its never weak to show you care / its alright to feel like a failure / so if you got a

other or someone else you call blood / go tell em just how much theyre loved. This song is full of love and so

nd listeners will be left feeling thankful and touched.

l Mama Chills songs are beautiful and empowering spreading the message that anything can be done.

Album

Review


6/21

CSS - "La Liberacion"

2011) [Album

Review]

y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With

tist: CSS

bel: Cooperative Music

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: CSSHurtsSuxxx.blogspot.com

SS on Twitter CSS on Facebook CSS on MySpace

nre(s): Chillout, Club, Dance, Electro, Electronica, Pop music, Power pop, Reggae, Rock, Singer-Songwriter, Syn

p

August 29th Co-Operative Music released CSS long awaited LP La Liberacin. CSS is a Brazilian rock band fro

o Paulo consisting of 5 band members: Lovefoxxx, Adriano Cintra, Luiza Sa, Ana Rezende and Carolina Parra w

e known for blending elements of club music, reggae and funk. La Liberacion is a diverse and energetic collec

hich was written while the group was on tour.

e album opens with a song called I Love You. This track is set behind a constant electric tick tock beat and fu

ck-up vocal sound eects as Lovefoxxx breaks through chanting I Love You. It is laced with winding, spinning

ectro verses and has that daydreaming in the 80s vibe. You know what Im talking about, right? If not, just list

d youll feel it; that oating, careless, on the verge of being hypnotized electric power!

ou Could Have It All has a very lighthearted, tip-toeing vibe as it opens with a sweet calm piano verse and dev

s into a sweet melody as Lovefoxxx sweetly sings You could have it all / you could have it all / but then whats

me? This bi-polar song jumps back and forth between moments of sweet humming and high pitched vocal

rses to hard hitting, forceful excerpts keeping listeners on their toes.

e couldnt resist ending this review with an analysis of the song Fuck Everything. This song has that pissed o

d-up, I dont care tone staying true to its title. Lovefoxxx spits relentless vocal lines outlining all the things she

uld care less about: being high, being a pig, being lazy etc. Listeners will feel wound-up angry as they slowly

ncede to the urge and join in screaming Fuck Everything with the band.

Album

Review


7/21

Smoke Fairies -

"Through Low Light

and Trees" (2011)

[Album Review]

By Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of

Whitty With It

Artist: Smoke Fairies

Label: Year Seven Records

Release Date: 2011

Website: SmokeFairies.com

Smoke Fairies on Twitter Smoke Fairies on

Genre(s): Country, Folk, Indie music, Lo-

music, Singer-Songwriter

Smoke Fairies is a British folk-based duo made up of Jessica Davies and Katherine Blamire who are known for

dark, acoustic songs with elements of bluegrass and Appalachian Folk. The duo has released a new two-disc

called Through Low Light and Trees which was recorded during a 10-day session at Cornwalls Sawmills Studio

This album sounds like autumn. Davies and Blamire were inspired by the eects of changing seasons as they

this album in a secluded studio only accessible by boat.

The rst track on the album is Summer Fades, which captures the transition from summer to fall as the world

things living prepare for a cold and bleak winter. Listeners will feel excited and anxious as this calm, enchanti

summons feelings of nostalgia and new beginnings. The track is full of delicate guitar solos and beautiful har

vocal duets that will have listeners feeling like the leaves are already falling.

Strange Moon Rising has a unique twang-like sound. The vocal lines in this track sound ominous and chant-

behind a winding guitar solo laced throughout the piece. Ghostly back-up vocals add a strange element of m

and fantasy emerge as the piece embodies the presence of a strange moon in the sky and its odd eect on th

After the Rain is an acoustic song laced with trickling minimalist guitar excerpts and a hauntingly sparse vibe

captures the anticipation and nervousness one would feel after stepping outside into a new, clean fresh world

possibilities.

The album comes to an end with a somber, lullaby-like song called Human Concerns. This track has deep co

vocals slightly accompanied by faint background vocals and daydreaming guitar ris. Listeners will start feeli

drowsy after hearing this track.

All Smoke Fairies songs summon a powerful sense of imagery and have the power to put listeners into a nost

pensive and observant mood.

Album

Review


8/21

Knowledge Lives Forever

"Hate Me Now" (2011)

Album Review]

y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With

rtist: Knowledge Lives Forever

bel: Self-Released

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: KnowledgeLivesForever.com

nowledge Lives Forever on Twitter Knowledge Lives

enre(s): Electro, Electronica, Hip-Hop, Psychedelic,

p, Rhythm and Blues (R&B), Rock, Singer-

ngwriter, Soul music

owledge Lives Forever is a local Reno Nevada Hip Hop group known for harmoniously blending elements of R

oustic, Soul, Funk and Electronic. The group, who now consists of Chari "Knowledge" Smith, Asa Dakin, Kris St

m Radzik and Vanessa Rodriguez recently released a new album called Hate Me Now featuring bassist Gia Torc

te Me Now is full of catchy tracks that explore topics from love and hate to Proposition 8. The rst of a future

ogy, it represents of the growth and unity the band has developed since their birth.

allen For You is a smooth, sexy track full of electric twang behind a chill drum beat. Dancing piano verses lurk

e background as Chari spits heart-felt verses about falling in love. She raps, Juliet could never love like you /

meo never felt like I do / one thing that I do know is true / my world minus me equals you / like BB King with n

ues / like Michael Jackson without boos / like CSI without clues / thats how I be without you The track is laceddistorted feel-good chorus featuring Reno, NV soulstress Whitney Meyer. Listeners will feel touched by the raw

nesty and thoughtfulness.

one" is a piece full of trembling electronic sound eects with a psychedelic funky vibe. Charis energetic verse

the move in this track as she condently breaks through electronic chaos to spread the message dont make

y it again / dont ever question my name / dont need no more excuses / I know whats really goin on. This trac

ve listeners hearts beating a little faster.

e album comes to an end with a song called Hate Me Now. Chari enters the song with an in your face, bragg

os tone that says "I have arrived and Im not going anywhere. This track constantly bursts into an energetic, cli

chorus as Chari spits you can hate me now, but youll love me later, take my hat o, throw the deuces to theters. This anthem to the haters is spilling with raw verses about Charis musical journey and fused with scand

itar solos that will ring in the listeners ears.

te Me Now is full of honest vocals and lively instrumentals. With catchy hooks coming from all directions, liste

ll enjoy listening to this timeless album over and over.

Album

Review


9/21

Alessi's Ark - "Time

Travel" (2011) [Album

Review]

y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of WhittyWith It

rtist: Alessi's Ark

abel: Bella Union

elease Date: 2011

Website: Alessisark.com

enre(s): Folk, Indie music, Pop music, Singer-

ongwriter

essi Laurent, one of the UK's most charming indie

lk-pop singer/songwriters, has released her debut album under Bella Union called Time Travel. Although she i

, Time Travel showcases Alessis blossomed and mature new sound proving age is just a number. Her folk-po

arm is laced throughout this dreamy and timeless sophomore album and listeners will appreciate an exquisite

eyond its years.

e album opens with short and sweet song called Kind of Man. This track is minimalist with moments of won

uitar twangs and introduces Alessis quiet, delicate vocals as she sings only a kind of man can do this / and do

make you feel like hes true / like all he loves is you". This track feels like the innocent and sweet daydream wev

perienced imagining the perfect man/woman.

he Fever is a short, but extremely interesting interlude dancing with trickling piano verses. It blends element

zz with a somewhat Asian vibe, yet stays true to Alessis childlike, sweet essence. Listeners will be touched by

tremely fragile and fantastical track.

e album approaches an end with a cute track called The Robot. Alessis vocals take on a life of their own in th

they jump from interval to interval. Listeners might imagine a little child playing with their favorite doll or bu

ey listen to this playful, sweet love song about a robot. Alessi sings And though his body is sti / thats nothin

s kiss.

l Alessi's songs are full of refreshing, innocent moments and touching lyrics that will have listeners feeling playplifted.

Album

Revie


10/21

es - "Unleash the Beat"

2011) [Album Review]


rtist: Jesabel: Magik Musik

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: PlanetJes.com

s on Twitter Jes on Facebook Jes on MySpace

enre(s): Chillout, Club, Dance, Dubstep, Electro, Electronica, Pop music, Singer-Songwriter, Trance

es, also known as the Queen of Electronica is a New-York native who is known to create tracks that blend Rock

rance, Emo and Poptronica. She recently released her 4th album, Uleash the Beat, which is a fresh mixed albumontaining previously unreleased remixes and brand new songs that can be taken straight to the dance oor.

he album opens with a mix of the Taxigirl track High Glow. This track is full of echoes and funky electric beats

ehind Jes smoothly owing, sweet vocals. It has a muted vibe that will have listeners daydreaming as they are

arried from interlude to interlude and their minds are inltrated by todays newest sounds.

