Maria Jordan, Landslide

Singer/Songwriters are a dime a dozen, but Maria Jordan proves that she is THE needle in the haystack.  Her new album Landslide proves that Jordan is a genuine-to-the-core artist with definite star quality.  You get real substance here with no filler and the new record will show you why Maria is a mainstay in the music world. 

Maria Jordan wrote all the lyrics on the new album as well as taking on lead vocals and playing acoustic guitar on most tracks.  She even added electric guitar on song eight “I’ll be there” that was very well-done.  She even played the role of executive producer along with her drummer Dave Heyes.  The record was produced and mixed by John Kettle who also played electric guitar & bass on most tracks.  All three musicians definitely brought it all together with precision & finesse. 

It’s obvious after hearing this album in full that Maria is the real deal.  Landslide starts up with a number titled “Crazy” that has a nice rock feel mixed in with Jordan’s pop-friendly vocals.  Right away, you can sense that this style of song would be perfect on any Top 100/pop radio station.  The record rolls along with that same radio-friendliness ringing in your ears.  On the whole, ALL 10 songs are extremely catchy and will definitely attract listeners.  For example, on track five “Soldiers Arms”, you’re getting a nice & subtle approach by Jordan.  Her soft tone and wonderful voice really draws you in.  The way that Maria sings, especially on this installment, is very inviting and appealing.  This talented singer/songwriter/musician has successfully connected with people everywhere.

In the end, Maria Jordan knew what she & the fans wanted and she delivered.  This album will definitely push Maria forward in the right direction.  Be on the lookout for Maria Jordan because she is about to explode on the music scene!  For more on this artist and her new recording Landslide, SKOPE out www.mariajordan.com. 

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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Gayle Cloud, Many Waters

Just picture yourself sitting under the clouds daydreaming as you try to make out figures & shapes from each and every passing cloud.  That is exactly the feeling you will get after experiencing Gayle Cloud’s Many Waters.  Gayle has created a world full of peace, love & tranquility on this new album.  Cloud invites you in to feel & hear all of the many wonders, joys and waters that life has to offer you.

Gayle is a Seattle-based singer/songwriter that blends pop, folk, dreamscape and world influences together to make up one unique sound.  The important factor here is that Cloud is an artist who just simply cares and she proves it here: “Musicians and songwriters can play a fascinating role in life.  I think we are often able to express in a magical way some of life’s intense experiences for other people.  I love writing songs that help fuel people’s desires and courage in their own lives.”

The CD starts up with the title track “Many Waters” that has the calming & soothing sounds of water to go along with an incredibly pleasant vocal performance.  Nothing more relaxing than the sound of flowing water and Gayle Cloud captures this whole scene by taking you to an exotic & spiritual place.  Going into the next song “Bombay”, you sense right away that this musician has a worldly/international appeal.  Overall, the record is low-key music that I’d like to refer to as cleansing for your mind, body & soul.  That’s why it is such an unexpected yet welcoming surprise on track eight, “Turn Around Loverboy” where you get a pop/rock feel and strong rock guitar presence.  Honestly, I would have loved to hear more surprises like this mixed in, but I understand where Gayle was taking this project.  Adding in more fast, up-tempo tunes quite possibly could have taken away from the entire purpose, meaning & message behind this record.  I understand if Gayle did not want to take this risk because it could have changed the whole make-up and tone of this album.  I see now that Gayle Cloud probably made the right choice by not making too many drastic changes from song to song.  Gayle ends things with a song called “Open to Love” where you sense this artist being so sincere and so honest.  You’re not just hearing a song about love but actually feeling it in all its glory—amazing job!

Besides Gayle’s very nice voice that is overly comforting, you also hear a fine touch of piano throughout the 10-track recording.  This record is music that will make you stop and think while also giving you a good feeling.  You will receive a sense of fulfillment & self-enrichment as if you just got out of church when this CD concludes.  Forget about life’s worries for awhile and give Gayle Cloud and her Many Waters a chance.  For more on this talented artist from Washington and her new release, SKOPE out www.gaylecloud.com. 

