Music
Fine Arts
Comedy
This Fantasy Writer’s New Reality
Fashion
Esthetics
Literature
Ca$h Out: Where His Hit Single Is Taking Him Next AND INTRODUCING OUR NEW MUSIC COLUMNIST, MONET
FALL 2012 volume 2
Contributors Special thanks to the individuals who have contributed to the this issue of The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine!
James Haynes, Graphic Editor Gwendolyn Talbot, Editor/Writer Maria Bianco, Writer Chantel Atkins (CEO/Owner) I started The Rhythmic Lounge in December 2010. At its start, it was a fairly simple website with the purpose of giving people a place to promote their talents and network. I had no idea that less than two years later it would transform into something much bigger. The website then underwent a complete revamp in July 2011, with a brand new look and the addition of many new features, including the creation of The Rhythmic Lounge Radio. Following suit, the radio started out as merely a 24/7 stream of hand-picked music submitted by talented musicians from the website but is now an integral part of the company. Listeners from all over the world tune in regularly to hear the wide variety of music, as well as the educational, musical and talk-radio shows that we now host. The radio’s success has only made me realize The Rhythmic Lounge could take me in new directions everyday rather than the other way around, which is why a digital magazine seemed like the next step. I’m incredibly proud to present to you hardworking artists and entertainers in this magazine and on the site, so enjoy! Be sure to go to www.therhythmiclounge.com to see the profiles for the great talent displayed in this issue. Thanks for the support, and happy reading!
Lou Johnson, Writer William Kryjak, Writer Doug Mitchell, Writer Monet, Columnist Andreea Nica, Writer Patrick Ross, Writer K.P. Spright, Writer Barry Stein, Writer
The Rhythmic Lounge website, radio and magazine
are always looking to promote new talent, so don’t forget to join at www.therhythmiclounge.com
If you would like to be in the magazine, contact the email below.
magazine@therhythmiclounge.com
The Rhythmic Lounge Magazine
6 DJ Scotty B
38 Ricky DaVista
11 Mark Tierno (Maldene)
46 Diego Cash
22 Ca$h Out
54 Tena Williams
32 Oscar Black
66 Flying Lotus
DJ#Scotty#B#
#
by#Maria#Bianco#
Scott#Bowdoin,#perhaps#better#known#as#DJ#Scotty#B,#first#discovered#his#passion#for#the#musical#styling# of#disc#jockeying#in#1983#while#working#at#a#roller#rink#in#Perry,#Florida.#He#soon#made#his#way#from#the# roller#rink#to#the#entertainment#sphere,#making#appearances#on#AM#radio#stations#and#overseeing#his# own#mobile#DJ#company,#a#company#that#would#provide#the#pedestal#which#would#catapult#him#into# FM#radio#stations#such#as#Hot#104.9,#nightclubs#throughout#Florida#and#Georgia,#and#a#guest#DJ#spot#at# the#notable#and#highly#accredited#Studio#54#at#the#MGM#Grand#Hotel#in#Las#Vegas,#Nevada.#Soon#after# the#takeoff#of#his#DJ#career,#Scotty#B#ventured#to#pursue#his#passion#for#radio#and#television# broadcasting#at#the#Connecticut#School#of#Broadcasting#in#Davie,#Florida.## # Upon#graduating,#Scotty#B#continued#with#his#musical#endeavors,#spinning#at#various#house#parties#and# yacht#events,#until#finally#taking#a#break#from#music#to#make#a#life#with#his#wife#Lauren#in#New#Jersey.# But#after#six#years,#Scotty#B#has#returned#to#his#musical#roots#with#more#determination#than#ever.#He# currently#hosts#a#weekly#Internet#radio#show,#Digital#Response,#where#he#showcases#his#true#talent:#the# creation#and#fusion#of#sound#into#unified#pieces#of#music.#Unlike#DJs#who#use#a#laptop#or#virtual#DJ# programs#to#mix#their#sounds,#Scotty#B#maintains#a#raw,#old#school#style#using#CDs#and#mixing#onto#a# recording#program#called#Audacity.#Musically,#Scotty#B#finds#inspiration#in#a#variety#of#House#genres# ranging#from#Progressive#to#Funk#to#Vocal,#and#uses#these#styles,#among#others,#to#develop#completely# unique#and#electrifying#sounds.## # From#a#personal#stance,#Scotty#B#stresses#the#importance#of#reading#the#crowd#during#a#performance,# which#he#says#can#be#difficult#with#today’s#promoters#encouraging#artists#to#play#only#the#most#popular# hits.#Despite#the#struggles#he#has#seen#as#a#DJ,#Scotty#B#remains#a#musical#force#to#be#reckoned#with,# noting#the#necessity#in#keeping#a#balance#between#his#three#passions:#God,#his#wife,#and#music.#“God# gave#me#my#talents,#my#wife#supports#me#100#percent,#and#I#love#making#music#and#the#people#that# listen#and#support#the#show#–#this#is#why#I#do#what#I#do.”#So,#what’s#next#for#DJ#Scotty#B?#He#is#currently# learning#how#to#make#tracks#with#friend,#DJ#Apple,#a#DJ#and#producer#out#of#New#York#City.#“I#am# hoping#to#start#turning#out#some#banging#tracks#real#soon,”#he#says.# For#more#info#on#DJ#Scotty#B#or#to#check#out#the#Digital#Response,#visit:# • Wednesday#nights#at#8pm#PT,#11pm#Est.#USA#times;#4am#UK#times#at# ######www.sobelnationradio.com# • Thursdays#at#2pm#PT,#5pm#Est.#USA#times;#10pm#UK#times#at#www.insoulwetrust.com# • Friday#afternoons#at#2pm#PT,#5pm#Est.#USA#Times;#10pm#UK#Times#at#www.therhythmiclounge.com# • Saturday#afternoons#at#12pm#PT,#3pm#Est.#USA#times;#8pm#UK#times#at#www.northernb underground.co.uk# • Saturday#nights#at#7pm#PT,#10pm#Est.#USA#times;#3am#UK#times#on#www.wromradio.net# • Sunday#nights#at#6pm#PT,#9pm#Est.#USA#times;#2am#UK#times#on#www.party732.com# • Tuesday#afternoons#at#3pm#PT#6pm#Est.#USA#times;#11pm#UK#times#on#http://www.danceradio.ca/1# • Every#night#starting#at#7:30pm#PT,#10:30pm#Est.#USA#times;#3:30#UK#times# on#Radio#Bistro#at#http://www.tunein.com(show#runs#for#eight#hours#and#new#episodes#start#airing# Friday#nights;#search#Radio#Bistro)# # #
where creativity lives
F A L L / / 7
AppleSpaceBar by K. P. Spright
Modern or the classic rock, music stirs you, so we shed light on a Birmingham based modern rock band, AppleSpaceBar. They are creating hard edgy music beyond Alabama and the United States. The band members are Producer Ben Trexel, he also takes up the guitar, Johnny Nine leads vocals, Lake Trechsel beats the drums, Patrick Prantl strums the guitar and, Chipper Bonds harmonizes their creations with bass. Since their debut release in 2009, Welcome To The Dream, there has been no looking back. More CDs and music releases like “Songs You Might Like” in 2010 added feathers to their cap. Tangent Music Group Label has given a major exposure to this melodic, yet electrifying band. You can enjoy their music from I-‐Tunes, CD BABY and Rhapsody. Their mission, “to create each song as their first and last one, they wish to hold the listener with the soundscape of their guitar and rock music”, giving them the zing. The band was inspired by listening to the legends of rock like Aerosmith, Pink Floyd, CSN and Led Zepplin over years, says Producer Trexel. Driving music beyond the commercial market, this hottest band has introduced free harmonic song compositions. The latest release by AppleSpaceBar, Big in Japan released in January 2012 influences the listeners through entertainment and emotional rock element. Certainly songs are infectious, but AppleSpaceBar’s creations are delving way deeper in their fan’s hearts. The music of this band will stand the test of time and stay. Check out their latest releases right here: www.applespacebar.com. 8
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Robert Carvalho by William Kryjak Soul is a word that is thrown around far too often when referring to music. “That song was so soulful!” “That artist really had soul.” We know! Music without soul isn't music, but rather nonsense. Saying that music has soul is like saying a dictionary has words. It's redundant, unnecessary and a waste of time. Therefore, when I talk about the smooth, emotional grooves of Robert Carvalho, I won't be talking about soul because it goes without saying. Carvalho was born in Birmingham, England, and began teaching himself how to play music at age 14. From there he went on to form his band the Xtended Family, and has since gone on to collaborate with a number of artists within the UK and abroad. His repertoire includes a full spectrum from house to jazz, and his influences are just as varied as his output. "For me, music is all about self-expression, tapping into the inner senses and reshaping them in a way that engages the listener." Robert's diverse passion lives in every one of his songs, as well as his performances. It's not some generic idea of soul that drives him, but his love for music and what it means to him and the world around him. Check out just one of his songs, and be sold on all of them. http://www.versifymusic.com/
Mark Tierno – Author of Maldene by Maria Bianco A mystical world at the center of a galaxy not yet breached by mankind, a world full of sights, cultures, and people never seen before, a place where magic dwells – this is Mark Tierno’s setting for his novel Maldene, the first of thirteen novels that comprise the Maldene saga. The story blossomed in the shadows of adversity as a young Tierno watched his father suffer from Parkinson’s disease and in early adulthood was forced to pick up the pieces of his life after a fire destroyed his family’s home. But nothing could deter him from his love of writing. Upon completing the novel in 1996, Tierno sought an agent. He maintained his determination to move forward with the saga despite the many refusals from publishers who were unwilling to give an aspiring fantasy author a chance. After more than ten years of searching, his highly anticipated story is finally being told. The novel traces the paths of several adventurers who will explore the continents of Maldene; along the way, they will encounter twists and turns, mystical creatures, and a legendary evil that they may be forced, or destined to overcome. Armed with a passion for exploring the Universe and its infinite possibilities, Tierno has managed to create a story that captivates readers with wonderfully enchanting depictions of a mystic realm, venturesome journeys in a world of magic, and enticing dialogue between characters, all of which are sure to excite the adventurous and intrigue the curious. You can order your copy of Maldene at http://www.maldene.com
where creativity lives
F A L L / / 11
Jason Aparicio AKA DJ Apple
Apple was raised in a family of musicians and music enthusiasts. He inherited a massive collection of classic records ranging from Motown soul, Classic Rock, Latin Jazz, Disco, and Hip Hop. This spectrum of music inspired him to begin mixing sounds together. Eventually, using a 4 track recorder, he began circulating mix tapes and starting getting work doing mixes for dance and cheer squads which evolved into winning national championship mixes for his FSU dance and cheer squads. Perfecting his mixing skills as a DJ, Apple Locked down three long term residencies at the Underground Cafe, CPA, and Club Fire and Ice in Tallahassee, FLA where he graduated from FSU with a bachelors in Sociology. The next step was music production, which he quickly grasped and got signed to Funk Lab records. Shortly after releasing “Feel The Drums”, on Funk Lab, he started his own label, Extract Records. His first release, "Make Some Noise", earned the respect of Richard "Humpty" Vission who played this track live on MTV's "The Blame Game". His sound developed into a mix of big tribal with a splash of progressive and earned a spot on New York's heralded Knob Records with DJ Style.
