Julia Thomsen, ‘Eternal Love Acoustic Guitar’

Julia Thomsen

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

Julia Thomsen’s ‘Eternal Love Acoustic Guitar’ performed by the Strings of Light is like entering a spiritual haven. Listening to the opener takes me away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and into a serene and peaceful realm.

The gentle tunes soothe my soul, luring me to take a deep breath and revel in the splendour of the here and now. A picture of limitless love and everlasting grace is painted with every string sweep and pluck of the guitar, adding to the emotional canvas.

I feel enveloped in a tranquil embrace, where worries melt away and contentment fills my being. Because of its profound simplicity and exquisite beauty, the song touches me on a profound level.

You can take a listen below. Hopefully, you get the same feeling as I did!

Photo Credit: Julia Thomsen.

Ervin Munir, ‘Chase The Moon’

Ervin Munir

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

I recently got sent Ervin Munir’s latest track, “Chase The Moon,” and it’s left a strong mark on me. With each strum of Ervin’s acoustic guitar, I felt myself drawn deeper into the wall of sound he delivers. Also, what sets this track apart is the accompaniment of Aeron Z Jones’ lap steel and mandolin.

Their collaboration is one to rave about! it breaths new life into Ervin’s already distinctive playing style. Moreover, the interplay between the instruments adds layers of depth and texture, elevating each track to new heights.

As someone who’s been a fan since Ervin’s “She Never Made Old Bones” days, I can confidently say that “Chase The Moon” is a bold step forward in his musical journey. It’s a track that demands to be listened to, not just heard, and one that will linger in your mind long after the final chord fades away.

You can stream below.

Photo Credit: Ervin Munir

Quique Gomez and Little Charlie Baty, ‘Cookin’ At Greaseland’

Gulf Coast Records

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

As “Cookin’ At Greaseland” roars onto the scene, brace yourself for a cacophony of auditory pleasures! Thanks to Gulf Coast Records, this newest masterpiece by the dynamic duo of Quique Gomez and Little Charlie Baty—along with the musical talents of Kid Andersen and Alexander Pettersen—is set to be released on April 26th, 2024.

“Cookin’ At Greaseland” is a passionate and heartfelt tribute to the great Little Charlie Baty, who passed away too soon. This album, compiled and produced by Kid Andersen, takes listeners on a whirlwind tour through a wide range of musical styles, from infectious jump tracks to heartfelt blues ballads. The magic that happens when talent, passion, and new ideas meet is captured on every note.

The lead track, “Thirstiest Man In Town,” which is currently available, instantly grabs your attention! In this track, you can feel the soul-wrenching agony expressed through the haunting harmonica, while Gomez’s vocals, laden with pain, unveil the essence of human existence. Baty’s guitar work adds a compelling mix of raw emotion and polished technique, intensifying the themes of hopelessness and redemption. And let’s not forget about Andersen’s performance—it’s simply mesmerizing, capturing every subtle nuance and whisper of despair with crystalline clarity and depth. It’s truly remarkable.

You can stream “Thirstiest Man In Town” below.

Photo Credit: Gulf Coast Records.

Cloud, ‘Room’

Cloud

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

‘Room’ by Cloud beckons us into a transcendental voyage where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur into a kaleidoscope of sound. The opening guitar lures us in like a siren’s call, setting the stage for an adventure into the depths of musical enchantment.

But ‘Room’ is not content to merely captivate; it evolves, it transforms. Like a phoenix rising from the ashes, Cloud’s vitality infuses every note, guiding the track through a metamorphosis that leaves you spellbound. Each layer of sound is crafted with precision, building upon the last to create a symphony of color and texture that dances in your mind’s eye.

And just when you think you’ve reached the pinnacle, ‘Room’ ascends even higher, reaching a radiant crescendo that defies description.

You can stream below.

Photo Credit: Cloud

Julia Thomsen, ‘Beauty’

Julia Thomsen

Words By Joey Rochert.

In the ethereal expanse of classical composition, where each note is a brushstroke upon the canvas of the soul, Julia Thomsen’s ‘Beauty’ emerges as a serene gem, resonating with the tender essence of spring.

With delicate keystrokes, Thomsen paints a landscape of tranquility, inviting us to wander through the verdant pastures of our imagination. The piano becomes her vessel, carrying emotions as fragile as blossoms in the breeze, each melody a whispered secret shared with the heart.

As the first strains of “Beauty” unfurl, one cannot help but be enveloped by a sense of serenity, as if the very essence of spring has been captured within its melodic embrace. “Beauty” also finds its home amidst the celestial gathering of talents in “Harmonies of WoMen,” a compilation album celebrating the prowess of female pianists from across the globe.

You can take a listen below.

Photo Credit: Julia Thomsen.

Marsha Swanson, ‘Gustav Mahler’s Letter of Intent & Alma Mahler’s Lament’

Marsha

Words By Joey Rochert

Marsha Swanson’s “Gustav Mahler’s Letter of Intent & Alma Mahler’s Lament” stands out with its timeless tale of love, longing, and the complexities that bind two souls together. Spanning generations and emotions, this track duo delves deep into the tumultuous relationship between Gustav Mahler and Alma Mahler.