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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Sab The Artist, Self-Titled

Sab The Artist, not to be confused with Saab the car but definitely comparable in terms of quality, precision and high performance, is making his move.  Sab The Artist, originally from Minnesota but now based in Vegas, attempts to spread love through his music.  Sab gives off a positive energy that is absolutely contagious.  The beauty here is that even though Sab is makin’ happy-go-lucky tunes, there’s a deeper message instilled in each and every song.  Sab is an artist who keeps everything in perspective and has figured out a winning formula that works with his brand new EP.

Besides being a talented rapper, hip-hop artist, songwriter & performer, Sab also co-founded the indie hip-hop label Rhymesayers Entertainment.  The production on this 7-track recording is sharp as a tack thanks in big part to Tom Baker of Precision Mastering whose work includes: The Beastie Boys, Ray Charles, Fergie and B.B. King.  Sab has created art through his music in what he likes to call “Horned Heart Music, which is a symbol and beacon for the misunderstood”. 

The EP combines hip-hop, pop & rap lines to make up something that is icy fresh and steamin’ hot.  The disc starts up with a fun ‘n’ innocent vibe & flow on “Lookin at Girls” where Sab has something to say to all the ladies out there.  This is exactly what he has to say to all the women listening: “I can’t stop lookin’ at girls because y’all are too hot.”  Sab is simple, direct and to the point here as he just can’t hide his feelings anymore about the female anatomy.  Next up is a track titled “Artsy Crafty” that has some very catchy beats & sounds that will make you bounce around all day long.  On song four, “Just Wanna Have Fun”, Sab mixes it up a bit by giving you those good-times vibes but done with a slightly melancholy tone.  Very interesting approach here as Sab attempts to bring this song to life through the act of musical art.  On track five, “Laugh”, you witness a serious tone and a sense that this really isn’t a laughing matter.  The message I gathered here is that we ALL need to come together to make this world a better place, so that we can all universally laugh finally.  The rhyme flow and beats are on point during the song “Never Knew Her” and Sab decides to close the show on a Caribbean island-sounding note with “Right Here”. 

No need to take a jab or even call a cab because this fab Sab has got a gift for gab.  Take a chance on Sab The Artist; roll the dice and roll ‘em twice to hear the listener yell out NICE…NICE…NICE!  Sorry, thought I’d put my own rhyme skills to the test I confess, but if you do not approve then I suggest you put it to rest and please do contest.  Enough of that now but on a serious tip; Sab The Artist has made a great EP full of promise & potential.  This multi-talented music artist may live in Sin City, but he lives his life by the code of positivity.  The music speaks for itself and you will realize that once you sink your ears into all seven tracks.  Sky’s the limit for this rappin’ songwriter and based on what I heard on this EP, Sab The Artist is well on his way.  For more info, SKOPE out www.sabtheartist.com. 

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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Alive In Stereo, Self-Titled

This rock trio out of Denver is alive & well with their self-titled debut EP Alive In Stereo.  The band is made up of: frontman/guitarist Chris Evans, Toby Crisp on drums and Alex Browers on bass.  These three members bring such an incredible amount of energy to the table that will impact listeners everywhere.  Alive In Stereo’s powerful presence can best be described as energized & thought-provoking hard rock music for your ear drums.

The EP starts up with a rockin’ joint right out of the gates with “Change Things” where you hear some sharp guitar playing and overall band chemistry at its finest.  The song takes the listener to a deep place in Chris Evans’ heart.  The track, according to Evans, was written about the “absolute darkest place, in the throes of addiction.”  You can actually feel Chris’ pain & sadness in his voice as he cries out to the whole world.  Next up, “Impossible”, draws the listener in once again to experience life being lived on the edge by the frontman himself.  On this number, you’re getting heavy, hard rock riffs mixed in with Chris’ sensitive yet powerful vocals.  It’s not “Impossible” to say or even think that this is one power-packed performance.  Song five, “Everything is Burning”, reminded a lot of an old Incubus-styled song more so off the Make Yourself album.  I picked up on this right away through Evans’ vocal delivery and by way of how Toby & Alex played to the song.  “Everything is Burning” is similar both vocally & musically to that of Incubus; there is no mistaking it and no denying it. 

