Composer and performer Thomas Kozumplik leads a 16-member orchestra in a riveting performance of instrumental artistry with his latest project, Child of the Earth.
“Mother Nature (la inocencia pérdida)” is quite an attention-grabbing opening — with the cacophony of various bells and drum beats and piano chords that doesn’t quite allow you to figure out where the song is headed —mirroring the beauty and unpredictability of Mother Nature itself. Then it shifts with the use of heavy percussion and ominous vocal work that creates an intense juxtaposition to the first few minutes. As the composition comes to an end, it settles back down, bringing back the playful xylophone, plus some piano chords and vocals that ring with finality.
The next two tracks are the small but sweet filling between the two thick pieces of bread in this orchestral sandwich. “Mysticism (Carillon) resembles a wind chime in its breezy tone. It is the most serene of the tracks, bringing about a certain peace and calm that only chimes can do. “A Journey (baile de los tambores)” goes back to the more chaotic sound of “Mother Nature.” The intense yet catchy drum beats are a mirror opposite to the quiet romance of “Mysticism.”
“Beauty and its Passing (cuando habíamos podido amar)” is quite a triumphant ending to this large-scale orchestra. It is a more subdued work in a way that is more contemplative. For most of the song, the signature heavy percussion is not present, putting piano and marimba at the forefront, as a way of bringing the intensity of the orchestra to a gentle close.
Child of the Earth is an incredible feat. His work and artistry certainly speak for themselves — Kozumplik manages to create something entirely new and interesting, allowing listeners to disappear into a world of magical music.
Be sure to check out the album, and keep up with Kozumplik here.
Forever X2‘s new self-titled 6 track EP is thrilling, from the very first, edge-tinged lines of “Keep the Devil Waiting” through the last, soothing notes of far more ethereal sounding “Forever Times Two”. The four tracks between are simply the well-rounded center of the Oreo, AKA all some type of amazing. “Think About It” and “Walk the Ocean” have similar paces, the focal point, so to speak, of each track truly being the artist’s raspy vocals. “Mad For Me” sounds much more influenced by punk music, It’s our favorite, as it feels 80’s other-worldly and we’re more than into that headspace right now. If you take the time to sit and enjoy “God Don’t Want”, you’ll feel so much better about the world around you. And the inclusion of such varying soundscapes might inspire you in a different direction.
Forever X2 is definitely worth a listen. I mean, don’t you want to stay on top of new music?
Seattle-based alt-country rockers Massy Ferguson – comprised of Fred Slater (keys), Dave Goedde (drums), Ethan Anderson (Bass/lead vocals), Adam Monda (guitar/vocals) – recently released the music video for their track “Maybe the Gods”, and we’ve got it here for your viewing pleasure. Fun illustrations basked in brilliant, contrasting colors make for a gorgeous and entertaining visual. Check it out now!
Elliah Heifetz has a fresh EP titled New Folk Songs, which is reflected as such. His latest single is titled “Paranoid Blues”, and we’ve been reeling from its beauty ever since we first set ears on it! His gorgeous, rasp-tinged vocals draw you in with a sense of nostalgia, while the strings and light percussion take you on a very earthy, beautiful sonic journey.
Indie rock outfit Manzanita Falls – Jeremy McCarten (Guitar, Vocals), Cameron Morris (Drums), Matt Robinson (Bass), Ross Barbieri (Guitar, Vocals) – releases their new music video for “Windows” today, and we’ve got your first look! Charming, well thought out, and visually engaging, the video follows the band members as they carry a red door around on an adventure. Watch it all unfold with the backdrop of this incredible song below!
Today, we have the insane pleasure of premiering alt-rock collective James World‘s latest visual gem for the title track off their upcoming album Funny Dreams. Beginning in a rural community walking down the street, you get a feeling that something is a-brewing if not only for the edgy vocals and guitar that lead in to the core of the track. Overlays of scenes enter the frame in black and white, creating a psychedelic space for the viewer, amidst flashing lights and a sense of confusion amidst the insanity. And yet, the adventure is somehow calming as the beautiful trees lead you out.
Check it out below and let us know what you think on Facebook!
In the lead up to the release of Ryan Thompson & The Delicate Hounds‘ new album Waiting On a Ghost, we have a fresh new treasure to delve into. Their latest song “Stop” premiered recently, and it is one for the books. Coupled with Ryan’s robust vocals, the song is a mid-tempo dream. Rife with waning guitars that give it almost a surfer vibe, the track is the perfect amount of scrumptious for a warm weather barbecue. (Not that you needed a reason for a party, but if you want one, this is it.)
Waiting On a Ghost is out May 24th. Keep up with the band here.
On Tuesday, May 14th, Elle King gave an incredible and unforgettable performance at The Truman, in the Crossroads District of Kansas City. Barns Courtney opened the show with phenomenal energy, and they were absolutely chomping at the bit by the time this legendary vocalist took the stage. While her male cohorts on stage all matched, she wore a striking and unique suit outfit. But it was her vulnerability that she wore best on stage, as she tore through song after song to a crowd of what had to be some of her biggest fans. Peer into the scene below!
Ohio-based band The Shootouts’ debut album Quick Draw is the ultimate throwback to the age of honky-tonk in America. Every detail, from the lyrics to the vocals to the instruments to the album cover art, hearkens back to the good old days of classic country music. The band, consisting of Ryan Humbert (lead vocals, acoustic guitar), Brian Poston (electric & acoustic guitar), Ryan McDermott (bass), Dylan Gomez (drums, percussion) and Emily Bates (harmony vocals), create a wholesome album with heart that is sure to make their listeners feel as if they have travelled back to a much simpler time.
With the first track, “Cleaning House” jumps right in with a toe-tapping ditty that’s as fun as it is metaphorical. Other tracks like “Who Needs Rock & Roll” and “Reckless Abandon” have the same carefree, catchy vibe that almost guarantees its ability to get stuck in your head. They’re short, sweet, and incredibly charming. Even a song called “Alimony” is full of charm and humorous lyrics:
Alimony, oh alimony, I thought I bought steak and it was old bologna. Me oh my, oh goodness sake, I’m paying for my mistake.
There’s a fair share of the album’s softer side with songs such as “California to Ohio,” “If We Quit Now, “Lonely Never Lets Me Down,” and “Losing Faith in Being Faithful.” These songs are pretty and emotional, bringing us back to traditional country ballads that are often hard to find in the current age of pop-country.
At first glance, Quick Draw may seem like just another country album, but it is entirely its own entity. The lyrics are sharp and well-written, the instrumentals are skillful, and even if this isn’t your kind of music, it’s quite an enjoyable listening experience.
Be sure to check out Quick Draw, which is out now, and keep up with The Shootouts here.
