J. Alan Schneider Unveils Honesty, Reflection And Fate During His EP Release Show at Rockwood Music Hall

 
J. Alan Schneider with raw honesty & emotion at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

J. Alan Schneider with raw honesty & emotion at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

When J. Alan Schneider released his new EP On Precipice in October, we couldn’t wait to see him perform the new record on stage – an EP so tenderly rich with patient guitar riffs, soft and timid melodies and a surrealism of vivid imagery that can only be bred from one of the scene’s most gifted folk artists.

We sat down with the J. Alan last month to discuss his EP’s lead single, "The State Line," and the creative process behind the records overall theme. There was no doubt that the Queens-bred indie-folk artists' haunting elegance, lyrical illustrations and raw storytelling ability were shown graciously throughout the EP would eventually marvel on stage during his release performance. We were anxiously waiting to see how it would play out.

J. Alan Schneider on the strings at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

J. Alan Schneider on the strings at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Alan’s performance at Rockwood Music Hall’s stage 3 last Wednesday guided us through the singer-songwriter’s journey of accepting and adapting to fate. Alan’s timid vocals, distinct honesty and acoustic sound channeled an uncanny tale of human emotion, atonement and reflection that was touched with each fabric of his lyrical shroud. His music was a shepherd to our ears, placing tranquil and raw sentiments that maintained a sense of noir while Alan ruminated through his guitar play.

His performances to "Labor Day" and "All The Same" shined gently with precious harmonies, profound, yet tender acoustics and caressing lyricism that brought us into Alan’s consciousness and reflective artistry. With candid lyrics such as, “What if the world was taking place/behind a camera phone/and if the world was breaking down/ would anybody know/if it’ll grow on frozen ground under seas/ will it be,” Alan’s precedence on these songs are illustrated through expressive storytelling and compositions, that exemplify the artist’s unique folk-singing approach.

J. Alan Schneider performing in front of an intimate crowd at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

J. Alan Schneider performing in front of an intimate crowd at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

On the EP’s leading single, "The State Line," Alan’s performance portrayed hints of melancholic imagery and delicate melodies for his warm, yet dark take on fate. Alan’s passionate and relieving vocals helped serene a soothing crowd from the portrayal of his voice and earnest guitar strings.

On his song, "They’re On to Us," Alan’s displayed a euphorically glowing performance that gently whispered over amplifying strings and calming percussion. His gifted storytelling ability is shown through his tantalizing and subtle lyrics through the song. “This day belongs to us/,” Alan crooned, “The cracks and gleams and scuff/and the side streets are so rough/ they lied to us/.” Another illustration of Alan’s purity and veracity that relished as we witnessed the folk artist perform.

J. Alan Schneider performing a quaint acoustic show in front of a Lower East Side crowd at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

J. Alan Schneider performing a quaint acoustic show in front of a Lower East Side crowd at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

J. Alan Schneider’s artistry is an esthetic platform for the contemporary indie-folk catalog. His work as a singer-songwriter is purified through the honesty of his lyrics, gentle, yet rough-edged compositions and a blistering vocal that helps us captivate our own humanity. Through his themes of fate, lost and reflection, Alan utilizes his musical talent as a wandering storyteller, passing though the events of common folk, while also contemplating his own path. His music is raw and stellar to the indie-folk scene and is a pedestal that fans of this scene can relate with: truly a treasure worth witnessing and listening to.

J. Alan Schneider performing his EP release show at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

J. Alan Schneider performing his EP release show at Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 3. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

For more on J. Alan Schneider, be sure to follow his socials and listen/stream to his EP, “On Precipice” today. Out now on all digital stream services.


 

J. Alan Schneider

iTunes | Spotify | Bandcamp | Soundcloud

Facebook | Twitter | YouTube | Instagram

 

Deem Spencer's Raw Emotion Shined At El Cortez

 
Deem Spencer breathing on the mic at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Deem Spencer breathing on the mic at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

New York’s independent hip-hop scene has endured a multitude of changes over the years with the rise of trap-infused beats and sharp-edged vocals; this growth has spawned some of the mainstream titans that flow through our airwaves today.  As listeners crave for the club ravaging and intensifying sounds of trap music one can argue that the raw lyricism, vivid storytelling and deep productions of New York hip-hop - which made the east coast so successful - has been put on the back-burner.

Yet, some of NY’s young and talented emcees continue adopt the traditional flows of east coast hip-hop alive with fresh new sounds and production, which altogether, has even attempted to move the trend needle forward: This is where Deem Spencer comes in.

Deem Spencer prepping up at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Deem Spencer prepping up at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

The Queens-based rapper, overnight, has become one of the biggest talks on the scene and has impressed both his listeners and audiences with razor sharp lyricism, honest emotion and raspy-esque flows. His ambling vocalization and handsomely smooth compositions resembles the flows of Mos Def mixed with a hint of Tyler, The Creator.

Over a series of crispy bundled-up beats blended with an array of soft keys and complex strings, Deem’s rhymes are as complex as his stage presence: keeping audiences guessing and on their toes for what comes next next.

We came out to El Cortez in Brooklyn last Saturday to watch Deem Spencer’s performance of his latest EP, “We Think We Alone.” The show took place at El Cortez’s, The Safari Room, adjacent to the Tex-Mex bistro in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn (definitely recommended for some hearty bites and luscious margaritas). The faint aromas of Mary Jane, overnight IPA hops and cigarettes hovered in the air as audiences slowly poured in to catch a scent of some good old NY hip-hop.

Deem Spencer movin' on stage at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Deem Spencer movin' on stage at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Crimdella and Venture Klan opened the show for Deem as they kicked off the night with ferocious bars, brilliant production and ravaging beats that assailed audiences into that uptown sound that never disappoints.

Crimdella, aka Black Zeusx, provided a series of poetic rhymes and intense imagery that breathed heavily through pulverizing beats. Zeusx’ gripping charisma on the mic pierced through every chord, as the Harlem emcee broke into the crowd – getting us wiled up for an awesome night of hip-hop.

Venture Klan also offered a pulsating performance through their club-banging anthems filled with character, swag and humor. This three-piece act conquered the stage with their enduring styles; precision-like flows and energetic jibes that made The Safari Room crowd keep their hands in the air. They even gave us some free merch for us to make our friends hate us just a little more.

Deem Spencer showing his lyrical talent at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Deem Spencer showing his lyrical talent at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

With his performance on “We Think We Alone,” Deem Spencer delivered an unforgettable performance that was rich, grieving and outright amusement that forced us to all “shake our a$$” while Deem performed the record in its entirety. Inspired by the death of his grandfather last winter, the Queens-based artists’ stage presence reflected a mellow and introverted persona, it was Deem’s precise melodies and intricate wordplay that helped keep audiences afloat – keened in on his heavy-hearted storytelling and brilliance.

Perfectionist, soft-spoken and meticulous, the Southside Jamaica emcee, poured his soul into every bar and mastered them beautifully behind a complex nebula of sensual synths, soulful chords and a mix of venomous beats that elicited a challenging sound of emotion and exasperation.

Deem opened with a killer freestyle on Saturday that showcased the indie-rapper at his lyrical best, along with an early 90’s-esque boom-bap and lulling keys. On “Soap” and “Eve’s T*****s,” we caught a glimpse of Deem’s vivid symbolism, strategic metaphors and illustrious productions with an instrumentation that’s unnerving with its precise strings. On these tracks, we got a sense of Deem’s patience and detailed flow that spoke assertively through his mic.

Deem Spencer spittin' on the mic at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Deem Spencer spittin' on the mic at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

The night flowed on, and on tracks such as “Mother Earth” and “Moonflower,” we saw Deem with a more peevish and scrappier vocal with a high degree of synths and complex percussions. With “F***d Up Flowers,” Deem relieved himself of that conservative stage presence with a groovy chilled-out track that got him, Sly Cooper and the rest of crowd “shaking their a$$.” With a jazzed-out J-Pop sample, patient chords and complex percussion, Deems' vibed out track helped to bridge that relaxed demeanor with a stellar upbeat performance.

Deem Spencer’s nebulous sound, smoky aroma and artistic lyricism is blueprint for the future of indie hip-hop. It’s genuine & cunning, apologetically honest and deeply descriptive with grief & empathy. With raw emotion and petite aggression, Deem Spencer’s metaphoric scriptures are surely a trend ahead of today’s mainstream and independent hip-hop scenes. No doubt, Deem Spencer will be obtaining that recognition as his music persists.

Deem Spencers honesty & grief on display at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

Deem Spencers honesty & grief on display at The Safari Room. Photo courtesy of Sergio Carrasco.

 

For more information, and to stream/download his music, follow Deem Spencer today. Also be sure to catch Deem live at his next show at Baby’s All Right on December 4.

 

Deem Spencer

iTunes | Spotify | Google Play | Amazon

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

 

 

Water Seed Marvels The Bitter End During The We Are Stars 2017 Tour

 

Water Seed continues their dominance as one of the premier funk/soul acts in the independent music scene. Their performance at The Bitter End resulted in a pumped-up-crowd standing ovation that marveled New York City through the bands innovative musicianship.

Hailing from New Orleans, Water Seed’s funkalistic performance was vocally breathtaking, soulfully beloved and instrumentally magnificent as the sounds of jazz, funk and early 60’s R&B flushed throughout the legendary NYC venue.

Water Seed kicked off the night with a little “Funktimus” while audiences danced away to their seats, feeling the vibe of Water Seed’s livid and extravagant sound filled with dynamic horns, immense string and rumbling percussion that ascended through rivetingly alluring vocals. The band’s impressively funktagious performance blew us away with a jammed out session bursting with big band arrangements and reverberating instrumentation.

Water Seed’s breezy Nawlins’ groove, “Work It Out,” was a delightfully smooth example of the band’s soulful and jazzy-esque sound that allowed audiences to give themselves away to the chilled early 60’s boardwalk rhythms. Water Seed’s refreshing jazz piece, “Duke’ish,” held electrically jazzy overtones, funky 70’s-esque vibes and profound artistry that merged beautifully among soothing keys and distinct basslines.

Nawlins’ finest then gave the crowd a little positivity under their song, “Brand New Day,” as Lou Hill led the charge with an “I feel good! - I feel great!” chant, guiding audiences through a full-on jazz-funk fest filled with a harmoniously spacious flute, seductively provocative keys and driven horns. Berkley The Artist and Shaleyah added another powerful vocal performance as Water Seed jammed out on stage in front of a packed crowd, offering a climactically exhilarating voice ushered with gospel-esque and funkadelic rhythms.

Water Seed’s memorable performances continue to be a testimony to the band’s innovative and progressive style that has dominated the indie music scene. Their album is rich with immense sound, charming melodies, funkalistic grooves and complex instrumentation. Their sound forces audiences on their feet – to dance, applaud and relish in the Water Seed experience.

The band’s vigorous energy, jazzy arrangements, along with genre binding musicianship, allows Water Seed to sustain their spine-tingling presence within a genre that continues to gain appeal in the industry.

Make sure to catch Water Seed live in a city near you and download/stream, “We Are Stars,” today! Tour dates and locations shown below.

 

Tour Dates

7/13. Seven. Santa Barbara, CA

7/18. Hotel Utah. San Francisco, CA

7/19. Crazy Horse. Nevada City, CA

7/20 through 7/22. Peppermill Casino. Reno, NV

7/23. Lagunitas. Petaluma, CA

7/25. Winston's. San Diego, CA

7/27. Pour House. Oceanside, CA

7/28. Hotel Cafe. Los Angeles, CA

 

Water Seed

iTunes | Spotify | Google Play | Amazon

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

 

Bruce Sudano Examines Music, Society & Politics at The Cutting Room

 
Bruce Sudano on stage at The Cutting Room.