I simply love what AIS has done here by blending hard rock tunes with emotionally-drenched lyrics.  Surprisingly enough, one will also pick up on pop elements that Chris is able to convey flawlessly to the audience.  Chris Evans, Toby Crisp & Alex Browers prove to us all what a real rock band should sound like.  The intensity is highly evident, the musicianship is top-notch and the artistry is second to none here.  Alive In Stereo is the real deal and they will be invading your cities/towns & air waves very soon!  For more on this exciting band from Colorado and their brand new release, SKOPE out www.aliveinstereo.com. 

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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JOHN MELLENCAMP, NO BETTER THAN THIS

At first the record companies wanted Bruce Springsteen to be the “New” Bob Dylan, a storyteller with a lot of words in his songs.  When he hit it big with rock, they weren’t enthused about him going back to his roots, but he had earned it, and did.  For John “Cougar” Mellencamp, they wanted the glam-packaged rocker, and weren’t enthused about him going back to his roots.  Too bad, he had also earned the right to control his career.  When you discuss modern musical storytellers, it’s a short list of artists like Dylan, Bruce, Neil Young, Tom Waits, and John Mellencamp.  No Better Than This, his 25th release, is his interpretation of the music that inspired him. 

This compilation of original songs was recorded in the basement of the First African Baptist Church in Savannah, Georgia, at Sam Phillips Sun Studios in Memphis, and room 414 at the Gunter Hotel in San Antonio where Robert Johnson recorded in 1936.  Producer T-Bone Burnett basically followed John around with John’s 1955 Ampex 601 tape recorder, and an RCA ribbon mic to capture JM’s interpretation of early blues, gospel, rural folk music, and a little bit of rockabilly. 

13 songs written in 13 days, John and his wife getting baptized in the historic church he recorded in.  Creepy?  Spooky? Haunted?  Ever watch those Ghost encounter/hunter stories on cable?  The disc has an eerie, but cool sound to it.  It does remind you of newly discovered tapes of a blues artist made decades ago, acoustic guitar, a speck of fiddle and electrified guitar, minimal drums and bass effects.  He is also working with Stephen King on the score for a play titled Ghost Brothers of Darkland County.  On the brighter side, in addition to working with Willie Nelson promoting the Farm Aid events, John is heading 1 Matters, an effort to help the homeless. 

It’s unique, a bit spooky, and as advertised, maybe a little haunted.  It makes you tap along with it; it somehow takes over your available brain space.  You start to play it repeatedly.  How can U resist? 

By R.M. Engelman

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Bird Call, The Animals Know

Not your ordinary, every day bird calls here as Chiara Angelicola proves to you that The Animals Know best.  The Brooklyn-based singer/songwriter gives you a six-track EP full of fine musicianship & artistry.  The Animals Know has some wonderful moments that will keep your mind engaged throughout the whole set. 

Originally from San Francisco, Bird Call feels that this new work signifies the evolution of an artist and a woman.  Angelicola has found herself through this new EP and she is now ready to share this rewarding & gratifying experience with the whole world.  The multi-dimensional musician Bird Call wrote and composed all six tracks on the new disc.  Noah Hoffeld and Karen Waltuch add in string arrangements to songs like “Waltz in the Snow” while music vet Ralph Carney, who has worked with Tom Waits, Elvis Costello & They Might Be Giants, plays baritone sax on “Berlin”.  Bird Call also has a well-known producer on her side; Joel Hamilton who has previously produced Tom Waits, Elvis Costello & The Black Keys.  With musical talent coming from all directions, I can’t wait to hear this entire EP now!

The recording starts up with “Waltz in the Snow” and right away you hear uniqueness in Bird Call’s voice.  Her singing style reminds me of the singer Adele in ways and I’m actually not a fan of that approach.  Nothing against Chiara or Adele, but personally I just don’t care for that type of singing.  What I did hear in Bird Call’s voice was a tremendous amount of conviction; I knew right away we had a special kind of artist here.  Carrying into her next song “Berlin”, you get nothing but compassion from Chiara as she spills out her heart to you.  I also sensed a feeling of extreme sincerity being portrayed throughout especially on the title track “The Animals Know”.  On songs 5 & 6, “The Races” and “The Battle Outside the Gates to Your Arms”, you’re hearing graspy vocals that are being emphasized here.  This element gives the songs such a raw feeling and in turn you receive a gripping & powerful performance from Bird Call. 