His first release "Graveyard Shift", earned an "M8" with Europe's M8 magazine. He worked with Knob for several years releasing tracks, remixes, and eventually took over all graphic design and marketing journalism. Meanwhile on the DJ tip, he as racked up 4 Ultra Miami performances, which also entailed a staple in the massive Ultra promotion team. His journey as a DJ took him to places like New York, Seattle, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Jacksonville, Key West, Kansas City, New Orleans, and Orlando. In That span of time, Apple held down several Tampa/Saint Pete residencies. Apple has now relocated back to his hometown of Brooklyn, NY where he has been steadily working on solo material as well as collaborations with DJ Style. His other production venture is the formation of First Contact with Tampa DJ Colossal Brandon Battaglia. Current releases can be found on Funk Lab Records, which Apple has reconnected with. "The One And Only", which is an original work, a remix of Funk Lab's "Combustion", and his newest heavy hitter, "Tonight's The Night" have all hit the stores in the past year. Currently Apple is promoting for the Heavy and I'll House You parties in NYC with the Big Apple’s very own Oscar P. He is currently promoting for Oscar's labels, Open Bar Music, Heavy, and Afro Rebel. Oscar put his new mix on Open Bar Radio called, “Get Heavy with DJ Apple. You can also find him popping up on Fm radio shows like Digital Response out of Jersey with DJ Scotty B and Florida's longest running EDM show Zentripziteez with the Dood. Email: Applered21@aol.com mailto:Applerizzo123@gmail.com Social Media Links: http://www.facebook.com/jasondjapple http://www.soundcloud.com/psykoapple http://www.soundcloud.com/dj-‐apple-‐ny http://www.mixcloud.com/djappleny http://www.twitter.com/jasonappleapari Affiliates: http://www.Djstyle.com http://www.Funklabrecords.com http://www.Openbarmusicnyc.com
where creativity lives
F A L L / / 13
Eric Martinez
by#William#Kryjak
In#the#film#Love#Lies#Bleeding,#Eric#Martinez#plays#a#ruthless#gangster#who#takes#what# he#wants#without#hesitation.#While#Martinez#was#only#playing#a#character#and#is#not# known#as#a#criminal#in#real#life,#that#same#fearlessness#is#apparent#when#it#comes#to# his#career#as#an#actor,#personality,#and#public#speaker.# Starting#out#rather#modestly#as#an#extra#in#some#smaller#films,#he#has#steadily#risen# over#the#past#ten#years,#even#securing#a#leading#role#in#the#upcoming# horror/thriller#Sorrow.#He#has#played#alongside#actors#such#as#Gerard#Butler,# Christian#Slater,#and#Ice#Cube,#and#has#been#featured#in#the#popular#television#drama# “In#Plain#Sight.”#Martinez's#mettle#was#made#especially#apparent#when#he#was#set#up# to#compete#in#a#celebrity#boxing#match#against#the#infamous#DMX,#and#the#rapper# failed#to#even#show#up.#Martinez#has#hosted#Chicago's#Latino#fashion#week#and#made# his#mark#on#the#red#carpet#at#a#number#of#award#ceremonies#including:#the#Emmy# Awards,#the#Golden#Globes,#the#MTV#Awards,#Billboard#Awards,#and#the#Latin# Grammys.#Despite#often#playing#a#tough#guy,#his#charisma#and#strong#character#have# helped#develop#him#into#a#popular#personality.# Comfortable#on#a#variety#of#stages,#Eric#Martinez#is#able#to#use#his#celebrity#for#more# than#just#a#paycheck.#When#he#isn't#acting#he#serves#as#a#motivational#speaker#and# spokesperson#for#a#number#of#socially#conscious#organizations.#One#of#his#chief# campaigns#is#against#bullying,#serving#as#a#spokesperson#for#groups#like#Defeat#the# Label,#the#Rock#Star#Lions#in#Northeastern#Colorado,#and#“Bullying...We're#Kickin'#It!”# a#movement#organized#by#the#Rocky#Marciano#World#foundation.# While#his#work#takes#him#all#over#the#globe,#from#engagements#in#China,#Italy,#and#of# course#Los#Angeles,#New#Mexico#remains#his#home.#Participation#in#outreach#groups# like#the#Crisis#Center#of#New#Mexico#show#he#hasn't#forgotten#where#he#came#from,# and#he#continues#to#have#a#large#base#of#support#in#his#hometown#of#Albuquerque.# “It's#important#to#me#that#I#help#with#the#charitable#work#as#much#as#possible;#I#want# to#give#kids#the#same#opportunity#that#was#given#to#me.”#Eric#Martinez#is#not#afraid# to#work#hard#and#seize#opportunity.#If#he#can#give#back#with#that#same#power,#he#can# undoubtedly#be#considered#a#success#as#an#actor,#and#as#a#person.# You#can#also#visit#Eric’s#Facebook#Page,#Follow#him#on#Twitter#@therealericm#and# see#his#promo#reel#at:#http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_54f76spAnY# Press#Contact:#Dave,#Publicist#720_261_0968,#mailto:dave.designprint@gmail.com# Appearance#&#Booking#Contact:#Hawk,#Manager#720_323_3193,# mailto:downmag@tmo.blackberry.net#
where creativity lives
F A L L / / 15#
Pamela Benton by#William#Kryjak
# Country#stars#like#Pamela#Benton#are#hard#to#come#by#these#days.#In#an#industry#racked#with# tabloid#sensationalism#and#superstar#brats,#it's#refreshing#to#have#someone#down#to#earth# and#in#touch#with#real#values,#rather#than#the#ones#being#pushed#by#an#agent#or#label.# For#a#country#singer,#Pamela#has#a#unique#background.#While#America#remains#dear#to#her# heart,#she#was#actually#born#on#an# army#base#in#Germany.#Growing#up# abroad#she#listened#to#her#mother#sing# on#Radio#Free#Europe.#She#carried#the# inspiration#back#home#with#her#to# Kenova,#West#Virginia#and#made#a# name#for#herself,#earning#the#moniker# “Princess#of#the#Troops.”# Pamela's#voice#is#sweet,#with#the#kind# of#honest#expressiveness#that#is#as# endearing#as#it#is#a#pleasure#to#listen# to.#It#seems#as#though#Major#League# Baseball's#Tampa#Bay#Rays#agreed,#as# they#asked#her#to#sing#the#national# anthem#on#opening#day,#a#true#honor.# In#addition#to#giving#the#gift#of#her# music#to#the#world,#Pamela#has#been# featured#as#a#model#in#Women's# Worldmagazine,#as#well#as#other# publications,#and#has#even#modeled#on# the#Home#Shopping#Network.#When# she's#not#busy#performing,#it's#right# back#to#what#is#held#dearest#to#her# heart#–#those#fighting#for#us#overseas.# She#constantly#gives#back#not#only#with#her#music,#but#also#by#putting#together#and#shipping# packages#to#our#troops.# Honest,#sweet,#and#moving#are#all#words#that#only#begin#to#describe#Pamela#Benton.#Go#to# http://www.pamelabentonmusic.com/#and#listen#for#yourself,#and#be#moved#by#her# powerful#message.#
where creativity lives
F A L L / / 17
Alex Medina (Music Producer) Seattle, WA
Alex Medina a.k.a. MIDI-NA is a fresh, new music producer from Seattle, WA. CEO of the Indie publishing firm Medina Inc., he has established himself as a world class Hip-Hop beats producer for TV and film for major national & international TV networks.
Medina recently did a compelling interview with The Portland Pick in which he explains his amazing story to the world. He of course continues making music: he has a new rap album decorated by special guest appearances like Super Bowl Champ Stacey Andrews of the NY Giants and the homies SUN Zoolife/GUNIT and Lady Marga MC (London UK). MIDI-NA clarifies that he will never stop producing original, licensed beats and collaborating with the best new and unknown artists in the world. Be sure to keep an eye on MIDI-NA as he and his crew attempt to take over the world!
NEW RAP: EXPLICIT www.reverbnation.com/midina
NEW RAP BEATS/RINGTONES: www.iTunes.com/100BanginBeats (Top Seller on iTunes)
Also be sure to check out Alex Medina’s interview on YouTube with The Portland Pick!
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www.therhythmiclounge.com
The Music Transformation By: Monet
“I can’t get that song out of my head.” Have you ever said that to
like they use to. In addition, if the artist is not able to transition and
yourself, when at any given moment you find yourself humming the
create a new sound for their new audience, life in the spotlight as they
chorus to that song you heard on the radio? These days, now more
know it will be sure to undergo a major metamorphosis.
than ever, music has to stand out and be able to captivate an audience; it needs to have a certain adhesive quality that allows it to stick in our memory bank. Popular (pop) music especially has succeeded in doing just that. So much so that artists and songwriters from other genres are integrating or crossing over altogether. Think about it, within the last two years or so, hip hop, techno, R&B, neo-‐soul and even country artists have created a more “mainstream” feel within their music.
Artists however, at the very least attempt to make every effort to include their now more “advanced” listening audience in the music they create. Hence, the ever changing roles and sounds of pop music. Like I said earlier, pop artists, or rather artists in general that experience this same phenomenon, tend to find themselves a part of music charts that they may have never had an interest with at the start of their careers. Collaboration tends to keep artists fresh and new, and in my opinion, it
Pop music over the years has seen a number of evolutions since the
opens doors, not only for new experiences, but new and creative ideas
turn of the millennium. Music has changed from what was known as
for mass appeal. Pop stars, as they are referred, find themselves
“bubble gum” pop music with an influx of boy bands and teen queens
alongside artists ranging from country to techno and dub step
and sugary lyrics, to a more edgy, less “gummy” sound as the years
influences, crossing over to a whole new audience. Not only are cross
progressed and the teen idols and their audiences grew up. I guess that
genre collaborations increasing, but integration into songs themselves is
is partly to blame for the ever changing sound of pop music, artists
on the rise. R&B, hip hop and pop songs especially have been recently
emerge to the pop music scene, usually at a younger age, typically as
heard infusing techno and dub-‐step influence into their beats. Artists
teenagers. These artists appeal to a mass audience of teenage
like Rihanna, Nicki Minaj, Usher, Flo Rida to name a few, have strong
followers (and younger) and their rise to fame is greatly accelerated.
ties with techno sounds in their more recent chart toppers.
They too are able to stay on top as long as the music they release is within the realm of what their fans are used to.
Artists that are currently apart of the music scene, or those looking to break barriers and be music’s next hottest thing should always stay on
However, there comes a time when not only the artist themselves, but
top of the trends. Not only are artists to stay atop the trends, but they
the audiences they so greatly appealed to, gets older. It’s a natural
must be all about change, change for the better and thinking outside
aspect of life, as persons grow older and more mature, their taste in
the box. Pop music is synonymous with change, one either has to have
everything, including music also matures/changes and artists that were
the ability to adjust or find themselves left behind…in the dust!
once on top of the charts now have a hard time amassing an audience
Evan%Levy
by#George#Ryland
Canadian sculptor Evan Levy uses cold-rolled, steel sculpture to create elemental form. This type of steel has colors, unlike aluminium. He takes inspiration from his homeland and within to create sculptures that look like they have been stripped down to their inner workings. These are the kind of objects that can portray many different meanings to different people. Beauty, as always, is in the eye of the beholder, but it must be said that these are aesthetically pleasing works that are both bold and attractive. Levy avoids making any particular reference in his works, either historical or art. devoted to Canadian and water’ being powerful influences. He organic and non-organic subject matter, create an image that is fragile and yet Steel#Rain#Series#1#
He is very much images; ‘wind veers between using the steel to strong.
Having had his first serious show in 1984, Levy has since had his work shown in many international solo and group Terra#Nova#Series#III# exhibitions. He attended the Ontario College of Art but was asked to leave for what he calls “building unacceptable sculpture, which at the time were universally rejected. That’s what happens when you step outside the box in the Art world.” Returning to his art eight years later, this very style had become the trend and he began to have his work shown in major galleries. Perhaps it is this fickle nature of the art world that has made him a critic; he remains opposed to the need of many to compare works and make art-historical references.
Steel#Rain#Series#4#
20
Obviously a strong character, this extraordinary sculptor is at his best when he is most bizarre. Toronto Star, art critic Christopher Hume has interpreted his work as the “symbolic representation of an ideal condition, perhaps even of perfection.” Check out his work at http://www.evanlevysculpture.com
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The Rhythmic Lounge Radio Streaming 24/7 with a wide variety of music from talented musicians from The Rhythmic Lounge Website! Also, be sure to check out one of our many educational, music and talk-radio shows!
http://www.therhythmiclounge.com Fridays 5-7pm EST “Digital Response Show” with DJ Scotty B The Hottest House music show in the World…DJ Scotty B showcases his mixing abilities of different genres of House Music and Shines the Guest DJ Spotlight on the Best International DJs in the world.
Fridays 9-10pm EST “Crowd Control Radio Hour” with DJ Chemo The hottest Hip hop, R&B, Reggae, Soca and exclusive, unreleased urban tracks all mixed by DJ Chemo for your listening pleasure. It’s a full hour of exciting, new and classic mixes with a different theme. Guest artists and DJ’s are also featured on a regular basis. Tune in and enjoy the Crowd Control vibe!
Saturdays 11am-12pm EST “Total Education Hour” with Neil Haley The Total Education Hour is an education talk show which interviews interesting guests like education authors, experts and celebrities that provide education tips, news, latest information on their foundation or charity. The Total Education Hour is the talk shop for teachers, parents, and administrators.
Saturdays 5-6pm EST “The Independent Music Show” with Tom Lambert The Independent Music Show does exactly what it says on the tin...plays the independent music of artists and writers from all over the world. The show features music from Real Country, Rock, Rhythm & Blues and whatever you the listener, would like to hear. Of course you will hear some mainstream music on the show, but you will find it hard to figure out who’s on big budget production and who isn’t because the Independents are as good and in some cases better, than the mainstream.
Sundays 7-8pm EST “A Bowl of Soul” with Terry Ferguson Displaying a wide variety of R&B ranging from 1949 to today, A Bowl of Soul, A Mixed Stew of Soul Music™ gives the listener a crash course in the history and background of R&B through the years. This show covers Gospel, Blues, Jazz, Hip Hop, and Rock music. A Bowl of Soul takes listeners on a trip through history from the past to the present, highlighting singers, songwriters, arrangers and composers who have contributed to this music genre and also features the new rising stars in R&B from the U.S. and abroad.
Sundays 9-10pm EST “Detroit Sessions” with DJ Steve Ra Detroit Sessions displays a blend of sounds from up and coming Detroit talent and veterans, including Techno, House, Booty Bass, Electro House, Dubstep, Ghettotech, and more. This is the perfect show for all of you EDM fans.
Ca$h%Out
by#Doug#Mitchell
While Atlanta is best known for its high range summer temperatures and popular Braves baseball team, it can also be credited for bringing forth some of the most talented rap artists. Braves in their own right, these young, hungry MC’s have been doing a lot more than just putting their city on lock, they’ve also locked the Billboard charts! Being a young entertainer has its advantages. The ambitious lifestyle of fast money, girls and cars can be a gamble, therefore; one must know when to actually “cash out.” Epic Records newest signee Ca$h Out has done just that. In a genre clustered with one hit wonders and annoying ringtone rappers, Ca$h Out has surpassed the expectations of his doubters. In fact, he’s proceeded to move forward regardless of the setbacks he’s suffered in his past.
Hailing from Columbus, Georgia, John-Michael “Ca$h Out” Gibson was raised by both of his parents. His father, Michael Gibson, aka Michael Soul, was a radio personality for WFXE Foxie 105 in Columbus, Georgia. Although his fathers’ musical background and work ethic influenced him to practice his craft, Ca$h Out moved to Atlanta with his mother when he was a teenager. As a misguided youth, he roamed the harsh streets of Atlanta in search of the almighty dollar. It wasn’t long before the reckless lifestyle landed him in trouble with the law for gun possession and was thankfully acquitted of the charge in 2009. Realizing he had received a second chance at life, he chose to pursue his dreams of being an artist. Now being signed to independent label Bases Loaded, the newly focused Ca$h Out quickly circulated a buzz in the streets with his It’s My Time mixtape which featured the single Cashin’ Out and it eventually got into the hands of Epic Records head honcho L.A. Reid. Reid, who is responsible for introducing Mariah Carey, Pink, Usher, TLC, Ne-Yo, Rick Ross, Toni Braxton and Kanye West to the world, requested to have a meeting with Ca$h Out. Ca$h performed a song titled Smilin’ in My Face which convinced Reid to sign him right away.
Deciding to strike while the iron was hot, L.A. Reid re-released Ca$h Out’s single Cashin’ Out and it became an instant hit, reaching number 1 on the “Billboard Hot 100.” His debut album titled Patience is scheduled to debut under the Epic Records umbrella in December. The album is sure to have limited guest appearances in order to display his “swag” and true abilities. With a hot single and many more to come, it’s clear that the ATL go-getter is determined and here to stay. Tell the competition to beware; all bets are off unless you got CA$H!
To find out more info about Ca$h Out go to http://www.Cashoutofficial.com http://www.Twitter.com/therealcashout, http://www.Facebook.com/cashoutofficial and Cashoutofficial.tumblr.com.
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SuperbMuzicProductions by by George Ryland SuperbMuzicProductions George Ryland Anyone who thought independent music was fading away a few years ago could easily have been forgiven; the writing did seem to be the wall with so many labels closing. However, it has had a strong resurgence since, taking on a role that majors cannot or will not, backing the artists that aren’t made to be pop darlings or guaranteed cash cows. SuperbMuzicProductions, founded in 2004, has weathered all the storms financially and musically since then and continues to champion the smaller artists. This “one-‐stop” multifunctional operation was started by Herb Partlow and provides a range of music services to independent Bay Area artists. He aims to bring together the like minded in order to fill the gap left by the majors. Long may Herb and those like him continue!
