Tag Archives: new music

Australia’s Deep South birth’s a traditional old school Funk/RnB Band ‘Mama K and the Big Love’

“Hailing from Australia’s “deep-south” (Hobart, Tasmania), Mama K and The Big Love perform all original, old school funk, soul and rhythm n blues. – Think The Blues Brothers with Aretha out front”

The brainchild of Kartika Franks (Mama K) who formed the band back in 2014 with a view to creating an original group to fit in with ex-UK Guitarist and Composer Dave Johnstone’s musical ethos – “I think groove, melody and lyrics are the three key components of any song, and any one of those elements can spark a song idea. The complete lyrics always come last and take forever. I attempt to write lyrics that tell a story, or convey a message as poetically and efficiently as possible. I like the syllabic rhythm of words and their sound when they complement each other sonically… The song subjects either come from storylines or from the things I am passionate about,”

The debut record was recorded late last year at Red Planet in Hobart by producer Stewart Long (Violent Femmes, Luca Brasi) . The album was tracked through a 1975 Vintage Harrison 24/32 Recording Console and mixed to a Vintage Studer B67 Analog Tape Deck. “So much can be done with digital these days, but sometimes you just want some romance!” said Stew, “We used old gear wherever it felt good.”

First single and video “Moth to The Flame” Is a story about a stripper and her loyal flock of followers (who hang off her every move), and a priest with his loyal flock of followers (who hang off his every word).

Single ‘Moth to the Flame’ Release Date Friday February 17
Pre release trailer-
facebook.com/MamaKandtheBigLove/videos/1858236047788276

The song is brilliantly brought to visuals in the video featuring acclaimed Hobart Actor Jeff Michel who plays both roles in a masterful cross dressing, hip churning solo performance. See
https://youtu.be/RiGaKuCpPLQ

The Album ‘Blind’ will be released March 10
(pre release review copies are available on request)
Upcoming Shows
Thursday, March 2^nd, 2017
‘Busting Out’ – International Women’s Day event for Women’s Health Tasmania
Moonah Arts Centre, 23-27 Albert Road, Moonah, TAS, 7009
7.30 – 9.00pm
Tickets $25 full / $20 concession.

Album launch party – Friday, March 17^th, 2017
The Duke Hotel, 192 Macquarie Street, Hobart, TAS, 7000
8.00pm

Recent Quotes
“…they’re an incredible band… a really, really exciting group, huge voices” Ryk Goddard,
ABC Radio Hobart (Breakfast show 27/01/17)
“what an amazing band…. I already have people wanting your new CD” Alan Jennison,
Publisher/Editor Tasmanian Living Magazine (24/01/17)

Social Links

Website: mamakandthebiglove.com

Facebook: facebook.com/MamaKandtheBigLove

Youtube youtube.com/channel/UC21JvWyYBKgBW6mYqZ0UxsA

Twitter: twitter.com/MamaKandBigLove

Videos

Vida Cain – Ignite

Video February 16, 2017 Marshall Cullen

News and Touring

Hussy Hicks – New Single and Aussie Tour

February 13, 2017 Marshall Cullen

Hussy Hicks Announce New Single “Pirate Flag” and Set Sail on An Aussie Tour!
The Gold Coast Duo have recorded one of their fans live favourites and since the lyrics reflect the current world situation they just had to get out on tour and perform the tune as well.

Release Date Friday February 24

‘Let’s set sail under a pirate flag’ is the message in this track that is a firm crowd favourite from Hussy Hicks live sets and echoes a sentiment of political skepticism that resonates the world over in these turbulent times.

This latest single along with ‘Whole Lotta’ (2016 Amrap top 5/Roots n All Triple J) are both being added as bonus tracks to a limited edition vinyl pressing of their 2016 release ‘Lucky Joe’s Wine and other tales from Dog River’ to be made available mid 2017.

After the band tracks were recorded live in beautiful Byron Bay, the tune navigated its way to London where it was mixed by long term collaborator A Friend O Mine and Mastered at Abbey Rd Studios.

Featuring the core HH team, Julz Parker and Leesa Gentz along with rhythm section Tracy Stephens and Rohan Hems the track is true to the Hussy Hicks live sound and will be music to the ears of their regular fans who have been crying out for this track to be recorded.

‘Let’s set sail under a Pirate Flag’ Tour Dates:

March 25 – Mojo Burning Festival – Brisbane, QLD

March 26 – Black Bunny Kitchen – Alexandra Headland, QLD

March 31 – The Royal Mail Hotel – Brisbane, QLD

May 19 – Blues on Broadbeach Festival – Gold Coast, QLD

May 20 – Blues on Broadbeach Festival – Gold Coast, QLD

May 21 – Blues on Broadbeach Festival – Gold Coast, QLD

June 8 – Lazybones Lounge – Marrickville, NSW

July 7 – Bello Winter Music Festival – Bellingen, NSW

July 8 – Bello Winter Music Festival – Bellingen, NSW

July 9 – Bello Winter Music Festival – Bellingen, NSW

Click below to see the new single “Pirate Flag” performed live at Sunny Side Studios!

Want to hear the song? open.spotify.com/album/4lMc9f0BA3G3YM3229p0i6 itunes.apple.com/us/album/pirate-flag-single/id1202184556

Social Links
hussyhicks.com
facebook.com/hussyhicks
twitter.com/hussyhicks
hussyhicks.bandcamp.com

Videos

Hussy Hicks – Pirate Flag

Video February 11, 2017 Marshall Cullen

Videos

Mama K and The Big Love-Moth to The Flame

Video February 11, 2017 Marshall Cullen

News and Touring

Backtrack Blues Band – Album Reviews and Praises

February 11, 2017 Marshall Cullen

Backtrack Blues Band – “Way Back Home” Reviews

On its latest release,“Way Back Home,” the Backtrack Blues Band has delivered an exciting harp and guitar-infused album that really hits the mark! The solid grooves, stellar guitar, electrifying harmonica, and vocals make this album one of the best blues releases of 2016. Reminiscent of the sounds of Paul Butterfield and the early Fabulous Thunderbirds, the songs on this record are true electric blues with lots of soul and energy. The band has won three consecutive Tampa Bay Music Awards for “Best Blues Band” and has performed at festivals and concerts around the world with blues music legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B.King, Buddy Guy, Robert Cray, Gregg Allman, John Lee Hooker, Johnny Winter, and others. “Way Back Home” marks the band’s fifth album, and the critics have proclaimed it the band’s best work! “Way Back Home” is receiving worldwide airplay, placing it at #8 on Roots Music Blues Rock Radio Chart. Even more, “Way Back Home” was selected among the world’s top 50 blues albums of 2016!

iTunes: itunes.apple.com/au/album/way-back-home/id1147238331

Reviews and Praises

“This is blues par excellence, raw essential blues and quintessentially this type of music is what the term was designed for! … In truth this album is the best I’ve been fortunate enough to review. Musically this disc is flawless, the arrangements and the vocals are superb and the instrumental renditions truly magnificent! It is a must for any aficionado of the blues genre,” – Tom Walker, Blues Matters Magazine
(backtrackbluesband.com/images/way-back-home-review.jpg)

“Backtrack Blues Band has been delivering some of the finest blues to come out of the Sunshine State and continues to do so onWay Back Home. This album is a must have for all blues lovers. If it’s piano blues that gets your engine humming, then this album is for you. If you can’t get enough harp playing, you will be left breathless. This album is sure to make existing fans happy and bring numerous new fans out to see The Backtrack Blues Band,” – Steve Crowley, American Blues Scene
(americanbluesscene.com/2017/01/backtrack-blues-bands-way-back-home-keeps-fans-warm)

“The songs drip with guitar and harp and you just can’t help tapping your feet to the infectious rhythms. Their sound is reminiscent of the early electric Muddy Waters, with the harp getting plenty of air and there’s lots of tasty Texas-inspired guitar throughout,” – John Knighton, Fatea Records
(fatea-records.co.uk/magazine/reviews/BacktrackBluesBand)

Find more outstanding reviews for “Way Back Home” here: backtrackbluesband.com/reviews

Social Links
Website
backtrackbluesband.com
Facebook
facebook.com/BacktrackBluesBand
Twitter
twitter.com/backtrackblues

News and Touring

New Music from USA’s Rebecca Harrold – “The River of Life”

February 2, 2017 Marshall Cullen

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Rebecca Harrold has spent many years working as a pianist and singer. Since moving to the Boston area she worked extensively with The Company Theater, the Voice Studio of Robert Honeysucker, and recently with Burklyn Ballet of Vermont. A true collaborative musician her abilities and willingness to play and sing diverse styles has taken her to Europe, primarily Italy and Greece. Rebecca recently completed production on ‘The River of Life‘ with Windham Hills founder and producer, Will Ackerman. Available everywhere.

Watch the video for her song ‘We Belong Together‘ here: youtube.com/watch?v=XgP6CGxc2DU

Find the album here:

iTunes
itunes.apple.com/us/album/the-river-of-life/id890181530
Spotify
open.spotify.com/album/6dM6qBBp7is5diJBvKaM8V

Social
Website
rebeccaharroldmusic.com
Facebook
facebook.com/www.rebeccaharrold.net
SoundCloud
soundcloud.com/rebah7

News and Touring

Joel Sena Self-Titled EP Out Now

November 10, 2016 Marshall Cullen

Joel Sena‘s new self-titled EP is available Now!

iTunes link for the new EP: itunes.apple.com/au/album/joel-sena-ep/id1148708750

Following the release, Joel Sena Successfully launched the EP to a sell out crowd at SLY FOX-Sydney.

Some of Joel’s Influences include Miles Davis, Jill Scott, Robert Glasper, Kenny Garrett, Michael Brecker/Brecker Bros, Toto, Earth Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder, Chaka Khan.

“His music is a compelling and raw fusion of Soul, R&B and Jazz. It features his enticing saxophone style alongside some beautifully crafted songs and modern production. Also featured on the EP are the sultry vocals of up and coming singer Phoebe Papatheodorou.”

The video for first single ‘Be With You’ Featuring PHOEBE was premiered by Tone Deaf. Check it out:

“I’ve been passionate about making original music for years and this EP marks the start of a new journey for me. The songs tell the story of some of the most profound experiences I’ve had over the past few years. I have come from humble beginnings and have worked really hard at finding my own sound both as a saxophonist and producer. I’ve been able to create a really dynamic sound with both soaring highs and subtle, tender moments. I can’t wait to share my music with the world,” -Joel Sena

Social Links
Website
joelsena.com
Facebook
facebook.com/joelsenamusic
Instagram
instagram.com/joelsenamusic
Twitter
twitter.com/joelsenamusic
YouTube
youtube.com/user/joeltsena

News and Touring

New Single “Only Way I Know” and National Tour for Josh Johnstone

November 10, 2016 Marshall Cullen

Perth Artist Josh Johnstone is on the Promotion and Tour trail again through November and December, even braving Darwin close to the wet season, to push his new single ‘Only Way I Know’ around Australia…

He made a great start with a breakfast show live performance and chat on ABC 720 Perth with Announcer Peter Bell Friday Nov 4!

The new single, ‘Only Way I Know,’ comes from his latest album ‘Call In Whispers,’ and is is available for radio now! You can get the single (and the rest of the album) from the link below:

itunes.apple.com/au/album/call-in-whispers/id1096519454

In addition to the new single, Johnstone will also be embarking on a national tour around Australia! Dates and details are below, but find ticket information on his website here: www.joshjohnstone.com

JOSH JOHNSTONE ‘ONLY WAY I KNOW’ – NATIONAL TOUR DATES

Wed 9 Nov – Clifton Brew Pub (Melbourne, VIC)*

Sun 11th Nov – Bended Elbow (Albury, NSW)

Tue 15 Nov – Oxford Circus (Sydney, NSW)*

Thu 17 Nov – Brass Monkey (Cronulla, NSW)*

Fri 18 Nov – Revolver (Melbourne, VIC)**

Fri 25th Nov – Parap Tavern (Darwin, NT)**

Sun 27 Nov – ‘POP UP GIG’ Secret Location TBA (WA)**

Thu 1st Dec – Prince of Wales (Bunbury, WA)**

Wed 7th Dec – Clancy’s Canning Bridge (Perth, WA)*

Fri 9th Dec – National Hotel (Fremantle, WA)**

Sun 11th Dec – Exchange Hotel (Kalgoorlie, WA)**

*solo show **full band

Lastly, to prepare yourself for the show ahead, pop over to Josh’s Youtube channel to watch his newest music videos:

www.youtube.com/channel/UCTcVcCnq6Ob68m2n7K6afkw

Find ‘Call in Whispers’ here:

CD Baby – cdbaby.com/callinwhispers

Spotify – open.spotify.com/callinwhispers

Official Site
joshjohnstone.com
Facebook
facebook.com/joshjohnstonemusic
Soundcloud
soundcloud.com/joshjohnstonemusic
Instagram
@joshjohnstonemusic

News and Touring

Tailor Birds – New Tour Dates Announced

November 1, 2016 Marshall Cullen

Exciting news from Tailor Birds: new tour dates to promote the launch of their new album Wide Awake I See The Storm!

Checkout the latest album review here

The band have been touring through Europe for summer over there and return to our shores to present the multi facetted live show that has been developed over the past few years.

Leader Sophie Kinston was recently interviewed and had this to add-

“I’ve just returned from a 31 date tour of Hollland, Ireland, UK, and Germany, launching this album, playing some quite amazing festivals, gigs, street shows, pop up shows, boat shows…..it was the 4th Europe tour, and now i’m back in Oz. Touring the album to some of our favorite spaces. Tailor Birds is a unique sound, so it’s really important that our shows reflect this. So we’ve got a couple of festivals – Alma’s Hem in South Australia, and FRL in VIC, plus some local markets and gigs – Bar Oussou, Queen Vic meat market, Ceres, a Melbourne Sofar Sounds gig, Sydney’s Mr Falcons and a show in the Rocks, plus a special climbing wall show over 3 dates, where we’ll actually be playing inside the wall, plus a street show outside the wall. ”

Tell us a quick, on the road or studio, anecdote. –

“The Azart Ship of Fools. I played on this boat in Holland just this past tour. The inside was thick with steel, and the sound when pushed up a level, it reverberated beautifully. The people on the boat are some of the most amazing humans, promoting new and unique music, music that entertains and thrills. You can’t not have a good gig there. The sound became less about the songs, and more about the vibe, it sort of became other worldly. Must have been my best gig of the tour. The boat, incidentally is headed for Australia, so it seems. From Holland, they head to India, the Canary Islands, and then Australia. ”

Get the album here:

itunes.apple.com/au/album/wide-awake-i-see-the-storm/id1147713208

Find a date near you below and ticket information will be available soon!

Nov 12th – Alma’s Hem Annual Music exhibition Adelaide SA
Nov 13th – Market shed on Holland Adelaide SA

Nov 18th – Meat Market – Sparrow Market 11am – 1pm VIC
Wilson Ave Climbing Wall in Melbourne VIC: -
DATES : Sat 19 th / Sun 20 th / Sun 27 th Nov
TIMES : Come anytime from 4 – 6.30pm on any of the above dates
(WITH a final show, Sun 27th Nov, 7 – 8pm)
TIX : $10 p/person, TIX avail. at the wall on the day
OR email : tailorbirdsmusic@gmail.com
Nov 20th – South Melbourne Market – 10 – 12midday VIC