Catherine M Thompson - Papa's Photo Jazz, Celtic/Folk, Rock, Classic Rock, Rap Burlington, Canada Overall Impression: Singer Catherine M. Thompson sets listeners up for a jazzy holiday season with her new song Papa's Photo. Swinging along with a colorful sound and robust horns, Papa's Photo instantly makes a strong statement. It grooves with a Big Band spirit that will have fans of Jazz and Classic Pop ready to hit the dance floor. Lyrically, Papa's Photo describes the wonderful Christmas tradition of taking a family photo at the bottom of the stairs. It is nostalgic and full of fondness. Thompson has a lovely singing voice that enriches the lyrics with a sweetness of tone. Papa's Photo boasts one of those melodies that is impossible to get out of your ear. It smacks with the memory of Ol' Blues Eyes and other great artists who dealt in the classics. All in all, Papa's Photo is a wonderful snapshot of a Christmastime tradition placed in a cool Jazz setting. Strongest Point(s): The lyrics in Papa's Photo are very detailed and produce a vivid image. You can even see the colors of the clothing, stairs, and walls just from listening. The additional vocal harmonies in the chorus are a very nice touch that really helps this section of the tune stand out. Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Classic Pop, Jazz and Holiday tunes will enjoy Papa's Photo by Catherine M. Thompson. Artist target suggestions: Lori Cole/Art Hughes, Harry Connick Jr., Barbra Streisand, James Dean, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole, Rod Stewart, Michael Buble, Carole King, Anita O'Day, Peggy Lee Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional guitarist in New York City. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured the world as a classical chamber musician, onboard cruise lines, and with several Broadway musicals. His recorded work spans across Classical, Pop, and Experimental music. His arrangements are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.
Christopher Ames Band - Forever 21 Rock, Classic Rock, 90s Rock New York, United States/span> Overall Impression: Having had the great fortune of reviewing the equally dazzling "Dancing With Ghosts" by The Christopher Ames Band, I'll be honest and say that I was most definitely eager to dive into this new offering, and I'm glad to report that my high expectations were not only met, but resoundingly exceeded. "Forever 21" is as electrifying as I had hoped it to be, the riff work is phenomenal, the lead playing is as tasteful as it gets, and as I've come to now expect from Christopher Ames and his fellow musical cohorts, both the writing and sheer musicianship on display is both awe inspiring and deeply accomplished. "Forever 21" serves as a great mix of rock styles, and whilst you could say its sound is heavily rooted in classic rock, the generous dashes of alternative inspired elements that course their way throughout allows for an interesting blend of musical flavours to be achieved, allowing Christopher and co to explore a number of interesting stylistic expressions that keep the arrangement sounding continually fresh and exciting from start to finish. Strongest Point(s): This is a Christopher Ames tune, where do we begin?! Alongside the exceptional performances and deft production that ensures each and every minute detail in the arrangement is effectively captured and conveyed to the listener, the attention given to the way in which the music flows is always a strong pillar in Christopher's music, this could be the way the rhythm guitars effortlessly ebb and flow between moments of driving palm muted chordal work and more open sounding arpeggiated sections, or the fantastical dashes of melody-driven lead guitar work that excitingly pop up throughout, there's a refreshing dynamism to the writing that listeners can really feel. Undeniably catchy, steeped in personality, and unequivocally well put-together, "Forever 21" is a great piece of writing that many a listener can enjoy and appreciate. Target Audience Appeal: There's a great blend of classic and alternative rock styles on display here and I can certainly see a broad range of rock lovers being able to appreciate what "Forever 21" has to offer. Artist target suggestions: The Main Squeeze, Ripe, Bahamas, More Fatter, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, Steve Miller Band, Neil Young, Matchbox Twenty, Jungle, ALO, Parcels, Maddison Cunningham, Tame Impala, Rachel Mazzer, Genuine Panama, Weezer, Counting Crows, Franc Moody Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.
