Joonie, “Contrast”

What do you get when you come across an artist that has the sound of 70’s, 80s, and 90s R&B Soul with beautiful melodies and smooth vocals?  You get an artist named Joonie with a masterpiece of a sophomore album called, “Contrast”.

Calvin “Joonie” Gary, Jr. is a singer, songwriter, musician, arranger, and producer based out of Los Angeles, CA. He is also a multi-instrumentalist who plays most of the instruments on his latest album.

“Contrast” is the ultimate love album.  Songs like “Wish Her The Best (Delilah, Part 2)”, “No Tears” are songs about ending a relationship, however, they are written with such love and care that you can’t help but feel good when listening to them.   If someone were to leave you, you would want them to think and feel this way about you at the end of it all.  Joonie is such a gifted songwriter that he places the listener right in the midst of what he is singing about. “For You”, “Far Away”, “Official” and “Life’s Better” are a few of the many standouts of the album.

The vocal arrangements, instrumentation and production on “Contrast” are tight and effortless. This album has such a lovely sound and vibe to it that you can’t help but reminisce about the songs of the old days. Songs that actually have song structure and nuances that are missing in today’s music. Joonie is a true artist along the lines of Prince in that he produces, writes and arranges his own music. You should really check this album out and spread the word! This music deserves to be heard. Check out the music below and let us know what you think!

“Contrast” is available on iTunes and on his official website here and here.

Music Video: “For You” by Joonie

“Far Away” by Joonie

New Music: Carmen Rodgers – Stargazer

Singer, songwriter Carmen Rodgers has just released her new album, “Stargazer”!  Dallas TX native Rodgers who is currently based out of Atlanta, GA, has been blessing us with her sound for a few years now. You may mostly be familiar with her as part of The Foreign Exchange crew or you may have heard from her last two offerings, “Free” and “The Bitter Suite”, EP.  

Rodgers’ rich, full and soulful vocals stand front and center on each song of “Stargazer”.   She can sing anything and she proves it on songs like “Stay” and “Love Stories”.  These songs are the most beautifully arranged on the album.  Her voice soars along with a 14-piece string section in those songs and it is absolute heaven.  I loved that she incorporated this into her sound.  It just showcases her vocals even more.  Her lead single, “Heartless” is a banger and is what we have come to expect from her.  Soulful, funky vocals with a bumping track.  It’s very effective and has defined her sound overall.   “Beyond the Stage” is a nice groovy and smooth joint that is on constant repeat here at Soulster Vibes.  “Charge”, is a lovely duet featuring singer, songwriter, Anthony David.  It definitely should receive airplay on contemporary R&B radio.  Actually the whole album should receive airplay, but I digress.

“Stargazer” is a must-listen and such a well-rounded offering from Carmen Rodgers.  Another album from an indie artist that you can listen to straight through.  Support GOOD music people and go get this!  Also, she is currently touring in support of this album so be sure to check her out in a city near you.

If you already have heard “Stargazer”, share your experience below!

“Stargazer” by Carmen Rodgers is now available on iTunes, Amazon and CD Baby.

Official Carmen Rodgers Website

Carmen Rodgers and Anthony David performing, “Charge” in Atlanta, GA

Dangerfeel Newbies-Hariet

Hariet by Dangerfeel Newbies is a brilliant concept album inspired by the story of Mr. Dangerfield Newby, one of five African-Americans of the John Brown party.  I love music that entertains, inspires as well as teaches listeners something of value.  Dangerfeel Newbies is based out of Atlanta, GA and consists of Jamal Ahmad, (DJ) Mark Angel (DJ) and Darren Wagner (DJ, Keyboardist, Musician).

Hariet’s sound encompasses so many genres such as House, Soul, Funk, Jazz and a little Hip-Hop and it all flows together effortlessly.  When Hariet opens with the smooth jazz feel of“Hariet’s Theme” and goes right into the groovin’, “You Make Me Something” featuring Lamaj, you know you are about to embark on a wonderful wave of music.  Songs like, “Shine” featuring Mashan Da’Lyric,  and “Swinging with the New Jacks” are so melodically refreshing and uplifting.  They both either make you want to dance or nod your head to the rhythms in appreciation.  The world renowned vocalist and jazz artist, Julie Dexter is also featured in “I’ve Got To Live My Life”.  A lovely song about making a change, her voice and the track just take you away.  It’s just beautiful.

If you haven’t heard of them yet or you have and haven’t had the chance to check this album out, please just do it.  You will love this album.  It should serve as a collector’s item for all of the real music heads out there.  By the way,  take the time to research the rich history of Mr. Dangerfield Newby and his story.  This is a perfect example of music entertaining us and bringing somewhat obscure information about our history to the forefront.  Check out Hariet and let them know what you think!

Dangerfeel Newbies, Hariet is now available on iTunes

Dangerfeel Newbies Official Website

Dangerfeel Newbies, “Shine”

Dangerfeel Newbies, “Always With Me”

The Rebirth – Being Thru the Eyes of a Child

If you want to hear timeless music from a GREAT Soul/Jazz band, then look no further. The Rebirth is that band. They have just released their highly anticipated sophomore album, “Being Thru the Eyes of a Child”. Just like it’s predecessor, “This Journey In”, this album is such a classic piece of music.

The Rebirth is a seven member band that hails out of Los Angeles, CA and is led by producer, keyboardist and vocalist, Carlos “Loslito” Guaico. Members of The Rebirth are lead vocalist, Baskerfield Jones, Mark Cross (keyboards, vocals), Nikki Campbell (percussion), Patrick Bailey (guitar), Chris Taylor (drums, vocals), and Daniel Seeff (bass guitar). Their signature sound consists of jazz, soul and funk.

I was introduced to this band by hearing their single, “Everybody Say Yeah”, on a local radio station here in Atlanta (Jazz 91.9 FM WCLK) back in 2006. I became an instant fan then and made sure I attended one of their shows when they stopped in Atlanta. All I can remember was the cool vibe and so much awesome music from that show. It was crazy! I danced my butt off that night. That show was easily a good three hours but no one cared. We were encouraged to let go and feel the music..and we did just that. Since then their debut, “This Journey In” has been on repeat in my life’s soundtrack for years. I waited so long for this album and even heard rumblings of a break up at one point. But alas, The Rebirth returns and  releases this album.  It is certainly worth all of the waiting that their fans had to endure.

“Being Thru the Eyes of a Child” is a sonic kaleidoscope of rich vocals, crisp instrumentation and atmospheric sound effects that when pulled together brings the listener into a different dimension. Songs like, “Religion To Me”, “Caterpillar” and “By Design” are examples of this. Baskerfield Jones‘ soulful vocals are a perfect complement to the music. She adds her own swagger and funk to the lead single, “This Is Coming To?” and “Wasteland”. “Come on Over” showcases Jones’ vocal versatility and is so beautifully executed. Even though they have a lead vocalist, you still can’t help but feel that this is truly a band and there are no stand outs. The Rebirth is a band in every sense of the word. All work together and each member has talents that they bring to the table to make this band great. “Being Thru the Eyes of a Child” is definitely an album you can listen to straight through. Every song on here is SO good. I’m sure true music heads will find themselves going back and listening to the many nuances they provide in their sound.  Check them out and support this music.  If they roll through your city be sure not to miss them.

“Being Thru the Eyes of a Child” is available now on iTunes
The Rebirth Official Website

Check out the video for the first single, “This Is Coming To?”

 

New Music: Live Hart – Honesty

While doing my usual perusing for new music, I came across this lovely artist, Live Hart. She recently debuted her new album, Honesty and it pulls you in from the first track. Based out of Orlando, Florida, Live Hart is a singer, songwriter and guitarist, who’s sound is reminiscent of Tracy Chapman, Dionne Farris, India Arie and John Mayer.

Honesty is an uplifting and pure listen about hope and love. Feel good songs like the reggae tinged, “We Can Change The World” (one of my favorites on the album) offer hope, while songs like the rocking, “Take Me” and “Release” serves as empowerment anthems. Love is always at the heart of us all and songs like, “What is Love?” (love this track), gives you that and more. This album is a wonderful introduction to Live Hart. I look forward to hearing more from her and once you hear Honesty, I’m sure you will as well. Check her out and let Live Hart know your thoughts! Support GOOD music, people. This is it!

Honesty is available now on iTunes
Live Hart Official Website

Check out “What is Love?”  below:

 

Check out the video for the first single, “Please Don’t Say It’s Over” below:

New Music: Avery Sunshine – The Sun Room

Happy Tuesday, Soulsters! Tuesdays are always great for music lovers, especially since this is the day that new music comes out. Singer, songwriter and pianist, Avery Sunshine has released her highly anticipated new album, The Sun Room today!

Ever since I saw her live here in Atlanta many times sharing the stage with artists like Rahsaan Patterson, Anthony David, Eric Roberson, etc. I have been drawn to Ms. Sunshine’s stage presence and exuberant personality while performing. The woman can SANG and she is so happy and it shows in her music. Sun Room is now available on iTunes, Amazon, Walmart, and locally here in Atlanta at Moods Music. Check out the video for the lead single, “Call My Name” below. Go get this album and support great music!

Check out Avery Sunshine’s website here!

New Music – Black & Sexy TV: “That Guy Mixtape Vol. 2”

So while on hiatus I’ve been on YouTube following my favorite web series, Black and Sexy TV’s, “That Guy”. Let me tell you this series has me on the edge of my seat literally! It follows the every day ‘hood adventures of best friends, Judah (as seen through his camcorder), Deon, and Mike along with a supporting cast of colorful and real characters that round out this playful and engaging series. This is an independent production written, directed and produced by the super talented Jeanine Daniels, who also plays Deon. I have fallen in love with this show and can’t wait to tune in every week. The season finale aired last week and boy was it a doozey!

While watching this series along with many of the others (“Roomieloverfriends”, “Hello Cupid”, “Yellow“) that Black and Sexy TV offers (for free I might add), the music lover in me just couldn’t help but find myself groovin’ to the music that plays throughout each episode. I mean, the music is really off the chain and accompanies the scenes so well. If I’m not mistaken, I believe Ms. Daniels also has a hand in choosing the songs that will be in the show…if I read the credits correctly. Well she definitely knows music, what’s hot and how it can frame a scene. Many of the songs highlighted throughout the series serves as a platform for incredibly talented independent artists to have their music heard on the popular YouTube channel. Black & Sexy TV is giving these artists much needed exposure and love which I can certainly appreciate.

Now they have released free downloadable mix tapes for their series’ in the past and this current release is the second for “That Guy”; it’s also the best one so far. It has a mix of Soul, R&B as well as Hip Hop. I was so happy they decided to put out a soundtrack to this particular episode. These songs are bangin’ and I’m sure there was a high demand for the music from the fans this go round. Songs like, “Love Love” by Belvi, “Slip Away” by illCamille, “Cravings” by GTW and Befang, and “Crusin’ Down LaBrea” also by Belvi are my standout favorites on this offering. Just real chill and laid back sounds and vibes. Love it!

You can find the free downloads for the “That Guy” Mixtape, Vol. 2 here as well as free music downloads for their other shows. Good music and it’s FREE! Is that awesome or what?

Check out the Black and Sexy TV channel on Youtube here. The season finale is available here. This episode is $3, however, it’s 45 minutes long and if you are a fan of the show, it’s definitely worth that and more. Support these folks and what they are trying to do with independent film and music!

Love Love by Belvi

Listen Up! Jairus Mozee – The Elevator Album

I was searching the web for some GOOD music and came across the single, “Just How You Like” from jazz guitarist, Jairus Mozee’s, “The Elevator Album”. He is based out of Long Beach, CA and has worked with Anthony Hamilton, Robin Thicke, Cee-Lo Green and Faith Evans among many others. If you love J Dilla, “The Elevator Album” is right up your alley. Listen to the tracks below and let me know what you think!

Just How You Like

How about this one? Time featuring Ronee’ Mozee

Or this.. Elevator

Well if this has wet your musical appetite, then check out his entire CD here! Support GOOD music!

New Music – Madame Pepper & Radimo “Gilded Age”

Hey Soulsters! I have been following Madame Pepper for a few years now. I discovered her on YouTube when I was desperate to find other women who looked like me who was also going through their natural hair journey. I would check in with her whenever she posted about a new style or about her life in general. Her personality (and her British accent) drew me and many other Sistas in. When she began to share that she was also a singer and songwriter she really had my full attention then. Here and there she would put out videos of songs she was working on as well as live shows in London. I was completely impressed and became a fan of her sound. I could not wait until she released some material. Fast forward to the present and we finally have a project that will be released very soon called “Drummond”.

Madame Pepper has collaborated with Radimo out of the Czech Republic to bring us an album full of soul and blues. They just released the first single, “Gilded Age” with a visually stunning video. Check it out below.

Preview of Drummond Album:

“Take It There” – LOVE this song!

You can support them by visiting their website here.

Listen Up! Meemee Nelzy, “James Bond Girl”

For you House music heads that like to get your dance on this weekend check out this soulful House track by Carribean Soul Artist, Meemee Nelzy out of Guadeloupe! This is the single off her recent EP release, “Moon Reflection“. I fell in love with this song as soon as I heard it..and so did my feet and hips. Good music is universal, people! Turn it up and Enjoy!

“Moon Reflection” is available on her website here!