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Eric and the Blues Band

Valerie — Sun, 23 Dec 2012 14:01:58 +0000

Eric and the Blues Band isn’t really as straight up as you would want them to be. For one, there is no one in the band named Eric and the group rarely plays straight blues. On their Facebook page, they mention that “Eric” is a fictitious persona created by Nick to “hide behind to protect himself from his mounds of tax troubles, and paternity suits. By naming the rest of the guys “The Blues Band”, Nick created an environment where he can fire anyone at any time, for no reason at all, and still keep the same name!”

It’s cheeky story but nonetheless, doesn’t interfere with the fact that the band features some seriously catchy blues pop rock in this record.

With a witty touch, the album�flourishes�with gorgeous rhythm and catchy beats. Opening single Get Me My Sweater, is one of the more blues inspired cuts in the album. Featuring great guitar work, the song starts off mellow before transitioning into a full-on blues rock fest.

Second track, The Postman, is a personal favorite. Armed with cheeky lyrics and a summer pop rock sound, the song is fun to listen to.�On the other hand, Sally, explores the band’s midtempo groovy side while Ethanol Girl, takes it up even slower with complete vocal blends and harmonies that complement the instruments beautifully.

This self-titled debut certainly contains enough charm and wit to entertain. More than that, the instrument work and catchiness of the tracks are top notch; making this a great record to have on your player. Check it out and see if you feel the love for this one as well.

Turn off your television

Valerie — Thu, 15 Nov 2012 14:01:06 +0000

Turn Off Your Television lives up to their name. Everytime you listen to their songs, they do want to make you turn off your television or simply tune out from all the hustle and bustle of your life to relax and enjoy some great quiet folk pop rock music.

This Swedish trio’s sound is everything you need if you find yourself stressed and want something to soothe your overworked nerves.

What’s even better is that the boys offer up 12 awesome tracks all for free. It’s quite a treat considering that the entire album provides one great track after another.

When it comes to their sound, Turn Off Your Television knows how to win over listeners. Thanks to their skillful fusion of melodic guitars and beautiful harmonies; you’d think that their sound is a part of nature’s orchestra.

Opening single, I Just Cleaned The Floor, is a catchy little ditty that incorporates subtle guitar plucking and a countryside folk feel. It’s what you would be playing if you were hanging out by the riverside somewhere enjoying the light morning sunshine. My Satellites, meanwhile, is the longest song on the album at five plus minutes. Favoring a slower 70s rock vibe for this one, the cut would be in comfortable shoes if it was released during the era. Meanwhile, Here Comes The Clouds, is a nice, slightly brooding, indie rock song while A Different Kind of Joy, feels like a 90s pop rock song.

Perhaps that’s why Turn Off Your Television is such an endearing band; there’s a little bit of something for everyone. Whether you’re fan of folk, indie rock or 90s/70s music; it’s easy to see a bit of that in this album. Grabbing this one will be worth it, for sure. You can head on over to their BandCamp page for the download and also make sure to check out their singles and other compilations.

Jess Penner: Growing in the Cold

Valerie — Wed, 11 Jul 2012 13:04:37 +0000

Jess Penner is a talented singer/songwriter that has been winning raves for her beautiful voice and sound.

Based in LA, Growing in the Cold is the singer’s latest compilation. It follows the successful release of her debut album, Love, Love, Love. Since her initial offering, her music has been featured on various TV shows, movies as well as commercial campaigns.

Armed with a guitar and her sweet, sometimes quirky vocals; her music is lighthearted and filled with great melody that easily charms.

On her Facebook page, she’s described as, “cheerful and cheeky, creatively ADD artist from Los Angeles… Jess is also a dinner party throwing, hen raising, people loving, thrift store shopping, self professed tomboy who hates musicals and tilapia but secretly loves painfully slow BBC miniseries and booty dancing alone in her bedroom. “

The singer’s carefree spirit shows beautifully in her songs, most of which are easy-listening acoustic pop gems minus the autotune. Opening her compilation is Let Go, a breezy pop single that makes full use of Penner’s sweet girly vocals and penchant for uplifting melodies. If you listen closely, you’ll notice a slight Regina Spektor vibe in her voice that just adds to the whimsical feel. Tracks like Everywhere I Go and Life is Rosy, has a familiar vibe to it. They also come with an uptempo beat and positive lyrics.

On the other hand, The Lucky One is a slower single that showcases the artists’ more serious side. Her voice sounds like teenager that’s wise beyond her years.

Jess Penner’s songs resonate with the energy of life. They’re the perfect soundtrack to special moments, whether it’s your first kiss; the moment you get married, have a child or simply realize that everything will work out. Her simple but meaningful words as well as laid back sound makes her easy to appreciate as a musician.

Growing in the Cold is a record that’s full of sunshine, hope, happiness and good times. Take time to download it, all she asks is for your email in return. It’s a pretty good bargain if you ask me. Enjoy!

Chris Koza: The Dark, Delirious Morning

Mona — Mon, 28 May 2012 13:01:14 +0000

Chris Koza’s The Dark, Delirious Morning should be what the sea is to summer, or flowers are to spring: a landmark release.

Based in Minneapolis, Chris Koza is an enviable singer/songwriter with three albums that never turned mediocre. Either a solo artist, a duo with longtime guitar player Peter Sieve, or with his band Rogue Valley (which had its own special appearance on FrostClick), Koza steps into the spotlight fully-loaded with precise craftsmanship and talent.

Released last June 2008 together with his fellow band mates, this album offers twelve tracks that place their roots on the folk Americana tradition.

Title track The Dark, Delirious Morning opens with a purely folk aesthetic. Playful guitar strings perfectly kicks off as it illuminates the overall mood of the album.

Making use of the piano as a key player to this song, With or Without showcase the band’s knack for detailed instrumentation. The Avalon, on the other hand, steps out of the shadow with perfectly rendered and infectious melodies.

Tracks such as Adjust, Pilot Light, and Belmont Stakes showcase Koza’s strong emphasis on poetic and lyrical verses.

Over the Clouds, Under the Weather seals the album with a slow and sweet ballad. Glowing piano keys add a subtle texture to the whole track.

Overall, The Dark, Delirious Morning is a clever album with solid tracks that establishes a distinct brand for Koza and his band.

So download, press play, and enjoy folk music at its finest!

Kristin Diable & The City: Kristin Diable & The City

Valerie — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 14:01:39 +0000

From the strong vocals that welcome you in God’s Chambers, you’ll instantly realize that Kristin Diable has definitely got something up their sleeves.

Originally from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the strong voiced singer left her hometown to try out her luck in the big city. She moved to New York City for a good long while before deciding to make New Orleans her new home in 2009.

Kristin Diable & The City is her latest album. It features 12 tracks recorded live in her apartment to help capture the beauty of the moment and add great sincerity to the sound.

This isn’t the first major release for the singer, in fact, her history goes back much longer as she self-released her debut album, Shelter at only 21. These were then followed by a few other albums as well as several singles.

When asked about this latest record, the artist shares that “this album was recorded in our loft apartment in the historic Upper Pontalba building, overlooking Saint Louis Cathedral and the mighty Mississippi River in the heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter. From our vantage point atop this ever-enigmatic corner of the world, we make this note on life and times: the City. The core of these songs was tracked live in an attempt to capture the integrity of spirit that arises when music is played in a room where the focal point is the joy of the moment, nothing less or more. Music, at its very best, is truth.”

Exuding a blues, folk vibe; the album is a great piece of compilation to have if you ever need to relax and enjoy. Kaitlin’s voice is powerful and expressive, adding a great depth of emotions to her lyrics. When she sings quiet songs like My River, and Accidents, her vocals are given great emphasis. Her songs resonate with a laid-back country charm that makes it so easy to listen to and love.

The artist has shared the stage with fellow musicians John Mayer, Norah Jones, John Legend among others. She’s currently set to perform at various venues around New Orleans and NYC too. If you happen to be in the area and love her sound, you can check out her website for the dates and venues. In the meantime, treat yourself to this wonderful album. You won’t regret it.

Carsie Blanton: Buoy

Mona — Thu, 16 Feb 2012 14:01:01 +0000

There’s no missing the artistic talent underlying Carsie Blanton‘s follow-up album, Buoy.

Originally planned as two five-track EPs, the project evolved into a full-blown nine-song catalog that was released July 22, 2009.

