Monday, September 10, 2007

"Grind Hard Vol. 1: Why Would I Leave?" by Trigga Da Don (Hip-Hop/Rap artist from Georgia (GA))

Grind Hard Vol. 1: Why Would I Leave? by Trigga Da Don is a polished and enjoyable hip-hop/rap CD. On the CD, Trigga brings out a Southern rap style in songs that relate to street life, poverty, political views, and other social issues. After listening to the fast, clear, and well-syncopated lyrics on this CD, you'll know why Trigga earned his name. The songwriting, production and recording quality on this CD are all solid. In fact, Trigga complements his thoughtful lyrics, with a strong backing beat and interesting sound effects, like the church bells and race car on Bout Da Action. Furthermore, the choruses are melodic and memorable, including the vocals in the chorus of In My Room. One word of caution, with its healthy dose of profanity, this is a CD for mature audiences. Fans of hip/hop-rap and artists such as 2Pac, will enjoy this CD.
-RadioIndy.com Staff
 
 
 
 

Friday, September 7, 2007

"We Believe" by Brian and Jenn Johnson (Christian Adult Rock/Worship artists from California (CA))

"We Believe" by the captivating Brian and Jenn Johnson is a moving collection of original Christian adult rock worship anthems! Opening with the energetic "Greatly to Be Praised," Brian and Jenn immediately demonstrate their ability to craft beautiful lyrics. "Isn't He Great" best displays Brian's powerful vocals. Jenn is no exception, delivering stunning vocals on "Oh Taste and See." In fact, every track on this CD is sung with excellent pitch and vocal quality, and deep emotion and passion. Furthermore, the musicianship on this record is absolutely amazing! Although these songs are built for congregational worship, they have all the necessary attributes to break through the church walls and into the radio airwaves! Hailing remarkable production, this CD is a must-have! Fans of Chris Tomlin and the Newsboys will jump for joy at the sounds of this sincere, heart-felt collection of adult rock worship songs!

 

 
 
-Xavier P. and RadioIndy
 

"Country Recitations" by Allan Traynor (Spoken Word/Country artist from Canada (CA))

Allan Traynor's "Country Recitations" is a heart-wrenching assembly of spoken word tunes. Every track on this CD is crafted with lyrical precision and performed with passion and fervor. Tackling patriotic themes, memories of youth, and life experiences, these tales are brought to life by Allan's emotional story-telling of mostly real-life experiences. "The Letter" and "Why Soldiers Cry" tell sad tales of tragic loss and fallen heroes, yet they bring healing and closure through words of sympathy, valor, and profound courage. What's more, each track of "Country Recitations" is backed by lovely acoustic guitars and graceful stringed instruments. Finished with solid production, this CD is one that fans of spoken word and country music should not go without!
 
 
 
 
 
 
-Xavier P. for RadioIndy.com!

"The Enchanted Highway" by Mary Beth Cross (Acoustic/Country artist from Colorado (CO))

"The Enchanted Highway" by Mary Beth Cross is an enticingly innovative acoustic country album with a Celtic folk and spiritual twist! Kicking off the journey down this highway is the nature-inspired title-track, which opens with a captivating arrangement of native drum and flute arrangements. It's not long before listeners are introduced to Mary Beth's easy-going, pacifying vocal tone. Her unforgettable voice delivers a tranquil sense of comfort, which perfectly compliments the emotional mood of these tunes! "Stay" offers an insight into Mary Beth's compelling lyrical themes. Telling a story of the elation that comes from reuniting with an old friend, "Stay" is like most of the songs on this CD in that it recounts climatic life experiences and sacred moments. What's more, every musical performance on this CD is bright, brilliant, and masterful! Shining production puts this CD on the list of must-haves! Fans of country, folk, acoustic, and spiritual music, take a trip down the "Enchanted Highway" today!

