Troy-based indie rock band The Belle Curves release their new album titled Subject to Change which blends Americana and rock.
The Belle Curves is the primary creative vehicle for Troy-based songwriter Delaney Hafener. The group focuses on an indie sound but with a folky, americana twist. Their latest record Subject to Change displays a variety of the group’s sounds and abilities.
The opening track “Hand Rolled” is a soft rock tune with a classic sound, but still maintaining their roots with modern indie themes. The next track “Life in the Hinterlands” bolts out of the gate with a roadtrippin’ americana feel. It certainly has a country twang and still holds the indie sound close. Delaney’s voice is dynamic, with high highs and low lows. Her abilities speak for themself throughout this album. The track “Sister” really showcases the power in the softness of Delaney’s vocals.
The track “The Process” in particular caught my attention quite soon during the first play. The track progresses wonderfully from lowkey to fierce and powerful. It then concludes in such an angelic and completing way with the vocals and instruments coming to a head followed by a fade out.
For more information on The Belle Curves and their upcoming album Subject to Change visit their Bandcamp by clicking here.
On August 16, Jim Andralis, known for hosting the country music variety show Grand Ole Pubry at Joeâs Pub in downtown Manhattan, released his fifth LP, Ghosts.
The 11-song collection is a stark reflection on life, death, and what it means to be human. The raw emotion behind Ghosts inspires the listener to reflect on the interactions taken for granted set to the tune of soothing country guitars and Andralis’ harmonies.
Ghosts starts with “The Worst Thing,” a somber introduction to the concept of grief. The track gives us a different perspective on human emotion. It may not be the worst thing to let yourself feel your emotions and process them completely before moving on. It may not be the worst thing for things to not work out the way we expect them to. It’s a lesson that everyone could use; life isn’t very fair, after all.
The following two tracks, “5 Minutes” and “You,” are both exemplary of the album’s themes of grief and loss. “5 Minutes” is a testament to the loss of Andralis’ dog, Nikko. “You” is a poignant elegy for Barbara Maier Gustern, Andralis’ vocal coach and cherished friend. Both tracks reflect on his experiences with these adored loved ones, the time spent with both, and how love transcends romantic feelings. It is clear that these losses deeply affected Andralis and inspired him to put these feelings to music, a coping mechanism that brings him, and by proxy, his listeners, a sense of peace.
Songs like “Manhattanhenge” and “Brooklyn” bring another theme into light: the haunting of New York City. In a duet with his husband Larry Krone, “Manhattanhenge” explores the idea of an afterlife in a city loved by millions. What will happen when they’re gone, and how will New York play a part in their afterlife? Will they haunt the city they fell in love with, or move on to somewhere new? Andralis and Krone’s voices blend together in an almost perfect fashion, and it leaves listeners hoping that if there is an afterlife, they get the chance to spend it together.
Jim Andralis’ fifth album, Ghosts, gives fans an opportunity to explore some of life’s darkest themes. However, there is a comforting feeling in knowing that we are not alone when it comes to these emotions. Andralis’s country guitars provide a soothing feeling to those who are suffering from the hardships of grief and losing a loved one.
Fans can find more information and music on Jim Andralis’ website, including work with the NYC-based queer punk band The Isotoners and duets with his husband, Larry Krone.
On Friday, August 23, Woodstock-based Americana musician Eddy Lee Ryder released her debut album, Sweet Delusions. The album is a testament to Ryder’s storytelling ability, ironically recounting one of the worst parts of life through playfully catchy tunes that still bring out hers, and our own, deepest emotions.
After releasing a collection of singles and EPs, Ryder amassed a decent following through her emotional storytelling and unique, nostalgic musical style. With the help of musicians like producer Father John Misty, drummer/musical director Dan Bailey, multi-instrumentalist Daniel Chae (Zach Bryan, Kacey Musgraves), and keyboardists Todd Caldwell (Crosby, Stills & Nash, James Taylor) and Dave Shephard, along with harmonies and other help from NYC friends like Rebecca Haviland and pianist Abby Payne, Sweet Delusions is an opus two years in the making.
Throughout the entirety of the album, Ryder wears her heart on her sleeve, showing her anger, bitterness, and frustration in a failed relationship. Yet, even through all those negative feelings, there is a deep sense of romanticism behind the music, as if she’s looking back on these particular events and trying to decide whether they were positive or negative. Despite the ending of the album resembling the end of a relationship, the conflicts presented in the music leave the audience wishing they could be a fly on a wall during any one of these recording sessions.
“I want my music to carry multiple emotions, just like every experience,” Ryder says. “Nostalgia, absurdity, humor, and sorrow.”