N.Y.C is a track Jes recorded with Richard Durand. This is an upbeat, bass heavy track full of repetition, rewinds

olid beat solos that slowly and continuously come to life as new sounds attach themselves to the beat. Jes rep

ocal line never get enough is cleverly laced throughout this track, which seems to oer more and more.

he album ends with a track called Back to You, which showcases the direct, more articulate and straight forwaone of Jes voice. Although there are moments of dreamlike vocal moaning, Jes voice becomes extremely crisp

resent in this track as if the dream is over and were back to real life. She remixes the catch vocal verse I keep

unning to get back to you throughout the track behind a somewhat playful and carefree electronic verse that

epeated throughout the song.

nleash the Beat stays true to its title. All songs are full of the newest most exciting and unleashed beats today

ccented with Jes owing and refreshing vocals.

Album

Review


11/21

Boy Plus Kite - "Go Fly"

2011) [Album Review]y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With It

rtist: Boy Plus Kite

abel: Self-Releasedelease Date: 2011

Website: BoyPlusKite.com

oy Plus Kite on Twitter Boy Plus Kite on Facebook

enre(s): Indie music, Lounge music, Pop music, Singer-Songwriter

the band Boy Plus Kite didnt start in a garage, where did they start? If you guessed hot tub you got it! Darvin

ones and Beth Puorro birthed the idea for their debut album Go Fly while lounging at a spa in the outskirts of

ustin. One night while discussing band break-ups in their their bathrobes, they realized a mutual understandi

usic and decided to collaborate. The result: Go Fly, which was released on July 26th, 2011.

his album showcases an eortless blend between Jones love for experimental sounds and Purros pop twist. It

een deemed the perfect summer blend; exploring relationships in their many shapes and forms and incorpora

elings of bitterness, raw energy and honesty.

he album opens with a song called Neighbors. This track has that cool, laid back summer vibe with streaming

uitar ris and a chill drum beat as Jones and Puorro explore the nature of a relationship with ones neighbor.

uorro sings black and white / my strange neighbors / curtains block the windows / all alone / Still around / pu

p with everything. The song develops into a vocal duet as Puorro and Jones plead Come down / Come down

he instrumentals are pleading as well with straining guitar ris that beg please as Puorrow and Jones reach a

ontinuously stronger and more insistent tone.

Think In Stereo has emerged as one of the most catchy tunes on the album for a good reason. The track open

ith a ridiculously catchy guitar ri laced throughout the song. Listeners will constantly anticipate the repetitio

his feel-good verse accented with Puorro and Jones up-lifting, laid-back vocals. Listeners might nd it easy to

ompare this song to Jack Mannequins hit Dark Blue.

he album ends with a tracked called Satellite"; which opens with rippling sound eects and progresses into a

mooth, walking-paced track with Jones vocals front and center. This track has an electric, static feel adding a m

turistic tone to this sweet summer collection.

Album

Review


12/21

Alyson Greeneld - "Rock

Out With Your Glockenspiel


rtist: Alyson Greeneld

abel: Roc-elle Recordselease Date: 2011

Website: AlysonGreeneld.com

yson Greeneld on Twitter Alyson Greeneld on Facebook

enre(s): 90's, Hip-Hop, Indie music, Pop music, Reggae, Singer-

ongwriter

n July 19th, 2011 Alyson Greeneld of Brooklyn released her EP Rock Out With Your Glockenspiel Out on Roc-E

ecords. This EP is a short sweet compilation of coves of classic songs like "Gangstas Paradise" and "All That She

ants" and has already began to create an online buzz in BK and Austin.

ock Out With Your Glockenspiel Out showcases Greeneld's unique solo vocals and instrumental skills as she

ings solos to life with the experimentation of instruments like the piano, guitar, autoharp, synthesizer, glocken

iel, chord organ, drums and guest beatboxers.

he EP opens with a cover of Ace of Bases 1993 hit, All That She Wants. The cover opens with a twinkling piano

lo echoing the original melody and transitions into Greenelds eclectic renovation laced with accented vocal

rses, ooh's, aah's and la la la's. This track has an improvisational vibe as Greeneld carries the song up, down a

ack and forth, while staying true to the original melody.

angstas Paradise is a lyrical rendition of a Coolio classic. Although Greeneld stays true to the lyrics of the

iginal, she breaks through with a completely new melody. The track opens with the playful sound of bells as

reeneld spits conversational vocal verses on verge of spoken word. Sweet glockenspiel arpeggios add a char

g touch to this unique poetic rendition.

he track ends with a version of the hit Milkshake by Kelis. Somehow, Greeneld has made this song classy. Th

ack opens with a lively piano intro which dances throughout the entire piece as Greenelds wholesomely dee

ocals add elements of depth and a jazz-like energy to the song, which in its original form, can be considered qu

allow and trashy. Now that takes skill.

ther covers on this EP include Inner Circle's Bad Boys (COPS theme song) and Mama Said Knock You Out by Lool J.