 

 
-Xavier P. for RadioIndy.com
 

Wednesday, September 5, 2007

"Who We Are" by Lifehouse (DreamWorks Adult Rock band from Los Angeles, California (CA))

Lifehouse's latest Dreamworks release and fourth studio album "Who We Are" strikes a beautiful balance between their early hard-driving Creed sound and their new-found adult-rock/contemporary vibe. Although this release doesn't venture into any new territories, playing it safe for Lifehouse isn't such a bad decision, judging from their huge successes of the past. Their first radio single, "First Time," proves to be just as mesmerizing and chest-swelling as every Lifehouse song. Power ballad after power ballad, Lifehouse effortlessly keeps listeners entertained with their hypnotic electric guitars and trademark, edgy baritone vocals. "The Joke" is perhaps the most daring song on this album. Venturing into a more upbeat groove, a heavier edge, and a less melodic vocal arrangement, this song is perhaps the only one that doesn't sound like typical Lifehouse. Despite an overall lack of ingenuity and experimentation, "Who We Are" delivers all the great elements that have placed Lifehouse on the top!
-Xavier P. for RadioIndy.com
 
 
 

Daughtry's Self-Titled Debut (Sony Major-Label artist from North Carolina (NC))

Finishing fourth place in the TV mega-hit American Idol was only the beginning for Chris Daughtry. Finding the shoes with the perfect fit, Daughtry's self-titled debut delivers song after song of alternative and adult-rock glory! There's something about Chris's voice that is intensely captivating – perhaps it's his blend of smooth and grunge vocal tones that's so appealing. Moreover, Daughtry incorporates a little bit of everything for rock lovers - from adult rock power-ballads like the smash-hit "Home" and "Gone" to the near-metal sounds of "What I Want" and "There And Back Again." One thing remains clear throughout one's journey through "Daughtry" - this album was built to produce radio-hit after radio-hit. Inevitably, this means that there's not much that's innovative or pioneering for those who like bands who take music to new heights. Nevertheless, this album quenches any thirst for great rock anthems with powerful lyrics and memorable song structures!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 

"Table For One" by Joe Colledge (Adult Rock artist from Northern New Jersey (NJ))

Joe Colledge's engaging adult rock collection "Table For One" will keep listeners groovin' from start to finish! Great vocals define the beauty of "Table For One" – Joe's cool, smooth tone rings with heavy appeal! "Lost Again" flaunts some great instrumentation, incorporating the graceful sounds of harmonica leads and organ backdrops. Musical hooks seem to be Joe's specialty – every song is laden with fresh hooks, making these tunes unforgettable. The heart-felt love ballad "Deep Into You" ventures into Joe's serene acoustic side. "Loosing Faith" demonstrates Joe's passionate vocals and his comfort with wearing his heart on his sleeve. Moreover, the lyrics of every song on this CD are sincere and skillfully written with poetic fervor, covering life experiences that we all can relate to. Finished with brilliant production defined by great quality, "Table For One" is one CD that music lovers should not do without! Fans of Tom Petty and Counting Crows, quickly find your seat at this "Table For One" – You don't want to miss out on this audio adventure!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 

"Sinners & Saviors" by Sixth Degree (Rock band from Ohio (OH))

"Sinners & Saviors" by the explosive Sixth Degree is an energetic brew of hard-driving rock anthems! It's easy to notice a sense of chemistry between these band members, perhaps because this band is comprised of two sets of brothers. Regardless, one thing's for sure – this band has a very tight and fresh sound. Melodic arrangements of overdriven guitars paired with edgy, powerful vocals fuse together to produce unforgettable songs! "Waiting" opens with a mesmerizing bass line, and quickly releases its rock fury to become mosh-pit-perfect! Moreover, this band has a keen sense for producing catchy melodies and choruses, as demonstrated by songs like "Reach Higher." Displaying their diversity, "Let It All Go" takes on a more alternative sound. With production as impressive as The Sixth Degree's songwriting, "Sinners & Saviors" should be in every rock-lover's collection. Fans of Linkin Park and Sevendust will fall head-over-heals for this new rock sensation!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 

"A Don't Hug Me Christmas Carol" by Phil & Paul Olson (Holiday/Easy-listening artists from Los Angeles, California (CA))

