Album Review

“Milky Way Rising” by Hourstone

When it comes to making pop music that isn’t all about the tired stereotypes that have driven so many of its most ardent supporters away from the genre, few do it better than Hourstone does. The solo artist and frequent indie collaborator has been cutting some magnetic music in the last few years, and in his most recent effort “Milky Way Rising” featuring none other than the talented Amanda Kang, he arguably goes bigger than ever. Conceptually speaking, Hourstone is determined to expand on a fluid style of arranging introduced to us in previous releases by incorporating additional elements of instrumentation into the fabric of his sound, rendering what can only be described as a new strain of techno-inspired pop that is as rooted in balladry as it is an old school club beats.

With Kang by his side to emotionally colorize the lyrics in the song, this player tears through the rhythm of the track with a swagger that is unlike anything we’ve heard from him before, proving himself to be one of the most confident and charismatic performers of his currently-exploding scene along the way.

Produced with exquisite attention to detail, Hourstone ensures that every intricate facet within the tonality of the music is given VIP treatment behind the soundboard in the song. Every part of the mix is contributing to the larger narrative in “Milky Way Rising,” starting with the soothing radiance of the synth-born melody chasing the bassline in the background.

It helps to keep the intensity in Amanda Kang’s sensuous lyrics firing on all cylinders by breaking down some of the ominousness in the beats, but moreover, it adds a layer of melancholic undertow to the mood in the verses that wouldn’t be there otherwise. When Kang takes over the epicenter of the groove, the bass is toned down a bit, and the space that it leaves behind in the master mix is quickly filled by an exotic serenade which is as much of a reason to pick up “Milky Way Rising” as Hourstone’s definitively clever arranging is.

If you’ve yet to hear the music of Hourstone, this single is an optimal way to familiarize yourself with his skill set and the enthralling charm that he tends to unleash in every track that he shares with the public. I’ve been keeping a close eye on his career for a minute now, and I must say that, while I was expecting a lot out of this song, I never anticipated being as enamored by the highly stylized cosmetics of either as I was. The concept for “Milky Way Rising” is, much like the single itself, a kaleidoscopic effort from all angles that focuses on the might of its melody more than anything else. Neither Hourstone nor Amada Kang have submitted anything of a subpar quality to the fans to date, and with “Milky Way Rising,” this pair takes an evolving sound to a level of engagement that I cannot wait to hear a lot more of shortly.

Album Review

Album Review: Pete Miller’s “Live on Record”

When it comes to genuine and unembellished music, Pete Miller’s debut album “Live on Record” is a revitalizing breeze in the current music landscape. Released on MTS Records, the LP presents an artist who, despite the modernity around him, channels a vintage, heartfelt essence that’s increasingly rare. Combining elements of folk, country, and rock, Miller’s work is a throwback to an era where music was raw and storytelling was genuine.

A Connecticut native who now calls Pennsylvania home, Pete Miller’s journey to his debut album wasn’t one paved with glitter and glamor. Escaping the allure of New York City, Miller worked various blue-collar jobs, including landscaping, warehouse labor, and construction while chasing his musical dreams. His life’s experiences, genuinely reflected in his songs, make “Live on Record” an autobiographical piece that resonates with the “everyman.”

From the get-go, Miller’s voice draws comparisons to the legendary Johnny Cash, a resemblance he carries with pride. His rich baritone and poetic lyricism are reminiscent of the Man in Black’s storytelling prowess. Influences of Townes Van Zandt’s melancholic narratives also weave through the album, grounding Miller firmly in the tradition of great American singer-songwriters.

The album’s opener, “A Light Out There – Intro Version,” sets the tone with a soulful introduction that hooks listeners. The lyrics, “You may go away, but the story will survive. You want to return, but wonder if you’ll arrive…” instantly pull you into Miller’s world – reflective, tinged with melancholy, yet hopeful. The full version of “A Light Out There” has garnered significant attention, amassing over 119K streams on Spotify and breaking into the UK iTunes Top 20 Singer-Songwriters Chart. The full album is quickly approaching 1 million Spotify streams!

Each song on the album is meticulously crafted to tell a story, from the contemplative “The Star Showman, Pt. I” to the earnest “Oh, Lord,” each track offers a glimpse into Miller’s life and experiences. In “The Dazzling Kimberly,” Miller’s narrative style shines through, painting vivid images of characters and emotions with minimalistic yet powerful instrumentation.

The simplicity of the album is its greatest strength. Miller’s acoustic guitar work is untainted by overproduction, allowing the natural sound of the instrument to take center stage. His playing is rhythmic and engaging, supporting his vocals without overshadowing the poignant lyrics. Tracks like “I Wrote Hannah a Letter” and “Hard to Find” showcase this beautifully, with Miller’s jangling guitar providing the perfect backdrop for his homespun poetry.

“Midnight Blue” and “The Raven & the Dove” delve deeper into Miller’s introspective side, offering meditative and almost haunting melodies that linger long after the song ends. They’re a testament to Miller’s ability to evoke strong emotions through his music, making listeners feel the weight of his words and the authenticity of his experiences.

The album’s closer, the complete version of “A Light Out There,” is a fitting end to the journey. It encapsulates the overarching themes of the album – longing, resilience, and a quest for meaning. The lyrics, “When you suffer, you’re out of this land. When you came back through that door, the waves didn’t remember your feet on the shore,” resonate with anyone who’s felt lost and found solace in the simplicity of life.

“Live on Record” is an album that doesn’t aspire to be flashy or trendy. Instead, it focuses on being real and relatable. Pete Miller’s music is a reflection of his life – unpolished yet profound, simple yet deeply meaningful. His storytelling is the heart of the album, and it’s this authenticity that makes his debut a standout.

As Miller works on his follow-up album in the woods of Pennsylvania, one can only anticipate the continuation of his musical journey. If “Live on Record” is any indication, Pete Miller is poised to carve out a niche for himself in the music industry, staying true to his roots and delivering music that is as raw and real as it gets.

For more information on Pete Miller and to connect with his music, check him out on Facebook.

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Album Review

Lady Redneck Releases Bold Cover of The Police’s “Every Breath You Take”

Lady Redneck’s cover of The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” brings a fresh perspective to this iconic song.

Lady Redneck, known for her vibrant personality and Christian country music, takes on “Every Breath You Take” with a blend of reverence and originality. Her rendition promises a unique twist on the classic, combining her energetic style with the song’s timeless lyrics.

The choice to cover such a well-known track is bold, and Lady Redneck infuses it with her trademark humor and heartfelt storytelling. Her interpretation captures the seductive and innocent nuances described, offering listeners a new way to experience the song’s emotional depth.

Stephanie Lee’s musical prowess, honed from her upbringing in a musical family and her solo career successes, shines through in this cover. Her ability to play multiple instruments adds to the richness of the arrangement, ensuring a musically satisfying experience.

Overall, Lady Redneck’s cover of “Every Breath You Take” is poised to resonate with both longtime fans of The Police and newcomers alike, offering a refreshing take that stays true to the original while showcasing her own unique musical identity.

For those interested in exploring more of Lady Redneck’s music, her website provides additional insights and updates on her latest releases.