Ian's Fortress - Whispers Foretold Rock, Folk, Classic Rock California, United States For Fans Of: Weezer, AC/DC, Paramore, Alice Cooper, Peter Frampton, The Killers, Snow Patrol, Social Distortion, Coldplay, Shakira, Dash Berlin, Bad Company, Sammy Hagar, Brandon Flowers, Ted Nugent, Van Halen, David Lee Roth, Cheap Trick & Aerosmith Interested in being a New Music post? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Free Song Contest under your Special Offers menu on the RadioAirplay.com dashboard! #folkrock #music #rock #folk #folkmusic #singersongwriter #s #bluesrock #countryrock #rocknroll #indierock #classicrock #guitar #vinyl #blues #livemusic #indie #psychedelicrock #americana #rockmusic #vinylcollection #hardrock #bobdylan #songwriter #acoustic #newmusic #indiemusic #singer #indiefolk #poprock
Michael Hamilton - Back From The Dead Metal, Rock, Classic Rock Maine, United States For Fans Of: Metallica, Ozzy Osbourne, Korn, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen, Three Days Grace, Limp Bizkit, Seether, Disturbed, Nickelback, Skillet, Drowning Pool, Avenged Sevenfold, Green Day, Tool, In This Moment, Black Sabbath, System of a Down, AC/DC, Linkin Park, Slipknot, Arch Enemy, Aerosmith, Alice in Chains, Iron Maiden, The Doors, Citizen Soldier, Lindsey Stirling, Queen, The Rolling Stones Interested in being a New Music post? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Free Song Contest under your Special Offers menu on the RadioAirplay.com dashboard! #rock #music #metal #guitar #s #rocknroll #musica #rockmusic #hardrock #pop #punk #heavymetal #band #love #musician #rockandroll #guitarist #livemusic #singer #alternative #live #art #blues #concert #rockband #metalhead #drums #photography #grunge #bass
Don Sprik & Freewheelin - Just Around the Corner Rock, Classic Rock, AAA Michigan, United States Overall Impression: Veteran rockers Don Sprik & Freewheelin have released their latest tune Just Around The Corner. Living by its own rules, Just Around The Corner opens with a gnarly guitar riff rife with attitude and crunch. The tune features a moderate classic rock groove that will surely draw listeners to the edge of the stage. Don Sprik brings a 70's rock edge to the vocals, leaving a mischievous trail in its wake. He is supported by Jon Jarecki, Al Arkestyn, and Jim Markle on the bass, drums, and keys, respectively. Guitarist Jimmy Warren grabs his moment in the spotlight with a sizzling guitar solo and stylish rhythm work. All of the band members bring their own voice to the tune, but always work in support of the vocals and lyrics. Overall, Just Around The Corner by Don Sprik & Freewheelin is a cool new rock tune that shows the importance of a good band and a good time. Strongest Point(s): The real attention grabber is the cool guitar riff. It is very Metal in essence, but has been put in a classic rock idiom. Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Classic Rock will dig Just Around The Corner by Don Sprik & Freewheelin. Artist target suggestions: The Rolling Stones, Billy Idol, Eddie Money, Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, Ted Nugent, Don Henley, The Eagles, Led Zeppelin, Bad Company, Wild Cherry Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured as a classical chamber musician, onboard luxury cruises, and with the Broadway musicals Finding Neverland and Escape To Margaritaville. His recorded work spans from classical works and pop tunes, to mind-bending experimental music. His arrangements of orchestral music are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.
