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Jillian Antinora Charms Listeners With Heartfelt Album ‘Make My Day’

Folk singer-songwriter Jillian Antinora reflects on lessons learned over the years in her debut album, Make My Day, out now. Antionora wears her heart on her sleeve in every track on this undeniably soulful album; 7 personal records give listeners a deeper insight into Antinora’s story, showcased through a variety of grooves and colors. This project was an opportunity for the musical theater actress, entrepreneur, and songwriter to showcase the guitar skills she developed after having taken up the instrument years ago. Built upon intricate fingerpicking, creative comping patterns, and colorful chorditure, Antinora’s bright acoustic guitar invigorates every track. This multi-gifted powerhouse delves deep into significant topics – the thrill of new love, the need to let things go, true love vs. superficial love, and turning to your faith when you are struggling – that have left an impression on her throughout her life. Fans can expect honest recounts of personal stories delivered by a masterful, seasoned vocalist.

This album showcases Antinora’s silky vocals and steady guitar as the two stars of every track. She effortlessly glides atop the gorgeous melody on the tender love letter, “When We’re Alone.” “Heart of Stone” yields a powerful peak in the energy of Make My Day, in which Antinora dives head first into a sassy angst backed by persistent acoustic guitar and a smooth beat. The title track of the project, “Make My Day” layers optimistic guitar with wistful lyrics steeped in melancholy. “Fade Away” is an encouraging declaration of the importance of turning to faith through hardship. This project embodies Antinora’s story to its core; each track is an authentic depiction of what lies beneath the surface of this undeniably refined musician.

Jillian Antinora is the lead singer, songwriter, and guitarist for her compositions. Jillian was born in Belleville, Illinois. She grew up in Las Vegas, NV, and later moved to Colorado Springs, CO. Growing up, she studied ballet and was classically trained in voice as a lyric soprano beginning at age 15. In 1996 she moved to New York City to attend American Music and Dramatic Academy (AMDA) and pursue her dream of working in the theatre. She worked professionally in musical theatre around the U.S. and on cruise ships for 6 years before getting married in San Diego in 2002. She then lived in Sicily for 3 years where she studied opera. In 2008, she returned to Fort Collins, Colorado where she now lives. Jillian lives with her husband and their 6 children. Jillian and her husband TJ own 3 Subway restaurants, and Jillian runs her own real estate agency. Jillian began playing the guitar and writing songs when her youngest child was born in 2015. She released her first album in June 2021. She loves writing these songs and she hopes you love listening to them!

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Artist Spotlight

“Pretty Ugly” by Archer Stevens stirs the soul with retro-modern rock vibes

Archer Stevens

Pretty Ugly,” the inaugural single by Archer Stevens, represents a compelling homage to the golden age of 70s rock music with a fresh coat of modern vibrancy. From the outset, the track masterfully exudes an irresistible energy that embodies vintage and contemporary influences, acting as a sonic bridge between eras. The Phoenix-based ensemble skillfully weaves their influences into a pronounced, personal narrative.

A noteworthy aspect of the track is its instrumentation. Recorded across three diverse locations, Phoenix, Los Angeles, and even Peru, the song has a global resonance. The incorporation of congas introduces a surprising layer of depth and rhythm, giving “Pretty Ugly” a distinct flair that separates it from cookie-cutter rock releases. This thoughtful musical choice enhances the song’s groove, complementing the shimmering guitar lines and soulful vocal delivery.

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Lyrically, “Pretty Ugly” plays on contrasts, embodying the emotional push and pull of life’s dualities. The heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of intimate admiration and longing to please a partner, while the melodic structure ensures the track remains uplifting despite its introspective qualities.

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By drawing inspiration from the enduring spirit of rock legends such as Elton John, Joe Cocker, and the Rolling Stones, Archer Stevens pays tribute to their predecessors without resorting to imitation. The soaring vocals and driving rhythm establish “Pretty Ugly” as a cathartic anthem that appeals to classic and contemporary rock enthusiasts. With this debut, Archer Stevens distinguishes itself as a band unafraid to experiment and honor its musical heritage, thus carving out its unique sonic identity. The result is a richly layered auditory experience that captivates from the first listen, revealing engaging narratives within the music.

 

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For more information about Archer Stevens, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Archer Stevens’ Pretty Ugly on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Archer Stevens | Instagram

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Artist Spotlight

“Do You Still Remember?” by Khynan Rhys turns heartache loss into soulful harmony

Khynan Rhys

At the age of 18, Khynan Rhy, a solo musician and multi-instrumentalist from Northwich, Cheshire, demonstrates exceptional maturity in his songwriting capabilities, indicating a wisdom that transcends his years. His sophomore single, “Do You Still Remember?” is a heart-stirring attestation to his musical aptitude and emotional profundity. It intricately weaves together a sonic narrative that encapsulates poignant lyricism, authenticity, and evocative melodies, effectively exploring the aching nostalgia of separation and longing.

Drawing on a rich palette of influences like Artemas, Daniel Caesar, and Ocean Alley, Khynan crafts a familiar sound and style that is distinctly his own. The track opens with a delicate interplay of introspective guitar melodies and ethereal synth layers, creating an atmospheric canvas that perfectly frames his soulful vocal delivery. The production, entirely helmed by Khynan and polished by Ben Booker’s mastering touch, feels intimate yet sophisticated without stripping away an ideal balance that lets the emotion shine through the song’s soulful compulsion.

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What makes “Do You Still Remember?” so captivating is its ability to resonate profoundly, transforming universal themes into specific, relatable experiences. Whether audiences are reminiscing about lost love, the bittersweet pang of first love, or confronting the emotional void left by bereavement, Khynan’s lyrics indeed hit like a gentle nudge to the heart that refuses to shy away from the deep memories of heartbreak, possessing a poetic resonance that endures long after the song ends.

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Through this second release, Khynan Rhys establishes himself as an emerging star poised for lasting impact, building upon the initial success of his debut single, ‘Closed Doors.’ He expresses emotional vulnerability that invites audiences to engage with his work. “Do You Still Remember?” offers a moment of introspective reflection on the sorrow of losing someone once deemed irreplaceable, proving that even in our most solitary experiences, music can make us feel less alone.

 

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For more information about Khynan Rhys, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Khynan Rhys’ Do You Still Remember? on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Khynan Rhys | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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