It's Christmas year-round with this comedic collection of original holiday carols! Phil & Paul Olson's "A Don't Hug Me Christmas Carol" will have listeners laughing nonstop with hilarious tunes like "Its Christmas Time So Please Give Me Some"! Musically, these tunes radiate a delightful easy-listening vibe and deliver a delightful variety of instrumentation, sounds, and arrangements. "I Love You More Than Football" shows off this duo's roll-on-the-floor funny lyrics and creative musical compositions. What's more, Phil and Paul's vocals are vibrant, full of personality, and fuse together to produce a dynamic twosome! Wrapped in beautiful production, this Christmas present is one that every holiday-addict should have! Fans of comedic holiday music will find laughter and endless entertainment in this hilarious CD!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 
 

"Be Nice To My Monkey" by The Marty Crawfitt Band (Country-Rock band from Indiana (IN))

"Be Nice To My Monkey" by the witty Marty Crawfitt Band is a fun-filled country-rock album! Talk about humor – songs about monkeys, girls with mustaches, and cowboys and bras make for a very lighthearted, comedic audio experience! Although these lyrics are lighthearted, this band takes musicianship very seriously. The title-track opens with a sweet electric guitar melody, and continues to grasp listeners with Marty's fun-filled vocals – listeners even get a great big belch on this one! "She's Got A Black Mustache" flaunts an amazing electric solo, and "Cowboys Don't Wear Bras" picks up an edgier intro, while introducing the sweet sounds of the banjo! Solid production brings this CD-full-of-laughs to a nice close. Fans of Cledus T. Judd will find laugh after laugh of pure enjoyment on this memorable CD!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 
 

"Ya Salio de la Mar - Ladino Songs" by Ofri Eliaz (World artist from Isreal)

"Ya Salio de la Mar – Ladino Songs" by the brilliant Ofri Eliaz is a stunning collection of heavenly world compositions! Standing out above all the amazing instrumentation is Ofri's beautiful voice, perhaps best described as angelic. "Adio Kerida" serves as a perfect example of Ofri's graceful voice. Intriguing musical arrangements is next on the list of accolades. Achieving a sound that mixes traditional Mediterranean sounds with cosmopolitan flavors, Ofri concocts pioneering tunes that are unforgettable! "Hamavdil" and "La Serena" flaunts this fantastic fusion of cultures. Hailing professional production that excels in clarity and creativity, "Ya Salio de la Mar – Ladino Songs" is one CD that every fan of world music should add to their collection!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy)
 
 
 
 

"Faith In You" by Heaven Leigh (Spiritual/Easy-Listening artist from Colorado (CO))

Heaven Leigh's "Faith In You" is best described as a therapeutic assembly of spiritual masterpieces! Opening with the emotional and passionate title track, listeners are quickly introduced to Heaven's soothing, soulful vocals. Showing off a wide range of musical influences is the island-inspired "You Are Love," which opens with a stunning steel pan intro! One very memorable aspect of "Faith In You" is its powerful, uplifting, and faith-filled lyrical themes of divine hope, family, and romance. The heavenly ballads "Unbroken Spirits" and "Standing By Your Side" show off Heaven's well-crafted lyrics, and directs the spotlight to the beautiful and skillful instrumentation present throughout this entire CD. Placing the icing on the cake is production marked by clarity and balance! Fans of Rebecca St. James and even Celine Dion will find a spiritual connection to these heart-warming hits!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 
 

"21st Century" by Filly Astro (Rock artist from British Columbia, Canada (CA))

Venture into the "21st Century" with the thrilling Filly Astro and you'll find yourself in rock heaven! Hard-driving, grinding, and electrifying are just some of the many ways to describe this powerhouse collection. "Wait For Me" flaunts some unforgettable electric guitar riffs, and introduces listeners to Filly's powerful and edgy vocals! "Glass Window" delivers an irresistible groove, and serves as insight into the creative and soul-searching lyrics of these tunes. Veering back to the sounds of classic rock, "Cecile" slows down the pace a bit and invites listeners to take a taste of Filly's delightful diversity. Moreover, skillful instrumentation and quality production brings this collection to a very nice finish! Fans of Bon Jovi and Pearl Jam will appreciate this awesome collection of rock hits!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy)
 