The Willing - Christmas With You Rock, Vocal Rock, Classic Rock Chicago, United States Overall Impression: The Willing deliver a gorgeous contemporary Christmas ballad, with their release of "Christmas With You." Elegantly textured vocal harmonies fill out a strikingly sophisticated arrangement on this timeless track that feels like it could be from nearly any era. "Christmas With You" tugs on the heartstrings by invoking that special nostalgia reserved for the holidays, that resides deep inside of all of us. Compelling melody, wistful lyrics, and a stirring performance make The Willing's "Christmas With You" more than deserving of a spot on any holiday playlist, and should delight listeners for many years to come. Strongest Point(s): Outstanding production, solid mix. Absolutely brilliant arrangement, particularly in the vocal harmonies. Great melody, unpredictable yet beautiful. Vintage pop structure that should aid in its longevity. The metallic percussion and strings really give this track that distinctive Christmas sheen. Some really nice little piano flourishes and fills that add wonderful color. Classic, intimate lyrical content that should engage listeners. Overall, just a fantastic piece of song craft that certainly should stand the test of time. Amazing work, by everyone involved. Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Christmas Music, Pop, Traditional Pop, Jazz/Pop, Adult Contemporary, Easy Listening Artist target suggestions: Neil Diamond, Michael Bolton, Perry Como, Barry Manilow, Burt Bacharach, Peabo Bryson, Robbie Williams, Neil Sedaka, Christopher Cross, Al Jarreau, Michael Buble Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Steven Azami is a multi-instrumentalist with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. Both as a touring/session player and as a producer, his career has spanned nearly every genre, from bluegrass to jazz, from rock to reggae. In addition, his work as a music educator has allowed him to cultivate and foster talent among the next generation of musical explorers
Ian's Fortress - For You Rock, Folk, Classic Rock California, United States Overall Impression: Leading the way with an atmospherically chilled out groove, Ian's Fortress crafts a sprawling sonic space from quintessential Classic Rock elements in the original track, "For You"! Quickly, the initial lilt gives way to a steadily driving pulse - lending a solid foundation for earnest vocal efforts and soulful Blues Rock riffs that echo with sincerity as "For You" spirals onward and outward. Strongest Point(s): Adventurous in feel and immersive in overall tone, "For You" brilliantly bears a now timeless instrumental sound! The tones selected for the various instruments work excellently for the style and blend well in the song's final mix - effortlessly inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the soundscape and lose themselves to the feel. The solo guitar work that weaves the final minutes of "For You" is as easy-going as it gets, nearly mesmerizing those that tune in. The inclusion of a different percussive feel and drive in the track's introduction also adds depth and drama to the experience through contrast while still feeling as though it belongs to the whole. Killer work! Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Blues Rock and just a hint of Psychedelic flair will fall headlong into the sound that Ian's Fortress is developing - with the overall arc of "For You" offering listeners a journey through nostalgia-filled instrumental tones and hypnotic solo guitar expedition! Artist target suggestions: The Doors, Creedence Clearwater Revival, Donovan, Joe Walsh, Buffalo Springfield, George Harrison, Jethro Tull, The Who, The Yardbirds, The Doobie Brothers, Badfinger, Crosby Stills & Nash, Canned Heat, Allman Brothers Band, Band Of Skulls, Black Mountain, J.J. Cale, Led Zeppelin, The Good the Bad & the Queen Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Jon Wright is a trained multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and music educator with nearly twenty years of experience in the field. Working with musicians and their individual sounds is his passion and profession, and he strives to interact with and understand every aspect of the production process - from theory and songwriting to recording and mastering. He continues to teach students of all ages and is currently collaborating with artists across a wide range of genres.
Finding Butterflies - Iron Cross Rock, Classic Rock, Alternative Rock Arkansas, United States Overall Impression: Managing to effortlessly blend elements of prog and traditional Celtic folk styles together with both aplomb and a striking sense of grandiose, "Iron Cross" is an undeniably inspired piece of songwriting that combines accomplished performances with an exhilarating sense of uniqueness. Finding Butterflies clearly aren't afraid to push their musical boundaries into almost ethereal levels of harmonic experimentation, resulting in an invigorating piece that's full of nuanced melodic detail and striking complexity. Strongest Point(s): There is something unequivocally unique about Finding Butterflies, so much so that you simply can't help but find yourself being instantly swept up in the harmonically rich musical soundscape that they have crafted in "Iron Cross". This particular track showcases the duo's deeply layered and texturally diverse songwriting style brilliantly and manages to strike a perfect balance between its eclectic mix of styles. The delicate interweaving of elements from prog, rock, and Celtic folk have become synonymous with Lisa and Don's sound, and it's fascinating to hear these subtle genre nods interspersed throughout, from the Celtic inspired woodwind to the rock guitar lead solo flourishes, the result is a textured and thematically rich soundscape that's filled to the brim with a stunning amount of tonal and timbral diversity. As you would expect with a Finding Butterflies tune, the performances are extremely accomplished, Lisa's vocal delivery is nothing short of epic in its execution, not only are the harmonies intricately crafted but they have an almost celestial quality to them that is wildly mesmerizing. A soaring lead vocal performance is backed by Don's impressive multi-instrumentalist talents, offering up a sophisticated and varied musical backdrop that matches Lisa's equal musical dexterity perfectly. "Iron Cross" is a journey, one that requires an attentive ear and keen musical disposition in order to fully appreciate its conceptually and thematically fascinating traits. Target Audience Appeal: I think there is certainly something here for a broad range of music lovers, but I can certainly see lovers of folk, prog rock, and traditional Celtic music connecting with this track on a deep level. Artist target suggestions: Kate Bush, Florence + the Machine, Heart, PJ Harvey, Yes, Patti Smith, Stevie Knicks, Grace Jones, This Mortal Coil, Enya, Erutan, Orla Fellon, Lisa Kelly, Myrkur, Emerson, Lake and Palmer, King Crimson Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Andre is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.
