Latest christian music:
Ed Kowalczyk, singer and frontman for the band Live, has announced a brief solo acoustic tour that will stop Oct. 23 at The Sherman Theater in Stroudsburg with Art Alexakis of Everclear and Leigh Nash of Sixpence None the Richer.
The limited jaunt will premiere Kowalczyk’s new touring project, Open Wings-Broken Strings, in advance of an expected solo album on which he said on his blog last month that he would start studio work in September.
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Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Christian music news: Rockers from Live, Everclear and Sixpence None the Richer heading to Morristown
Latest christian music:
This is a rare opportunity to hear stripped-down versions of great '90s rock songs.
As Kowalczyk explains: "As a songwriter and a singer in a successful rock band, I have had the good fortune of being surrounded by incredible musicians, lots of wonderful production on both record and onstage and plenty of volume!"
"But did you know that the story of your favorite songs often originates in a much different environment? Open Wings-Broken Strings is an opportunity for you to get to the heart of your favorite artists and their songs in a unique and compelling way. . ."
"Stripped down, intimate and acoustic, you'll hear the strings on the guitar vibrate and buzz, the vocal chords hum and pulsate as the songs you love come to life like you never knew they could," Kowalczyk added. "In this intimate environment, the rock star steps out from behind the layers of decibel and drama to greet you with the essence, the story, and the song. Quiet just might be the new loud."
Source
This is a rare opportunity to hear stripped-down versions of great '90s rock songs.
As Kowalczyk explains: "As a songwriter and a singer in a successful rock band, I have had the good fortune of being surrounded by incredible musicians, lots of wonderful production on both record and onstage and plenty of volume!"
"But did you know that the story of your favorite songs often originates in a much different environment? Open Wings-Broken Strings is an opportunity for you to get to the heart of your favorite artists and their songs in a unique and compelling way. . ."
"Stripped down, intimate and acoustic, you'll hear the strings on the guitar vibrate and buzz, the vocal chords hum and pulsate as the songs you love come to life like you never knew they could," Kowalczyk added. "In this intimate environment, the rock star steps out from behind the layers of decibel and drama to greet you with the essence, the story, and the song. Quiet just might be the new loud."
Source
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence Cover The La's
Latest christian music: Texas pop-musicians Sixpence None The Richer will release a cover of the La's "There She Goes" as their next single. This tune was a signature of the early-'90s Liverpool, England, pop group, but it is a live staple of Sixpence's sets.Sixpence None The Richer, best known for the hit song "Kiss Me," decided to enter the studio recently and record "There She Goes" after hearing their version played on radio stations, according to a band spokesperson. The original version is found on the self-titled 1990 album by the La's.
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Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence Offer Song To Fans Who Bought LP's First Pressing
Latest christian music: Pop act Sixpence None the Richer are offering a free copy of "There She Goes" to fans who purchased their self-titled album prior to the inclusion of the single. Fans are instructed to send a photocopy of the original album's back cover Nashville label, Squint Entertainment. The band reissued the album earlier this year to include "There She Goes," originally recorded by the La's in 1988.
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Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence Take Dove Awards Group Of Year
Latest christian music: After being locked out of the Gospel Music Association's Dove Awards in 1999 because they were too secular, Sixpence None the Richer not only returned this year, they took Group of the YearR&B/gospel group Anointed,meanwhile, took home two awards of their own.
The awards were handed out Thursday, in a ceremony at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry. The award's syndicated broadcast is being shown in various markets during the next few weeks. (For stations and times, see the official Web site, www.doveawards.com.) Sixpence None the Richer also performed "Melody of You," a single from their upcoming album, at the show, according to the show's publicist.
Sixpence None the Richer had previously won the Dove Award for Best Alternative/Modern Rock Album, in 1996, for their release The Beautiful Mess. But their 1999 radio hit, "Kiss Me" (RealAudio excerpt), was disqualified from consideration from the 1999 awards because it didn't meet the Gospel Music Association's criteria for a Christian song.
Members of the group and representatives from the Gospel Music Association were unavailable for comment.
"Kiss Me" is on the group's eponymous fourth album, the first on which it aimed for an audience beyond just Christian-music fans. The song got a boost when it was featured in the TV show "Dawson's Creek" in 1998. It also appeared on the soundtrack of the 1999 film "She's All That."
The GMA excluded the song from consideration for the 1999 Dove Awards based on newly implemented criteria designed to ensure that nominated songs and groups had explicitly Christian content. Those criteria were relaxed for this year's awards.
Sixpence None the Richer are finishing up their next album in Nashville, according to the band's official Web site.
The R&B vocal group Anointed's self-titled fourth album took the Dove Award for Contemporary Album of the Year, while the single "Anything Is Possible" won the award for Urban Song of the Year.
Source
The awards were handed out Thursday, in a ceremony at Nashville's Grand Ole Opry. The award's syndicated broadcast is being shown in various markets during the next few weeks. (For stations and times, see the official Web site, www.doveawards.com.) Sixpence None the Richer also performed "Melody of You," a single from their upcoming album, at the show, according to the show's publicist.
Sixpence None the Richer had previously won the Dove Award for Best Alternative/Modern Rock Album, in 1996, for their release The Beautiful Mess. But their 1999 radio hit, "Kiss Me" (RealAudio excerpt), was disqualified from consideration from the 1999 awards because it didn't meet the Gospel Music Association's criteria for a Christian song.
Members of the group and representatives from the Gospel Music Association were unavailable for comment.
"Kiss Me" is on the group's eponymous fourth album, the first on which it aimed for an audience beyond just Christian-music fans. The song got a boost when it was featured in the TV show "Dawson's Creek" in 1998. It also appeared on the soundtrack of the 1999 film "She's All That."
The GMA excluded the song from consideration for the 1999 Dove Awards based on newly implemented criteria designed to ensure that nominated songs and groups had explicitly Christian content. Those criteria were relaxed for this year's awards.
Sixpence None the Richer are finishing up their next album in Nashville, according to the band's official Web site.
The R&B vocal group Anointed's self-titled fourth album took the Dove Award for Contemporary Album of the Year, while the single "Anything Is Possible" won the award for Urban Song of the Year.
Source
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence None the Richer Finish Follow-Up to '97 Breakthrough
Latest christian music: Sixpence None the Richer have finished recording the long-awaited follow-up to their eponymous 1997 breakthrough album and will release it in the fall.
The as-yet-untitled record was produced by Paul Fox (Phish, Semisonic) and features string
arrangements by Beck's father, David Campbell, a spokesperson for the group said.
While the album's track listing is still being finalized, fans can expect to hear the live favorites "Dizzy" and "Melody of You."
Sixpence None the Richer formed in Austin during the early '90s but didn't gain national attention until their single "Kiss Me" was featured prominently in the teen flick She's All That and on the TV show Dawson's Creek. It climbed to the top of the charts in 1999, two years after its release on the group's third album.
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The as-yet-untitled record was produced by Paul Fox (Phish, Semisonic) and features string
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While the album's track listing is still being finalized, fans can expect to hear the live favorites "Dizzy" and "Melody of You."
Sixpence None the Richer formed in Austin during the early '90s but didn't gain national attention until their single "Kiss Me" was featured prominently in the teen flick She's All That and on the TV show Dawson's Creek. It climbed to the top of the charts in 1999, two years after its release on the group's third album.
Source
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
Christian music news: Rockers from Live, Everclear and Sixpence None the Richer heading to Morristown
Latest christian music:
It's a trip back to the alternative rock boom of the 1990s. . . with a lighter sound.
The lead singers from three of the '90s most popular groups -- Eddie Kowalczyk of Live ("I Alone"), Art Alexakis from Everclear ("Wonderful") and Leigh Nash of Sixpence None the Richer ("Kiss Me") -- are teaming up for an acoustic performance on Saturday, Oct. 24, at the Community Theatre at Mayo Center for the Performing Arts in Morristown.
The show, titled "Open Wings, Broken Strings," starts at 8 p.m.
Tickets range from $27 to $57 and go on sale to the public on Friday, Aug. 14, at 9 a.m. online and 10 a.m. at the Community Theatre box office and by phone. (see info below)
This is a rare opportunity to hear stripped-down versions of great '90s rock songs.
As Kowalczyk explains: "As a songwriter and a singer in a successful rock band, I have had the good fortune of being surrounded by incredible musicians, lots of wonderful production on both record and onstage and plenty of volume!"
"But did you know that the story of your favorite songs often originates in a much different environment? Open Wings-Broken Strings is an opportunity for you to get to the heart of your favorite artists and their songs in a unique and compelling way. . ."
"Stripped down, intimate and acoustic, you'll hear the strings on the guitar vibrate and buzz, the vocal chords hum and pulsate as the songs you love come to life like you never knew they could," Kowalczyk added. "In this intimate environment, the rock star steps out from behind the layers of decibel and drama to greet you with the essence, the story, and the song. Quiet just might be the new loud."
Community Theatre box office: 100 South St., Morristown
Box office phone: (973) 539-8008
Online tickets: http://www.mayoarts.org/online.htm
Christian Music News Source
Monday, August 17, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence None the Richer The Dawn of Grace,
Latest christian music: Sixpence None the Richer takes their rightful place alongside The Shins for easy listening indie pop with this must-have seasonal release The Dawn of Grace. Overshadowing everything I've heard to this point in the young season, this eminently loveable release is anchored by the huggable vocals of spritely Leigh Nash, who glides through this 10-song set of infectious pop arrangements like an elfen princess. I'm a sucker for Nash's white shoes brand of indie pop, so maybe she would have had me at "hello", regardless. But the product is very high-quality, and I don't see how it can help but earn high praise from the earnest and the ironic alike.
With brilliant new arrangements of traditionals (such as the wonderful Riu, Riu, Chiu!) and ambitious interpretations of pop standards (Joni Mitchell's dark classicRiver, for example, which is almost a bridge too far for the chipper Ms. Nash),The Dawn of Grace would already have enough fire power to blow most other new releases off the scene. But Sixpence NTR takes it a step further by including two (apparently--my advance copy does not offer much in the way of liner notes) new songs, The Last Christmas Without You and Christmas for Two, either one of which could easily show up when the credits roll on the Christmas episode ofFriday Night Lights or even Ugly Betty.
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With brilliant new arrangements of traditionals (such as the wonderful Riu, Riu, Chiu!) and ambitious interpretations of pop standards (Joni Mitchell's dark classicRiver, for example, which is almost a bridge too far for the chipper Ms. Nash),The Dawn of Grace would already have enough fire power to blow most other new releases off the scene. But Sixpence NTR takes it a step further by including two (apparently--my advance copy does not offer much in the way of liner notes) new songs, The Last Christmas Without You and Christmas for Two, either one of which could easily show up when the credits roll on the Christmas episode ofFriday Night Lights or even Ugly Betty.
