NYS Music 2023

Tag: EP Release

  • Chris Garneau Releases New EP ‘Out Of Love’

    New York artist Chris Garneau has released his new EP Out Of Love on December 8, preceding a pair of new singles titled “Millions” and “First Man”.

    Chris Garneau Out Of Love
    Photo by Michael George

    Chris Garneau is an American alternative indie singer and songwriter who entered the music scene in 2006 after releasing debut album Music for Tourists. Garneau explores themes of excitement, heartbreak, surprise with the sound of electric guitar, upright bass and drums to round out powerful narrative anthems.

    “’First Man’ isn’t just about a first crush but more importantly an initial recognition of a person’s queerness. My boyfriend wrote the lyrics, basing it on his memories of falling in love with the macho action movie characters from his youth. The concept led to a laid back, folk rock country vibe, and that informed the other songs on the EP. I wanted the production to be mostly acoustic, back porch summer nights with a smoky saloon atmosphere. And thanks to JOFF art direction and styling, and photographer Michael George, the shots look like movie stills. Throughout the shoot, it felt like I was acting and inhabiting these characters’ spaces — that was the point of this whole EP, that’s exactly what we set out to do.”

    – Chris Garneau

    The EP is made up of four songs that are character driven and capture the feeling of being transformed by the way of love. This is Garneau’s first collaboration with his boyfriend Marc Briz, a lyricist and fiction writer. Garneau and Briz acknowledge their first recognition of being queer and veer towards the Americana; the lovesick cowboy, the celebrity actor who pines for the spiritual, the addict who leaves this earth with love for the life he lived.

    The EP sparks a lush and soulful ballad which emerges emotive songwriting and displays a layered sonic landscape, speaking truth towards owning your identity and casting off shame. The songs are powerful, poignant, and mesmerize the intensity of the story despite its dark subject matter. Chris continues to pursue a diverse array of sound that influence an otherworldly and sensible talent.

    Listen to “Out of Love” by Chris Garneau below.

  • Nora Polinnia Releases Resilient Sophomore EP “Present Chronicles”

    Nora Polinnia’s sophomore EP, Present Chronicles, is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a heartfelt expression of resilience and a call to action. While residing in New York City, Nora’s music transcends borders and languages, making her an influential voice in the fight for justice.

    In her own words, “Yes, indeed, there is a time and place for groovy, happy music – such was my first EP. However, I think that now it is time to clarify my beliefs and the beliefs of those I hold close.”

    Present Chronicles is an EP that came to life unexpectedly, driven by the collective pain of Nora’s home country, Ukraine. As she watched the world around her, Nora couldn’t help but wonder how she could make a difference, how she could channel her anger and communicate the Ukrainian people’s struggles to the rest of the world.

    The result is a musical journey that delves into themes of resilience, loneliness, betrayal, and the responsibilities that come with our heritage. It’s an exploration of the human experience during times when accepting reality is not an option.

    “Some of the songs I wrote didn’t seem war-related to me at all. They didn’t feel like they encapsulated the message I wanted to put out. Some I wrote before the war even began, but soon I realized that they are very relevant. They address all of the emotional factors and burdens that came into play because of what was happening.”

    Nora Polinnia

    Nora’s Present Chronicles doesn’t aim to invoke pity; it seeks to reveal the anger and resilience of the Ukrainian people and expose the reality of the Russian invasion. Tracks like ‘KGB‘ on the EP boldly challenge Russian propaganda and use ironic lyrics to mock the regime.

    This musical project, born out of a deep sense of purpose, carries a message of hope and strength. Nora hopes that her music will serve as a legacy, a testament to the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people.

    Nora Polinnia’s artistry is a reflection of the power of music to inspire change, and her music carries a message of hope and resilience that resonates deeply with her audience.

    Listen To “Present Chronicles” Here.