Quantum Dissonance - No Second Chance Rock, Classic Rock Colorado, United States Overall Impression: With its poignant lyrics and heartfelt vocal performance, "No Second Chance" is a sincere and emotionally deep piece of songwriting that comes from the heart and is courageously adventurous in its musical expression. Quantum Dissonance has written a classic-sounding ballad that is layered and full of interesting ideas. Strongest Point(s): There is a great sense of melody showcased throughout the song, and the artist is obviously well versed in the rock genre and the main elements that comprise it. The lyrics are thought-provoking and emotive, perfect for a ballad, and are sung in a smartly understated manner. The instrumentation works extremely well for the style of song, the acoustic guitars provide the right amount of tonal delicacy, the electric guitars help provide urgency in the chorus and the drums provide a good backbone for the lead vocals. Target Audience Appeal: This will definitely appeal to fans of classic rock, this has a great ballad vibe to it, and fits the genre very well, so without a doubt, this should be the main area to target. Artist target suggestions: Guns N' Roses, Alter Bridge, Poison, Aerosmith, Scorpions, Daughtry, Seether, Tesla, Dire Straits, U2, Bon Jovi, Eagles, R.E.M, Heart, Boston, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Bryan Adams Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Andre is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related and strived to become a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.
Waiting For Waffles - Robot's Lament Rock, Alt Rock, Classic Rock Arizona, United States Overall Impression: Waiting For Waffles hearken back to the day when rock bands weren't afraid to be bold in their musical expression, with a hunger to experiment with unconventional sonic possibilities and quirk laden songwriting, Robot's Lament is a brave and fearless foray into progressive rock, combining a multitude of audacious ideas with a rollicking sense of attitude, this is a promising start for a band of such a young age. Strongest Point(s): Considering the young age of most of the band, this is a confidently written song that obviously boasts many of the band's individual musical styles and tastes, combining them together to create a conceptually interesting piece of music. There is already a level of musical maturity shining through as well an adventurous feeling to the songwriting, and it's great! All the players here are doing a great job, with a few refinements needed but we'll talk about those in the next section. Target Audience Appeal: This certainly fits well in the Prog Rock genre, it has a courageous sense of songwriting that feels forever fresh and exciting, this would definitely be the particular audience to target. Artist target suggestions: Yes, King Crimson, Uriah Heep, Focus, Frank Zappa, Faith No More, Dream Theater, Porcupine Tree, Blue Cheer, Iron Butterfly, Leaf Hound, Frijid Pink, The Groundhogs Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Andre is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related and strived to become a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording.
Ricksha Radio - Undone Rock, Classic, Indie Vermont, United States Overall Impression: Undone is the newest release by Prog Rock group Ricksha Radio. Opening with a cool bass line and screaming guitars, Undone gives the first impression as being a killer rock tune but soon takes listeners through an extended journey of styles. The song turns pages between metal, industrial, electronic, folk, and a dozen other genres. The transitions are sometimes abrupt and at other times a slow burn. Generally speaking, Undone is a musical collage. Lyrically, the song portrays a somber message about the ramifications of suicide. With images of loss, sympathy, anger, and confusion, Undone appears to arrive from the stream of consciousness of someone in the various stages of grief. After a second listen, it is clear that Undone is not trying to be anything in particular, it is its own massive world full of ideas and variation. Overall, Undone by Ricksha Radio is so intriguing and performed so virtuosically, that it has no problem keeping listeners hooked for twelve minutes. Strongest Point(s): Without a doubt, the instrumental work is the highlight on this track. The different sound worlds the song passes through require very adept musicians. Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Prog Rock will be at home with this great new release by Ricksha Radio Artist target suggestions: Nine Inch Nails, Pink Floyd, Coheed and Cambria, Rush, Porcupine Tree, Meatloaf, Dream Theater, Nile, Kansas, Nevermore Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured internationally as a classical chamber musician, in the show band onboard luxury cruise lines, and with the broadway musical Finding Neverland. His recorded work spans from classical works and jazzy holiday tunes, to mind-bending experimental music. His arrangements of orchestral music are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.