Carla Jo Carr by Lou Johnson Carla Jo Carr by Lou Johnson
A great man once said, “If you hang in there long enough, you will win.” Well, Carla Jo Carr must’ve been listening when he said it because this rural songstress just keeps on hangin’ on! And, finally, she’s winning’! Adaptability may be the reason why. Since starting out in the late 70’s in her father and brother’s band, Country Express, the former National Teenage Pageant winner has shifted, chameleon-‐like, from country to gospel and back again. The small-‐ town, Tennessee girl was speeding down the road to bigger things with the release of her first album, A Country’s Girl Dream in ’84. But fate would intervene, and it would be thirteen years before the release of God is still the One. When the title track landed at number five on the US Gospel News Charts, Carla Jo’s career enjoyed a much-‐needed resurgence. Three years after her hiatus, she was nominated for a Grammy for her gospel hit, “Because of Your Mercy”. These days, she can be found belting out country crooners with her father and brother’s “Silver Wings Band”. As Mick Jagger once sang, “Time waits for no one”. Be sure to check out Carla’s website http://www.carlajocarr.com
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Blow_flyy
by George Ryland
Anthony Grant, aka Blow_flyy, is a Canadian songwriter and artist. He has been on the underground scene in his homeland for some time and has released two independent, selffinanced albums. Now signed by GJManagement, he is determined to release his music internationally as well as in Canada. As is often the case with indie artists, he takes full advantage of social and music networking sites and does as many interviews and showcases as he can. He refers to his music as hip-hop/pop as he likes to add a pop twist to the hip-hop he has spent years perfecting. Blow_flyy’s voice is smooth and deep, ideal for the genre. Luck will need to come into play with so many artists competing for airtime and sales, but he is as strong a contender as anyone else currently on the scene. To listen, go to http://www.itsmyurls.co m/blowflyy
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Micole Williams by K.P. Spright Movies act as a window into a land of imagination that at times gives a glimpse of reality. Micole Williams is one filmmaker based in Houston, Texas; who is turning every stone of originality through her work. Storytelling was her gift since the age of 3, however movies deeply intrigued her too; an annual competition in school directed her towards being a serious writer. Well known for her novel Tangled Web of True Love Tales, she integrates visuals to her words in unique ways. This novel based movie was her first premiere at Landmark River Oaks Theatre. Empowered with a Mass Communications major from Prairie View A&M University, Micole honed her talent by producing many television shows, campus news and also serving as a public radio personality. Initial work as a producer and focussed interest in Journalism begun Micole’s journey to fame. After three short films, few stage productions, artistic ventures as well as media projects, Micole advanced her vision to new vistas. She worked on “Mary Kay Inspiring Stories” as producer, as well as on writing ventures such as A Lovely Afternoon and Comedy Planet. As she targets on “focused film fun”, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) embraced her creations with great enthusiasm. Micole is currently working on a sequel to the novel as well as varied film assignments. Keep browsing for more news on this rising filmmaker! http://will-m-power.blogspot.com YouTube@twotltseries
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ESNAVI
!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
by#William#Kryjak
Countless people move to The Big Apple with dreams of becoming a star. While most only dream of achieving this goal, there are others who not only succeed, but also have a bright future ahead of them. Eclectic, soulful, natural, authentic, vivacious, and intriguing, these are the words that make up the name ESNAVI, but they can only begin to describe her unique sound. Her music is labeled as RnB, but it is so much more. In fact, she even performed a freestyle of her song “Ding Ding” with the legendary Rahzel. “I belong on stage. This is my home. It's where I connect to the audience with my live energy,” said Esnavi. Her tenacious personality and undeniable work ethic have led her to this place. It will be exciting to see where ESNAVI goes from here. With performances at the Taste of Soul Music Festival, Essence Music Festival, CMJ Music Festival and more to come, it is clear ESNAVI has landed on the scene. Licensing deals with H&M, Old Navy, Ann Taylor, Nine West and Arden B means we'll be seeing even more of her. “Start spreading the news!” Be sure to check out her website at http://www.esnavi.com
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Oscar Black
by George Ryland
Hip-‐hop is not an easy world to conquer. For every person that makes it, many more never get their lucky break. Oscar Black is one of the lucky, and of course talented ones. Another usual character trait in those that can pave a career in hip-‐hop is a strong work ethic. This, Oscar Black has by the truckload. He’s been rhyming for around a decade now, with the likes of Jay-‐Z, Nas and 50 Cent as inspiration. Hartford, CT is his stomping ground and he is determined to stay and work his way up, because as he puts it “I want people to come here, because I would be taken more serious as an artist if they came to me as opposed to me going to them.” This is a man who is serious about what he wants and how he will get there. Talent and luck play a huge part in this world but planning seems to count even more. Already having opened for artists like Sean Kingston and Young Jeezy around Hartford, he has attracted a local following. Known for his stage presence and sheer energy, he has that much sought after connection with an audience that can’t be faked. His latest singles have been doing very well on local stations, many of which he has been interviewed on already. No stranger to a busy schedule, in the last few years he has released four albums, gigged, collaborated, remixed and promoted himself. On top of all that, he has built up an independent framework to support a production unit known as Cash Squad Entertainment. He certainly will not find it a problem should he ever be encouraged to get clothing and aftershave lines in production! To find out more and listen to Oscar Black’s work, you can find him on Facebook, www.facebook.com/oscarblack, http://www.twitter.com/MrOscarBlack and his main website http://www.oscarblack.com. If all goes as it should, you’ll be hearing a lot more of him in the near future!
http://www.reverbnation.com/burningbrainstheband www.myspace.com/535416394
Aisling O’Reilly
by George Ryland
Ireland has produced a great many singing talents over the and it’s looking like another star has been born. A strong combined with a pretty face, welcome Aisling O’Reilly to the world. Her first single “Stay”, was released last year to great accolade and her latest track, “Soldier 552”, features Jamaican star Bambino. Reminiscent of stars like Rihanna Jessie J, Aisling has a great range, which enables her to sing ballads or edgier pop tracks and works so well on her recent collaboration.
years voice pop
and soulful
In 2010 she took part in a talent show in London, which saw her snapped up by music mogul Winston Hislop, CEO of Bluejeanz Records. Her gigs are getting bigger as is her following; this young lady could well be mapping out a place on the international stage. To listen, check out http://www.reverbnation.com/theofficialaislingoreilly.
Wendy Lynn Snider by George Ryland Sometimes people with great voices sing songs that we can all relate to but that tell us nothing about them. Other times you get singers like Wendy Lynn Snider! Her songs are full of her life; the true love she has found, her Christian beliefs and her devotion to music. They also reflect her musical background, having grown up listening to country classics in a family full of musicians. Her second, self-titled album blends country and gospel beautifully and features three songs co-written with her husband Curtt, who encouraged her to share her talent. At the age of 45 she started going to open mic nights and recorded her first album in 2010. Her husband’s unwavering belief has proved well founded; Wendy Lynn has been nominated for the 2012 Niagara Music Awards Female Vocalist and Country Band of the Year and won the Country Bank of the Year award. To read more about Wendy, be sure to check out her website at www.wendylynnsnider.ca where creativity lives
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Ricky “Trendy” DaVista
by Andreea Nica
“Wear what you fear” is a central theme of the Ricky “Trendy” Da’Vista style and creation. The idea that fashion develops identity is one that Ricky promoted. Shortly after graduating from Virginia State University, he began helping people augment their individuality through wardrobe selection and accessories beginning with his exuberant eyewear. Fashion communicates status, fosters talent, and generates entertainment. Da’Vista Shades display these characteristics in spades and with spikes. In consuming fashion and trends, we covet the admiration of our peers. Ricky Da’Vista has accomplished this in the fashion world, a competitive market for gurus and creators, working with Lil Kim on her 2010 New Years accessories, Tionna Smalls (What Chilli Wants 2) and many other icons. Even with his new found fame, Da’Vista stays humble and true in how to grow his brand by still working a 9-5 while pursuing an ever expanding client base in Connecticut and New England. Ricky Da’Vista, being an expert networker, is connected to the pulse of Hartford, Connecticut, but he’s beginning to branch out. You can find Ricky Da’Vista’s trends at fashion shows nationwide, with the chance of even brushing shoulders with him in New York City. He has been featured in many fashion blogs and magazines, and continues to spread his impassioned fashion expertise in all areas of the industry. As a fashionista on the edge of innovation, he draws his inspiration from icons like Lady Gaga, meshing together the psychology of fashion with his stylistic forte to produce his top of the line merchandise. Ricky Da’Vista understands his accessories are radical, without barriers. He designs accessories that underscore the unassailable confidence and style of the wearer. If you can stand the scrutiny of “wearing what they fear,” check out what Ricky is working on now. Visit his website
Twitter @CtStylist
Check out his portfolio
where creativity lives
Connect with him on Facebook
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Paula Andrea Pyle -‐ Cosmic Therapy by Maria Bianco
Imagine having the ability to truly understand your deepest self through the lens of the cosmic gates, to overcome all pre-‐existing notions of behavior and self, and to figure out what it is that you really want out of this life you have been given. Enter the world of Paula Andrea Pyle, a highly skilled Cosmic Therapist who uses her own experiences and understanding of the universe to create portals through which others can understand themselves and the life path that they desire to take. Pyle has written numerous esoteric articles for various online publications such as Article Alley, E-‐zine Articles, and her blog Mode of Cosmic Therapy. Her aim is to impart upon her readers and supporters psychological wisdom from her own metaphysical knowledge and experience. In addition to her therapeutic endeavors, Pyle has given a voice to those dealing with the emotional repercussions of a romantic relationship as a motivational speaker and has also used her MA in Art Education to create unique and captivating pieces of artwork using an esoteric perspective, which ties into her Mode of Cosmic Therapy expertise. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Educational Psychology in Adult Learning and is busy promoting a perfume line called, “Zabania Perfume.” For more information about Paula Andrea Pyle, to explore art or line of fragrances, or to connect socially, visit:
http://www.zabania.com/Home_Page.php http://www.paulaandreapyle.com http://www.lampmagicpublishing.com http://www.facebook.com/#!/paula.a.pyle http://twitter.com/paulaandrea http://fineartamerica.com/profiles/paula-‐andrea-‐pyle.html
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DJ Chemo!! by!George!Ryland! !
Dr. Dre once said in an interview “my mom has pictures of me at four years old at the turntable, reaching up to play the records. I feel like I was bred to do what I do.” Some musicians do seem to have something in their blood…a talent and passion they were born with. DJ Chemo has had a love of music from a similarly young age, when he learned to play an impressive total of ten different instruments, including guitar, bass, piano and saxophone. At the age of 8 he received a 4-track recorder, using it to record demos, he discovered a love of producing which is still evident to this day. He later attended Berklee College of Music, studying both music and business and has written and sold numerous songs over the years. He then went on to make tracks and remixes for the likes of Lil Jon, Mob Deep, J-Kwon and Philly’s Most Wanted. In 1998 he discovered another passion: turntables. Having been a member of the band Nervesaw and through that collaborating with Prophets of Rage (touring with Coolio and Megavier amongst others and releasing two albums), he came across their DJ, DJ Superjam, who was one half of Crowd Control. Chemo perfected the art of dj’ing and subsequently replaced DJ Doctone when he left Crowd Control. Together, he and DJ Superjam have worked with an impressive list of musicians, including some of the biggest names in hip-hop in recent years. This list includes Fatman Scoop, Redman, Method Man and DJ Jam (Dr Dre, Snoop Dogg). Adding yet another string to his bow, he has worked as a DJ or master of ceremonies at a plethora of events including the Splash Festival and Turkish National Talent Contest. The list does not end there though. He hosts a popular, weekly show on The Rhythmic Lounge Radio, has regular shows for stations like Radio X, guest spots on those such as Big FM and Planet Radio and is currently an official Coast2Coast mixtape DJ. Add to that his tour dates globally with Crowd Control and the constant perfecting of his art, from adding in live instruments such as guitar and percussion to creating intense party atmosphere, and you have a very busy schedule. Another passion of his, reminiscent of music greats like Dre, is that he is keen to promote up and coming artists. Unlike some in the public eye, he is not one to try and keep others down in fear of them becoming future competition. Instead, he does all he can to get their names and music out there with his own, as is evident from his MySpace page alone. Just to add to this hectic schedule, he is producing three albums, which are to be released in the next two month. One album is for Wowski, another for F.O.U.R and the third is the debut album from Crowd Control. Though it is hard work to manage all of this alongside creating some great parties, DJ Chemo is a permanent fixture on the music scene and one that is set to continue to rise to the top. Find out more and listen at http://www.djchemo.com or http://www.facebook.com/djchemo.
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Diego&Cash&
by#Doug#Mitchell
&&&&&&&&&
&
&
In#order#to#be#a#relevant#competitor#in#the#music#genre#known#as#rap,#an#individual#must#possess#two#main# ingredients.#First#there’s#the#flow,#the#flow#is#the#ability#to#deliver#lyrics#to#a#distinct#beat#or#rhythm.#Next#there# comes#credibility,#and#while#many#rappers#may#display#the#flow,#very#few#actually#have#the#credibility#to#claim#a# permanent#spot#in#the#rap#game.#It#takes#a#different#breed#of#individual#to#capture#the#attention#of#the#crowd#with#a# charismatic#flow#and#still#be#respected#amongst#their#peers.#Puerto#Rican#rapper#Diego#Cash#represents#this#breed.# The#East#Atlanta#rhymeG#spitter#has#earned#the#title#of#“most#anticipated”#when#it#comes#to#his#hardcore#grind#on#the# music#scene.#However,#his#future#didn’t#always#seem#so#bright.# Christian#”Diego#Cash”#Vasquez#spent#his#childhood#in#some#of#the#most#culturally#diverse#boroughs#of#New#York.#It# was#in#Brooklyn#that#Diego#and#his#sister#where#raised#by#their#Nuyorican#parents,#and#it#was#also#in#Brooklyn#where# he#first#discovered#his#love#for#music.#While#there#he#experienced#mixed#genres#of#music#such#as#Salsa,#Meringue#and# timeless#soul#tunes.#Although#the#music#inspiration#stuck#with#him,#he#soon#relocated#to#the#East#Flatbush#section#of# Brooklyn#with#his#sister#and#mother#after#his#parents#separated.#The#predominantly#African#American#population#in##
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Flatbush#showcased#new#sounds#of#R&B#and#Reggae,#which#Diego#soaked#up#like#a#sponge.#After#moving#one#more# time#to#Piscataway,#New#Jersey,#Diego#left#the#East#and#went#to#Eastside#Atlanta#in#pursuit#of#his#musical#endeavors#in# 1996.### Formerly#going#by#the#moniker#“Berg”,#Diego#Cash#decided#to#change#his#name#after#being#confused#with#Chicago# rapper#“Yung#Berg.”#Just#when#it#seemed#Diego#was#within#an#arm’s#length#of#reaching#his#destination,#devastation# arose.#In#2003#Diego#Cash#was#shot#several#times#outside#of#a#gas#station#in#Decatur,#Georgia.##The#shocking#turn#of# events#truly#tested#the#heart#and#courage#of#Cash#as#he#went#through#numerous#reconstructive#surgeries#in#which#he# was#bed#ridden#for#three#painful#months.#Three#months#confined#to#a#bed#gave#Diego#a#new#perspective#on#life.#Once# rehabilitated,#he#trekked#full#steam#towards#the#career#he#was#once#derailed#from.#Record#Executives#and#Industry# folk#alike#took#notice#as#Diego#Cash#went#on#full#assault#to#dominate#the#mixtape#circuit.#The#Puerto#Rican#survivalist# proved#he#was#ready#for#all#comers#as#he#dropped#three#exclusive#mixtapes#with#DJ#Paperboi.#Cash%on% Delivery,#Flypaper#and#800%Bodies%were#laced#with#explosive#tracks#that#depicted#the#abrasive#life#of#the#Brooklyn# born#native.#Soon#his#“up#north”#flow#and#witty#southern#drawl#caught#the#attention#of#fellow#rappers#that#wished#to# work#with#him.#It#even#caught#the#attention#of#NBA#player#Carmelo#Anthony.#Carmelo,#who#is#married#to#Diego’s# sister#Alani#Vasquez,#aka#“LaLa#Anthony”#from#the#popular#VH1#reality#show#“LaLa’s#Full#Court#Life,”#signed#Cash#to# his#Krossover#Entertainment#imprint.# Featured#appearances#on#BET#and#MTV#shows#such#as#“Sucka#Free#Sunday”,#“Spit#Ya#Game”#and#“Mixtape#Daily”# enabled#Diego#to#network#with#talent#of#a#higher#caliber.#He#appeared#on#the#controversial#“Satellite#Show”#with#DJ# Kay#Slay#and#even#collaborated#with#DJ#Drama#on#the#infamous#“Gangsta#Grillz”#series.#His#other#mixtapes#Grind% Season,#Kill%Ya%Self%and#Honorable%Mention%have#received#heavy#rotation#in#clubs#and#the#underground#scene.#The# debut#album#on#Krossover#Entertainment#titled#Language%Arts%features#an#allGstar#roster.#Names#such#as#Rick#Ross,# Fat#Joe,#Raheem#Devaughn,#Styles#P,#Jadakiss,#Cassidy#and#Macy#Gray#are#certain#to#make#Diego#Cash’s#official# introduction#one#to#remember.# To#find#out#more#about#Diego#Cash#go#to#http://www.ThisisDiegoCash.com,#http://www.Twitter.com/DiegoCash,# http://www.Facebook.com/ThisisDiegoCash,#http://www.Krossoverent.com#
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TruSista)))))))))))))))))))))))WWW.THETRUNIVERSE.COM ! TruSista,!Born!Melody!Craig,!The!Erotica8Spiritualist,!addresses!the!unique!part!of!words,!to!mesmerize! the!mind.!She!is!the!inspirer!of!black!power,!knowledge!of!freedom,!erotica!and!spirituality,!since!the! age!of!10.!Her!journey!included,!opening!acts!on!stages!for!the!most!famous!Erykah!Badu,!at!the!Black! Forest!Theater!in!Dallas,!Texas,!Amazing!acts!with!Mojoe,!the!ghetto!classic!soul!artist!of!San!Antonio,! TX.!!She!has!performed!at!over!200!venues.!This!Poetess!has!been!seasoned!with!the!spices!of!social!and! political!issues.!Her!straight!to!the!point!demeanor!has!leaded!her!to!join!with!the!soul!of!many!artists! around!the!world,!expressing!the!knowledge!she!has!gained!over!the!years.!This!old!soul!has!mastered! the!art!of!poetry!through!living!a!truthful!life!of!too!many!wrongs!and!too!many!rights,!which!turned! into!wisdom.!Still!searching!to!find!that!one!ear!to!inspire!into!stardom!Tru,!has!hosted!many!venues.! She!was!a!member!of!the!lyrical!group,!Poetically!Correct,!and!Knewbia!Constellation,!along!beside! Topcat,!and!Mocha!Blue!Blaze.!Starting!out!with!the!jazz!artist!Makalani!Jones,!TruSista‘s!poetry!has! grown!through!many!artists,!Including!husband!Lsg!and!Rodney!Wright,!Malaco!recording!artist.!Her! participation!in!the!poetry!venue!of!Black!Thoughts!at!the!well!known!Pamoja!Cultural!Arts!Museum,! introduced!to!not!just!poets!but!artists!like!Walter!Washington!a!visionary!artist!in!the!Shreveport,!La! area.!TruSista,!now!manages!groups,!in!her!hometown!Shreveport,!La.!! The!Louisiana!native!currently!owns!TruNiVerse!Productions,!the!mother!of!2!princesses!and!1!prince.! Currently!working!on!a!romance!novel,!and!song!writing,!TruSista!is!determined!to!get!the!word!out,! doesn’t!matter!if!it’s!on!CD,!DVD,!or!even!out!the!mouth!of!beings,!repeating!the!verses!and!lyrics,!she! writes.!TruSista!the,!former!owner!of!Whaz!Da!Word!Magazine,!which!was,!a!benefit!to!the!communities! of!all!states,!but!mostly!focused!on!Shreveport,!Louisiana.!Tru!began!to!envision!herself!on!stage!not! only!performing!but!hosting,!a!brilliant!idea.!She!has!hosted!several!venues,!Chocolate!City,!along!with! MaKalani!Jones,!Pamoja,!alongside!Rodney!Wright,!Knewbia!Constellation,!alongside!TopCat,!and!Mocha! Blue!Blaze.!But,!wasn’t!satisfied!hosting!just!poets,!she!wanted!more.!TruSista!and!Topcat!began!to! travel!and!explore!and!decided!to!launch,!what!is!now!history!and!success!where!they!created! TruNiVerse!Open!Mic!started!inside!the!famous!doors!of!Full!Moon!Bistreaux.!TruSista!now!manages,! host,!perform,!promote,!write!lyrics!and!hook!lines!and!bios!for!several!artists.!She!currently!will!be! releasing!a!collaboration!album,!with!Anthony!Hooker!of!Hot!Attik!Studio!in!Shreveport,!Louisiana!and! has!a!Radio!Show!on!KHAMADIO.COM!A!Queen!in!stride,!Tru!is!on!a!mission!to!SUCCESS!
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Nick%Elliot%- Shooting Rock ‘n’ Roll by#Barry#Stein#
Nick Elliot started out long ago, the same way that many musicians start out. A musician studies the classical ways, practices the bare bones of the art and once they master the scales, chords and timing they can break out and express themselves with their own voice. Nick started the same way as any musician with the basics of darkroom photography and just shooting birds, flowers or anything around. He graduated over time into Press Photography and then onto finding his unique style of Rock Photography. We’re not talking about rock photography like in geology. We are talking about capturing the intimate essence of superstars. Add onto that the layers and layers of technical capability to capture movements in dark noisy places, at bizarre angles and with virtually no light, and you get the idea of the kind of Avantgarde photography that is Nick Elliot. Any artist, be they a musician or photographer learns how to channel the work through them, so when it comes out it’s pure and untouched from the creative !Slash!S.11.02!(c)!Nick!Elliott! source. Not only is Nick that photographic performer, ! but he captures those precious moments of expression when a rock star whips his creative out and makes history. It’s at that exact moment that Nick Elliot presses the shutter and preserves the thrill of music mastery. His photographs are more like catching spirit in motion, rather than the human vessels who sing and play guitar. Nick’s fine art of photography has cataloged bands and rockers ranging from Metallica, Thin Lizzy and ZZ Top all the way to Joan Baez and Art Garfunkel. For over twenty-five years, Elliot has toured with bands, created album covers and filled galleries all over the globe. He is particularly fond of the fundamentals of photography as he objects to the idea that just anyone can capture greatness with an expensive digital camera. Nick Elliot of course is in the right place at the right time to capture our Rock Gods and Goddesses. And sure, just their image alone in the least of appealing context is enough to give a blind person chills. But when they are at the heat of their performance and in the worst possible photographic conditions, that’s where Nick shines above all others. The perfect composition, unique focusing, expertly managing the light and balancing the black with white, Nick conducts the singers and the band with his instrument…his camera. Stunning shots in smoky low light capture action and portraits like no other, with the creativity of a National Geographic photographer hunting his prey, dancing about on the precarious stage above. Like most musicians who carve their niche by finding a combination of notes that’s never been played before, Nick too has created his own Avant-garde feeling of the Rock n Roll genre, that transfers the emotions of being at a live performance onto a printed photo.
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Nick’s life long ambition has been to create collectible images of the immortals he portrays in his work. Collections of Nick Elliot’s photos have been acquired all around the world and tell the stories of rare instances in time when people sat in awe as hearts and souls were gripped in musical spells. Like the artists he freezes in time, Nick too has become an icon and Rock God in his own right. Nick’s work shows up on many album covers as well as being published across virtually all media. Driven by this incredible passion to create stunning images of the Joe!Bonamassa!JB.09.01!(c)!Nick!Elliott! musicians who inspire him, Nick has produced countless collections of timeless photographic art that will outlive us all. When asked if he can remember all the artists that he has photographed, he claims there have been so many that he has forgotten more than he can remember. When asked if he could share one statement with others seeking to do what he has done, he said, “… Find your own style, stick with it and put a stamp on it. Find your own path and stay on it.” Websites:#Portfolio#www.nickelliott.eu# Press#office:#www.nickelliott.info# Social#media#6#Twitter:#@nickelliottinfo#/#Facebook#www.facebook.com/nickelliottinfo#
Melissa James by#William#Kryjak www.melissa-James.co.uk Melissa James isn't just a performer! She is also the life of the party. A talented crooner, she has been entertaining folks all over the UK for the past 15 years. She is versatile, performing old time favorites as well as current hits. A big influence on her music is Karen Carpenter, and James even specializes in a tribute show to the late, great, classic artist. A unique part of Melissa James' act is that during intermission, she invites her fans to come up on stage and sing karaoke. By getting the audience involved, it not only charges the atmosphere, but also brings people closer together – isn't that what music is all about? The next time you're up in the North West of England at a pub, bar, or club, look out for Melissa James and you can be certain to have a great time!
where creativity lives
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Heatsworld@gmail.com
Twitter @OHIOSYOUNGHEAT
Instagram @THEREALYOUNGHEAT
Youtube Channel www.youtube.com/daytonsyoungheat
!!!!!!!!!!!!
!!!!!!!!!!
!Art!of!tv!watching! !Backache!Becky!
!Shiver!
! !Backache!Becky!
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Erin!Lenchner
by George Ryland
Erin!Lenchner!is!an!artist!with!a!sense!of!humour!and!strong!leaning!towards!being! sarcastic.!!She!mainly!creates!drawings!in!trading!card!sizes,!up!to!two!or!three!per! day.!Taking!her!inspiration!from!a!wide!range!of!photographs!or!live!models,!she! sketches,!inks,!and!then!paints!her!subjects.!!She!does!not!just!paint!“pretty!women! in!the!nude!to!make!some!money”!but!uses!her!style!to!“portray!an!imperfect! world.”!The!female!form!provides!Erin!not!just!with!an!honest!subject!but!also!a!way! to!make!a!statement!about!modern!life.!The!card!size!drawings!pour!sarcasm!on!the! idolisation!of!naked!women.!Lenchner!is!not!one!to!go!with!trends!or!agree!with!the! mainstream!views.!Each!drawing!gets!a!name!as!well!to!really!cement!the!meaning.! Born!in!Detroit,!Michigan,!Erin!has!been!creating!art!since!she!was!just!three!years! old.!!Her!BFA!is!from!Wayne!State!University!and!she!attended!many!other!classes! and!private!schools.!Still!residing!in!Detroit,!her!studio!is!in!the!Burton!School! Building.!Her!work!now!has!a!global!following;!she!sells!pieces!over!the!Internet!as! well!as!locally!and!has!received!art!grants!and!awards.!!Jewelry!is!another!string!to! her!bow,!her!“urban!fine!jewelry”!is!as!individual!as!her!drawings.!!You!can!see!her! work!at!http://www.emptispaces.blogspot.com!and! http://www.facebook.com/erinlenchner.! !
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!!!!!Tena!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Williams !!!!!!!!!by!Andreea!Nica! !
The!reality!is!most!people!have! experienced!some!form!of!abuse!!!!!!!!!!! during!their!lifetime,!either!from!a!colleague,!family!member,!romantic!partner,!friend,!institution,! etc.!Abuse!takes!on!many!forms!including!emotional,!mental,!physical,!sexual,!verbal,!economical,! or!spiritual!and!often!are!interrelated.!There!are!many!resources!for!individuals!who!have! experienced!abuse!such!as!self>healing!books,!therapy,!spirituality,!shelters,!and!support!groups.! Each!person’s!encounter!with!abuse!is!different!but!one!element!remains!the!same,!that!of!a! systematic!failure.!The!root!of!abuse!is!power;!power!over!a!person’s!well>being,!be!it! psychological,!emotional,!spiritual,!physical,!or!economical.!! ! Tena!Williams,!author!of!Finding!Peace,!is!a!talented,!bold!woman!who!experienced!sexual,! mental,!and!physical!abuse.!The!book!was!released!on!November!21,!2010!and!chronicles!Tena’s! journey!from!childhood!strife!to!proclaimed!empowerment.!Currently,!she!is!working!on!another! book,!My!Journey!after!Finding!Peace!soon!to!be!released.!Tena!Williams!is!not!only!a!successful! author,!she!also!utilizes!her!talents!as!a!musician!to!vocalize!her!advocacy!and!experiences!with! abuse.!Under!the!name!Lady!Flava,!she!released!her!first!album!entitled!Mixed!Emotions!including! feature!hits!“Slappy!Slappy”!and!“Gotta!have!you.”!Tena!Williams!aka!Lady!Flava,!has!appeared!on! Real!Talk!Chronicles!show!with!Bill!Foster!in!2011,!along!with!several!radio!shows!as!a!guest! including!CBS!radio!and!Hot!93.7!with!Nancy!Barrow.!Tena!Williams!is!also!the!CEO!of!the!Finding! Peace!Campaign!Corporation,!a!non>profit!organization!designed!to!benefit!victims!of!abuse!in! need!of!food,!clothing,!shelter,!and!counseling.! ! For!more!information!on!Tena!Williams,!check!out!her!website:!ladyflava.com! Tune!in!to!her!radio!show!on!WRN!Radio!Monday!Nights!(8>10PM):!www.wrnradio.us! Great!interview!discussing!her!book,!Finding!Peace:!www.youtube.com/watch?v=xj9CCROIJKM!!
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Rodney Pike
by#George#Ryland
There#can#be#few#people#left#that#do#not#release#the#importance#of#social# media.#To#really#comprehend#its#power,#you#need#to# look#no#further#than#Rodney#Pike.#Hailing#from#Baton# Rouge,#Louisiana,#it’s#the#rediscovery#of#his#passion# for#art#in#the#last#few#years#that#makes#his#rise#all#the# more#extraordinary.#Since#that#time,#he#has#utilised# social#media#to#build#his#business#and#now#estimates# that#Google+#alone#generates#around#80%#of#his# business#income.# It#was#the#Internet#that#honed#his#passion#as#well;#in# 2010#he#came#across#a#Photoshop#contest#and#found# his#niche#–#Photoshop,#photo#manipulation#and# digital#painting.##Inspiration#for#Rodney#came#from# other#artists#such#as#Sebastian#Kruger,#Max#Sauco# ##Travis_Barker# and#Jason#Seiler.## He#soon#moved#into#photo#manipulated#caricatures#and#illustration#which#has# become#his#career,#completely#unintended#but#certainly#well#received.#FastQ forward#a#few#months#and#he#was#asked#to#provide#a#five#page#spread#for# Bauer#Media’s#FHM#Magazine,#an#amazing#achievement#after#so#little#time.# Now#his#clients#also#include#the#Miller#Publishing#Group,#Catchphrase# Entertainment#and#New#Coast#Productions#with#more#in#the#pipeline#for#the# future.#He#will#take#a#photograph#of#a#celebrity#and#manipulate#it#to#look# humorous,#but#it’s#not#just#a#few#minutes#of#easy#work.#Sometimes#his#work# flows#and#other#times#it#can#take#time#trawling#through#images#to#find#the#right# one#to#be#manipulated.##Then#the#Photoshop#work#begins!# He#has#definitely#put#the#hours#in#with#social#media#while#building#his#business# and#it#has#paid#off.#Oddly#enough#he#was#only#convinced#to#start#using#social# media#by#his#friends.#He#started#with#a#blog,#joined#Facebook#and#quickly#saw# the#advantages#of#a#strong#web#presence.#More#blogs#and#profiles#followed# and#generated#a#large#following.#He#now#has#satellite#blogs#running#off#his# main#blog,#which#are#totally#selfQsufficient,#and#of#course#the#obligatory#twitter# account.#A#new#blog#or#post#can#reach#thousands#and#thousands#across#the# world#at#the#click#of#a#button.# Thanks#to#his#use#of#social#media#and#the#attention#his#work#has#attracted,# these#days#his#work#can#be#found#everywhere,#he#has#even#been#interviewed# and#featured#in#magazines#globally.#People#want#to#know#not#just#about#his#
work,#but#also#the#secrets#of#his#success#and#how#to#build#a#successful#business# from#scratch#like#he#did.# His#work#is#well#worth#a#look;#check#out#his#Facebook#profile,# http://www.facebook.com/RodneyPikeCaricatureIllustration,#for#his#photoQ manipulated#caricatures#of#Barack#Obama,#Tom#Hanks,#George#Bush#and#Snoop# Dogg.#Rodney#is#certainly#talented#and#his#work#lends#itself#beautifully#to# political#satire#and#humour.#You#can#also#find#out#more#about#him#by#visiting# his#blog,#http://www.rwpike.blogspot.com/=
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ALTHEA HEWITT BIOGRAPHY
DYNAMIC, CLASSY, PASSIONATE, and SOULFUL, are among the many words that describes this beautiful unique brand of a talent reigning out of Jamaica. Althea Hewitt, Reggae Recording Artist. Althea started performing in high school and joined Cathy Levi’s Little people and Teen Players. She modeled for a few years but her calling was music. Her first travel away from Jamaica was to the Le Meridien in Brussels, Belgium where she represented Jamaica presenting our reggae music in a elegant Jamaican cuisine atmosphere. Althea travelled to New Caledonia and also to France, Germany and Holland where she did harmony work for Bushman. Years later, she did shows in the Caribbean, islands like Barbados, Turks and Caicos and many other countries like Guyana, United States (New York) and most recent, England and Sweden with the legend Bunny Wailer. Althea has also toured with Boris Gardiner, Pluto Shervington, John Holt, and Ernie Smith. Althea was the main act, two years in a row for the New Years Eve ball at the grand Jamaica Pegasus Hotel January 31st 2011 and 2012. Althea is an exceptional Songwriter and Actress who produces her own shows (“Intimate in Studio 38”) and has acted in a few productions like “Positive” and “Hairpeace”. When she was in 4th Street Sister, she was featured in the “One Love” movie. She is currently part of a team of actors, dancers, musicians and singers called “Tribe Sankofa”. She is also a member of JAVAA. Althea Hewitt proudly makes her living from corporate shows, dub plates, concerts, birthdays, weddings, studio harmony and stage shows.. Her first album, “Introducing Althea Hewitt” was released in August 2008. Althea signed a distribution contract with VP Records. Her recent singles are on Youtube or at www.vpreggae.com. She is currently in studio writing and recording. ASWON FARENJI - MANAGER www.facebook.com/aswonfarenji itsadoggpoundting@hotmail.com TEL# 61412365344 Gray Patch - Agent http://graypatchmedia.wix.com/bookings#!home/ mainPage TEL# 8763150015 www.facebook.com/althea.s.hewitt
Ron$Eckerman$
by#Andreea#Nica#
We#sing#their#songs#at#our#nearest#karaoke#bar.#We#play#their#records#and#muse#about#how# they#don’t#make#music#like#this#anymore.#We#take#one#more#shot#of#whiskey#and#saturate# ourselves#in#their#instrumental#salience.#The#legacy#of#Lynyrd#Skynyrd#continues#to# permeate#through#the#hearts#and#minds#of#musicians,#fans,#artists,#and#the#general#public.# With#their#hottest#hits#in#the#1970s,#“Free#Bird”#and#“Sweet#Home#Alabama,”#Lynyrd# Skynyrd#created#the#musical#platform#for#Southern#hard#rock.#Ron#Eckerman,#tour#manager# of#Lynyrd#Skynyrd,#began#producing#concert#tours#in#1973,#starting#his#tour#management# company#Clearlight#Enterprises.#He#had#the#opportunity#to#manage#Lynyrd#Skynyrd#in#1976# and#witnessed#their#ascension#to#widespread,#international#notoriety.#Nearly#35#years#later,# Ron#Eckerman#is#ready#to#share#his#experiences#touring#with#the#band#members,#and#the# tragic#plane#crash#that#killed#singer#and#songwriter#Ronnie#Van#Zant,#guitarist#Steve#Gaines,# backTup#singer#Cassie#Gaines,#and#assistant#tour#manager#Dean#Kilpatrick.#This#is#his#story,# and#most#intriguingly,#the#story#of#legendary#icons#that#never#lived#to#tell#it.## On#the#bleak#day#of#October#20,#1977,#at#the#peak#of#Lynyrd#Skynyrd’s#musical#career,#only# 10#minutes#before#the#plane#was#expected#to#land#safely#in#Baton#Rouge,#Louisiana,#it#ran# out#of#fuel#and#crashed.#Ron#Eckerman,#tour#manager,#survived#the#plane#crash#and#takes# the#blame#for#choosing#the#aircraft#and#signing#the#lease#as#he#mentions#in#his#new#book,# Turn#It#Up!:#Love,#Life,#and#Death,#Southern#Style.#The#emotionally#compelling#story#takes# the#reader#on#a#journey#through#one#of#the#most#eminent#rock#bands#of#all#time.# Sorrowfully,#their#rising#fame#came#to#an#abrupt#end#with#the#plane#crash#of#1977.#Turn#It# Up#is#a#significant#memoir#of#Southern#rock,#touring,#and#brotherhood,#which#defined#one# of#the#most#famous#bands#in#American#history.#Through#Eckerman’s#boldness#and#narrative# talent,#he#takes#readers#back#to#a#time#where#Southern#rock#awakened#our#souls,#when# deals#were#made#with#handshakes,#and#planning#was#done#from#the#hip.#Eckerman#brings# the#reader#backstage,#onto#the#tour#bus,#and#mesmerizes#us#with#the#excitement#of#being# part#of#Lynyrd#Skynyrd.## Turn#It#Up#is#not#only#a#book#for#those#who#reminisce#about#the#talented#chords#of# America’s#first#Southern#rock#band,#but#for#those#who#want#to#be#taken#on#a#paramount# journey#detailing#fame,#brotherhood,#and#tragedy.#Turn#It#Up#is#available#in#paperback#and# digital#formats.#There#is#also#an#audio#book#narrated#by#the#author#that#is#available#in#a#12# CD#set#or#as#downloadable#MP3s.#The#book#is#available#at#Amazon,#Barnes#and#Nobles,# BooksTATMillion,#and#most#online#booksellers,#and#is#starting#to#appear#on#bookstore# shelves#throughout#the#country.#Ron#Eckerman#has#a#story#to#tell.#It’s#one#we#all#wish#we# had#lived,#and#until#that#one#tragic#day,#it#was#one#of#a#free#bird.# Paperback,#English.#8.5X5.5X.8#in,#Publisher#Restless#Artists,#ISBN#978T0984685905#Digital,# English,#438KB,#Publisher#Restless#Artists,#ASIN#B005UPPF5U#Audio,#English,#CD#and#MP3,# Publisher#Restless#Artists,#ISBN#978T0984685929#For#distribution#contact#Restless#Artists#at# mailto:turnitupbook@gmail.com,#or#contact#Amazon#distribution.#You#can#contact#the# author#at#roneckerman@turnitupbook.com.#For#personal#appearances#and#book#signings# contact#Michelle#Hershey#at#mailto:mmhershey@gmail.com
where creativity lives
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Flying Lotus
!by#Doug#Mitchell#
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In an intensely gloomy room stands three main factors, man, laptop and a projector screen. Within this dark misty room there are many blurred images, however; one of those images is shaped to be the center of attention. As geometrical shapes and sculptures capture the imagination of the fans, the man emerges from behind the shadows to reveal himself to the masses. That man is Los Angeles based multi genre producer Flying Lotus. The word “Classification” can be considered both a positive and negative key point when it comes to being in the music industry. For some, the sense of classification may seem like a box, one that is impossible to breach away from. For others, classification could mean having the opportunity to prove and test your limits. Flying Lotus has done just that with all of his notable accomplishments. With the debut of his new album, Until the Quiet Comes, which was released on October 2nd, Flying Lotus aka FlyLo continues his march towards success and individuality. FlyLo’s latest work can be added to his list of credentials, as this is his 4thsolo album to date since late 2006. The familiar electronica and abstract style of music combined with chest rattling 808 bass drops speak for what Flying Lotus represents, the new experimental generation. Born Steven Ellison, FlyLo was heavily influenced by music producers of all genres of music during his upbringing. Although he was raised in Los Angeles, California, he kept in contact with his family ties in Detroit, MI, who were also involved in the music scene. His great aunt, Jazz pianist Alice Coltrane inspired him to pursue his dreams as an artist and producer. FlyLo states, “I’m lucky to have been around so many accomplished musicians” when asked about the impact his family had on his creativity. FlyLo is one of the only new wave producers to infuse the urban art of hip-hop with trip hop music. Along with having a space-age imagination, FlyLo expresses his