‘The Future’ Gives Real Hope For The Future Of Nathaniel Rateliff And The Night Sweats

Courtesy: Stax/Fantasy/Concord

When Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats released its album, Tearing at the Seams in 2018, it went without saying that the record (the band’s second) was very much a sophomore slump for the band.  That is because by comparison to the group’s self-titled 2015 album, it was far from what audiences and critics had hoped for.  Now more than three years after that record’s release, the collective has returned to form in its third album, The Future.  The 11-song record is aptly-titled as its musical and lyrical content collectively shows that the group is indeed looking to the future rather than the past.  One of the songs that serves so well to prove this comes right from the album’s outset in its title track.  This song will be discussed shortly.  ‘Love Me Till I’m Gone,’ which comes later in the record’s 41-minute run time, is another notable addition to The Future.  It will be examined a little later.  Much the same can be said of ‘I’m On Your Side,’ which comes even later in the album’s sequence.  It will also be examined later.  Each song noted here does its own share to make The Future an enjoyable new offering from Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats.  When they are considered alongside the rest of the album’s entries, the whole makes the album overall a successful new offering from the group.

Nathaniel Rateliff and The Night Sweats’ third album, The Future is a fresh new breath of air from the collective, following the mulligan that was the band’s sophomore album, Tearing at the Seams.  This latest offering from the collective shines, as noted, due to its collective musical and lyrical themes.  The album’s opener/title track does well to support the noted statements.  The song’s musical arrangement is part of the composition’s success.  Right from its own outset, Rateliff and company present a great vintage country music style work.  Rateliff’s own vocal delivery adds to the interest as it is immediately comparable to that of the one and only Bob Dylan.  Even as Rateliff hits some high notes, really pushing his limits, that comparison remains.  That duality, and the production that went into the song to add to the depth of the song’s sound and impact, makes the arrangement so engaging and entertaining in itself.  It is just one part of what makes the song stand out, too.  The lyrical theme (or rather seeming theme) that accompanies the song’s musical arrangement makes for its own interest.

The lyrical theme (or seeming theme) featured in the record is so interesting because of its contemplative nature.  Right from the song’s opening, Rateliff asks, “Is the future open?/Is the future seen?” before continuing, “You’d have to pray forever/And if you don’t believe/They’ll come down on you/From the longest fall.”  This very line seems to hint at the way people react to those who disagree with their own views while worrying about the future because of the present.  That is of course just this critic’s own interpretation and should not be taken as the only interpretation.  Rateliff even seems to address those self-righteous types as he states, “When they’ve all been vanquished and they’ve all been tried/Like it’s some great penalty/And they got no follow through/They hold the weakest stance.”  He then adds, “Yeah, well they’ll come to steal and divide/All that’s good.”  This collective commentary seems to be a statement about not only those who want everyone to give in to their beliefs and way of life, but those above them and how hard they will try to divide and steal all that’s good because they want their way or no way.  Interestingly enough, from there, Rateliff seems to continue the noted commentary, this time seemingly pointing the finger at those who give in to that and just want to get even with the other side.  That is inferred as he sings, “You say you thirst for vengeance/And you crave for fire/On the roofs of innocence/You watch them rage and writhe/And it don’t bother you/You feel so brave/You’re standing in the water/You think that you’ve been saved/With your blind ignorance/In comes a crushing wave/Now see what drown men do in your watery grave.”  This really comes across even more as an indictment of those who want to force others to live life like them.  It is a sort of “look at you” statement to those people.  Again, this is all the interpretation of this critic and should not be taken as the only interpretation.  Regardless, the unique way in which Rateliff ruminates on what is clearly a social commentary makes for so much engagement and entertainment.  When that ensured interest is joined with the song’s equally enjoyable musical arrangement, the whole makes the song overall doubtless, a great addition to the album and just one example of what makes the album a success.  ‘Love Me Till I’m Gone’ is another positive way in which the album shows its strength.

‘Love Me Till I’m Gone’ stands out in part because of its musical arrangement.  The arrangement is a completely immersive work that blends elements of jazz and R&B from decades gone by.  The use of the keyboards and horns here pairs with Rateliff’s vocals, which change here with the music) for a sound that lends itself to comparison to works from Ray Charles, Stevie Wonder, and other similar acts.  The casual, relaxed sense that the arrangement establishes is such a wonderful starting point for the song.  It is certain to engage and entertain audiences, and is just part of what makes the song stand out.  The equally accessible lyrical theme featured in the song makes for even more entertainment.

The lyrical theme featured in this song is in fact a love song, but not the type that one might expect.  In the case of this song, the song’s subject is in fact someone who is just looking for that reassurance that we all want.  This is made clear as Rateliff sings, “Will you hold me tight when you’re close/And then/Will you love me when I’m worn out and I start to cave?”   The subject adds, “These kind of moments come in waves, you know/Some take your breath and fill your days/It’s a powerful love you want to know/Ah, as we walk hand in hand/I’m just here to say that, ya/We want back time that we never have/Hours just turn into days/To love me now like you loved me then/And will you love me even when you know that I’m wrong?”  The ask for that reassurance continues in the song’s closing lines in similar fashion.  Keeping that in mind, the theme here, again, is not just the typical love song theme.  It is a theme of someone who just wants to know that his/her loved one will be there no matter what.  Again, interestingly enough, such a theme would typically conjure thoughts of a song whose musical arrangement is much more somber and reserved.  That this song’s arrangement does not take that course just as the song’s theme is atypical in its own right, the whole gains that much more interest.  It shows even more why The Future is worth hearing.  It is just one more of the album’s most notable works, too.  ‘I’m On Your Side’ is yet another way in which the album proves its enjoyment.

The musical arrangement featured in ‘I’m On Your Side’ is another composition that is rooted in the soul and funk sounds of the 1960s and 70s.  That is clearly evidenced through the use of the horns and keyboards along the rich sounds of the drums, bass, and vocals.  The thing here is that even with the noted influence so clear, the arrangement here boasts its own unique identity that blends in some modern rock influence a la Bruce Springsteen for a whole that is so infectious from start to end of its three minute, 19 second run time.  The energy in the song’s arrangement works so well in partner with the song’s lyrical theme, which itself serves as a great companion to ‘Love Me Till I’m Gone.’  Where ‘Love Me Till I’m Gone’ finds the song’s subject needing that reassurance in what is clearly a moment of self-doubt, ‘I’m On Your Side’ is that other person essentially responding positively.

The noted statement is made clear right from the song’s title and enriched as Rateliff sings, “I’m on your side through thick and thin/We’ll cross divides and we will stand/In hope and light/But if you ain’t alright/Just remember/I’m on your side.”  He also notes in the song’s lead verse, “Did you realize?/Or you can’t remember/Well, adjust your eyes and let ‘em clear/But if you ain’t alright/Just remember/I’m on your side.”  This is that reassurance that the subject wanted, again, in the previously examined song.  This is the other person saying to the other, “clear your eyes” as he asks that person, “do you not remember I’m here and will be?”  It is a great statement, and together with the positive vibes that the song’s musical arrangement establishes, helps to show even more why the song stands out.  When the two sides are joined, they make the song in whole yet another example of what makes The Future a welcome return for Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats.  When it and the other songs examined here are considered along with the rest of the album’s entries, the overall presentation makes The Future a strong new offering from the group that is a nice return to form for the group.

Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats’ new album, The Future, is a welcome new offering from the group that sets right what went wrong with Tearing at the Seams.  Its musical and lyrical arrangements do well to prove that as they bring the group back to form while still giving audiences something new instead of just re-hashing the content from the band’s self-titled 2015 debut.  All three of the songs examined here do well to support the noted statements.  When they are considered along with the rest of the album’s entries, the album in whole gives hope for The Future of Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats.

The Future is available now through Stax/Fantasy/Concord.  More information on the album is available along with all of Nathaniel Rateliff and the Night Sweats’ latest news at:

Website: https://nathanielrateliff.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nathanielrateliff

Twitter: https://twitter.com/NRateliff

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.  

Seether Debuts New Single; Launches New Tour

Courtesy: Fantasy?Concord Records

Seether will release its new record this week.

The band is scheduled to release its new EP, Purgatory Friday through Fantasy/Concord Records.  In anticipation, the band will release the alternate version of its single, ‘Wasteland‘ Tuesday.  The song was originally featured in the band’s 2020 album, Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum.  The new “alternate take” stays true to the source material, with the band opting instead this time for a softer, semi-acoustic take on the song.  The updated take is comparable to works from Staind.

Front man Shaun Morgan said during a recent interview, he was looking forward to the release of the band’s new EP.

“We are really excited to release The Purgatory EP as a companion to our latest single, ‘Wasteland,’ he said. “I’m especially proud of how the alternate version of the track turned out and really happy that people will finally hear it!”

In other news, Seether launched an extensive new tour in support of its new EP.  The tour launched July 17 in Huber Heights, OH and is scheduled to run through Oct. 16 in West Palm Beach, FL.  Performances in cities nationwide, such as Nashville, TN; Boise, ID and Sterling Heights, MI are among the many dates on the tour’s schedule, which is noted below.

TOUR DATES

Jul 29 Thu- Bossier City, LA-Brookshire Grocery Arena

Jul 30 Fri-Sugar Land, TX-Smart Financial Centre at Sugar Land

Jul 31 Sat-Irving, TX-Irving Music Factory

Aug 5 Thu-Tinley Park, IL-Hollywood Casino Amphitheatre

Aug 6 Fri-Indianapolis, IN-TCU Amphitheater at White River State Park

Aug 7 Sat- Sterling Heights, MI-Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill

Aug 12 Thu-Council Bluffs, IA-Harrah’s Council Bluffs Hotel & Casino

Aug 13 Fri-Moorhead, MN-Bluestem Amphitheater

Aug 14 Sat- Belcourt, ND-Sky Dancer Casino & Resort

Aug 19 Thu-Wantagh, NY-Northwell Health at Jones Beach Theater

Aug 20 Fri-Baltimore, MD-MECU Pavilion

Aug 21 Sat-Philadelphia, PA-The Mann Center

Aug 26 Thu-Kennewick, WA-Benton Franklin Fair & Rodeo

Aug 27 Fri-Boise, ID-Expo Idaho

Aug 28 Sat-Salem, OR-Oregon State Fair

Aug 31 Tue-San Jose, CA-San Jose Civic

Sep 2 Thu-Corning, CA-Rolling Hills Casino Corning Ca

Sep 3 Fri-Reno, NV-Grand Theatre at Grand Sierra Resort

Sep 5 Sun-Las Vegas, NV-Fremont Street Experience

Sep 7 Tue-West Valley City, UT-USANA Amphitheatre

Sep 8 Wed-Denver, CO-Bellco Theatre

Sep 10 Fri-Newark, NJ-WDHA’S Family Reunion

Sep 11 Sat-Danville, VA-Blue Ridge Rock Festival 2021

Sep 17 Fri-Minneapolis, MN-93X’s Family Reunion

Sep 19 Sun-Maryland Heights, MO-105.7 The Point 2021 Fest

Sep 23 Thu-Brandon, MS-Brandon Amphitheater

Sep 24 Fri-Rogers, AR-The Walmart AMP

Sep 25 Sat-Nashville, TN-Ascend Amphitheater

Sep 26 Sun-Louisville, KY-Louder Than Life 2021

Sep 30 Thu-North Myrtle Beach, SC-House of Blues Myrtle Beach

Oct 1 Fri-Atlanta, GA-Tabernacle

Oct 2 Sat-Tampa, FL-98ROCKFEST

Oct 7 Thu-Sacramento, CA-Aftershock 2021

Oct 10 Sun-Tempe, AZ-Marquee Theatre

Oct 14 Thu-Jacksonville, FL-Daily’s Place Amphitheater

Oct 15 Fri-Orlando, FL-Hard Rock Live Orlando

Oct 16 Sat-West Palm Beach, FL-iTHINK Financial Amphiteatre

More information on Seether’s new single, tour, and EP is available along with all of the band’s latest news at:

Website: https://www.seether.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/seether

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Seether

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” It. Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

‘Outside Child’ Is A Strong Debut For Allison Russell

Courtesy: Fantasy Records/Concord Records

Singer/songwriter Allison Russell’s debut album, Outside Child is one of the most unique and powerful musical presentations released so far this year.  The 12-song record is really a surprising record because of its musical and lyrical content.  The depth and impact of that collective content, which is largely autobiographical about Russell’s own life, resonates so loudly in its simplicity.  One of the songs that serves so well to illustrate that impact comes early in the form of ‘Nightflyer.’  This song will be discussed shortly.  ‘The Runner’ is another example of how the combination of the album’s musical and lyrical content makes the record so impacting.  It will be discussed a little later.  ;All of the Women’ is yet another example of the power in this record’s simplicity.  It will be discussed later, too.  When this song is considered along with the others noted here and the rest of the album’s works, the whole makes Outside Child one of the biggest surprises of 2021 and one of this year’s best new overall albums.

