Featured Single

Band Name: Allesandro Bottura
Featured Single: Stern Memories
Album: Morning Grooves
Genre: Jazz Fusion
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"Songs From the Cradle of Rock 'N' Roll" by Jk Rockets (Rock Artist from Delaware(DE))

"Songs From the Cradle of Rock 'N' Roll" by the trio known as Jk Rockets takes listeners on a euphoric trip back to the classic era of rockabilly. The flagships of this CD - superior instrumentation, authentic vocal performances, and top-notch production - meld to create a collection that is nostalgically irresistible and delightfully energetic. The light-hearted and groovy "Text Me Baby" highlights the highly refined musicianship and cleverly composed lyrics displayed on this record. "Brand New Me" slows down the pace a bit, seducing listeners with a contagious blues vibe. Furthermore, the anthem like "Never 2 Late 2 Rock" reinforces the theme of this work, while delivering a powerhouse rock performance filled with brilliant guitar leads and solos. Fans of roots rock, blues, and country marked by relentless energy and excitement will discover a new era of musical euphoria with "Songs From the Cradle of Rock 'N' Roll."

-Xavier and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Mosaic" by SpiceHouse (Rock Artist from New York(NY))

SpiceHouse's latest album, "Mosaic," a 20 song 2-CD set of multi-textured tunes ranging from folk-like rock to jazz to trip hop to ethereal soundscapes is, nevertheless, as accessible and tuneful as it is unique. Like similarly adventurous, genre-bending performers (if not as expansive), Over the Rhine or Shivaree, female lead singer, C.R. Keyser-Posner teams with Rick Eppedio on this sonic check-off of contemporary sounds with often riveting results. The CD opener, "Ties That Bind," grips with an understated melody – not unlike one of Annie Lennox's smarter tunes, and is followed by the freakbeat like "Surreal No. 9" (which, on Disc 2, is given a more exploratory, "extended jam" treatment - as are a couple other tracks); "Bleecker Street" has an unhurried and engaging straight-up jazz vibe, while title song, "Mosaic" uses world rhythms to build tension to a chorus release that's both tempered and sublime. Versatile and evocative as its title suggests, SpiceHouse's "Mosaic" CD is a well-conceived and equally well-delivered, mix of pop and electronic styles that's a fine addition to their catalog, and one that is sure to satisfy their fan base and discerning listeners just discovering this terrific outfit.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"A Few More Miles to Go" by Anne Price (Country/Folk Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

The accomplished folk singer, Anne Price, returns with her 4th CD, "A Few More Miles to Go," yet another wonderful collection of (mainly) traditional – if lesser exposed, potent folk songs. Opening with a cover of the late, under-appreciated contemporary folk stylist, Kate Wolf (an influence on Nanci Griffith), "The Trumpet Vine" serves as a terrific introduction for a varied set that reveals folk music's rich and evolving traditions. As a veteran and leading exponent of NYC's storied folk heritage, Price's mastery of the music's many styles is unquestioned. As such, her take on the mountain ballad-like "Way Over Yonder in the Minor Key," a Woodie Guthrie tune originating from the seminal 1998 album by Billy Bragg & Wilco ("Mermaid Avenue") is true and affecting, as is her a cappella rendition of the English ballad, "The Keys of Canterbury." Elsewhere, Price's mid-range voice (not unlike Griffith's instrument these days) is the perfect vehicle for songs of homespun humor such as "Chocolate," children's sing-alongs songs like "Yucky Bugs," or praises to nature's wonder with "Black Waters." But nowhere is the singer better represented than on her Iris DeMent-like rendition of the playful Janis Ian tune, "My Autobiography." Without a doubt, Anne Price's excellent CD, "A Few More Miles to Go," is a fine addition to the American folk music library; the pairing of a revered songbook with a treasured performer.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Paul Estro" by Paul Estro (Country Artist from New York(NY))

Paul Estro's self-titled debut forges a new and delightful territory in the country gospel music scene. Estro's raw and witty lyricism, coupled with his intimate Southern backwoods-style vocal intonations, fuses to create a palatable and innovative collection unlike its contemporaries. Throughout the 8-song CD, Estro relies on twangy guitar and female Gospel chorus - not to mention the occasional power chord - to deliver songs that extol the virtues of his faith, while skewering the trappings of the modern church. Moreover, the musicianship of this work is exceptional in technique and caters well to the emotions each song intends to invoke. Highlights include the country shuffle, "The Church of McWill," a Guitar Town-era, Steve Earle-like rocker called "Welcome Home," and the catchy "Pastor Martin is Coming." Fans of country gospel marked by clever satire will find a humorous solace in this memorable debut.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Time Is Fun When You're Having Flies" by Afterthem (Rock Artist from New Jersey(NJ))

What to make of the outrageous, quirky, mad, goofy, fantastic, funky, and unpredictable sounds of Afterthem? On their latest CD (the 8th since their '03 debut), the aptly titled "Time Is Fun When You're Having Flies," the 5-piece band serves up their brand of deranged psycho-savant-funk-jazz with all the subtlety of the proverbial flying mallet. The CD opener, "Misses Johnson" starts things appropriately enough with a discordant workout over a rhythm whose time signature would give Dave Brubeck a fit of rage. But like an aperitif before a grand feast, the fun is only just beginning. When not channeling the spirit – if not the voice – of mad genius Captain Beefheart (Don Van Vliet), the bulk of the 18 track album defies categorization or description. Part avant garde, part inspired lunacy, 2/3's part Tom Waits carnival barker's delirium and half sheer inscrutability, it's a veritable hall of sonic mirrors, casting strange and surreal sounds at the listener to confound, confuse, and - if patient enough, utterly floor. And while the singer warns, "just don't get too close" on the whacked-out funk jam, "Coolo Daddyo," my advice is – as to a boxer taking a pounding in the ring – get this album in a clinch and don't let go.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Extinct Is Forever" by Cody & Bj Productions (Kids Artist from Virginia(VA))

Entertaining and educational, "Extinct Is Forever," by the talented Cody & Bj Productions, is comprised of catchy lyrics and beats with pop style. What better way to teach young children about saving wildlife and rainforests than using the gift of music. Hear the sounds of the wild on "Enter the Rainforest/Song of the Rainforest" with the soft and gentle voice of poetry. There will be a smile and happy feeling when you hear "Beautiful Macaw" as it gently moves with tropical flair. Kids won't be able to keep from singing to "Let's Be Friends With The Animals" with its sing-along style and bouncy beats. Sincere and heartfelt lyrics shine on "Imagine" as the vocals gracefully flow over the tender melody. "Extinct Is Forever," is just the right album to promote awareness of the rainforests and saving wild animals to families/young children through these enlightening and charming songs.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"The Long Way Home" by ETx (Spiritual Artist from Connecticut (CT))

What do you get when you cross the genres of Gospel, blues, and rock? A delightful and warm spiritual album called "The Long Way Home," by the outstanding group ETx. Overflowing with heartfelt lyrics that are set to the tone of life's ups and downs, this group really brings it all together. You can feel the focused chemistry and dynamic balance between vocals and instruments. Thought-provoking lyrics on "Eternity" awakens the soul with uplifting and joyous emotions. Sweet rock guitar licks and classic organ tones complement the emotive lyrics on "Babylon." The laid-back and bluesy "I'm Sorry" and the upbeat rocking blues of "Thank You Jesus" will impress listeners with the versatility this group offers up. The overall mission of ETx is to spread inspirational words through the gift of music, and they have indeed accomplished this. Listeners will be inspired by Etx's "The Long Way Home," as it serves up enjoyable tunes in memorable style.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Pick Your Poison... Hip-Hop by Pedro el Poeta (Rap Artist from Florida(FL))

No stranger to the music scene, the talented Hip-Hop/Rap artist Pedro el Poeta sets in motion a compilation of beats and grooves with his latest release, titled "Pick Your Poison… Hip-Hop." Poeta's spoken words are poetically infused with colorful instrumentation blends which give a cohesive and consistent sound. His voice is strong and rich and he reveals his abilities as an easy flowing rhymer. The language voiced throughout this collection is both English and Spanish, as listeners will hear on "El Problema." Smooth and silky word play is heard on "What Better Time (feat. Manny)" with soft drums beats and synth sounds. Mysterious tones swirls around the harmonious poetry with style and ease on "Unheard" and "Para Mis Padres." "Pick Your Poison… Hip-Hop" by Pedro el Poeta is Hip-Hop/Rap with artistic poetry that pulses with upbeat energy and demonstrates the talents this performer has to offer.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Zoey and the Yok-Yok Man" by Alain Le Lait (Kids/Children Artist from Colorado (CO))

Singer/songwriter Alain Le Lait's latest release "Zoey and the Yok-Yok Man" is just the right musical entertainment for kids/family fun. Le Lait is quite a musical storyteller, as his amusing lyrics reflect the imaginary world of children's minds. His vocals are crisp and clean, and gleam with energy. The versatility in creating a fun-loving, kid-friendly environment is apparent in songs like "The Yok-Yok Man" and "Where is Zoey," which are catchy and vibrant. Young children show many types of fears but "I Don't Want to Go in the Garden" and "The Search Begins" has lyrics that help to overcome the obstacles of these frights. "Into the Hole" has a nice, easy rock 'n' roll style as the guitar performs a solid solo. Outstanding harmonies, well-balanced instruments, and original and creative melodies make this disc a hit. If you're looking for a delightful and charming musical adventure, look no further than Alain Le Lait's "Zoey and the Yok-Yok Man," as it is full of enchanting songs that will please families with young children.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Another Monday Night" by Swingadelic (Jazz Artist from New Jersey(NJ))

On "Another Monday Night," the latest CD from Swingadelic, the accomplished "little" big band from the NY area shines as an ensemble as much as they do a collection of prolific soloists, proving the timelessness of sparkling and proficient jazz in an era when it sometimes feels like the great American invention has been marginalized. Bristling with solos of melody and bravura – like the stratospheric tenor of "Dance With You" or the deft piano skills of the "Puttin' On the Ritz"-like "Early Morning Special" – this group resembles no less a band (though half the size) than the famed Count Basie Orchestra, investing each number with volleys of inspired but precise mayhem. Can they swing? Absolutely! Their take on Ellington's "The Gal From Joe's" is insistent and nuanced. Can they get down and dirty? The dynamics of the Basie-esque "Buddy's Thang" make that a resounding "yes." What about the blues? They've got it covered. "Busy Body Blues" and "Big Band Blues" are steeped in the language and phraseology of the idiom's best practitioners. They do vocals too: "Back In New York City" is an excellent original, praising the city that never sleeps with a treatment that is both classic and contemporary – or, if you will, timeless. The music and playing on Swingadelic's latest disc "Another Monday Night," will want you hearing more of this swinging jazz with the kind of flair, melody, and dynamics to stir the heart and move the feet.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Alesso" by Peter One (Country Artist from Delaware(DE))

Weaving world rhythms and melodies over varied soundscapes that delight as much as they surprise, Peter One's debut CD, "Alesso," is a rare and potent mix of African folk, Afro-beat, and Reggae music styles. Hailing from the Ivory Coast, Peter One's relaxed and engaging voice imbue his nine original songs with a warmth that cannot be imitated, revealing in sing-along-worthy tunes the universality inherent in the African folk tradition. "Ono On My Mind" has a melody as immediate and lasting as they come, "Yamussokro" uses horns and banjo combination in a completely unique – but utterly African way, and "Hozana" bounces along on an insistent reggae beat. Elsewhere, the traditional "Jukru Lov'," with its orchestral textures, is anthem-like while the title track, "Alesso," a song exhorting native empowerment, resonates with deep conviction. Whether singing in his native language or French ("Ono On My Mind" is the only song in English), Peter One's CD has the gift of universal resonance, a quality that makes "Alesso" an excellent primer of original African folk music.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Digital Museum" by Jay Jai (R&B Artist from California(CA))

"Digital Museum," the new 7-song digital-only release from Jay Jai, is a smooth and polished R&B collection showcasing a singer with all the seductive powers of the genre's great crooners. With beats and tunes as fresh as they are danceable, Jay Jai's contemporary R&B style (think Ne-Yo, The Dream, and Chris Brown) is a sexy mix that will open ears as surely as it turns heads. Exhorting his ladies with the skills of a true playa, "Slow Step" and "Dress You" virtually boil over with the singer's come-on, while "After Party," an infectious piece of nasty-as-we-wanna-be bravado - with a groove to match, is contemporary soul at its down and dirty best. The fine ballad, "Particular," has a solemn feel that shows Jay Jai's emotional range to fine effect, suggesting there is a lot more depth to be revealed as the singer continues to grow and mature as an artist. As perfect for the dance floor as it is for intimate moments, Jay Jai's "Digital Museum" is sure to please contemporary R&B/Urban Pop fans with its sweet, seductive, and brazenly insistent grooves.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Diaspora" by Steve Lieberman the Gangsta Rabbi (Rock Artist from Long Island, New York(NY))

Raw and untamed, Steve Lieberman the Gangsta Rabbi's "Diaspora" CD is a challenging blast of noise-rock incitement as discordant and disjointed as it is unsettling. Like the late Wesley Willis, Lieberman – a one man sonic wrecking crew, shuns form and convention over the course of 18 tracks that, instead, rely on shock and awe bursts of scorching bass licks and howls of reverent fury to trace a Judaic arc from pre-Biblical times to the 21st century. With a voice that is both tormented and impenetrable, Lieberman sings of his Jewish heritage and faith with an atonal swagger that matches his frenzied grooves beat for beat. And while the whole may add up to a strained musicality (which, as fans of Sonic Youth might attest, can be an art form in itself), there is no denying that the multi-instrumentalist's dissonance (check out the frequent and jarring Jethro Tull-like flute interpolations) is neither accidental nor unschooled. Certainly not for everyone, Steve Lieberman the Gangsta Rabbi's "Diaspora" CD is, nevertheless, genuine and purposed; to that extent, "Diaspora" is no less than a work of self-actualization.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Elliptical Motion" by Planetary Nights (Rock Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

Leading off with the jaw-dropping, adrenaline-charged rocker, "Road Trip," Planetary Nights sets the bar pretty high on their debut CD, "Elliptical Motion." What follows is a further 14-track exploration of rock styles fused by spot-on instincts and flashes of potent song craft. Built on a classic rock attitude of tuneful and engaging hooks, "Elliptical Motion" is jam packed with songs of raw intensity such as "Luck Runnin' Out," or "Release The Peace" and soulful balladry of "If Ever" or "Hide Away," as well as radio-ready fare defying the constraints of categorization "Don't Hold Back," and "Ebony Eyes." "Countin' On You" features some fine Southside Johnny-style harp licks, while "Starting Over" sways with a mean Clarence Clemons-style tenor sax part that's both gritty and urbane. Regardless of influences, though, Planetary Nights' "Elliptical Motion" is a cohesive and sparkling CD that succeeds because it blazes its own path of genuine fire and passion; a trail that starts and ends at the heart of rock 'n' roll.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Harp of the Heart" by Theresa Tremmel (Instrumental Artist from Indiana(IN))

In this day and age, our lives are rushed and hurried from the hectic/stress of everyday living. One needs to have a time of serenity to release the mind of the worries of the day. Theresa Tremmel has just the right antidote with her tranquil and beautiful disc "Harp of the Heart." This soothing collection of tranquility, featuring her stunning gift on the harp, will leave you with repose of peacefulness. Tremmel lets the listeners feel the effects of the calming harp, as it is clean and crisp, while she performs with strong, heartfelt emotions. The titled track, "Harp of the Heart," not only instills a calm ambiance but the strings adorn the melody with harmonious formation. As her fingers gracefully move across the strings on "Sand and Sea," the glissando (the gliding over the strings) feels like the waves of the sea gently rolling in to shore. "Gateway" and "Calm Vista" display a warm, inviting piano accompaniment which balances well with the melodious harp. If you need a little down time or just want to hear some soft and peaceful music, then "Harp of the Heart" will bring you to the place of rest and relaxation.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"500 Miles" by When Thunder Comes (Rock Artist from Washington DC)

A big part of the appeal of the New Wave movement back in the early 80's was the shift away from the bloated AOR sounds dominating airwaves to a simpler, '60's-oriented approach to songs and melody, albeit filtered through a new attitude - as well as a new sonic template, that would eventually shape much of the legacy of '80's rock. On "500 Miles," the latest CD from When Thunder Comes, New Wave is the order of the day in a 12-song collection that is, however, no less contemporary for all of its retro embellishments. On songs like "Good Ole Days" and the title track, "500 Miles," keenly balanced lead and harmony vocals are set off against tasteful synth incursions to flesh out rockers that are both catchy and provocative. Other tracks evoke different sounds of the New Wave era, like "See You In My Dreams," with its almost U2-like slice of ethereal pop, and "Endless Seas," reminiscent of classic Talking Heads. Throughout, though, the band plays with fire and precision, delivering up a set of infectious originals that mark When Thunder Comes' "500 Miles" CD as fitting in this era as it would have been 25 years ago.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Touch Me" by Heartscore (Rock Artist from Germany)

Heartscore's latest CD, "Touch Me," an inventive, adventurous, and – at times, bold, blend of modern rock styles, is both flamboyant and heady, a mixture as explosive as it is effective. Trading off Zappa-like song-shifts, sweeping dramatics worthy of Queen, or Progressive rock evocations reminiscent of Be-Bop Deluxe and /or Yes, "Touch Me" finds German multi-instrumentalist Dirk Radloff exploring rock's cerebral corners to produce a work that's both unusual and accessible. And while modernist and intellectual in its idiosyncrasy, tracks like "I'm Running" and the pretty, "You Are So Beautiful" attest to Heartscore's ability to neatly meld untamed and provocative arrangements with tunes that are fine and tuneful. Elsewhere, angular and abrasive torrents of sound make originals like "Never Leave the Highway" and lead song, "I Did It" into gems of propulsive dissonance. With Radloff's affected and stylized vocal delivery filling in the blanks, and smart synthesizer fills supplementing a guitar-bass-drum core, Heartscore's "Touch Me" CD is a triumph of substance and style sure to appeal to fans of progressive and original rock.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Insight" by Flora Ware (Jazz Artist from Canada)

Highly talented in the arts, singer/songwriter Flora Ware reaches well beyond the roots of jazz with her smooth vocal style on her latest album "Insight." Ware's voice is impressive with pure and polished clarity, yet there is a wonderful silky and sultry taste to it. She projects her voice with clean articulation only to be complemented by the dynamic and well-balanced instruments. Molded for a night club scene with a soft and subtle atmosphere, "You Don't Know What Love Is" is sweet and has sophisticated elegance. Feel the relaxed orchestrated production on "I've Never Been In Love Before" as the horns dance around Ware's graceful vocals and stunning lyrics. Flora Ware's "Insight" is an album that has the versatility to mix jazz with R&B and pop with progressive, modern touches. This treasure of exquisite jazz songs will have listeners wanting more of this gifted artist, and is an album well worth listening to.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Maximum Action" by Marc James (Pop Artist from Cleveland, Ohio (OH))

Marc James' 8-song CD, "Maximum Action," is a brilliant mix of David Bowie-meets-Bryan Ferry Euro-pop that is fit for a dance club as well as for a cabaret. Relying primarily on ambient, synth-infused soundscapes, James delivers wry, clever, and funny lyrics with an arch delivery invoking a dapper rogue completely unaware of his obviousness. The lead track, "The Perfect Stranger," captures this most effectively with a dry but melodic vocal in full seductive mode. "Hard Driving Music" rides a bouncing disco-like bass-line in a tuneful exercise that is pure schmaltz ("Do you want to swing, to dance, and sway to that hard driving rocking and rolling") - and is absolutely irresistible. On "Tribute to Marilyn" (yes, Monroe) James references Ray Davies' classic "Celluloid Heroes" with a straight-faced ingenuousness that is as subversive as it is catchy. Closing the album as strongly as it begins, "You Have A Secret" is built on a classic doo-**** chord progression that becomes transformed by a breathy, understated narrative (a la Leonard Cohen), and embellished by a solemn and perfect background chorus. In the end, Marc James' "Maximum Action" CD is that rare intriguing album by an artist that will win you over with his lush, melodic accessibility.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"These People Aren't You" by Kid Goat (Rock Artist from Washington DC)

Tom Petty once proudly sang about the southern accent where he came from. Well, despite Kid Goat's eastern (DC & PA) origins, that accent imbues everything about Kid Goat's excellent "These People Aren't You" CD, an exploration of roots and alternative country-leaning rock that adds up to Americana at its finest. With Matt Aquiline and Belen Pifel trading off lead singing duties, Kid Goat strikes a nifty balance over 13 guitar-driven songs that alternately rock, swing, and sway. A jangle guitar underpins the hook-filled opener, "Must Be Blind," as the duo harmonize in the best southern tradition, while on "From You," Pifel's delicate country-tinged voice, which is reminiscent of Tift Merritt's, is the perfect vehicle for an memorable, pretty tune. Elsewhere, Aquiline's voice calls to mind the breakthrough BoDeans debut LP, with songs like "Pennsylvania" and "Working World" capturing the rawness at the heart of great rock 'n' roll. All told, "These People Aren't You" is a solid debut CD for Kid Goat; one that knocks down borders in the service of terrific Americana rock.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Trying To Find My Way" by Fred Nash (Soul/Country Artist from California (CA))

Not that it matters, but the fact that Fred Nash's high tenor voice, which bears a resemblance to "I Can See Clearly Now" artist Johnny Nash, can't help but make a listener wonder if Fred is an offspring of the highly acclaimed former hit maker and impresario. That his CD-single, "Trying To Find My Way" has a similar soulful pop feel (albeit, without the reggae flavor), buoyed by an engaging, instantly captivating melody, only adds to the mystery. Regardless, "Trying To Find My Way," with its tasty, Steve Cropper-like guitar accompaniment accenting a spare, church-like arrangement, is a veritable throwback to an era when artists such as Nash, James, and Bobby were fashioning a crossover sound out of melding pop and soul sensibilities. Spiritual and meaningful, "Trying to Find My Way" is a fine debut CD-single from an artist who is likely to command attention not for his name, but for his escalating talent.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Mama Roots" by Jerry Harris (Reggae Artist from New York (NY))

With his deep, gruff, and oh-so-soulful voice, Jerry Harris's "Mama Roots" CD is a funky reggae album with roots as deep as the singer's own legacy. The prolific composer, a fixture in the NY reggae scene since the '70s, has once again delivered an album of potent rhythm and soul, a propulsive mix of Roots Reggae and Rocksteady that reflects the legion of key Jamaican talents he has worked with in 4 decades as a leading and important Reggae artist. Highlights include "Just a Little Love We Need" and the topical "Global Warming," both owing a debt to Bob Marley-influenced grooves, but on "Mama" he shines with a Jimmy Cliff-like pop sensibility that transcends mere reggae-style labels. On "Mama Roots" Harris is once again backed by a stellar rhythm section, typically concise guitar fills, affecting horn parts, and backing vocals from a female chorus that is integral and subtle. Lyrically, there is a '70's-centric affirmative and positive social relevance running through all his songs as he alternately exhorts, cajoles, and pleads for the kind of world that seemed nearer to realization in those more innocent times. Nevertheless, there is nothing out of date about either Jerry Harris' message or the timeless brand of reggae he so effortlessly puts forth. Jerry Harris' "Mama Roots" CD continues an ageless tradition of intoxicating Reggae/Rocksteady music.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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