RadioIndy Grindie Awards - All Genres: February 2009

Monday, February 9, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present Stanley Porter with a GrIndie Award for the CD "All To You"

"All To You," is the third album from urban gospel artist Stanley Porter. This release highlights his unique blend of gospel, soul, hip-hop, and R&B. Creating a spiritual experience is the theme of this album, and Porter delivers. Porter combines electrifying, danceable beats with heavy synthesizers and sincere, passionate vocals. He delivers a diverse collection of songs with spiritual, glorifying lyrics unique to his incredibly personal style and to the genre as well. The production is ambient and rich, sounding very professional throughout. Great vocal harmonies and layering is a trademark of Porter's sound. The inspirational anthem "Pray" and the silky "Everything" are perfect examples of this. Also listen to the expressive vocals on the moving "Speak" and the soulful "Righteous." Porter gives us a taste of his style of hip-hop with the uplifting track "Press," where he combines an aggressive groove with his distinctive, storytelling rhymes. Porter has produced an impressive collection of spiritually progressive songs with "All To You," which has a lot to offer for fans of contemporary gospel and Urban/ R&B alike.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Stanley Porter's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Jason Hatfield with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Spirit Groove"

Pastor Jason Hatfield has broken the mold of conventional praise and worship with his impressive release "Spirit Groove." As the title suggests, Hatfield's vision is to uplift the spirit with a musical groove. "Rain" is a tastefully funky opener, setting the tone for an energetic listening experience. The production is clean and professional, characterized by wonderfully layered vocals over a rhythmic backdrop provided by fantastic musicians on live instruments. The aptly titled "Party," is also a lively track filled with emotional vocals and spirited musical performances. The feisty "Rise Up" employs a horn section, playful bass line and silky drum groove to provide yet another enjoyable funky track. There are tender moments as well, such as the gently flowing "Break My Heart," the smooth "I Belong to You," and the graceful "Be My Refuge." The group of musicians Hatfield has assembled for this project is extremely talented, each musician shining throughout this release both individually and collectively. Jason Hatfield's "Spirit Groove" is a very inspirational and impressive release that can be enjoyed by fans of many musical eras and genres including Christian, R&B, Funk, Disco, and Motown.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jason Hatfield 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Jameel Jahmay with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Ready 2 Serve U"

Jameel Jahmay has created a memorable collection of Urban/R&B and Pop with "Ready 2 Serve U," a self-produced album showcasing his many musical talents. Jahmay is a versatile performer, moving seamlessly through the various styles and moods he creates, shining in each setting with his smooth vocal approach and intelligent lyrics. The production is clean and professional, with crisp programming and beats, tasteful vocal layering, and polished musical performances. "Special Greeting" is a lovely, touching ballad, with Jahmay singing straight from his heart. "So Wonderful" has a definite gospel vibe, with Jahmay's vocal range on full display. The creative composition and prominent acoustic guitar on "Find Love" gives this track an airy, live feel. The extremely funky "My Biz" is reminiscent of old-school grooves with a modern, contemporary flair. Jahmay covers many styles with this album and is comfortable and at home in each one. "Ready 2 Serve U" is an impressive release that will appeal to the fans of Urban/R&B, Soul, and Pop music.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Jameel Jahmay 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Hypnotiks with a GrIndie Award for the CD "In the Way"

"In the Way" is the two-song EP from Hypnotiks & Damien Lynch, a production duo from Northwest London that explores new possibilities with their music. The album features two versions of their medium tempo "In the Way," one edition with vocals and an instrumental version. The instrumental version showcases the creative programming of the duo, where inventive beats and drum loops are combined with many melodic textures and colors of sounds. The vocal version adds their intoxicating and hypnotic melodies to mix, layering well-delivered harmonies that provide a smooth feel and depth to the recording. Both versions are memorable and well-produced, with the focus being catchy hooks combined with syncopated drum sounds. This two-song EP is a great introduction to Hypnotiks & Damien Lynch, leaving the listener eager for more. Fans of hip-hop with a chiefly melodic sound will enjoy "In the Way."

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Hypnotiks 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Brother Todd with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Oneman"

"Oneman" is the appropriately titled new release from Michigan based one-man-band Todd Bendler, also known as "Brother Todd." His humble, haunting vocal style lingers in the lower register, giving this album a deep, dark and unique quality. His storytelling lyrics are thought provoking, inspirational, and at times humorous, giving the listener a distinct look into his personality. The entire album is written and produced by Todd, composing the songs on the piano and guitar and then adding the vocals, drum parts and additional parts if needed. Todd also plays all the instruments on each track apart from "You Lift Me Up" and "Gunslinger," where Guy Hedrick plays lead guitar. His music is honest and uplifting with many lyrics about the struggles of everyday life, where Todd offers inspiration. Listen to the heartening "You Lift Me Up" and moving "Dance My Dance." "I'm Feeling Fine" and "I Can't Sing the Blues" are of a more playful, lighthearted nature, with Todd showing his humorous side. Fans of inspirational and contemplative rock should definitely check out Brother Todd's "Oneman."

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Brother Todd 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present David Cahalan with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Dedicated"

With the fittingly titled "Dedicated," David Cahalan pays tribute to the music of The Carpenters, for whom he is a former background singer. He modernizes each tune with his melodic, individual style, breathing new life into the original while making it his own. He opens the set with the familiar "Hurting Each Other," updating the standard tune with his modern style of pop. He gives the classic "Close To You" a contemporary flair with a bright, bouncing groove, and smooth lead and background vocals. His version of "For All We Know" is a touching ballad, featuring soulful vocals by Cahalan and a shimmering soprano sax melody. His rendition of "Superstar" features a great horn section and a brilliant string arrangement. "Bless the Beasts and the Children" is a wonderful duet, with Cahalan and his female counterpart in fine form. With "Dedicated," David Cahalan pays a suitable and proper tribute to truly great songs that were sung by Karen Carpenter. This is surely an album that all Carpenters' fans will appreciate.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out David Cahalan 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Alan Bernhoft with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Beatlesque One"

Alan Bernhoft has captured the style and feel of the legendary British pop band "The Beatles" with his appropriately titled album "Beatlesque One." His approach is remarkably reminiscent of the early Beatles style while at the same time fresh and original, paying homage to the group but spinning the music is his own creative and unique way. He portrays the atmosphere of the 1960s immediately and effectively on this album with "Keep Your Hands Off My Baby," a stunning opener that perfectly encapsulates the sound of the era that fused British pop with American rock-n-roll. The songs are well-written and skillfully produced, with clever arrangements and spirited musical performances. Listen to his stylish and accurate vocals on the lively and cheerful "Playdate," and his almost eerie resemblance to the lighthearted side of Paul McCartney on "Sunshine Girl" and "Someday ('08 Mix)." Another highlight is "Winter Ocean Mary Go Round ('08 Mix)," which is symbolic of the style of John Lennon. Bernhoft's introspective writing displays a truly uncanny resemblance to many aspects of The Beatles music, capturing their essence in both spirit and sound. Fans of The Monkees, The Beatles, and 60's rock will find "Beatlesque One" incredibly appealing.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Alan Bernhoft 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Simavi with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Memories Of You"

"Memories Of You" is a noteworthy release by the male vocalist known as Simavi. Simavi gives us a look at the past and into the future, putting his spin on both the classic and contemporary. He breathes freshness into jazz standards, keeping the beauty and integrity of the original, yet making them his own by infusing his style, personality, and flair into each track. Simavi also self-produced the album, further highlighting his personal stamp on this collection. From the lush string arrangements of "Moonlight in Vermont" and "Love Looks So Well On You" to the swinging renditions of "The Way You Look Tonight" and "Fly Me To The Moon," Simavi is comfortable and at home in each setting. He is backed by an incredible orchestra of talented musicians featuring brilliant soloists, swinging horn sections, and well-crafted arrangements. His versatility is also on full display as he moves seamlessly through the Brazilian number "The Girl From Ipanema" and the more contemporary style of "To the Ends of the Earth." He also adds his sincere, heartfelt vocal style to the touching ballads "I Wish You Love" and "Memories of You." Simavi's "Memories Of You" will be enjoyed by fans of adult contemporary male vocalists and/or big band music.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Simavi 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present 2nd chance with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Lord Hear My Prayer"

"Lord Hear My Prayer" is the debut two-song EP from Christian hip-hop artist Second Chance. Second Chance's story is one of overcoming all odds, coming close to dying over and again, repeatedly surviving, and finding God. These two songs showcase the new life, the "Second Chance", of a former gang member. Through clean, original, and well-delivered hip-hop vocals, Second Chance delivers inspirational and encouraging songs of love, of others, of yourself, and of God. The recording quality of "Lord Hear My Prayer" is great, adhering to the full potential of the great hip-hop arrangements and lyrics. The title track, "Lord Hear My Prayer" has a smooth r&b opening then moves into a great hip-hop arrangement with intimate lyrics between Second Chance and God, also featuring the smooth and soulful backing vocals of Brenton Wood. "There's Something About Your Love" has a funky arrangement with a nice beat, with another inspiring vocal from Second Chance and great synthesized backing vocals from Rufas Troutman. This two-song EP is a great introduction to Second Chance and leaves the listener in eager anticipation for more. Fans of hip-hop with largely Christian-oriented positive messages, give Second Chance a shot.

-Chris and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out 2nd chance 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present NAIMA with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Uno"

"Uno" is the inspiring new release from the European contemporary jazz unit Naima. The group uses an abundant array of musical elements and styles for their exploration and improvisation, drawing from many different influences and sources. The musicians establish a picture with each tune, which is then designed and shaped by the interaction between the different instruments and nurtured to completion. A good example of this is the opening track "Bicho," where the theme is first established by the piano and then developed by the other instruments. Listen to the fantastic interplay between the piano, soprano sax, and drums on the fiery "Totem." "Ana" is a quieter, gentler track, possessing expressive melodies and a more delicate, understated interaction between the musicians. "Alas Cortadas" is also a tender piece, but has a definitive pulse and groove. "Sicalipsis" is another example of the fine interplay between the musicians, weaving their own musical comments throughout the tune while still complementing each other and staying within the given framework of the music. This is an impressive album to be enjoyed by fans of improvisational and contemporary jazz reminiscent of the style of Wayne Shorter.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out NAIMA 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present MARK II with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Mark II"

"Mark II" by Contemporary Christian Rock band Mark II (Mark Wright) is an impressive high-energy release featuring well-crafted songs with spiritual, compassionate messages. The message in each track is delivered through Wright's thought provoking lyrics and spirited vocal performances. Wright is backed by a group of talented musicians that provide excellent support and brilliant background vocals throughout. This album rocks hard with the foot-stomping opener "About a Savior," and continues with such melodic tracks as "Come Follow Me" and "Promises" that feature catchy guitar riffs and memorable choruses. Also noteworthy are the moving ballads such as the uplifting "I Believe" and the heartening "In Your Hands," where Wright's vocal abilities are on full display. The energetic "Miracle" is a fitting closer, as Wright hopes to touch lives as he conveys his positive, encouraging message through his music. Fans of Contemporary Christian Rock should definitely give "Mark II" a listen.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out MARK II 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Every Smith Ever with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Every Smith Ever "

"Every Smith Ever" is the self-titled release from the group composed of vocalist/guitarist Chris Moulton and the beatmaker/producer known as Elsworth. This duo delves into many styles and textures with their highly experimental blend of soul, rock and hip hop. "I Would and We Did" is a strong opener, playing to the strengths of each member of the duo. Moulton's vocals soar and are delivered with emotion. The inventive programming of Elsworth is also on full display with an intricate, shuffling groove providing the pulse. "Kansas" is a raw, funky track with a heavy backbeat over densely layered vocals and a sparse piano motif. "What!" and "Scaring Grampy" feature a hypnotic, slow groove coupled with daunting, melodic vocals. "The Ballad of Dead Young Men" is a stylish, melodic track that features march-like sections and well-delivered vocal harmonies. The unnerving "Confession Breath" is of a more experimental nature, with Elsworth bending pitches and a chilling vocal performance by Moulton. The self-titled "Every Smith Ever" delivers soul, rock, and hip hop with an experimental character, spanning the range of moods, textures, and feels of their sound.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Every Smith Ever 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Lauren Frost with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Words For The Birds"