Based in Philapadelphia, PA, Carsie Blanton is a singer/songwriter who have already toured with Paul Simon, the Wood Brothers, the Weepies and Joan Osborne. She is known for her uncanny lines and tasty American pop tracks. Currently, she has released her latest album Idiot Heart.

The collection hits off with Buoy, a perfect title track adorned with hand-clapping rhythms and a sunny vibe. With just a catchy and simple melody, Carsie’s natural vocal talent shines through.

Itches and Tugs takes the soulful avenue washed with feel-good drum beats and guitar strings. The self-penned lyrics are too clever to be left unnoticed, they’re simple yet paint an irony of sweetness and pain.

Responding with much more sheen, Money in the Bank explores on first kisses and one night stands. I loved how the track evokes such a flirty vibe transporting the listener to their wild free days.

Crazy for Love exudes an emotional clarity. Accompanied with a piano, this track is remarkably slower than the others. What I like about this piece is how it seals up the definition of love. Here, Carsie takes love to another level — from a more personal experience to a general one. It’s a good thing for an artist to stretch her subject matter in order for the songs to grow on its own.

Carsie Blanton is in a league of her own. Her explorations of love and guilty pleasures produce tracks that are highly addictive; you can’t even point out which are your favorites.

All in all, Buoy is a satisfying album that will make you remember love in its purest sense.

Big Wilson River: Octopus Album

Christie — Thu, 15 Dec 2011 15:01:57 +0000

At first listen Big Wilson River’s Octopus Album packs a jarring punch. After adjusting to a somewhat stylistically predictable album, which is best described as a jerky and frantic folk/rock hybrid, a zealous melody and original narrative begins to merge.

Powerful instrumentals are aided by forceful lead singer Darrin Bradbury who at times dominates the vocals with a strained shout. Despite, he is paired with Emma McLaughlin who has a soft yet strong voice, something similar to the enticing and hypnotic effect of Adele.

The first track, Eighty Dead Armadillos is an action packed jam with a clever character to it – I dare you to not head bang along with catchy tune. A favorite is Gypsy Song, where a mesmerizing waltz features the soothing vocals of McLaughlin, luring the listener to involuntarily sway with the beat. Still, Gypsy Song is interrupted by a repetitious chorus of screaming vocals “God, I’m so tired,” a transition that is in no way smooth are considerate to the listener! The lyrics are strikingly playful and artful; take for example in Hemmingway Had a Cat: “Hemmingway had a cat, Hemmingway blew off his head. I have a cat, but I still have my head.”

Octopus by Big Wilson River

Track 4, Backyard Passout has an almost romantic narrative, that is until the guitar and bass crescendo into a frantic and passionate finale with more screaming. Perhaps “passionate” is the best way to describe Big Wilson River’s Octopus – it certainly does not lack passion; it’s just a matter of toning down a mix of sometimes severe vocals with a raucous accompaniment. The album is certainly energetic and unique – it offers a new approach to Americana, you might call it a sort of urban folk mythology. Give it a listen!

The Freak Fandango Orchestra: Tales Of A Dead Fish

Valerie — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 15:01:13 +0000

Making their second appearance here on FrostClick, the gypsy folk, Barcelona band is back with a new record.

The Freak Fandango Orchestra is an energetic and quirky bunch of musicians who like to play fun and unusual music.

Their first record Love, Death and a Drunken Monkey was entertaining and came doused with beautiful instrument work and amusing lyrics. For their latest release, Tales of a Dead Fish, they retain their crazy upbeat sound, still incorporating humor, superb instrument work and a very catchy beat to every single one of their cuts.

Mixing gypsy, folk, punk rock and polka, The Freak Fandango Orchestra will definitely capture your attention whether you like it or not.

The record opens with Requiem for a Fish, a jaunty track that has saxophones blaring, occasional chanting and some serious catchy tune. It starts off things nicely with its uptempo sound, making you want to stand up, grab a partner and start dancing for no reason. Almost all of the songs have this same infectious beat. Third track, Balkan Beats, seems a great fit for The Mask to dance along to and do all his stunts. There’s a whole layer of instrument work that beautifully merges with the lyrics.

Royalty Free Music – Stock Music Library | Jamendo PRO

Meanwhile, Hitman’s Love Song (both the last track and the one featuring Paola) combines distinctive vocals with a nice semi-laid-back beat. It’s probably the “slowest” song on the record yet it’s something you can imagine Charlie Chaplin still prancing around to.