Bruce Sudano on stage at The Cutting Room.

Bruce Sudano performed his record release show this month at The Cutting Room in New York City for his new album “21st Century World". In front of a full crowd at the renowned midtown venue, Sudano guided us through his journey of love, reflection and acceptance, while also brilliantly examining the societal, political and emotional facets we endure today.

A prolific singer-songwriter and instrumentalist, Bruce Sudano has had a distinguished career co-writing songs for Michael Jackson, Jermaine Jackson, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire and his late wife, the Grammy-awarding winning and generation-defining artist, Donna Summer.

For music enthusiasts out there (including you hardcore disco fans), Sudano managed most of Donna Summer’s career and co-wrote some of her biggest hits including “Bad Girls”. Sudano was also one of the founding members of late 60’s pop-rock band Alive N’ Kickin’ and late 70’s doo-wop/soul band Brooklyn Dreams. Alive N’ Kickin earned a Billboard Hot 100 spot with their record “Tighter, Tighter,” as well as Brooklyn Dreams with their song “Music, Harmony and Rhythm".

Bruce Sudano performing "Your World Now" during his album-release show at The Cutting Room.

Bruce Sudano performing "Your World Now" during his album-release show at The Cutting Room.

Just coming off a European tour with emerging New York rock band, Hollis Brown, Sudano’s masterful performance was an inspiring, bold and informative excursion into the human element of today’s social and political challenges. The veteran musician’s distinct range of sound, beautifully coiled melodies and visionary storytelling illustrated Sudano’s brilliance on stage and the meticulous artistry he provides in his music.

As opposed to the jazz, pop and soulful elements portrayed in previous solo works, Sudano’s recent masterpiece provides listeners with components of American rock & roll, folk and activist song-writing that merge the lines between music and politics. Since the untimely passing on his late wife, Sudano’s music has increasingly gone into the fabrics of adulthood and the issues surrounding our society through his personal experiences.

In a direct testament to Sudano’s versatility and reach as an artist, we witnessed the singer-songwriter’s adaptive lyricism and precise compositions in his songs “Your World Now” and “It Ain’t Cool". Sudano’s intuitive arrangements gave off indie-folk and rock elements that enhanced a collection of voluminous beats, sassy strings and fine narratives. His passion and confident eloquence were illustrated beautifully in these performances as he sat intimately close to us, singing the memoirs of our time.

Bruce Sudano performs "21st Century World" at The Cutting Room

Bruce Sudano performs "21st Century World" at The Cutting Room

His songs “True Believer” and “Common Sense” exemplify Sudano’s strength as a vivid storyteller and a measured songwriter. His take on the meaning of Christianity in “True Believer” are presented with still folk harmonies and revealing Americana vibes. In “Common Sense", Sudano provides a softer piece coupled with a smoldering outrage that calls for us to wake up and understand the responsibilities within our fragile society.

One of the more memorable segments of the evening featured Mike Montali, lead singer of New York rock band Hollis Brown and producer of Sudano’s “21st Century World” album, who performed over Sudano’s cover of Tracy Chapman’s “Talkin’ Bout a Revolution". As the crowd majestically clapped their hands, Montali and Sudano delivered a resounding performance that was filled with a communal and defiant sound.

Bruce Sudano (far-left) and Mike Montali (right) performing Tracy Chapman's "Talkin' Bout a Revolution" at The Cutting Room.

Bruce Sudano (far-left) and Mike Montali (right) performing Tracy Chapman's "Talkin' Bout a Revolution" at The Cutting Room.

