Durieux - "Doesn't Matter" (Live Session)

You should be listening to Durieux.

Check out the Bronx-based singer-songwriter’s gushy and charming live performance to his song, “Doesn’t Matter,” shot and edited by our friend Kevin Vallejos.

Add “Doesn’t Matter,” along with “Are We?” and “Growing pains” to your playlist today and catch Brian Durieux perform live at a venue near you.

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Directed and Edited by Kevin Vallejos @Kevin.Scenery Drums- John Lopez Bass- Seth Happy Nicholson Guitar- Gannon Ferrell Acoustic Guitar/Vocals- Durieux Follow @Durieuxmusic

Durieux

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#WomenInRock: A Music Series Kick-off at The Bowery Electric

Danielle Minch at guitar during our #WomenInRock show. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

We launched our very first “Women In Rock” show at The Bowery Electric’s last week, featuring some of the rising female-led bands that are re-defining today’s independent music throughout New York City.

Singer-songwriter/guitarist, Nessa Dove, kicked off our show with a vibrant performance that filled the Map Room with airy licks, sonic rips and electrifying strings, drawing audiences towards the dimmed-light Map Room on that dreary Tuesday night. The Queens-based musician was inviting, gripping and energized with heavy doses of rhythm and soul. Performing songs from her latest EP “Here We Go,” as well as upcoming music releasing later this summer, Nessa portrayed a mean guitar play, catchy vocals and indulging arrangements that blended the genres of alternative, blues and pop for us to experience beautifully on stage.  Her performances to the smooth riding titled EP song “Here We Go” and the rock heartbreaking tune “Last Cigarette” left us captivated and mesmerized by Nessa’s firm, yet delicate strings, soft melodies and easy-riding rifts. 

Nessa Dove on vocals at our #WomenInRock show. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Multi-instrumentalist, Katie Zaccardi, was the second act on our bill that provided us with a gentle performance bounding the elements of indie-folk, country and alternative beautifully together. Her crooning vocals and compelling lyrics expressed vibrantly on stage, as she played alongside her four-piece band performing some of her new songs and selected covers throughout the set. Equipped with a unique alternative sound that mirror the pillars of Americana and alternative-folk music, Zaccardi’s musicianship and songwriting ability were illustrated profoundly through her songs “Cave” and “Crazy.” Both compositions were a testament to Zaccardi’s artistry, dynamic lyrics and quilted arrangements stuffed with pop and rock mixtures.

Katie Zaccardi crooning the night away at our #WomenInRock show. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Talullah Ruff and Behind The Façade closed out the night with a dazzling rock and singer-songwriter finale that wowed the Bowery Electric audience to their feet. Talullah’s vocals and play on the keys was elegant, mesmerizing and hauntingly glowing. Her detailed compositions and heartfelt songwriting hushed the Map Room crowd, as she performed graciously with an uncanny approach that was gentle, collected and refine. As confident as she was anxious, Talullah expressed her artistry with a measured sense of love and reflection through a unique piano and bluesy alternative sound. Her performances to “Hungry” and “In Love With My Paper Skin” flowed majestically throughout the quiet space with powerful harmonies and beautiful keys.

Talullah Ruff on keys at our #WomenInRock show. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Female-fronted alternative-pop and rock band, Behind The Façade, headlined our “Women in Rock” show with an all-star jam fest that had Map Room audiences on their feet, bobbing their heads and pumping their fists. Straight from the inner boroughs of New York City, Behind The Façade provided an awesome show-stopping experience that filled the Bowery Electric with ear-shattering amps, ferocious rifts and explosive beats.  The hardcore punk-pop band howled loudly through our ears offering a rush of crushing attitude, absolute command and daring confidence.

The band’s lead vocalist/guitarist, Danielle Minch, put on a superb performance for us with clean and rejuvenating vocals, entrenched guitar play and thriving lyrical ability. Danielle maybe small in stature, but it’s her demeanor and musicianship that maintained a grand and invigorating presence on stage that magnified the band’s dominating poise and tenacity. Guitarist Louie Baerga and bassist Nick Quiles provided the backbone to the band’s wild and airy presence. Baerga’s energized performance on strings and reverberating vocals were exhilarating: a perfect one-two punch and pairing to Danielle’s dynamic presence. Along with drummer Christian Estrella, the band kept jamming throughout the set – never letting the energy suck out of the room. We all were trapped to BTF’s realm of punk-infused pop and heavy-hitting rock music.

