Monday mashup 2022 (vol. 3)

Happy spring. Just like the changing of the season, my time with Speedway has come to an end, and I will be starting a new job next week. In the meantime, let’s enjoy these new singles and music videos.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the latest from Blue Elan Records musician Colin Devlin. Given the state of war in the world, this one is particularly timely, although it is a remake of a classic Rusty Young song from the Blue Elan tribute album My Friend. Here’s Devlin’s take on “Regret.”

Our second single is from one of our favorite groups, whom we have featured numerous times in this blog. Not only are they multi-talented musicians, but they are also gifted lyricists and know how to say things that will make you think and take action. Give it up for “Chitter Chatter” from Carly and the Universe.

Next up is the latest from Denver Blues goddess Diana Rein. In times like these, sometimes we just need to “Drift Away.”

Single number four is from one of Los Angeles’ most prolific songwriters, Jen Waters. Her new album, Fate, is being released tomorrow and we are proud to share the title track. Enjoy her wisdom and incredible voice.

Our final single this week is from the incredible indie artist known as John West, who has been Lost in Japan since 2021. He has returned with an admonition to “Slow Down,” and we think that is excellent advice.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

We kick off this week’s music videos with this beautiful and heart-warming song from Canyon City. We love the sentimentality of “Castle,” and encourage you to stop and listen to its message.

Another LA band we have featured extensively in the past is the power duo named Dauzat St. Marie. Their latest lyric video is for their hard-hitting song, “Time to go Home.” We think it is one of their best to date. Let us know what you think.

It seems like it’s not a new week unless we have something new from Ponderosa Grove to share. This band deserves a national spotlight, and their new video for “Changin'” may achieve that for them. Enjoy the beauty of the cinematography and the incredible sound of the voice of lead singer Candace Devine, as well as some of the finest harmonies in music today.

Our next video brings back memories of bands like America and CSNY, with vocal harmonies, folky sensibilities and just plain good fun. We are happy to share “Safe House” by Trout Fishing in America with you. Hard to believe they’ve been performing for 45 years, and this is our first introduction to them. We think you’ll also become an instant fan.

We close out this week with the premiere of the latest lyric video from Life.Church Worship, the place I called my church home when we lived in Oklahoma. Their latest is called “Grace Upon Grace,” and is one of the strongest songs they have written. Let the calmness of the Lord wash over you as you listen to the words.

Monday mashup 2022 (vol. 2)

It’s almost spring, and amazing new music continues to burst forth in this beautiful post-Covid time of reconnecting to the rest of the world. We have some amazing tunes for you this week, so let’s get started.

NEW SINGLES

First up this week is the latest from the multi-talented band called Ponderosa Grove. Not only are they creating great music, but their lead vocalist, Candace Devine, is producing the Pure Imagination Festival in their hometown of Prescott, Arizona. They just added the legendary Wynonna to their already amazing lineup. The music of Ponderosa Grove is so refreshing and we really think their latest, “Changin,'” will become your theme song. Give it up for them.

Next up are two sisters from Nashville that call themselves American Blonde. Their music is radio ready and their latest, “Blackwater Creek,” is the perfect vehicle to truly launch them into the mainstream. Watch for these guys to take country radio by storm with their brilliant storytelling and pitch-perfect harmonies.

Jackie Lee McLean may be the daughter of a legendary American musical icon, but she has earned her place in the industry through self-reflection, strong relatable lyrics and memorable musical compositions that connect her to the rest of the world. On stage she goes by Roan Yellowthorn, and her latest single, “One Tear at a Time,” is a remake of the classic Rusty Young (Poco) tune for a special Blue Elan Records project honoring Young’s music. Check out the entire album.

MILCK has become the voice of empowerment for women around the world, and her latest, “Power,” is further proof of his place as the Queen of Empowerment.” Bow down before her majesty and rise up into a great new beginning.