With storied musicianship, gifted songwriting and avid storytelling, Bruce Sudano’s sound has transcended throughout the decades from timeless dance hits to protest memoirs. Despite the ups and downs throughout his career, Bruce Sudano has maintained relevancy with an ever-changing sound that customizes to the changing times. “21st Century World” is a brilliant example of Sudano’s resilient lyricism, indulging musicianship and embracive measure. Certainly a must listen for the year.

Bruce Sudano on the guitar at The Cutting Room.

Bruce Sudano on the guitar at The Cutting Room.

For more on Bruce Sudano, please visit his social below and make sure to download/stream, “21st Century World,” today. Out now on all digital and streaming music platforms.

 

Bruce Sudano

iTunes | Spotify | Google Play | Amazon

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

 

Water Seed Gives Audiences a Pulse-Pounding Performance at The Bitter End

 
Water Seed put on a funkadelic set at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Water Seed put on a funkadelic set at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

There are few bands that are able to lift you from your seat, get your ass dancing and shake you to the core. This month, at The Bitter End, we came across a seductively ferocious, untamed and blistering hot act that had the entire venue moving their hips – forcing us to fall victim to the funkalicious grooves and electrifying vocals of this incredible New Orleans based band.

Water Seed live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Water Seed live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Water Seed is soulfully wicked, progressively complex and dynamically elegant. The indie-band’s indulging appetite for keen musicianship, passionate lyrics and uncontainable energy illustrate Water Seed’s versatility that spans the sounds of funk, jazz, gospel and soul. Deeply rooted in rhythm and classical music, Water Seed seeks to rekindle a unique flame in independent music that relishes on originality and creativity.

J Sharp on the keys live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

J Sharp on the keys live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Originated by multi-instrumentalist Lou Hill, Water Seed delivered a high-energy performance equipped with affable melodies and an innovating sound that's conquered the hearts of audiences nationwide. Water Seed stunned us all that evening with empowering vocals, gorgeously soothing beats and romanticizing keys – coupled with a funk-infused style that had the West Village pumping.

Lou Hill was an incredible force on drums and played a perfect host for the packed out Bitter End crowd. We were hooked by Hill’s groovy rhythms and agile beats, providing a volcanic addition to Water Seed’s dominating showcase. His drum play was gripping, ill and explosive. Thoughtfully tooled with personality and charisma, Hill’s soulful and jazzy performance had us on our feet the entire set.

Lou Hill getting down on the drums at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Lou Hill getting down on the drums at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Jentleman Sharp’s (J Sharp) fantastic play on the keys offered a tendered and sophisticated sound that resonated from the keyboardist’s savvy and polished compositions. His performance was breathtaking – poised, charismatic and lean. His play levitated us from our seats, calling us to focus on him and the band as a whole. His acute sense of strategic music arrangements offered more depth and complexity to Water Seed’s already multifaceted sound.

Shaleyah on vocals at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Shaleyah on vocals at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Shaleyah and Berkley the Artist sing away at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Shaleyah and Berkley the Artist sing away at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Lead singers, Shaleyah and Berkley the Artist, were outstanding throughout the evening. Their soulful and gospel-esque vocalists carried the room towards the stage and never let us go. They elicited powerful melodies and tantalizing hymns that paired perfectly with the bands Nawlins party funk and choir praising style. Along with an array of orchestral-trained instrumentalists and renowned flutist, Chinese, Shaleyah and Berkley conquered the legendary Bitter End with a party-like atmosphere that collectively struck our desires of great music and dance.

Chinese on flute at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Chinese on flute at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Water Seed is not only one of the biggest emerging artists coming out of the Big Easy – they’re a movement – a transforming marathon that graciously offers a unique infused look at how contemporary funk, jazz and soul should work together. Stemming from the sounds of both new and old, this high-energy, electrifying future-funk coalition has funked the hell out of some of the biggest joints in the country. Along with a relentless advocacy for empowering rhythms, soulful melodies, church wailing vocals and just straight up funkadelic rifts, Water Seed is a game changer in the independent music scene.