Album

Review


13/21

Hiromi Kanda - "Days of Yes-

erday" (2011) [Album

Review]y Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With It

rtist: Hiromi Kandabel: Music Gate Inc.

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: HiromiKanda.com

romi Kanda on Twitter Hiromi Kanda on Facebook

enre(s): Blues, Classical, Improvisational, Singer-Songwriter,

mooth jazz

hen Hiromi Kanda of Japan was exposed to American music via the armed forces, she began to develop a true

nd passion for many forms of music. After moving to Osaka at age 8 she became familiar with artists like Sinat

ole Porter, The Monkees and The Supremes and vowed to become a professional singer. She succeeded.

his September Kanda will release her latest album Days of Yesterday, which is a compilation of classic American

nditions and original pieces. Kandas silky, smooth and deep vocals are accompanied by classic jazz character

ano, Sax, trumpet and trombone.

ays of Yesterday opens with a rendition of Cole Porters "I Love Paris" and is laced with sassy Alto Sax solos by M

atingub. This classic track is full of the infamous care-free French attitude. Listeners will imagine themselves

dulging in delicious pastries, strolling around in the most fashionable outts and taking midnight strolls unde

el Tower. By the end of this track, listeners will love Paris too.

m Through with Love is a Gus Kahn rendition laced with heart wrenching Trumpet solos as Kanda spills her he

to the hopeless lyrics: Im through with love / Ill never fall again / Said adieu to love / Dont ever call again

ong is lonely. Listeners will hear Kandas voice and the instruments screaming I give up.

ne of the last tracks on the album is a Kanda original called "Dreamers". This track has a big band vibe and will

teners feel the urge to snap to the beat. Kandas voice is energetic and strong in this track with back-up voca

nda Harmon. This track contains playful lyrics as Kanda sings Look at me / Tick-tock-tick-tock / Like a clock in

eart

l Kandas tracks radiate with love for classic American jazz. From Cole Porter to Charlie Chaplin and Gus Kahn,

anda brings these classic songs to life with her smooth, passionate and silky vocals.

Album

Review


14/21

Tidelands - "If..."

2011) [Albumy Whitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty

ith It

tist: Tidelands

bel: Self-Released

elease Date: 2011

ebsite: TidelandsMusic.com

delands on Facebooknre(s): Ambient, Experimental, Indie music,

w Age music, Singer-Songwriter

n July 26th, 2011 San Francisco Duo Gabriel Montana Leis and Mie Araki, also known as Tidelands, will release t

but album If...; a colorful mix of guitar, ugelhorn, drums, keyboards and pure poetry. With sharp and poignan

ics, beautiful harmonies and back up instrumentals contributed by the Magik*Magik Orchestra, Tidelands pick

eir listeners and takes them on a unique journey through the album.

opens with sweet bells in the track "Holy Grail". This song is full of uplifting and inspiring orchestral excerpts

ed with bells behind Gabriels running, almost breathless vocal lines. It features moments of powerful horn so

d climactic instrumental phrases that will have listeners tingling and excited as their energy levels rise with an

tion.

etter To A Young Soldier I Love" is a sweet track with heart-wrenching arpeggios and a slow-jam-style drum be

hind smooth, pensive lead vocal lines and faint back-up vocals. It contains moments of quiet melodic solos an

ghtly southern home-style guitar lines that will have listeners feeling extra cozy and relaxed as they open thei

arts to the honest, raw vibe of this track. It is a love letter brought to life.

e last track on the album is "Marigolds". This track alternates back and forth between Gabriels soft, smooth sig

re vocal lines and a colorful variety of horn solos mostly likely inspired by Araki, who discovered her unique ab

write horn melodies after attending the Manhattan School of Music. This song feels like a summary. Listeners

el reective, as if remembering all their favorite moments of the journey theyve experienced listening to the

bum.

contains a truly unique blend of instrumentals. Not many bands are brave enough to adopt a horn as one of

ain instruments. Tidelands, however, brings this instrument to life and demonstrates an impressive ability to b

trumentals and vocals into deep, wholesome tracks. By the end of this album listeners will feel emotionally

nnected, as though theyve been on the Tidelands bandwagon since day one.