In the end, I have to say that Chiara Angelicola aka Bird Call is a genuine artist who knows what she wants out of her music.  This singer/songwriter also wants to connect with the audience on a higher level and I believe she accomplished that.  For more on Bird Call and her new release The Animals Know, SKOPE out www.birdcallmusic.com. 

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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Bank, I Was Just Recording

**Parental Advisory—Explicit Lyrics & Adult Content**

I thought it would only be fair to express this review the way that it should be expressed; without censorship.  I owe it to Bank, the fans and Skope readers to not deviate away from the language that is heavily associated with this album.  I also owe it to the parents and the kids everywhere to stick a warning label at the top.  Just like on an album, families deserve that right to know what their children are listening to and in this sense what they are viewing.  Profanity & adult-oriented material is not meant for all ears to hear and that is the point I want to stress here.  What I wanted to do was give the loyal Skope readers a true & real representation of the record.  So…on that note let’s get into this shit!

Bank is his name and no fuckin’ around is his game.  I Was Just Recording is Bank’s first actual album, but he has two previous releases in 2009 & 2010 titled 2000 N Plenty Mixtape & Fresh Hits Daily Mixtape.  Besides being a talented rapper, the North Carolina native also has his own record label out of Atlanta called Southern Produce Entertainment.  The new record is Southern Hip Hop at its finest and Bank is giving some of those ‘Dirty South’ cats a run for their money.  Just like Lil Wayne and Swizz Beatz says, it’s “Money In The Bank” baby for this new album. 

The beauty here is that Bank goes away from common subject matters of drugs & violence to focus more on real, down-to-earth shit.  You’re getting 15 blazing tracks that offer up plenty of hot ‘n’ fresh beats along with a helluva nice flow.  Bank is on fire here and there is no one that can put him out.  You’re hearing bouncin’ club hooks, cool cruisin’-in-your-ride music as well as some downright filthy, feel-good lyrics. 

The CD starts up with an aggressive joint called “I Don’t Owe U” where Bank lets it all out.  He says during part of the song “Fuck these niggaz on BET and MTV.  I don’t owe you motherfuckers shit!”  I love how Bank’s not afraid to say what’s on his mind and how he’s calling out all the big dogs of the music biz.  On track five, “In A Zone”, Bank’s hittin’ up all the ladies out there with a smooth jam that will knock their socks off among other things.  Bank is makin’ them panties drop once again on “Sexting” featuring Jay Rome & Tobe Fam.  On this track, Bank & company are givin’ you freaky-in-the-sheets material that will make all the lovely ladies out there scream for more.  He says here “started off texting; next thing I know she in my room undressing.  Let Bank get a taste.” On song nine, Bank is sexin’ it up yet again on “Heat It Up” where he’s delivering a pleasurable performance and nailed it.  Track 10 “Designer Label” supplies a hilarious line where Bank rhymes “Skinny Jeans oh no, no, no—not enough room for my dick to go.” ?

Enough about T&A and all that pussy talk; let’s get down to business and discuss Bank the rapper/lyricist/songwriter/producer and just why he’s recording.  He’s recording this record because he has got a lot to say and offer through skilled rhymin’ and tighter than tight beats.  Bank is a true MC and a solid hip-hop artist who is here to stay ladies and gents.  I’d also like to add that Nerak Bailey on track 12 ,“Daylight”, impressed the hell out of me with her incredibly nice & soulful singing; what a voice!  Also, the synthesized vocal sound popularized by the likes of T-Pain is highly evident on this album.  This effect is heavily saturated in today’s music market, especially hip-hop, and I think it’s overemphasized way too much.  Besides that, I Was Just Recording gives the listeners quality & realness, so no need for any of that fancy sound effect bullshit.  Bank goes out on top with the closer “Do It All” featuring Tobe Fam where he’s bringin’ a shit-load of hype energy and a cool swag.  Bank is doin’ his goddamn thing and doin’ it BIG and doin’ it fuckin’ good.  For more on the multi-talented artist and his new release, SKOPE out www.southernproduceent.com. 

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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Big Head Todd and the Monsters, Rocksteady

The Colorado based Big Head Todd and the Monsters have always had a small but loyal fan base but those who don’t call themselves BHTM lovers know the band only for its mainstream rock ballad “Bittersweet” that ruled the Billboard charts back in 1993. Unfortunately, that is a shame because that particular song is really not indicative of the band’s talents.

Big Head Todd and the Monsters have always been a stellar live act that expertly blends blues, jazz, funk, and pop into its concerts. Sure, the band’s sound is more laid back than edgy but it doesn’t negate the fact that lead singer Todd Park Mohr is a great vocalist who can switch between genres expertly and the rhythm section of bassist Rob Squires and drummer Brian Nevin are always as tight as a glove.

This is all good to know because the band has just released its fine eighth album entitled Rocksteady which is a much better barometer of the band’s talents than “Bittersweet.” This release is a fine collection of songs that are more R&B and Caribbean in nature.

Case in point is the title track which rocks in a way that recalls a bouncy late period Santana song. It is bluesy and funky but there is also a subtle reggae undercurrent to it that would make it fantastic to hear live. Speaking of reggae, it is also prominent in “Back the Garden” which boasts an impressive horn section that anchors the song’s groove.

As for those R&B elements, Mohr channels Al Green on the playful “I Hate It When You’re Gone” and showcases his soulful side on the nice ballad “After Gold.”

Rocksteady isn’t a complete departure for the band though as Mohr and his mates have also added some cuts that sound like the laid-back rock-pop the band has been sprinkling on its albums for years.

“Beautiful” is the album’s first single and it is easy to see why as it is as bright and melodic as anything the band has ever recorded. The band also tackles a cover of the Rolling Stones’ “Beast of Burden” and it comes off beautifully thanks to some fantastic backing female vocals.

All these fine numbers aside, there is something missing from Rocksteady. Mohr has a great blues voice and it is only showcased on the cover of Howlin’ Wolf’s “Smokestack Lightning.” The album could have used some grittier numbers like that, particularly because it gives the entire band a chance to sparkle. (This track features some great down and dirty guitar playing by Jeremy Lawton.)

On the bright side, Mohr has mentioned in recent interviews that his band recorded over 30 songs for this album and the band’s next one will feature some of the more harder-edge material it recorded.

Even so, Rocksteady is a fine Big Head Todd and the Monsters record with music that would sound great live on a sunny afternoon in the park and it shows that there is a lot more to the band than just “Bittersweet.”

Author – Todd Sikorski

www.bigheadtodd.com

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Feldiken, Common Splendor

I had the opportunity to review Feldiken’s last album for Skope titled Small Songs About Us. He made a record for “EVERYONE” as I stated then and this still stands true for the new album Common Splendor. Feldiken’s love for people in general is quite evident here as he plays the role of humanitarian extremely well. It’s worth mentioning that on Small Songs About Us, I referred to his debut as a “fam-favorite Kids album” due to the children-friendly tone and youthful spirit the album conveyed. On Common Splendor, Feldiken still has something for everyone but instead of kiddie-friendly tunes, you’re hearing a celebration of music for ALL the people of the world.

The singer/songwriter from Brooklyn offers up something special here with his new 6-track EP. Feldiken’s wife, who used to be a television producer, now shoots his videos with him. Additionally, his band is made of friends he’s known for years including Pete Archer on bass & Lou Lacobelli on drums. This closeness factor that Feldiken has with his wife and his bandmates carries over into the overall sound. Common Splendor is designed to bring each and every person together through feel-good music.