Danielle Minch and Louie Baerga on vocals. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Nick Quilles on bass and Danielle Minch at the mic. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Christian Estrella on drums at our #WomenInRock show. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

The band’s performances to “Good Intentions,” “Hypochondriac” and “Things to Believe In” was a roaring amplified diary that put us in the middle of a late afternoon Vans Warped Tour set or an evening jam fest from the old Bronx Underground days. The sonic echo that pulverized the Map Room speakers was tantalizing and made us hungry for more, as we lost ourselves to the adrenaline and electrified velocity of alternative-punk music.

With the lasting presence of female-fronted bands in the independent music scene, female artists have always adopted a unique approach with how they have merged their various genre and songwriting skills. Whether it’s through early 90’s punk, southern blues, powerful ballads or mid-60’s activism, these female icons have been able to adopt a holistic sound that has re-defined the way we view and listen to music both then and now in today’s evolving society.

The artists who performed during our #WomenInRock show exemplify not only poise, confidence and charisma, but more importantly that quality musicianship goes beyond sex, gender, ethnicity or background. Their unconventional sound spans across genres to develop a hearty following of fans that fall in love with the artist and their music just the same. With future records, bigger shows and more touring to come, it's safe to say that these musicians will undoubtedly hold their spot in the New York City music scene with much more to come. 

Behind The Façade | Facebook | Twitter

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Nessa Dove | Facebook | Twitter

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Katie Zaccardi | Facebook | Twitter

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Raul Midón Releases New Single “Pedal to The Metal” ahead of his upcoming album “Bad Ass and Blind”

Photo courtesy of Blair Allen

Raul Midón unveiled his latest heel-clapping single last week, “Petal to The Medal,” as the multi-instrumentalist singer-guitarist will release his highly anticipated ninth studio album “Bad Ass and Blind” this Friday.

Midón’s latest tune is a true testament to the percussionist’s jazz-inspired soul that has placed him among some of the finest musicians in the genre. This get-on-your-feet jam is a philosophical expression that glides into Midón’s musical success, confidence and commitment that drives his passion for music and instrumentation.

Visually challenged at birth, Raul Midón’s artistry allowed him to shatter barriers throughout the industry, playing along side the likes of Jose Feliciano, George Benson, Shakira, Stevie Wonder and the late great Al Jarreau. His influences in the Latin, jazz and soul genres, exemplify Midón’s willingness to adopt, evolve and sustain his sound that has spanned over an illustrious thirty-year career.

Raul Midón’s mastery of the guitar, percussion and complex vocals stem from his extensive musical experience and influences. His elusive style on the strings enables Midón to create a jazz-infused flamenco that allows his audience to embrace his harmonic melodies and tender voice. Midón’s impressive vocal-horn technique creates a Miles Davis-esque sound that brings roaring 20’s bebop sound straight from his lips.

Along with his free two-hand play that makes him synonymous with a “one-man orchestra,” Raul Midón’s music elicits the freedom, enthusiasm and charisma that aptly provide strong instrumentation with complex rhythms and keen lyricism.

We truly recommend experiencing this brilliant artist and his music, as Midón’s impeccable work is a constant reminder as to why this genre remains a must-listen for years to come.  Make sure to pre-order his album today!

Guitar Center Clinic:

Raul Midón will be kicking off the New York leg of his “Bad Ass and Blind” tour with his Guitar Clinic at Guitar Center Time Square on Thursday, March 23rd at 6:00pm. Fans will be able to witness the singer-songwriter perform live, host a Q&A for fans, and offer a meet & greet. The show is opened to the public. Please arrive early, as space is limited.

Album Release Show:

Also, come out this Friday, March 24th, to watch Midón perform live at the Highline Ballroom for his album release show. Doors will open at 6:00pm and show starts at 8:00pm.  RSVP today!

Follow, stream and listen to Raul Midón on his social below!