Berkley the Artist and Chinese live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Berkley the Artist and Chinese live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

This is a must watch for anyone who wishes to experience an electrified show filled with blood-pumping music and an impressive live act. Get funked up with this revered all-star cast today and catch them in a city near you.

 

Water Seed

iTunes | Spotify | Google Play | Amazon

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

 

Humankindition Offers a Breathtaking Performance During Exclusive Release Show at Club Bonafide

 
Humankindition at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Humankindition at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

The Fox and King paid witness to newly formed jazz electronic band, Humankindition, last Thursday as they put on a gorgeous performance at Club Bonafide during the exclusive release show of their new single “Daydreaming.”

In front of an intimate crowd at the legendary music venue, this euphorically dangerous live act displayed a level of musicianship that masterfully blended the sonic scopes of jazz, soul and electronic music together. We were fortunate enough to be one of the first to get our hands on Humankindition’s latest single from an exclusive download card handed out to all guest in attendance.

Samir Zarif (Saxophone) and James Quinlan (Bass). Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Samir Zarif (Saxophone) and James Quinlan (Bass). Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Blown away by the brilliance of their artistry, Humankindition’s rich compositions highlighted for us the quartet’s strategic music arrangements and genre-binding depth that garnered such a soothing, yet gritty performance. Lead by veteran saxophonist, Samir Zarif, Humankindition’s creativity provided a cloud of complex instrumentation that released a storm of jazzy-esque elements, conquering beats and mind-cleansing soul engulfed in musical euphoria. The band’s commanding, yet gentle touch, lifted us firmly from our seats and cradled us within a pacifying state of tranquility.

Samir Zarif at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Samir Zarif at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Samir’s skillset on the sax was phenomenal. Truly excellence at it’s finest. His instrumentation was innovative, breezy and dynamic. On their new single, “Daydreaming,” Samir illustrated the complexities of his musicianship through a gracious sound that whispered gently through our ears, shepherding progressive and soulful harmonies that allow this genre to feel refreshing.

His superior command of the sax on “Innocent Complex.” peppered a fresh entrée of alternative jazz paired masterfully with a decadent flow of urban soul and spiced-up beats. His fine play throughout the night formed an ocean of relaxation that kissed you on your ear with every wave, while forcing you to brace the elements with an explosive and captivating sound.

Tommy Hartman on drums. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Tommy Hartman on drums. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

James Quinlan on Bass. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

James Quinlan on Bass. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Bassist, James Quinlan, and drummer, Tommy Hartman, added a supportive touch to this incredibly awesome set with soul-tendering bass play and core-shredding beats. Quinlan’s funky, yet delicate compositions added a depth of complexity that forged a unique sound to this already progressive four-piece act. His soulful rhythms and hospitable musical range coupled beautifully with all members on stage, increasing the levels of their excellence.

Tommy’s petulant and voluptuous rhythms challenged the genres status quo with an intuitive urban sound that portrayed confidence and action. His sounds usurped the presences of hip-hop and urban funk that sustained the band’s character and utility.

Arcolis Sandoval on the keys. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Arcolis Sandoval on the keys. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

The latest addition to this versatile electronic jazz band, pianist Arcolis Sandoval, displayed on an awe-inspiring performance on the keys last week, providing a sentimental range of delicate harmonies, groovy rhythms and a luscious attitude. Sandoval’s command of the keys offered a sweet condiment to the bands hunger for creativity and thirst for originality. Her craft was smooth, gripping and seductively powerful – clearly an addition that allows this band to take the next generation of this genre to new heights.

Arcolis Sandoval & Samir Zarif live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Arcolis Sandoval & Samir Zarif live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Humankindition is defined through its passion for human connectedness and progressively meaningful music that illuminates origination and creativity. With deep influences that span across Radiohead, Thundercat and Bjork, Humankindition composes music that reflects the essentials of human existence – mesmerizing audiences in a trance of futility that frees the mind of past thought and future worries. Their music allows others to embrace their utility and acceptance – a soundtrack of songs fit for the present moment. Truly a series of work that all must experience.

Humankindition might just be one of the emerging sounds you might hear five to ten years from now in a genre grappling between old and new. The astronomical talent that exists within these four artist’s instrumentation is astounding and is a must listen to anyone that appreciates the aesthetic and sentimental pleasure the sound of jazz gives us.

Humankindition live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Humankindition live at Club Bonafide. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos

Follow and listen to Humankindition today!

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram

 

The Zombies Reclaim their Status Amongst The Pillars of Rock & Roll In NYC

 
 
 

Rod Argent and Colin Blunstone - founding members of legendary British invasion band the Zombies - played an impressive set at Rough Trade NYC last month in front of a packed-house filled with generations of inspired fans. Argent and Blunstone showcased an incredible set that was indicative of the Zombies harmonious sound and psychedelic expressions. Their performance highlighted how the band has reclaimed their relevancy in the rock & roll genre; while also making a substantial impact on both older and younger audiences bridging the gap between classic and modern rock.

As with most British Invasion bands that spread through the airwaves throughout the early to mid-1960s, the Zombies began touring the United States in 1964 behind their hit single, “She’s Not There,” which peaked to No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. the Zombies performed at various venues across the U.S. while on tour and made their first U.S. television appearance in 1965. Their subsequent hit single, “Tell Her No” peaked at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March of 1965 and had become one of their biggest U.S. releases.

After signing with CBS Records from Decca Music Group, the Zombies released their classic studio album, Odessey and Oracle, in 1968. Over the past several decades, the album has since received international acclaim as one of the staples of 1960s expressionism with the Zombies hit song, “Time of The Season,” “This Will Be Our Year” and “Care of Cell 44.”

On that Thursday evening in Brooklyn, we were honored to witness Argent and Blunstone perform some of the Zombies' hit songs that triumphed during their 1960's debut. With open arms, Blunstone’s entrancing voice embraced audiences as they were drawn closer to the intriguing harmonies and melancholy hooks. The duo opened the show with the charming “Tell Her No” followed by the Zombies' debut hit “She’s Not There.” We stood together with the crowd and sang along with Blunstone’s cadent voice, echoing graciously across the stage. He helped the crowd follow his lead, providing comfort for both those reviving their youth and for the new generation reaffirming their appreciation for the Zombies' pioneering sound.

We were ultimately blown away when the Zombies performed their hit song, “Time of The Season,” when the crowd, no matter the generation, sung along to the classic record. Blunstone and Argent’s breezy acapella smoothed our ears with the songs expressive harmonies and relaxed melodies that were able to make us feel as one. They also performed songs from Still Got That Hunger, which provided audiences with a fresh taste of the Zombies latest works such as, “Moving On” and “Edge of the Rainbow,” that exemplified the band’s historic versatility and dynamic reach within their music.

Our experience of the Zombies performance that evening was intangible. The ability to witness these two pioneers of rock & roll brought upon a rare treat that reinforced our appreciation for musicians from that classic area and illustrated how powerful their impact has been and will be on current and future musicians. Although their music careers have had twists and turns – make no mistake – the Zombies are here to stay. As one of many 60’s and 70’s rock bands re-defining their legendary status through new albums and sold-out tours around the world, the Zombies have come off the bench and into the starting line-up.

Their new album is filled with vividly expressive lyrics, powerful instrumental talent, and a puff of smoky vocals that's rare to find these days. The Zombies showcased those talents effortlessly at Rough Trade, and most importantly, they did so by collectively bringing back the classic hits that continue to draw appreciation from fans and musicians across the world. They have continued their musical journey that aims to break barriers and surpass preconceived notions of rock: we couldn't be any more thrilled to hop along for the ride.

Like. Share. Re-post.

Be sure to follow, like and listen to the Zombies today!

 

iTunes | Spotify  | Amazon

Follow them here on:

Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube