NYS Music 2024

Tag: New Single

  • Folk Band The Felice Brothers Release New Single Flowers By The Roadside

    Folk Rock band, The Felice Brothers, released their single “Flowers By The Roadside” on Thursday. The track is a preview of the upcoming album Valley of Abandoned Songs set to be released on June 28.

    “Flowers By The Roadside” has a classic Americana acoustic sound and is accompanied by a music video which is filmed in a film noir and new wave style. It follows a young girl on her little adventures while some of the lyrics are typed out on the screen. 

    Guitarist and vocalist, Ian Felice said, “this song was written one especially bleak winter day as a means to teleport to summer. Midway through the first and only take of the song James walked across the room, picked up a toy glockenspiel and plucked out a melody that had occurred to him. It was recorded in 2018 in our old cinderblock studio outside of Hudson, NY.”

    The Felice Brothers are originally from Palenville, NY in the Catskill mountains and they first started to get attention in the 2000’s when they played in the New York City Subway. Their first self released album Lantown came out in 2005. Since their start they’ve toured with Old Crow Medicine Show and opened for Dave Matthews Band. They are currently signed to Conor Oberst’s new label, Million Star Records. The band is made up of Ian Felice, James Felice (piano/vocals), Jeske Hume (bass), and Will Lawrence (drums).

    Along with the new single, the album is full of great pieces. Ian Felice’s melancholic voice fills each song and some tracks have a slight bluegrass sound. The album has been described by Ian Felice as a “tightrope walk between light and dark.”

  • NYC-Based Electronic Musician Moby Shares new Track “where is your pride?”

    Acclaimed New York City-based electronic musician, producer and activist Moby celebrates the life of Benjamin Zephaniah with the new track “where is your pride?,” out now taken from his 22nd studio album always centered at night, due out June 14th .

    Moby
    Moby, photo credit: Lindsay Hicks

    The break-beat-driven track is spoken word with a powerful message delivered in the late dub poet’s characteristically warm burr. “Where is your love? / Where is your faith? / Where is your hope? / Where is your place? / Where is your pride?” Moby is proud to share a track with the late Benjamin Zephaniah to continue celebrating his life and note their aligned ideals: “As a vegan activist, and as a wise and compassionate man, Benjamin inspired me for many years. I hope that ‘where is your pride’ honors his legacy and also draws people’s attention to his life, work, and principles.”

    Benjamin Zephaniah was a British writer, dub poet, actor, musician, and poetry and creative writing professor. He was included in The Times list of Britain’s top 50 post-war writers in 2008. He won the BBC Radio 4 Young Playwrights Festival Award in 1998 and received at least sixteen honorary doctorates.

    Benjamin Zephaniah | Photo credit: Adrian Pope.

    Moby was born Richard Melville Hall, in Harlem, in 1965. His father gave him his nickname, Moby, because of his hereditary relationship with Herman Melville. Moby started playing classical music and studying music theory when he was nine and came of age musically in the punk rock scene in and around New York in the early 80’s. He released his first single, “Go,” in 1991 (listed as one of Rolling Stone magazine’s best records) and has been making albums ever since. He has sold over 20,000,000 albums worldwide.

    Even by Moby’s standards, always centered at night is special. The album features 13 collaborations from names many might recognize to others many undoubtedly will come to know. The captivating voices on always centered at night include Sudanese, Netherlands-based chanteuse Gaidaa, London-based, Burundian royal refugee J.P. Bimeni, and Kingston-raised, London-based Aynzli Jones. These are often personal songs, and the personal is the political, as is the border-defying nature of the work.

    In his pursuit of new sounds, Moby has become a collector of voices. He’s a connoisseur of the timbre and texture of human vocal chords, whether sampling artists like Bessie Jones, Vera Hall, or Boy Blue, or working with superstars like David Bowie.

    Thrilled to bring this dynamic body of work to the world, Moby explains, “For the last 30 years, I’ve worked with amazing singers–everyone from David Bowie to Freddie Mercury, Gregory Porter to Jill Scott. Always centered at night continues my love of collaborating, but has a focus of working with amazing singers who might not be as well known as David Bowie and Gregory Porter.” Though all tracks are collaborations, the music remains unmistakably Moby, dripping with glittery melodies and warm, hypnotic instrumentals.

    For more information, visit here.