What I loved most about this recording is how Feldiken mixes up styles and tempos in stellar fashion. The EP starts up with a song titled “Age of Miracles” that offers a unique conversational/narrative vocal tone that is actually pretty cool. You can tell Feldiken & company are just havin’ fun here and I’m also hearing much better singing this time around. Next up is “Together in This Groove” that supplies a contagious dance groove that is highly enjoyable to listen to. On the title track “Common Splendor”, Feldiken goes back to that famous kids tone with an innocent-sounding approach heard loud & clear. On track four, “Everybody Loves You”, you’re witnessing an intimate & wonderful little folk number that Feldiken truly brings to life. Through solid acoustic guitar work and a crisp & soft vocal delivery, Feldiken has tapped into something incredible here. Artistry & musicianship at its finest here as Feldiken gives you a memorable & delicate performance. Song five, “Everything for Everyone” is just that as ALL instruments & musicians come alive through great melodies and top-notch playing. I actually caught myself singing along to this one because the song is extremely catchy.

I’d like to leave you with a famous quote you might have heard a time or two that has major significance to Feldiken’s own message: “—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from earth”. That line of course comes from the Gettysburg Address spoken by President Abraham Lincoln. These words really ring loud in my ears today because a certain BIG “government of the people, by the people, for the people” is no more. However, Feldiken does everything in his power to write songs that can relate with one another on all levels. This Brooklyn native is making music that is “of the people, by the people, ‘and most importantly’ for the people” as he attempts to make a lasting impression on you. At least somebody gets it and is using their skills/talents for the good of mankind; you the man Feldiken! For more on this artist and his new release Common Splendor, SKOPE out www.myspace.com/feldiken.

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

(2 Full Skopes higher than the previous album—way to go!)

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Jita, The Power of One/Lean On

This singer/songwriter from South Florida wants to prove to you that the power of faith can go a long way.  Jita has one mission and that is to pump nothing but positivity into today’s society, which is much needed.  She has one message and that is simply this: In the end, everything will be okay and work itself out, so go ahead and throw all of your constant worries & ongoing problems right out the window. 

This six-track EP focuses on two main songs: “The Power of One” & “Lean On”.  “The Power of One” actually has three different versions: Regular, Contemporary & Spanish.  Each number has its own identity & style, so no need to worry about things becoming mundane & repetitious.  This Jita is a special-kind-of-artist because you can tell that she puts extra TLC into each and every song.  Her musicianship & artistry passes all tests with flying colors as Jita appears to be shining bright.

Jita mixes genres to make up a very refreshing sound that incorporates everything from R&B & Gospel to Contemporary & even Pop/Dance.  This talented artist has an international appeal thanks in big part to her wide range of musical tastes.  Jita wants to make sure that you never get bored as you experience this entire recording.  One thing is for certain and that is that the driving force behind this record lies within Jita’s strong belief of God.  “Lean On” is a good example of this as the song depicts no matter what struggles we go through in life, the Lord is always there to guide us along.  This installment was actually written right before Jita’s mother passed away, which makes the song even more meaningful for Jita & the listeners.  This track has a pop/dance appeal that is moving in terms of the beat and also moving in terms of her touching message.  The record starts up with the regular version of “The Power of One” that touches on the force of individuality.  One person can make a huge difference in this world through kind acts and positive reinforcement is what Jita is stressing here.  Right from the start, I hear a female singer whose music is both uplifting and full of color & life.  Jita exhibits such a pleasant singing voice where you think to yourself she was meant to do this.  The Contemporary version, up next, is less animate & more simplified but still very powerful in presence.  The Spanish version displays a dance rhythm that adds a flavorful twist to this empowering song. 

Jita is coming off her debut album Sweet Lyric and I would say this six-track set goes beyond Sweet Lyrics and enters into the realm of Inspiring Melodies.  Jita has found God, has found herself and now she has found many endearing fans with more on the way.  Never stop believing because the day that you do is the day that you are defeated; let Jita shed some welcoming light on your days.  Through the power of faith, love & music, Jita attempts to save this planet one person at a time.  Hope is alive and well, which is very reassuring to know and I commend people like Jita who are helping with this cause—Thank you.  For more on this solo act and her new release, SKOPE out www.jitamusic.org.

By Jimmy Rae (jrae@skopemag.com)

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