Music
RAY JOHNSON recently released his Melodic Single, “Ocean Blue”
RAY JOHNSON, the Saint Charles-based maestro of acoustic melodies, captivates listeners with his latest single, “Ocean Blue,” a heartfelt and serene acoustic masterpiece released on September 29, 2023. Amidst the chaos of the music industry, Johnson’s tranquil song stands out as a creative oasis, showcasing his exceptional talent and unique musical style. This song is evidence of Johnson’s remarkable songwriting prowess and skill for creating a musical masterpiece that shines with lyrical depth and melodic brilliance, profoundly impacting the listener’s soul.
RAY JOHNSON’s musical journey has been a lifelong pursuit. Johnson’s passion for music has been unwavering from his early days in the choir to mastering the acoustic guitar at 12. This passion persisted through college and beyond as he transitioned into a successful solo acoustic act and eventually formed the original song-focused band Saldo Kreek. His dedication to his craft is evident in “Ocean Blue,” where his years of musical exploration immersed in vocal ensembles and growth culminated in a piece of art that shines brightly in the contemporary music scene.
The song is a part of Ray’s third album, “Appealing To Angels,” which has continued to make waves since its release on August 18, 2023. “Coffee And Toast,” the album’s first single, laid the groundwork for the success of “Ocean Blue.” The latter, in particular, has been steadily gaining traction, captivating not only his loyal fanbase but also garnering the attention of music enthusiasts from around the globe, attesting to its undeniable potential.
Musically, “Ocean Blue” weaves a captivating spell, with Ray’s gentle guitar strumming creating a dynamic and engaging soundscape. The song’s poetic lyrics unfold a heartfelt narrative, delivered with genuine conviction and evocative passion. Lines like “When you search for the truth all the colors scream through ocean blue, Waves are so high and so am I, so much to be done, Sounds of the sea bring you to me with the setting sun ocean blues” evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing that resonates with listeners on a deep emotional level.
No matter your preferred musical genre, acoustic pop, rock, or soothing ballads, “Ocean Blue” promises to lift your spirits and soothe your soul. It’s a testament to Ray Johnson’s songwriting prowess and authenticity, which makes the craft melodies universally appealing, transcending genre boundaries and touching the hearts of all who listen.
Beyond his role as a musician and songwriter, Ray Johnson wears many hats, including that of a music producer and the owner of his own studio. His music publishing company, “Soon To Be Famous Publishing LLC,” further demonstrates his commitment to his craft and dedication to ensuring his artwork reaches a global audience.
In the cluttered landscape of modern music, “Ocean Blue” shines as a rare gem that conveys profound feelings. It’s a song that deserves a cherished place in the playlists of music enthusiasts seeking a genuine and soul-stirring acoustic experience. Ray Johnson’s “Ocean Blue” is more than just a song; it’s a musical journey you won’t want to miss.
For more information about RAY JOHNSON, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM RAY JOHNSON’s “Ocean Blue“ on Spotify.
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Couldn’t Be Happiers unleashes a harmonious ode to modern existence with its EP “Couple(t)s Side A”
Get ready to be enchanted as North Carolina’s folk-rock duo Couldn’t Be Happiers invites listeners into their universally resonant anthems by releasing their eagerly awaited EP masterpiece, “Couple(t)s Side A.” This ambitious and heartfelt six-track collection brimm with introspection, poetic storytelling, and bold sonic exploration. The timeless melodies EP showcases the duo’s signature blend of heart-on-sleeve authenticity and genre-defying artistry.
More than a clever title, “Couple(t)s Side A” celebrates Jodi Hildebran Lee (playing drums, vocals, harmonica) and Jordan Crosby Lee (guitar, vocals) both as a married couple and as fervent admirers of poetic couplets. Produced in collaboration with Doug Davis of Flytrap Music Production, the EP is a testament to the duo’s harmonious synergy that defines their partnership in music and life. Organized thematically into categories of romantic compositions, protest anthems, and folk narrative ballads, the EP interweaves a complex tapestry of emotion, resulting in a work that is both diverse and cohesive.
The EP evocatively begins with “Come Back Tomorrow,” a euphoric folk-rock brilliance brimming with optimism and hope. With assertive harmonies and striking lead vocals, the track embodies a poignant reflection on the resilience of love and community amidst the uncertainties of modern life. The title track, “When I Die,” follows with a soulful warmth that lays bare life’s imperfections through melancholic yet therapeutic tones.
Each subsequent track deepens the EP’s emotional and thematic complexity. “Plastic Bag Odyssey (I’ll Never Die)” delivers a skillfully crafted critique against societal ills, while “Tear It Down” electrifies with timeless folk-infused grooves and emotive instrumentation. The haunting “Devil’s Tramping Ground” pairs dynamic beats with a dreamlike atmosphere, exploring the euphoria of discovery. Closing the EP, “Pretty Polly” leaves an indelible mark with its hauntingly introspective folk narrative, with trembling vibrato and seamless narrative flow.
With robust instrumentation including sousaphone, melodica, accordion, and musical saw, “Couple(t)s Side A” captures the essence of the duo’s dynamic live performances while pushing the boundaries of their artistry. It’s a sonic odyssey that invites listeners into the intimate, heartfelt world of Couldn’t Be Happiers, blending classic folk vibes with modern, introspective charm.
This EP marks a significant milestone in the duo’s growing discography, highlighting their unique approach to songwriting and storytelling. As Couldn’t Be Happiers continues to evolve and innovate, “Couple(t)s Side A” firmly solidifies its place as an exciting rising voice in the folk-rock scene.
For more information about Couldn’t Be Happiers, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Couldn’t Be Happiers’ EP “Couple(t)s Side A“ on Spotify.
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Artist Spotlight
“Blue Christmas” by Lisa Humber delivers a heartfelt holiday melancholic glow
Weaving an ethereal soundscape that cuts straight to the soul, Lisa Humber’s rendition of “Blue Christmas” feels like unwrapping an intimate letter to the heartbroken, transforming the familiar holiday classic into a profoundly personal exploration of seasonal melancholy. Gone are Elvis Presley’s iconic version’s upbeat, almost playful undertones; Lisa offers a stripped-back performance characterized by a haunting resonance.
Working closely with producer and guitarist Justin Abedin, Humber breathes life into the song’s quiet void that lingers in the spaces where laughter should reside. Her tender and vulnerable voice evokes a rare sense of unfiltered longing. It’s as though she’s singing directly to the part of us that carries the burden of lonely and disappointed festive promises during a time usually filled with happiness and celebration, creating a stark contrast to the glittering cheer of the season.
The minimalistic instrumentation creates an intimate auditory experience. Abedin’s guitar strings hum softly, almost like a fragile heartbeat, leaving room for Lisa’s vocal tenderness to shine. Each note she sings feels deliberate, and every lyric is imbued with the ache of memories and the quiet hope of what could have been.
Humber’s evolution as a songwriter began with her debut original composition, ‘Boxing Day.’ With this new single, she demonstrates her adeptness in capturing the nuances of human emotions. “Blue Christmas” isn’t just a cover; it functions as a reimagined dialogue with the audience, providing shared solace to anyone whose holiday experiences might not meet the cheerful festive narrative.
This interpretation of “Blue Christmas” encapsulates a dual sense of introspective warmth and illumination while simultaneously embodying bittersweet emotions. Its impact is particularly pronounced when complemented by visuals of twinkling lights juxtaposed against through a lens of melancholy. Ultimately, it represents a stunning addition to Humber’s growing catalog of musical works.
For more information about Lisa Humber, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Lisa Humber’s “Blue Christmas“ on Spotify.
CONNECT WITH Lisa Humber | Instagram | Twitter |