  • Enrose Shares Empowering Message on New Single, “My Happiness”

    Enrose took a break from touring to record and release their new single, “My Happiness”. Led by Gabi Rose, the New York based band explored life’s challenges and how we face them. Sonically, the single is reminiscent of late ’90s early 2000s alt-rock, with a sax chorus, upbeat rhythm, and synth solo.

    The lyrics delve into life’s darkest moments, and the power we have to overcome them. Rose describes the desperation on continuing to survive while at rock bottom, singing, “Been surviving this long on dangerously low gasoline… How dumb, you only come and call when you’re needing me?”. Rose questions why she only takes care of herself when it’s too late, reminding herself, “that girl I’m talking to/ my happiness depends on you”.

    Erose originated in basement parties and house shows, and paid homage to their roots in the “My Happiness” music video. The video features Rose talking to herself in the mirror, representing the song’s internal monologue perspective. The video also features a high energy performance by the band, surrounded by friends.

    Enrose “My Happiness” represents a nostalgia that has become increasingly popular, a return to pop-rock of the late ’90s. The infectious chorus, along with the emotional lyrics, draw listeners in and do not disappoint. The optimistic message is refreshing, and delivered in an honest and sincere way. The high energy performance in the music video solidifies Enrose’s reputation as dynamic performers, in addition to skilled artists.

    Enrose is performing at the Great South Bay Music Festival on July 19th. Tickets can be found at the following link, and a 10% discount is available with code “ROSE”.

  • Totten Bridge Releases Powerful New Single, “Seasons Change”

    Rising Pop-Rock artist Totten Bridge pulls on fans’ heartstrings with his latest single, “Seasons Change.” Motivated by the loss of his mother, the New York artist drew inspiration from Fleetwood Mac’s “Songbird.”

    Times of difficulty have been a catalyst of inspiration for Totten Bridge, whose career began during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Defying categorization, the NYC-based artist draws inspiration from Alt-Pop, infused with folk, EDM, and American Heartland influences. Totten Bridge has received critical acclaim from numerous publications, including Clash, Notion, and Earmilk. Totten Bridge’s poetic lyrics explore universal themes of life, love, and in the case of “Seasons Change,” loss.

    In the face of grief, “Seasons Change” offers a refreshingly optimistic perspective. Totten Bridge revealed his desire for the song to be a call to action, saying, “I wanted ‘Seasons Change’ to feel powerful and cause someone to… [embrace] change and [overcome] their fears.” “Seasons Change” shifts focus to the future, encouraging listeners to focus on what is to come and overcoming life’s challenges. The infectious beat and anthemic chorus promises listeners “long winding roads will lead the way”.

    The influence of Fleetwood Mac is apparent in the personal lyrics and strong message. Speaking to universal experiences of love and loss, Totten Bridge successfully resonates with listeners’ emotions. The driving beat and gripping chorus draw listeners in and demand full attention. Change is one of the few certainties in life, and “Seasons Change” empathizes with fear while encouraging optimism.

  • Olatuja Release “Ijo” Ahead of Long-Awaited Album

    World/roots duo Olatuja has announced the release of their latest single, “Ijo” which heralds their upcoming self-titled album, Olatuja set to release on May 31.

    Olatuja

    Olatuja is a duo comprised of Alicia and Michael Olatuja. “Ijo” fuses the rich heritage of Michael’s Yoruba culture, the evolving popular music of West Africa, and the gospel and jazz traditions that inform Alicia’s musicality. The two have played a prominent role in New York’s music scene for years. Their work spans the worlds of jazz, Broadway, soul, African music, film, and more.

    The duo released their last album The Promise in 2011. The release of their self-titled album May 31 marks their first completed compilation since then. The track “Ijo” has been in genesis since the pandemic, and the duo are eager to share their combined talent with the world.

    Olatuja

    “Ijo” is a song heavily inspired by the music of West Africa. Its powerful bassline drives the music forward. The percussion is dynamic, the strings add a wonderful element, and the layered vocals make the track pop with life. The song is vibrant. Olatuja added several small elements along with large ones throughout.

    You can hear horns, strings, percussion, and vocals in each sector of the tune. There is a rising action and a climax followed by a triumphant finish. “Ijo” is certainly a song that makes you want to move and sing. The track’s lyrical presence is strong, and it holds meaningful themes about not giving up in the face of hardship.

    For more information on Olatuja, their past releases, and to stay up to date on upcoming music, click here.

  • DJ Premier & Snoop Dogg Release Official Music Video for New Single ‘Can U Dig That?’

    DJ Premier and Snoop Dogg stay tapped in with the streets as two of hip hop’s most revered figures come together for the official music video to their latest single “Can U Dig That?.” After releasing the single a few weeks ago, the duo have now come together adding visuals to their groovy west coast track. Featuring cousin and fellow original Death Row records signee Daz Dillinger, “Can U Dig That?” pays ode to the state of California, their hip hop legends, and the urban life profiled throughout many of their songs.

    Cover art for "Can U Dig That," the new single from Dj Premier and Snoop Dogg.
    Snoop Dogg, Daz Dillinger and DJ Premier pay tribute to the West coast in their new single.

    “Can U Dig That?” Official Video

    In light the music video follows a similar path as the record. Notably, Snoop Dogg is seen at a roundtable with with Daz Dillinger with DJ Premier on the 1’s and 2’s as the duo enjoy a trademark joint while Snoop reminisces on his journey as a West Coast native. Similarly, the record contains plenty of famous name drops as Snoop pays tribute to some of California’s most recognizable faces in hip hop, including Easy-E, E-40 and Ice-T. With a backdrop of a G-funk inspired beat with the now-iconic DJ Premier record scratches, Snoop also pays tribute to inner-city California life encapsulating the overall vibe of the Wes Coast. Uniquely while Snoop acknowledged the shootouts, those “on the yard,” he puts a positive twist to the record urging for the beef in the West come to an end.

    Though Premier and Snoop have worked together previously; Snoop appeared on Gang Starr’s The Ownerz Album (“In The Life…”), Premier produced two songs on Snoop’s Paid Tha Cost To Be Da Boss album, “Unfucwitable” feat The Lady Of Rage from Snoop’s Doggy Style Allstars Vol. 1, “Can U Dig That?” is their first collaboration under DJ Premier and Ian Schwartzman’s independent imprint TTT.  

  • Saigon & Fredro Release ‘Think Twice’ Ft. Grand Puba From Upcoming ‘The Jordan Era’ EP

    Saigon and Swedish, multi-platinum producer Fredro release another track from their upcoming EP, The Jordan Era, channeling the musical ethos from one of the most romanticized periods in pop culture history. After the initial release of “Lyrical Genius” featuring Grandmaster Caz (co-author of “Rappers Delight” and the emcee with the longest running tenure atop the billboard Hot 100 Charts), the duo then released “Get Loose” featuring the legendary Pete Rock, with Saigon channeling the frenzied, experimental sound of hip hop from the early 90’s. In like manner, this latest effort,”Think Twice,” sees the duo recruit another great from hip hop’s golden age in Brand Nubian‘s Grand Puba.

    Cover art for Saigon and Fredro's release "Think Twice" featuring Grand Puba.
    Saigon and Fredro recruit another hip hop great for their latest release “Think Twice.”

    Saigon and Grand Puba Make you “Think Twice”

    “Think Twice” follows a similar recipe as the rest of The Jordan Era. In fact, you can hear “Think Twice” in season 3 episode 2 of the Starz breakout hit show BMF, chronicling the late ’80’s and ’90’s rise of the real life BMF drug empire. Staying true to the era Fredro comes with the jazz-inspired, funky production that littered the late ’80’s and ’90’s in hip hop. Moreover, Saigon and Grand Puba’s purposeful delivery are matched by their equally apt rhymes.

    Keeping in theme with ’90’s lore, the duo drop plenty of knowledge along with their fair share of hip hop braggadocio. However, the purposeful record maintains an overall uptempo, positive and knowledgeable tone. While hip hop has evolved over the years, one of the main downturns in the genre has been the lack of positive messaging in contemporary music. In light Saigon, Fredro and Grand Puba look to bring back the times with this latest effort.

    Growing up, Brand Nubian was one of my favorite groups, and Grand Puba as a solo artist shaped and molded my fashion sense at that time, and he is my favorite artist of all time. Grand Puba has never gotten his due respect. Before Kanye, it was Puba who made the rugby with the knapsack look cool. He also always made sure there was some kind of a positive message in his music.  

    – Saigon

    The Jordan Era sees production entirely from Fredro, while sonically honing in on the 10-year from 1986 through 1996. Additionally, the album features guest appearances from Grandmaster Caz, Pete Rock, Big Daddy Kane, Kool G Rap, Grand Puba, Sadat X, Rockness Monsta, Craig G, Ill Skratch—with more features set for reveal upon release. The Jordan Era will be releasing on May 3 via Payday Records.

