Category: REVIEWS

CD and DVD reviews

Ginetta’s Vendetta Presents “Fun Size”

Ginetta’s Vendetta delivers a tasteful and elegant take on jazz with an outright timeless approach to “Fun Size.” Utilizing a pocket trumpet, she sculpts an entire world teeming with life. The songs flow one into the other, ensuring the album works best when taken together as a coherent whole. Best of all, her instrument of…

Rhett May with ‘Rock and Roll Emotions Part Two’

The real core of rock and roll and the spirit that it embodies is put on full display here with ‘Rock and Roll Emotions Part Two’.  Rhett May captures that rebellious tone in brilliant fashion by delivering raw ‘Rock and Roll Emotions’.  I had the chance to review ‘Rock and Roll Emotions Part One’ back…

Margaret Slovak & Chris Maresh Presents ‘A Star’s Light Does Fall’

Margaret Slovak and Chris Maresh present a hushed reverence with “A Star’s Light Does Fall.” These skeletal musings feel undoubtedly intimate. Every gesture gets amplified in the vast open space by keeping arrangements to the absolute essentials. The interplay between them feels inspired, as they rely upon the themes as a starting point. How they…

Michael Burke Presents ‘A Strange Mistake To Make’

Michael Burke goes for an elegant, elastic, and confounding series of grooves with the constantly twisting “A Strange Mistake To Make.” Indie rock, electronica, and folk all get filtered through his distinctive, unique vision. The lyrics have a pained expression behind them as he pours his heart out. Nods to groups like Lambchop’s most recent…

D’Lee Presents ‘Wonder Woman’ EP

A classic country bluesy charm defines “Wonder Woman,” with D’Lee’s brassy, bold vocals possessing an inherent American beauty. The songs sidestep trends for a timelessness, for there’s a true-blue authenticity that comes through. Her lyrics are the centerpiece of exploring the messy dynamics of relationships, discovering one’s purpose, and embracing individualism. That’s not to say…

Strange New World Present ‘Escape

Acid alliteration and melted psychedelic rock adorn Strange New World’s aptly named “Escape.” Instrumentation goes for an expansive approach, ensuring each detail reverberates within the vast space. Her voice has a hypnotic quality, lulling the listener into a sense of peace. Like some off-kilter series of lullabies, the narratives that form feel like they draw…

Midwest Dilemma with ‘Searching for the Cure for Loneliness’

Midwest Dilemma with ‘Searching for the Cure for Loneliness’ I’m pretty sure Midwest Dilemma has not found the exact cure for loneliness, BUT I can definitively say that Midwest Dilemma has delivered original music in its purest form. Fronted by singer/songwriter Justin Lamoureux, ‘Searching for the Cure for Loneliness’ is one for the ages. With…

GREGORIAN RELEASES NEW ALBUM ‘PURE CHANTS II’

GREGORIAN RELEASES NEW ALBUM ‘PURE CHANTS II’ Gregorian, the signature achievement of legendary producer, Frank Peterson who co-created Enigma and the “chant” phenomenon in contemporary music, reinvigorates ancient traditions with the hollowed ground of “Pure Chants II.” The songs have a stripped-down beauty behind them. Drawing upon centuries’ worth of musical history, the pieces flow…

RIVIT Present New Single ‘AWAY’

RIVIT Present New Single ‘AWAY’ Wow I feel like I just woke up and it is the glorious late 90’s. I want to welcome you all to the new single by RIVIT called ‘Away.’ From the moment the track plays it comes on hard. The guitar and drums grabs you and does not let you…

The Tim Lancaster Conspiracy with “Bang Bang, Bang Bang”

The Tim Lancaster Conspiracy with “Bang Bang, Bang Bang” Get ready because The Tim Lancaster Conspiracy is firing off a hot, new single titled “Bang Bang, Bang Bang”. If you’re in the mood for something fresh ‘n’ original, then look no further than “Bang Bang, Bang Bang” by The Tim Lancaster Conspiracy. Hoping to shoot…

D’Lee Presents New Single ‘Whispering Like a Yell’

D’Lee Presents New Single ‘Whispering Like a Yell’ D’Lee shows tremendous patience with the slow burn of “Whispering Like a Yell.” The song’s buildup is majestic, for the rest of the group holds back, allowing her vocals to take center stage. Everything here works, from the arrangement that embodies the best of rock, country, and…

Cheyanne Summer new single “Prom Queen”

A retro flavor flows through Cheyanne Summer’s joyous throwback atmosphere of “Prom Queen.” The classic rock quality is handy as it unfurls in this joyous fashion. Her vocals are a real treat while they straddle the line between the blues and 1950 doo-wop rock. Riffs run through with a surfer effect, adding to the song’s…

Tim Qualls Releases Stripped Version of Album ‘Feel’

Tasteful and stately, Tim Qualls shares his very soul with the powerful statement “Feel (Stripped).” He keeps things to the essentials – drum kick and soaring yet understated synthesizer sweeps- and they have a majesty even while retaining this approachability. Vocals are the core of the entire journey from which all else radiates. With these…

Gunhild Carling Presents ‘Jazz Is My Lifestyle’

A swinging, stately good time races through Gunhild Carling’s gleeful “Jazz Is My Lifestyle.” From the vocals to the expansive sonic palette, the rhythms go for this unhinged atmosphere. They keep things speeding up, with the horn interjections feeling downright joyful. At times, the album feels ready to give itself up for a decadent, chaotic…

Gino Amato Presents ‘Latin Crossroads’

Gino Amato goes for a wild, party-like atmosphere with the playful “Latin Crossroads.” Nods to many genres appear within the fringes of the sound – from Bossa Nova to pop and 70s-era rock, a golden era mining occurs within the work. Vocals rest right in the center of the entire experience. Instrumentally, he incorporates flute,…

Sylvie’s Songs Featuring Bryon Harris Presents “Heart Break Like Mine” On World Farmed Animals Day on October 2, 2024

A soulful ballad emerges as Sylvie’s Songs goes for a compassionate ode with “Heart Break Like Mine.” The song keeps things relatively soft. Folk, pop, and classical emerge, blending into this cohesive whole. By far, the highlight comes from the vocalist. With a delivery that perfectly embodies the tender tones of the band, things come…

Jon Wirtz New Album ‘Beautiful Illusion’ Out October 11

A beautiful trip of ambient bliss and bubbling synths rises from Jon Wirtz’s mystical “Beautiful Illusion.” Conjuring up dream-like orchestras out of thin air, the melodies, alongside the evolution of the textures, result in this entirely immersive universe. It is easy to get lost in the many different layers that Jon utilizes with ease. The…

Aaron Bleiweiss Presents Debut Solo Album “Twists and Turns”

Aaron Bleiweiss releases debut solo album called: “Twists and Turns”. On September 6, 2024 Bleiweiss delivered a record composed and drenched in various genres inspired by the world of New York. “Twists and Turns” is a compilation of 11 breathtaking and staggering tracks that take the listener into a profound and extensive world. Somewhere in…

Linn Holmes Unveils New Single: “Cruisin’ With You”

Linn Holmes unveils her latest single called: “Cruisin’ With You”, released on September 6, 2024. The talented and gifted singer originally from Sweden and now based in Los Angeles, strikes the rock scene again with a nostalgic and catchy tune. Linn Holmes’ single portrays a distinctive sound, blending rock, pop, and country. Somewhere in between…

Exploring the Appeal of the Black Dildo: A Comprehensive Guide

Exploring the Appeal of the Black Dildo: A Comprehensive Guide In the ever-expanding world of adult toys, the black dildo stands out as a unique and popular choice for many individuals. Its sleek design and bold color have captured the interest of a diverse audience, but there’s more to this toy than meets the eye. This…

Lynne Taylor Donovan Presents “THE DOCTOR”

Lynne Taylor Donovan presents her latest single called: “The Doctor”. The talented and recognized singer from the Canadian country music scene, strikes again with a cool and upbeat banging track. Lynne Taylor Donovan combines country rock, with grabbing hooks, staggering vocals, and pulsating grooves. The passionate and gifted artist delivers a single drenched in greatness,…

Blind Uncle Harry Presents “I Have No Expectations”

Blind Uncle Harry presents his latest single called: “I Have No Expectations”, dropping on September 21, 2024. The talented and independent recording artist based in Bloomington, Indiana, strikes the music scene again with a hip and engaging track that will blow the listener away. Blind Uncle Harry cobines, folk, country, 60’s vibes, and rock, yet…

Anne Burnell and Mark Burnell Present ‘This Could Be the Start of Something Big’ Out October 1, 2024

Anne Burnell and Mark Burnell present their latest album called: “This Could Be the Start of Something Big”. Chicago’s finest recently announced that the groovy and magnificent record will be out on October 1, 2024. The Burnells perform an extensive set of material from Clifford Brown’s “Joy Spring” and a bluesy version of “A Sunday…

Eric Person Presents ‘Rhythm Edge’ Out October 1, 2024

Eric Person presents his latest album titled: “Rhythm Edge”. The accomplished and talented musician recently announced that the dandy and proficient record will be released on October 1, 2024. “Rhythm Edge” almost sounds and feels like a musical powerhouse that not only travels far into the edge, but also reminds the listener of the importance…

Kenneith Perrin Presents “No Ordinary Love”

Kenneith Perrin Presents “No Ordinary Love” Kenneith Perrin delivers his latest single called: “No Ordinary Love”. The talented and gifted singer/songwriter out of Georgia, strikes the music scene again with an infectious and soul-stirring tune. “No Ordinary Love” is found somewhere in between R&B, dance, gospel, and new wave. The singer who sings songs for…

Yuka Mito Presents “How Deep is the Ocean” Out October 11, 2024

Yuka Mito presents her latest album titled: “How Deep is the Ocean” out on October 11, 2024. The talented and pleasurable jazz singer from Tokyo and currently residing in New York, delivers a warm and infectious record. Yuka Mito portrays subtle touches of classical music and pop, yet stays innovative and generates a soundscape of…

Jack Wood & Nichaud Fitzgibbon Present ‘Movie Magic Great Songs From The Movies’ Out October 1, 2024

Jack Wood and Nichaud Fitzgibbon present: “Movie Magic Great Songs From The Movies”, out on October 1, 2024. Jack Wood, one the best interpreters in Southern California, teams up with major Australian jazz singer Nichaud Fitzgibbon. Together, they deliver some of their most heartwarming and lovely solo recordings. Wood and Fitzgibbon paint warm touches of…

Joe Marcinek Band with ‘1 River Street’

Joe Marcinek Band with ‘1 River Street’ Joe Marcinek Band is off to the races with its 9th release titled ‘1 River Street’.  As a widely-known touring act, Joe Marcinek Band rarely keeps the same members intact more than once.  It is never a dull moment for this ever-changing group that is always evolving.  The…

Rob Massard New Single ‘I Am The Sun’

Robert Massard releases his new single called: “I Am The Sun”. The talented and calming singer-songwriter from Detroit, Michigan soothes the world once again with this dazzling and evocative single. “I Am The Sun” feels and brings a nostalgic tone, yet it stays modern and produces a soundscape of modern folk rock. Somewhere in between…

Vincent Covello New Album “Torchlights”

Vincent Covello unveils his brand new album called: “Torchlights”. Los Angeles based singer and songwriter originally from Michigan delivers an exceptional, soulful, and touching record. “Torchlights” is an extraordinary piece of work reflecting current modern day classical music and contemporary light jazz, yet managing to stay flawlessly fresh. Somewhere in between pain, loss, and beautiful…

The Jared Stout Band Release New Album “Heavy From the Sky”

The Jared Stout Band strike again with their latest album called: “Heavy From the Sky”. The talented and innovative band based out of Southwestern, Virginia hit the world with this cheerful and well timed record. “Heavy From the Sky” feels and brings a nostalgic country like energy, yet it stays fresh and generates a soundscape…

Sebastian James New Single “When We Were Young”

The talented rocker Sebastian James delivers his latest single called: “When We Were Young”. The American singer, songwriter, and musician from Kansas City, Missouri strikes the rock n’ roll scene again with a bright and optimistic track. “When We Were Young” is an extraordinary single where the late 80’s and the early 2000’s seem to…

Rob Lalain with ‘Life’

Rob Lalain breathes new ‘Life’ into the airwaves and it is a breath of fresh air to say the least. This new album is a highly-anticipated release and follow up to the critically acclaimed ‘Back to the Start’ album. With 14 original songs, the material is both reflective and personal touching on all aspects of…

WAKING STONE NEW SINGLE “SUBMERSION”

Waking Stone shocks the music world once again with the release of their latest single called: “Submersion”. The track is not only a perfect image of the band’s unusual gifts, but it is also a strong and solid statement to the alternative rock scene today. “Submersion” is an extraordinary track where the late 80’s and…

@skopemag Review – Bongo Boy TV – No. 7 Season 13 – Crazy Direction

A noir flavor defines Athxna’s bluesy trip-hop of “Crazy.” Vocals have this eerie atmosphere, with the sample virtually ready to completely break down. The inclusion of found sonic artifacts adds to the disorientation of the work. Sydney’s Guard embraces a pure party celebration with the agility of a “Sense of Direction.” From the echoed vocals…

Chris Beland with ‘The Waiting’

Love and loss along with the trials and tribulations are all reoccurring themes on the new release ‘The Waiting’. Chris Beland sings, writes and performs straight from the heart with personal accounts being reimagined on the new EP. Chris Beland weaves through this 4-song set with such elegance and simplicity and so now ‘The Waiting’…

Colin Roy Monette Supplies ‘Simple Gifts’

If you’re in the mood for some honest, down-to-earth music with no fancy gimmicks or bells & whistles, then take a listen to ‘Simple Gifts’ by Colin Roy Monette. Colin strips everything down musically and just focuses on delivering genuine lyrics & notes. With 10 personal tracks that mean a lot to Colin Roy Monette,…

Atom Stone is Heating Up with ‘Take Me To The Fire’

Atom Stone has been musically-inclined since he was a kid starting as a woodwind player and later evolving into a skilled singer and guitarist.  Hailing from New York, Atom Stone brings a wide range of influences to the brand new release titled ‘Take Me To The Fire’.  Atom Stone’s overall sound and vocal style has…