Category: REVIEWS

CD and DVD reviews

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…

Gordon Thomas Ward with  ‘Walking On The Wire’

Do you have a sudden yearning for classic storytellers of yesteryear and a craving for timeless folk music?  If you answered yes, then I invite you to check out Gordon Thomas Ward and his latest album titled ‘Walking On The Wire’.  Gordon Thomas Ward has a way of connecting with a lyric and bringing a…

Keegan McInroe with ‘Dusty Passports and Empty Beds’

Right away I am intrigued just based off of this album title ‘Dusty Passports and Empty Beds’, so I am eager to learn more about Keegan McInroe.  Keegan is an accomplished singer/songwriter from Texas and is also considered to be an international troubadour.  ‘Dusty Passports and Empty Beds’ is Keegan McInroe’s seventh studio album and…

Paula Maya Presents ‘Rio de Janeiro’ Out August 1, 2024

A breezy take on the classic Brazilian Bossa Nova style, Paula Maya delivers a soothing yet sultry sound on the aptly named “Rio de Janeiro.” Tempos are rolled back to allow for a contemplative quality to emerge. True to Bossa Nova’s roots, instrumentation is sparse and highly emotionally charged. Paula’s vocals feel reminiscent of Astrid…

Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra Present ‘Things Will Pass’

Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra embraces a neat mixture of traditional jazz with a unique twist on the timelessness of “Things Will Pass.” The music has a poetic sensibility, allowing the instrumentation to speak volumes. A classic midcentury cool rises from the sound, giving it a cultured, sophisticated spirit. Interplay amongst the band imbues a spirited…

Lucas Jack with ‘Bittersweet is Better’

Lucas Jack is a talented singer/songwriter who grew up in Michigan and was surrounded by music at a very young age.  With influences that range from Billy Joel and Elton John to the Doobie Brothers and Hall and Oates, Lucas is an eclectic musician to say the least.  The latest release is titled ‘Bittersweet is…

Stephen Jacques Offers “Prayers for an Orange Cat”

Stephen Jacques is a talented singer/songwriter who is well known for making alt-rock love songs. The latest single is titled “Prayers for an Orange Cat” and offers an abundance of rich substance for the listening audience. “Prayers for an Orange Cat” is the highlighted single off the upcoming album with the same name. Prepare for…

Indecent Proposal Lights Up the Airwaves with “Albright”

Indecent Proposal brings a high energy single to the table and it’s simply “Albright”. The four-piece band from Duluth, Minnesota stands by the group’s motto to “be yourself, and be indecent”. The whole purpose behind Indecent Proposal is to provide music that has no restrictions while connecting people on a higher level. On the band’s…

Third Development Delivers “Our Parallel Worlds”

Music really is a universal language and Third Development proves this point with the new release titled “Our Parallel Worlds”. Crossing musical boundaries and connecting people from all walks of life is what Third Development is all about. “Our Parallel Worlds” celebrates this aspect of connectedness in a most profound way by combining a wide…

Nathan Morris New Single “Villain”

A playful bit of 80s midi funk pops within Nathan Morris’ “Villain.” From the vocal treatment to the chunky synthesizer stabs, there’s a glorious wash of color. The arrangement has a classic cadence with nods to Michael Jackson’s “Bad” as the work has a similar cinematic scope. Lyricism has this sense of evil defiance as…

Oblivea Present New Single ‘Black Sheep’

A classic 80s throwback, ObLiveA goes for a sheer intensity mixed with a hint of fun on the freewheeling “Black Sheep.” Krautrock-like rhythms, a hair-metal riff, and wild-eyed vocals tie the entire song together. Demanding it to be played as loudly as possible, there’s a stately grandeur to how they execute their vision. Everything here…

Ontologics with ‘It’s Safe To Say The Veil is Thinning (LP IV)’

Ontologics is full of surprises and never a dull moment when exploring the musical universe. The newest album titled ‘It’s Safe To Say The Veil is Thinning (LP IV)’ offers a wide variety of styles, influences and elements. Ontologics has been referred to as “tasty soup for all to enjoy” and this most certainly is…

Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds Come with ‘Limbs & All’

Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds are like a fine wine where standards are high and quality is present. This band is made up of five members and offers up an incredibly dynamic sound on the new release titled ‘Limbs & All’. This is the second album for Bec Taylor and the Lyrebirds and the material…

Tom Wavra ALL About ‘Back in the Day’

Tom Wavra takes us all on an exciting journey on the new release where we take a trip to ‘Back in the Day’. This EP is a long time coming for Wavra, 20 years to be exact, as ‘Back in the Day’ has come to light and is now open to the public. This record…