Allison Russell’s debut album Outside Child is a surprisingly powerful first offering from the singer/songwriter. That is proven from beginning to end of the album’s 53-minute run time through its combined musical and lyrical content.  It touches listeners in ways that they never would have expected, and sticks with them long after the album ends.  That is proven early on in the form of ‘Nightflyer.’  The musical arrangement featured in ‘Nightflyer’ is a soft, gentle composition that is grounded in Russell’s subtle vocal delivery and even more subdued performance on guitar.  The addition of the organ as a supporting element adds even more to the enjoyment here.  The whole lends itself to comparisons to works from maybe Rhiannon Giddens, or Tracy Chapman. One could just as easily make a comparison to works from Delta Rae here, too.  Interestingly enough, for all of the positive vibes that this song’s musical arrangement creates, it seems to be in stark contrast to the powerful statement in the song’s lyrical content. 

The lyrical content featured in this song comes across as a confident statement, describing the song’s subject as someone and something quite powerful.  This is inferred in the song’s lead verse and chorus, in which Russell sings, “I’m the melody and the space between/Every note the swallow sings/I’m fourteen vultures circling/I’m that crawling, dying thing/I’m the smoke up above the trees, Good Lord/The fire and the branch that’s burning, Lord/Maybe you were sleeping, Lord/But Mary she’s not weeping no more, no, mm-mm/ Yeah, I’m a midnight rider/Stone bona fide night flyer/I’m an angel of the morning too/The promise that the dawn will bring you, you, you.”  That mention of Russell being the “vultures circling” and the “fire and the branch that’s burning” is a statement of power.  At the same time, the chorus, which finds Russell comparing herself to the “angel of the morning” creates an interesting dichotomy of sorts.  It’s as if she is saying, she’s strong, but also vulnerable and caring all at once.  It makes for such an interesting statement and presentation, especially when this is set against the song’s so gentle and simple musical arrangement.  One really would not expect such a statement to be paired with the kind of arrangement featured here, yet here it is, and it works in some surprising way.  The whole becomes just one example of what makes Outside Child such an interesting debut for Russell.  ‘The Runner’ is another way in which the album’s overall content proves so interesting.

The musical arrangement featured in ‘The Runner’ is more energetic than that featured in ‘Nightflyer.’  It has a sort of Americana rock sense in its presentation.  That energy does well to help compliment the seeming sense of relief from having to “run” from everything that was going on in her life.

Russell sings of this flight and “escape” in the song’s lead verse and chorus, “Oh, I had to run, to run, to run/From Mont Royale/Aux Portes des Lions (to the Lion’s Doors)/But no freedom would come my way/Yeah, no freedom from/What he’d done to me/Then I heard that Rock and Roll/Outside the South Hill Candy Store/Felt myself walking in/I was up above me, I was standing right beside me, oh/And I saw my deliverance/Deliverance.”  The song’s second verse enhances the song’s impact even more as Russell sings, “Oh, I had to sing, to sing, to sing/From the western sea/To the old country/Oh, I had to bleed, to bleed, to bleed/Till his poison left my veins/Left me.”  This seems to be a statement of the feeling of needing to just get out the pent up emotions even more.  The emotion in those words and in the song’s musical arrangement works to make the song in whole powerful in its own way.  It is just one more way in which the album’s overall content proves the record’s overall impact.  It is just one more example of what makes the album stand out.  ‘All of The Women’ is one more example of the impact of the album’s content.

‘All of The Women’ is another work that bears similarity to works from Delta Rae and Giddens.  It is such a mournful, bittersweet composition.  From the simple instrumentation to the rich vocal delivery, the song offers so much engagement just from this part of its presentation.  The sense of sadness and mournfulness in the arrangement pairs well with the song’s lyrical content to make the song stand out even more.

The lyrical content featured in this song seems to hint at a commentary in support of female escorts (prostitutes).  She sings of seeing the women as more than just prostitutes, but people and that when one in particular is not there “I worry.”  The woman in question tells the subject that she is strong and still gets up even after being mistreated, adding that she makes no apologies for her choice in life.  It is an interesting, empowering statement overall.  When one really stops and thinks about it, the mournful, bittersweet musical arrangement that accompanies this overall statement makes more sense.  It serves as a translation for the mix of strength and sadness that the subject and the woman in question each feel about the woman’s situation.  This is a topic that is rarely if ever addressed in mainstream music.  That is because of the stigma attached to the profession.  For Russell to tackle the topic and do so in such distinct fashion is worthy of applause in itself.  The manner in which she handled the topic is just as worth applause.  When this is considered along with the other songs examined here and their impact, as well as the rest of the album’s songs and their impact, the whole makes Outside Child one of this year’s most impressive musical surprises.

Allison Russell’s debut album, Outside Child, is a strong first outing for the singer/songwriter who is herself unique.  The record stands out because of its musical and lyrical content alike.  That is proven through all three of the songs noted here.  When they are considered along with the rest of the album’s entries, the whole makes the album one of the best of this year’s new overall albums.  Outside Child is available now.  More information on the album is available along with all of Russell’s latest news at:

Website: https://allisonrussellmusic.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/allisonrussellmusic

Twitter: https://twitter.com/outsidechild13

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.  

Valerie June’s Latest LP Is A Welcome Dose Of Musical Medicine

Courtesy: Fantasy Records

Valerie June has remained over the course of her past three albums, one of the most unique singer-songwriters in the music industry. Her latest album, The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers further cements that reputation. Originally scheduled for release in January, that date was pushed back to Friday.  Much as with her existing catalog, this 44-minute presentation stands out because of its combined musical and lyrical content.  The musical arrangement blend elements of folk, soul, and R&B for a whole that itself, ensures listeners’ engagement and entertainment.  The lyrical themes are deep, heartfelt presentations that will touch listeners at the same time.  Collectively, that content makes for so much to like.  ‘Smile’ is just one example of how much the record’s content has to offer.  It will be discussed shortly.  ‘You and I,’ which comes early in the album’s run, does its own part to make the album in whole so powerful.  It will be discussed a little later.  ‘Why The Bright Stars Glow,’ another late entry to the album, is yet another example of what makes Valerie June’s new album stand out.  It will also be discussed later.  When it is considered along with the other songs noted here and the rest of  the album’s songs, that whole makes June’s new album one of  the  year’s best  overall works.

Valerie June’s new album The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers stands out among this year’s field of new albums just as much as its predecessors. It is a record that easily holds its own against this year’s current field of new albums.  That is proven in part through the late entry, ‘Smile.’  This song stands out in part because of its musical arrangement.  The arrangement in question blends elements of soul and funk, with its bass line and occasional horns, with a more neo-folk style approach and sound what with the use of the Hammond organ, strings, and piano.  That collective blends together so well, thanks to those behind the glass, and makes the overall arrangement so infectious.  It is a radio-ready composition that is certain to become a fan favorite.  The arrangement is just one part of what makes the song stand out.  Its lyrical accompaniment adds its own share of appeal to the song.

The lyrical theme featured in ‘Smile’ does quite well to translate the positive vibes established in the song’s title.  June even recently said herself of the song, ‘It’s a song of transcendence, a song of hope and possibilities and being reborn.”  That message is delivered clearly as she sings in her Macy Gray-esque style, “All I could do/All I could do was smile/Life started keeping me/Getting me down/Mm, all I could do was smile/Well, I dusted off/Guess I’ll get back up/It was worth the fall/When the times got tough/There’s a risk involved/Everything a cost/I’ll make it through/I’ll make it through somehow/So weathered and worn/Ever dreaming so wild/Mm, all I could do was smile.”  She continues, stating, “If you never leap/Then your heart won’t know/So you take the chance/So you just let go/And you’ll get knocked down/But that’s how you grow.”  There is no doubt here.  June’s message is delivered clearly, and will be openly welcomed.  That positive message and the equally positive vibes generated through the song’s equally catchy musical arrangement makes the song in whole a wonderful example of what makes The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers such an enjoyable album.  It is just one of the album’s most notable works.  ‘You and I,’ which comes early in the album, is another work that exhibits the album’s strength.

The musical arrangement that opens ‘You and I’ is so unique in its own right.  Its opening bars come across as something akin to a Native American chant.  As the song progresses, the arrangement takes more of a neo-folk style work while still maintaining that “chanting” as a supporting element.  The gentle guitar and subtle bass drum hits join with June’s vocal delivery and the tambourine to make the song stand out even more.  The overall sense that the whole creates is so warm and moving thanks, again, to the song’s production.  It in itself will generate so much engagement and entertainment among listeners.  When the appeal created through the song’s musical arrangement pairs with the song’s equally positive lyrical theme, that whole makes the song even more appealing.

According to comments from June herself, ‘You and I’ is a song that promotes unity.  “It’s a song for sharing, it’s a song for friendship, for discovery,” she said. “And for realizing that our thoughts and our intentions, when we join them together with others, that’s what’s creating the world we see. And we can’t have anything without each other.”

June’s comments are illustrated well in the song as she sings, “When the love left just a friendship/That’s when we found our greatest gift/Little distance for perspective/Gentle patience, sit reflective, oh/You and I/I hope you feel it/I hope you feel it too/Feel it too/Feel it too/You and I, you and I.”  She continues in the song’s second verse and chorus refrain, “It’s to reach for something greater/Doesn’t matter now or later/I heard somebody mention/It’s the thought, it’s the intention, oh/I hope you feel it/I hope you feel it too/Feel it too/Feel it too/You and I/You and I/You and I/We wait for each other/Stronger than lovers/So much to discover/For you and I/You and I.”  Listeners can understand clearly, June’s attempt to get her message of unity across here.  It ensures even more, listeners’ enjoyment of ‘You and I.’ When that enjoyment is paired with the positive mood established through the song’s musical arrangement, that whole shows even more clearly why this song and the album overall are so engaging and entertaining.  It is not the last of the albums most notable works, either.  ‘Why The Bright Stars Shine’ is yet another example of what makes June’s new album so enjoyable.

‘Why The Bright Stars Glow’ is easily the most marketable of the songs featured in Valerie June’s new album.  That is due in no small part to the song’s musical arrangement.  The combination of June’s gentle vocal delivery here, the light electronic drum keeping the time, and the emotionally moving piano line makes this song such an easy fit for any Top 40 radio programmer’s playlist.  It will tug at any listener’s heart strings.  The addition of the subtle string arrangement adds even more appeal to the song, making it just as valid a work for any dramatic movie’s soundtrack.  That emotional depth exhibited through the song’s musical arrangement is heightened through the song’s lyrical theme.    

Lyrically speaking, this song comes across as one of those songs that centers on relationships.  This is inferred as June sings in the song’s lead verse and chorus, “When our race is run/And the gold is won/Look how far we’ve come/Dancing in the sun/It is then I know/I can’t let you go/It is then I know/It’s not suitable/To say I/To say I, to say I/To say I/To say I/To say I.”  That note in the lead verse of looking back “how far we’ve come” coupled with the statement that “It’s not suitable to say I” hints at the relationship advice that in such discussions, saying “I” is not always good, nor is pointing the finger and saying “you.”  This verse paints the picture of someone who sees where things are, and realizes what she has.  Thus the statement, “I can’t let you go.”  June adds in the second verse, “Cause what would we do?/And where would we be?/If it’s not you/And if it’s not you and me (If it’s not you)/You and me/And if it’s not you (If it’s not you, if it’s not you, if it’s not you)/As the curtains close/On a sold-out show/Look how far we’ve come/Dancing in the sun/It is then I know/Why the bright stars glow/It is then I know/It’s impossible”  Again, here is that seeming statement about that connection.  Together with the statement in the song’s lead verse and the song’s overall musical arrangement, the whole becomes a work that is among this record’s highest points.  When the overall song is considered along with the other songs examined here and the rest of the album’s works, the album in whole shows unquestionably that it is among this year’s top new overall albums.

