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EP: DUSK by ANNIE AND THE JAYS

Cherine Abulwafa
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EP: DUSK by ANNIE AND THE JAYS

Annie and the Jays’ EP DUSK is a masterful exploration of love, lust, insecurity, and the emotional turbulence that comes when we begin to lose ourselves in these feelings. With confessional lyrics, nostalgic indie rock melodies, and irresistibly catchy hooks, the band delivers a collection of tracks that tug at the heartstrings while offering moments of hope and empowerment.

The EP opens with “If You Wanted To You Would”, a dreamy, wistful anthem that perfectly captures the spark of attraction paired with the angst of uncertainty. Its summery, road-trip vibe feels like the soundtrack to those fleeting moments of magic and anticipation.

“Too Shallow” takes a different tone—raw, cathartic, and empowering. Born from a moment of vulnerability at the piano, it channels heartbreak into a triumphant post-breakup anthem. The song has become a fan favorite during live performances, resonating deeply with its emotional honesty.

“Shipwrecked” is poignant and deeply moving, diving into the grieving process at the end of a relationship. It’s a delicate balance between holding on and letting go, creating a sonic portrait of healing and self-reflection.

The closing track, “Drifting Out”, embodies the EP’s core theme. It’s a heartfelt ode to those who feel themselves slipping into sadness, offering a reminder that brighter days lie ahead. Its message is simple yet profound: even in our darkest moments, the next sunrise is worth waiting for.

Annie and the Jays are not just storytellers but architects of connection. Their music transcends the personal, creating a universal space where listeners can see themselves. With standout live performances at venues like King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut and sold-out gigs at the Voodoo Rooms, the band has quickly established themselves as one to watch.

In DUSK, Annie and the Jays have crafted a beautiful blend of truth, vulnerability, hope, and acceptance – such a beautiful blend of raw emotions and vulnerable truth.

EP: Power Hug by Trash Pals

Cherine Abulwafa
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EP: Power Hug by Trash Pals

In a world increasingly weighed down by cynicism and digital chaos, Trash Pals’ Power Hug offers a much-needed moment of warmth and connection. This six-song EP is a heartfelt celebration of love in all its forms: self-love, platonic love, and romantic love crafted with care, creativity, and an irresistible groove. Conor Rayne and Gabe Schnider, the duo behind Trash Pals, have poured their hearts into this project, blending acoustic indie rock with modern production and groove-driven beats. The result is a listening experience that feels warm and intimate, handcrafted yet polished. Recorded in their Venice Beach studio, The Factory, Power Hug reflects their DIY ethos and their commitment to creating music that feels personal in an increasingly digitized world.

Each track on Power Hug tells a story, complete and vivid on its own, yet seamlessly connected to the EP’s larger themes of love. For example, “All This Time” is a tender exploration of self-acceptance and solitude, brought to life with raw, live-recorded imperfections and a stunning improvised guitar solo. On the other end of the spectrum, “The Spaceman” bursts with energy, using layered percussion to mirror the relatively overstimulated chaos it seeks to transcend. This thematic and sonic diversity makes Power Hug an album for all occasions; whether you’re dancing with friends, road-tripping under the sun, or enjoying a quiet evening at home.

Rayne and Schnider’s partnership is the heart of Trash Pals, forged over years of collaboration that began when they met at jazz camp as teenagers. Influenced by a wide range of artists, from Joni Mitchell to Tame Impala and The Spinners, they’ve crafted a sound they call “feel-good indie rock with fat beats.” That playful, uplifting energy permeates every note of Power Hug. Beyond the music itself, the EP’s production reflects the duo’s dedication to authenticity. Every detail, from recording and mixing to the artwork, was handled by the Pals themselves, emphasizing their belief in the value of handmade artistry.

It can be easily said that Power Hug is a refuge, a reminder of the strength, patience, and grace it takes to strip-off the façade of modernity, and to love in today’s modern world. It is almost a rebellious act. Trash Pals have created a record that feels like a friend – one that understands, uplifts, and stays with you long after the music stops. So, whether you’re in need of comfort, joy, or simply a reason to smile, let Power Hug wrap you up and remind you that love could be slow, warm, gentle, and should be light and genuine; and most importantly, everyone deserves it..

Sinking by WOTTS

Cherine Abulwafa
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Sinking by WOTTS

Canadian indie pop duo Wotts wraps up 2024 with “sinking,” a bold and exhilarating track that showcases their knack for blending new and nostalgic influences. Drawing inspiration from The Killers’ Sam’s Town and MGMT’s Loss of Life, the song bursts with energy, proving the duo’s love for experimentation while staying true to their pop-forward identity.

In contrast to the stripped-back vibe of their earlier single, “Boy + Girl,” “sinking” goes all in. Layers of lush orchestration, shimmering guitars, soaring violins, and thunderous drums create a uniquely rich maximalist soundscape. What started as a humble acoustic strum, quickly evolved into a euphoric journey that feels both expansive and strikingly cohesive.

Jayem (vocals, producer, and multi-instrumentalist) and Ricky 100 (bass and guitar) thrive on spontaneity in their creative process. As Jayem explains, “We never really know where a song is going until very late in the process.” Ricky adds, “Even when we try new things, we always aim to stay true to our sound.” This approach keeps their music fresh, surprising, and endlessly replayable.

With “sinking,” Wotts continues their evolution from hip-hop beginnings to genre-fluid brilliance, blending indie pop, rock, and alternative influences with effortless flair. Looking ahead to 2025, the duo hints at even bolder creative swings, promising new sonic adventures while holding tight to their experimental roots.

If “sinking” is anything to go by, Wotts is without a doubt on the right track to make their mark as one of indie pop’s most exciting innovators. We are eagerly waiting and excited for what’s coming next!

Rain by Allegra

Moataz Gwaily
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Rain by Allegra

The last cut on Allegra’s latest EP is a soulful piece of melancholic synth pop that utilizes the artist’s sultry and subdued vocals that always drip with charisma, mixing them with dark synth rhythms and potent melodies for an engaging and bittersweet song about the final stages of grieving over a break-up.

Based in London, Allegra is the stage name of Allegra Von Opel. Singer and songwriter, heralded as one of the UK’s standout rising talents in the dance scene since her breakout collaboration with Tiësto last year on a remix of her track ‘Round & Round’, Allegra’s latest EP Unsent Love Letters Vol. 1 displays her as a capable artist with a capacity for unique conceptual work right alongside the pop appeal of her songs and her voice.

‘Rain’ is the last song on the EP. With each song playing out as an unsent love letter with a different storyline, ‘Rain’ is a song about the newfound freedom and embracing life that is found at the last stages of grieving over a break-up. The song’s energetic arrangement is defined by a straightforward trap groove and a litany of sputtering synth lines that are ominous in character, soulful in composition, and energizing in attitude. The song’s mid-tempo rhythm and Allegra’s soft spoken delivery make for an easy listen that’s laced with darkness and is very easy on the senses.

The fantastic production by Timothy Gosden is rich and punchy, and the entertaining visualizer with its lush coloring and editing are the two cherries on top of this rather easy to love cake. Allegra’s ‘Rain’ continues to showcase a superb musical talent that’s continuing to grow.

EP: Kites by Last Frozen Sound

Mena Ezzat
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EP: Kites by Last Frozen Sound

The craft of popular music never fails to amaze me, and I believe it resonates with many others as well. A great example of this is Last Frozen Sound’s latest EP, “Kites.” Allow me to elaborate further below.

Typically, I gravitate towards music that incorporates diverse elements and inspirations. Stephen Fisher, the creative force behind Last Frozen Sound, is an accomplished artist who has been composing since the mid-70s. Yes, you read that right—the golden era we all cherish. While listening to ‘Kites,’ I was genuinely impressed; the 4-track EP beautifully blends the essence of the past with a modern twist. His powerful and emotive vocals immediately set the mood from the very first line.

The music will effortlessly capture your attention, revealing the skill of a seasoned musician. You might wonder why this is the case. As you listen, you’ll discern a blend of thoughtfully crafted elements from pop, folk, and soul. Regarding the lyrics, there’s a deeper writing style evident as he expresses, “Lyrically, I have been a great fan of Roddy Frame, Suede, Elvis Costello, Bowie, Ricky Lee Jones, and the beat poets.”

The EP showcases a lineup of skilled and professional musicians, featuring John Libert on guitar and bass, Kevin Reed on drums, and vocals by James Warr. It also includes contributions from Leticia Zhan (backing vocals), Tom Skailes (saxophone), and Peter Martin (trumpet and flugelhorn). This project is enriched by diverse soundscapes filled with shimmering guitar melodies, syncopated bass lines, and alternative drum patterns, occasionally venturing into jazz while also lightly embracing pop, soul, and folk influences.

“When the early universe consisted of very hot particles the alternating gravity and repelling forces created sound waves. As the universe cooled the waves ceased and so did their traces” – the Last Frozen Sound. The album “Haywire” was released in early 2024, followed by the EP “Kites” later that year. “A Ship and a Broken Heart” will be re-released in early 2025, and earlier albums from the band Colander are planned for release throughout 2025.

Album: Could Have Been by The New Citizen Kane

Cherine Abulwafa
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Album: Could Have Been by The New Citizen Kane

YOU’LL LISTEN, DANCE, SMILE, AND REFLECT ALL IN ONE DEEP HOUSE ALBUM!

With his latest EP, Could Have Been, The New Citizen Kane takes us on a journey that’s as introspective as it is danceable. Moving away from the shimmering vibes of his summer hit Endless Summer Serenade, Kane dives deeper into the raw, emotional terrain of love, loss, and nostalgia, crafting an EP that masterfully blends indie-pop, electronic beats, and the wistful echoes of 80s new wave.

The title track, Could Have Been, opens the EP with a bittersweet melody and evocative lyrics: “Do you think about it? Do you think about me?” Kane’s heartfelt delivery pulls you into the universal longing of wondering about the paths not taken. It’s a song that doesn’t just sit with you, it lingers in your soul.

Then comes Forget The World, a warm, pulsating track that offers an irresistible escape. Its catchy hooks and lush instrumentation feel like a joyful sigh of relief, capturing the beauty of living in the moment. Whether you’re lost in its rich electronic beats or inspired by its lyrics to seize the day, this song is pure euphoria.

The EP’s most daring moment comes with Kane’s electrifying cover of Coldplay’s Talk. Reimagined as a deep house anthem, the track pulses with energy, bringing the emotional depth of the original into a neon-lit dance floor glow. It’s bold, joyful, and utterly unforgettable.

Other standouts include Tonight, Maybe, a hopeful exploration of uncertainty, and Chasing the Past, a haunting reflection on fading connections, complete with bold vocal effects that amplify its emotional punch. These tracks showcase Kane’s unparalleled ability to weave relatable stories into mesmerizing soundscapes.

Could Have Been is an emotional and sonic journey that underscores Kane’s evolution as an artist. It’s also a prelude to his highly anticipated 2025 album, Morpheus, promising even more introspection and dreamlike soundscapes.

For fans of deep house, indie-pop, or anyone who loves music that makes you feel, Could Have Been is unmissable. This is the artist at his most vulnerable, dynamic, and creative state, it’s just a true testament to his artistry. Needless to say, Could Have Been absolutely deserves a spot on your playlists!

 

Signs Of Yesterday by Dominick Keath

Moataz Gwaily
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Signs Of Yesterday by Dominick Keath

Dominick Keath is back with confidence and style with his latest single of 2024, after years and years of indefinite hiatus. ‘Signs Of Yesterday’ is anthemic and infectious. A rocker with electronic tinges and a larger-than-life composition, it is a song that demands attention and keeps it firmly in place. 

Based in Malmo, Sweden, Dominick Keath is a musician who started his career in the early nineties with several bands before a long hiatus took him away from the scene for a lengthy time before he decided to regroup and reestablish a musical foothold, starting in 2024. With 3 singles to date, Keath is not showing signs of slowing down.

With the sweet story Keath shared about the inception of ‘Signs Of Yesterday’ and the inspiration behind it, having dreamt it up in a deeply transformative period in his life living in the Maltese capital Valletta and slowly realizing where he belongs and what he belongs to, Keath soon afterwards moved back to Sweden and restarted his musical career. ‘Signs Of Yesterday’ is bustling with throbbing synths and deep, impactful groove. The electro-rock stunner is also lush with grandiose chord sequences and a rich string arrangement. Keath’s charismatic voice and his inspiring lyrics carry the song’s empowering arrangement forward with grace and style. A colorful song with an exceptionally tight groove that’s deeply engaging.

‘Signs Of Yesterday’ might be my favorite of Keath’s singles so far. A cohesive song that manages to meld heavily fragmented synth stabs together with an exceptional drum part and an eye-opening composition, ‘Signs Of Yesterday’ is a brilliantly written song.

Album Review: “Pictures in Time” by Pete Price

Michael Stover
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Album Review: “Pictures in Time” by Pete Price

Pete Price‘s second solo album, *Pictures in Time*, is a finely crafted exploration of the human condition, set against a lush Americana backdrop. Featuring a talented supporting band that blends acoustic and electric elements seamlessly, the album navigates themes of love, growth, resilience, and introspection with a maturity and warmth that reflect Price’s decades-long career.


Album Highlights
1. “House of Mirrors”
As the album’s lead single, this track exemplifies Price’s ability to blend deeply personal lyricism with universal themes. Its gentle, reflective tone is carried by rich instrumentation.

2. “Better Angels”
A story-song in the tradition of Americana greats, this track weaves a compelling narrative of love, doubt, and inner conflict. The instrumentation is particularly evocative, with subtle keyboard flourishes by Jeff Tutt adding depth.

3. “This Time”
Written in a creative burst, “This Time” captures the promise of reinvention and self-discovery. Allen Seals’ mandolin adds a bright, hopeful texture, complementing Price’s soulful delivery.

Production & Sound
Recorded at Triangle Road Studio and mastered by Sean Haney, the album’s production is clean and warm, allowing each instrument to shine while keeping Price’s vocals at the forefront. The interplay of acoustic guitar, violin, mandolin, and electric elements creates a rich sonic palette, anchored by the steady rhythm section of Steve Phelps (drums) and Matt Scholp (bass).

Themes and Lyrical Depth
Each track on “Pictures in Time” unfolds as part of a life’s journey, moving from youthful struggles (“House of Mirrors”) to reconciliatory maturity (“Box of Stones”) and contemplative joy (“Long Lake”). Price’s songwriting is heartfelt and unpretentious, capturing moments of vulnerability and triumph with authenticity.

-“Box of Stones” delivers a poignant message about forgiveness and healing, while its metaphorical lyrics resonate universally.
– “Hellen and Grace” explores the duality of human nature through a cleverly constructed narrative, balancing wildness and stability.
– “Till the Wheels Fall Off” and “The Road Ahead” offer reflective yet invigorating conclusions, highlighting resilience and the ongoing quest for meaning.

Band Chemistry
The Price Brothers Band is more than a supporting act; their musicianship elevates the album. Each member contributes something distinct, from Casey Davis’ expressive electric guitar work to Allen Seals’ mandolin on “This Time.” The synergy between players enhances the album’s storytelling, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience.

Critical Reception
Building on the success of *Department of the Interior* (2022), this album feels like a natural evolution. Critics and fans alike will appreciate the depth of *Pictures in Time*, which is likely to find a home alongside works by Neil Young, Dan Fogelberg, and other stalwarts of the Americana tradition.

Overall Rating
★★★★☆ (4/5)
*Pictures in Time* is a deeply rewarding album that showcases Pete Price’s lyrical and musical maturity. While it doesn’t drastically reinvent the wheel of Americana, it refines and elevates the genre with heart, craftsmanship, and a sense of lived experience. Fans of roots music and introspective songwriting should give it a spin.

-Patty O’Brien

Music Review: “Here Comes Tomorrow” by Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy

Michael Stover
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Music Review: “Here Comes Tomorrow” by Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy

Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy (VZHM) have debuted their collective sound with the uplifting single *Here Comes Tomorrow*, an acoustic tapestry that heralds both hope and renewal. Written by Pittsburgh songwriter Thomas Balistreri and brought to life by the group’s exceptional harmony-driven dynamics, the track sets the tone for their forthcoming debut album Four Ever.

From the opening chords, *Here Comes Tomorrow* immediately feels timeless, channeling the spirit of folk-rock titans like Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, while forging its own path with contemporary warmth. Cherylann Hawk’s lead vocal is the heart of the song: earthy and emotive, her delivery captures both the weariness of the lyrics’ reflection on stagnation and the radiant optimism of its refrain.

The song’s arrangement is a masterclass in acoustic synergy. Bob Zigerelli’s intricate guitar work pairs seamlessly with Kevin McCarthy’s evocative melodies, creating a bed of sound that is at once gentle and dynamic. John Vento’s rich, textured voice rounds out the harmonies, adding depth to the song’s refrain:

“Here comes tomorrow / And the light of a brand new day / Here comes tomorrow / Anything can go our way.”

Recorded at Maplewood Studio in Ambridge, PA, with production by David Granati, the track carries a crisp, organic sound that enhances its heartfelt message. The subtle percussion and nuanced vocal layering add to the intimacy of the listening experience, while Brian Foraker’s mastering ensures a polished finish that radiates warmth.

Lyrical Themes and Impact

The lyrics are universal yet deeply personal, speaking to the inevitability of change and the potential for new beginnings. Balistreri’s writing is straightforward but poignant, offering both solace and encouragement. It’s the kind of track that feels like a companion during quiet reflection or a burst of inspiration at dawn.

Context Within Four Ever

As the opening track of Four Ever, Here Comes Tomorrow sets a high bar. It encapsulates the group’s ethos: a celebration of storytelling through rich harmonies and acoustic craftsmanship. For a debut, it’s a bold and inviting statement, promising that VZHM are here to provide both comfort and connection through their music.

Standout Elements

– Cherylann Hawk’s Lead Vocals: A performance that is both vulnerable and commanding, she anchors the song’s emotional core.
– Harmonies: The interplay between the voices of Hawk, Zigerelli, McCarthy, and Vento is the essence of VZHM’s appeal.
– Instrumental Texture: Layers of acoustic guitar weave a melodic fabric that complements the song’s themes of transformation.

Critical Reception

While the single is still fresh, it has already garnered praise for its heartfelt execution and timeless feel. Fans of acoustic-driven storytelling and harmony-laden arrangements will find much to love. The production, guided by Granati’s expertise, is an undeniable strength, ensuring the song’s emotional resonance shines through.

Recommended Tracks for Fans of Similar Vibes

If Here Comes Tomorrow speaks to your soul, dive into:
– Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young – “Helplessly Hoping”
– Tracy Chapman – “New Beginning”
– Fleetwood Mac – “Landslide”

Final Thoughts

Here Comes Tomorrow is more than a song—it’s a promise of what Vento, Ziggy, Hawk & McCarthy are poised to offer the folk-acoustic scene. It’s a beacon of hope and harmony in a world that often craves just that. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Pittsburgh’s vibrant music scene or new to the group’s offerings, this track is an essential listen.

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)

In the Moonlight by Romain Gutsy

Moataz Gwaily
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In the Moonlight by Romain Gutsy

Romain Gutsy’s soulful and sweet pop ballads never fail to capture the heart with their serene and simple beauty. A deeply passionate performer, Gutsy’s approach is timelessly elegant, and his songs are always breaths of fresh air.

Romain Gutsy is a French singer and songwriter based in Paris. ‘In The Moonlight’ is the title of the second of his singles of 2024, and it is deeply touching, an arresting composition, warm, sweet, delightful, and musically rich. Born out of a dream, ‘In the Moonlight’ is a collection of romance cliches that are artfully collaged, surrounded by pretty music, a fantastic voice, and an unforgettable arrangement, and we are all for it.

‘In the Moonlight’ is driven forward by its timeless combination of a waltz highlighted by an acoustic guitar arpeggio. Gutsy’s vocals are gorgeous. Restrained and gritty, his lowest notes hit hard and are absolutely precious. The lyrics are sweet and are mirrored by an arrangement that gracefully expands like a chest taking a deep breath. Introducing one layer after another of differing textures, what begins with a glistening acoustic guitar is soon joined by a litany of sweet piano lines, organs, and an intricate percussion part that is deceptively simple and minimal for the massive role they play in progressing the song.

Gutsy’s return has been amazing thus far. A passionate and gifted song maker, it is always a nice day when I get the chance to write about a new song of his.

 

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