David Herman - Another Piece of the Puzzle Alternative/Alt. Rock, Blues, Rock, Classic Rock New York, United States Overall Impression: From just the first first few seconds of "Another Piece Of The Puzzle," I get an overwhelming sense that I am watching a scene in an Old Western film. Starting off with a melodic beat of the drum, guitar and soft toned vocals, David Herman paints a picture of someone who is lost and in search of answers as the instrumentals and vocals become more prominent, especially with another set of harmonizing vocals. When an unexpected violin kicks in around right in the middle of the song, it gives the listener to process and connect to what David is saying and relate to the idea of desperately trying to understand life and understanding the world. "Another Piece Of The Puzzle" is a beautifully sorrowful song that we have all been able to relate to in one way or another at some point in our lives. Strongest Point(s): Both the harmonizing and the violin add an element of "grit" that kicks this song up a notch. This piece is multi-dimensional that make the listener feel the same sense of longing for answers that David is singing about. Target Audience Appeal: Anyone who enjoys Indie, Rock, Folk, Alt/Rock will enjoy this song. An audience who loves to go to a local venue and watch an artist soulfully perform their songs with a guitar and lyrics that tell a meaningful story will love this. Artist target suggestions: Sturgil Simpson, Foo Fighters, Neil Young, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Coldplay, Nirvana, Nick Cave, Red Hot Chili Peppers Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Maggie Quinn is an inspired music enthusiast and appreciator who does not discriminate against any genre or style. Seeking out new, upcoming artists/bands and marketing them to the masses by curating playlists, word of mouth, or through online platforms is her passion. She is on a daily quest to learn more about the never ending and ever evolving music world and develop her marketing skills in the music industry. Maggie has a history of scouting out upcoming artists at a start up record label and is striving to leave a positive impact on the upcoming artist community.
Jimmy and the Beautiful Mistakes - Falling Down Rock, Classic Rock, Roots Pennsylvania, United States Overall Impression: "Falling Down" is the first track on the 2019 album release Gettin Better from Pittsburgh rock band, Jimmy and the Beautiful Mistakes. Jimmy Marino's mellifluous vocal rises above a bed of soulful organ, piano and guitars to deliver such heartbreakingly melancholy lines as "You know tears don't make a sound, but sometimes they're so loud." Cory Derringer and Ben Skinner build a confident and solid foundation, on bass and drums respectively. Highlighted by an exciting bridge and a great singable chorus, this track has the possibility of broad audience appeal thanks in part to the obvious care that went into its craftsmanship. Strongest Point(s): Production sounds great, good tonal balance. Love the filter on the intro riff. Clever progression on the prechorus, fantastic hook once you arrive at the chorus. Outstanding bridge, does a great job of mixing it up, some interesting things there harmonically and dynamically. You might want to consider working that bridge in a second time, it's that good! Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Rock, Pop, Pop Rock, Acoustic Rock, Singer/Songwriter, Pop Soul, Adult Contemporary, Indie Rock, Indie Pop, Americana Artist target suggestions: Ben Kweller, Ben Folds Five, The Decemberists, Jonathon Coulton, Iron and Wine, Sufjan Stevens, Avett Brothers, Reid Genhauer, Nick Lowe, Bare Naked Ladies, Toad the Wet Sprocket, The Tragically Hip, Billy Joel, The Wallflowers, The Band Interested in having your Song Reviewed by our Professional Staff? Head to your RadioAirplay.com dash and click Song Reviews under the Special Offers menu!
About the Reviewer: Steven Azami is a multi-instrumentalist with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. Both as a touring/session player and as a producer, his career has spanned nearly every genre, from bluegrass to jazz, from rock to reggae. In addition, his work as a music educator has allowed him to cultivate and foster talent among the next generation of musical explorers