With an intimate connection to the Mahler legacy as a distant descendant, Swanson brings a unique perspective to her interpretation of their story. Through a careful blend of Gustav’s impassioned letters and Alma’s heartfelt lamentations from her diary entries, Swanson weaves a narrative that is as haunting as it is captivating.

The first track, “Gustav Mahler’s Letter of Intent,” serves as a poignant portrayal of Gustav’s fervent devotion to Alma. In stark contrast, “Alma Mahler’s Lament” presents Alma’s side of the story—a lamentation of love lost and dreams shattered. Swanson’s emotive delivery imbues Alma’s words with a sense of sorrow and resignation. Also, the melancholic melodies blend seamlessly with Alma’s poignant reflections, creating a hauntingly beautiful ode to a love that was destined for tragedy.

You can take a listen below.

Photo Credit: Marsha Swanson.

Mike Zito, ‘Life Is Hard’

Mike Zito

Words By Emily Kowalczyk.

Mike Zito’s “Life Is Hard” is a mirror of his enduring power in the blues scene, and it is presented with raw emotion and musical finesse. Released under Gulf Coast Records, this album is a poignant journey through life’s struggles and triumphs, masterfully crafted by a team of seasoned professionals.

A product of Sunset Sound Studios in Hollywood and produced by blues virtuosos Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith, “Life Is Hard” benefits from top-notch production and a stellar lineup of musicians. Zito’s vocals and guitar work are complemented by the soulful contributions of additional guitarist Joe Bonamassa and keyboardist Reese Wynans, among others.

The album’s twelve tracks showcase Zito’s versatility as a songwriter and interpreter of the blues. From the haunting “Lonely Man” to the soul-stirring “Forever My Love,” each song resonates with authenticity and depth. Zito’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery invite listeners to reflect on love, loss, and the human experience.

You can stream it below.

Photo Credit: Mike Zito | Gulf Coast Records.

Cloud, The Interview Series.

Cloud

Hello, Cloud, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘Runaway Train’, what is the meaning? 

I chose this title because the powerful guitar sounds and drum beats dive into the dark side of humanity.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

Dave Grohl. He has had success with two legendary bands: Nirvana and Foo Fighters.

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2024?

My song ‘Runaway Train’ is featured in various outlets.

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

Anywhere. ‘My room’, ‘on the way home from work’ and ‘in my dreams’.

What is your first memory of music? 

Ozzy Osbourne, who I saw on MTV when I was about 10 years old.

Photo Credit: Cloud.

Tanya Walker, The Interview Series.

Tanya Walker

Hello, Tanya, Let’s talk about your new single, ‘Good Days, Bad Days’, what is the meaning? 

I wrote the song when I was 32 so some time ago. I had just come out of a painful breakup and was re-focusing on my music again – and at the same time feeling regretful about things I had not yet achieved in my life.

I went away on a  3 day meditation retreat where I had the opportunity to notice the thoughts and emotions that are constantly changing within us  and was able be with and accept them – recognising that just like the seasons or changing weather – our  emotions are the same –  like the sun follows rain, if we can be with our more painful emotions they will lift to reveal the light within us. It’s also about there being no point to regret, as we will miss the beauty of the present moment.

Which artists in the current industry inspire you the most?

Joni Mitchell is still being discovered by younger artists and she had a huge influence on songwriting when I first began at 16 years old. The tender, poetic expressiveness of her lyrics and the way her voice then expresses their meaning captures my heart and I am in awe of everything her music is.

Kate Bush , although an artist from the past, has also been a huge influence in my life and I really respect her ability to keep progressing with her music to recreate herself and still be relevant. I love blasting her music, singing at the top of my voice and doing some free movement around the living room!

Billie Eilish I think is an incredible artist, especially for her age. Profound songwriting for such a young age and the textural quality of her voice is spellbinding.

What is the best thing about being a musician in 2024?

After COVID I don’t think we can ever take for granted being able to perform with fellow musicians to a live audience. So playing live will be great in 2024. I won the Global Talent Is Timeless songwriting competition in 2023 and towards the end of the year recorded my winning single at Abbey Rd which has just been released. I’m really looking forward to 2024 being about building on this success and connecting with new listeners through more new releases and a small UK tour. I cant wait!And every year I get older, I feel more relaxed when gigging live, meaning I enjoy the whole experience that much more!

Is there a certain place you often go to write? E.g a certain room, or environment?

Strangely  I get some great ideas in the car and end up recording myself on my phones voice record. I think it’s because part of my brain is driving so its preoccupied with that and there is no pressure to come up a with a song so it just naturally arises. My favourite place though is most definitely on my upright piano which dates back to 1830 and which belonged to Gustaf Holst’s piano accompanist (who helped him write his works in later years which he was unable to do due to arthritis). Its been passed down through the family and has the most beautiful harmonics and resounding sound which inspires many songs!

What is your first memory of music?

Singing ‘Lully, Lullay’ whilst playing the main part of Mary in the school Nativity when I was 5!

Photo Credit: Tanya Walker

Unveiling the Future of Music Software With VELCOA

VELCOA

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