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Raye Zaragoza Returns to NYC with a Gorgeous Performance at The Bitter End

Raye Zaragoza live at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Raye Zaragoza elicits the very best that songwriting and music have to offer. Her willingness to capture peoples hearts and strengthen their spirits illustrates why music can be so prolific in times where our humanity is most tested. With today’s political strife at the forefront, Raye's music has been able to instill passion, inspiration and awareness through the melodies and lyrics of her songs.

Raye’s performance at The Bitter End last Tuesday exemplifies her growth and versatility as an artist with impeccable vocals, empowering instrumentation and gorgeous storytelling that had us astonished.

Sitting back and drinking a few craft brews at our disposal, we witnessed Raye put on a sentimental show filled with songs from her first EP and upcoming singles off her new record, as she shined gracefully in front of her three-piece band she met at The Bitter End several years back.

Raye Zaragoza soothing the crowd at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Raye’s performance of “Heroine” was breathtaking – a pivotal display of lyricism with superb composition – truly impressive. Her performances to “Mulholland Drive” and “Driving to Standing Rock” were also a delight, as Raye wonderfully shined with her picturesque storytelling and harmonies garnished with tranquility.

Her bold activism and unapologetic reminders grabbed us firmly by the ear, listening and observing to the delicacies of her music. Her guitar play was angelic, riveting and inviting – a perfect companion to a masterful singer-songwriter filled with compassion and devote advocacy.

Raye Zaragoza on the strings at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

A prolific writer and poet, Raye’s focus on awareness and sustainability was prevalent in her 2016 activist anthem of the year, “In The River,” which was written and recorded as a protest song in dedication to the great Standing Rock Sioux against The Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) near the Standing Rock Indian Reservation.

Raye Zaragoza at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Raye’s performance of her harmonious record spoke volumes to us – a gentle acoustic hymn that kindly reminded us about sustaining our environment, hope and protecting what we love. The somber and emotional feel in the room hushed the crowd, as all were drawn to Raye’s devoted passions and embracive sounds echoing timelessly within our hearts.

Raye Zaragoza’s music has transcended the indie-folk music scene through her captivating storytelling, lyrical elegance and distinct instrumentation. A singer-songwriter that has pushed the boundaries of her work, Raye’s success as an independent music artist has propelled a grass roots following that seeks to uphold those beautifully poetic compositions.

Raye’s voice truly has the impact to change lives and we’re so grateful to be apart of that journey.

Raye Zaragoza on stage at The Bitter End. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Fans can pre-order new album on Pledge Music today by clicking on the link below. Fans will receive special perks and fan exclusives by pledging the album, as well as an “access pass” to exclusive videos and photos from the recording process!

Pledge Music

Make sure to follow, share and listen to Raye's music on her social below!

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All Year Summer & Duendita Put On A Stellar Performance at Jack Douglas Music Hall

Chris Toro and Miguel "MG" Gallardo (All Year Summer) on stage at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

In our first major show of 2017, we witnessed two captivating performances by All Year Summer and Duendita, as they graced the stage at the Jack Douglas Music Hall for its first official music showcase.

Located inside the renowned Institute of Audio Research, both artists performed songs from their previous EPs and upcoming releases in front of an intimate crowd that lasted through the night. Filled with expressive vibes, soulful melodies and astounding entertainment, we were blown away by the incredible talent and genre-binding complexities that these artists displayed and whose music kept us standing at our feet – eager for more.

Miguel "MG" Gallardo quick with the flows at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Bronx natives, Chris Toro and Miguel “MG” Gallardo, kicked off the show with a dynamically galactic and pulverizing set, delivering chill sounds, explosively driven beats and experimental lyricism that rushed through are bodies and cuddling our ears.

Their performances to “One Hell of A Ride” and “Lemonade” were synonymous with the room: gently steamy and soulfully warm. MG’s smooth vibes and Toro’s decadent flows complemented each other’s styles perfectly as they rapped over relaxing keys and soothing compositions – infusing their bars seamlessly with command.

Chris Toro vibe 'n out at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Toro provided us with a treat of his performance to, “Watch Your Flowers,” as the songs cooling essence quieted the room as we bobbed our heads to its soul-soothing 90’s boom-bop sound. The dynamic duo also performed their new song, “Light The Tree,” which provided audiences a breezy baseline track, filled with a soft hook and pulse-cleansing rhythms that had us lighting up and cruising throughout the night.

