INDIE POP ROCK ARTIST NIKITA LEV TELLS US HER MOST INFLUENTIAL TUNES
INDIE POP ROCK ARTIST NIKITA LEV TELLS US HER MOST INFLUENTIAL TUNES
Nineteen-year-old multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter Nikita Lev is just getting started with already 200 songs written under her belt. The New York-bred artist's take on Indie Folk has an earnestness and confidence beyond her years. Nikita's latest singles, Like I Care and Elegance, are out now and evoke nostalgia and early Lana Del Rey. Lev provided The Reclusive Blogger with a playlist of her favorite and most influential songs and artists, which you can listen to below.
R&B ICON MYA CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF HER SELF-TITLED DEBUT ALBUM
I had the pleasure of participating in a press conference with R&B icon Mya a few weeks ago. We got to ask her some questions and hear her spill the tea on what it has been like being in the industry for so long and thriving in it. The artist has been on a press tour to mark the 25th anniversary of her debut self-titled album. The album featured tracks like, ‘Movin On’, and ‘It’s All About Me’ where she worked with 90s R&B stalwarts like Sisqo (of Dru Hill fame) and Hip-Hop legend herself, Missy Elliot.
I asked Mya, what is one of your favorite memories from your debut album-making/recording process. Although, she said that she had many memories that stood out. She said the train rides alone to the studio where she recorded her record came to mind. During those train rides, she would occupy time by writing, excited that she no longer had to use a karaoke machine to try to capture all of the melodies, sounds, and lyrics she had come up with. Now she had access and a team behind her with Interscope. It was so interesting to hear her answer for many reasons, but mainly for perspective. People often forget how young she was during her debut (she was 16 going on 17).
Ultimately getting to hear her speaking on not only the accomplishments she’s had along the way and talk about how her best is yet to come with so much more to give was empowering. We are in an industry that often defines women by their youth and sexuality, and when I mean young, I mean under 25. At 43, Mya is now fully independent and releasing music through her record label. To relieve some of those nostalgic and moody late 90s R&Bs vibes, you can stream Mya’s 25th-anniversary edition of her debut with a deluxe edition which is out now on all DSPs.
INTERVIEW WITH… INDIE AMERICANA SINGER-SONGWRITER SHARAYA SUMMERS
INTERVIEW WITH… INDIE AMERICANA SINGER-SONGWRITER SHARAYA SUMMERS #TheReclusiveBlogger #Interviews
SHARAYA SUMMERS | Photo by: Kate Rentz
Oregon-based Singer-Songwriter Sharaya Summer's reflective, heartfelt, and honest Indie Folk and Americana melodies are garnering her acclaim and fans alike. In her latest single, ‘Forever You and Me’, she explores the fragility of relationships while examining her own, reminding everyone of loved ones and the memories you share close. The idea of the song emerged after a particularly challenging time full of changes for her. Summers had just had a daughter, was recording a new record, and lost her Grandmother. Now Summers is determined to look forward and find the light amongst the shadows, a theme she explores in her forthcoming release.
You can check out my interview with Indie Folk and Americana artist Sharaya Summers below!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can you talk about your latest single “Forever You and Me” and the inspiration behind it?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: I wrote this song after attending my grandmother's funeral last year. As the slideshow of her life played in a five-minute span, I observed my heartbroken grandfather on the pew watching. I wrote this thinking that I would play it at my husband's funeral far far in our future. But now as I am ready to release the song, we are actually separated and going through a pretty low point in our marriage. The song has taken on new meaning as I realize that no matter how, why, or when love ends there's nothing we can do to prepare for it. I suppose now it's a more positive spin on a break up considering that no matter what the future brings we will always have the wonderful memories and two beautiful children we share.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can you speak a bit about your musical background? Has music always played a role in your life?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: I was a 90's youth group kid growing up. I learned how to play guitar and play music in church. I went through somewhat of an existential crisis in my mid-twenties and bailed on church and moved to Nashville to be a songwriter. I don't have any negative feelings about the experience, it was just that as I grew up and saw more of the world, music and God became bigger than something I could keep in such a limited box. When I am practicing creation/creativity it's the closest I feel to the divine. So yes, I'd say it's been an integral part of my life.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: You have an LP tentatively due out later this year. How is the writing and recording process going so far?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: The album is complete! It's being mixed as we speak, soon to be mastered. I recorded with Raymond Richards in Portland, OR. When I started tracking I was nine months pregnant with my now one-year-old baby girl. It was quite a commitment to finish, as having a newborn is a challenge I can not even begin to describe. I am grateful to my mother who supported me with babysitting and Jacob, my husband, for helping to keep me motivated and contributing as band director.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Do you have a bucket list of dream artists that you’d love to collab with? If so, who are they?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: Stevie Nicks, Jackson Browne, or Norah Jones
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What was the last thing you discovered about your artistic self?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: After becoming a mother I thought my artistic career would be over. While I may not be free to tour or play shows or hustle as much as I used to, I was happy to discover that I didn't stop writing, it's just a part of who I am and what I do, so that was cool to realize that being an artist has nothing to do with age or situation.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Who are some of your biggest artistic influences or inspirations?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: Right now as cheesy as it sounds my two kids are my inspiration. I love seeing the world in a totally new way through their eyes. My son is 3 and my daughter is 1. The joy and wonder is everything everyone says about becoming a parent. It's just so cool. So hard, but so fun too. They inspire me to slow down and really be present where I am at, to be more observant of the world around me, and more appreciative and grateful for the small things every day.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What was the last album you played with no skips?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: Erykah Badu - Baduizm - last week while making dinner, sipping wine, and then doing the never-ending dishes.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: And lastly, what’s next on the horizon for you?
SHARAYA SUMMERS: I've always been someone with a 5-year plan. This year has shown me that I can not control anything but my view of the world, and my reactions to it. I feel like I've grown into a completely new person, someone who for this season has literally no plan other than to be mindful, to listen, and to choose to be grateful for every moment. I find that my creativity has never been so free-flowing as when I'm just here to take it all in and observe the pain along with the joy. I don't know what is next, but I do know that I am not finished.
Stream Sharaya’s new single “Forever You & Me” which is out now by clicking here
PASADENA’S CRUEL WORLD FESTIVAL RETURNS IN ALL OF ITS DAZZLING GOTHIC GLORY
PASADENA’S CRUEL WORLD FESTIVAL RETURNS IN ALL OF ITS DAZZLING GOTHIC GLORY
Photo Credit: Brittney Williams | The Reclusive Blogger
The SOLD-OUT festival is now in its second year and entertained a crowd of thousands of hard-core music lovers with a taste for punk, proto-punk, Goth, Industrial, Electronica, Rock, and Alternative Rock, all looking to dance the humidity away on a Saturday and depending on your age relive some teenage memories. Given the performers, it was no coincidence that this was casually referred to as the Gen X lineup. This year's electric lineup featured mostly artists and bands from the late 70s and the 80s, with some sounds from today that echo a similar hauntingly chaotic vibe. The festival is in Pasadena's Brookside Park, located south of the Rose Bowl Stadium, and showcases the best Goth/Punk/Alt culture, fashion, and music. A niche subculture that's quickly growing in the mainstream culture or media space. You guys can debate the merits or negatives of that. While fashion, with its roots in freedom of expression, was a focal point and was more than spot-on artistically and sartorially. So as much as everyone had come dressed to impress in black with fishnet, lace, leather, or mesh that perfectly accented their ensemble. Cruel World was still a music festival, and music was the hallmark of Goth culture. After the festival had to overcome two fan favorites dropping out, The Motels and Adam Ant. They continued with new additions, Squeeze, and one of last year's highlights, Berlin. Now to talk about the best of the festival and well that ending ...
Photo Credit: Pooneh Ghana
Photo Credit: Coen Rees
I'm pretty sure by now everyone has heard about what happened towards the end of the Cruel World Festival. It wasn't until the end of the festival when Iggy was playing we got word of a lighting storm headed our way, so we needed to evacuate safely, quickly, and calmly. There were many signs, including flashes of lighting and even some actual strikes (I even saw a few lightning flashes). How close was it? I'm not sure exactly, but you can never hedge a bet with something like that. It's always better to be safe than sorry. So you won't wind up dealing with potentially horrific repercussions afterward. Anyway, I am very thankful that the storm never made it and petered out. It's also worth noting that Iggy Pop still slayed even through potential danger, and I finally got to hear one of my favorite songs from childhood, The Passenger.
Many festival-goers (including other musicians and ones sharing the bill) made it known that Goth Punk icon Siouxsie Soux was who they had trekked out to the festival to see. Siouxsie was playing her first show in over fifteen years, and this would be her only show in the Americas. So when the evacuation happened that killed her set, disappointment was an absolute understatement, but Goldenvoice (the festival promoter) came through and went above and beyond by creating a second-day mini-fest with a re-do of both hers' and Iggy Pop sets, adding Gary Numan, and a DJ set from the Club Dooms' Dave. Iggy Pops' expanded second set had twelve songs closing out with tracks from his time with two epic Stooges tracks, the blistering Search and Destroy, and sleazy pop stump, I Wanna Be Your Dog. Siouxsie closed the night out in a disco lamé jumpsuit to a roaring and adoring crowd of thousands playing through her classics, solo work, and fan favorites. You can check out her entire setlist below.
Some other highlights include the soulful British Pop band ABC who got the crowd going and pumped in the mid-afternoon. Lead Singer and showman Martin Fry held a captive audience as they sang along to every word to hits like Poison Arrow, The Look of Love, and When Smokey Sings. Billy Idol's rebel rock energy brought us into the dusk with an energetic 80s Rock revival as he flexed through hits like Dancing With Myself, Flesh For Fantasy, Rebel Yell, White Wedding, his cover of the Tommy James & the Shondells classic, Mony Mony and so many more. The crowd even sang Happy Birthday to his Granddaughter, Poppy, who turned three. I was shocked at the size of the audience that came to see and hear him on the Sad Girls stage. It was massive! Billy Idol fans are still hard-core to this day, and I bet he picked up so many new ones with his Cruel World debut.
Berlin, Modern English, Echo and the Bunnymen, and Gary Numan were all clear fan favorites with packed sets and brought top-tier electronic and synth music and vibes to the festival. For me, Gary Numan stole the show with his vibrant and electric mix of avant-garde Industrial electronica. Once again, as in many of the artists mentioned before, Numan's power was in his stage presence and comfortability. He played through a mix of old and new work and, of course, played Cars, the song (or one of the songs) that inevitably changed the landscape of Electronic music. It was a treat for not only fans but anyone that's a fan of the genre or makes music within it.
Lastly, Cruel World Festival also highlighted newer artists that carried the torch of the various genres and ethos. Ela Minus is a Columbian singer whose DIY electro-punk aesthetic and synthesizer made a big splash at the festival. Then there was Riki, who brought strong vocals set against spiked bubblegum synth-wave sounds, and the duo of Boy Harsher, whose darkwave and EBM sound filled the air with a sense of foreboding as you danced. Molchat Doma, a Belarusian post-punk band whose mournful sound was another rare offering, fell in line with the tradition of the festival highlighting niche overseas bands. The high point for me out of the newer bands had to be Texas' Urban Heat their music was an electric mix of post-punk and darkwave. The trio, led by captivating frontman Jonathan Horstmann gathered a large crowd around the Lost Boy stage at the hottest time of the day, enduring the heat and humidity. I also got to interview and take some portraits of Jonathan, so please stay tuned for that.
It was quite the wild ride at this year's festival, and it seems that Adam Ant, as the Bunnymen had in the previous year, has been rescheduled to next year. Adam is the reason why skull rings are a jewelry staple for me. So, I'd like to thank Goldenvoice for everything, and I'll see you all at Cruel World 2024 with my 'Goody Two Shoes' on.
MY CRUEL WORLD FESTIVAL PHOTO GALLERY | ALL PHOTOS BELOW TAKEN BY ME AND THE PRIOR GARY NUMAN PHOTO. THE SIOUXSIE SIOUX PHOTO TAKEN BY POONEH GHANA AND THE IGGY POP PHOTO TAKEN BY COEN REES. THANKS GOLDENVOICE FOR THE USE OF THOSE PHOTOS!Photo Credit: Brittney Williams | The Reclusive Blogger
PRESS RELEASE: LUNA AURA SUPPORTING COREY TAYLOR ON FALL US TOUR
Previously Featured in PAPER Magazine, MTV News,SPIN, The Noise / Ones To Watch, Ladygunn & More
May 17, 2023 – Los Angeles, CA – Alt-rock powerhouse LUNA AURA is thrilled to announce that she will be supporting Slipknot’s Corey Taylor on his solo US tour this fall. LUNA will join the tour starting on September 15th in Wallingford, with dates to follow in Huntington, Orlando, Dallas, Albuquerque, and more, before wrapping up in LUNA’s hometown of Los Angeles on October 5th. For a full list of shows, please see below or visit: https://linktr.ee/lunaaura. Shares LUNA: “I am incredibly excited to be back on the road again this Fall with the legendary Corey MF Taylor!! I was beyond blissed out after I got the news, still waiting for someone to pinch me.” LUNA AURA is set to release her third EP THE FICTION in the fall of 2023, featuring her audacious new single “MONEY BAG”. To hear more, tune in to Spotify's Rock This, New Noise, Walk Like a Badass, All New Rock, Totally Alt, Rock Rising, Fierce Femmes, Pulp, and more... About LUNA AURA:Genre-bending alternative powerhouse LUNA AURA is hell-bent on paving her own path. The independent singer-songwriter, producer, and triple threat delivers songs that are brimming with messages of rebellion, feminism, and individuality. LUNA, who began penning songs and performing at age 14, has already shared stages with The Killers, K.Flay, Muse, Weezer, Garbage, P!nk, Odesza, and more of music's biggest names. She has spent time on the festival market, playing KAABOO, Lost Lake, So What, EMERGE, and has announced her appearances at AFTERSHOCK & LOUDER THAN LIFE 2023. Her work and artistry have been featured in PAPER, GQ, Teen Vogue, NYLON, MTV, VH1, Ones To Watch, and more. The LA-via-Phoenix native draws on childhood influences like Garbage, Blur, NIN, and Gwen Stefani. Her latest work is raw, provocative, and bold. Perfectly matched with her vigorous, in-your-face, live performances.
For more information, please visit:
Website: https://linktr.ee/lunaaura
Facebook: www.facebook.com/itslunaaura
Twitter: https://twitter.com/lunaauramusic
Instagram: www.instagram.com/itslunaaura
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@itslunaaura
Upcoming Tour Dates:9/15 – Wallingford, CT @ The Dome at Oakdale9/16 – Huntington, NY @ The Paramount9/18 – North Myrtle Beach, SC @ House of Blues9/19 – Orlando, FL @ House of Blues9/21 – Huntsville, AL @ Mars Music Hall9/22 – Louisville, KY @ Louder Than Life Festival9/24 – Houston, TX @ House of Blues9/25 – Dallas, TX @ House of Blues9/27 – Albuquerque, NM @ Marquee Theatre10/1 – San Diego, CA @ House of Blues10/3 – Riverside, CA @ Riverside Municipal Auditorium10/5 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Wiltern10/8 – Sacramento, CA @ Aftershock Festival
INTERVIEW WITH… NASHVILLE’S PSYCHEDELIC ALT-ROCK BAND BLUPHORIA
INTERVIEW WITH… NASHVILLE’S PSYCHEDELIC ALT-ROCK BAND BLUPHORIA —
BLUPHORIA | Photo by: Jena Yannone
Meet Nashville’s rising new Alt-Rock band Bluphoria, the blues rock meets psychedelic alternative rock is comprised of Frontman/Lead Guitarist Reign LaFreniere, Rhythm guitarist/ Backing Vocalist Dakota Landrum, Bassist/Backing Vocalist Rex Wolf, Drummer/Backing Vocalist Dani Janae. Lead vocalist, Reign took some time out of their busy schedule to speak with me just ahead of their debut album, which is out now. I spoke with frontman, Reign LaFreniere about the new self-titled debut, his artistic influences, being a Black man in Alternative music, the band’s origin, and much more.
You can check out my interview with Reign of Bluphoria below and stream the band’s self-titled debut here.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Thanks for taking the time to speak with me at The Reclusive Blogger. How are you guys doing?
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: Thanks for having us! We are doing great and are very stoked about the new album release.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: You guys formed in Eugene, Oregon, but now call Nashville home. Frontman Reign grew up in NorCal. How much would you say those distinct soundscapes from these notable music cities pop up within your sound?
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: Growing up in the bay was very influential for me as an artist. The bay area has been the center of so many music scenes over the years and I feel like, because of that, I’ve internalized all of those influences within the sound we have now. Being in Nashville has also been super inspiring because all the musicians here are so helpful and collaborative and it seems as though the bare minimum is to be talented here but at the same time because of the culture here every musician is welcome.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Even though we are progressing with bands/artists like yours, Meet Me At The Altar, Gary Clark Jr., and overseas with the Nova Twins. How do you feel this space can be more open to artists of color, particularly black artists, despite what we all know is the origin story of rock music?
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: I think that by changing the narrative on what is expected of black art would do leaps and bounds. I remember writing music when I was younger and being intimidated by the fact that I didn’t have a lot of people to look up to that looked like me making my kind of music. You’d see Gary Clark Jr. and Leon Bridges and such but I think by just being present and promoting those artists will normalize it more and kids who are like me when I was younger will be more inspired to create and follow their passion.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can we talk about your forthcoming album? What was the creative and writing process for it like? Did you have a particular sound that you wanted going in? How did it differ from any of your past recording sessions?
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: It’s kind of crazy to say but most of the songs we wrote in the last three years were written during the pandemic. A lot of the songs on this album kind of reflect that feeling as well. We wanted to make a project where the whole crux of it was to capture a peaceful melancholy. Most of our songs are upbeat and driven by major chords but at the same time the lyrics tell a sadder story which was very reflective of our experiences during covid trying to make the best out of a bad situation. This album is a much more mature version of our previous projects sonically and it really came to life because of the help we got from Mark Needham.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: The producer on your record Mark Needham has worked with many major acts like Imagine Dragons and The 1975. What was it like working with the Grammy-winning producer? How did he shape your sound?
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: He was great! He brought a lot of experience to the studio which helped us and his patience was unmatched. We had gone into recording having never used a click track and bickering about what would make songs better and his mantra was always to try whatever ideas we had and see what the outcome was. It really allowed us to grow our songs and turn the project into what it is today.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Were there any songs off the forthcoming full-length release that were more challenging to write? Which ones came together quickly?
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: Most of them came to us quickly. I’m personally one of those writers who, if I have an idea, finish writing the song on the spot. We did bring "Set Me Up" to the studio completely unfinished and it was interesting working on it and seeing how it changed and filled out. That song was difficult because it started as an indie rock down-tempo ballad of sorts and we messed around with a lot of ideas to really make it angrier and sound how it is today.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What would you say are Bluphoria's biggest inspirations or influences? These can be from an artistic, musical, and even personal standpoint.
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: Our band has such an eclectic music taste. I am very influenced by '60s soul, rock n roll, and funk. I grew up a big fan of Sam Cooke and Bob Marley then high school came around and I was a Hendrix and Beatles fan. Dakota is very influenced by psychedelic rock of the '60s and '70s like Pink Floyd and Velvet Underground which is an interesting match for the rest of the rhythm section who are big fans of punk and '90s grunge and most of the time name bands that I’ve never heard of! It does seem to work somehow and I like how all of our influences connect in our music.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Name a fictional character you think would most identify with your soundscape or aesthetic.
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: That’s a hard one. I have my favorites but I feel like we could have our music pop up in the Guardians of the Galaxy spaceship at some point! Especially if we were an '80s band!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: And my last question. What is up next for Bluphoria in 2023? Thanks again, guys! I wish you so much success going forward!
REIGN OF BLUPHORIA: We are just preparing for our album release on May 5th and the shows that follow! We hope to be going on tour this summer and get back to writing some more music! We appreciate you and thanks for having us on!
Thanks for the interview time, Reign! You can learn more about Bluphoria including info on their upcoming summer tour below. The band’s self-titled debut album is out on all DSP’s now!
Bluphoria, please visit http://www.bluphoriaband.com/
Watch “Ain’t Got Me” on YouTube here
A LITTLE MORE ON… EM BEIHOLD, THE EARNEST POP SINGER-SONGWRITER BEHIND “NUMB LITTLE BUG”
A LITTLE MORE ON… EM BEIHOLD, THE EARNEST POP SINGER-SONGWRITER BEHIND “NUMB LITTLE BUG”
Em Beihold // Courtesy of Republic Records/Moon Projects
Em Beihold is currently opening up for Lewis CapALdi and RECENTLY HOPPED ON a collaboration with Lauren Spencer Smith and GAYLE.
Em Beihold is not a fan of rollercoasters because they make her sad. I think… Well, it's a statement she makes loud and clear in the song Rollercoasters Make Me Sad. The track is effusive with punchy melodies and dulcet harmonies, while Em's lyrics often capture dissonant emotions through snappy metaphors. Here Beihold has carved out a niche with songs like the previously mentioned track, Rollercoasters Make Me Sad, Groundhog Day, 12345, and the massive hit Numb Little Bug. Rollercoasters Make Me Sad adds another ace to Beihold's songwriting book with how she succinctly captures feelings and a moment in time. It also should be on your Spotify or Apple Music rotation and playlists if it's not. It was back in March when I got to chat with Em during a presser, learning a little more about her as an artist and songwriter, how her songwriting process works, and even a bit about the inspiration behind her songs, which most of her songs touch on modern-day anxieties, relationships, and mental health/illness. She was also excited to be touring with Lewis Capaldi, a tour she is currently on. I asked her about working with Stephen Sanchez and how turning Until I Found Her into a duet came about. The song has her singing from the girl's perspective. One of the biggest collabs all started from Em liking his reels and her manager noticing, thinking they should do a song together. So, to my fellow creatives, this is a gentle reminder. You never know what might happen and who might see it. Keep creating, and do not be afraid to shoot your shot. I also asked about her future collaborations. Em said her dream collab is with Regina Spektor, an artist she says has been at the fiber of her work and artistry since day one. While Em may not be too fond of rollercoasters, she is currently on the wildest one of her life, and it's only getting started.
Stream “Eggs In The Backseat” out now on all DSPs
PHOTO GALLERY: 15th ANNUAL STAGECOACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
PHOTO GALLERY: 15th ANNUAL STAGECOACH MUSIC FESTIVAL
This past weekend after Coachella wrapped its two weekend stinct in Indio, CA. Stagecoach Music Festival rolled into town and took over to continue the party in the California desert. While the annual country music event is only one weekend, it still brought a pretty star packed lineup of country stars, icons, boundary pushers, genre blenders, and a bit of diversity. This year headliners were Luke Bryan, Kane Brown, and Chris Stapleton, each turned out incredibly massive crowds for their main stage shows. Artists and fan favorites like Breland, Jon Pardi, Elle King, Lainey Wilson, Priscilla Block, and Bailey Zimmerman also performed and had everyone singing along. Nikki Lane (A Stagecoach Veteran), along with band Old Dominion, Ryan Bingham, Keb Mo, and Valerie June, to name a few, were some who brought a more Alternative or Bluesy sound. DJs Diplo & Dillion Francis, plus Rapper Nelly brought party vibes to Stagecoach, while Rock icons ZZ Top and Bryan Adams still held their own. This year was the festival’s 15th year and anniversary.
You can view a ton of photos from the festival from incredible photographers in a slideshow gallery below courtesy of Stagecoach.
WHO: HEADLINERS: Luke Bryan, Kane Brown, and Chris Stapleton. Jon Pardi, Old Dominion, Brooks & Dunn, Riley Green, Gabby Barrett, Parker McCollum, ZZ Top, Bryan Adams, Tyler Childers, Elle King, Niko Moon, Turnpike Troubadours, Breland, Nelly, Diplo, Melissa Etheridge, Morgan Wade, Lainey Wilson, Priscilla Block, Ryan Bingham, Sammy Kershaw, Marty Stuart, Parmalee, Ian Munsick, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Bailey Zimmerman, Nate Smith, Kameron Marlowe, Luke Grimes, Jackson Dean, Nikki Lane, Valerie June, Trixie Mattel, Corey Kent, Warren Zeiders, Seaforth, Lily Rose, Sierra Ferrell, Drake Milligan, American Aquarium, Restless Road, Flamin' Groovies, The Last Bandoleros, Keb' Mo', Nick Shoulders, Jaime Wyatt.
WHAT: Stagecoach Music Festival
WHEN: April 28 - 30, 2023
WHERE: Empire Polo Fields, Indio, CA
PHOTO CREDITS: Are listed on each photo and courtesy of Stagecoach
KIM PETRAS + NICKI MINAJ TEAM UP ON HOT NEW POP SINGLE “ALONE”
KIM PETRAS + NICKI MINAJ TEAM UP ON HOT NEW POP SINGLE “ALONE”
Credit: Alex “Grizz” LoucasThe Grammy winner’s new track samples “BETTER OFF ALONE”, a classic euro dance track by alice deejay!
Fresh off her Grammy win for “Unholy” with Sam Smith, pop artist Kim Petras drops “Alone”, another dance-pop banger just in time for Summer and those party playlists! This time Petras teams up with fellow Republic Records artist Nicki Minaj on this song teeming heavy 90’s euro dance-pop influences with modern dance-pop. Nicki’s R&B-inflected rap is the cherry on top for this steamy club banger about giving in to your impulses.
“Alone” follows a string of major releases for Kim in the last few years, including the Grammy-winning “Unholy”, “Coconuts”, and “Future Starts Now”.
Since her Republic Records signing, she has already garnered award wins, a Met Gala appearance, and her first late-night appearance and interview. You catch Kim Petras this on many festivals coming up ahead, including, Governor’s Ball and Life Is Beautiful. Kim Petras is a star on the rise.
Stream Kim Petras feat. Nicki Minaj out now
INTRODUCING: THE BOMBASTIC ALTERNATIVE POP QUINTET THE SCARLET OPERA
INTRODUCING: THE SCARLET OPERA, THE BOMBASTIC ALTERNATIVE POP QUINTET
If you have not heard of The Scarlet Opera, the exciting quintet fusing Pop, Rock, and, yes, even Opera. Lyricist and frontman Luka Bazulka (whose natural grandeur is ever present and charming), with Colin Kenrick on Keys, Daniel Zuker on Bass, Justin Siegal on Drums, & Chance Taylor on Guitars. The glue holding the band together is friendship and identity. Identity, friendships, relationships, sexuality, love, loss, band life, and the music industry are major themes often explored within their lyrics.
Last month I got a few minutes to speak with The Scarlet Opera during a presser. I asked what the go-to karaoke songs were for everyone, and a fun type of chaos ensued. It seemed like ‘Skyfall’ by Adele was the overall favorite. You could feel the excitement from the guys. They were on the cusp of dropping their now-released new EP “Comedy”, the high of their first late-night tv performance on James Corden, and touring. There was a joy and bombast felt through the screen during the presser. Well aware of comparisons to their predecessors, they were flattered by it all. In an industry where bands and artists can get jaded quickly, it was refreshing to see. Yet, I found it more exciting to see a band that has finally begun to put the puzzle pieces together with their sound finding a niche in the big wide world of Pop music.