Album

Review


15/21

ey dont call her a magic maker for nothing! In her 9 track

bum The Wolf & Me, Caits Meissner embraces music, visual art

d poetry to remind the world there is nothing that does not

ake us feel alive. Caits is a multi-disciplinary, award-winning

et and storyteller from Brooklyn, New York who has

rformed from the street corners of Columbia University to

e 2008 inaugural Pan-African Literary Forum in Accra, Ghana,

here she studied with Pulitzer Prize winner Yusef Komun-

kaa. Her work creates a spark of anticipation and provokes

ep thought about the most ordinary moments of life, likehen the ceiling catches your attention or when you notice the shadows created by the sun shining through your window

ter listening to her album, the small complexities of life are clearer.

e Wolf & Me is split into three sections following the traditional beginning, middle and end storytelling format. Caitss in

courages her listeners to lie down, stretch, relax and never stop seeking as the combination of smooth drums beats, u

ng stringed notes and spoken word inspire a hypnotizing feeling of curiosity and anticipation within.

ne of the most musically diverse and unique songs on the album is called The Blackest Blood. The piece begins with a c

te solo, lively drum beat and light energetic vocals which eventually transition into the spoken word style that characte

itss album.

Song for the Ordinary is a track that encompasses Caitss unique ability as an artist to bring light and thought to the moundane, average moments in ones life. The track features brokeMC and takes the listener on a trip through one's own m

eating images of moments we all experience; like laying on your bed staring at the ceiling and realizing that the person y

ying to is not the person you want to be laying next to.

e middle interlude is lled with long, repetitive stringed notes and an ominous solo which creates a strong sense of anti

n and nervous energy leading into the nal stretch of the album. This is music you can think to.

e last half of the album comes to a calming nish, leaving the listener with a feeling of resolution and closure as the tack

adually become shorter, softer and eventually come to an end with a short, sweet outro.

aits Meissner - "The Wolf

& Me" (2010) [AlbumWhitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With It

ist: Caits Meissner

bel: Caits Meissner

ease Date: 2010

ebsite: Caits.Mvmt.comts Meissner on Twitter Caits Meissner on Facebook Caits

Album

Revie


16/21

What do you get when you take the melody of a classic rock

ong, turn it indie, have a woman sing it then add some

ectronic? Blue Sky Vertigo by Electron Love theory; a beauti-

l feminine twist on some of the most popular U2 hits.

ward winning musician/producer and U2 superfan Je

eisawitz is responsible for crafting the album Blue Skyertigo. From covering his walls with U2 posters to writing

ositive reviews for almost every U2 release as a member of the press, with this album, Je might have become the ultim

ue Sky Vertigo is an emotional, soothing and nostalgic collection of songs laced with the electric & acoustic guitar and l

oices of 14 female vocalists. It will make you want to dance and relax at the same time.

he album opens with one of U2s classic hits I Will Follow. Instantly listeners will notice the same great melody with an u

mooth electric vibe. The track features the soothing vocals of Allison Bazarko. It turns out electronic music CAN be tastef

one. This track gets the listeners energy owing and sets the tone for the rest of the collection.

Vertigo" is an energetic upbeat track featuring vocalist Lola Love, who has a rebellious catchy voice. Its the kind of song

an denitely dance to with a steady, constant beat and funky bass line.

ne of the most tastefully produced tracks on the album is the infamous Sunday Bloody Sunday featuring the sweet, co

laxing vocals of Emilia Sosa. This track is a beautiful feminine renovation of a classic listeners might remember soundin

spy, deep and RocknRoll.

he album comes to a relaxing end with the track All I Want is You. This track feels like a Sunday night slow jam, putting t

stener at ease with the deep unique voices of Bridgid Roney and Amber Flame. Its reective vibe is a perfect way to end

lly innovative collection.

lectron Love Theory - "Blue Sky

ertigo" (2010) [Album Review]


rtist: Electron Love Theory

abel: Electron Love Theory

elease Date: 2010

Website: LoveTheory.comectron Love Theory on Twitter Electron Love Theory on

acebook

Album

Review


17/21

Bird Call - "The Animals

Know" (2010) [AlbumWhitney Lewis, Contributing Editor of Whitty With It

tist: Bird Call

bel: FHC Records

lease Date: 2010

ebsite: BirdCallMusic.com

- Waltz in the Snow 02 - Berlin 03 - The Animals Know 04 -

e, Bye Honeymoon 05 - The Races

- The Battle Outside the Gates to Your Arms

e Animals Know is a sweet and genuine 6 track album

oduced by Brooklyn based Chiara Angelicola aka Bird Call.

