Florida Music Scene - RadioIndy: February 2009

Monday, February 16, 2009

"Destiny" by Al Sofia (Pop Artist from Illinois(IL))

Talented vocalist Al Sofia shares his love for pop/easy listening music with his latest disc, "Destiny." With hints of Bobby Darin and Michael Buble, Sofia delivers an exceptional disc of both originals and cover songs. The title track "Destiny" shows his knack for creative songwriting and has that Philadelphia soul vibe to it. Although the album does feature some great original work, it is Sofia's covers that really shine through. Taking someone else's music and making it your own is never easy, but Sofia does it with ease on songs such as "You Raise Me Up" (popularized by Josh Groban). There are also some jazzy takes on well known Broadway numbers like "Seasons of Love" from the musical Rent and "It's Possible" from Suessical. "Destiny" is a great album for any fan of Hall & Oates or Michael Buble and is well worth listening to.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy Reviewer Team
Check out Al SofiaE's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present Errol and Kaye Leslie with a GrIndie Award for the CD "New Life"

"New Life" is the third gospel reggae release from impressive writer/composer duo Errol and Kaye Leslie. Originally from Jamaica, but currently taking up residence in Florida, Errol and Kaye smoothly incorporate Caribbean reggae rhythms into their gospel songs for their music ministries. The result is twelve upbeat and rhythmic tracks about the importance of Jesus in our day to day existence and the necessity of putting one's life into God's hands. Errol and Kaye, combined with the backing vocalists, create some great vocal dynamics on this album. Errol has a great booming bass reggae vocal, and Kaye a strong alto more lenient to the gospel end of the sound. "New Life" features great production quality. It sounds very clean and makes you feel as though you are in a Caribbean tent revival. "Caribbean Gospel Medley" defines Caribbean gospel perfectly with an attention-getting beat, great vocal layering, and lyrics about redemption. The title track, "New Life," is an Elvis-esque southern gospel track with great booming doo-wop vocals from Errol, more great vocal layering, and a classic arrangement. Overall, "New Life" is an accomplishment, as it combines the fun, upbeat sounds of the Caribbean with serious and heartfelt gospel lyrics. If the fusion of reggae with gospel appeals to you, I strongly recommend that you check out Errol and Kaye Leslie.

-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Review Team
Check out Errol and Kaye Leslie's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Flavio y Sus Complices with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Mi Nueva Razon"

"Mi Nueva Razon" is a lively traditional Mexican album brought to you by Flavio y Sus Complices. Right off the bat you will experience an energetic calmness from this album courtesy of Flavio's songbird voice and the delicate precision of the musicians behind him. This is a feel good album for sure, so expect smiles all around when you spin this one. The song writing and arranging are definitely a standout on this album. There are really nice melodies and harmonies in the vocals. The instrumentation is very quirky and plays off the lyrical line well. The album sounds great and focuses on the matter of highlighting the entertainment factor in the music. Highlights include the opener "Tu Siempre Seras," which has a nice intro, and when the vocals kick in, you know right away that your journey through a fun album has begun. The title track "Mi Nueva Razon" is another good one, with a nice melody and a sensitive side. If you enjoy traditional Mexican music highlighted by a wonderful vocalist, you will not be disappointed with Flavio and his gang.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Flavio y Sus Complices's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present C Currie with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Live Again"

"Live Again" is the debut hip-hop/R&B album from up-and-coming producer and arranger Charles W Currie, or C Currie. The album is primarily focused on displaying C Currie's talents as a creative artist. The product is an album filled with countless hooks, tricky arrangements, and extreme groove-ability. "Live Again" mixes some of the classic sounds we have loved over the years with new and innovative sounds that give the entire album a fresh, original sound. The production value of the album is good, with good representation of classic analog instruments as they relate to modern sounds. Highlights include "My Boo Baby," which incorporates a huge beat, some cool vocal effects, and endless layers to the arrangement. "Mix" is extremely catchy and rolls along great as it introduces you to a variety sounds on the musical journey it creates. "Your Love (Makes Me)" wraps things up nicely with a classic '80s vocal effect to go with its classic '80s 808 beat. If you enjoy hip-hop with a groove mixed with classic and modern innovation, you should surely add C Currie to your collection.

-William
Check out C Currie's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Charlie Miller with a GrIndie Award for the CD "The Prayer"

"The Prayer" is a contemporary Christian solo piano album featuring heartfelt compositions of praise arranged and performed by Charlie Miller. Charlie is a well-accredited musical instructor and accompanist who can be linked to big names in the religious music world. This album goes beyond the experience of beautiful piano lines and progressions as the tracks seem to exude an uplifting and heartwarming energy. The sound quality is impeccable, as you will experience every auditory detail and feel as though it's just you, Charlie, and a piano. Highlights include the opener, "Tell Me The Stories Of Jesus," which begins with a delicate line and evolves into a beautiful and inspiring progression. "He's Been Faithful" features some beautiful tinkling of the ivories and weighs back and forth between delicateness and power. "Pie Jesu" takes the mood in a slightly different direction and is equally as beautiful in its intent of holy thankfulness. With "The Prayer," Charlie Miller has created an inspiring instrumental praise and worship album great for those looking for a musical medium for spirituality. If you enjoy beautiful jazz-rooted spiritual piano compositions, this album will be a great addition.