Valerie June’s new album, The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers, is a strong new effort from the established singer-songwriter.  That is thanks to its musical and lyrical content alike.  The record’s musical arrangements once more display June’s   unique talent at composing arrangements while the lyrical content presents its own interest in how it delivers songs.  Each of the songs examined here support those noted statements.  When they are considered along with the rest of the album’s works, the whole of the album more than makes its case for a spot on any critic’s list of the year’s top new albums overall.  The Moon and Stars: Prescriptions for Dreamers is available now.  More information on the album is available along with all of Valerie June’s latest news at:

Website: https://valeriejune.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/valeriejunemusic

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thevaleriejune

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news, go online to https://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.   

Seether Announces New Album Release Date, Specs; Debuts Video For Album’s Lead Single

Courtesy: Fantasy Records

Seether is giving audiences their first preview of its new album

The band debuted the video for its new single ‘Dangerous’ Wednesday through Revolver magazine.  The song is the lead single from the band’s forthcoming album Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum.  Roughly translated, that means “If You Want Peace, Prepare for War.

The album is scheduled for release Aug. 28 through Fantasy Records.

The single’s video takes the classic story of Little Red Riding Hood and turns it on its ear with a dark new interpretation.  The song’s musical arrangement is its own dark, brooding composition that serves to help translate the song’s seeming social commentary contained within its lyrical content.

Pre-orders for Seether’s new album are open now.  It will be available on CD, vinyl and digital.  The record’s track listing is noted below.

 

 

Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum track listing:

1.   Dead And Done

2.   Bruised And Bloodied

3.   Wasteland

4.   Dangerous

5.   Liar

6.   Can’t Go Wrong

7.   Buried In The Sand

8.   Let It Go

9.   Failure

10.  Beg

11.  Drift Away

12.  Pride Before The Fall

13.   Written In Stone

 

 

Si Vis Pacem, Para Bellum was produced by Seether front man Shaun Morgan and mixed by Matt Hyde (Deftones, AFI).  Corey Lowery (ex-Saint Asonia, Stuck Mojo, Dark New Day, Stereomud) joins the band as its newest member on this album.  Lowery also engineered the record.

More information on Seether’s new album, single and video is available along with all of of the band’s latest news at:

 

Website: http://www.seether.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/seether

Twitter: http://twitter.com/seether

 

To keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest entertainment news and reviews in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

‘The Prodigal Son’ Is An Album To Which Cooder’s Fans Will Want To Return Time And Again

Courtesy: Fantasy Records

Ry Cooder is scheduled to release his brand new solo album The Prodigal Son this Friday.  The 11-song record is a nice *ahem* return for the veteran musician.  It is a 50-minute collection of songs that will easily appeal not only to Cooder’s fans and those of Buena Vista Social Club, but to blues aficionados, folk music fans and music lovers in general.  In other words, no doubt it will appeal to music lovers across the board.  That is thanks to musical arrangements and lyrical content throughout that is more than certain to keep listeners of all ages engaged and entertained.  That is clear right from the album’s outset in the album’s opener ‘Straight Street.’  It will be discussed shortly.  The album’s title track, which is essentially its midway point, also serves to support the noted statements of its appeal.  It will be discussed later.  Cooder and company’s cover of Blind Roosevelt Graves’ gospel standard ‘I’ll Be Rested When The Roll Is Called’ is one more example of what makes this record such widely appealing offering.  When it is considered along with the album’s other works, the end result is a record that is powerful both musically and lyrically and deserves without doubt to be added to any critic’s list of the year’s top new blues albums if not even the year’s top new albums overall.

Ry Cooder’s new full-length studio recording The Prodigal Son is a powerful new offering that will easily appeal to listeners of all ages and tastes.  That is thanks to the pair of its musical and lyrical content alike as is evidenced right from the album’s outset in ‘Straight Street.’  The gospel standard – originally composed and recorded by Blind Roosevelt Graves – gains a powerful new life in its presentation here thanks to its arrangement.  The arrangement’s foundation is formed through a gentle combination of mandolin, fiddle and percussion that is more folksy and country-esque than the simple piano and vocal arrangement used by The Pilgrim Travelers in their original 1955 take on the song.  At the same time though, Cooder and company’s take on the arrangement is still entertaining with its sort of 1960s r&b sort of vibe.  When that updated, gentle flowing take on the song is coupled with the song’s lyrical content, which centers on a person making some important positive changes in life, it makes the song in whole even more emotional than The Pilgrim Travelers’ original.  It honestly comes across as a song that could be included in some seasonal drama’s soundtrack as Cooder sings, “Well I used to live on Broadway/Right next to a liar’s house/Well what a fool I was/My number was self righteousness/Oh don’t you know/Had very little guide amount/(I better move) so I moved/And I’m living on straight street now.”  Straight Street here could be interpreted as a physical street, though odds are it is in reality a metaphor for living the straight and narrow.  Keeping that in mind, that positive message of making positive changes in life, coupled with the updated, deeply emotional take on the song’s arrangement makes the song a clear example of what makes The Prodigal Son a welcome return for Cooder (after six years with no new music) and a work that boasts wide appeal.  It is just one of the songs that shows what makes the album so surprisingly enjoyable.  The album’s title track is another example of what makes The Prodigal Son a solid new effort from Cooder.

The Prodigal Son’s title track stands out musically because while it is another very bluesy work, it doesn’t attempt to rehash the sound created in the four songs that come ahead of itself.  The percussion line and guitar that collectively make up the song’s first 30 seconds are nice touches as they do a lot to set the stage for the song.  The song that follows is just as certain to keep listeners engaged with its easy comparison to songs from The Blind Boys of Alabama (and to a lesser extent, Johnny Cash).  It’s a nice change of pace that in itself is more than enough reason to hear this song.  When it is coupled with the song’s lyrical content, the two items clearly show why the song in whole is another key addition to Prodigal Son.  The song’s lyrical content literally tells the biblical story of the Prodigal son, just with a little bit of an added kick.  In other words, it’s not preachy, but still tells the story in a way that is certain to appeal to any listener.  On the same level, it works directly in concert with the rest of the album’s theme of personal and spiritual revival of sorts.  It’s another reminder that one can turn one’s life around and get things on track that will also entertain listeners at the same time.  Keeping this thought in mind, it’s clear why this original addition to Prodigal Son is so critical to the album overall.  Even with this in mind, it still is not the last of the album’s most standout entries.  Cooder’s cover of Blind Roosevelt Graves’ standard ‘I’ll Be Rested When The Roll is Called’ is another key addition to the record.

Originally composed with his brother Uaroy, this composition is a simple song about that life eternal that comes after death.  While Cooder and company’s arrangement builds on the original composition’s instrumentation, it also stays very close to its source material.  Instead of a guitar and tambourine, which were used in Graves’ original work, Cooder and his fellow musicians here opted for a banjo, tambourine and drums.  Of course there are also additional harmonies added thanks to the fact that there are more performers here; harmonies that add so much to the song.  Either way, its arrangement still pays a wonderful tribute to its source material that even today’s more hardcore purist will certainly appreciate.  The song’s lyrical content will impress listeners just as much because it, too sticks to its source.  Cooder sings here to Graves’ original lines, “I’ll be rested when the roll is called/I’ll be rested in the kingdom of heaven/No more shoutin’ when the roll is called/I’ll be rested in the kingdom of heaven/No more sorrows when the roll is called/Meet my mother when the roll is called/Meet my elders when the roll is called.”  There are plenty of refrains within each line, of course.  So these lines are the core of the song.  Keeping this in mind, there is so much positive here.  When the positive vibes from these lines (and musical content) joins with the positive vibes in the previously discussed songs — and even those songs not noted here – the overall positive presentation in this album makes it a record that, in whole, to which any listener will want to return time and again.

When it hits store shelves and online outlets this Friday, Ry Cooder’s new album the Prodigal Son will be the veteran musician/producer’s first new album in six years.  Considering that much time has passed between this forthcoming record and his last – 2012’s Election Special – this record proves it was worth the wait.  That is thanks to a mix of original compositions and covers that will most certainly appeal to blues aficionados and gospel purists alike.  The lyrical theme of revival and personal betterment that runs throughout the record makes it even more engaging.  The pairing of those elements together throughout the album makes it a presentation in whole that is easily one of the year’s top new blues albums without a doubt, and an album to which listeners will want to return time and again.  It will be available this Friday, May 11 in stores and online via Fantasy Records (the same label responsible for Prophets of Rage’s debut album).  More information on The Prodigal Son is available online now along with all of Ry Cooder’s latest news and more at:

 

 

 

Website: http://www.rycooder.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/rycooderofficial

Twitter: http://twitter.com/rycooder

 

 

 

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it.  Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

‘Soulrocker’ Will Entertain And Inspire Audiences Of All Ages

Courtesy: Fantasy Records

On Friday, June 3^rd Michael Franti and Spearhead will release their latest album Soulrocker.  The group’s ninth full-length studio recording, it is also one of this year’s top new albums overall.  It proves this with ease from beginning to end of its thirteen song, fifty-two minute run.  It does so both through the infectious grooves that make up the album’s musical foundation and its constantly positive lyrical themes.  One of the songs that serves as a prime example of the impact of that mix is the album’s lead single ‘We Are All Earthlings.’  It upbeat sound and its lyrical message of unity make it a song that will put a smile on very listener’s face, joy in their hearts, and a beat in their feet that they won’t want to end.  ‘Still Standing’ is another example of what makes this record stand out.  Its musical arrangement is just as infectious.  What’s more it doesn’t just recycle the sound presented in any of the album’s other songs.  The positive lyrics, which center on defying the odds, adds even more enjoyment to the song.  Last but hardly least of note in this record is ‘Once A Day.’  This song was previously released as part of the duo’s Once A Day EP, which featured various mixes of the song.  While the song presented here is just one mix of the song it is still just as infectious as its counterparts both on that EP and on this record.  That is mainly in reference to the song’s musical arrangement.  Its lyrical theme is very much in the same vein as the album’s lead single.  It promotes spreading love among the world’s people even if doing it just “once a day.”  It is just one more example of what makes Soulrocker stand out in this year’s field of new releases.  It is hardly the last song that could be cited in showing what makes Soulrocker rock.  Any of the album’s remaining ten songs not noted here could just as easily be cited in that argument.  All things considered Soulrocker proves in the end with its mix of musical and lyrical content to be one of 2016’s top new albums overall.

Michael Franti and Spearhead’s upcoming album Soulrocker is one of 2016’s top new albums overall.  It is an album that presents an act that is still at the top of its game.  That is clear from the beginning to the end of the thirteen song, fifty-two minute album.  That is thanks to a solid mix of infectious musical arrangements and optimistic lyrical themes.  One of the songs included in the album that best exemplifies the effect of that mix is the album’s lead single ‘We Are All Earthlings.’  The song’s infectious beats will get any listener on his or her feet.  What’s more it’s not just another standard bass heavy EDM composition either.  Franti uses an acoustic guitar as the foundation of that composition.  It remains present throughout the course of the song’s nearly four-minute run time and is never overpowered at any point in the song.  The balance of the two elements together makes the song’s musical arrangement a composition that will put a smile on any listener’s face with ease.  In the same vein the song’s lyrical theme will just as easily send positive vibes through listeners.  Franti sings in this song, “We are all earthlings/And we share the air we breathe/We’re all made from heaven’s seeds/And we are all earthlings.”  That is just in the song’s lead verse.  He goes on to sing in the song’s second verse, “We are all earthlings/From the cities to the mountains/And the deserts/And the deep blue sea/to the palaces and the prisons/And the paradises that I see/That we are all earthlings.”  Franti leaves no doubt as to the message being delivered.  And in an age when this world has become so divided it is a message from which everyone would benefit in hearing.  That positive message joins with the song’s equally upbeat musical arrangement to make the song in whole a composition that is one of Soulrocker’s best works.  It is one of the best examples of what makes Soulrocker one of 2016’s top new albums overall.  It is hardly the only song that serves that argument.  ‘Still Standing’ is another example of what makes this record stand out.