 
 
 

"Free of Ugly" by Andrea Amos (Pop artist from Illinois (IL))

"Free of Ugly" by the highly experienced Andrea Amos is an eclectic collection of pop hits! "Why" is the stock-character of this album – its catchy chorus, melodic arrangements, and strong-willed vocal performance is characteristic of every song on this energetic album! Perhaps the most brilliant aspect of "Free of Ugly" is its masterful instrumentation and diverse range of cultural influences. "Gonna Stand My Ground" delivers a delightful concoction of Spanish and Eastern European sounds, and best demonstrates Andrea's commanding and passionate vocals. What's more, the piano and electric guitar duo of "Waiting" is mesmerizing to say the least! Lyrically, "Free of Ugly" is quite uplifting, inspiring, and is undeniably crafted with excellence! Professional production turns this collection into 'the complete package'! Followers of Vanessa Carlton, Jewel, and Michelle Branch will find this album to be irresistible!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy)
 
 
 
 

"Upon This Rock" by Katholicus (Hard Rock/Spiritual band from Maryland (MD))

"Upon This Rock" by the unforgettable band cleverly dubbed Katholicus is a hard-hitting, electrifying collection of Christian hard rock tunes! "Come to Me" delivers some rockin' electric guitar solos, and flaunts a thrilling intro. "Upon this Rock" gives an insight into Katholicus' diversity, combining elements of traditional catholic songs with the delightful sounds of classic rock. Demanding, powerful, and melodic are just a few words that describe the vocals on this CD. The guitar work throughout the CD is amazing. "Everything" shows off these memorable vocal arrangements and harmonies. Moreover, the production of this CD is as electrifying as the songs themselves! Fans of the Scorpions and Petra will divinely fall in love with these heart-felt spiritual compositions!
-Xavier P. and RadioIndy
 
 
 
 

"Sleep In The Sea Tonight With Me" by Zayra Yves (Spoken Word/Easy-Listening artist from Silicon Valley Peninsula, California (CA))

"Sleep In The Sea Tonight With Me" by Zayra Yves is a sensual collection of modern poetry, set to the background of hypnotic and engaging compositions. One aspect of this CD that is both undeniable and irresistible is its thick emotional and visual atmosphere and dense mood. Zayra coveys messages of burning, flaming passion and desire for blissful love-making with lyrics that strike a beautiful balance between straight-forwardness and poetic abstraction and imagery. "I Want You" demonstrates the unmatchable passion and zeal Zayra puts into her vocals. "Eros and the Sea" paints beautiful imagery and is intensely intriguing with its creative analogies and delightful abstraction. What's more, the musical compositions of every song on this CD serve as the perfect accentuation and foundation for these stories of yearning and longing! Polished with graceful production, this CD is on fire! If you are searching for a poetic sensual journey, you will find your place in this CD!
-Xavier P. and RadioIndy
 
 
 

"Unknown and Famous Songs of Joni Mitchell" by Big Yellow Taxi (Acoustic artist from Denmark (DK))

"Unknown and Famous Songs of Joni Mitchell" by Big Yellow Taxi is a delightfully serene acoustic interpretation of songs by entertainment icon Joni Mitchell. The first thing that jumps out to listeners is the graceful instrumentation present on this CD – pacifying acoustic arrangements backed by soothing percussion. Above this instrumentation, the incredible vocals on this CD are quite comforting and very reminiscent of Joni Mitchell, including the effective use of falsetto. "A Case of You" introduces the lovely sounds of the grand piano, and demonstrates Big Yellow Taxi's perfectly toned vocals! "California" hails an acoustic intro that is very enticing and guest stars an accentuating electric guitar melody. As far as production goes, these tunes are all refined up and ready for consumption! Fans of Joni Mitchell will find themselves in paradise when listening to this CD!
-Xavier P. and RadioIndy.com
 