Singer/songwriter Lauren Frost has created a fine collection of memorable pop songs with "Words For The Birds," an outstanding set featuring skillful musicianship, clean production and most notably, her soulful vocals. "Wait & See," "Take It Slow" and "Hello Lovely" are all great examples of her polished and refined sound, intelligent writing, and soaring vocal ablilities. The supporting cast of musicians is very talented, providing exceptional solos and support throughout. Listen to the funky swagger of "Heavy In Your Shoes" and the melodic pop of "Sangria Tale," where Frost's infectious personality really shines through. Another highlight is "Little Boy," which features a percussive groove and showcases Frost's ability to blend harmony and melody so beautifully. The remix version of this track will have you ready for the dance club. "Cheezits" offers a look into Frost's humorous side, and she gives a witty, entertaining performance by once again injecting her personality and style into the track. The album also includes the tender moments of "Whatever Happens" and "Drop Off My Heart" which are expressive, soulful ballads that showcase Frost's immense vocal range. This is an impressive release from a very talented singer/songwriter that is highly recommended for fans of female vocalists and melodic pop.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Lauren Frost's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Marco Catracchia with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Diary of a Recluse (And Other Short Stories)"

Marco Catracchia has created a touching collection of modern folk songs with "Diary of a Recluse (And Other Short Stories)." This is a heartwarming and uplifting set, characterized by Catracchia's heartfelt lyrics, personal vocal style and intellectual songwriting. His style includes instantly memorable melodies, coupled with his skillful acoustic and electric guitar tracks. "Before You Hit the Ground" is a strong opener, showcasing his poetic lyrics and honest, sincere vocal abilities. "Sweet Angel" is a wonderful duet featuring female vocalist Megan Mount and is ready for immediate airplay. "For You (Until the End)" and "They Forgot Your Name" are further examples of his skillful writing and lyrical candor, while he varies the musical textures and personal themes without losing his identity. "Learn to Live" features soaring vocal harmonies and melodies cleverly layered to provide amazing depth and beauty to the track. Marco Catracchia has created his own style of modern folk and alternative country with "Diary of a Recluse (And Other Short Stories)," which is sure to appeal to fans of male vocalists in either genre.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Marco Catracchia's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

Sunday, February 8, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present Cassandra Tribe with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Angel"

"Angel" by Cassandra Tribe is a deep and intellectual spoken word EP that is filled with precise imagery and a tone that is tense and revealing. It is not just Cassandra's words that create the journey; it is her delivery, pacing, and tranquil voice that really rounds out the concept. She plays on silence in a way that keeps you longing for the next line and hanging on every word. This is Cassandra's third CD and the concept of this album is a stripped down work of art. You hear nothing but her voice on this one, a bold statement considering music and effects were a big part of her previous releases. There is a build as the journey unfolds when the album opens with the whispery "The Dark Flower of Hope (Part 1)," a reflection of wasted life. "Monster" deals with more irresponsibility, this time in the area of false gods. "The Dreams of Bees" brings forth tremendous power and intensity as Cassandra brings forth the most vivid of frustrations. If you enjoy rich, well performed poetry, you will enjoy "Angel."

-William
Check out Cassandra Tribe's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Richard Bowden with Moon & the Starz with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Richard Bowden with Moon & the Starz "

"Richard Bowden with Moon & The Starz" is an impressive self-titled release showcasing a flexible and talented group with a refined sound that blends both traditional and contemporary styles of country music with blues and rock-n-roll. Their sound is characterized by outstanding lead and harmony vocals coupled with Bowden's tasteful B-bending guitar licks. The many styles presented on this album are performed with skill and authenticity… with well-crafted writing, spirited musical performances, and clever arrangements. The production is clean and professional, providing a product that is ready for mainstream radio. From the festive, island flavor of "Reynosa Rose" to the bluesy "All For The Price Of One Love," each song shines in its own exclusive and distinct way. Listen to the witty and humorous "Please Come To New Boston" and the polished shuffle groove of "Battle Of Losers." This album features many fine performances from great singers and musicians, and will appeal to fans of many genres of music including both traditional and contemporary styles of country music, rock, and blues.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Richard Bowden with Moon & the Starz 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Miguel Rodrigues with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Micro Talk"

"Micro Talk" by Miguel Rodrigues is an innovative electronica and house album that is full of funky riffs and soulfully energetic beats. Rodrigues without a doubt has a style all his own, composed of electronica, house, dance, funk, and jazz, and this album puts that style on full display. The listener will certainly experience a sort of serenity while listening to "Micro Talk," as he takes listeners on a journey filled with layer upon layer of beautiful sounds mixed with warm, but active, grooves and beats. The sequences are all very tight and the production is of very high quality. "Blue Ball" kicks things off, and to say it is funky would be a tremendous understatement. It's an excellent introduction track that gives the full taste of the style of tracks to come. "Mr. G" pulls things back a bit and gives you more of a deep house vibe while still maintaining Rodrigues' style. The title track "Micro Talk" wraps things up and features some clever horn work and a bit of sex appeal. Those that enjoy discovering unique electronica artists with a multitude of influences will love "Micro Talk" and should waste no time in picking this one up.

-William & the RadioIndy Review Team
Check out Miguel Rodrigues 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Rusty Rierson with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Till The Fat Lady Sings"

"Till The Fat Lady Sings" is a high energy country-pop album brought to you by Kansas' own Rusty Rierson. Randy has all the elements in place with great melodies, harmonies, arrangements and performances. Rusty's voice leads the pack with conviction and his song writing ability is superior. Everything seems to fall into place and the result for the listener is a compilation that will spin in your player for years to come. Highlights are the title track "Till The Fat Lady Sings" and "Will You Be My Girl." It is no doubt the title track features a solid arrangement, catchy lyrics and some fantastic harmony in the backing vocals. "Will You Be My Girl" slows things down a bit with a beautiful piano progression. It then evolves into a powerful, heartfelt ballad led by a soulful vocal performance. "My Island & Me" has a great carefree quality to it as it cleverly borders on island music in the arrangement. Fans of country-pop music should definitely pick up "Till The Fat Lady Sings."

-William & the RadioIndy Review Team
Check out Rusty Rierson 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Mirrico with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Grown Woman's Business"

"Grown Woman's Business" is the debut album from female hip hop/ R&B artist Mirrico. The first thing listeners will notice about Mirrico is the sheer power in her vocal delivery. Her lyrical content is hard and she doesn't back down in any way whatsoever. In other words, this album is intense and features street credibility that you don't often see from a female hip hop artist. The sequences behind her voice compliment nicely. Her sound features classic hip hop elements mixed with a little techno and gangsta rap. It's a great combination that will, without a doubt, get the blood pumping. The production value is also very good and these songs are radio ready. Highlights are "The Way It Is," which has a sneaky intro that makes way into a great hook and powerful vocal performance that pushes the words into your ears and out of your mouth, and "Alligators." "Alligators" has a huge beat, big sound, and is headed straight for the clubs. Be sure to check out the remix as well. "Dip It Low" exudes sexuality with a nice groove and seductively blunt lyrics. If you enjoy talented, controversial hip hop, be sure to check out "Grown Woman's Business."

-William & the RadioIndy Review Team
Check out Mirrico 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Paul Vincent Gandolfi with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Lifesketch"

"Lifesketch," by Paul Vincent Gandolfi is a moving, extremely polished pop/rock release showcasing the many talents of this gifted singer-songwriter. It is apparent from just one listen that Gandolfi's intent and focus is on crafting well-written songs with wonderful harmonies, enjoyable melodies and clever arrangements. The personal, heartfelt lyrics in each composition hold significance and meaning. The vocals are a highlight of this release, with Gandolfi delivering strong lead vocals throughout, supported by tasteful harmonies. "Beautiful Misery" opens the album beautifully, with acoustic guitar and soaring vocal harmonies emphasizing the strong hook and melody of the song. "Endangered Heart" features an enchanting piano intro coupled with a mysterious, sincere vocal from Gandolfi. The production is transparent and clean, providing a product that is ready for mainstream radio. "Stranger Than Fiction" is a catchy, memorable song with interesting rhythmic changes. "The Poet & The Muse" is a deep, affectionate track with lyrical guitar lines and another passionate vocal from Gandolfi, again supported wonderfully by the background vocals. This album will appeal to the fans of pop/rock that enjoy simplistic instrumentation, meaningful lyrics and genuine, sincere vocals in the vein of John Mayer and Jack Johnson.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Paul Vincent Gandolfi 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Dola with a GrIndie Award for the CD "New Beginning... About Time"

"New Beginning... About Time" is a well-crafted contemporary gospel album brought to you by the talented singer Dola. Her vocal style can be described as operatic with hints of traditional African. The sounds skillfully arranged behind her are a combination of gospel, R&B, and jazz. The entire package makes for a truly unique experience and a very full and complete sound. There are many layers in each song, and everything seems to fall right into place. The album also sounds great and is ready for the radio. The album opener "New Song" kicks things off with a bang, introducing the full spectrum of the sound. The title track "New Beginning" features a wicked guitar intro and reels you right in with catchy lyrics and a powerful message. "Baba Ogo Ye O" hits you with a very accomplished jazz arrangement, then breaks down to allow a soft and sultry vocal performance by Dola. If you enjoy well-crafted gospel albums that fuse styles headed by diva quality vocals, you will certainly enjoy "New Beginning… About Time."