INTERVIEW WITH… SOUTH AFRICAN POP NEWCOMER WILL LINLEY
INTERVIEW WITH… SOUTH AFRICAN POP NEWCOMER WILL LINLEY
WILL LINLEY
Pop newcomer and Island Records artist Will Linley took some time out and spoke with The Reclusive Blogger about his new project and song “Last Call”, his influences, and artistical self, and growing up in Cape Town, South Africa, and the vibrant music scene there. You can read his interview below and check out his song and music video for “Last Call”.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Hi, How are you doing, Will? Thanks for the interview time!
WILL LINLEY: Thank you so much for having me, I’m doing so so well!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can you talk about your origin story and how that relates to the artist you are today?
WILL LINLEY: I grew up in Cape Town, South Africa, and music has always been a part of my upbringing. From my earliest days as a kid, I remember putting on shows for my dad when he’d come home from work or singing in all the choirs I could possibly be a part of. Music defined my childhood and I think that’s a huge reason why I’m doing music today.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What was the pivotal moment in music that rang the bell for you to choose this career?
WILL LINLEY: When I met the guys I make most of my music with, David Balshaw and Bubele Booi. We just connected from the first moment and they showed me how easy it was to create with a sense of freedom when you create music with your friends.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Let's talk about the single "Last Call". What was the inspiration behind it? And how did the music video come together?
WILL LINLEY: I wanted to create a song that everyone could sing and dance to, in the rooms, kitchens, or at a party! When dreaming of the music video, I wanted to incorporate my fans as much as possible and so I reached out to them and got 50 fans to be in the video as extras. It was such a fun day and I’m so glad we were able to pull it off because they made the video so much more special.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Can we talk about your typical creative process when writing? Did your normal writing/recording process change when making 'kill all my feelings', particularly since it was your major label debut?
WILL LINLEY: The process stayed more or less the same. The only thing that we had to work with was doing everything online over Zoom! That was the biggest challenge.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: How has hailing from such a culturally rich place like Cape Town, South Africa influenced your sound or aesthetic, if at all? And what is the music scene like there?
WILL LINLEY: The music scene is bumping here in South Africa! There’s such a rich and diverse space here that is truly so special. The pop scene is still growing, but it’ll come! We gonna make it happen.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What three words would you use to define your artistic self?
WILL LINLEY: Energetic, fun, “happy-sad”
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Recommend a playlist or podcast that has been 'on repeat"?
WILL LINLEY: “On Being” by Krista Tippett
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: And for my last question, what's up next for you in 2023?
WILL LINLEY: Lots more music and lots more shows!
Thanks for the interview time, Will! You can learn more about Will Linley below!
Stream “Last Call” on all DSP’s here
ALBUM REVIEW: Andrew McMahon in The Wilderness - “TILT AT THE WIND NO MORE”
ALBUM REVIEW: ANDREW MCMAHON IN THE WILDERNESS - “TILT AT THE WIND NO MORE”
When Andrew McMahon first set out on a new journey within his musical career as a solo artist he had to overcome one of his biggest challenges ever… tackling Cancer. Now twenty years later when so many artists seemingly disappear, even without all the hardships, McMahon continues to rise and make some noise in the Alt Rock and Indie Pop scene under various monikers and projects. His latest as Andrew McMahon In The Wilderness is possibly his most well-known. Quite honestly the perfect creative alias for McMahon for what he has been through to come out the other side (or out of the wilderness, see what I did there?) happy, healthy, and with a family of his own, now looking back on it all with this new album, “Tilt at the Wind No More” out now on Nettwerk. The album is brimming with nostalgia, particularly Y2K nostalgia. A period of time that the album cover hints at. A pair of hands, of what I would assume is the hands of lovers, that can barely hold on amid vivid bright chaos. The cover is the perfect way to let the listener know what type of musical journey you will be taking, the kind of bold strokes of musical color that Andrew will choose to paint with.
“Tilt at the Wind No More” is the fourth album for Andrew under his Wilderness moniker and features production from Tommy English. "Lying On The Hood Of Your Car" opens up the record and is a song that quickly grabs your ear. It also has an underlying vibe of melancholy and nostalgia that sets the listener up for the rest of the album. We segue into two previously released singles, "Skywriting" & "Stars”. There are some exuberant synths and what sounds like some acoustic guitars set off in the back of the mix for good measure. These songs borrow from McMahon's earlier sounds, such as folk indie and country pop, with jangly guitars and a driving beat and bassline. "Submarine" leads us into more subdued territory as one of the few ballads on this release. "Built to Last" is the one that hones in the emotion, all without that feeling mawkish feeling like "Submarine". The use of a vocoder only adds to the hazy lo-fi fever dream. The other highlights of “Tilt at the Wind No More” include the bouncy pop confection "New Friends". We get an unapologetically fun, retro synth-wave drenched tune on "VHS". "Little Disaster" finds Andrew taking us down memory lane, grateful yet introspective. While the album for nonfans might feel a bit disjointed at times or too reminiscent of the mid-aughts radio-friendly indie pop, it is still a solid release. For fans of Andrew McMahon, they will no doubt be more pleased with this album and delighted with how many beautiful high notes this has.
MEET JAWNY AND HIS BRAND OF VIBEY, ECCENTRIC INDIE POP
MEET JAWNY AND HIS BRAND OF VIBEY, ECCENTRIC INDIE POP
Los Angeles transplant is on the rise since his brand of quirky, lo-fi, authentic, and emotionally brand of vibe heavy Indie Pop music has garnered him a viral hit with “Honeypie” and now a solid (and dare I say hardcore) fanbase. The artist suddenly found himself with newfound success after that viral TikTok signed to the major label Interscope in 2020, where he dropped his mixtape EP, For Abby. It was a mixtape that was wholly created and conceived in lowdown, with many of those curiosities and insecurities felt on it. Jawnys' sound began to develop with more tools, people, and more at his disposal. It was something that would push you as an artist or drive you crazy with anxiety, but Jawny seemingly just dug into the tide of Gen Z new age sensibilities for his latest projects. The new songs, fall in love, true, plus last year's wide-eyed all capture a breezy California energy with slicker production and insanely catchy hooks. In speaking with Jawny during a presser recently. I asked him what if he got the chance to write a song based on his favorite piece of pop culture, What would he pick? So, ever the Gen Z and pop culture nerd, he chose quite an etched-in-our-skull moment from pop music history. When Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake donned matching denim-on-denim ensembles at the 2001 VMAs. Although, I am unsure if Jawny will ever get a chance to put pen to paper on this subject. I certainly don't doubt that the vibey sound he has been crafting wouldn't do it justice...
GUEST BLOG: GOOD BISON’S PABLO ALVAREZ SHARES HIS FAVORITE AND MOST INSPIRATIONAL TUNES
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER’S GUEST BLOGGER: GOOD BISON’S PABLO ALVAREZ SHARES HIS FAVORITE AND MOST INSPIRATIONAL TUNES
Good Bison is an Indie Rock band comprised lead by Pablo Alvarez, Abe Mendez, Agustin Mas (lead guitar), Sebastian Delgado on drums/backing vocals, and George Spits on additional production, mixing, and mastering. The first single, “Can’t Waste This High” from the newly released EP “Ghost on Mulholland”, dropped last winter and is a synth-pop-led number. The complete EP has the band diving headfirst into spooky, almost haunting territory. They find themself taking inspiration from a variety of things, namely nostalgia, ghosts, Los Angeles, R.L. Stine, and of course, his famous Goosebumps book series.
Lorde // Solar Power - “It took me much longer to get into “Solar Power” than it did Lorde’s first two albums, but once I got into it, I was in deep. I love how this song puts her toxic relationship with California, and LA in particular, at the forefront.“
Sabastian Yatra // Dos Oruguitas - “As a Colombian, I cannot tell you how much “Encanto” meant to me. It was a beautiful representation of my culture, and I couldn’t stop listening to this song for months after watching it.”
Paul Simon // 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover - “Paul Simon is a master genre-bender. It’s incredible how many sonic landscapes he explored in his music.”
Gorillaz // On Melancholy Hill - “One of my favorite songs of all time. Just because we’re sad, it doesn’t mean we can’t dance.”
Billie Eilish // Getting Older -“There were a bunch of songs I loved on Billie Eilish’s latest record, but this is one I keep coming back to again and again. My favorite version is a live performance that’s just her and Finneas on the piano.”
Taylor Swift // this is me trying -“AT LEAST I’M TRYING. I feel you, Taylor. Me too.”
Tame Impala // Feels Like We Only Go Backwards -“I love how the bass line compliments the lyrics and the melody in the hood. It really makes you feel like you’re going backward. There’s also an Arctic Monkeys cover of it that I couldn’t stop listening to for a while.”
Bon Iver // For Emma -“I’ve been inspired by so many Bon Iver songs over the past few years, but the horns in this one speak to me in a way I can’t begin to explain.”
Mac Miller // Good News -“The vulnerability of Mac Miller’s songwriting here is incredibly moving. I was a fan of his since the first day I heard “Kool-Aid and Frozen Pizza.” It’s amazing how I can fully relate to both his upbeat music and his more introspective stuff.”
The Beatles // Golden Slumbers -“Abe was the one who really put me on to this song. I had never truly appreciated it until I heard him playing it on the piano. For a good while I was also obsessed with the transition into “Carry That Weight."
The Cure // A Letter To Elise -“This song says so much before the vocals ever come in. It’s amazing how much that guitar is able to communicate in the intro.”
Phil Collins // Can’t Stop Lovin’ You -“Phil Collins is an absolute master. Undeniably. I was annoyingly belting this chorus around the house for way too long. There’s also a really nice Taylor Swift cover of this song.”
Joy Division // Atmosphere -“I’m fascinated with the way Joy Division is able to create such a specific ambiance with their music. I feel transported as soon as this song comes on.”
Arctic Monkeys // Riot Van -“Have you been drinking, son? You don’t look old enough to me.” I’m sorry, officer, is there a certain age you’re supposed to be ‘cause nobody told me? One of my favorite lyrics ever.”
Phoebe Bridgers // I Know The End -“Been listening to Phoebe Bridgers non-stop for the past year. This song in particular has been my biggest obsession lately. I love the way it builds.”
Good Bison Socials:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goodbison
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/goodbisonmusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/goodbisonmusic
INTERVIEW WITH… CONNECTICUT INDIE EMO ROCK BAND THE INSIDE OUT
INTERVIEW WITH… INDIE EMO ROCK BAND THE INSIDE OUT
THE INSIDE OUT
Connecticut Emo rockers The Inside Out are thrilling audiences and collecting new fans with their satisfying mix of Indie Pop and Emo Rock. Their debut album "No Brains, No Blood" was released late last year, and the band which is comprised of James Howard, Zach Stout, John Landino, and Andi Wright, recently played a show at NYC's famed The Bowery on February 11th. I talked with the group about their album release show, any musical influences, the debut album, and much more which you can read below.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Hi, guys let’s just dive in. Talk about your upbringing? How pivotal was music to each of you then? Were there any artists or bands that shaped those early years?
JAMES OF THE INSIDE OUT: I personally didn’t even think of music at all until I was about 9 when my parents bought me a Tama drum set. My dad set it up in our backyard shed at the time with some lights and when I could, I would go and practice. I was in band and drumline up until my freshman year of high school. However, I started playing football and didn’t pay much mind to music for a year or so after that.
(cont.) My younger brother Nick was taking guitar lessons and I would always hear him playing and shredding away in his room. To be honest, I loved hearing how his lessons would go, and it inspired me to mess around on the guitar with him and later take up the bass. I loved the idea of being self-taught and bought an acoustic guitar off a friend for $20. I started teaching myself and got a little Peavey amp for Christmas. I rarely left my bedroom practicing that next summer, unless I was walking around the neighborhood and hanging with my friends.
(cont.) I honestly haven’t stopped with music in general since. I got a lot of my early influences from bands such as Taking Back Sunday, Green Day, Modest Mouse, Brand New, and The Killers. There are so many more bands I used to listen to and love but those are really the ones that stuck with me.
ZACH OF THE INSIDE OUT: Starting with the Suzuki method for cello at age 3, my appreciation for classical music was spawned. A little later in my childhood, my dad was a major influence in getting me hip to classic rock; we’d jam out all the time in the car to Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, The Doors, and whatever else Sirius XM Classic Vinyl was playing. I decided to vastly expand my musical horizons again in the fourth grade when I picked up guitar and bassoon, before deciding to teach myself guitar after the fifth grade.
JOHN OF THE INSIDE OUT: Growing up I remember just being obsessed with my mom’s CD collection. She had a lot of RnB and movie soundtracks that exposed me to a lot of different stuff. Seal’s “Kiss From a Rose” comes to mind haha. I also remember jamming to Notorious BIG’s Life After Death album on the way to elementary school every day. That was lit.
(cont.) Coincidentally, I discovered Blink 182 around the same time I got a guitar in my hands for the first time, so naturally, I became obsessed with everything in their orbit and wanted to play it all. I feel extremely lucky to have been exposed to so much good music and to be alive at this point in time.
ANDI OF THE INSIDE OUT: I started listening to Aerosmith, Meat Loaf, and ‘90s boy bands when I was 5 years old, thanks to my trusty boom box that I still use to this day to play CDs and cassettes. I started learning piano around that time but ended up not sticking with it because my teacher scared my first-grade brain away with time signature fractions.
(cont.) The first time I really got into music that wasn’t what my parents put on in the car, it was the album The Young and the Hopeless by Good Charlotte when I was 9-10 years old. I started to gain more appreciation for music in middle school when Pop-Punk was at its prime with Green Day, Paramore, Blink-182, MCR, Fall Out Boy, Panic! At the Disco, and so many more. I dabbled with various instruments as a kid, but it wasn’t until 10th grade.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: How did The Inside Out form?
THE INSIDE OUT: We formed in early 2020 with Zach, Andi, and James, but we didn’t reach our final form until early 2021 when we snagged John off of a craigslist ad, haha. The band had a few different lineups from 2017-2019, varying from some of James’ high school and college friends, but nothing that really stuck. Honestly, he considers most of those times super fun and enlightening, which led this project to where it is now, but nothing has been official to him since the current lineup.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: Is there a set creative/recording process you have as a band? what was for this new release? How did you approach the creative and writing process this time on your latest release, "No Brains, No Blood”?
THE INSIDE OUT: Our creative process for songwriting usually stems from an idea James has dabbled with on his acoustic guitar and then presents to the full band. We’ll jam on it for hours if we like it enough. Each member will start dropping in their own flair and originality, and sooner than later we have a new song idea. Sometimes the best fuel for songwriting and creativity is taking a step away, walking around downtown, grabbing some drinks or food, and just talking about it.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: What are some goals you hope to accomplish as a band this year?
THE INSIDE OUT: We’re looking to continue to expand our horizons and play at new venues and cities as much as possible, and we’re hoping to make new friends and fans along the way! A major goal is to continue to introduce lovers of indie/alt-rock to our latest album No Brains, No Blood., and we’re looking to release some fresh tunes by the end of this year.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: I read that you’re playing at The Bowery in NYC coming up on February 11th. How are you prepping for that show and what are most excited for?
THE INSIDE OUT: We've been doing a lot of rehearsing and trying to refine the setlist. This is our first time playing the big stage at Bowery so we want that show to be the absolute best it can be. We’re also really excited to see all our NYC friends and family. It's gonna be an epic night for sure!
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: If you were to create your dream festival to headline what other three artists past or present would you pick as your co-headliners and why?
THE INSIDE OUT: Ooh, it’s tough to narrow our answer down to just three. Inner Wave, The Audiots, and Tame Impala would be super fun to play on a bill with. We have so much respect for the artistry that led each respective band to where they all are now, and those vibey, dancy strains of indie-rock that they’re each known for would mesh nicely with our sound.
THE RECLUSIVE BLOGGER: So, to close what's next on the horizon for The Inside Out?
THE INSIDE OUT: Good times are on the horizon! This year we’re looking to play a bunch of shows and go on tour in the fall. We’ve started writing our next album, which is more upbeat and dancy than our last, and we plan to release new music and a music video by the end of this year.
STREAM THE INSIDE OUT’S DEBUT ALBUM “NO BRAINS, NO BLOOD” OUT NOW
