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Kimberly Morgan York is Back With New EP

If you grew up, like me, cutting your musical teeth on Nashville’s long-lost classic sound, Kimberly Morgan York’s music will hit your sweet spot.

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It isn’t a painfully self-conscious pastiche. I never hear York treating the style like a butterfly pinned under glass, beautiful but untouchable, but instead, she breathes newfound life into the form and gives it peerless relevance. The four songs on York’s new EP Devil Songs and Other Such Nonsense fully embrace their pedigree. Kimberly Morgan York isn’t bashful about flying her flag high as a purveyor of the classic Nashville sound and makes it sound fresh for modern listeners.

The Kentucky-born singer/songwriter has this flowing through her DNA. I hear it during her outstanding five-star cover of Terri Gibbs’ “Somebody’s Knockin’”. It’s a bit surprising to me that someone hasn’t attempted resuscitating life into this stylish early 80’s hit because it has an approach well-suited for the modern country landscape as well as remaining faithful to the genre’s core values. York’s performance strikes a perfect balance between paying tribute to the original and blazing her own path with the song.

“The Devil’s in Durango” mixes abundant classic country song imagery into the track’s lyrics alongside York’s personal heartache. The latter isn’t conveyed without a measure of sweetness accompanying its painful flavor. York has an instinctive feel for these sorts of songs, she knows exactly how much to push and when to back off, and tailors her voice in a perfect marriage with the song’s arrangement.

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 She gets to be much more playful with the song “The Devil Works All Year Long”. There’s a bit of “down home wisdom” packed into this tune, but it’s never remotely heavy-handed and the kick out the footlights pace of the song makes it an ideal live number in waiting for York. She pumps plenty of verve into her vocal performance and the matching steel guitar runs scattered throughout the song answering her singing each step of the way. It’s an excellent choice for this EP release.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/6QDcPgLL3hGKF0jkOzcvMZ?autoplay=true

“Other Such Nonsense”, the EP’s nominal title song, doesn’t reveal its message or intentions outright. You must pay attention. York rewards the listener’s attentiveness, I believe, with one of the most individualistic nods to the traditional country I’ve heard in years, and her steadfast refusal to pull her punches with either the singing or lyrics deserves ample kudos.  It’s a perfect song to end this brief collection as well.

If this stuff is passe, let’s be grateful that Kimberly Morgan York never received that memo.

Instead, she sweeps and rolls through these four songs with singular confidence and obvious joy in her chosen art. York doesn’t treat the EP format as a throwaway and addresses herself to each of these four songs as if Devil Songs and Other Such Nonsense, a literal description of the release’s cuts, were a much longer work. It’s an entertaining and illuminating journey that you’ll want to take more than once. I know I did and do and that each pass through these songs proves well worth the time.

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Kelly McKinnon

Artist Spotlight

“We Will Overcome” by Ooberfuse evokes a revolutionary anthem of solidarity

Ooberfuse

Ooberfuse, the British Filipino duo comprising Hal St John and Cherrie Anderson, has never shied away from tackling significant issues, whether teaming up with Snoop Dogg to highlight homelessness or gaining the admiration of the Pope. In their latest single, “We Will Overcome,” Ooberfuse delivers an electrifying call to join the activism, urging listeners to stand united and overcome social injustices. With their signature blend of emotive vocals, evocative instrumentation, and pulsating electronic beats, they craft a powerful and profoundly moving anthem.

The track’s message couldn’t be more timely. In a world where the voices of the oppressed and vulnerable communities often go unheard, Ooberfuse shines a spotlight on the urgent need for solidarity. Their work with the People’s Recovery, Empowerment, and Development Assistance Foundation (PREDA) in the Philippines proves their commitment goes beyond music; it’s activism set to melody.

We Will Overcome” carries an uplifting, almost defiant energy, weaving hope through its soaring synths and heartfelt lyrics. It amplifies their advocacy, shedding light on the devastating impact of the USAID cuts and the tireless efforts of Father Shay Cullen’s PREDA Foundation in rescuing and rehabilitating abused children in the Philippines. Cherrie’s ethereal voice glides effortlessly over the production, balancing raw emotion with unwavering strength. Hal’s dynamic presence complements the track’s urgency, creating a soundscape that refuses to be ignored.

This latest release strengthens their reputation as artists who don’t just create music but also strive to make a difference, inviting listeners to be part of the solution. “We Will Overcome” is not just inspiring; it is essential for reflection, a revolution wrapped in melody. If you are looking for a song that stirs the soul and sparks action, “We Will Overcome” is the perfect choice. Play it loud, let it resonate, and most importantly, embrace its meaning.

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For more information about Ooberfuse, please visit [website].
CONNECT WITH Ooberfuse | Instagram | Twitter | TikTok | Facebook |

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Artist Spotlight

Empty Pinata turns heartbreak into a scorched riff in the recent single “Bonfire”

Empty Pinata

Have you ever found yourself navigating the chaotic aftermath of a devastating breakup, where your wardrobe and heart have suffered significant damage? The song “Bonfire,” Empty Pinata’s latest single, captures this tumultuous experience, exemplifying the art of transforming a personal calamity into an infectious auditory experience. It effectively juxtaposes a narrative of heartbreak with an upbeat sonic palette, empowering listeners to find joy amidst the emotional wreckage.

Musically, “Bonfire” is anchored in an authentic, albeit painful, narrative. It explores the remnants of a relationship as the protagonist’s former partner incinerates a collection of meaningful belongings. Instead of succumbing to melancholic introspection, the song propels listeners into an infectious groove. Co-produced with Gamal, the composition skillfully merges indie pop sensibilities with the heartfelt authenticity characteristic of bedroom pop while infusing a bit of soft rock grit. This fusion is complemented by engaging vocals and dynamic chord progressions, culminating in a vigorous rhythmic surge that evokes the volatile nature of fire.

The composition shifts from a somber recollection to an invigorating indie anthem, featuring nostalgic yet catchy lyrics that reflect on past experiences and reclaim them. It conjures the image of standing before a fire, prioritizing the warmth of roasted marshmallows instead of drowning in tears. The song’s conclusion is punctuated by Gamal’s incisive lead line, which emphasizes the outro and parallels the symbolic rise of a phoenix against the backdrop of twilight.

Bonfire” is far from placid; it ignites a profoundly personal exploration rich with emotional complexity and stylistic flair. This track is poised to resonate powerfully with anyone who has witnessed love in its literal and metaphorical forms being systematically dismantled or has faced the loss of cherished possessions.

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For more information about Empty Pinata, please visit [website]. 
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Empty Pinata’s Bonfire on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Empty Pinata | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook |

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