-William & the RadioIndy Review Team
Check out Dola 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Paul Vincent Gandolfi with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Stir The Menagerie"

"Stir The Menagerie" by Paul Vincent Gandolfi is a well-written, well-performed indie pop album that highlights the sheer talent of the fantastic singer/songwriter. Paul has been to many places in his musical journey, including bands, musicals, and film scores. What comes from this effort is an intimate taste of great vocal performances, thought provoking lyrics, and fine arrangements. The album sounds fantastic, with vocals at the forefront, as Gandolfi has a very distinct voice that is, in turn, complimented well by the arrangements. One highlight is "Bleed," which opens with a gentle melody and evolves into an ear grabbing lyrical performance. You'll remember the words to this one in no time. "Show Me" is another standout that features a delicate piano progression and gives listeners an intimate look at Paul. A cover of Leonard Cohen's "Hallelujah" wraps things up and is the powerful finish to a powerful album. If you enjoy indie/pop/rock music, you will not be disappointed with "Stir the Menagerie."

-William & the RadioIndy Review Team
Check out Paul Vincent Gandolfi 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Rui Caetano Trio with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Reflexos"

"Reflexos" is the first recording from Portuguese pianist Rui Caetano and his trio, featuring Bernardo Moreira on bass and Marco Franco on drums. The album is a collection of original compositions inspired by Caetano's life experiences. Although the setting for these sessions consists of a piano trio, this is far from a traditional piano trio jazz album. The compositions are very inventive and performed in a loose, free, interactive manner by the musicians. This trio has created a flowing, highly-original sound that is not easily categorized. "Sons Reflexos" begins in a dark, shadowy manner with each musician coloring in a sparse style before fusing together into an interactive, melodic tune. "Luisa" is a soft, delicate ballad featuring an eloquent approach from Caetano, with Franco providing subtle, fitting support underneath with swishing brushes and sizzling, swirling cymbals. The broken swing of "Casa Vertical" and "Dança do Cavalo Marinho" provides an audio landscape for the musicians to be extremely interactive, floating and weaving throughout the compositions as if they were painting scenery. "O Tempo Foi" is another ballad, displaying again the gentle, expressive side of Caetano. "Oceano" is a spirited closing track, with the musicians again interacting brilliantly, showcasing their creative ability to take liberties within the tune while still functioning as one interconnected unit. This album will appeal to the jazz fan, particularly those who enjoy the piano trio performing in a non-traditional, loose and free style.

-Rodney and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Rui Caetano Trio 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Chuck Eaton with a GrIndie Award for the CD "One Million Words"

"One Million Words" is the excellent easy listening debut thirty years in the making from Brazilian artist Chuck Eaton. This album's theme is love, as Eaton sings twelve original and romantic songs of love and passion, mood-setters written for lovers to listen to together. The entire album is written and performed by Eaton, which includes vocals and piano, guitar, and drum arrangements. These arrangements are solid with well-crafted piano work and terrific guitar solos, and show Eaton's skill in musical layering. Eaton's vocals are unique, sounding like a combination of an easy listening version of Paolo Nutini with traces of solo John Lennon. "One Million Words" is well-produced, and the entire album sounds clean and professional. "Wedding Rings" begins with a nice piano, drum, and guitar arrangement, then moves into a song about falling in love and begging for forgiveness. "Our Love Is Precious" starts with a great electric guitar solo over acoustic guitar and drums, and features more catchy and heartfelt lyrics about falling in love. Overall, "One Million Words" is a great love-themed album well worth the wait. Anyone who enjoys poppy, easy listening songs about love should check out "One Million Words."

-Chris & the RadioIndy.com Review Team
Check out Chuck Eaton 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites