Category: Artist of the Week

Artist to Watch: Amber Rubarth

Post author By admin
Post date April 22, 2010
2 Comments on Artist to Watch: Amber Rubarth

Photo Credit: Wendy Hu

During Amber Rubarth‘s first night back in New York after touring Japan, she invited several friends to share the stage. Performing for nearly 90 minutes, Rubarth’s girl next door charm and witty, emotion-filled vocals captivated all at the newly opened Stage 2 at Rockwood Music Hall.

Being familiar with the New York music scene, I quickly realized how close knit the singer-songwriter crowd is. Having interviewed numerous New York musicians, Amber Rubarth’s name has come up on several occasions as a source of inspiration. I quickly realized why last Friday.

Rubarth kicked off the night with the moving “In the Creases.” With oboe accompaniment and her comforting vocals, the room stood still. Throughout the night musician friends took the stage to provide backing vocals, piano and guitar accompaniment or perform tracks of their own.

The rustic country-esque “This Is Real” showcased Rubarth and Peter Bradley Adams on vocals and Tony Maceli on bass while jazzy ballad “Full Moon In Paris” introduced Ian Axel on piano. French songstress Julie Peel took the stage for “Song to Thank the Stars,” a track Rubarth joked about writing in France. “It’s a lot harder to write a love song than a breakup song. So I only have one,” she said.

Before crowd favorite Ari Hest took the stage, Rubarth concluded, “It’s more like a party than a show tonight.” And that it was. The audience, mostly filled with fellow musicians, didn’t seem to mind.

Debuting her newest song, “Letter From My Lonelier Self,” alone on guitar, Rubarth reminded everyone why they were there. With moving lyrics, “You’ll hear the answers if you listen/When it’s love don’t wait to say what it is/And don’t trade love for an aimless embrace of the wind/Please don’t lose your love like I did,” and her wavering vocals, the song struck a chord.

Original tracks “Pilot,” written with Nate Campany, “Good Mystery,” “Edge of My Seat” and the award winning “Washing Day,” co-written with Adam Levy, rounded out the set with additional guest appearances. Ian Axel, Greg Holden and Ari Hest performed a few songs of their own before Rubarth and Hest closed the night with a cover of Tom Waits’ “Hold On.”

While Rubarth’s touring schedule takes her to Europe next month, New York fans will be relieved to know Rockwood remains her favorite venue. “This is the greatest place I’ve ever been. Hands down. Expanded it’s more beautiful then I ever imagined,” she said.

Fellow singer-songwriter Nate Campany summed up the night. “Amber is a rare talent and we’re all lucky to have her as a friend and inspiration.”

For the latest tour dates and music, be sure to visit Amber Rubarth on MySpace.

Tags Amber Rubarth, Listen, singer-songwriter

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: Ari Hest

Post author By admin
Post date April 19, 2010
1 Comment on Artist of the Week: Ari Hest

There is nothing I enjoy more than going to a concert and discovering new music. This past Friday, I attended Amber Rubarth’s show at Rockwood Music Hall (review to come soon) and walked away with a list of several new artists to showcase. One singer in particular was Ari Hest. With deep vocals that bring resemblance to Mat Kearney, he captivated all in attendance while onstage.

Piano centered tracks like “Avalanche” accompany Hest’s vocals beautifully. The piano never overpowers, and instead assists Hest’s voice to soar in the perfect direction. “Stalking the Moon” continue to showcase his raspy vocals with light guitar picking. Throughout each song, it is the lyrics that truly move the listener. Accompanied with fitting melodies, Hest’s descriptive lyrics transfer impeccably with his emotional vocals.

Ari Hest’s tracks on MySpace don’t do him justice, so I’ve included a few live performance videos below. For more, be sure to check out his Web site.

“Sleep Tonight”

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GGZErB3eiNU]

“Broken Voices”

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-xahwn1C7Bw]

“I’ve Got You”

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1J5N1FTwHk]

“When and If”

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hsK401AWZ8]

Recommended: For fans of Mat Kearney, Tyrone Wells, Jack Johnson.

Tags Ari Hest, Listen, singer-songwriter

Artist of the Week

Meet Danny Gokey

Some of you may recognize Danny Gokey as third-place finalist from season 8 of American Idol. Since Idol, Gokey has gone on to sign a record deal with Sony Music Nashville and released his debut album, My Best Days earlier this month. With current single, “My Best Days Are Ahead of Me” climbing the country charts and a summer tour with Sugarland and Jake Owen in the works, he is well on his way.

Gokey recently sat down with Walmart Soundcheck and filled them in on his first single, dealing with his wife’s death and his love of music.

“I think music, whether I write it or not, always makes a connection. Music is a universal language that everyone speaks. Music has formed humanity. In every culture there is music. Music can make you feel different emotions at different times and I think that’s the power and connection of music. Whether I write it or not, I connect with the music and I try to make people feel what I feel when I’m singing,” he said.

Learn about Gokey’s debut album below and for the complete interview where he talks of stage fright, American Idol and why he sees his music as a movement click here.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vkuvRgJCWlA]

Currently one of my favorite country music videos, watch “My Best Days Are Ahead Of Me” below. Pay close attention the quotes.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qqus079lUz8]

Tags American Idol, country, Danny Gokey, New Artist

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: Griffin Anthony

Post author By admin
Post date February 16, 2010

If Griffin Anthony‘s debut full-length, Crazy Ways, is any indication of his staying power, there is no doubt we’ll be hearing more from this singer-songwriter in the upcoming months. While he refers to his music as “Acoustic SouP,” or an intriguing blend of soul and pop, traces of jazz and blues influence can also be heard.

Recorded in Miami, Nashville and New York alongside Grammy-winning engineer, Charles Dye (Ricky Martin, J-Lo), Crazy Ways has been garnering attention by music fans, critics and label executives. It can’t hurt that he has shared the stage with notable musicians including James Taylor, David Cook, Gin Blossoms, Citizen Cope, Matt Nathanson, The Steve Miller Band, Erin McCarley and more.

The New York-based singer-songwriter brings to mind early Gavin DeGraw and Jack Johnson with his soft vocals and light guitar strumming. Anthony’s blues inspired melodies and captivating voice intrigue the listener. Whether he’s telling a girl to move on throughout “Let Go” (“Let go/Get up and go and snip the chord to the anchor that binds you”) or confirming “It’s not me it’s you” on “Be Honest,” he gets his point across.

Tracks like “Hurry Up” are sultry and seductive with slow percussion giving the song a jazzy feel while “Be Honest” has an instrumental interlude bringing to mind a jam band. The title track switches gears with a slow rap feature that is reminiscent to that of Jason Mraz. Always offering listeners something new, Anthony impresses on his full-length release.

Crazy Ways has much versatility throughout. Whether he’s singing of new love or questioning life, Griffin Anthony provides much light. Watch his performance of “Sleepy Sunday” below and for more, be sure to visit him on MySpace.

[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MH_sJvIFXkY]

Recommended: For fans of Jack Johnson, Gavin DeGraw, Jason Mraz.

Tags Griffin Anthony, Listen, New Artist

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: Justin James

Post author By admin
Post date February 1, 2010

Not everyone has a near death experience and is given a second chance. However, this is the case for California-based singer-songwriter Justin James. After an encounter with a tiger shark left him bleeding to death on a South American beach, multiple blood transfusions and hundreds of stitches later, James found himself bedridden for a long year of recovery. Lucky to be alive, but understandably frustrated, an acoustic guitar gifted to him by his grandmother helped revive James’ longing for life, surf and music.

Definitely a life changing event, the encounter refocused his outlook on life. “It’s crazy to digest,” he writes on his Web site. “That’s why I spend my life now chasing what I love the most: traveling, surfing and playing music.”

Listeners can hear this passion on his latest release, Perfect Sometimes. Produced by Andrew Williams (Five for Fighting) and Mikal Blue (Colbie Callait, One Republic), Perfect Sometimes is a stand out release that one can find himself listening to for hours on repeat. While his easy-going and effortless singing style begs comparisons to that of Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz and fellow California songstress Colbie Caillat, his music has been making a distinct impact on its own. Hit single, “California” earned James a “Best Male Vocalist” nod at the 2007 Los Angeles Music Awards which eventually brought him to Japan, where it peaked at number 5 on the Top 40 chart.

The laid-back title track, “Perfect Sometimes,” kicks off the 11-song release. Featuring ukulele legend Jake Shimabukuro, the listener is taken on a journey with James’ accompanying soothing vocals. While his delicate guitar picking is reminiscent to Jack Johnson, it is his vivid lyrical description that transforms the listener to a tropical island complete with an orange tree, sun and sand. Not always an easy feat for a singer, the listener can actually picture himself at the beach – feet in the sand and the ocean waves reverberating in his ears.

What is perhaps most striking of the album is that James’ voice is so relaxing and comforting, making it easy for one to get lost in the music. Singing of love, hope and heartache, his stories are moving and relatable while each track segues effortlessly into the next.

On “Deeper Waters” James sings of a former love and not wanting to see her “with another man.” Trying to find solace, James sings, “Just remember how our story starts/Even when the lights are dark/Even when we’re worlds apart/Even when you’re falling hard/ There’s deeper waters/Even when you’re feeling lost/And the rain is falling soft/Even when you’re hanging on/There’s deeper waters.” With light piano, percussion and James’ poignant vocals this is just one of the many stand out ballads featured on Perfect Sometimes.

“Missed Again” picks up speed after “Deeper Waters.” His lyrics are incredibly honest, the listener easily feeling the emotion throughout the track. With more upbeat guitar accompaniment and percussion, it’s easy to picture James in a concert setting.

Songs like “You Don’t Know Me” talk of long distance love, which tends to be a theme throughout Perfect Sometimes. “Know that I’ve been gone for so long/But you can never get left behind/Far from you but you’re in my heart/You will be through in time/Find some trust/Let’s hope that you believed in us/You think you know it all/I need you to believe in me,” he sings.

“Moonlight” switches gears and sounds like a classic song that could have been sung by the older greats like Frank Sinatra or Dean Martin. A more mature feel, James sings, “Surrender to moonlight tonight/Your eyes tempt me gently to your side.” With soaring string accompaniment, “Moonlight” is one of the album’s hidden gems.

One of the last tracks on Perfect Sometimes, James sings, “All I want to be is forever free/Running with the wind,” on “Running With the Wind.” Singing in a deeper voice than heard on previous tracks, the emotional ballad proves James’ staying power. Such a versatile release, Perfect Sometimes is sure to bring the California surfer plenty of years catching waves on the music scene.

Tags Justin James, Listen, New Artist

Artist of the Week

Artist to Watch: Laura Bell Bundy

Post author By admin
Post date January 27, 2010
2 Comments on Artist to Watch: Laura Bell Bundy

She’s starred in numerous television series and movies as well as acted in on and off Broadway musicals including Legally Blonde, where she was nominated for a Tony Award for her role as Elle Woods. Going back to her love and passion for music, Laura Bell Bundy is releasing Achin’ and Shakin’ and has country fans and critics raving.

A concept album, Achin’ and Shakin’ is two separate albums within one project. Achin’ is a collection of slow and sultry country songs while Shakin’ is a group of sassy songs that are equal parts humor, confidence and attitude.

“I have two different sides of my personality,” she explains. “I have a crazy, wild, humorous, outspoken personality, and then I have a depth that only opens up when I am alone or with one other person, and that is captured with this album. I really couldn’t do one without the other.”

The first single off Achin’ and Shakin, “Giddy On Up” is just a taste of what’s to come for the singer-songwriter. Her first music video, “Giddy On Up” is an entertaining, choreographed tale about a cheating lover. Having already earned comparisons as the Katy Perry of country music, I’m interested to see what the future holds for this country songstress.

Watch the video for “Giddy On Up” below. For more on Laura Bell Bundy, visit her Web site.

Laura Bell Bundy

More CMT Music

More CMT Music Videos

Tags country, Laura Bell Bundy, Listen, Nashville, New Artist

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: Michael Nappi

Post author By admin
Post date January 12, 2010
1 Comment on Artist of the Week: Michael Nappi

At first listen, it never would have occurred to me that Here We Go Again was Michael Nappi‘s debut album. Incredibly well produced, the album encompasses 13 versatile and radio friendly tracks. Recorded with producer/songwriter Steve Buonanotte and mixed by Grammy Award-winning mix engineer, Jeff Juliano (John Mayer, Jason Mraz, Dave Matthews Band), Here We Go Again is a solid debut release. One can only wonder when Nappi will rightfully explode on the music scene.

Nappi’s passion for music began at an early age with his introduction to his father’s vintage LPs that included The Beatles, Johnny Cash and Elvis. While in fourth-grade, he picked up trumpet and could frequently be found serenading his neighbors from his porch. As a teen, Nappi composed, recorded and performed his music locally.

Of performing, Nappi says, “Whether it’s been to five people slung over their bar stools or to sold out crowds in 5,000-seat theaters, I’ve always considered it a privilege to work as a musician.”

Whether he’s talking about broken promises and failed relationships in “7:26,” or infatuation on “Disturbed,” his singing intrigues the listener. A mix of acoustic ballads and more energetic rock numbers, one thing is certain: Nappi’s memorable melodies won’t leave your head.

While his singing style is reminiscent to that of Train’s Pat Monahan, it’s his versatility that impresses most. Here We Go Again was created from a collection of personal stories and, as a result, encompasses introspective and relatable lyrics. On first single, the catchy and haunting “7:26,” Nappi sings: “Every drop of rain/Has a story to be told/Before it hits the ground/Giving up and letting go.”

With more of an upbeat, electronic beat “Save the Night In a Bottle” hints at the grandeur ambiance of U2. Begging resemblance to U2’s “Magnificent,” the listener can practically envision Nappi sharing the stage with Bono.

The production quality on Here We Go Again is impressive and Nappi continues to surprise the listener on each track. “Perfectly Clear” features deeper vocals from Nappi with soaring guitar interludes and spot on percussion accompaniment while “Limousine” is a fun party number inviting a girl to “take a ride in my limousine.” With a debut release this good, Nappi’s “Limousine” dream may become reality.

For more on Michael Nappi, visit him on MySpace.

Recommended: For fans of Train, Better Than Ezra, U2.

Tags Listen, Michael Nappi, New Artist, singer-songwriter

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: Akiva

Post author By admin
Post date December 7, 2009

Long Island based singer-songwriter Akiva has a unique and versatile style of music that is showcased well on his third studio album, If I Didn’t Work Nights/The Daylight. The two-disc release features 14 songs ranging from piano infused tracks to folk based ballads bringing to mind popular artists including Gavin DeGraw and Brett Dennen.

Having opened for acts like Rusted Root, Josh Kelley, Toby Lightman and more, Akiva is well on his way. Throughout If I Didn’t Work Nights/The Daylight Akiva displays his comical side on track “Junk In the Trunk” as well as his sensitive lyrics on ballad “Distant Love.”

First single off the album, “I Keep Calling You” has already been picked up by local radio stations. With soulful and sultry vocals and fitting piano accompaniment, Akiva is well on his way. “I keep calling you but you’re not home/And I need to get back into your heart and your home/I’m no good by myself/I’m a mess on my own/Baby girl, you got your point across now pick up the phone,” Akiva sings over horn arrangements.

“Heart In a Bind” isn’t a huge departure from “I Keep Calling You.” With similar piano accompaniment, the added bell and percussion arrangement is the only aspect that differentiates this song from the previous. Perhaps this is what Akiva was going for because next song, “Junk In the Trunk” is a complete surprise. The slow rap like chant of his lyrics and choir component awaken the listener and make him pay close attention to the tale within the song.

“Mississippi” is another striking number. Embodying a certain jazz feel, the song demonstrates Akiva’s willingness to shake things up and differentiate himself from other artists. With delicate fingerpicking on acoustic guitar and banjo as well as light piano accompaniment, the listener is transported to the south. A soulful and laidback number, it is easy to picture Akiva scatting in a jazz club. A much slower track than previous songs on the album, this is a standout number.

Just when the listener thinks he figured Akiva’s music out he is quickly proven wrong. “Figment on the Fringe” is a folk jazz number bringing slight reference to the likes of musical troubadour Brett Dennen. Another highlight on the album is “Distant Love,” a stripped down and intimate song with little musical accompaniment

Second disc, The Daylight represents more energy than If I Didn’t Work Nights. “Headlights Out” has upbeat percussion and electric guitar accompaniment while ballad “You Never Know” embodies fitting percussion rhythm and emotive lyrics of love.

While The Daylight only holds four songs, it might have been a better idea to merge these tracks with the rest of If I Didn’t Work Nights. Not a huge change between both discs, instead of having two separate albums, perhaps a full album and additional EP would have made more sense. Either way, there is enough versatility within each album for the listener. Whether it’s slow ballads or more upbeat jazz features, Akiva demonstrates his promise throughout both. Visit Akiva on MySpace for more.

Recommended: For fans of Gavin DeGraw, Brett Dennen, Jason Mraz.

Tags Akiva, Listen, New Artist

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: David Ryan Harris

Post author By admin
Post date November 30, 2009

A friend and former colleague suggested that I might like David Ryan Harris. So, when I found out he’d be performing at Rockwood Music Hall November 20th, I decided to check him out and was truly blown away. The venue was packed to capacity and a line formed outside with eager concertgoers hoping to gain a coveted spot inside. When they couldn’t, they went next door to watch the show broadcast live via video screen.

Harris is well known for lending his guitar skills and vocals to John Mayer, Dave Matthews and Santana on tour. Perhaps it was only fitting that one of the songs he briefly covered during the night was Mayer’s “Your Body Is a Wonderland.” While he has shared the stage with many notable performers, Harris demonstrated his prowess as a singer-songwriter throughout his set.

With a distinct and soulful flavor, Harris brings to mind classic Motown and R&B; performers. Tracks like “Yesterday Shutting Down” showcased his powerful vocals while “Still Be Loving You,” a moving ballad written for his mother, touches the listener on a more personal level. While performing “Yesterday Shutting Down,” Harris led a slow buildup within the tale of the song before belting, “I wanna move on with the rest of my life.” With appropriate musical accompaniment and groove, the listener couldn’t help but tap his foot along.

“Sweetest Berry” pleased concertgoers as Robbie McIntosh took the stage and wowed the crowd with his impressive guitar chops. Always the versatile musician, tracks like “Slow Train Moving” showcase Harris’ soulful side while “Crocodile Lake” is more of an upbeat jazzy number with fitting percussion and electric guitar.

With simple guitar finger picking and intimate lyrics, “For You” is a beautiful ballad that brings reference to fellow up-and-coming artists like Tyrone Wells and the likes of the more legendary Marvin Gaye. Truly an artist to witness live, Harris’ MySpace doesn’t do him justice. Catch him live and see for yourself.

Recommended: For fans of Marvin Gaye, Tyrone Wells, Usher.

Tags David Ryan Harris, John Mayer, Listen

Artist of the Week

Artist of the Week: Jacob Vanags

Post author By admin
Post date November 23, 2009

Unlike many breaking singer-songwriters, Jacob Vanags‘ weapon of choice is piano. Hailed as a talented piano rocker by some critics, Vanags provides much needed diversity in today’s music scene. Accompanied by strings, horns and percussion on many tracks, it’s his catchy vocals and strokes of the piano that continually stand out.

Jazzy songs like “All That You Have” quickly grab the listener’s attention. Extremely energetic, Vanags’ music is different than anything else out there right now. While the piano-infused “Toss Up” brings to mind that of fellow singer-songwriter-pianist Brendan James, “Stuck” holds slight resemblance to Jason Mraz with his rap-like banter throughout the song.

Additionally, “Antarctica” showcases an eerie string accompaniment and piano feature at first listen. While at times his vocals overpower the track, when paying close attention to the tale within the song, this only seems fitting.

It is no doubt that Vanags attempts to break the mold with his second EP, Pulses are Pluses. In fact, it’s releases like this that are needed to shake up the music scene and introduce something new to music fans and indie lovers everywhere.

Of his EP, Vanags has said, “The title Pulses are Pluses really captures the heart of this EP. I hope the concept of understanding how we all have so much to be positive about in this life, even in the lowliest of times, will really come across with this new, energetic sound.”

I couldn’t agree more.

Recommended: For fans of Death Cab for Cutie, Augustana, Owl City, Brendan James.

Tags Jacob Vanags, Listen, New Artist