Family Entertainer SaulPaul Takes Top Honors In Phil’s Picks’ List Of 2021’s Top New EPs

Posted on December 1, 2021 by philspicks

It’s hard to believe but 2021 is officially only four weeks from its big finale. One can only hope that moving forward from here into 2022, that sooner rather than later, we’ll finally be rid of this COVID-19 crap and life can finally go back to what it was. Time will tell. In the meantime, this critic has checked over his calendar for the year’s waning weeks, and surprisingly, there are no more new EPs to go through for the year. That means it is finally time to start in on this year’s “best of” year-ender lists. Of course, as in every year past, the very first of those lists comes in the form of the smallest of the music releases noted.

This year’s list of new EPs features new releases from at least one relatively well-known figure and a number of others who are either up-and-coming or semi-established. They run the gamut from family music to pop to rock and metal to even some southern rock/country. These lists are never easy to finalize because even among the EPs there is so much to appreciate musically and lyrically. That was taken into full consideration with this list, too. Those who have followed this critic’s ramblings for years on end, know how the lists work. For everyone else, they work as such: Instead of just 10 new offerings, this list is composed of 15 titles. The top 10 are the best of the best while the following five are honorable mention titles. This is not a stab at those releases or the acts that released them, either. Far from it. The whole purpose is to give those extras their due credit, too.

So without any further ado, here for your consideration is Phil’s Picks Top 10 New EPs of 2021.

PHIL’S PICKS 2021 TOP 10 NEW EPS

SaulPaul – OK To Be Different
Gabriel & The Apocalypse – Alpha Transcendence
Decent Criminal – Decent Criminal
The Mercy Kills – New Rule
Dirkschneider & The Old Gang – Arising
Repentance – Volume 1 – Reborn
All Hail The Yeti – Within The Hollow Earth
Kulick – Sitting in a Quiet Coffeehouse
Blue Eyed Christ – World on Fire Remixes
Zero Theorum – The Killing II
Sydney Sherwood – Headspace
Christopher Shayne – Ten High
20 Watt Tombstone – Year of the Jackalope
Post Death Soundtrack – Pathless Land
Black TarPoon – The Thad

That’s it for this year’s top new EPs. Thanks goes out to all of the firms that sent out this great music and so much more. No offense is meant to any act left out. For instance Of Mice & Men released a trio of new EPs this year, but they ended up as the new album, Echo, so that album is up for consideration among this critic’s top new hard rock/metal albums of the year. Even more year-enders are on their way as the last days of the year start to wind down, so stay tuned!

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.

Triple Rainbow Announces New Album Details; Premieres Album’s Lead Single, Video

Posted on November 19, 2021 by philspicks

Family music act Triple Rainbow will release its debut album this winter.

The band is scheduled to release its debut album, You Are Magic Jan. 21 through indie label Brave New People. In anticipation of the album’s release, the band — composed of the father/daughter trio of Jared Mees and his daughters July and Piper — debuted its new single, the album’s title track and its video Friday.

The musical arrangement featured in the new single is a light, flowing work. Its simple use of vocals and guitar alongside drums and tambourine gives the song a subtle kindie-pop style sound and stylistic approach.

The lyrical theme that accompanies the song’s musical arrangement delivers a message encouraging young listeners to use their imaginations. It additionally encourages those audiences to take pride in themselves for who they are and in their creativity.

The video was captured in what has to be assumed to be the family’s back yard. The visuals, including what is assumed to be one of Mees’ daughters in a race car, and another pretending to be an astronaut, are meant to help translate the noted messages.

More information on Triple Rainbow’s new album, single, and video is available along with all of the group’s latest news at https://www.instagam.com/triplerainbow.

SaulPaul’s New EP Is Not Different From Other Family Music Records, But That’s ‘Okay’

Posted on May 17, 2021 by philspicks

Family entertainer SaulPaul released his latest studio recording, Okay To Be Different over the weekend. The seven-song EP is not exactly different from other recordings released this year within the family music realm, but that is not a bad thing in this case. As a matter of fact, it makes it just as enjoyable as its counterparts. The similarities between this record and others in the family music realm are shown in large part through the EP’s lyrical themes, which will be discussed shortly. The musical content featured throughout the EP makes for its own share of interest here. It will be discussed a little later. The songs’ sequencing rounds out the record’s most important content. It will also be discussed later. Each item noted here is important in its own way to the whole of Okay To Be Different. All things considered, they make the record deserving of a spot among the best of this year’s new EPs.

SaulPaul’s brand new EP, Okay To Be Different is a strong new offering from the veteran family entertainer. Its appeal comes in large part through its lyrical themes. The themes in question are all positive, uplifting messages. As SaulPaul explained that in his own words in a recent interview, “This album is all about the heart and mindset. My goal is to inspire kids to celebrate their individuality through acceptance of others and self-confidence. If I had to describe each song with one word, I’d list them as Joy. Hope. Heart. Friendship. Energy. Inspiration. Motivation. The basic message is to love yourself and love others.”

The message of self confidence most recently came in the EP’s single, ‘Ace It.’ It encourages listeners to do their best in life and school. He reminds listeners that the best way to do even relatively well in life is by doing their best in school, even pointing out that yes, school should be treated just like a job. This is a message that every parent uses with his/her child(ren) and is thankfully echoed here. So for him to echo that message, it vindicates parents, and hopefully will get young people to finally pay attention and take pride in what they do in school and life.