Tales of a Dead Fish is a great album. It’s hard not to fall for the music, whether you’re into this kind of sound or not, since it manages to give you that feel-good feeling. Perfect for fans of Gogol Bordello. It’s a genuinely fun album to check out.

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Dylan Pratt: Lifters & Leaners

Valerie — Sun, 04 Dec 2011 15:01:34 +0000

It’s always exciting to stumble upon a record that you know will be a part of your daily music routine for a long while. Dylan Pratt and his album, Lifters & Leaners, is one of those records.

The album is a first for the singer/songwriter. Armed with an acoustic guitar, a soft and melodic voice along with beautiful lyrics; the album is the perfect capper after a long hard day at work. It also features quite a few guest musicians helping him complete the songs.

Much of the record is composed of sweet, acoustic classic folk. So expect this album to be your perfect companion on dreary days, when all you want to do is cuddle in the comfort of your bed or maybe stay-in and enjoy a quiet evening.

Dylan Pratt proves that sometimes all you need is a guitar, good lyrics and a voice to create lovely music. Lifters & Leaners takes a stripped down approach to songmaking. Almost all of the tracks exude an acoustic sound with a few actually plugging in and employing electric guitars.

Although the artist impresses with his upbeat indie rock tracks like, Soap Box and Beasties; he excels in his quiet singles best. Fall Awake has that country folk vibe reminiscent of Dan Fogelberg or most 60s/70s classic folk artist. Another track, Peace Will Never Come, is as simple as it can get. Pratt has a knack for accompanying beautiful melodic guitar playing with endearing lyrics. His expressive voice lends sincerity to the words he sings which is quite important for most folk songs like this.

Meanwhile, title track, Lifters & Leaners also exhibit this gorgeous relaxing folk sound. This last song balances with the upbeat opener and leaves listeners with a nice remembrance of the record while at the same time urging them to listen to it again soon.

Dylan Pratt definitely has his niche covered. The album features good recording with snippets of raw, even DIY quality here and there. This just adds to the candor and appeal of the record. It’s a compilation worth checking out especially for folk lovers everywhere.

You Me and Apollo: Cards with Cheats

Valerie — Sat, 19 Nov 2011 15:01:24 +0000

For moments when all you need is a sweet voiced singer with his guitar serenading your quiet afternoon; You Me and Apollo should make for a really good company.

The guy behind this sonic ensemble is Brent Cowles. A pastor’s son from Fort Collins, Cowles started writing and creating songs at the age of 14. Thanks to an early start, he developed a beautiful sound that resonates with both quiet and upbeat tempos, mesmerizing vocal work and skillful guitars.

Simplicity and intrigue are both present in his work, something that makes you want to tune out the world and simply tune in to his songs.

There are times when all you need is to listen to the first 20-30 seconds of a song to realize that you have a worthwhile record in front you. Most people who discover You Me and Apollo for the first time often wonder how come they’ve never heard of him before. His music is one of those things that enchant you upon first encounter. Cowles’ sweet and expressive growls and coos are just one part of the equation but it plays a big part on what draws you to him.

From the onset, the appropriately titled Opener, greets you with Cowles soothing vocals. Between the semi-falsettos and soft guitar strumming, he welcomes listeners to Cards with Cheats, convincing them to stay around and listen a bit more. Continuing on with A Pearl, the song is an upbeat country-style indie pop. In certain instances, the artists’ voice reminds me of Damien Rice, only more upbeat and less melodramatic. Again, his voice takes center stage but his lyrical capabilities also shine through beautifully.

Although the entire album is really worth a listen, some of my personal favorites include Oh Brother and the Johnny Cash sounding, The Devil Inside. Both songs are acoustic tracks that highlights Cowles sincerity and capacity to communicate his thoughts through his words.

Cards with Cheats is a winner for me. It’s an album worth having for anyone who loves acoustic folk with a very distinct rock touch. When listening to Cards with Cheats you’ll realize that there are still plenty of wonderful recording gems lurking around and just waiting to be found.

The download is available over at BandCamp for free but you can also choose to buy it and help out the singer by popping over $8 through his label River Jones Music.