Sweet Delusions is no exception. At its core, it is a quintessential breakup album with all the turmoil and heartbreak dripping from each track. With this album, Ryder goes back to the folky sounds of the 70s, with a slight southern twang that she herself admitted was purely accidental. Ironically, it feels like the perfect genre to express those emotions of heartbreak, sadness, and the emotional turmoil of a relationship heading in the wrong direction.
Through tracks like “Highwaymen” and “Only Real Cowboy,” Ryder perfectly depicts a toxic relationship. In the lead single, “Highwaymen,” she compares her relationship to that of Thelma and Louise, knowing something would lead to disaster and terrible consequences but eagerly doing it anyway out of sheer excitement and adrenaline. Through “Only Real Cowboy,” her sense of romanticism comes back full circle, singing about a completely bipolar relationship. Ryder depicts this secretive recluse and the emotional turmoil that comes with that type of relationship in an almost Lana Del Rey-like fashion.
However, leading single “Bad Decisions” expresses the complete opposite. While the romanticization of Ryder’s past relationship is definitely present in other singles, “Bad Decisions” brings us back to reality. The track reminds the audience to be angry at everything that happened, repeating, “Don’t say you love me if you’re here for a good time.” While “Highwaymen” tells us of the excitement of something new and potentially toxic, tracks like “Bad Decisions” and “Joke is on Me” bring us back to those dreadful feelings where the rose-tinted glasses come off and reality sinks in. By “County Fair,” the depression with realizing a relationship must end comes in full swing, and the listener gets to see the path of growth and healing it takes to come to that decision.
Regardless of whether the country music vibes were “accidental”, Eddy Lee Ryder definitely uses it to her advantage. The end of this relationship brought forth plenty of anxiety, anger, and depression that is depicted in a perfect way. As a whole, the intimate nature of country music gives us a deeper understanding of Ryder’s feelings. The intimacy definitely pays off throughout the entirety of the album, and she depicts the whirlwind of emotions in a perfect way.
It’s safe to say that Eddy Lee Ryder’s debut album was a surmounting success. Her goal of carrying multiple emotions was definitely met, and it was almost whiplash-inducing to go back and forth between her emotions. After the release of Sweet Delusions, it’s exciting to see what will come next from Eddy Lee Ryder.
Sweet Delusions is out now on all streaming platforms and fans can visit Ryder’s website for any updates and new releases.
Benny The Butcher looks to make his mark on the summer, returning with Buffalo Butch Vol. 1 just two weeks after releasing Summertime Butch. The new 3-track EP features close collaborator 38 Spesh, along with guest spots from Fabolous and Drake on the songs “Hard Way Freestyle” and “Buffalo Freestyle” respectively.
Artwork for Benny The Butcher 3-song E, Buffalo Butch Vol. 1
Benny Back Again
It’s been just over six months since the Grammy and Emmy nominated Buffalo native released his Def Jam Recordings debut, Everybody Can’t Go. During which he tried his hand at a more commercial sound along with a mainstream album that included several singles and guest spots on popular hip hop adjacent podcasts. While songs like the West Coast influenced “Back Again,” and the uptempo “How To Rap” showed some variance to Benny’s musical approach, his core fans continue to yearn for the gritty street rhymes that Benny and his tone-setting delivery have become synonymous with.
Artwork for Benny The Butcher 10-song EP, Summertime Butch
As a result he returned with Summertime Butch featuring appearances from Black Soprano Family signees Rick Hyde, ElCamino, and Fuego Base. With an additionally cameo from hip hop legend Ed Lover on “Summer 24,” while Harry Fraud and StreetRunner handled the album’s production. Now juts two weeks later he returns with a 3-pack of tracks to close the Summer out strong. As these last two EP’s have seen Benny return to his grimy best. Back are the slow, cinematic beats with street tales galore. Moreover, each song on Buffalo Butch Vol. 1 sees Benny bring the best out of his collaborators, which includes Drake first feature with a rapper of Benny’s pedigree since his much publicized beef with Kendrick Lamar. However, as of right now the Drake feature has been removed from streaming since the project’s release on Thursday night.
Producer/Composer MVW is back with a new single featuring current Houston underground staple Lisha G. The new record, “Ova With,” is a silky flowing thumper that sees MVW brings his trademark piano driven melodies. Meanwhile, the burgeoning Lisha G’s penetrating vocals and southern twang to create a stimulating mix.
MVW’s new single “Ova With” features burgeoning Houston rapper Lisha G.