The message of self confidence is present not just in ‘Ace It,’ but also in ‘Be Myself.’ This song also delivers a message of self confidence and knowing that – as the chorus states – “I can be anything.” He tells young listeners that they need to stand tall when they look in the mirror and knowing they can go a long way, “Like Moana.” That reference to the hugely popular Disney flick will generate its own share of enjoyment. Considering that Moana’s story was also about self confidence and personal growth, it makes the reference a great fit that listeners of all ages will appreciate. The overall message here is just one more way in which the EP’s positive, uplifting lyrical content proves so important.

On yet another note, ‘Just Call’ delivers a message centered on the importance of friendship. The song’s subject tells his friends to “call me/call me/Call/And I’ll be right there/If you need help/You know who to call/’Cause you know the reason why/We’ve been through it all.” The message is direct here. It encourages young listeners to tell their friends that they will be there and ready to help. Yes, people do grow apart over the years, but even as new friendships might form over the years, we should still effort to be there for friends new and/or old alike. This is another great, uplifting message. It is one more example of the importance of the lyrical themes featured throughout SaulPaul’s new EP. When it is considered along with the themes featured in the other noted songs and the rest of the record’s entries, the whole forms a solid starting point for Okay To Be Different.

Building on the foundation formed by the lyrical themes is the musical content featured throughout the EP. Between SaulPaul‘s mumble rap approach here, the voice modulation that is so common in so much rap, hip-hop, and pop, the musical content featured here holds its own against anything from SaulPaul’s more well-known mainstream counterparts. The steady beats and the keyboards add their own touch to the appeal of the EP’s overall musical content, too. The use of the marching snare drums in ‘Champions’ is another subtle, but welcome touch that shows the appeal of the record’s musical content. On yet another note, the more pop style approach and sound presented in ‘Call Me’ stands on its own merits. It really stands on its own merits alongside the EP’s other arrangements. All things considered, the musical content featured throughout OK To Be Different widens the EP’s appeal because it will appeal not just to children, but to grown-ups, too. The appeal of that content and the lyrical themes (many of which will resonate with adults just as much as children) makes this EP even more engaging and entertaining. It still is just a portion of what makes the EP stand out. The songs’ sequencing rounds out its most important elements.

The sequencing of Okay To Be Different is important because of the sense of relaxation and ease that it ensures among listeners. As already noted, the arrangements featured throughout the record are generally rap and hip-hop style compositions. However, a close listen reveals that even despite that, the sounds and general approaches to each arrangement are different from one to the next. ‘Best Day Ever’ for instance mixes a guitar line with the noted hip-hop approach for a whole that is infectious throughout its two-and-a-half-minute run time. ‘Be Myself,’ which immediately follows, is more a pure rap type work. The mumble rap approach here will appeal to fans of that rap subgenre that has become so popular in recent years. ‘Live and Learn (ft. Candy Coburn)’ is another more pop/hip-hop hybrid. That is obvious in the pairing of SaulPaul’s flow and the guitar. To a point, one can almost make a comparison here to works from Flipsyde. The pop approach continues in ‘Just Call’ before returning to a more pure rap/hip-hop vibe in the EP’s last three songs. Looking back at all of this, the short and simple is that the EP’s sequencing keeps things interesting by switching up the sounds and approaches to each song all while keeping the overall vibe relaxed and positive from song to song. When the positive impact of this element is considered with the equally positive impact of the record’s musical and lyrical content in general, the overall impact is that it collectively makes Okay To Be Different a presentation that is far more than OK.

SaulPaul’s brand new EP Okay To Be Different is a positive new offering from the veteran performer/rapper/songwriter. It offers plenty for listeners of all ages to appreciate. That is proven in part through its lyrical content. The lyrical themes featured in this record are positive, uplifting messages that are just as important and relevant for adults as they are for SaulPaul’s younger audiences. They are messages of friendship, self-confidence and hard work (and its payoff). The musical arrangements featured throughout the nearly 20-minute record (19 minutes, 50 seconds to be exact), will appeal just as much to adults as to younger listeners if not more so. Much of the EP’s musical content holds its own well against arrangements from SaulPaul’s counterparts within the mainstream rap, hip-hop, and pop communities. Staying on that topic, the manner in which the arrangements (and lyrical themes) were spread across the EP shows the importance of its sequencing. It ensures audiences’ maintained engagement and entertainment in its own right. Each item noted here is important in its own way to the whole of this record. All things considered, they make OK To Be Different far more than OK. Okay To Be Different is available now.

More information on SaulPaul’s upcoming virtual graduation ceremony, his new single, video, and EP is available along with all of his latest news at:

Website: https://saulpaul.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/saulpaul

Parents, Educators, Kids Alike Will Enjoy Kelli Welli’s Latest LP

Posted on January 25, 2021 by philspicks

Family music entertainer Kelli Caldwell (a.k.a. Kelli Welli) is scheduled to release her latest album this week. Let’s Go Pistachio!, her fifth studio recording, is a presentation that pre-schoolers, their parents and teachers alike will appreciate. That is due in part to its musical content, which will be discussed shortly. The lyrical content that accompanies the record’s musical material adds its own appeal to the presentation. It will be discussed a little later. The sequencing of that collective content puts the final touch to the record’s presentation, bringing everything full circle. Each item noted here is important in its own way to the whole of Let’s Go Pistachio! All things considered, they make the record a presentation that while that audiences might not go nuts over (yes, that awful pun was intended), but will still appreciate.

Kelli Caldwell’s latest album Let’s Go Pistachio! is a work that will appeal to a wide range of listeners. From pre-schoolers up to second graders, this record offers plenty to like. Parents and educators will equally appreciate the record as it proves itself a useful tool in helping raise and educate the noted younger audiences. Its musical content is just one of the aspects that makes it so appealing to audiences. The record’s musical content is so important to address because while the record was marketed as a country music style presentation, the 15 songs that fill out the record’s body offer more than just country music. Case in point is the musical arrangement featured in the album’s title track. That song’s arrangement features a distinct rockabilly style arrangement complete with solid time keeping and infectious guitar work. ‘I’m Proud of You,’ on another note does present a subtle country music influence in its arrangement. At the same time though, the song is more of a lullaby type composition that just so happens to have a touch of a country music influence. On yet another note, ‘Jumpin Beans’ is anything but country in its musical approach. Yes, there is a guitar and what sounds like either a banjo or mandolin (or possibly both), but the work in whole is more of a standard kindie pop style work than country composition. It’s just one more way in which the musical content featured in this album proves its importance. When taken into consideration with the arrangements at the center of songs, such as ‘We’re Almost There,’ ‘Growing Like A Stringbean,’ and maybe ‘Can’t Find My Appendix,’ the subtle variety in the record’s musical presentations becomes even more evident. That subtle variety makes even clearer, the importance of the album’s overall musical content.

While the musical content that makes up the body of Kelli Welli’s new album does its own share to make the record appealing, it is just one part of what makes the album stand out. The record’s lyrical content creates its own appeal for audiences. That is because it is even more diverse than the album’s musical content, and more clearly so at that. From celebrating the power of imagination through the use of something as simple as a hat in the album’s opener, ‘The Hat Song,’ to a silly song that plays on something as simple as alliteration (‘Peanut, Pinenut’), to a song that helps children learn about the importance of patience in ‘The Waiting Song’ and its companion ‘We’re Almost There,’ audiences get a wide range of topics here. That’s just a sampling of the diversity in the record’s lyrical diversity. ‘I’m Proud of You,’ which comes a little more than halfway through the album, will connect with grown-ups and children alike with its reminder that parents are proud of their children no matter what. ‘Tonight I’ll Be Brushing One Less Tooth’ is a song about a child losing his/her baby tooth and the excitement that the child in question feels in losing that tooth. Children will connect easily with this concept while grown-ups will be taken back to their own childhoods in hearing this work. Simply put, the album’s lyrical content shows great diversity from start to end, covering a lot of ground. That variety will help serve as a solid starting point for a variety of topics for parents and educators alike. To that end, it generates even more appeal for audiences. Together with the subtle changes in the musical arrangements, the two elements collectively make the record’s content reason enough in itself for children and grown-ups alike to hear this album. The overall content is still just a portion of what makes the album so appealing for audiences. The sequencing of that content puts the finishing touch to the album’s presentation.

The sequencing of Let’s Go Pistachio! is important to examine because of its role in keeping the album diverse in terms of its content. Additionally, the sequencing plays into the balance of the album’s energy throughout its run. As noted, the album covers a lot of ground in terms of its lyrical content. The sequencing ensures that the record’s lyrical content changes constantly from start to end, keeping things interesting enough. Also as noted, the record is being marketed as a country music style presentation, yet there are some subtle changes in the songs’ arrangements that audiences will catch when they listen closely. The painstaking efforts to sequence the album while keeping this in mind paid off. Audiences will agree to this. That subtle touch will certainly keep audiences entertained in its own right. There are hints of bluegrass here. There are more blatantly forward country music tunes, too. Additionally there are influences of other styles thrown in, as has also been noted, too. The change in those styles from beginning to end adds its own enrichment to the record, showing even more, the importance of the album’s sequencing. The sequencing of the album regards to its energies puts the final touch to this presentation. Over the course of the record’s first half, the energy moves at the right pace and in the right directions at all of the right points. It opens in upbeat fashion through its first two songs before pulling back in ‘She’s So Bright,’ the record’s third entry. The more relaxed energy carries on in ‘Growing Like A String Bean’ though that song’s arrangement is slightly more upbeat than that of ‘She’s So Bright.’ What audiences get in the latter, in other words, is a subtle return to the higher energy in which the album opened. It is not until ‘Tinkle Tinkle Toot,’ which come just past the record’s midpoint, that the energy pulls back again. From there the album’s energy remains relaxed until the album reaches ‘Kickin’ It With My Chicken.’ From there, the energy actually gets slightly more relaxed right up to the end of the record in ‘We’re Almost There.’ The overall picture is that of a record whose energy rises and falls at all of the right points, to the end that is keeps things just as interesting as the sequencing of the record’s content. When all of this is considered along with the content itself, the whole leaves listeners knowing by the record’s end, they have listened to a work that is another of this year’s top new family music albums.