Along with an unreleased track filled with ferocity and fired-up flows, All Year Summer truly provided the link between fantasy and reality – excelling through the poetic complexities of their sound at the Jack Douglas Music Hall. Their lyricism and thoughtful metaphors offered us a refreshing taste of unconventional hip-hop that urges audiences to challenge the genre to continuously seek creativity.

All Year Summer at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Duendita headlined the Jack Douglas showcase with a timeless and captivating performance that stunned audiences in their seats. Her gorgeous vocals and perpetual depth masterfully resonated across the venue, as the singer-songwriter performed songs from her upcoming EP – illustrating her tenacious versatility as an upcoming artist.

duendita gracing the stage at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

The surrealist singer-songwriter lost in the music at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Also performing songs from her previous EP’s, Duendita offered us a surreal treat that deliciously contained euphoric rhythms, soothing keys and surmountable flows that whispered through our ears and into our souls. Kicking off her set with the stage lights off, the soul surrealist kept us guessing throughout the performance, as she provided us with aesthetically pleasing compositions consisting of gentle keys, empowering beats and euphorically complex productions.

Her vocals to “Dream of Me” and “Open Wide” were seductive, tantalizing and soulfully dreamy. Her performance allowed us to give way and provide our attention to her angelic notes blessed with divine serenity, meticulous lyricism and with an unwavering stage presence.

duendita looking on at the crowd at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

All Year Summer and Duendita enumerated two impressive and enjoyable performances for us to witness last month at the Jack Douglas Music Hall. Immersed in the urban soul and hip-hop genres, All Year Summer and Duendita have discovered excitingly new approaches to how contemporary indie-music should be. 

Both artists exhibit a strong dedication to sound, meaningful lyrics and complex arrangements that exemplify the quality of music coming from this independent New York scene. 

duendita singing majestically at Jack Douglas Music Hall. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Make sure to follow, share and listen to All Year Summer and Duendita on their social for future shows, music and tours! Feel free to comment, share and follow The Fox and King, Inc. on our social below.

All Year Summer

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Raye Zaragoza Offers a Bluesy New York Farewell at Rockwood Music Hall

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood music Hall. Photo courtesy of Larufoto

Saturday nights in the Lower East Side are typically crawling with artists and their guitar cases rushing to their next gig and filled with partially belligerent fans scattering about to find the nearest music venue. But last night, Rockwood Music Hall housed a one-of-a-kind bluesy, dreamy, folky, and all together beautiful showcase from Raye Zaragoza; your new favorite singer-songwriter.

When Raye takes the stage she resembles the presence of a revolving door. It’s as if every time she opened her mouth she would deliver a seemingly flawless note with more and more people rushing in from the streets.

Raye is a New York based singer songwriter who has been training in live music for years. Unsurprisingly, given her natural talents, it gives me no pause to learn that her father is Broadway actor Gregory Zaragoza, who had her started at a young age. Her sound is seasoned, technical, classic, and effortless at the same time.

Raye Zaragoza live at Rockwood Music Hall

Raye has been a part of the music scene here in New York for years, frequenting venues like Arlene’s Grocery, The Knitting Factory, and Bizarre Bar in Brooklyn. Back in 2013 she was even a featured artist at LA Skins Music Fest, which must have inspired her in someway, seeing as Raye is now relocating to Los Angeles.

“All my songs are about New York, I don’t know what I’m doing going to LA. What am I going to write about?” Raye jokes in between songs. 

The room was so involved in her, she had them completely captivated. Through the crowded audience, I couldn’t tell if it was her beautiful lyrics about love, heartbreak, and New York City, or if it was her undeniable beauty and genuine stage presence, that had everyone so enchanted. But regardless, the room was silent as she sung, and roaring with applause when she finished.

Christian Nourijanian (left), Raye Zaragoza (center) and Tim Bassom (right)

Raye’s sound is reminiscent of Norah Jones, Billie Holliday, and Eva Cassidy. She’s a strong vocalist, but perhaps even a stronger writer. Her arrangements are simple, clean and highlight the lyrics of her songs. All of which are relatable without being boring, and beautiful without being over the top. Her EP, Heroine (available on SoundCloud and Spotify), is a beautiful collection of songs that represent her vibe perfectly: a classic and moving artist.

Though this is her farewell show in New York, to end things Raye just sweetly says, “thank you,” as she strums the last note on her guitar- because this is not goodbye - you'll being seeing amazing things from this girl from here on out.

Stay up to date with her music and live stream the Heroine EP below:

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Kapali Long woos crowds on the East Coast leg of “The Different Tour 2016”

With nothing but two guitars and a backpack, Hawaii’s very own Kapali Long, met with The Fox and King in February to kick off the east coast leg of “The Different Tour 2016” in an effort to promote his brand new EP, “The Different.”

Stemming from a beautiful family heritage of Hawaiian folk musicians, Kapali Long started playing acoustic singer-songwriter music at a young age. The aspiring guitarist began playing music at the age of three where he first learned to play piano. He would eventually go on to master the guitar and adopt an early 90’s alternative style that combined captivating lyrics, with vivid storytelling and features derived from traditional Hawaiian folk music.

“I’ve always played acoustic singer-songwriter music ever since I was 14, playing four-hour gigs in coffee shops - covering Van Morrison; to Led Zeppelin; to Brand New; to Taking Back Sunday – it was everything,” Kapali says. “Now I’m back again, 10 years later, playing acoustic singer-songwriter, bluesy, folk, rock-stuff with Hawaiian influences.”

Kapali Long arrived from Los Angeles to New York after performing at the Nissan® Grand Plaza stage at NAMM 2016 (National Association of Music Merchants) where he performed for 20,000 people on the KIA Soul Main Stage. In his first New York performance in over two years, the multi-instrumentalist performed at the lower east side’s very own, Pianos, sharing the bill with other talented emerging artists. Kapali rocked the two-story venue on the first stop of “The Different Tour 2016,” crooning the intimate crowd with a commanding, yet mellow; vocal that illustrated the sounds of blues and hints of Kapali’s traditional folk influences. He transitioned his raw and invigorating performance to another equally legendary venue, Arlene’s Grocery, wooing a hushed crowd on a frigid Valentines Day weekend.

Kapali Long performing at Pianos

During the second week on the NYC tour, Kapali took part in an open mic session at Black Rose, playing along side fantastic local musicians and performers. He also performed at the industry renowned Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 1, in front of a full room of fans. His passion for music and sensuous voice lit up the Lower East Side, drawing the audience to a tentative and tranquil state. You could feel the joy and soul of Kapali’s performance radiating off the stage.

“It’s cool to do that at least one time in your set, but for every song the crowd pretty much stopped,” Kapali says. “Those people were there for the lyrics. Getting to share my stories is what fuels me to keep going and keep doing this.”

Kapali plays Rockwood Music Hall

Alongside The Fox and King and production company, For The Xperience, Kapali filmed his first featured music video for the track, “Between Then & Now." Coincidentally, it's a song Kapali wrote just two years earlier when he first came to New York. One day removed from his stellar performance at Rockwood, the TFAK and For the Xperience crew drove Kapali out to the Bushwick and Williamsburg sections of Brooklyn. This grassroots production featured Kapali on location, capturing shots of concrete murals, art, historical landmarks, open parks and the Manhattan skyline itself.

Kapali also interviewed with TFAK’s very own, Kevin Vallejos, to provide fans and audiences a clean and more insightful look at where he's been, where the journey as a musician has taking him, what’s next for his music and what to expect from his upcoming album. The interview and video will be featured in a soon-to-be-released mini-documentary about Kapali’s east coast tour in New York.

Behind the scenes with Kapali for his first official music video "Between Then and Now"

Kapali Long’s time in New York has illustrated how far he has come from being the young talented guitarist that soothed coffee enthusiasts in his native hometown of Honolulu. In what has taken him years to forge, Kapali Long is a versatile force in the independent acoustic music scene that has adopted the ability to persuade us with a sense of empathy and compassion. Through the kindness of his music, Kapali continues to share his harmonious lyrics through the spirit of aloha and persuade his fans to cherish how music can bring people together.

“What I’m trying to do is spread the awareness of aloha and just passing it forward,” Kapali revealed. “That’s just the message that I’ve embodied in my music: pass that love forward.”