‘We Are All Earthlings’ is a prime example of what makes Soulrocker one of 2016’s top new albums overall.  Its upbeat musical arrangement and its positive lyrical content work together to make it a composition that will put a smile on listeners’ faces, and warmth in their souls.  It is a composition that the whole world needs to hear especially in this day and age.  It is just one example of what makes Soulrocker…well…rock.  ‘Still Standing’ is another example of what makes this record stand out so proudly.  The song’s musical arrangement establishes a solid foundation for the song.  That is due to the mix of its electronic and acoustic elements.  The acoustic elements include bongos and Franti’s own work on acoustic guitar.  The electronic element is largely keyboard driven.  What’s really interesting here is the balance of each noted element.  Each part is expertly balanced with the others from beginning to end.  The end result is an arrangement that even in its simplicity is just as infectious as that of ‘We Are All Earthlings’ and any of the album’s other songs.  The song’s lyrical content adds even more depth to the song thanks to its positive lyrical theme.  It is a theme to which every listener of every age can relate at those many difficult times in life.  He sings here, “There was a time just the other day/When I was on the ground lookin’ up sayin’/Please God listen to the words I say/Show me a sign/I wanna change my way/No more no wait/I want life to begin/I want to start this minute all over again/Next train comin’ my way/I’m gonna jump right in/And leave like yesterday.”  He goes on to sing in the song’s chorus, “It’s been a long, long road this way/But I’m still standing today/And I don’t care what anybody say/Cause I’m still standing today.”  Who hasn’t been in that position of desperation, wishing they could go back wishing they could just go back and start certain parts of life again?  Franti’s subject goes on to sing in the song’s second verse of having found clarity of mind and direction.  In turn he declares that he is moving forward in life, jumping on that train with happiness in his heart.  It is a story from which listeners, again, of all ages can take something.  Again, that positive message, when partnered with the song’s expertly balanced yet simple musical arrangement, the two elements together make the song in whole yet another piece that will entertain audiences and inspire them at the same time.  It is still not the last song that does this.  ‘Once A Day’ will entertain and inspire listeners just as much as ‘We Are All Earthlings’ and ‘Still Standing.’

‘We Are All Earthlings’ and ‘Still Standing’ are both key examples of what makes Soulrocker one of 2016’s top new albums overall.  Both songs easily entertain and inspire audiences with their mix of musical arrangements and lyrical themes.  While both songs use that mix to show what makes Soulrocker so impressive they are not the only songs on this album that do so.  ‘Once A Day’ impresses and entertains listeners just as much as those previously noted songs.  The song’s reggae/hip-hop hybrid sound serves as the song’s foundation, with Franti of course at the heart of it all on guitar.  The song’s musical content is just one part of what makes it stand out so much.  Its lyrical content is just as important to its whole as its musical content.  Its message in question is another message of togetherness and spreading love around the world.  Sure, it sounds hippie-esque.  But again considering the current state of the world, it is a message that everybody should hear.  Franti sends that message as he sings, ““You never know what the world is gonna show you/It ain’t up to you/You always think it’s gonna happen to another person/And it’s never ever gonna happen to you/You got your friends/Got your money/Got your family/Got your honey/You think you got a million days/But then life comes along/And it knocks you right down/To the ground/And that’s why I say that/Everybody oughtta hug somebody/At least once a day/And everybody oughtta kiss somebody/At least once a day/Everybody’s gonna miss somebody/At least once a day/And everybody gotta love somebody/Everyday.”  He goes on to sing in the song’s chorus, “And we all will rise up/Spread your wings and fly/We all will rise up. From there Franti and Spearhead rap in the song’s second verse “The purpose of life is to live a life full of purpose/And so don’t ever take for granted what the spirit has given you/in the first verse/You might never get a second verse/The same rehearsal/You can’t put it in reverse/So just believe in yourself/Don’t let nobody be a negative/Tell you what to do.” Regardless of one’s age, this is a message that every person should take to heart in his or her everyday life. Both verses together compose a message that is far too rare in the mainstream music industry today. The song’s infectious reggae and hip-hop-infused sound adds even more enjoyment to the song, too. It is a sound that makes it a perfect fit on any Top 40 A/C station across the country and would likely be just as welcome, too. The positive, uplifting message is sure to make it just as welcome at said stations.  It is just one more example of what makes Soulrocker stand out so starkly in this year’s field of new albums. Audiences can hear the song for themselves online now via Michael Franti and Spearhead’s official YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gowi31zGyQA.  Together with the other noted songs and those pieces not directly noted, the album in whole proves to be one of 2016’s top new albums overall.  It is an album that every listener of every age should hear upon its release this Friday.

Michael Franti and Spearhead’s new album Soulrocker is one of 2016’s top new albums overall.  It is a record that every listener of every age should hear at least once if not more times.  That is due in part to the infectious grooves established in each one of the album’s musical arrangements.  The songs’ positive lyrical themes add even more depth and appreciation to the album.  All things considered Soulrocker proves in the end to be a record that deserves a spot on any critic’s list of this year’s top new albums overall.  It will be available in stores and online this Friday, June 3^rd.  More information on Soulrocker is available online now along with all of Franti and Spearhead’s live dates, news and more at:

 

 

Website: http://www.michaelfranti.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/michaelfranti

Twitter: http://twitter.com/michaelfranti

 

 

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it  Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.

Franti And Spearhead’s New EP Will Make All Of America Rise Up

Courtesy: Fantasy Records

There’s a lot of negativity in the world today. That’s obvious just sitting and watching the news each day. Considering all of that negativity it’s safe to say that the world is in dire need of something about which to feel good. Enter veteran duo Michael Franti and Spearhead. The duo released its new “EP” Once A Day Rise Up early last December. The eight-song disc was marketed as an EP. But for all intents and purposes it is more akin to a maxi-single than an EP. That is because all eight of its featured tracks are just different variants of the same song. What’s truly interesting about the record is that all things considered it is still a presentation that despite having been released a couple of months ago is just as uplifting now as it was in its original release. What’s more it will still be just as uplifting in the year and years to come, too. Keeping that in mind, Once A Day Rise Up is an EP that everyone should have in their personal music library.

Michael Franti’s new “EP” Once A Day Rise Up is a collection that every person should have in her or her own personal music library. The main reason for this is the various takes on the uplifting song and its positive lyrical content. the EP features eight different takes on the hit song, which for all intents and purposes makes it more of a maxi-single than EP. but that is beside the point. What is truly important here is the positive message and vibe presented in the song. Franti sings in this song, “You never know what the world is gonna show you/It ain’t up to you/You always think it’s gonna happen to another person/And it’s never ever gonna happen to you/You got your friends/Got your money/Got your family/Got your honey/You think you got a million days/But then life comes along/And it knocks you right down/To the ground/And that’s why I say that/Everybody oughtta hug somebody/At least once a day/And everybody oughtta kiss somebody/At least once a day/Everybody’s gonna miss somebody/At least once a day/And everybody gotta love somebody/Everyday. This is a message from which the entire world could really benefit especially nowadays. That positive message is just one part of the song’s positive outlook that makes it worth the listen. Franti goes on to sing in the song’s chorus, “And we all will rise up/Spread your wings and fly/We all will rise up. From there Franti and Spearhead rap in the song’s second verse “The purpose of life is to live a life full of purpose/And so don’t ever take for granted what the spirit has given you/in the first verse/You might never get a second verse/The same rehearsal/You can’t put it in reverse/So just believe in yourself/Don’t let nobody be a negative/Tell you what to do.” Regardless of one’s age, this is a message that every person should take to heart in his or her everyday life. Both verses together compose a message that is far too rare in the mainstream music industry today. The song’s infectious reggae-infused sound adds even more enjoyment to the song, too. It is a sound that makes it a perfect fit on any Top 40 A/C station across the country and would likely be just as welcome, too. The positive, uplifting message is sure to make it just as welcome at said stations. Audiences can hear the song for themselves online now via Michael Franti and Spearhead’s official YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gowi31zGyQA.

It was previously noted that Michael Franti and Spearhead’s new song ‘Once A Day’ is a piece that is both welcome and needed now more than ever. That is because of its infectious reggae-infused sound and its uplifting lyrical mesage. This applies just as much in the song’s Love Life Mix. What makes this take on the song so interesting is its musica approach. The song’s lyrical content is delivered much in the same fashion as in its original radio edit. Keeping that in mind, the song’s musical content plays a far more important part here than its lyrical content and delivery. The guitar line that is used as the song’s basis in the original song is replaced here by a light keyboard line. It’s not one of those full-on EDM style keyboard parts either. Rather it is just subtle enough to get in listeners’ heads and have them humming along when it plays and even at other random times. There is even something that sounds like a sample of rapper Lil John incorporated into the song to add to its flare. This critic could easily be wrong. But it certainly sounds like him. It would be interesting (having to work this song without any liner notes–another reason for having the physical versus the digital) to find out if it is in fact him. It’s a good addition to any DJ’s lineup considering all of this. The positive vibes generated by the song’s musical content and its equally positive, uplifting message certify this even more. Audiences can hear the song’s Love Life Mix online now via Franti and Spearhead’s official YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOZ1tra1aXI.

Both the Radio Edit and Love Life Mix of ‘Once A Day’ are their own enjoyable takes on the song. They each prove in whole to be compositions that would be just as welcome in America’s clubs as the nation’s Top 40 A/C stations (if it isn’t already spinning at said stations). While both renditions prove to be equally enjoyable presentations of said song they are hardly the only versions that prove its value in American (and potentially even world) culture today. It is also presented in a Cutmore Club Mix/Radio Edit. That take on the tune presents it in its purest possible club setting possible. Its original take is updated with a full-on EDM sound complete with flowing keyboard line, drum machine and more. The upbeat, infectious groove generated in this remix will not only put a smile on listeners’ faces but have them dancing and singing along happily. They collectively make it a song that is even more certain to stick in listeners’ ears and heads long after it ends, which is a very good thing. That means it will have listeners coming back to it time and again just as much as the song’s original take, its Love Life Mix and every other take on the song. The song is streaming online now via Franti and Spearhead’s official YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RWrmCjPLctw. Together with the song’s Love Life Mix and its original Radio Edit, all three takes on the songs show in their own way clearly why Once A Day Rise Up EP is a welcome new collection of remixes of Franti and Spearhead’s new song. One would be remiss to ignore the other remixes included in the disc. Each presents its own different mix that is sure to entertain audiences in its own original fashion. Altogether all eight mixes make this EP/maxi-single a collection that any Top 40 station should have in its library just as much as any listener.

Michae Franti and Spearhead’s new EP Once A Day Rise Up is a collection of remixes that every Top 40 A/C station should have in its library (and playlist) just as much as any listener. That is thanks largely to the eight different takes on the pair’s hit song ‘Once A Day.’ It is interesting that the collection is considered an EP since all eight compositions are different takes on the same song. Considering that they are all based on the same song, it might be better to call this collection a maxi-single than an EP. Regardless it is still a collection that proves to be quite the entertaining mix of song stylings. Altogether they prove to be a collection that every Top 40 A/C station should have in its library just as much as any listener with the infectious grooves presented in each song and the echoing of its uplifting lyrical theme. All things considered, Once A Day Rise Up shows in the end to be one of the most welcome collections of songs to come along in a long time in any genre regardless of whether it be an EP or maxi-single. It is available now in stores and online. More information on this release is available online now along with all of Michael Franti and Spearhead’s latest news, tour dates and more at:

Website: http://www.michaelfranti.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/michaelfranti

Twitter: http://twitter.com/michaelfranti

To keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://www.facebook.com/philspicks and “Like” it. Fans can always keep up with the latest sports and entertainment reviews and news in the Phil’s Picks blog at https://philspicks.wordpress.com.