Kelli Caldwell’s new album Let’s Go Pistachio! is a strong new offering from the up-and-coming family music entertainer. That is evidenced in part through its musical arrangements. The subtleties in the mostly country-style arrangements change things up just enough from one song to the next to keep listeners engaged and entertained through this presentation. The lyrical content that is featured alongside the record’s musical content adds even more appeal for listeners. That is because it presents its own expansive diversity. It covers a wide range of topics that parents and educators alike can use as starting points for lessons on the topics in question. The sequencing of all of that content and in regards to the record’s overall energy puts the finishing touch to the record’s presentation, ensuring in its own way, listeners’ engagement and entertainment. It makes certain that the record never becomes monotonous as it changes things from one song to the next. It brings everything full circle. When it is considered along with the record’s content, the whole of the album proves itself to be a pleasant new presentation from Caldwell that deserves its own spot on any critic’s list of the year’s top new family albums. Let’s Go Pistachio! is scheduled for release Friday. More information on the record is available along with all of Caldwell’s latest news at:

Website: https://www.kelliwelli.com

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/kelliwellikids

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.

Brighter Light Brigade Debuts ‘Kindness Is King’ Video

Posted on November 13, 2020 by philspicks

Independent music collective Brighter Light Brigade is celebrating World Kindness Day with its debut single.

The group premiered the song, ‘Kindness is King’ and its video Friday. The video is a home made style video that features people holding up signs with the song’s lyrics. Each shot comes from a different person in a different setting.

The musical content that accompanies the song’s lyrical content, which promotes unity and kindness among mankind, is a composition that will appeal to fans of Mavis Staples. That is evidenced through the use of the keyboards and guitar.

Dean Jones (Dog on Fleas) produced the song

More information on Brighter Light Brigade’s new single is available along with all of the fledgling group’s latest news at:

Website: http://www.brighterlightbrigade.com

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

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.

Musical Variety, Socially Conscious Lyrics, Strong Sequencing Makes ‘Hola Amigo’ Another Successful LP For 123 Andres

Posted on August 21, 2020 by philspicks

Courtesy: Sugar Mountain PR

Family music entertainer 123 Andres officially returned today with his latest album. The veteran singer-songwriter/performer is scheduled to release his new album Hola, Amigo Friday. The 10-song album continues to cement his place in the realm of family music thanks in part to its musical content. This item will be discussed shortly. Its positive lyrical themes add to its appeal and will be addressed a little later. The record’s sequencing rounds out its most important elements and will also be discussed later. Each item noted is important in its own way to the whole of this latest presentation from 123 Andres. All things considered, they make the album another easy candidate for a spot on any critic’s list of the year’s top new family music albums.

123 Andres’ latest full-length studio recording Hola, Amigo is another positive presentation from the veteran family entertainer. It is a work that audiences of all ages will appreciate. That is thanks in part to the album’s musical arrangements. From beginning to end of the 25-minute album, listeners are presented with a wide variety of musical styles. ‘Boomerang,’ which comes late in the album’s run, is an infectious hip-hop style composition. It is followed immediately after with the bluegrass style sound of ‘Hambone.’ The album takes another distinct turn from there with the reggae style approach of ‘Goodbye’ and ‘Hello, Friend,’ the album’s last two songs. The latter of the pair even adds in a touch of ska for good measure. This is especially interesting to note because the album opens on a similar stylistic note in its title track. ‘Keep It Up,’ the album’s second entry, offers listeners a touch of a southern-tinged soulful work at its base, yet again showing the album’s musical diversity. ‘Un Amor Tan Grande’ (which translates roughly to ‘Such A Great Love’) offers listeners a more pure Latin sound in its arrangement, even further showing the diversity in the album’s musical content. ‘Rainbow’ meanwhile presents audiences with a neo-folk sound that will appeal to older listeners. Between all of the arrangements noted here and the rest of the album’s musical arrangements not addressed here, it becomes increasingly clear just how many different styles of music are featured in this record and why that variety is so important to the album’s presentation. It will most certainly appeal to a wide range of listeners. It is just one part of what makes the album stand out, too. The record’s lyrical themes play their own pivotal part to the record.

The lyrical content featured throughout the body of Hola, Amigo is important to address because of the positive messages delivered throughout. Case in point is the lyrical theme at the center of ‘Boomerang.’ Its theme is that of anti-bullying. Guest artist Konshens The MC states right from the song’s outset, ‘Bullies never win.’ He notes in the song’s lead verse, “The words flow in the wind/Round and round/Like the circle/Ending up where they being/Give a smile/Get a smile/Be nice to your friend/And watch you friend be nice to you/The cycle never ends/Like hands ticking around the clock/Spin the wheel that never stops/Good things come back to you/When given from the heart/Love, peace and light is what I spread everyday/See whatever you say returns to you/Like a boomerang.” He continues in the song’s second verse, “Like the fetchin’ dog/That’s bringing the ball back/Your words have a way of returnin’ to you/Positive or not/But boomerangs are words are tossed/That travel far/ But are never lost/And come into your atmosphere/Now you understand it clear/every word we say/Holds a little bit of weight/They lift up or break down/Be careful what you say now/Using them for good things…cause whatever you say returns to you like a boomerang.” That last part of the second verse is a little difficult to understand sans lyrics sheet, but that aside, the song’s overall message is crystal clear. This is a work that reminds listeners that they need too be conscious of the words they use with others. What’s important here is that this message is important not just for children, but for adults, too. That is especially obvious considering who is in the White House and the effect that his words have had on the nation. He has made far too many people think it is okay to use hurtful words to others. Considering that, adults need to be reminded about the importance of their words just as much as their younger counterparts. It makes this song an unquestionably important part of this album, and just one of the album’s most important lyrical presentations. ‘Hambone,’ which immediately follows ‘Boomerang’ is a key lyrical presentation in its own right.

‘Hambone’ is important because it is a sociopolitically aware presentation. It addresses the current civil rights issues that are covering America right now. Guest artists Cathy Fink, Uncle Devin, and Lolita Walker sing in this song in a call and response presentation, “What were you holding in your hand/I was holding a big old sign/On your sign/What did it say/We want justice/We want change.” The group continues, “Black lives matter, yes they do/We have lots of work to do.” From there, the group proceeds to say the names of recent Arican-American victims of violence at the hands of law enforcement, including Trevon Martin, Tamir Rice, and George Floyd. The roll call of sorts takes up the second half of the song, reminding audiences of how many African-Americans have been victimized by the lesser element of America’s law enforcement community. That 123 Andres would take the time to join the current civil rights movement and do so in such a straight forward fashion will certainly connect with older listeners. At the same time, it will also serve as a starting point for adults to have a conversation with younger listeners about what is going on in the world today in regards to police brutality and race relations. It’s just as serious an issue as that of being careful of the words that we use. ‘Keep It Up’ is one more way in which the album’s lyrical themes prove pivotal to its presentation.

‘Keep it Up,’ which features a guest appearance by fellow family music entertainment act Sugarfree All Stars, is a work whose lyrical theme encourages listeners to not give up when things get difficult emotionally. This is yet another theme that is accessible for older listeners as well as younger audiences. The group sings in the song’s lead verse, “You’ve worked so hard/You’d better get some rest/This challenge isn’t over/here’s another test/And it feels hard/And it feels wrong/Why do you have to go through this when you’re so young/I have a friend who went through this, too/He told me to tell everyone/Especially you/Don’t give up/Keep it up/Fill your love with all the love around you that will make you strong/It’s okay to cry/but dry your eyes and sing your song.” The group continues in the song’s second verse, “You’ll realize/That you’re so strong/One day it will be you helping someone sing this song/You will stand up and fall again/You’ll understand this is the game/You have a song/Don’t lose your faith/We are your team/We’re here to stay.” This is a song that lyrically, will help any young listener feel better in those difficult emotional times. It is just as welcome and important an addition to 123 Andres’ new album as the other songs addressed here and the rest of the album’s entries. When it is considered with all of those songs, no doubt is left as to the importance of the album’s lyrical themes. They clearly play just as much an important part to the album’s presentation as the album’s musical variety. The two elements together, make the album a strong presentation in its own right. Even with the impact of the two elements together, there is still one more element to examine here – the album’s sequencing.

As has already been noted, the musical content presented in Hola, Amigo is varied. One could go so far as to say that considering the album’s overarching lyrical themes, that variety in musical styles plays into the bigger statement of this album, that of collectivity and unity. While that noted diversity is key in its own right, the varied styles also bring with them, different energies. The album’s title track/opener is a laid back reggae style piece that presents a relaxed energy. The energy picks up from there in a series of mid-tempo works that while stylistically different, still present a stable energy that will keep listeners engaged through this aspect. ‘Fly, Shine, Soar,’ which comes just after the album’s midpoint, ‘Rainbow’ breaks up the album’s energy, serving as the only point at which it really pulls back in its energy. The whole thing ends in the same relaxed, reggae style as it opened in ‘Hola, Amigo,’ essentially bringing everything full circle for the album both musically and in terms of the album’s energy. Simply put, the sequencing of Hola, Amigo ensures a stable energy presentation from start to end even as the album’s musical styles change from one to the next. When this is considered along with the impact of the album’s musical and lyrical content, all three elements join to make the album a presentation that is just as positive a presentation as any of this year’s other family music albums.

Family music entertainer 123 Andres’ new album Hola, Amigo is a powerful new presentation from the veteran performer/singer/songwriter. That is proven in part through the album’s musical content, which will appeal just as much to grown-ups as it will younger listeners. The same can be said of the album’s lyrical themes. They present messages that will resonate with listeners of any age. Some will even resonate even more with those older audiences than their younger counterparts. The record’s sequencing rounds out its most important elements. It gives audiences a variety of musical styles from one song to the next while also ensuring the album’s energy remains stable throughout at the same time. Each item noted here is important in its own way to the whole of the album. All things considered, they make the album yet another of the best of this year’s top new family music albums. It is available now. More information on Hola, Amigo is available along with all of 123 Andres’ latest news at:

Website: http://www.123andres.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/123conandres

Twitter: http://twitter.com/123conandres

To keep up with the latest entertainment reviews and news, go online to http://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.

Roger Day’s Latest LP Is A “Super” New Album

Posted on August 6, 2020 by philspicks

Courtesy: Sugar Mountain PR

Family entertainer Roger Day will release his latest album Invincible next week. The 10-song record is another enjoyable presentation for the whole family. While only his third full-length studio recording, it is another presentation that shows promise for his future. That is proven through the album’s musical arrangements and its lyrical themes. The album’s lead single/title track/opener is just one of the songs that serves to support the noted statements. ‘Big Picture,’ which comes late in the album’s run, is another way in which the album shows its strength. It will be discussed a little later. The same can be said of the album’s closer ‘Love Is My Super Power.’ It will also be addressed later. When each of the songs addressed here are noted along with the rest of the album’s work, the whole of the album proves to be its own “super” new offering from Roger Day.

Roger Day’s new album Invincible is another successful entry from the up-and-coming family entertainer that listeners of all ages will enjoy. As noted that is due to its musical arrangements and its lyrical themes. One of the songs that serves well to support that statement is the album’s opener/lead single/title track. The song’s arrangement is a catchy kindie-pop composition. It is grounded in its piano line. The use of the guitars and drums joins with the piano line to make the song The combination of Day’s singing and “spoken word” delivery adds a unique touch to the song that makes it even more interesting for audiences. The confidence in his delivery as he sings plays well into the song’s lyrical theme, which is accessible in its own right, to young listeners.

The theme of ‘Invincible’ is actually dual faceted. On one side, Day is promoting literacy in the song. That is obvious as he sings in the song’s lead verse, “When the bad guys got you cornered/And it looks like there’s no escape/There’s no need to wait/For superheroes anymore/I can save the day/Through the turning of the page/I’m invincible/It’s undeniable/I got a power that’s unbeatable/My imagination can knock down walls/nothing’s impossible/I’m unstoppable/Every puzzle is solvable/I can do anything at all/Through the pages of a book.” That message is continued in the song’s second verse, in which he singles, I can blast off in a jet pack/Or I can lift up a monstrous monster truck/Or be a secret agent/Picked by the President/I can crack the code/I can vanquish any foe.” He adds in the song’s third and final verse, “I start at the beginning/And then I read to the middle/I don’t’ stop/until I reach the end/So if you’re hanging off the cliff face/And the evil genius is closing in/Take a tip from me/You will be flying free/’Cause it’s a bird/No/It’s a plane/No/It’s the power of your brain.” Again, here is a song whose primary message is that is that of promoting literacy. On a related note, it also encourages listeners to use their imaginations. When children use their imaginations, that plays into their mental and emotional development. So that development and development of reading skills together are collectively key for every child. To that end, this dual pronged lyrical theme proves just as important to its whole as the song’s musical arrangement. When it is considered alongside the song’s upbeat musical arrangement, the whole makes the song a positive first impression from Day and his new album. It is just one of the album’s most notable songs. ‘Big Picture’ does is own part to show what makes Invincible a success.

Much as is the case with ‘Invincible,’ the musical arrangement at the center of ‘Big Picture’ is a kindie-rock composition that also boasts a little bit of a college rock sound. While the song’s guitar line guitar and drums form the foundation for the song’s arrangement, its bass line does its own share to make the arrangement engaging and entertaining. It adds welcome accents to the arrangement at fixed points, with the end result being a song in whole that is just as infectious as any of the album’s other musical works. It is just one part of what makes the song work. The song’s lyrical theme adds to its impact, too.

The lyrical theme featured in this song is another pro-educational statement. This time the statement is more in the vein of promoting science education. Day sings in the song’s lead verse, “Call me citizen scientist/I’m ready for adventure/My questions lead me everywhere/I unravel mysteries/I see the big picture/And I break it down/I can’t wait to investigate/I see the big picture/When I look around/I can’t wait to investigate.” He continues in the song’s second verse, “I might discover something unknown/Maybe an ecosystem/I use my magnifying glass/And see a whole new universe in my backyard.” He adds in the song’s third and finale verse, “I observe it, sketch it, write it all down/Measure it/Write it all down/Solve for X and I write it all down.” He even goes so far as to sing from the subject’s point, “It’s all out there waiting for a scientist like me.” This again is meant to come from the vantage point of a child, and it works well from this angle, too. Add in the push to promote science education, this lyrical theme proves to be its own positive. When this theme is joined with the song’s catchy musical arrangement, it becomes even clearer why this song helps to show why Invincible is another positive offering from Roger Day. It is just one more way in which the album proves its strength, too. ‘Love is My Super Power’ is yet another way in which the album proves itself well worth hearing.

‘Love Is My Super Power’ stands out as its musical arrangement is distinctly different from any of the album’s other arrangements. This song boasts a folk-rock/Americana style arrangement at its base. That style crosses with a touch of southern rock for a whole that will certainly keep a wide range of audiences engaged and entertained. The gentile nature of the song’s arrangement works well with its lyrical theme, which is a statement about the power of love; not romantic love but plutonic love.