Our final single this week reminds us of the power duo of Carrie Underwood and Miranda Lambert. This song will leave you laughing and crying at the same time, as Julia Cole and Alexandra Kay tell us about the “Best Worst Ex.” It’s no wonder Tim McGraw chose Kay to open up his next tour. Catch them in concert this summer.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Our first music video this week is a heartwarming and uplifting country tune from Bryan Lanning, who extols the value of letting your children grow up at their own pace. We think “Let ‘Em Grow” will become a theme song and source of inspiration for new parents.

Next up is the latest lyric video from Canadian band Ellevator, who we have featured before. We love the driving beat and the powerful lyrics of “Sacred Heart” and think you will too. Enjoy the latest from this stellar group.

Our third video features Canadian R&B artist Myles Lloyd in a powerfully moving video about living life called “Down Under.” This one is worthy of your attention.

Paloma is a 14-year old phenom whose music shows maturity way past her years. Listen carefully to the words of her latest, “Momma,” and we think you will see the future of music.

Our final video this week is a bluesy classic from Sandy Haley with a message that should resonate with women all over the world, “Love me Right or Cut me Loose.” Man up and heed the message.

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 31)

It’s been a crazy month in the retail business, and we apologize for not bringing our weekly column. We hope this special “video only” play list will make it up to you. Check out these amazing videos.

In case you didn’t hear the big announcement, Indie Voice Blog has launched the Indie Voice Music Critic Awards. You can get details by clicking here.

First up is a throwback video with some serious 60s/70s vibes from our favorite Oklahoma couple, The Imaginaries, who are currently on tour. “You Already Know” is authentically staged with a sound that will last for generations, and we really dig this one. Let us know what you think.

Next up is one of Nashville’s hottest new acts, the sister duo known as American Blonde. This song should be their breakthrough tune on country radio and we think we’ll be seeing much more of them. It’s very easy to get lost in the “Quicksand” of this one.

Our third video this week highlights that all important of every morning – “Coffee.” Brought to you by the creative minds of Megan Nash & the Best of Intentions, this one requires repeated plays to fully comprehend the ties between the song and the video. Are you up to the challenge?

Are you feeling overwhelmed by this pandemic? Let the words and images of South Africa’s pop queen Cara Frew lift you up out of the quagmire and “Rise.”

Our Canadian friends Ellevator are back with another great tune, which is garnering critical acclaim world-wide. Check out “Charlie IO” and we think you’ll agree – this band deserves a world-wide audience.

We start off our second five with the latest from one of LA’s most unique bands, the amazing husband and wife duo known as Lovers & Poets. Their new song has a great vibe and beautiful lyrics, so check out “Ready to Fall.”

Next up is an acoustical masterpiece from the sweet songbird known as Sonja Midtune. With the timely title of “October,” this one is perfect all year round.

Video number eight is from a voice that has been bringing great music for more than 40 years. Although best known for his duties as the lead singer for America, Gerry Buckley is an accomplished solo artist as well. Thank you to his wonderful label, Blue Elan Records, for this amazing video collaboration.

Speaking of Blue Elan Records, here is the latest video from another of their amazing artists, The Vegabonds. We think it sums up how a lot of us feel today, “Can’t Deal.”

We close out this week’s article with this beautifully done travel video from our New York sweetheart, Katie Costello. She is truly worth all the “Silver & Gold” in the world.

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 23)

As we enter the final week of July, the Olympics are in full swing and indie music is flowing freely. We’ve got some great new songs and music videos for you this week, so let’s get the party started.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week comes from another LA Music Critic Award winner, this time LA’s Constanza Herrero. She relocated to LA from her native South America after winning Best Latin Artist/Band, and we couldn’t be happier. Her latest is another gem, in the form of “I Didn’t Care,” but we know that she really does.

Next up is the latest from San Diego native and now Nashville musical maven Alyssa Jacey. She continues to improve her musical prowess and delivers a stunner with the remix of her song, “Drowning Me.” We are glad that she has overcome and we can’t wait to see what comes next.

LA is home to some very prolific songwriters, and one of our favorites has always been Patricia Bahia. She is an award-winning songwriter who has had multiple placements in television and movies. She is also a collaborator. Her latest collaboration with Betty Lawrence has become the band 7th & Hope, and the product of that union is called “Brand New Day.” Let it inspire you as the new week begins.

Single number four is from Blue Elan Records artist The Vegabonds. These guys always bring it to every song they release and their latest, “Heartache and a Memory,” is no exception. Check them out and let us know what you think.

Our final single this week is from the EP Empty Hearts which was released last Friday by Alexis Keegan. She has been off the radar for a couple of years but is back with an abandon. We love the third song “I’d Rather be Your Girl,” and believe it has what it takes to make it on Top 40 Radio. Let us know if you agree.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

First up this week is the latest video from Adelaine Morin on her 10th anniversary as a YouTube artist. This one has a smooth R&B groove and is highly provocative. Check out “No Sugar.” This one will appeal to all your senses.

It’s very “Easy” to love the latest video from Laurent Bourque. We love the groove and could easily visualize the use of this song in a multitude of placement opportunities. We look forward to hearing what comes next from this sweet artist.

Our third video this week comes from the sweet Americana honey voice of Jenny Shawhan and is truly reflective of her debut album, Don’t be Afraid. Check out this beautiful video for the title track.

Next up is a funny video about trying to find the right “look” for your band. We love the 90’s feel of “Time Will Tell,” and think The Keystones definitely have the chops to find their place on the indie music scene.

Our final video this week comes from the intriguing mind of Jessicka. She shares her somewhat disturbing vision for her song “Mirrorball Midnight,” and leaves us wanting more. Have a great week and we’ll check in with you next month.

Monday mashup 2021 (vol 21)

Happy (observed) Independence Day 2021 and welcome to the new improved Indie Voice Blog. Enjoying my “weekend” today and tomorrow, so it was the perfect time to sit down and share these five new singles and music videos with you. Hope you are having a great holiday and are ready for summer and the return to “live music.” Here we go.

NEW SINGLES

Our first single this week is from Rod Gator, the new moniker for multi-LA Music Critic Award winning artist Rod Melancon, who is also signed to Blue Elan Records. This one is dedicated to his home state and is “For Louisiana.” We think you’ll love it. Welcome Rod.

Our second single is from another Blue Elan artist, The Vegabonds. We love the classic country feel of this one, and definitely get “Shaky Hands” when we listen. Well done.

Suzanne Santo is one half of the Americana duo honeyhoney, and is a dynamic solo artist on her own. Her latest single is powerful and we can’t wait to check out the forthcoming new album. Give a listen to “Common Sense” and we guarantee you’ll want more.

We are overjoyed to share with you a new band that is upbeat and fun to listen to. Welcome to our blog, One More Weekend. We are really enjoying “Colourful Things” and can’t wait to hear what comes next.

Our final single this week comes from local California southern country rockers Sam Morrison Band. The song is called “Straight Outta Jacksonville” and features the Sons of Liberty. Grab a cold one and make some noise with this one.

NEW MUSIC VIDEOS

Before we share this week’s music videos, we have a special treat for you. One of our favorite country artists, Toby Keith has a new lyric video, and of course, it’s controversial. Check out “Happy Birthday America” and let us know where you stand.

Back in February we shared the single “A Lot Like Home” from Risa Binder. Today we are happy to share the music video, which features Benji Harris. We love this collaboration and hope it makes it home to CMT.

Next up is a lyric music video released yesterday by Shannon Clark and the Sugar. We love the beautiful cinematography and think you’ll get a kick out of their song, “Little Darlin.”

Somehow we missed this next music video when it was released back in May. It features the powerful and soulful vocals of Candace Devine and is from her new band Ponderosa Grove. What also makes it special are all the cameos from friends and fans, sharing their own personal losses. Remember those who have gone ahead of the “Waterline.”

Another video that debuted yesterday is the latest from Bryan Lanning and is a sentimental feel good song worthy of repeated listens. Check out “Slide into my GM” and see if it doesn’t make you want to relive those memories.

We close out this week’s edition with some smoking rock and roll from The NEW Bardots. They may be “On our Own,” but we are happy to join the party. See you next week.