-William
Check out Charlie Miller's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Saturday, February 7, 2009

"A Decade ov Rejoycemusic" by I-Jaro along with Rejoyce (Reggae Artist from The Netherlands)

Singer/songwriter I-Jaro, along with Rejoyce, has released his first published album titled "A Decade ov Rejoycemusic," featuring roots reggae style music. The texture of this album is soft yet full of energy, while the instruments compliment the rich vocals. Lyrics are inspiring and deliver an uplifting message. "Share yuh Love" has subtle strings bringing the thoughtful lyrics to a well-blended mix. "Can We Fly" has syncopated rhythms nuanced by the graceful guitar fills and soft strings. Sit back and relax to the reggae beats as it takes your mind to an unwinding atmosphere. If you're in the mood for ideal relaxing and soothing reggae music you will want to take a listen to "A Decade ov Rejoycemusic."

-Diane and The RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Rejoyce's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Thursday, February 5, 2009

"Latin Evolution" by Ephrem J (Latin Artist from Florida(FL))

Ephrem J's latest release "Latin Evolution" is a terrific mix of adult contemporary and Latin flare. Although the disc is sung in Spanish, any listener will want to hear Ephrem's crisp and clean vocals and the strong and solid rhythm section. The CD opens up to an upbeat start with the lounge grooves of the song "Tequero." Ephrem also gives the listener a few options as he displays two wonderful versions of his song "Ella." One version is a saucy salsa mix while the other has a mid-90's light rock tone to it. "Latin Evolution" is a great addition to any fans of Latin music and is well worth hearing.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy Reviewer Team
Check out Ephrem J 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Wednesday, February 4, 2009

"Many Years" by Tom Richey (Rock Artist from Tennessee(TN))

Tom Richey's "Many Years" is a neat throwback to classic rock bands of the '60's and '70's. The disc is a collection of Richey's musical writings and claims it to be his best work over a 14 year span of songwriting. "In Here" a finely tuned acoustic track ignites the sounds of early Grateful Dead and shows off Richey's guitar skills. His Pink Floyd influence shows its face in "Many Years" with a classic synth string section and typical Roger Waters style verses. Richey's compilation of his "greatest hits" is a well chosen collection of stripped down classic rock anthems.

-Shaun and the Radioindy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Tom Richey's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"At the Gates of Graceland" by Mark Shelton (Spiritual Artist from Vermont(VT))

Elvis is reborn with the sounds of Mark Shelton's newest disc, "At the Gates of Graceland." Shelton fuses the vocal qualities of "The King" and Perry Como together to create his own unforgettable sound. The most obvious tribute to Elvis comes through in the track "I Believe" which delivers his vocal expressions with pure eloquence. Anyone familiar with the classic sounds of The Inkspots will love the song "Crying in the Chapel" with lovely piano fills and harmonies sweetly balancing with Shelton's vocals. Shelton has revealed shades of memorable vocals which pays tribute to what was probably Elvis' most endearing work, his spiritual songs. Any fan of spiritual and uplifting music relating to this phase in Presley's career will thoroughly enjoy listening to "At the Gates of Graceland."

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy Reviewer Team
Check out Mark Shelton's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Monday, February 2, 2009

"From the Poor Side of Town" by Johnny "T" Thompson (R&B Artist from Florida(FL))

International soul and rhythm & blues recording artist Johnny "T" Thompson performs a superb collection of singles on his latest album "From the Poor Side of Town." This album is welded together with artistic arrangements which capture the feel of rhythmic blues. Thompson's vocals flow gently into your ears with his mesmerizing and soulful tone. His vocals are also complemented with an outstanding group of musicians. Take note of the big brass sounds as heard on "Pull Your Chain of Love" or "Mind Your Business" which really adds flavor to this style of music. "Giving Up on Love" is a wonderful ballad featuring electric piano, subtle guitar, and sweet harmonies. Revealing soulful hues of rhythm & blues, "From the Poor Side of Town" is an album well worth hearing, especially if you're a fan of Otis Clay or Willie Clayton.

-Diane and The RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Johnny "T" Thompson's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Fwd: "Dust In Your Hands" by Tom Hood and The Trailmen (Rock Artist from Long Island, New York(NY))

If you have been craving some country rooted rock these days then "Dust In Your Hands" by Tom Hood and The Trailmen might be right up your alley. Their lineup of songs sets them apart from most rock acts with the addition of fiddle and mandolin both of which are well blended in the mix. Hood takes on the song "Caught In The Rain" with a very inspired Johnny Cash influence making for a great crossover tune. One of the standout tracks is "Back To The Baja" which features some nice lead guitar work and a bouncy groove that could be heard on any Jimmy Buffett or Traveling Wilburys album. Don't expect any classic style cowboy tunes on "Dust In Your Hands" because it's sheer rock/country entertainment.

-Shaun and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Tom Hood and The Trailmen's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"My Life" by Lee Michaels (Pop Artist from Florida(FL))

Pianist Lee Michaels has recently released his debut CD "My Life" which blends the soul of Motown with a touch of classic rock. Hailing from New Jersey you would expect to hear something in the manner of rockers Bruce Springsteen or Bon Jovi. However, Michaels serenades the listener with songs like "The Rain Will See Us Through" which is extremely influenced by the early sounds of Elton John. Michaels belts out some R&B with the song "Believe" with a nice balance between the electric piano and vocals. His vocals attain a quality reminiscent of the soul legend The Miracles while keeping his Barry Manilow piano ballads high in the mix. If you dig Sir Elton, you will dig "My Life" as it is a treasure of pop music embedded with artistic piano arrangements.

-Shaun and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Lee Michaels's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

"Dust In Your Hands" by Tom Hood and The Trailmen (