 
 
 

"Carpe Noctem" by Tempting Tragedy (Hard Rock band from New Brunswick, Canada (CA))

"Carpe Noctem" by the cleverly dubbed powerhouse Tempting Tragedy is an electrifying and intense hard rock album! Guitar hooks, guitar hooks and more guitar hooks! – Every song on "Carpe Noctem" is impossible to forget because of their creative guitar leads and riffs! Demanding vocals also draw listeners in. "Mr. Hyde" shows of Tempting Tradgedy's trademark use of synthesized sounds and low, hypnotic vocals. The up-tempo "Good Day to Die" flaunts incredible drum skill and demonstrates the overall tight sound of the band. Lyrically, this CD tackles real and sometimes dark issues in a soul-searching and thought-provoking light. Solid production puts the cap on this dynamic collection. Fans of Drowning Pool and Korn will find a satisfying alternative in this captivating new hard-rock collection!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy)
 
 
 
 

Taryn Cross's Self-Titled Debut (Country artist from Washington (WA))

The self-titled debut of the beautiful Taryn Cross is a soulful country collection that will leave music-lovers hungry for more! Kicking off with the edgy "I Can Break My Own Heart," Taryn wastes no time in showing off her sultry, powerful, and dynamic vocals! One of the most attractive appeals of Taryn is her diversity. Country fans will find everything lovely on this CD – modern country-pop, country with a rock edge, traditional country, and heavenly ballads. "Sunday Best" takes on a spiffy rock edge and tackles the hard-hitting theme of hypocrisy with effortless lyrical skill. Moving along across the spectrum, Taryn draws listeners in with her heart-grasping ballad entitled "My Pearls". One thing's for sure, Taryn's as talented as the biggest names in modern country! Fans of LeeAnn Rhimes, Faith Hill, and Carrie Underwood will find a new obsession in this amazing new talent!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 
 

"Dark Corners" by Rick Rutti (Easy-Listening Artist from California (CA))

Venture into Rick Rutti's "Dark Corners" and you'll find an ear-pleasing collection of easy listening hits! Above all the amazing instrumentation and musical arrangements stands Rick's vibrant and powerful vocals. "The Next Pretty Face" shows off all aspects of Rick's skillful songwriting – memorable and relevant lyrics, catchy choruses, and great instrumental hooks. The harpsichord intro of "The Very Last Seat" is intense and mesmerizing, and sets the perfect mood for this emotional ballad. Furthermore, this song uses creative sounds that mirror its crafty lyrics. Throughout this entire CD, Rick displays great musical and vocal diversity, as demonstrated by the especially unforgettable, rock-infused "So Much for Words." Wrapping things up on "Dark Corners" is remarkable production that asserts the perfect tone and mood on every song! Followers of Elton John will enjoy this excellent CD!
-Xavier P. (for RadioIndy.com)
 
 
 
 

"Kalh Orexh" by Mavri Magioneza (Rock band from Greece (GR))

Rock fans, get ready to jump up and down to the energized new sounds of "Kalh Orexh" ("Enjoy Your Meal") by the electrifying Mavri Magioneza (Black Mayonnaise)! Brewing up an exciting mix of rock and electronica, Mavri Magioneza achieves an unforgettable new sound. "Junk Food (4 Thought)" demonstrates their tactical placement of the perfect electronic elements, which really gives these rock songs more body and personality! Hooks form the foundation of every song on "Kalh Orexh." Overdriven, grinding electric guitars are the staples of this CD. "Syn8hma" shows off this band's amazing instrumentation while introducing some sweet electric solos! "Kinhsh Mat" flaunts a hard-hitting drum arrangement and awesome synthesizers. Moreover, a blend of edgy and smooth vocal tones makes these vocal performances very enticing! Lyrically, "Kalh Orexh" tackles political issues, everyday life, and closely follows a theme of relating who we are to what we eat or intake from the world around us. Polished to a brilliant finish with professional production, this is one CD that every rock addict must have!
-Xavier P. and RadioIndy.com