gelicola teamed up with famed producer Joel Hamilton to

eate an album laced with piano and orchestral solos conveying six honest, raw passionate messages like entrie

ry. Her strong, condent voice is full of assurance, sophistication and trust.

e album opens with "Waltz in the Snow", a playful piece with bouncing piano lines and upbeat, blissful stringe

nversing with one another. Filled with nostalgia, this song will paint a picture of playing in the snow and spar

ner child with phrases like Theres no monsters around here.

erlin" is a soothing piece that would go great with a warm cup of tea. Full of long, deep streaming stringed not

m piano, this peaceful, reective piece will put listeners at ease.

e third track The Animals Know, is one of the albums most lyrically insightful pieces about the unique ability

ve to sense situations before they happen. She sings, The animals know when to run from the re and it hasn

rted. Lyrics like these demonstrate Angelicolas insightful, down to earth nature, also expressed in the title of bum; The Animals Know.

ye, Bye Honeymoon" is the most exciting, energetic song on the album. It is driven by a racing piano arpeggio

gelicolas exciting vocal range. Fused with positive energy, this song summons a sense condence and self- a

ce that will leave the listener feeling accomplished.

e album ends with the song "The Battle Outside the Gates to Your Arms"; a beautiful lullaby-like piece laced w

aceful humming and passionate instrumental solos. This emotionally raw piece is the perfect way to end an a

gly intimate collection of music.

Album

Review


18/21

Shunda K - "The Most Wanted" (2011)

Album Review]enre(s): Club, Dance, Electro, Electronica, Freestyle, Hip-Hop, Neo Soul, Rap, Rhythm

d Blues (R&B), Soul music

is New Year on on 1/11/11, Plant City, FL hip-hopper Shunda K is releasing her new

bum The Most Wanted. She is breaking free from the group Yo! Majesty for the rstme to release an exciting 20 track album laced with musical genres including Rock n

ll, R&B, Electronic and Soul.

e album is full of powerful lyrics about love, art, money, religion and sexuality with

mpowering beats and messages, funky bass lines and an energetic upbeat energy. It

atures a variety of Ks personal artistic connections and collaborators; secret ingredi-

ts if you will.

ove Me features Pumpsta and Ms. Tedra and explores all the facets of love; its pres-

ce in the past, present and future, its visibility/invisibility and its innite forms. K raps

out the phases of falling in love to a funky bass line and bongo-like drum beat.

gardless of the message that love has many forms and identities, the track is one listeners can relate to. Ks lyrics describe journey of falling in love everyone experiences and things we all say when we think were in love:

oure the one for me

l give you what you need

We can be more than just friends

got just what you need

s Time to Get Paid featuring Snax will have listeners re-living the last time they cashed in! It has that beat that will makeNYONE want to get up and start dancing. Dont know what beat Im talking about? Give it a listen and you will experienc

at Ohhhhh moment. After listening to this track it is apparent Shunda knows what its like to get paid. In all her songs K

ptures the genuine essence of the parts of life we all experience.

eep in the Melody featuring The Real Fiasco is full of melodies opening with a catchy, beautiful piano melody repeated

riations, sometimes with new instruments. Streaming stringed lines and Shundas melodic vocal line towards the end o

ng bring listeners even deeper into the melody. This song just feels good to listen to. A melody always feels good.

rt and Music featuring Raspberry Cocaine is one of the most empowering tracks on the album. K urges listeners to let

ur light shine and never be afraid to be who you are. The song opens with k' describing how she will take the listener o

usical journey. "Why do I get to tell this story?" she asks. "Because of Art and Music."

e album ends with the track HARD!. In this song K exudes condence and embraces her relationship with her wife Ms.

dra with lines like Got my lady by my side and with my wifey by my side the hottest chick in the game. It has a retro/s

be and K makes it clear she is untouchable and strong.

ese are just ve of the pieces on this substantial album. The great thing about this album is the themed titles. "DANCIN

about dancing. "Its Time To Get Paid" is about getting paid. Each song is powerfully written and stays true to its themed

e. Looking at the track list, listeners will be able to paint a clear picture about the topics and issues Shunda K speaks ou

out.

Album

Review


19/21


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