Source
Monday, August 10, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence's Nash Goes Solo
Latest christian music: It's been nearly eight years since Sixpence None the Richer singer Leigh Nash's winsome vocals invaded radios with the band's summer staple and teen-flick fave "Kiss Me." In that time, Nash has garnered a wealth of material from which to draw inspiration: She and her mates amicably called it quits in 2004, and Nash gave birth to her first and only child, Henry, the same year. These radical shifts fueled the singer's solo debut, due this summer."It's definitely been the period of the most change of my life," says Nash. "It's a really rich, emotional time for me. Plenty of inspiration with my first child. And my husband and I have been married for ten years now, so of course there's a lot of relationship stuff to write about. [The album] was good timing."
Produced by Pierre Marchand (Sarah McLachlan) and currently in the mixing stage, the as-yet-untitled album was recorded throughout the fall in Canada, and is suffused with the mature pop in the vein of Sixpence. Among the new tracks are "Between the Lines," "Nervous in the Light of Dawn" and the delicate ballad "Along the Wall," which Nash says is her favorite.
"That's the first song that [Pierre and I] wrote together when we first met," she says. "I like just the mood of it. It's very beautiful, piano-based, and I tend to like songs like that."
Nash entered the music business in her teens after meeting guitarist Matt Slocum at a church retreat in Austin. The two, initially rounded out by bassist T.J. Behling, formed the Christian rock outfit Sixpence None the Richer (the name taken from C.S. Lewis'Mere Christianity) and released four albums. But following the release of 2002's Divine Discontent, which suffered lengthy label tangles before hitting shelves, both Slocum and Nash decided to disband.
"Matt and I had basically been thinking the same thing during the months leading up to the breakup," she says. "I had heard that he didn't want to make another record, so I called him and said, 'If you don't want to make the record, and I don't, then what are we doing?' It was a pretty easy conversation to have. We were both just so tired. We are still friends."
In spite of her thirteen years with Sixpence, Nash isn't a stranger to solo outings. She recorded the song "Need to Be Next to You" for the soundtrack to the 2000 romantic film Bounce, and she made guest appearances on albums by surf-guitar rockers Los Straightjackets and electro-dance outfit Delerium. But Nash is thrilled to finally be releasing her first solo effort. "I'm already excited about making another record," she says. "Just the exploration of me as a writer has been an unbelievable experience, and I think it's just the beginning."
In the meantime, Nash is also throwing her weight behind Movement Nashville, a small group of musicians -- including AutoVaughn, Jeremy Lister and Bang Bang Bang -- dedicated to promoting the diversity of the city's music scene. "Of course, most people think of country music," she says of Nashville, where she also resides. "But there is a really vibrant, thriving rock scene. It's unbelievable, but it really gets underrated. And it's nice to be around musicians who are kind of brand-new."
Though she's currently playing sporadic gigs to support Movement Nashville's efforts, Nash plans to launch a full tour following her album's release. And should the whole "music thing" not pan out, the singer's got a backup plan: "Working at Wal-Mart," Nash deadpans. "That's where I'm headed after this."
Source
Produced by Pierre Marchand (Sarah McLachlan) and currently in the mixing stage, the as-yet-untitled album was recorded throughout the fall in Canada, and is suffused with the mature pop in the vein of Sixpence. Among the new tracks are "Between the Lines," "Nervous in the Light of Dawn" and the delicate ballad "Along the Wall," which Nash says is her favorite.
"That's the first song that [Pierre and I] wrote together when we first met," she says. "I like just the mood of it. It's very beautiful, piano-based, and I tend to like songs like that."
Nash entered the music business in her teens after meeting guitarist Matt Slocum at a church retreat in Austin. The two, initially rounded out by bassist T.J. Behling, formed the Christian rock outfit Sixpence None the Richer (the name taken from C.S. Lewis'Mere Christianity) and released four albums. But following the release of 2002's Divine Discontent, which suffered lengthy label tangles before hitting shelves, both Slocum and Nash decided to disband.
"Matt and I had basically been thinking the same thing during the months leading up to the breakup," she says. "I had heard that he didn't want to make another record, so I called him and said, 'If you don't want to make the record, and I don't, then what are we doing?' It was a pretty easy conversation to have. We were both just so tired. We are still friends."
In spite of her thirteen years with Sixpence, Nash isn't a stranger to solo outings. She recorded the song "Need to Be Next to You" for the soundtrack to the 2000 romantic film Bounce, and she made guest appearances on albums by surf-guitar rockers Los Straightjackets and electro-dance outfit Delerium. But Nash is thrilled to finally be releasing her first solo effort. "I'm already excited about making another record," she says. "Just the exploration of me as a writer has been an unbelievable experience, and I think it's just the beginning."
In the meantime, Nash is also throwing her weight behind Movement Nashville, a small group of musicians -- including AutoVaughn, Jeremy Lister and Bang Bang Bang -- dedicated to promoting the diversity of the city's music scene. "Of course, most people think of country music," she says of Nashville, where she also resides. "But there is a really vibrant, thriving rock scene. It's unbelievable, but it really gets underrated. And it's nice to be around musicians who are kind of brand-new."
Though she's currently playing sporadic gigs to support Movement Nashville's efforts, Nash plans to launch a full tour following her album's release. And should the whole "music thing" not pan out, the singer's got a backup plan: "Working at Wal-Mart," Nash deadpans. "That's where I'm headed after this."
Source
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence None the Richer to perform at Greenbelt Festival
Words: STREETBRAND Reporter
Sunday, 2 August 2009
GRAMMY-nominated American pop/rock band Sixpence None the Richer, most famous for Kiss Me and their covers of There She Goes and Don't Dream It's Over, will perform at the Christian music festival Greenbelt from 28 to 31 August at the Cheltenham Racecourse.
Made up of Matt Slocum and Leigh Nash, the band reunited in October 2008 after a four year break. Since then, they have released a Christmas record called The Dawn of Grace, and recently signed to EMI Credential.
Thousands are expected at this year's Greenbelt. The lineup at the Cheltenham Christian festival includes artists from yFriday, Jahaziel, Stu G, thebandwithnoname, Miriam Jones, L27, Karl Nova to Sharlene Hector, who featured in the 2004 worldwide Coca-Cola commercial singing I Wish (I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free), according to the event's website.
Most noted for the GRAMMY-nominated ballad Kiss Me, Sixpence None the Richer quickly became a household name and was featured in the film She's All That and played on TV during Prince Edward's wedding.
According to reports, the duo will release their new album early next year.
Christian Music News Source
Monday, August 3, 2009
Christian music news: The Gospel According to Sixpence None the Richer
Latest christian music:
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TO HEAR “KISS ME,” THE SMASH SINGLE BY SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER, is to be overcome by a series of romantic images: a young, awkwardly beautiful girl feeling the first flush of love, shedding her shyness in the arms of a good-hearted hunk on prom night; a pair of teenagers tingling with the knowledge that their relationship is more than that of the archetypal boy and girl next door; and in the ultimate romantic fairy tale, a prince and a princess joining together in holy matrimony.
Yet these scenes are not from singer Leigh Nash’s life, and they aren’t allusions to song lyrics. They’re clips from, respectively, the hit teen movie She’s All That, the ultra-trendy teen TV showDawson’s Creek, and the BBC broadcast of the Prince Edward—Sophie Rhys-Jones nuptials. Each of these very high-profile moments came off with the simple sentiments and indelible melodies of “Kiss Me” playing ...Source
Monday, June 29, 2009
Christian music news: Sixpence None The Richer Biography
Latest christian music:
This band's melodic indie pop shot into the mainstream on the back of 1999's bestselling single "Kiss Me'. Sixpence None The Richer, whose name was inspired by a passage of text in C.S. Lewis" Mere Christianity, was founded by vocalist Leigh Nash (b. Leigh Bingham, 27 June 1976, New Braunfels, Texas, USA) and guitarist and songwriter Matt Slocum (b. 27 December 1972, New Braunfels, Texas, USA). Bingham and Slocum first met at a church meeting in their native New Braunfels in the late 80s. They formed Sixpence None The Richer, although Slocum continued to play guitar with another Texas-based band, Love Coma. The duo recorded a four-track demo with bass player T.J. Behling, which led to a contract with REX Music.
Sixpence None The Richer's 1993 debut, The Fatherless And The Widow, was recorded with the help of Behling and Love Coma drummer Chris Dodds, and drew acclaim for Slocum's highly literate, quasi-religious lyrics and Bingham's expressive vocals. The following year the band toured extensively throughout Europe and America with new drummer Dale Baker (b. 29 June 1966) and rhythm guitarist Tess Wiley (ex-Nothing In Return), including a prestigious opening slot for 10,000 Maniacs. Bass player J.J. Plasencio joined in 1995 to help record This Beautiful Messand the EP Tickets For A Prayer Wheel. A move to Nashville followed, although the collapse of REX Music and the departure of Wiley and Plasencio delayed sessions for a new album. Leigh Bingham became Leigh Nash after marrying in May 1996.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Christian music news: sixpence none the richer is good. no seriously, hear me out.
Latest christian music:
You shouldn't write Sixpence off for this song (or their follow-up radio friendly cover). Hear me out. Sixpence None the Richer is a great band. No irony intended. Let me explain:
The band didn't even plan to include the song Kiss Me on the album. It was a throwaway bubble gum song. The record company thought it would be gold. It was. Can you blame them for that? I can just hear matt saying “Damn right you can blame them!”. Calm down imaginary matt voice. There's more.
At it's foundation, Sixpence is Matt Slocum. He is a gifted guitar player, songwriter, and arranger. Their non-single tracks show asmart and interesting U2 influence. About the Kiss Me fiasco, Matt has said: ␄...somedays I feel as if we've been pushed to a precipice overhanging the sea of one-hit wonders, and until this next album comes out, who's to say we won't all fall in?”.
Matt also “...composed [and recorded] a piece for chamber orchestra two years ago based on C.S. Lewis' novel The Great Divorce”. How cool is that!?
Want proof that they are worth a listen? It you are not Lars from Metallica, and then search for “This Beautiful Mess” on Schmapster. But first, take 1 minute and 10 seconds of your precious top 40 hating time and watch this video of Leigh Nash (lead singer) and Matt Slocum performing an abbreviated version of The Lines of My Earth.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Leigh Nash - Mercy Lounge - Ocean Size Love
Leigh Nash of Sixpence None The Richer performing "Ocean Size Love" at Mercy Lounge in Nashville, TN for the annual Tin Pan South Songwritters Festival. 4/4/09
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Leigh Nash - Mercy Lounge - Sooner Than Later
Leigh Nash of Sixpence None The Richer performing "Sooner Than Later" at Mercy Lounge in Nashville, TN for the annual Tin Pan South Songwritters Festival. 4/4/09
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Leigh Nash - Mercy Lounge - Gonna Be Ok
Leigh Nash of Sixpence None The Richer performing "Ok" at Mercy Lounge in Nashville, TN for the annual Tin Pan South Songwritters Festival. 4/4/09
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
This Is “Sixpence None The Richer” Attractive
Ever since we said that Clemson University Student Body President Callie Boyd was kinda cute “in that Sixpence None The Richer sort of way,” we’ve had more than a few old people inquire as to what we meant by this expression.
Well, “Sixpence None The Richer” was/ is a Christian pop band (named after a C.S. Lewis passage) that achieved mainstream success back in the late nineties with the hit single “Kiss Me.”
The band followed up with two solid Brit-pop covers, Crowded House’s “Don’t Dream It’s Over” and the up-until-then-virtually-unheard of “There She Goes” by the La’s.
And since we were fans of the La’s before there was a “Sixpence None The Richer,” we chose to lend that cover tune to your auditory sensibilities …
Where is all this going?
Well, Leigh Nash (pictured) was/ is the singer for “Sixpence None The Richer,” hence the reference.
And while she probably looks nothing like Miss Boyd, for whatever reason the expression seemed to fit the piece.
There’s something irresistibly “Sprite-ish” about both girls, and they’ve both got great eyes … and yes, we will shut up now.
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Sixpence None The Richer & jars of clay - Silent Nigth Live - Love came down concert
Sixpence None The Richer & jars of clay - Silent Nigth Live - Love came down concert
Christian Music News Source
Christian Music News Source
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Sixpence None the Richer - at 3rd and Lindsley in Nashville - kiss me - live
Sixpence None the Richer at 3rd and Lindsley in Nashville - kiss me - live
Christian Music News Source
Christian Music News Source
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
CN8's Backstage - Sixpence None The Richer
Shawn Tempesta interviews Sixpence None The Richer, and they perform their smash hit "Kiss Me", on CN8's "Backstage". Airdate 12/11/08
Christian Music News Source
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
KGRL's Top 13 Albums To Watch Out For In 2009
KGRL -- mentioned previously here -- is a local "...non-profit non-commercial internet radio station that plays the freshest and the best ALL QUALITY female artist / fronted acts in a wide variety of genres." Their "Top 10 Artists To Watch Out For In 2007" included local singer-songwriter Sara Bareilles (MySpace), who in 2008 experienced mainstream recognition due to "Love Song", which garnered Grammy nominations for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance and Song of The Year.
According to KGRL's Mysty, who's also responsible for their Best Albums Of 2008: "Some people believe that the number 13 is an unlucky number. I guess we'll try to debunk that and take away the fear by doing a Top 13 Albums To Look Forward To In 2009 list. Besides, this could be the 13 that will bring you luck in 2009."
13. A Camp (MySpace) - Colonia: "The Nina Persson solo side project, A Camp bursts back onto the music scene with the upcoming release of Colonia, the follow-up to their 2004 self-titled debut. In case you have not heard of Nina Persson, she's the vocalist for the ultra-popular Swedish band, The Cardigans. If the first single titled 'Stronger Than Jesus,' released in Swedish iTunes on November 2008, is an indication of things to come then we can look forward with great expectations to Colonia come 2009. The Scandinavian release of Colonia is scheduled on January 28, UK follows next on February 2, and finally the US on April 28."
12. Vedera (MySpace) - Stages: "Formed in 2004, the Kansas City-based indie rock band Vedera (formerly known as Veda) is due to finally release their sophomore offering, Stages, in 2009. With the release of a three-track teaser of new songs aptly titled Stages EP back in April 2008, it's really hard not to anticipate the release of the full-length album. Thanks to the refreshing and extremely likeable voice of Kristen May, we got hooked by Vedera."
11. Holly Brook (MySpace): "Like Blood Like Honey was an impressive debut by singer / songwriter Holly Brook released under Linkin Park's label, Machine Shop/Warner Brothers. The songs from the album received their fair share of exposure, but a lot has happened to this young artist after the release of the record. For reasons she likes to keep to herself, she asked to be released under the record deal. That step cost her a year and a half to get finalized. In what seemed to be the rock-bottom part of her career, she even did some busking - performing in the streets somewhere in downtown Ventura (California). Recently though, she's been performing as a back-up musician/singer for Duncan Sheik. In the midst of all these events, Holly has been writing and has almost finished recording a new album. Let this entry be our first shot at showing our support for Holly's comeback record in 2009!"
Numbers 10 through 1 after the jump.
10. Kari Kimmel (MySpace): "Kari Kimmel's 2006 debut, A Life In The Day, was an emotional stunner. With a voice to rival most, if not all, American Idol contestants it's easy to understand how she got tons, and I mean tons, of TV, movie, and ad placements. The recently released Pink Balloon EP strays a bit from the sentimental nature of the debut and presents a merry happy Kari Kimmel. But that's just a taste, for the upcoming second full-length album is due in March 2009."
9. Automatic Loveletter (MySpace): "One of the best vocals in a rock band I've heard in a while belongs to Juliet Simms from the band Automatic Loveletter. After listening to their 2007 Recover EP, all i could say is 'Perfect.' The ultra-addictive melodies are brought to life with Juliet's vocals. I'm just amazed at how such a few tracks can express her vocal flexibility. Whether singing a more hush hush somber track like 'Hush' or blasting out a rock track like 'Parker,' Juliet simply shines. Their EP makes me feel that every song Juliet sings will be good. So, allow us to be the first in line to buy their full-length when it comes out in summer of '09."
8. Butterfly Boucher (MySpace) - Scary Fragile: "Successfully breaking out of her record deal, Australian singer / songwriter Butterfly Boucher flutters by freely and is expected to land with her new album Scary Fragile in 2009. It seemed the new record would receive the same lack of support as her fabulous debut Flutterby, so she opted to sever ties with the label. Fortunately, she retained the rights to the new materials written and recorded during the deal. With only the final mastering left to be done, expect the release of the record very soon. You've had your warning. Now's the time to prepare for the return of the Butterfly."
7. Imogen Heap (MySpace): "Perhaps one of the most anticipated albums for 2009 is the third solo album from Imogen Heap. If you've been following Ms. Heap's "vBlogs" over at YouTube then you've probably heard a few tidbits and titles of the songs being considered for the upcoming full-length. There's been too many missed dates but it's certain the new record will come out early 2009. Here's to hoping that after the new solo album comes out, we can look forward to a new Frou Frou record."
6. Sarah Fimm (MySpace): "The wait for a new album from Sarah Fimm has been four long years. You can imagine our pent-up eagerness for something to come out. This Christmas's release of White Birds, the first in Sarah's planned trilogy of EPs (with the latter two EPs coming out in 2009) made it the best Christmas EVER! The fact that she is giving it away for free makes it even better. The new EP immediately captivated my musical senses. There was no choice for me but to take it all the way to the top of my Best Albums Of 2008 list. This is the kind of music that reminds me why I love what I do with KGRL. Download the White Birds EP and be one of the fans who, like us, awaits the second and third EPs in 2009."
5. Charlotte Hatherley (MySpace) Cinnabar City: "UK rocker and ex-Ash band member Charlotte Hatherley is about to release her third record, titled Cinnabar City, in 2009. We consider Charlotte Hatherley one of the most important UK artists that the people of the USA have not caught up with just yet. Her first two records, namely Grey Will Fade (2004) and The Deep Blue (2007), showcase the eccentric alternative style of Charlotte. Both records offer a variety from fast and quirky upbeat rockers, to slow and moody idiosyncratic compositions. With that knowledge in hand, we invite you to join us as we eagerly await our journey to Cinnabar City in 2009."
4. Nerina Pallot (MySpace): "Another one of our favorite UK pop artists who really should release her records in the US (and someone who we'd love to feature someday in our Flower-Powered Artist section), is Nerina Pallot. We consider both Dear Frustrated Superstar (2001) and Fires (2006) as two of the best pop records EVER. Too bad even the UK failed to notice the brilliance of Dear Frustrated Superstar when it was released. Fortunately, with the record Fires, she got the attention she deserves. Did I mention we totally love both CDs she has released so far? We are anxiously awaiting the new record that is supposed to come out soon (in 2009 of course). Whether she calls it 'When Did I Become Such A Bitch?' or anything sillier, we'd still buy it."
3. The Bird And The Bee (MySpace) - Rayguns Are Not Just The Future: "Greg Kurstin and Inara George of The Bird And The Bee continue to dominate our list as we look foward to Rayguns Are Not Just The Future, their follow-up to 2007's self-titled debut. Being that we've been playing the new tracks from this record on the station for a month and a half now, I can safely say that the new record is a worthy second offering and just as elegant as the debut. In the new record, The Bird And The Bee continues to capture the essence of retro music and flawlessly integrates the wonders of the digital age. Look out for the new record this January 2009 (January 13 on iTunes and January 27 in retail and online stores)."
2. Sixpence None The Richer (MySpace): "I've been a huge fan of Sixpence None The Richer (Matt Slocum & Leigh Nash) since their self-titled record in 1997. In 2002 they released Divine Discontent, a record that I personally consider as one of the best albums ever. It was like a stake was driven right through my heart when they announced in 2004 that the group was disbanded. Leigh Nash went on to embark on a solo career and released Blue On Blue in 2006. Nash collaborated with the duo of Bill Leeb and Rhys Fulber (Delerium) to release a self-titled record under the name Fauxliage in 2007. But none of the Leigh Nash projects really satisfied the longing for the music of Sixpence None The Richer. Finally in 2008, we received the best news of the year (at least musically): the band was to be reunited. Immediately after the reunion they released My Dear Machine EP followed shortafter by their very first Christmas album, The Dawn Of Grace. We now wait with bated breath as 2009 hopefully brings us the new full-length from Sixpence None The Richer."
1. Hazel Mills (MySpace): "Last year, we gave the top spot on our Artists To Watch Out For In 2008 list to the Bristol-based singer / songwriter, Hazel Mills. It's not such a wonder that she takes the top spot this year again, this time for her upcoming second EP. Hazel's debut EP, Butterfly, was truly a brilliant masterpiece that delivered track after track of nothing but complex yet very accessible compositions. Unfortunately, we did not get any EP for 2008. Instead, she gave us a tasty slice of her new materials via an exclusive KGRL Flower-Powered Artist Live session. The new songs that debuted in our feature left us salivating for more. To say that we are excited about the upcoming release of the second EP is an understatement. So without further delay, allow me to share the excitement as I point you all towards Hazel's exclusive Flower-Powered Artist Live session (courtesy of her record label Xpress Records). The latest we got from Hazel and her writing partner / producer TJ Allen is that they just secured the blessings of their record label for the second EP. Expect the second EP sometime in 2009."
This month, KGRL features LAist favorite Obi Best (MySpace) as their featured artist.
Special thanks to KGRL.
Christian Music News Source
According to KGRL's Mysty, who's also responsible for their Best Albums Of 2008: "Some people believe that the number 13 is an unlucky number. I guess we'll try to debunk that and take away the fear by doing a Top 13 Albums To Look Forward To In 2009 list. Besides, this could be the 13 that will bring you luck in 2009."
13. A Camp (MySpace) - Colonia: "The Nina Persson solo side project, A Camp bursts back onto the music scene with the upcoming release of Colonia, the follow-up to their 2004 self-titled debut. In case you have not heard of Nina Persson, she's the vocalist for the ultra-popular Swedish band, The Cardigans. If the first single titled 'Stronger Than Jesus,' released in Swedish iTunes on November 2008, is an indication of things to come then we can look forward with great expectations to Colonia come 2009. The Scandinavian release of Colonia is scheduled on January 28, UK follows next on February 2, and finally the US on April 28."
12. Vedera (MySpace) - Stages: "Formed in 2004, the Kansas City-based indie rock band Vedera (formerly known as Veda) is due to finally release their sophomore offering, Stages, in 2009. With the release of a three-track teaser of new songs aptly titled Stages EP back in April 2008, it's really hard not to anticipate the release of the full-length album. Thanks to the refreshing and extremely likeable voice of Kristen May, we got hooked by Vedera."
11. Holly Brook (MySpace): "Like Blood Like Honey was an impressive debut by singer / songwriter Holly Brook released under Linkin Park's label, Machine Shop/Warner Brothers. The songs from the album received their fair share of exposure, but a lot has happened to this young artist after the release of the record. For reasons she likes to keep to herself, she asked to be released under the record deal. That step cost her a year and a half to get finalized. In what seemed to be the rock-bottom part of her career, she even did some busking - performing in the streets somewhere in downtown Ventura (California). Recently though, she's been performing as a back-up musician/singer for Duncan Sheik. In the midst of all these events, Holly has been writing and has almost finished recording a new album. Let this entry be our first shot at showing our support for Holly's comeback record in 2009!"
Numbers 10 through 1 after the jump.
10. Kari Kimmel (MySpace): "Kari Kimmel's 2006 debut, A Life In The Day, was an emotional stunner. With a voice to rival most, if not all, American Idol contestants it's easy to understand how she got tons, and I mean tons, of TV, movie, and ad placements. The recently released Pink Balloon EP strays a bit from the sentimental nature of the debut and presents a merry happy Kari Kimmel. But that's just a taste, for the upcoming second full-length album is due in March 2009."
9. Automatic Loveletter (MySpace): "One of the best vocals in a rock band I've heard in a while belongs to Juliet Simms from the band Automatic Loveletter. After listening to their 2007 Recover EP, all i could say is 'Perfect.' The ultra-addictive melodies are brought to life with Juliet's vocals. I'm just amazed at how such a few tracks can express her vocal flexibility. Whether singing a more hush hush somber track like 'Hush' or blasting out a rock track like 'Parker,' Juliet simply shines. Their EP makes me feel that every song Juliet sings will be good. So, allow us to be the first in line to buy their full-length when it comes out in summer of '09."
8. Butterfly Boucher (MySpace) - Scary Fragile: "Successfully breaking out of her record deal, Australian singer / songwriter Butterfly Boucher flutters by freely and is expected to land with her new album Scary Fragile in 2009. It seemed the new record would receive the same lack of support as her fabulous debut Flutterby, so she opted to sever ties with the label. Fortunately, she retained the rights to the new materials written and recorded during the deal. With only the final mastering left to be done, expect the release of the record very soon. You've had your warning. Now's the time to prepare for the return of the Butterfly."
7. Imogen Heap (MySpace): "Perhaps one of the most anticipated albums for 2009 is the third solo album from Imogen Heap. If you've been following Ms. Heap's "vBlogs" over at YouTube then you've probably heard a few tidbits and titles of the songs being considered for the upcoming full-length. There's been too many missed dates but it's certain the new record will come out early 2009. Here's to hoping that after the new solo album comes out, we can look forward to a new Frou Frou record."
6. Sarah Fimm (MySpace): "The wait for a new album from Sarah Fimm has been four long years. You can imagine our pent-up eagerness for something to come out. This Christmas's release of White Birds, the first in Sarah's planned trilogy of EPs (with the latter two EPs coming out in 2009) made it the best Christmas EVER! The fact that she is giving it away for free makes it even better. The new EP immediately captivated my musical senses. There was no choice for me but to take it all the way to the top of my Best Albums Of 2008 list. This is the kind of music that reminds me why I love what I do with KGRL. Download the White Birds EP and be one of the fans who, like us, awaits the second and third EPs in 2009."
5. Charlotte Hatherley (MySpace) Cinnabar City: "UK rocker and ex-Ash band member Charlotte Hatherley is about to release her third record, titled Cinnabar City, in 2009. We consider Charlotte Hatherley one of the most important UK artists that the people of the USA have not caught up with just yet. Her first two records, namely Grey Will Fade (2004) and The Deep Blue (2007), showcase the eccentric alternative style of Charlotte. Both records offer a variety from fast and quirky upbeat rockers, to slow and moody idiosyncratic compositions. With that knowledge in hand, we invite you to join us as we eagerly await our journey to Cinnabar City in 2009."
4. Nerina Pallot (MySpace): "Another one of our favorite UK pop artists who really should release her records in the US (and someone who we'd love to feature someday in our Flower-Powered Artist section), is Nerina Pallot. We consider both Dear Frustrated Superstar (2001) and Fires (2006) as two of the best pop records EVER. Too bad even the UK failed to notice the brilliance of Dear Frustrated Superstar when it was released. Fortunately, with the record Fires, she got the attention she deserves. Did I mention we totally love both CDs she has released so far? We are anxiously awaiting the new record that is supposed to come out soon (in 2009 of course). Whether she calls it 'When Did I Become Such A Bitch?' or anything sillier, we'd still buy it."
3. The Bird And The Bee (MySpace) - Rayguns Are Not Just The Future: "Greg Kurstin and Inara George of The Bird And The Bee continue to dominate our list as we look foward to Rayguns Are Not Just The Future, their follow-up to 2007's self-titled debut. Being that we've been playing the new tracks from this record on the station for a month and a half now, I can safely say that the new record is a worthy second offering and just as elegant as the debut. In the new record, The Bird And The Bee continues to capture the essence of retro music and flawlessly integrates the wonders of the digital age. Look out for the new record this January 2009 (January 13 on iTunes and January 27 in retail and online stores)."
2. Sixpence None The Richer (MySpace): "I've been a huge fan of Sixpence None The Richer (Matt Slocum & Leigh Nash) since their self-titled record in 1997. In 2002 they released Divine Discontent, a record that I personally consider as one of the best albums ever. It was like a stake was driven right through my heart when they announced in 2004 that the group was disbanded. Leigh Nash went on to embark on a solo career and released Blue On Blue in 2006. Nash collaborated with the duo of Bill Leeb and Rhys Fulber (Delerium) to release a self-titled record under the name Fauxliage in 2007. But none of the Leigh Nash projects really satisfied the longing for the music of Sixpence None The Richer. Finally in 2008, we received the best news of the year (at least musically): the band was to be reunited. Immediately after the reunion they released My Dear Machine EP followed shortafter by their very first Christmas album, The Dawn Of Grace. We now wait with bated breath as 2009 hopefully brings us the new full-length from Sixpence None The Richer."
1. Hazel Mills (MySpace): "Last year, we gave the top spot on our Artists To Watch Out For In 2008 list to the Bristol-based singer / songwriter, Hazel Mills. It's not such a wonder that she takes the top spot this year again, this time for her upcoming second EP. Hazel's debut EP, Butterfly, was truly a brilliant masterpiece that delivered track after track of nothing but complex yet very accessible compositions. Unfortunately, we did not get any EP for 2008. Instead, she gave us a tasty slice of her new materials via an exclusive KGRL Flower-Powered Artist Live session. The new songs that debuted in our feature left us salivating for more. To say that we are excited about the upcoming release of the second EP is an understatement. So without further delay, allow me to share the excitement as I point you all towards Hazel's exclusive Flower-Powered Artist Live session (courtesy of her record label Xpress Records). The latest we got from Hazel and her writing partner / producer TJ Allen is that they just secured the blessings of their record label for the second EP. Expect the second EP sometime in 2009."
This month, KGRL features LAist favorite Obi Best (MySpace) as their featured artist.
Special thanks to KGRL.
Christian Music News Source
Wednesday, January 7, 2009
Album Reviews: The Dawn of Grace by Sixpence None the Richer
What's more fitting than a Christmas album from a Christian pop band? Not much. Texas band Sixpence None the Richer celebrates the glory of God with their holiday album The Dawn of Grace.
Now, don't go grabbing your red and white, furry Santa hat or pouring yourself a hearty glass of eggnog spiked with your favorite liquer so you can start rockin' around the Christmas tree in the most amorous ways with your beloved! The Dawn of Grace foregoes the silly holiday romps in favor of all spiritual, pious songs like "O Come, O Come Emanuel," "Angels We Have Heard on High" and "Silent Night," albeit performed with a twangy, acoustic guitar edge and sung by the angelically voiced Leigh Nash, whose delicate, lush and haunting voice finds its closest relative in Mazzy Star's Hope Sandoval.
The Dawn of Grace is one of the more somber, faith-based Christmas albums we've heard, and it's perfectly suited to be played in a forward-thinking church during the holiday season. It's Nash's voice that chills the spine with its cool, collected and celestial quality. She does supreme justice to Joni Mitchell's depressing, heartaching "River," quite possibly the most gut wrenching Christmas-related song ever! Nash has the uncanny knack for conveying so much emotion through subdued singing, which is no simple feat. Most vocalists have to rely on show-stopping displays of prowess to make their points, but Nash demonstrates equal force and power simply by letting her voice carry.
You needn't be a Fundamentlist Christian or even a fan of the band's lone hit, 1997's ubiquitous "Kiss Me" in order to enjoy The Dawn of Grace. If anything, Nash's gorgeous voice will lull you into a happy, escapist trance when your relatives are fighting over who gets the last of the fruitcake or when they are going to return that hideous sweater that they were gifted with!
Christian Music News Source
Now, don't go grabbing your red and white, furry Santa hat or pouring yourself a hearty glass of eggnog spiked with your favorite liquer so you can start rockin' around the Christmas tree in the most amorous ways with your beloved! The Dawn of Grace foregoes the silly holiday romps in favor of all spiritual, pious songs like "O Come, O Come Emanuel," "Angels We Have Heard on High" and "Silent Night," albeit performed with a twangy, acoustic guitar edge and sung by the angelically voiced Leigh Nash, whose delicate, lush and haunting voice finds its closest relative in Mazzy Star's Hope Sandoval.
The Dawn of Grace is one of the more somber, faith-based Christmas albums we've heard, and it's perfectly suited to be played in a forward-thinking church during the holiday season. It's Nash's voice that chills the spine with its cool, collected and celestial quality. She does supreme justice to Joni Mitchell's depressing, heartaching "River," quite possibly the most gut wrenching Christmas-related song ever! Nash has the uncanny knack for conveying so much emotion through subdued singing, which is no simple feat. Most vocalists have to rely on show-stopping displays of prowess to make their points, but Nash demonstrates equal force and power simply by letting her voice carry.
You needn't be a Fundamentlist Christian or even a fan of the band's lone hit, 1997's ubiquitous "Kiss Me" in order to enjoy The Dawn of Grace. If anything, Nash's gorgeous voice will lull you into a happy, escapist trance when your relatives are fighting over who gets the last of the fruitcake or when they are going to return that hideous sweater that they were gifted with!
Christian Music News Source
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