Jack Nolan Presents ‘The Lonely Petunia’
Australian singer-songwriter Jack Nolan makes yet another statement in his prolific run of new releases with “The Lonely Petunia,” a quietly stunning record that reaffirms his mastery of subtle storytelling and understated emotion. Known for crafting songs with an almost hypnotic atmosphere, Nolan strips back the production with his latest work to create acoustic soundscapes that feel personal, reflective, and beautifully unhurried.
From the opening chords, Nolan signals a move away from the fuller, band-oriented textures of his previous releases. Here, his voice and guitar take the spotlight, with light touches of piano, string flourishes, and resonator slide woven tastefully into the mix.
“Extraordinary” stands out early on in the album with the gentle interplay between guitar, string and piano. Nolan’s expressive vocals take the spotlight, but the strings step in to add intensity and back off to create space for the keys in more reflective passages. It’s a beautiful composition that draws you in for the long haul.
Musically, The Lonely Petunia sits comfortably in the lineage of Americana-inspired Australian folk. This is reflected especially well on “You’ve changed,” a guitar-driven track that blends in country elements. With its biting lyrics and heavy theme, the track fits in perfectly with the genre, reflecting the amount of thought that went into curating the album.
It closes out with “Fading fast,” which is a masterclass in restraining arrangements to give the vocals room to breathe. The violin interludes are great in their own right, but the real highlight is Nolan’s delivery that ambles and soars as the story demands. This track preserves the record’s characteristic sound: warm, slightly weathered, and full of quiet confidence.
Produced between Sydney and Nashville, The Lonely Petunia feels like the culmination of Nolan’s decades-long journey through the Australian roots scene. The audio engineering is handled with subtlety and never overshadows the lyricism. The guitars are clear but never sharp, and the vocals are mixed upfront, giving the impression of a performance in your living room.
While The Lonely Petunia may feel understated, its restraint is precisely what gives it depth. There are no unnecessary flourishes here; just craft, clarity, and conviction. It’s an invitation to slow down and rediscover the art of quiet storytelling in song.
The Sheyana Band Present ‘All The Best’
Tasmania’s Sheyana Band have always worn their musical influences on their sleeve: blues, soul, country and rock are blended into songs that feel lived-in rather than assembled. “All The Best,” released in mid-October 2025, arrives as a career-shorthand: a compilation that stitches three new studio tracks into a selection of fan favourites from Big Love and the Ricochet EP. For listeners curious where the band sits today, it’s an eminently generous primer.
The record kicks off with “Forth Valley Blues”, an opening that sets the tone with its raw, raucous and unapologetically electric delivery. The track places Sheyana squarely in the experimental side of the blues with its funk, rock and electric influences. It’s a statement that immediately signals authenticity, and that’s the album’s strength: it sounds like a band who live and breathe this music, not one chasing a trend.
“Remarkable Man” is an energetic re-recording of their hit from the Ricochet EP, and arrives like an adrenaline rush rather than a heavy impact. The electrifying guitar lines and propulsive drums frame the storytelling wonderfully, allowing Sheyana’s powerful delivery to shine even brighter.
Their hit track from the Big Love album, “Soul Sister,” is also featured in the collection, and marks a point where the album softens into seduction and warmth. It’s a reminder of Sheyana’s range: the band can swing from grit to soulful blues and make both feel wholly natural.
As a compilation, All The Best balances the rough-hewn energy of live-band playing with studio polish. The sequencing privileges momentum, but eases through soulful mid-tempo numbers. That arc helps the record avoid a common pitfall of “greatest hits” collections and presents itself as a coherent album of its own.
All The Best works on two levels: as an accessible entry point for newcomers, and as a modest reward for fans. It isn’t a radical reinvention, but it consolidates the Sheyana Band’s strengths: expressive vocals, muscular roots instrumentation, and an authentic blues/soul sensibility.
Circus Mind Present “Melt Away” With Guest Guitarist Scott Metzger
Circus Mind makes a powerful statement with their latest single, “Melt Away,” an energetic track that starts out steady and swells into a relentless sonic delivery. With its evocative writing and texturally varied instrumentation, this is one of those songs that grabs your attention and refuses to let go until the very end.
The lyrics on this track almost venture into psychedelic territory, tackling themes of climate dread and personal dissolution through a message to the Earth with the opening lines “Dear Gaia, can you make it rain?”. It draws on images of humanity meeting the fate of the dinosaurs and mountains meeting the sea to paint an apocalyptic picture.
The message of Melt Away is delivered by arranging the track as a gradual escalation. The single starts out with a focus on the vocals, but the drums and guitars kick in soon enough to give it a more powerful hard-rock sound. But this too changes into a more electronic, synth-driven movement before Metzger comes on board with an incredible guitar solo that encapsulates the chaos that the lyrics depict.
What stands out on this track is how well every segment is arranged. Despite having five distinct sections in just over four minutes, nothing ever feels out of place, reminding you that the members of Circus Mind are seasoned performers who know how to craft a record.
Unsurprisingly, the production on this track is top-notch, with the mix favoring clarity for the rhythm section and keys, while the guitar sits slightly forward when it needs to. The drums are punchy without sounding overengineered, and the reverb and distortion are done just right whenever they’re used.
Melt Away is an effective evolution for Circus Mind, an evocative, cinematic mood while retaining that experimental spirit that they’re known for. The standout guitar cameo from Scott Metzger is a tasteful addition, and this track is a rewarding listen for fans who like their indie rock with texture and narrative heft.
https://www.circusmindband.com/
https://www.instagram.com/circusmindband/
Miguel Kertsman Releases ‘Paradoxes’
Miguel Kertsman is a multitalented Brazilian-American musician and an accomplished composer, producer, engineer and arranger. Miguel has incorporated many different styles and genres throughout his music career including contemporary classical, jazz, rock and world music. On his latest release, ‘Paradoxes’, Kertsman has decided to dive into progressive rock and tackle a style of music that inspired him as a young man. Fans of YES, Emerson Lake & Palmer, Pink Floyd and Patrick Moraz will truly appreciate what Miguel Kertsman has created here on the new album.
‘Paradoxes’ is a concept album whose parts are all played live-in-the-space on original vintage instruments, along with drums, bass, guitars, and vocals, captured through only a few microphones. This unique approach to music production makes this record extra special and definitely stands out. Going back in time to the classic Prog rock records and art rock concepts, Miguel Kertsman looks to capture some of that magic again with his own twist on ‘Paradoxes’.
Miguel can be heard playing piano, harpsichord, pipe organ, vintage analog keyboards & synthesizers and handled vocals on two tracks. The album also features Drew Sarich & Loren (Saiphe) Kertsman on vocals, Titus Vadon, Matheus Jardim and Michael Schatzmann on drums, Stefan Bernheimer on guitars and Helmut Schartlmüller on bass. Right out of the gates on “Enclosed Pathways”, a suspenseful and scary start leads into an explosion of sound that will blow your mind. A slow ‘n’ steady tempo, nice work on the keys and fascinating dynamics can be heard on the following composition titled “Postlude, Letting Go”. Track three, “Still Currents”, provides a lively burst of energy that combines with an intriguing world of wonder. The mysterious tone keeps you guessing from beginning to end on “Still Currents”. A bit of mystique hits the listener on “Red Blue Sky” where Miguel delivers a spellbinding performance. With so much depth and superb direction, “Jubilant Anxiety” hits on all the right notes and makes for one profound experience. Miguel Kertsman delivers a bold performance on “Fanfare in Quietude” as this one really POPS from start to finish. Miguel is diving deep into the “Atemporal Ocean” where one will enter the chill zone and hear atmospheric music for the ages. Welcome to the wonderful world of “Postlude, Waterverse” where dreams become reality. The listener will receive pure finesse on “Then Is Now” and then you will gather all of your thoughts and contemplate the rich notes on “Postlude, Nostalgic Future”. Track 12, “i-Clock”, is intuitive & entertaining where time is ticking away but the maestro is in full control. Miguel has a burning desire to create true art through progressive-minded music and this is highly evident by the end of the record on “Liquid Fire Single Radio Edit”.
Miguel Kertsman is not afraid to push musical boundaries and he proves this on ‘Paradoxes’. Miguel gives you Prog Rock for the new age and his creativity on the new album is off the charts. Come ONE, come ALL and enter the realm of ‘Paradoxes’ and allow Miguel Kertsman to be your musical guide for this journey.
By Jimmy Rae
Larry Douglas Releases ‘Music Speaks For Me’ [Deluxe]
This new EP is a melting pot of infused styles as Larry Douglas is animate about the concept of “sound painting”. With elements of jazz, R&B, old-school and new-school hip-hip, ‘Music Speaks For Me’ is like a musical buffet. Listeners can select what they like with a wide selection of tasty tracks to choose from. Larry Douglas will excite your ears with music that doesn’t just speak for him, but for many souls out there.
The record includes Larry Douglas on trumpet, muted trumpet, vibes and flute, LaDamon Douglas on synthesizer, piano, Rhodes, drum programming and scratches, Clifford Lamb on piano, Prentice Spry on piano, Essiet Essiet on bass, Garret Douglas on bass and Jorge Pineda on congos, bongos and clave. With so many different instruments and elements being played upon, ‘Music Speaks For Me’ makes for one fulfilling listen. Music Speaks For Me’ definitely has something for everyone.
The EP kicks off with the title track, “Music Speaks For Me (Feat. Gregory Cone)”, and a smooth-as-ice flow hits your eardrums immediately. With a tight beat in place on “Music Speaks For Me”, you will sway to the left and sway to the right the whole time. Next, we hear an original take on a classic R&B hit as Larry Douglas puts his own spin on “Return of the Mack (Feat. Amen Kush & Jorge Pineda)”. This version of “Return of the Mack” is instrumentally on point with a very distinct and unique approach by Larry Douglas. There is plenty of flavor for everyone on “Return of the Mack” with a bangin’ beat to boot. Track three, “Me and My Cohiba (Feat. Rem Dog)”, has a slick rhythm and catchy hook that will attract many listeners. “Me and My Cohiba” is rhymin’ and stylin’ at its finest! The next song is “Outstanding” and a real attention-grabber that musically & vocally shines. Track five, “They Call Her Zadie Mae (Feat. Clifford Lamb)”, is simply jazzy goodness that is nice ‘n’ mellow. “They Call Her Zadie Mae” has a relaxing vibe overall that will put you at ease. Larry Douglas is going out with a bang and displaying pure class on “All I Am”. Some stellar playing can be heard on “All I Am” to the sound of a classic, golden melody.
Larry Douglas knows how to merge genres and elements in a way that works perfectly and comes across as a winning combination. Larry keeps it all fresh on the new record and he isn’t afraid to take chances musically. Music is the universal language and ‘Music Speaks For Me’ will connect with many people out there.
https://www.facebook.com/ladamon.douglas
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By Jimmy Rae
Major Spark with ‘Walk Among The Poppies’
Major Spark is a talented duo based in Boston and the energy is off the charts on the new release, ‘Walk Among The Poppies’. Major Spark has that likability factor with catchy hooks and positive themes. ‘Walk Among The Poppies’ will electrify your senses and get you excited as you listen to the 10-track album.
Major Spark was formed by longtime friends and musical partners Mark Goodman and Brian Charles. Mark is well-versed in the indie/underground music scene while Brian is also an accomplished producer, engineer and songwriter. Together, the dynamic duo has created music that can be appreciated by many on ‘Walk Among The Poppies’. This new record will majorly spark your interests and keep you entertained from start to finish!
As soon as you hit play, you will step into “The Other Side” where edgy vocals collide with rockin’ chords to make up one solid jam. Next, Major Spark is locked & loaded with one catchy melody on “Be My Key” and this song also features Miranda Serra. Track three, “I’ll Make It Up To You”, offers up infectious energy where the listener will be very much invested throughout the entire recording. You will receive a distinct tone that stands out in a crowd on the following number, “Strawberry Road”. Get ready for some cool, country swag that collides with a little rocky top pop on “Take It Too Far”. The title track is up now and “Walk Among The Poppies” is musically rich with interesting dynamics that truly work and keep you engaged. It’s time to head to the “Mountains” and enter the hangout zone where you get a real gritty texture and a solid performance. Track eight, “Back In Time”, provides a happy-go-lucky vibe where this composition appears to be heading in the right direction. Prepare for the “Perfect Star” where a sparkling hook and fan-friendly sound will draw you in. Major Spark proves to shine through and shine on as “Perfect Star” spins round ‘n’ round. The closing song, “Birds Aren’t Real”, supplies lyrics that will rattle your senses and have you question everything high & low.
Major Spark has original material that will catch on with the masses due to upbeat tempos and effective melodies. With hopeful messages and a super cool style, ‘Walk Among The Poppies’ is a major success already in my book. Give Major Spark a shot and allow yourself to ‘Walk Among The Poppies’ for one adventurous listen!
https://www.majorsparkmusic.com/
https://www.instagram.com/majorsparkmusic/
By Jimmy Rae
Camille K Presents “Let’s Face It”
Camille K’s “Let’s Face It” is a quietly confident pop single that wears vulnerability like a style choice. Intimate and carefully produced, the song finds her balancing warm songwriting instincts with contemporary pop-production touches, delivering a playlist-friendly mood that leans toward R&B-tinged pop.
Lyrically the track centers on confronting fear and opening up as small, specific images of hesitation give way to a greater message about taking chances. Camille writes from the front lines of emotion with the words feeling conversational and confessional, which helps the song feel more relatable rather than theatrical.
The arrangement is uncluttered and deliberately paced with soft guitars and subtle melodic lines creating a warm bed for the vocals. Restrained programmed drums and atmospheric touches let the moments of intensity breathe rather than compete.
Camille’s voice is the emotional anchor, as she delivers with a mix of youthfully candid phrasing and surprising tonal control. It’s breathy in the softer moments, and fuller on the hook. Her delivery sells the vulnerability without sounding overwrought, and there’s an honesty here that makes it all the more appealing.
On a technical level the single favors clarity: the vocal sits forward, and the low end is supportive rather than dominant. acoustic elements blend with tasteful programming to give the track an intimate late-night character that’s polished without sounding overproduced.
“Let’s Face It” is a well-crafted pop single that showcases Camille K’s growth as both writer and performer. It’s modern without being trendy for trendiness’ sake, and should resonate with listeners who favor emotionally honest pop with subtle production flourishes. If Camille continues to pair this level of songwriting with thoughtful production choices, she’s carving a clear lane for herself.
https://www.instagram.com/camillekmusic/
Patrisha Thomson Presents “Your Love”
Seasoned jazz vocalist Patrisha Thomson makes a long-awaited return with her latest album, “Your Love.” Released four years after her last full-length album, Your Love is a polished, warmly sung record that balances familiar standards, thoughtful arrangements, and one striking original.
The track selection is thoughtful and classy, with Thomson fronting a small session band and leaning into an intimate, late-night jazz-club aesthetic. There’s a clear melodic focus on every track, and the arrangements favor lyric and phrasing over flashy solos.
The album opens with “Robbin’s Nest,” a classic written by Sir Charles Thompson and popularized by the likes of Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie. Patrisha’s vocals are the highlight of this track, as she masterfully weaves melodies through bright tenor sax and piano arrangements.
https://patrishamusic.com/release/your-love/
https://www.discogs.com/release/35346604-Patrisha-Thomson-Your-Love
The titular track, “Your Love,” is a standout moment, with its incredibly catchy drum groove. The piano and bass sections are toned down, but exquisitely crafted to perfectly accompany the lyrics. The track is light and lively, making it a great fit for its mid-record placement.
The album closes out with a soulful delivery of Stevie Wonder’s 1976 classic, “If it’s Magic” which is a duet with Valerie Monroe. This track also features a change in instrumentation, with Patrisha’s & Valerie’s vocals being backed by a cello and harp arrangement. With its mesmerizing atmosphere, If it’s Magic is a perfect slow ballad to close out the album.
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3oASH77eNg7RheoCAoEP87
Production-wise the record is clean and radio-ready without sounding too sanitized. It still retains the warmth and intimacy of a live performance, with the mix keeping Thomson’s voice front-and-center while giving the band room to breathe.
The greatest strength of Your Love is that it stays uncluttered, with quiet ballads and mid-tempo pieces letting Thomson’s emotional clarity shine. There’s nothing radical here, and fans of classic vocal jazz are sure to appreciate the record’s restraint and craft.
Craig Greenberg Presents “Some Peace of Mind”
Craig Greenberg’s latest single “Some Peace of Mind” arrives as a burst of sunlit, horn-driven piano soul; a tune that trades some of the intimate singer-songwriter introspection of his earlier records for full-bodied NYC soul. The song premiered in late October 2025 and will open his forthcoming full-length album due in early 2026.
At its heart, the track is a blues-inflected piano rocker that leans heavily into classic R&B tropes. The arrangement foregrounds the piano and a sassy horn section, giving the song a rowdy, celebratory swing. It’s a welcome change from the reflective tone of many of Greenberg’s previous ballads and chamber-pop moments.
Lyrically the song reads as a letter of gratitude for finding a sense of inner peace. It’s a testament to Craig’s resilience set to a dance beat. That balancing of reflective lyricism with upbeat instrumental optimism is what makes the song special: it’s soulful storytelling with a toe-tapping arrangement.
The song’s arrangement is tight, with tasteful additions of trumpet and sax beyond the backbone of bass, piano and percussion. Craig’s vocals shine, but don’t dominate the mix, letting the rhythm section set the atmosphere. The production is warm and live-feeling to compliment the overall vibe, but never goes far enough to sound overproduced.
Some Peace of Mind is a successful stretch for Craig Greenberg, as it’s his most unabashedly horn-forward, danceable single to date. However, it’s still grounded in the piano-based songwriting that defines him, and fans who appreciate his craft as a piano poet will find plenty to love.
https://www.instagram.com/craiggreenbergmusic/
https://www.facebook.com/craiggreenbergmusic
https://www.tiktok.com/@craig_greenberg
http://craiggreenbergmusic.com/
REBEKAH SNYDER AND ADAM CUNNINGHAM Present “DON’T EVER DATE A YANKEE”
Rebekah Snyder and Adam Cunningham deliver a spirited and soulful classic country duet with their latest single, “Don’t Ever Date a Yankee.” Sitting squarely in the Americana lane, this single is bound to go down well with country music fans while offering enough contemporary polish to engage a broader audience.
The single opens with a drifting, low‐sung acoustic guitar, soon joined by Snyder’s hushed vocals. The drums kick in at a slow tempo with a distant sound in the opening sequence, conjuring images of lonely country roads. The intensity ramps up pretty quick though, as Adam joins with a powerful verse, driving the guitars up with electric grit and pedal steel flourishes.
Lyrically, the song frames itself into the classic Romeo-and-Juliet archetype and tells a tale of forbidden romance. But under the playful facade lies a more serious message of challenging outdated divisions and finding common ground.
For Rebekah Snyder, “Don’t Ever Date a Yankee” marks a subtle shift from her earlier hit single, “America,” which was a stripped‐down acoustic ballad rooted in personal narrative. Cunningham, on the other hand, is already known for his time on The Voice, but this duet provides an opportunity to showcase his diversity by taking on a character role and joining in a narrative.
The production, credited to Nashville producer Dean Miller, does a great job of balancing authenticity and polish. The rhythm section is constructed spaciously, letting the vocalists and guitar solos shine. The harmonies between Snyder’s drawl and Cunningham’s rasp steal the spotlight, and add a cinematic‐duet flair.
“Don’t Ever Date a Yankee” is a commendable step forward for both Rebekah Snyder and Adam Cunningham. It’s richly produced, emotionally grounded, and roots-oriented without being backward‐looking. For listeners who appreciate country and Americana with storytelling depth, this single delivers.
https://www.instagram.com/rebekahsnyderofficial/
https://www.facebook.com/rebekahsnyderofficial/
@skopemag Review – ‘Postcard From London’ by California™ – feat. Les Fradkin
California™ (feat. Les Fradkin) returns with their latest full-length release: “Postcard from London.” Utilizing 60s/70s pop textures across covers of 9 pop classics and 13 originals, this album arrives as a warm, nostalgia-tinged record that functions both as a tribute and as a modern indie-pop release.
While this nostalgia-suffused collection acts as a great showcase for Les Fradkin’s strengths as a multi-instrumentalist/producer, it does so without ever compromising on California™’s retro-pop aesthetic. With 22 tracks the album reads like a mixtape of sunny jangle-pop, melodic singer-songwriter pieces, and affectionate covers.
The album opens with “Fellow Travelers,” a harmony driven single set to a brisk percussion that you can’t get out of your head. The synths, guitars, and soaring vocals add energy to the track, making it the perfect album opener.
https://californiatm-featlesfradkin.bandcamp.com/album/postcard-from-london
Postcard From London also features a few covers of classics that the Fradkins had also released as singles. Notable examples include Les and Loretta’s covers of “The Mighty Quinn,” “Brown-eyed Girl” and “Good Vibrations.” In each of these cases, the spirit of the song is retained, paying respect to the original artists while Les adds his own twists to the melody and arrangement.
It might be a bit early for the festive season, but the album includes a couple of holiday specials as well with “Christmas Vacation” and “A Christmas Gone Too Soon.” What stands out about these tracks is that they don’t lean too heavily into the Christmas song archetype, and preserve that classic pop sound while integrating elements like church bells to generate that Christmas vibe.
The production on this album is characteristic of California™ and maintains a consistent tonal palette across the record. You get vintage keyboard colors, clean but warm guitar tones, and an overall mix that emphasizes melody and vocal clarity. Even though the Mellotron is Les’ specialty, it never crowds the mix, and instead blends perfectly into layered arrangements.
Postcard From London is a warm, affectionate album for lovers of melodic, retro-tinged pop. Its strength is its ability to balance familiar covers with well-crafted originals that sustain the record’s emotional throughline. Fans of Les Fradkin’s long career and listeners who enjoy tidy, melody-forward production with vintage textures will find a lot to like.
Miss J Presents ‘22424’
Miss J, the force behind The Miss J Experience, has carved out a niche with her self-coined ROCKHOUSE aesthetic; an electrifying mash-up of classic rock’s raw grit and house music’s pulsating energy. Her latest single “22424” arrives as a potent distillation of that formula, and showcases the New York-based singer-songwriter’s skills at their peak.
With its hard-hitting lyrics and upbeat instrumentation, this track is a dance-floor igniter that’s equal parts therapy session and club banger. The chorus delivers the simple yet powerful lyrics: “I thought you were with me/ You used me for release,” that solidify her shift toward more vulnerable storytelling wrapped in high-octane production.
The single begins as a mid-tempo house track, but this is where “22424″ shines as a masterclass in dynamic tension and release. The standout element is a super clean BPM shift that seamlessly accelerates the track into a full-throttle house frenzy, with electric guitar riffs kicking in alongside an energetic percussion.
The change in tempo is matched by a change in lyrical themes as well, as she shifts from a tale of trauma to healing. “I had to heal to recover/ I had to break down to finally find me” is delivered with an incredibly satisfying vocal power that leads into an increasingly energetic final verse.
The production on this track is really well done, with layers of synth stabs, echoing reverb on her vocals, and subtle rock-infused percussion creating a spacious yet immersive soundscape. It’s polished enough for streaming playlists but raw in its emotional delivery.
Overall, “22424” is a solid single that fits right in on your dance playlists. It’s not reinventing the wheel, but spins it with ferocious style, making heartbreak feel like a prelude to the party. For fans of genre mash-ups or anyone needing an auditory hug that slaps, stream it now on your platform of choice.
https://themissjexperience.com/
@themissjexperience
https://www.instagram.com/themissjexperience
@skopemag Review – Bongo Boy TV – Season 14 Episode 9 – “Fall Into Space”
Bongo Boy TV – Season 14 Episode 9 (Aired September 2025, Now Streaming ) – “Fall Into Space” featuring music videos from around the world by award-winning independent artists.
Dirty garage rock rages through with the Ex-Bombers’ “He’s A Bad, Bad Man.” They get into the swing of things, featuring grimy guitar licks over a ramshackle beat. Best of all are the lyrics that speak to the darker side of things.
Meresha blends electro-pop and R&B with the angular “Trouble.” The chords have this glossy, fine finish. Giddiness dominates the vocals as they capture a sense of gleeful abandon from the ordinary.
The gritty rock-infused EDM blast of “We Choose To Go The Moon” has Stonks Bros embody the dancefloor fusion of Justice. Volume is a given, with the whole sounds feeling purely chaotic, as arpeggios scale up and down the walls. Such a physicality and the vocoder usage feel completely on point, nicely rounding off the atmosphere.
An intimacy emerges out of the subdued splendor of Scott McDonald’s well-crafted, timeless grace of “One Mistake I Can’t Repeat.” The lyrics shift the gaze inward, and the self-reflection is soothing. He builds the song up in this glorious way, making sure every single moment counts.
Neon blooms of color explode on “Heartbeats” with Nashville, TN & Estonia. Highly energetic, this feels like a gigantic blur, a speeding through beautiful, green spaces. The triumphant horns are a delicate touch, adding to the peacefulness.
Physicality runs through Matt LeGrand’s satisfyingly sweet “All Good.” Genre-wise, it combines tropical dub influences with dance elements. The resulting mix swirls about in this bold, brilliant haze.
Van Gordon Martin embraces urban living with reggae on the infectious basslines of “Let It Grow.” The low-end has a satisfying cadence, feeling doubly refreshing. Word choice matters, as the verses embrace a sense of quiet contentment.
Sounds fold and unfold to the neo-hip-hop of LBM’s “Stranded.” Syncopated, skittering snares go perfectly with the track’s sense of purpose. A singular guitar adds a lot of soul to the equation, aligning flawlessly with the vocals. This ends the whole experience on a high note.
Bongo Boy TV – Season 14 Episode 9 (Aired September 2025) – “Fall Into Space” featuring music videos from around the world by award-winning independent artists.
In heavy rotation for 4 weeks in the USA on 72+ TV terrestrial TV channels in September 2025. See TVGuide at bongoboytv.com for your local listing. The Premier Date was Tuesday September 2, 2025, on Ch. 29 in Portland, Oregon, and followed with heavy rotation on a total of 72+ Terrestrial TV channels. Bongo Boy Rock n Roll TV Show Series 14th Season.
Summary Listing of Featured Artists – Music Videos:
The Ex-Bombers – He’s A Bad, Bad Man
Meresha – Trouble
Stonks Bros. We Choose To Go The Moon
Scott McDonald – One Mistake I Can’t Repeat
The Winter Sounds – Heartbeats
Matt LeGrand – All Good
Van Gordon Martin – Let It Grow
LBM – Stranded
Maya Mendez Presents ‘Through and Through’
In her latest single “Through and Through,” Maya Méndez delivers a quietly affecting statement of love and self-assurance that reinforces her growing reputation as one of indie pop’s most emotionally articulate new voices. Known for her warm fusion of pop and R&B, the LA-based singer-songwriter pares down the production and pacing here to deliver a delicate and deeply resonant track.
At its heart, “Through and Through” is a song of lost love, but completely stripped of spectacle. Each line feels conversational, as if overheard in the half-light of early morning. Maya’s writing is powerful and full of heart, a hallmark of her emerging style that we saw on earlier singles like “Have you fun” and “Worthy (See a Future).”
STREAMING:
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What’s unique about this single is Maya’s approach, as lines like “ ’cause you’re artificial, unintelligent and / You’ll never really have the guts to let me go.” are uncharacteristically direct and biting. The emotional core comes in the chorus; “I can’t believe I let you hurt me like that/ I can′t believe you didn’t love me right back/ I never thought you′d be okay/ Watching me so far away,” displaying a sense of vulnerability that draws you right in.
But the real kicker is how Maya evolves the narrative throughout the track, closing the song with a smart inversion of the chorus, “I never thought I′d be okay/ Wanting you so far away.” It takes her from being a helpless victim to the point where she’s ready to heal and move on.
The arrangement mirrors the lyrics’ emotional transparency. A softly plucked acoustic guitar sits at the center, joined only by subtle percussion. Rather than crowd the space, the instrumentation breathes, with every element designed to frame Maya’s voice. The gentle vocal layering in the bridge and chorus adds texture without sacrificing immediacy.
It’s the vocal performance carries the song as Maya’s delivery is confident but never forceful. She leans into breathy phrasing during the verses, and opens up in the chorus with a controlled warmth that feels earned.
For listeners familiar with her earlier singles “Through and Through” represents a clear evolution. It may not aim for instant radio hooks, but that’s precisely its strength. The reward lies in its subtlety: the small inflections, the quiet pauses, and the emotional sincerity that accumulates over repeat listens. With this release, Maya Méndez continues to carve out her lane as an artist on the rise.
ONLINE:
https://www.instagram.com/mayamend3z
https://mayamendez.net/throughandthrough.bio
Hi Tide Rolling In with ‘Caribbean Way’
Hi Tide is a dynamic duo that includes Shane Allenger and Sean Hennings and the group hails from the Cayman Islands. That tropical flavor is in full effect on ‘Caribbean Way’, but honestly Hi Tide is a sensational pop act due to the way the duo crafts a song. The vibe is sweet and the music is sweeter, so allow Hi Tide to show you the ‘Caribbean Way’.
Hi Tide is no stranger to the music world with 12, full-length studio albums and 30 years as a group. The connection and camaraderie between Shane and Sean are a beautiful thing to witness on the new release. The listener will sense that Hi Tide is a tight unit immediately and this level of commitment to produce high-quality recordings together is quite evident. ‘Caribbean Way’ is an accomplished record and one that will stand the test of time due to Hi Tide’s hard work and long-standing dedication to the art.
We start with the title track, “Caribbean Way”, and right away snappy, happy notes are hitting your ears. With pleasing vocals and nice harmony, Hi Tide invites you to soak it all in and embrace “Caribbean Way”. Next, we hear “I’ll Be Your Baby Tonight” that is comforting and has a sort of warmth to it that shines through musically. It’s time to set sail and enjoy the “Simple” joys of life note by note. “Simple” offers smooth musical direction overall and one song that stands out for sure. We push play next and get “Lucky” because a catchy beat and tone immediately overtakes you. “Lucky” is massively appealing and will spark your senses from beginning to end. If you enjoy a sweet-sounding pop song with feeling galore, then “High On You” is your ticket. We glide into “Spot Bay Blues” next and this song tells a cool story about a life well-lived. “Spot Bay Blues” is lyrically strong and a well-constructed composition that flows along wonderfully. Moving along, “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is so lively and a standout performance where Hi Tide is bringing the heat and playing like true champs! “Island In the Sun” is feel-good music for the soul with its chill zone atmosphere, bright vocals and sunny guitar chords. Let’s just sit back, relax and “Daydream” for a bit thanks to Hi Tide’s easy-breezy performance. Prepare for salty notes swimming through your ear canals and a gentle breeze hitting you on “Whiskey Shot”. Just leave your worries at home and enjoy the beachy presence as you throw down a nice, strong “Whiskey Shot”.
With inventive covers and heartfelt originals, ‘Caribbean Way’ has something for everyone to jive to. Hi Tide is the total package with high-level musicianship and a genuine element that can be appreciated by many. With regular play on Kenny Chesney’s “No Shoes Radio” station on Sirius XM, Hi Tide continues to ride a wave of success for multiple singles. ‘Caribbean Way’ is well on its way to gain heavy traction, hit the charts and attract new fans along the way! The duo’s Facebook page describes the style as “soothing pop music with a tropical twist” and ‘Caribbean Way’ is a perfect addition to this ever so popular lineup! Hi Tide has rolled in and ‘Caribbean Way’ is one for the ages!
https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_l3zkN7hWMlqSvBS7bCxwx2QIT5Ywf1JJY&si=0Awn271xbhhuo2wf
Instagram: @hi_tide_music_345
https://www.facebook.com/HiTideMusic
By Jimmy Rae
RICH SIEGEL Presents “IT’S ALWAYS BEEN YOU”
Over the years, Rich Siegel has carved out a distinct niche as a musician operating in the vocal jazz/piano-songbook space. Continuing with his signature approach of blending musical styles and personal expression, Rich Siegel leans inwards to mood, tone, and interpretation with his latest release: “It’s Always Been You.”
It’s Always Been You arrives in 2025 in a context where many jazz vocalists are returning to more intimate settings, favoring clarity of song over big, flashy arrangements. Siegel places himself firmly in that camp: the instrumentation is spare, the production direct, and the repertoire brims with a mix of originals and familiar jazz standards.
The album’s personal dimension is worth noting, as the liner credits dedicate it to Rich’s late brother, Mark Siegel. The overarching mood is fitting: it’s one of gentle introspection and emotional honesty.
https://richsiegel.bandcamp.com/album/it-s-always-been-you
The album opens with “Spring Again,” a bright number that sets the tone for the rest of the album. It’s lyrical, hopeful, and showcases Siegel’s voice and piano in close partnership. The sparseness of the opening verses lets the lyricism shine before the melody takes over. You can hear right away that this album is about clarity and subtlety.
“Les Feuilles Mortes” (Autumn Leaves), is Siegel’s rendition of the French classic, and a standout track on the album. It’s hard to get tired of being serenaded by Siegel, but the stylistic choice to make the album multilingual is perfect as it keeps the record fresh for newer listeners.
Clocking in at just over five minutes, the closing track, “Bryant Pond,” allows more space for the trio to stretch and for Siegel to reflect. The mood is contemplative, and it’s a great fit for closing an album that feels like a quiet evening’s reflection.
Overall, this is a peaceful and mature album from Rich Siegel; one that doesn’t shout for attention, yet earns it through sincerity, musicality, and taste. For listeners who appreciate vocal jazz done with care, this is a rewarding listen.
Collaborations Releases “You Gotta Know”
Collaborations is all about “crafting songs with a heart” and I feel it all the way on the new single titled “You Gotta Know”! The meaning behind the group name is fitting because its mission is to empower artists by way of creativity and community. The level of creativity is off the charts for Collaborations and that sense of camaraderie is heard loud & clear on “You Gotta Know”.
Collaborations is based in Stratford, Connecticut and this latest project was written by founder Ed Daniels and co-written by Anais Preller. The mastermind behind the music is producer is Vic Steffens who put together a polished record that POPS! “You Gotta Know” offers an inspiring message about the world around us and how we can make it a better place to live in. The single features an impressive lineup of musicians including Scott Spray of the Johnny Winter Band and others. “You Gotta Know” also includes Kevin Monroe/ Simone Brown & Devotion on piano, Matt Oestreicher (Stevie Wonder, Lady Gaga) on lead guitar and arranger, Tim DeHuff (George Duke, Lee Ritenour) on rhythm guitar, Ed Daniels on bass and Tommy Naggy (Lucky Peterson) on drums. The musical richness and pure artistry are put on full display for the entire world to hear and “You Gotta Know” that’s true!
As soon as you hit play, Collaborations will soothe your ears and satisfy your soul and this feeling will continue for the entirety of “You Gotta Know”. This track is vocally strong with pleasant melodies and harmonies that will stick to you like glue. This single has a wonderful sound overall and one that will attract a large audience. Collaborations provides a top-notch performance overall and pristine musicianship and so it’s safe to say “You Gotta Know” is one for the ages!
Collaborations is dubbed “a fusion of purpose and melody” and the listener will receive plenty of that on the new recording. The group puts everything in perspective with this solid statement, “Collaborations is not just a project; it’s a revival of music with a soul, crafted with a deep respect for the art of songwriting.” I couldn’t have said it better myself because the audience will sense the dedication and passion behind every single note and lyric. “You Gotta Know” is a big success for Collaborations and one that people of all ages can appreciate and enjoy. “You Gotta Know” that individuals from ALL walks of life will connect with this tune and that’s the God’s honest truth courtesy of Collaborations.
You can also SKOPE out the official music video for “You Gotta Know” right here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=49VoryAbuAA&t=55s.
https://collaborationsmusic.com/
https://www.facebook.com/Collaborationsmusic36
https://www.instagram.com/colaborations36/
By Jimmy Rae
Dusty Edinger Presents ‘Sometimes People Collide’
Following up on his experimental album “Handsome Bully Level-Headed Zombies,” Dusty Edinger crafts a more classic pop-rock moment with his latest single, “Sometimes People Collide.” Polished, hook-driven and emotionally grounded, this isn’t a track meant to shatter expectations, but a smart consolidation of his strengths to craft a piece that appeals to general audiences.
From the outset, the song presents a clean sonic palette with shimmering guitars, measured drums, and clear vocals with a gentle warmth. The production favours immediacy over sonic experimentation: this is the kind of track built to register with the first listen and became a staple on your easy listening playlist from there onwards.
STREAMING:
https://open.spotify.com/track/6cuk49tdvkjXGtbxGleou6?si=4b4fa9756cb545df
VIDEO:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y5K5sdljoqk
The song’s driving force is its melody, as Edinger’s vocal line across the verse rises into a strong, memorable chorus. The backing harmonies and subtle layering are especially tasteful as they enrich the hook. The instrumentation stands well on its own, but it leaves space for the vocal to breathe with the arrangement never feeling cluttered.
The lyrics of “Sometimes People Collide” take us into familiar territory: the emotional tension and bittersweet intersections of connection and conflict. The sense is that people will meet, butt up against each other, sometimes hurt, and sometimes reconcile. Edinger doesn’t go into abstract metaphor here and chooses to deliver a concrete emotional narrative.
Thematically, the song sits somewhere between confession and reconciliation. It contrasts with Edinger’s catalogue as a more focused work. The production is more streamlined, with a radio-friendly sound that makes it perfect for drawing in new listeners.
Sometimes People Collide is a strong, smart single that positions Dusty Edinger squarely where his melodic ambition meets commercial sensibility. It may not reinvent him, but it affirms what he does best: write memorable songs about human connection. Edinger is an artist on the rise, and we can’t wait to see what he does next.
ONLINE:
https://www.dustyedinger.com/
https://www.instagram.com/dusty_edinger
https://www.facebook.com/dusty.edinger.2025
Andy Nevala Presents “El Rumbon (The Party)”
Florida-based jazz pianist and composer Andy Nevala makes an electrifying statement with his latest work, “El Rumbón (The Party).” Nevala has long been a vibrant presence in the Latin jazz scene, and has always shown an affinity for Afro-Cuban rhythms in his work.
From the first notes, El Rumbón stakes its claim: this is Latin jazz full of heart and a willingness to surprise. Nevala mingles respect for tradition with fresh rhythmic daring, as he applies his signature style to a range of classics with ensemble interplay that pulses with energy.
The album opens with a rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely” that preserves the catchy melody of the original, but rearranges the rhythm into a groovier Afro-Cuban style. This single is the perfect opener, as it delivers bright choruses that can hook even casual listeners, while also featuring a complex interplay between the keys and percussion in the interlude that’ll impress even seasoned jazz enthusiasts.
The title track, “El Rumbón (The Party),” is inspired by Chucho Valdes’ 1998 track of the same name. But in this case, the track is elevated to functioning as the album’s manifesto. It begins almost ritualistically, with subtle percussion and muted chords before gradually expanding, as the piano and congas take center stage.
The standout track is the band’s performance of Dizzy Gillespie’s classic “A Night in Tunisia,” reinterpreted in a delightfully offbeat 7/4-time. This rhythmic complexity adds an extra layer of chaos to an already intense piece, but the performance on this track is flawless. The band never misses a beat and sustains the energy from the first note all the way to the last, making for an incredibly satisfying performance.
El Rumbón works best when taken as a journey. It opens with propulsive energy, explores rhythmic and harmonic terrain, allows you to catch your breath, then pulls you back into the dance. The sequencing is smart, with energetic tracks clustering and then being balanced by lighter, more reflective numbers.
Andy Nevala’s latest work has all the makings of a Latin jazz classic, and for fans of the genre, this one’s a must-listen.
https://www.andynevalamusic.com/
Little King Swingin’ For the Fences with ‘Lente Viviente’
Little King has been going strong since 1996, as a band, and ‘Lente Viviente’ is one of the band’s most highly anticipated releases to date. This new record really highlights the group’s range vocally, lyrically and musically as Little King looks to blow minds & ears! Recorded at a fresh, new music studio, the stage is set for Little King to have massive success with the brand new album titled ‘Lente Viviente’.
The album features seven, standout-tracks with each composition carefully placed and constructed with the utmost precision. The current lineup for Little King includes frontman and vocalist & guitarist Ryan Rosoff, David Hamilton on bass & cello, Tony Bojorquez on drums and Laura Sadie Bette on backing vocals on tracks four & seven. ‘Lente Viviente’ was engineered by Ricky Wascher Tavares at Cimamusic in Tucson, AZ,
Mixed by Daniel Salcido at Command Space Audio in Los Angeles, CA and Mastering by Maor Appelbaum at Maor Appelbaum Mastering. Also, hat’s off to Savannah Maher on the album art because it is eye-catching, to say the least! The cover features a detailed king’s crown on top of an elaborate lens displaying the three Little King members inside. Right away, the listener will be drawn into Little King’s world just based on the creative cover art.
With elements of metal, hard rock, progressive rock and alternative, ‘Lente Viviente’ is melodic rock at its finest! It is now time to embark on one adventurous expedition, so listen closely and prepare to reel in “Catch and Release”. Right out of the gates, Little King is providing an attention-grabbing rhythm and rockin’ riffs that will keep you engaged throughout the musical voyage. “Catch and Release” is a real crowd-pleaser and a perfect way to kick off ‘Lente Viviente’.
Be sure to Skope out the official music video for “Catch and Release” right here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hgt9U547jbw.
Next, the audience will hear an intriguing arrangement on “Dawn Villa” as Little King truly brings the heat on this enriching number. Track three, “Who’s Illegal?”, is dramatic to the max as the song builds up momentum note by note and lyric by lyric. By the end, the audience will be asking themselves “Who’s Illegal?” and what is the significance? Little King goes with a deep-minded mix on the following song, “Kindness For Weakness”. A sense of sharp intellect collides with human emotions on “Kindness For Weakness” making for one profound listening experience. Track five, “Sweet Jessie James”, is beautifully orchestrated and simply just a well-polished recording and powerful production overall. Little King offers up a very strong performance on “Pass Through Filters” where this song really grabs you vocally & instrumentally. By the end, everything seems to be in full focus for the entire world to hear on “The Living Lens”. All of you music heads enjoy this crystal clear and clean cut because “The Living Lens” fully capture’s the true essence of Little King.
Ryan Rosoff had this to say about the new record, “I think this will be BY FAR our biggest release. The playing, songwriting, and production are our greatest accomplishments. New players on drums and bass, plus a new studio, have really elevated this project. I want people to take a short, mind-blowing journey…like Musical DMT. We are aiming to hit all the notes and emotions…the dynamic range of this record will push and pull from the first note to the last.” Excitement is certainly in the air for this new release as ‘Lente Viviente’ is set to receive major traction! All members of Little King should be very proud of their efforts on this project because ‘Lente Viviente’ is one ambitious record that is a sure-fire hit!
For further reading about the band, check out this in-depth interview I did with Little King last year that chronicled the group’s entire musical catalog: https://skopemag.com/2024/01/26/jimmy-rae-closely-examining-the-entire-catalog-of-little-king.
www.facebook.com/littlekingtunes
www.instagram.com/littlekingtunes
https://ashermediarelations.com/2025/08/21/epk-little-king-lente-viviente-2025/
https://www.youtube.com/@littlekingtunes
By Jimmy Rae