  • Brendan James Releases New Single, “Feel Alive”

    NYC-based R&B singer/songwriter Brendan James has released a brand new single titled “Feel Alive,” from his upcoming album Focus.

    Brendan James is an alternative pop, soul, and R&B fusion singer and producer. James and his producer Stroobz Beats recently released their latest single “Feel Alive” from the upcoming album Focus. The track marks the artist’s fourth studio single.

    Brendan’s self-proclaimed identity as an “old soul” is epitomized by both his musical inspirations and his own body of work. From Earth, Wind, and Fire to Usher and Luciano Pavarotti, Brendan’s musical inclinations are brimming with generations of spirit and souls.

    Brendan James’ single “Feel Alive” has strong emotion tied in each note. It has elements of pop-R&B, alternative, and even gospel. One can argue there is something of an emo undertone here. The track’s layered vocals, powerful intonations, and flowing melody provide a real treat for the soul.

    James’ style is in every sense, dynamic. The track has multiple changes in melody and vocal style. The soundscape this track occupies is unique, yet reminiscent of those who came before him. Brendan James’ music speaks to a variety of people from hip hop and R&B enjoyers to pop and alt enjoyers as well. Simply put, this track starts strong and ends stronger.

    Make sure to stay up to date on the release of Brendan James’ upcoming album, Focus. For more information on the artist, visit his Spotify here.

  • Funk-Fusion Trio Pocket Bandits Release Debut Single this April

    Funk/rock-fusion trio Pocket Bandits have announced the release of their debut single, “The Pocket Bandit,” on April 5. The trio hails from Ithaca and hopes to dazzle listeners with their upcoming track.

    The debut single is set to put Pocket Bandits out there once and for all. The single is a bold opening volley from a band of experienced musicians with big ambitions for their new collaboration. The trio is comprised of Joe Massa, Samuel B. Lupowitz, and Simon Bjarning. Joe and Samuel have played together for a decade.

    The group practices a fusion of sounds from funk, progressive rock, and jam-blues. The music sees a funky guitar-organ combo that keeps the listener entranced. The trio can be described as a fun, funky fusion of R&B grooves, jazz improvisation, rock intensity, and catchy-yet-unpredictable songwriting.

    The single is to be marked with a record release at The Downstairs in Ithaca on Saturday, April 6. Pocket Bandits plays two sets of original material, and a third set backing up Marlyand-based post-rock singer-songwriter Mark Hennessey.

    The group aims not merely to show off, but to fill the dance floor with their engaging original compositions, as well as the occasional crowd-pleaser by artists from The Beatles to Billie Eilish. Their debut single showcases the groups experience, talent, and ability to make groove ensue.

    To stay up to date on Pocket Bandits’ upcoming releases and to find out more about the trio, click here. Make sure to check out their upcoming shows as well.

  • Brooklyn Alt-Rockers Castle Black Release Single “Heart Can’t Feel”

    Brooklyn-based alternative/post-punk group Castle Black recently released their latest single titled, “Heart Can’t Feel.” The single is off of the band’s upcoming album, The Highway at Night.

    castle black "Heart Can't Feel"

    Castle Black is an ever-evolving thunderstorm of sound on a backdrop of captivating hooks and edgy soundscapes. Castle Black draws elements from punk, post-punk, grunge, alternative and new-wave music. The band sees the release of their first full length album, The Highway at Night in June.

    The single, “Heart Can’t Feel” is the second released single off the album. The group has released six EPs since 2015. Castle Black hopes to reach new heights with the release of their first full-length album.

    “Heart Can’t Feel” begins with captivating chords, vocal tones, and immediate action. The song has strong influence from a band like Hole. The fierceness of the vocals, the upbeat yet grungy sound, and the song structure are very reminiscent of Hole and other alternative bands from that era.

    The riffs throughout the song catch the listener right away and refuse to stay static. The track is certainly very post-punk in its vocals, grunge in its tone, alternative in its pace and instruments, with a bit of a new-wave aura to it. Castle Black does an excellent job here of crafting a catchy, punchy, and fun piece of music.

    To give “Heart Can’t Feel” a listen and to learn more about the minds behind the music, click here.

Built in Breakdance