talents through the instruments he’s become familiar with such as turntables, drum machines, synthesizers, keyboards and samplers. His laptop acts as a control panel to direct his electronic masterpiece through the speakers. Listeners experience “eargasms” during his live shows in which he combines a collage of music genres into one mix. His earlier albums, 1983, Los Angeles and Cosmogramma were all stepping stones leading up to his latest release. While officially on Warp Records since 2007, he released his 1983 album on Plug Release Records in 2006. When FlyLo released Cosmogramma in 2010 he did the unexpected, not only did he make a name for himself globally, he won the Dance/Electronica category at the 10th Annual Independent Music Awards. While he agrees that his earlier musical efforts were heavily jazz influenced, he decided to experiment with hip hop, “trap music” to be specific, with his latest offering. Until the Quiet Comes is an album that Flying Lotus describes as “A collage of mystical states, dreams, sleep and lullabies.” The directorial creativity of FlyLo shines through with his most recent work. The short film for Until the Quiet Comes depicts an unfiltered perception from the mind of Lotus. When asked about the connection between images and his music he emphasizes “I see these tracks as little short films that play in my head.” Features from Erykah Badu, Thom Yorke, Niki Randa and Thundercat on Until the Quiet Comes are honorable mentions that more than live up to their expectations. While it may be possible to underestimate the Los Angeles producer, you can’t overlook all of his accomplishments to date. Music placements on The Cartoon Network and The Boondocks add to the diverse portfolio of Lotus while music spotlights on the HBO series True Blood highlight his future aspirations. One of his latest projects is a joint collaboration with independent filmmaker Miwa Matreyek. The duo plan to complete a short multimedia based film titled “The Mapping of Countries Yet to Come” by the end of 2012. As fans still stand in line for hours on end to sneak a peek at one of his live shows, he continues to not only grow as a producer, but also as an entrepreneur. Flying Lotus is the founder of his own Brainfeeder enterprise. He is equipped with a stable of his own upcoming artists. Names such as Samiyam, Teebs and Daedelus are sure to be brought up in rated “next” conversations. With sold out tour dates from the U.S., Germany, UK and the Netherlands, FlyLo is sure to be busy promoting his new album and working on new material. For more info on Flying Lotus go to http://www.Flying-Lotus.com, http://www.Brainfeedersite.com, http://www.Soundcloud.com/flyinglotus, http://www.Facebook.com/flyinglotus, http://www.Warp.net/records/flying-lotus
Roberta(Heck
by William Kryjak
“I am here to witness to those in doubt or loss that there is hope, there is an after. That there is Power in Prayer." It's always amazing, the power of prayer, and its ability to truly assist people in finding their potential. In this case, it has spurred on a bestselling author, award-winning poet, and inspirational speaker to become all of these things. Her faith is genuinely moving, and her unique, spoken word poetry can seize forth the most cynical skeptic. Roberta has won the National Shakespeare Trophy of Excellence Award, the National Editors Choice Award and the National Poetic Excellence Award, and along the way has written four books, with another that was up for publication this past September. Mrs. Heck is also a frequent guest and contributer to “Bobby Jones Presents” on “The Word Network,” a worldwide premiere ministry network, where she is able to spread her messages of hope and inspiration to a large audience. Available to speak at seminars, conferences, radio and television, Roberta believes that “there is a brighter tomorrow through prayer, faith and trust that the Lord will bring you through in his time." Her passion is truly inspirational. To keep up to date with what Roberta has going on, be sure to visit her website www.robertaheckministries.org
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Album Reviews Flying Lotus - Until The Quiet Comes by Gwendolyn Talbot
Rating:
★★★★
Few pull musical eclecticism off like Flying Lotus, that fact remaining abundantly clear upon listening to his latest record Until the Quiet Comes. Jazz and hip hop have always been dominating forces in FlyLo's production, but UTQC proves that he can remain original in two tend-tobe overused genres and even evolve within them. The two singles, "See Thru to U" featuring Erykah Badu (I know!) and "Putty Boy Strut" are... well, they're a bit random. Although fantastic tracks, "Getting There" might have attracted a wider audience to his album at the same time as shining some light on Niki Randa, a wonderful vocalist who also appeared on Cosmogramma. Not to mention that it's classic FlyLo. On the other end of the spectrum, "Phantasm," featuring Laura Darlington who also appeared on the last album, shows the trip hop/psychedelic angle that makes Flying Lotus so interesting to listen to. Overall, UTQC is a nice return to FlyLo's roots.
Tweed Funk - Love Is by George Ryland
Rating:
★★★★
Six very talented guys make up Tweed Funk, a funk band from Wisconsin. Their second album, Love Is, has scored high on the blues chart so far and word is spreading. There are some very experienced members alongside some up and coming; together they bring back old school R&B vibes with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. The opening track, Fine Wine, is a mission statement indeed – upbeat praise of ladies in their prime rather than the more common worship of youth. “Pick Em Early” is a standout track - smooth with super funky guitar work from JD Optekar, Jon Lovas’ saxophone shines out on “Fragile”, drummer Gibbons has a fantastic solo at the end of “Smooth Taste” and everyone gets their chance to shine. Musically the highlight is arguably vocals from Smokey, which are exactly that. He was made to sing the blues! There are some more mellow tracks on the album as well as upbeat, but far from being fillers they are the perfect compliment, making a truly well rounded album.
True Margrit - The Juggler’s Progress by Patrick Ross
Rating:
★★★★
San Francisco trio True Margrit is a piano melody driven band that features pianist Margrit Eichler on lead vocal’s, bassist Gary Hobish, and drummer Andrew Bacon on backup vocal harmonies. Margrit’s vocals are strong and true, and lyrically she is adventurous. The trio as a unit is tight and compact but there seems to be an overall feeling of being one dimensionally sounding at times. This is not to say that they don’t have a unique sound associated with the lyrical content being expressed. The track “Opposite Man” which is featured in the Scott Boswell film “The Stranger in Us” has a rollicking feel to it and features the driving nature of the bands sound. They show that they can rock with the best of them in the mainstream rock genre, with Gary playing a driving bass line and Andrew delivering memorable rhythm on the drums. On the track entitled “Lucy” I enjoyed the stretching out by the band instrumentally, which offered more musical variety, to break the monotony of the bands piano led sound, which dominates many of the tracks. The title song “The Juggler’s Progress” reminded me a bit of the band Queen, with the overall feel and chord progression. The band really opens up on the tracks, “Metaphor,” and the light hearted romp “Make Them Beg,” while the track “500 Years,” really rocks with the addition of the organ sound. For fans, True Margrit should be a nice compliment to their collection of progressive piano art-pop, alternative rock.
Darren Rhodes - You Got Me by William Kryjak
Rating:
★★★★
With dreams of performing at the Grand Ole Opry since age 7, Darren Rhodes has dreamt of being a country music star his entire life. His musical talent is perhaps only outdone by his enduring work ethic, and the results are plain as day on his latest album You Got Me, a collection of compulsory country heartbreak ballads and southern attitude. “Johnny Walker Walk” conjures up images of a smoky dive somewhere in West Texas, where fights aren't expected to be broken up. Rhodes' shifts gears on “You Got Me,” embodying the sweet, Southern gentleman, that'd pack up and move to New England before refusing to hold open a door. There is a lot of promise in these songs, though it would really be exciting to see what he could do with a larger production budget. With honest lyrics, catchy melodies, and good-natured determination, Darren Rhodes may get to that Opry just yet.
Phreeda Sharp
by Lou Johnson
Ladies and gentleman, straight from across the pond, we bring you, Phreeda Sharp! With a fresh new sound reminiscent of a rapping Macy Gray her delivery is as crisp as a clean bed sheet whipping in an April breeze. Think if you can, of orchestrated rap mixed with radical wordplay, mixed with a voice as sweet as unrefined honey. Hailing from the rough-‐and-‐tumble Hackney district of London, she breathes freshness into a country desperate for something, ANYTHING, other than the staid class-‐ism it is known for. She pulls you out of your comfort zone, throwing you into a current swiftness that’s so exhilarating that it makes the hairs on your neck stand up! Her tune, Bad Jane, is bad! If you haven’t heard her, give her a listen. If you can’t find her-‐look! She’s what we’ve been waiting for. Phreeda Sharp, the sound of a future rap phenomenon. Check her out: Website: www.phreedasharp.com YouTube: www.youtube.com/PhreedaSharpChannel1
Tweed Funk by George Ryland
It’s been a great year for Tweed Funk so far and it looks set to get even better. Their debut album, Bringin’ It, was well received last year as was their subsequent tour in the Midwest and South. They have since bought in Jon Lovas on saxophone, had time in a professional studio and this year released their sophomore CD ‘Love It’. Famed guitarist Greg Koch co-produced and a horn section plus female backing vocals from the WhiskeyBelles were added. Blues, soul and funk with a touch of hip-hop is their music and the awards have started to come in along with the airplay. They won the 2012 WAMI for R&B/Soul Artist of the Year and outstanding frontman Smokey was nominated for 2012 WAMI for Best Male Vocalist. If you see them live you won’t be disappointed; check out their festival and gig dates for the rest of the year at http://www.tweedfunk.com.
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