Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Montreal Blues Powerhouse Sarah Sokal Debuts Bold Single "Man Made" from New Album Twisted Games


 
 
After veering from the adult contemporary and pop worlds, Montreal blues singer Sarah Sokal is bringing a sensational and powerful new album Twisted Games to listeners led by a delectable, brawny single "Man Made." It's a beefy, bluesy, party-starting track that showcases Sokal's alluring and alarmingly strong pipes, keeping the blues alive by bridging the gap between tradition and modernity, drawing in a younger audience who appreciate both timeless blues and the appeal of mainstream music.
 
"Man Made," co-written by Sokal and Stewart McKie and produced by DUBë (who also mixed, recorded, and engineered the song), brings to mind the likes of classic Amy Winehouse and the late Sharon Jones with its feel-good, uplifting tempo and confident, self-assured arrangement. Keyboardist Dave Lines complements Sokal's introductory verse before guitarist Andy Dacoulis, bassist Dray Woods, and drummer Jean Nadeau flesh the "Man Made" to perfection. It's a track that almost out-Dap-Kings Jones' iconic backing group.
 
"I feel like being a woman in the industry calls for having a male sherpa to climb up!" Sokal says. "I have always been accompanied by a chosen male advisor/protector. I would love to experience being more surrounded by women creatives in the future, but it wasn't in my cards that much so far."
 
Sokal, who cites Beth Hart and Susan Tedeschi as influences along with icons such as Peggy Lee, Etta James and Dinah Washington, grew up listening to rock and rhythm and blues in her teens. That blues passion resurfaced and solidified after meeting producer Marc Dube for a coffee in Montreal a few years ago. "I had two songs written, and I had a strong desire to record a full blues album destined to be a vengeance album, turning the ugly I've experienced through my journey in the industry into something beautiful and empowering," she says.
 
"Man Made" is from Sokal's Twisted Games album, a 13-track release whose origins began during the pandemic and faced challenges with social distancing during the recording process. Wanting to put her own stamp on the record, Sokal found the freedom to "express myself better" with this record and developing her artistic identity and sound. She also says the creative process is what fuels her passion. "It is never fully conscious decisions; I just go along with my instincts," Sokal says. "I like to paint and write songs without a plan or a proper canvas. That's where the pure and true energy feeds my imagination."
 
Sokal has had an illustrious career thus far. Writing her first song at age five (entitled "Pourquoi"), the musician professionally recorded her first song "I'm Lost" when she was just 15. From there she performed as a teenager in various hotels around Montreal and Quebec before forming The Sarah Sokal Band. Her group performed at various private functions, corporate events, and fundraisers, showcasing a musical mix of pop, adult contemporary, and blues. She is also a vocal coach and has worked with a variety of Juno Award-nominated and Juno Award-winning artists.
 
Sokal's previous releases include EPs entitled Ink and Paper, the five-song effort Your Song and Broken Promises. The singer, who recently performed at Montreal's Sutton en Blues Festival, was also a runner-up in the International Songwriting Contest's Song of the Year category.
 
https://sarahsokal.com/

Saturday, June 21, 2025

Oscar Peris



Oscar Peris, a singer-songwriter from Valencia, Spain, based in the Netherlands, presents his song "Get Rid of Your Ego".


Oscar Peris is a singer-songwriter from Valencia, Spain, who currently resides in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Early in his career, he began writing and performing his songs in Catalan, and later began writing and singing in English as well. Oscar could be considered a folk singer, his songs often talk about life, love and spirituality, and in them one can see a Bob Dylan influence.

https://www.facebook.com/people/Oscar-Peris/100063790262262/
https://www.instagram.com/the.worried.man/
https://x.com/Oscarllauri
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvgc6fD8XbsGoQ0MCKNUIng

Wednesday, June 18, 2025

Downstone




Downstone is a Finnish band formed in 2005 in the Bothnian Bay area, specifically in the towns of Oulu and Kemi. After several changes in the line-up, the band eventually consisted solely of Oulu-based members. This allowed Downstone to focus on developing their own sound and style of music. During recent years the band has relocated to USA and Finland. Downstone’s music blends rock and metal, characterized by melodies and a strong atmospheric presence. The band experimented also with acoustic arrangements for their existing material in 2007, which led to the release of their unplugged album, ‘Hinderance’, in 2008. Since 2005 Downstone has performed in various live line-ups and completed a total of four releases as singles, EPs, full-length albums, and live albums. In 2024, Downstone is preparing for the release of their new full-length album, entitled Colours of Addiction. The album is set to release at the beginning of 2025, preceded by single releases. Colours of Addiction was recorded at Mastervox studios and at City Theatre studio in Oulu. The album is mixed by Jari Niemi (Oulu) and mastered by Robin Schmidt (Biffy Clyro, Post Malone etc) in Karlsruhe, Germany.

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565456753943
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/downstone/1771371897

Sunday, June 15, 2025

The Fury by Antonio Vergara: A Revival of Contemporary Blues

Antonio Vergara has made history by being nominated for the prestigious 2024 GRAMMY® in the Best Contemporary Blues Album category, becoming the first Latin American artist to receive a nomination in this legendary category. The Fury not only reaffirms his place as one of the most relevant artists in the genre but also offers a bold and rich proposal that reimagines contemporary blues with a blend of tradition and experimentation that only an artist of his caliber can achieve. This album stands as a masterpiece that captures the essence of blues while pushing it into exciting new territories. With impeccable production and high-level collaborations, The Fury not only stands out for its technical virtuosity but also for its deep emotional connection and ability to resonate with a broad audience.

A Bold Fusion of Tradition and Modernity

Released on August 29 and composed of 13 carefully crafted tracks, The Fury takes listeners on a journey through the deepest roots of blues, while introducing modern and exploratory elements that enrich the sonic experience. Antonio Vergara, renowned for his masterful skills with the electric guitar, lap steel guitar, and resonator, offers a repertoire that feels both intimate and expansive, blending classic influences with a contemporary approach that keeps the genre fresh and relevant.

From the rhythmic intensity of "My Lucky Mojo" to the melodic introspection of "Delta Shine," every song on The Fury is an artistic statement that celebrates the richness of blues. Vergara does not shy away from exploring the emotional complexities of the genre, navigating themes of mysticism, resilience, and rebellion with authenticity that deeply resonates. Tracks like "Superstitions Lead the Way" and "Hoodoo" not only pay homage to the Delta blues traditions but also reinterpret them, presenting them in a new and contemporary light that speaks to the modern listener.

High-Level Collaborations and Exceptional Production

One of the highlights of The Fury is the quality of its collaborations. Vergara surrounds himself with some of the most influential voices in blues and jazz, including Grammy® and Emmy nominees and winners. These collaborations not only add vocal and musical diversity to the album but also elevate each composition, adding layers of richness and complexity that allow each track to shine on its own. This collaborative approach reflects Vergara's ability to weave multiple influences into a cohesive and captivating work.

The production of The Fury is a testament to Antonio Vergara's unwavering commitment to artistic excellence. Working alongside Claudia Correa at AVA Recording Studios, who handled the recording engineering, Vergara has achieved a sound that is both visceral and polished. Correa's mix captures the rawness and soul of the blues while her technical approach ensures exceptional clarity and depth in each track. The synergy between Vergara and Correa is evident in the quality of the album's sound, achieving the perfect balance between raw emotion and technical precision.

A Sonic and Visual Journey

The experience of The Fury extends beyond the auditory, also extending to the visual aspect with artwork that encapsulates the album's energy and intensity. Designed with a vibrant psychedelic style and intricate patterns that recall the mystical symbolism of blues, the cover not only catches the eye but also reflects the bold character and fusion of tradition and modernity that define Antonio Vergara's work. This visual representation invites the listener to fully immerse themselves in the world Vergara has created, a place where the music is not just heard but lived.

Resonance and Relevance in Contemporary Blues

The Fury is more than an album; it is a deep exploration of the human soul through the universal language of blues. Antonio Vergara not only reaffirms his place in the contemporary blues scene but also pushes the boundaries of the genre, offering listeners an experience that is both reflective and liberating. Songs like "The Rebel’s Right" and "No Fear in Heart" capture the duality of blues: the ability to comfort and challenge, to reflect pain and celebrate resilience.

Each track on The Fury is an invitation to explore the emotions that define the human experience, from melancholy to hope, with moments of pure musical catharsis. This album not only stands out for its technical virtuosity and sonic richness but also for its ability to connect emotionally with the listener, offering a window into the depths of blues while celebrating its continued relevance in modern life.

The Fury by Antonio Vergara is a work that honors the roots of blues while challenging its limits, offering a fresh and powerful proposal that stands out in the Best Contemporary Blues Album category for the GRAMMY®. With exceptional production, high-level collaborations, and an artistic vision that balances tradition with innovation, Vergara has created an album that not only sounds exceptional but also leaves a lasting mark on the blues scene. It is a celebration of music in its purest form and a reminder of the transformative power of blues, an invitation for all to discover and appreciate Antonio Vergara’s mastery in The Fury.

 https://antoniovergara.ffm.to/thefury

Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Keeana Kee




Keeana Kee is a New York City-based independent artist, singer, songwriter and fashion model. She has worked with some of the leading producers, remixers and DJ's in the world, and she was a member of ISINA, Inc., a music talent search and mentoring program involving some very notable names in music industry like Walter Afanasieff, Paul Oakenfold, Randy Jackson and other legends. 

Keeana is originally from Latvia but moved to and started performing in the UK as a teenager before moving in 2018 to the U.S. Keeana’s Exotic style is a combination of Pop, Latin and Afropop influences that brings integrity to her work, that is refreshing and full of exotic taste. Her soulful vocal timbre is often compared to Sia, Shakira and Rihanna. 

Keeana Kee is most known for her collaboration with the Latin Grammy- winning producer Maffio on her tropical reggae single "Coconut Rum and Coke" - a breezy pop- reggae track that mimics the laid back vibe of its title. Keeana and her exotic pop tunes will make you want to dance on the beach and fall in love. Her sultry voice and sexy lyrics take songs from day to night, beach to a club, and can bring summer to every season.

https://linktr.ee/KeeanaKee


Saturday, June 7, 2025

Red Skies Mourning



Red Skies Mourning is a Maryland-based solo Artist, Chris Aleshire, harnessing soul, emotion, letting music take him down roads both familiar and unknown.

"Myosotis", the latest album by Red Skies Mourning, captivates listeners with its ethereal soundscapes and emotive storytelling. This release has already sparked a wave of excitement among fans and garnered praise from music critics for its innovative blend of rock and ambient tones. With strong early streaming numbers and positive feedback across social media, "Myosotis" stands out as a powerful testament to Red Skies Mourning's artistry and growth. Its lead single has begun gaining airplay on key independent stations, solidifying its potential to resonate widely. 

https://redskiesmourning.com/

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

John Calvin and The Barnstormers

 



Having signed with Rock Sun Records/Virgin Music Group this is John's second release.

"Pike County Coal" is a poignant blend of country and blues that captures the heart-wrenching story of a man reflecting on a life spent in the coal mines. As he faces the weight of grief after losing his wife and watching his children grow and move on. He now finds himself buried in the struggles of his past as well as that very mine. With soulful melodies and raw, emotional lyrics, this song resonates deeply with listeners who understand the toll of hard work and loss. 

https://www.facebook.com/johncalvinky
https://music.apple.com/us/artist/john-calvin-and-the-barnstormers/1766593840

Sunday, June 1, 2025

Zita

 


Zita is a four piece group that fuses classic rock, funk, and blues to create a live show that surpasses expectations. Founded on their shared love for rock & roll music the days of their youth, and an affinity for the great music history of New Orleans, their sound resides uniquely between these two worlds. Formed in 2019, the band consists of Michael Mullins on Lead Vocals, Trombone and Rhythm Guitar, Bradford Lewis II on Lead Guitar, Dylan Caillouet on Bass, and Kai Melancon on Drums. 


As of late, the band has had success with local festival appearances at Hogs for the Cause, French Quarter Fest, Gretna Fest, Oak Street Po-Boy Fest, and NOLA Crawfish Fest. Also, Zita has had high-profile sit-ins from musicians such as George Porter Jr. (The Meters), Nigel Hall (Lettuce, Tedeschi Trucks Band), Luther Dickinson (The Black Crowes, North Mississippi All-Stars), and Brad Walker (The Revivalists, New Orleans Suspects). 


From Zita, you can expect vibrant rock & roll energy, the New Orleans groove with a southern flair, and most of all, a great damn time.

 

 

https://www.facebook.com/zitaband

https://www.instagram.com/zita.band/

 https://www.zitaband.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgFSz6P5GEhLyQmzpoULgPw