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!

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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.

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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.

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 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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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

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

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

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’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

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

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

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

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American Pinup Leads a Stellar Indie-Line up at The Fox and King's Annual Farewell Summer Show

American Pinup at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Last weekend, we bid the summer season adieu with our 5th annual Farewell Summer Show at New York’s famed Arlene’s Grocery. Our closing party featured a stellar line up of indie-rock trios that crushed the stage with a gut-pounding performance and electrifying sounds that pulverized its way across the Lower East Side.

In front of a hands-on crowd that Saturday evening, Mala Vista, FREAKABOUT and American Pinup reverberated the sounds of 70’s punk rock, early 90’s grunge and alternative heartland rock that helped forged the halls of the famed LES venue twenty years ago. Each band displayed a roaring, smoky and exhilarating live performance that blew us all away. Coupled with detailed lyrical compositions and complex musical arrangements, these emerging acts set blaze to a storm of sonic energy, gripping vocals and static chords that set new standards for how our Farewell Summer Shows should be.

Myke Miranda on the strings and vocals at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Mala Vista kicked off the show with a late 70’s punk rock statement synonymous of the days when The Ramones and the Clash blew the lights out on every corner of The Bowery and East London. Their presence on stage was commanding, economical and innovative. The dominance of their grungy-esque sound, elevated vocals and driving guitar licks portrayed a level of confidence and a no-nonsense attitude that forced us to listen and pay attention.

On Mala Vista’s punk anthem “Bare Bones,” lead vocalist/guitarist, Myke Miranda, portrayed a politically charge vocal that catapulted an array of expressive notes and an oppressing reach. Bassist, Manuel Labour, and drummer, Jordache®, set off an explosive supporting role with exceptionally lean beats and a vicious baseline. With accompanying performances of several covers, this band was an amazing opening act that helped prepare the crowd for the rest of our closing party.

Jordache on the bass at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Another impressive act that evening, FREAKABOUT, came all the way out from Omaha, Nebraska to kick off their national tour with headliner, American Pinup. Both bands had their anchor dates the night before and were sharing the bill together for a second-straight time in New York. The four-piece act, embedded in classic rock’ n’ roll, steer-headed a dynamic performance with an abundance of energizing sounds, vicious guitar riffs and conquering beats.

Cortney Kirby’s powerful, yet sensual voice, embraced our ears with powerful lyrical compositions that sent our minds floating in a mist of rock and pop melodies. Her roaring vocals portrayed a gentle touch that took command of the audience and guided them through a heart-pounding experience through a journey of how rock ‘n’ roll music is supposed to be.

Aaron Galvin ripping the guitar. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Cortney Kirby on vocals at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Aaron Galvin’s kick-ass guitar play blew the amplifiers and speakers away with a thunderous assault on the strings, echoing the sounds of heavy blues and hardline rock. Along with drummer, Ian Francis, and bassists, Ben Frerichs, FREAKABOUT put on a masterful live performance that elicit a unique heartland and hard rock sound that had audiences bobbing their head and moving their hips.

American Pinup headlined our Farewell Summer Show with a galvanizing performance that swept Arlene’s off their feet. The three-piece alternative-punk and pop-rock band was sonorously provocative with fist-clenching vocals, leathery beats and an unyielding guitar play that pressured us to breakdown the walls.

Lauren West at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

With thoughtful music arrangements and seasoned lyrical depth, front crooner, Lauren West, provided a boisterous indie-rock howl that was both versatile and gripping. West’s savvy and rapturous melodies generated edgy hooks and a rousing punk-rock attitude that twisted itself around the band’s music and lyrical structure. John Casale’s vicious drum set rendered a stringent assault of hard-iron beats and impetuous grooves that drew from the band’s expressive punk-rock persona and pop rock explosiveness. Along with a juicy baseline by bassist, Tim Robbins, American Pinup showed us why they're one of the most robust and versatile live acts in the indie-scene today.

John Casale on drums and Tim Robbins on bass at Arlene's Grocery. Photo courtesy of Kevin Vallejos.

Each year we try and pull off something magical and different for you – the fans – for our annual Farewell Summer. Whether it’s extra merch, more bands on the bill or deals at the door, we’ve always put our friends, audiences and artists first: this year was no different. This was truly something special. With three insanely impressive bands, a great crowd and good vibes, this year’s Farewell Summer Show blew the doors off. With a gnarly pro-expressive attitude, these indie live acts provided gut-busting rhythms, savvy grooves, beefy vocals and flaying electric riffs that came out and conquered us all, allowing us to fall victim to the music that we heart the most: rock’ n’ roll. We couldn’t thank you all enough for being with us for the taking.

Listen, like and follow Mala Vista, FREAKABOUT and American Pinup below. Also check out our show recap on our You Tube page below.

Show Recap

Mala Vista

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FREAKABOUT

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American Pinup

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