Her intoxicating flow makes for a trippy listen on it own however, however, combined with MVW’s classically trained melodies create a refreshing song with two artists forging their own unique paths. Yet, aside from Lisha G’s inviting vocals, her appeal comes from the wholesome, small-town values that set the Houston rapper apart from other artists. Moreover, “Ova With” continues a rise that has also seen her collaborate with Famous Dex and gain even more traction following her performance in her On The Radar Freestyle. For his part, MVW continues to collaborate and feature bubbling female underground rap artists. He dropped songs with TiaCorine, aka Freaky T and rising star Anycia.
New Album
All in all, this is the beginning of what presumes to be a busy few months for for MVW as the Staten Island native is set to release a joint-project this October with frequent collaborator Valee. Earlier this year MVW dropped “Goofy” featuring deceased legend Gangsta Boo. Meanwhile, the fall release will be their second collaborative album, as their debut effort Valeedation offered a welcome into MVW and Valee’s world of pianos, violins, horns and effortless delivery.
The new project will be MVW’s 4th hip hop album following his decision to complement his career as a composer by expanding into the fluid world of hip hop music. MVW kicked things off in 2021 with the Lex Luger assisted CLASSIC$, followed by Connections in 2022 and Valeedation with Valee in 2023.
On August 16, Albany-based singer-songwriter, Josh Breden released his long-awaited quintessential passion project, Unfinished Business. The new body of work represents what Breden’s career has led up to, as well as who he is as a musician.
About Josh Breden
Josh Breden has been making music since he was a child. After experimenting with different methods of bringing his music to life, Breden took it to the next step with bands, collaborations, becoming a recording artist, and performing anywhere at any time. As a live musician since 2005, he took every opportunity to strengthen his craft and expand his knowledge and abilities, thus learning more about himself in the process.
Through the journey of completely indulging in the art of making music, Breden learned that he never wants to be confined to a genre, as his artistry flourishes with creative freedom. Because of this, he faced the grapple of being an authentic musician in an industry of patterns, labels, streaming, and money.
Unfinished Business came about when Breden entered the streaming service sphere with a few old tracks. Effectively, it put into perspective the necessary new-age demands of being a living artist. It confirmed two things for Breden. Firstly, if he was going to put an album out into the world he wanted each song to be its own unique entity. Secondly, he knew if he was going to successfully be a streaming artist, he needed a method to the madness which came in the form of producer Dan Gerken.
The two clicked and the vision pursued into what is now a 10-track album and possibly Breden’s most genuine piece of music. Every song has its own character with elements of rock, folk, country, tropical, and whatever Breden was feeling at the moment. Appropriately, Breden created a rock album that is never just rock.
The name unfinished business has a lot of significance here; It’s a little bit of closing the book on parts of life, a little bit of going back to my old self to see if it’s still me, its a little revenge, and a little understanding that theres more to do.
Josh Breden
Standout Tracks
Though it’s hard to single out specific tracks as they’re all unique and contribute to the final product in their own right, certain songs are more different from the others. In particular “Islands of Calleja” stands out as a tropical escape through its instrumentation and lyrics. Another track, “No Bueno” has that cosmic jam band sound with elements across a multiple-genre spectrum. Lastly, “Just Wasn’t Made for These Times” provides a commentary about adjusting to the evolving world. A true musician through and through, Breden lets the messages guide the music without conforming to anybody’s control but his.
It’s clear that Jay Skeese intends to follow the Griselda model of flooding the market. The first signee to Conway The Machine‘s Drumwork Music imprint, Jae Skeese, is set to release his 2nd project of the year, Ground Level, on August 16. The new album comes on the heels of his first project of the year, Testament of The Times, released in March. In light of the new album, the Buffalo native, has gone on to release several singles with a list of exclusive features as part of this underground effort,.
About Ground Level
With this in mind, Jae Skeese teased the upcoming album with the calculated release of a single roughly every2 weeks. Beginning with the project’s lead single and video, “Situated” featuring Big K.R.I.T. and Sauce Walka, to set the tone for Ground Level. He later retuned with the projects second single, the star-studded “Sara Lee.” Featuring Dave East, Jay Worthy and a sultry chorus from r&b singer Lloyd, the record offers an alternative side to Jae Skeese. “Sara Lee” is a vibe that I don’t think you haven’t got from me yet. I wanted to show another side of who I am as an artist and give the ladies something to think about,” Jae Skeese comments.“
The lastest single, “Brick After Brick (Ground Level),” also doubles as the intro track for Ground Level. Featuring thunderous, tone-setting horns, Jae Skeese hopes to set the tone with this into record. Moreover, Skeese takes the next step in his career with Ground Level. After all, he has spent the last three years laying the foundation for his breakthrough — which includes Skeese’s Drumwork debut, Abolished Uncertainties, and his collaborative album with Conway The Machine Pain Provided Profit. Thus, Ground Level‘s release this Friday is a testament to Jae Skeese’s evolution as an artist, as he continues to stack up high-profile collaborations
Billie Marten played a surprise show at Union Pool on Wednesday, July 24. The British indie/folk singer-songwriter announced the show in a handwritten note on Instagram teasing “mostly new stuff” to be played. Marten began her set with an announcement of a new record that she had just spent ten days recording down the street from Union Pool. She didn’t give a solid idea of when this new album might be coming out, but Marten’s last album, Drop Cherries, released just over a year ago on April 7, 2023.
Opening for Billie Marten was writer and musician Jana Horn. If you like Big Thief and Adrianne Lenker, you might also enjoy Jana Horn’s work. Intimate, interpersonal talk singing poetry over folksy drums and unique bass lines. She rode the line between banter and awkwardness perfectly, and the crowd had a great time. Marten then came out quietly onto the stage in Union Pool’s back room, which has the vibe of a Christmassy saloon. One pink light drenched Marten onstage with her acoustic guitar in her spaghetti strap top, light wash jeans, and red converse.
The show was very low-key. Marten’s pickup came loose and the sound engineer scrambled down from his spot up on the balcony as the crowd parted around him. Billie Marten told the audience to talk amongst themselves, and the room filled with a buzz until she was ready to play again. There was plenty of audience banter as Marten changed tunings between each song. We only got to hear four or five new songs, so there is definitely more to come down the road. Hopefully, Billie Marten will be able to put the finishing touches on her album soon, as we are all eagerly awaiting her next show in NY.
Grafh and 38 Spesh’s “Rocafella Chain” is the latest single in promotion of their joint-album, God’s Timing, which drops on August 2. The new single features a quartet of former Roc-A-Fella Records artists in Memphis Bleek, Freeway, Peedi Crack and Grafh himself in an ode to the legendary record label. Moreover, this is the second single Grafh and 38 Spesh have released ahead of God’s Timing, with this new single following the Talib Kweli assisted, “Right Now.”
Roc-A-Fella records alumni come together for this latest heater
If these two records are anything to go by then the new project will be full of quality. On “Rocafella Chain,” 38 Spesh sets the tone with a hard-hitting horn and drums loop before each artist takes turns trying to steal the show. In like manner, the record brings back memories of a good old posse cut. In turn, each artist brings their distinctive style, creating a dynamic and energetic anthem that pays respect to their roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary hip-hop.
God’s Timing
God’s Timing will be released on August 2, and is produced in its entirety by 38 Spesh. The album also includes appearances from Jim Jones, Talib Kweli, Method Man, Vado, Freeway, Memphis Bleek and Peedi Crakk. This will be the first joint-project between Grafh and 38 Spesh in a link-up between upstate, New York and the city.
Rock singer-songwriter Nicole Atkins announced an East Coast Tour starting in September with a show at Daryl’s House in Pawling, NY. Justin & the Cosmics will serve as support for the entire run.
A prominent figure in rock music for over two decades, Nicole Atkins has been actively touring and producing music since 2002. Mostly inspired by 1960s and 70s psychedelic rock artists like The Doors and The Sundays, she started writing what she termed “a mix of Americana, 60s, and indie rock.” In 2003, Atkins released her first EP, Bleeding Diamonds.
Along with her tour, Atkins is currently working on her sixth studio album. “Now, with a bunch of new songs and a great band and some time before the studio, I can’t wait to figure out what these new songs want to be at the shows!” Atkins says about her upcoming album. “I’ve always wanted to do it that way like I did it before my first record, but now it actually feels like time is on my side and I have some to make it happen.” Her previous album, Italian Ice (2020), was her best-reviewed album to date, drawing rave reviews internationally.
For the last two decades of her career, Nicole Atkins has performed in several festivals and concerts. Halfway into 2024, Atkins has already had an incredible year, opening for both Stevie Nicks and also her friends, The Mavericks, whose new album she is featured on. Now, after remarkable stretches with rock icons and showstoppers, she reemerges with her own headlining tour.
Starting on September 5, Atkins heads to Pawling, NY, for a night in Daryl’s House. Catch her at Woodstock and Ridgewood, Queens, on September 7 and 21, respectively. Atkins’ new album, which is yet to be named, is set to release in 2025.
The full tour dates are listed below. Tickets are available now on Nicole Atkins’ website, linked here.
SEPTEMBER
5 – Pawling, NY – Daryl’s House
6 – Montclair, NJ – Outpost In The Burbs
7 – Woodstock, NY – Levon Helm Studios
9 – Boston, MA – City Winery – Boston
11 – Philadelphia, PA – 118 North
12 – Asbury Park, NJ – Wonder Bar
15 – Manchester Center, VT – Billsville House Concerts
