"Viva Mayday" by Viva Mayday (Rap/Hip-Hop artist from New York City, New York (NY))

"Viva Mayday" is the politically charged self-titled debut from reggae rock outfit Viva Mayday. A typical rock three piece – guitar, bass and drums – Viva Mayday rely heavily upon the upstroke to create their classic reggae sound. They also incorporate punk and classic rock elements into their music, showing their musical talent and diversity. The lead singer's vocals are uniformly in the style of traditional reggae and fused with a variety of musical styles, Viva Mayday show likeliness to Bob Marley, Dispatch, The Clash and Sublime at different points on the album. All the while, their lyrics are reminiscent of Rage Against the Machine. Viva Mayday's songs are jam-packed with socially aware, politically charged lyrics that exploit the bands disgruntledness, for the most part, with American foreign policy. "Viva Mayday" is also well-produced, sure to keep both the music and lyrics polished and audible. "Fidel" opens with an incredible Hendrix-style guitar solo as they sing about "the war machine" and "propane democracy." "Missionaries" reflects the "give peace a chance" mentality of the entire album with a Marley-esque vocal, suggesting that even the people that mean perfectly well are struggling to survive abroad. "1963 Motorcade" is a song about the assassination of JFK and conspiracy theories against the government. "Viva Mayday" is certainly opinionated and controversial. If you enjoy what Rage Against the Machine offers lyrically and punk-infused reggae rock, you should give this album a listen.

-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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“Feed the Need” by Feed the Need (Pop/Rock artist from Long Island, New York (NY))

"Feed the Need" is an enjoyable self-titled rock album with surf rock and jazz elements from Feed the Need. Though all four band members are still in high school, Feed the Need has crafted an album that displays their strong musical capabilities on guitar, bass, drums, and keyboards. The vocals are youthful and the lyrics are full of angst, as many of the songs are undoubtedly about the girls they obsess over at their schools. Nevertheless, you'll find yourself bobbing your head to the beat and singing along with the catchy choruses, agreeing that "Weirdness makes the world go 'round." The title track "Feed the Need" is well recorded and allows these youngsters to be heard to their full potential. "Light Up My World" has great keyboard and guitar progressions at the introduction and a catchy chorus to boot. The highlight of the album is "Without Words," which is an instrumental jam session with great bass and keyboard lines and an impressive guitar solo showcasing the band's musical finesse. Anyone who enjoys quirky, youthful surf rock should check out this fine album.

-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Speak Low" by Bari Hyman (Jazz Artist from New York City, New York(NY))

RadioIndy is pleased to present Bari Hyman with a GrIndie Award for their CD "Speak Low"

 

"Speak Low" by Bari Hyman is a classic Jazz album that puts you right in front of the fireplace with a glass of Brandy. Bari's voice is earthy, rich and her lyrics are delivered gently with a touch of flair. The band behind her is top-notch and there is no shortage of sounds with 7 different instruments to tickle your ear drums. The arrangements are classic and yet innovative. Highlights are the opener "Moonlight in Vermont," which displays the full sound of the band with a high-energy, all inclusive arrangement. The title track "Speak Low," is the most naked of all the tracks and showcases Bari's beautiful voice. "It's Magic" features some beautiful guitar work along with another fine vocal performance. If you enjoy female jazz vocalists you'll like this one.

-William and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team

 

Check out bari hyman's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites