Category: Music Reviews

Posted on: October 2, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Tony Levitas Black Sky Blanket CD Review

Take This Love is a track that builds upon the work of seventies rockers and provides listeners in the current era with something rich and meaty to bite into. The overall production of the track is solid enough to let the vocals, drums, and guitars ample opportunity to shine alone and as a cohesive unit. The cogent sound of the tracks on Black Sky Blanket really speak to Levitas’ ability…

Posted on: October 2, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

WydeFrame Dumb Fresh Single Review

WydeFrame’s flow this time out builds upon the works of Fabolous and Big Boi, with hints of Jadakiss that come forth before the song ceases. The production keeps the energy of the track high, while the fat bass beats ensure that the cut will be blasted in cars throughout the autumn. There is enough variety in the subject material and overall flow that the track can stand up to repeat…

Posted on: October 2, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Deja Mae Wicked Games Single Review

This EDM and trap – inspired cover of The Weeknd’s single is given a new lease on life. The heavy, dark sound of the instrumentation provides a solid backbone upon which Deja Mae can build. The production allows the vocal and instrumental efforts ample opportunity to shine, all while creating a cohesive and comprehensive feeling to the cut. The echoing, haunting vocals of Deja Mae will stick with listeners long after…

Posted on: October 1, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Jayne Ava March Single Review

There is a skillful blend of pop, EDM, and R&B styles that will appease fans of Britney Spears, Ke$ha, and Lana Del Ray. March is a track that will keep listeners on the dance floor, with a backing back that links together rap, dubstep, and European dance styles. There are a number of twists and turns that are presented during this track, making for a much more fulfilling experience than…

Posted on: October 1, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

The Royal Guard – I Wanna Know / Why Can’t We Be Together

The high-energy attack of The Royal Guard link together power-pop, punk, rock, and emotive styles into an easy to digest while still intricate effort. The disparate elements here – the supersonic vocals, splashy drums, and orchestral compositions – unite to create a track that will stick in the minds and hearts of listeners long after it concludes. The unique sound created by The Royal Guard during I Wanna Know gives…

Posted on: September 29, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Alvin Harrison, The 99 EP Review

Rough Times in America is a soulful track that resounds loudly even after the track ceases. A smart production allows each constituent element of the track to shine, meaning that the bass, drums, and multiple vocals are provided with ample opportunity to shine separately and as a contributing element. The track is a call to action, building off of the work of artists like Phil Ochs and USA For Africa.…

Posted on: September 26, 2014 Posted by: John B. Moore Comments: 0

Lunchbox – Lunchbox Loves You (Vinyl)

After more than a decade off, the Berkley power pop band Lunchbox is back with what is easily their finest collection of songs. A little goofy, but immensely fun, Lunchbox Loves You is 10 indie pop songs brimming with jangly guitars, sing-along choruses and plenty of handclaps.

Posted on: September 22, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

The Voices of Terror Rock-Rap Dynasty CD Review

I Am the Beast is a track that blends together catchy electronic, rap, and rock styles into something that is an expansion of P.O.D. and Eminem. The sheer quality of the musical arrangements during Rock-Rap Dynasty is hat sets off the title from other titles released this year. Lethal Weapon puts the instrumental side of things to the fore, creating a very quick tempo that keeps listeners on the edges…

Posted on: September 21, 2014 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

WydeFrame So Ashamed Single Review

The production of So Ashamed creates a vibrant backdrop for WydeFrame’s unique rap style, which touches upon hints of Andre 3000, 50 Cent, Killer Mike, and Young Buck. The high energy flow present during this track keeps things interesting from beginning to the end. The overall recording of the track is perfect, allowing for the lyrics to be easily digested. The track blends the gritty post-gangster rap of the early…