Day sings in the song’s lead verse, “I can’t jump/Over buildings/I can’t see/Through a wall/I can’t lift up/My school bus/Or catch a star when it falls/But I’ve got something better/beating in my heart/It might not save the whole world/But it’s a pretty good place to start/Love is my super power.” He continues in the song’s second verse, “I can’t make a web/With the flick of my wrists/Or fly above people down below/Or turn myself invisible/Or be the star of my own show/But I’ve got something stronger/And you’ve got it, too/Together we can make the whole world shine like new/Let it shine/Let it shine/Let it shine.” There is no doubt left here that this is a song promoting love among the world’s people, and that while we may not be super heroes like in comic books, we still have the super power of love, which can impact the world just as much. It’s a powerful statement and one more way in which Invincible proves such an impressive presentation. When it is considered alongside the other songs noted here and the rest of the album’s works, the whole of the album unquestionably proves it deserves a place on any critic’s list of the year’s top new family music albums as much as those lists’ other entries. Invincible is scheduled for release Friday.

Roger Day was scheduled to perform live in Cary and Durham this past Spring, but the performances were postponed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Day has worked with the United Arts Council of Wake County for the past 20 years and has held workshops and assemblies at schools in Orange and Durham counties. He is scheduled to perform live in March at the Bond Park Amphitheater in Cary

More information on the album is available along with all of Roger Day’s latest news at:

Website: http://www.rogerday.com

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

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Koo Koo Kangaroo Debuts ‘My Jam’ Video

Posted on January 26, 2020 by philspicks

Courtesy: Sugar Mountain PR

Family music entertainers Koo Koo Kangaroo debuted the video for their latest single this week.

The duo debuted the video for its song ‘My Jam‘ Friday. The video’s debut comes two weeks after the pair debuted the single in its audio-only form. The video features the duo dancing alongside the Harlem Globetrotters to the song, and even taking some shots at the basket along the way.

Globetrotters player Hammer Harrison offered praise for the song in a recent interview.

“We’re big fans of the work Koo Koo Kangaroo does to help kids be active,” he said. “We hope that when kids and families hear the song, and watch the video, they are inspired to get up and get moving.”

Along with getting played at the Harlem Globetrotters’ games, ‘My Jam’ has also been getting spins at WXPN Kids’ Corner Radio in Philadelphia, PA. WXPN will host its annual Kindiecomm family music conference in April. Koo Koo Kangaroo is scheduled to take part in the conference.

‘My Jam’ is just the latest single to be released by Koo Koo Kangaroo. The duo also recently debuted the singles ‘Hot Sauce‘ and ‘Glitter.’ ‘Hot Sauce’ is lyrically, a song about…well…hot sauce, the food. The song’s musical arrangement throws back to the old school r&b sounds of Michael Jackson.

‘Glitter’ is just about glitter that is used in decorating. Its musical arrangement presents a more straight forward club/electronic sound.

All three songs are streaming now through Koo koo Kangaroo’s official Spotify channel. Audiences can hear those songs and others are the duo wraps up its current live schedule. The guys are scheduled to perform live Jan. 29 in Fresno, CA, Jan. 39 in Anaheim, CA and Jan. 31 in Camarillo, CA.

Each show is open to all ages. General Admission tickets are $15 and VIP passes are $40. Tickets and VIP admission are available here.

More information on Koo Koo Kangaroo’s music, concerts and more is available online at:

Website: http://www.kookookangaroo.com

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/KooKooKangaRoo

Koo Koo Kangaroo Debuts New Single, ‘My Jam’

Posted on January 12, 2020 by philspicks

Courtesy: Sugar Mountain PR

Family music entertainers Koo Koo Kangaroo debuted their latest single this week.

The duo debuted its new song ‘My Jam‘ Friday. The upbeat dance tune, produced by Neil Zumwalde is getting national attention thanks to the Harlem Globetrotters, who have been playing the song lately at its games.

Globetrotters player Hammer Harrison offered praise for the song in a recent interview.

The video of which Harrison spoke is in the works and will debut later this month.

‘Glitter’ is just about glitter that is used in decorating. Its musical arrangement presents a more straight forward club/electronic sound.

All three songs are streaming now through Koo koo Kangaroo’s official Spotify channel.

More information on Koo Koo Kangaroo’s music, concerts and more is available online at:

Website: http://www.kookookangaroo.com

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

Twitter: http://twitter.com/KooKooKangaRoo

The Not-Its’ New LP Will Keep Audiences Of All Ages Listening

Posted on April 4, 2016 by philspicks

Courtesy: Little Loopy Records

Late this winter kindie rock band The Not-Its released its latest full-length studio recording Are You Listening? The band’s sixth album, it comes a little more than two years after the release of its fifth album Raise Your Hand (2014). This ten-song record is not only a fun follow-up to that record but also some of the band’s best work to date, too. That is thanks in part to the album’s catchy pop punk sound. That is just part of what makes this record such a success. The album’s wide variety of lyrical themes is just as important to note as its musical foundation. The album’s sequencing rounds out its presentation. Each element is equally important in its own right. Altogether they make Are You Listening? a record that will make audiences of all ages want to listen.

The Not-Its’ new album Are You Listening? is a record that will make audiences of all ages want to listen to its ten songs. As a matter of fact after hearing this record it could even leave audiences of all ages wanting to listen to each of the band’s previous offerings, too. The main reason that it proves such an enjoyable record is its musical foundation. The foundation in question is formed by the catchy, pop punk sound that is present throughout the course of the album’s ten songs. In the world of mainstream music pop punk is very much limited to a specific audience in terms of its appeal. But there’s something about the way that the band—Sarah Shannnon (lead vocals), Danny Adamson (rhythm guitar, glockenspiel, vocals), Tom Baisden (lead guitar), Jennie Helman (bass, vocals), and Michael Welke (drums, percussion, synthesizer, vocals)—executes the songs on this album that makes their sound one that will appeal to a much wider spectrum of listeners than that of more mainstream pop punk acts. Maybe it’s in the songs’ instrumentation as with the near Ramones style sound of ‘Kid of the Week.’ It could be in the vocal arrangements, such as in the dual harmony in ‘Done With The Science Fair’ or maybe it’s both elements together such as in ‘Washington D.C.’ Regardless of which aspect applies, it can be said with certainty that from beginning to end, the album’s musical content serves as a solid foundation for The Not-Its’ new album. It is an element that is certain to keep audiences of all ages listening from beginning to end if only for that element. It is just one part of the album that will keep audiences listening. The album’s varied lyrical themes are just as important to the album’s presentation as its musical content.

The catchy, pop punk sound exhibited throughout the course of The Not-Its’ new album is in its own right hugely important to its presentation. That is because the manner in which the band executed each song sets the album’s sound apart from that of so many mainstream pop punk acts. The manner in which the ban executed the album’s song makes it more accessible to a wider audience than say those mainstream pop punk albums that are obviously aimed more at teens and tweens. Even with its importance it is just one part of what makes this record stand out. The wide array of musical themes presented throughout the record’s twenty-nine minute run time is just as important to the album as its musical content. The lyrical themes presented here include the silly (‘Brain Freeze’ and ‘Grandad is a Spy’, the educational (‘Done With The Science Fair’), the motivational (‘Don’t Fear The Dentist’) and even the deep (‘Washington D.C.’). The latter of those songs is among the most important of the album’s varied lyrical themes. The main reason for that is that while educational on the surface, it clearly serves a much deeper purpose than just educating. That is clear as the band sings in the song’s chorus, “D.C./Do you hear me/D.C./Are you listening/D.C./Are you tuned in to me?” In the verse that follows there is mention of contacting representatives, speaking publicly about one’s views (essentially protesting) and basically being active in the political process. This is obviously way over younger listeners’ heads. So one can only imagine that this was aimed largely at older listeners while the song’s first half was aimed more at those younger listeners. Thinking about it, spitting the song in such seemingly blatant style was pretty smart. It ensured that it would be accessible to listeners of all ages. The first half would cite all of the sites that make the nation’s capitol so great while the second half encourages older audiences to get involved in the political process. Such a presentation, when set alongside the rest of the album’s other lyrical themes, makes the greater picture of the album’s lyrical content all the more entertaining for audiences of all ages. When those themes are set alongside the album’s catchy, pop punk sound the two elements come together to show even more clearly why this record stands out. It still is not the last remaining element to consider in examining why the album will keep audiences listening. The album’s sequencing rounds out its presentation.

The foundation established by the musical and lyrical content of Are You Listening? goes a long way toward keeping audiences of all ages listening to this album. While both elements are unquestionably important in their own right to the album’s presentation, the album’s sequencing cannot be ignored in its presentation. The album’s sequencing is so important to its presentation because it is what keeps the album’s energy moving throughout the course of the album. Older audiences will take greater note of this than younger listeners. But there is a clear, intentionally set sequence here in regards to the album’s energy. The album opens with a bang in ‘Dance With Me.’ ‘Done With The Science Fair’ follows with a gentle opening that eventually leads into a much higher-energy presentation. ‘Washington D.C. is very much the same stylistically speaking. It starts off with a decidedly reserved sound before really launching into the song’s more energetic core. The energy becomes more direct in the album’s next two offerings—‘Grandad Is A Spy’ and ‘Don’t Fear the Dentist.’ One can’t help but wonder if this is a tribute to Blue Oyster Cult’s Don’t Fear The Reaper. Older audiences will get that joke more so than younger listeners. Getting back on track, the band keeps the energy at just the right levels through the remainder of the album right up to the exhibiting more energy at times and then pulling it back just enough at others. The end result is a ten-song set that will keep audiences of all ages listening just as much for its balanced energy as for its musical arrangements and its varied lyrical themes and in turn another candidate for any critic’s list of the year’s top new children’s albums.

The Not-Its’ new album Are You Listening? is a record that will keep audiences of all ages listening. That is thanks in part to its musical foundation. The album’s catchy, pop punk sound will appeal to a much wider audience in this case than that of most mainstream pop punk acts. The album’s varying lyrical themes will keep audiences of all ages just as engaged. The album’s sequencing brings everything full circle. It keeps the album’s energy just right at all of the right moments. All three elements, when combined together, make The Not-Its’ new album not only an album that will keep audiences of all ages listening but also an album that is another candidate for a spot on any critic’s list of the year’s top new children’s albums. It is available now in stores and online and can be ordered direct via The Not-Its’ website at https://squareup.com/store/the-not-its/item/cd-are-you-listening. More information on this and the band’s other albums is available online now along with all of the band’s latest news and more at:

Website: http://www.wearethenot-its.com

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

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