RadioIndy Grindie Awards

Sunday, January 17, 2010

RadioIndy is pleased to present Kass Kass with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Kass Kass & Kass Tout "

The charismatic and well orchestrated African Rhumba music of "Kass Kass & Kass Tout" is artistic dance music created by an innovating group named Kass Kass. This CD is a compilation of two previous albums ingeniously re-mastered and presented as one. This genre of music, Soukous, is a combination of fusing traditional African music with Caribbean flavor. Presenting wonderful lead vocals complemented by delightful harmonies, the song "Kass Kass" is uplifting with its bright and cheery melody and lively percussion. Syncopated rhythms and effervescent guitar riffs keep the vibrant and energetic song "Ba Boutons Rouges" moving along with a solid, danceable tonality. Dazzling horn riffs embellish the memorable vocals and vibrant rhythms on "Mounga Nga" and "Yoyoe." You won't want to miss the catchy melodies and bouncy beats on the delicious and charming album, "Kass Kass & Kass Tout."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Claude Werner Quartet with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Thoughts and Recollections "

You will be mesmerized by the stunning and expressive Jazz compositions on the new CD, "Thoughts and Recollections," by the Claude Werner Quartet. Werner, a brilliant tenor saxophonist, performs with rich and emotive sensitivity. Feel his dynamics rise and gently recede on haunting & evocative melodies of pure artistry. Werner's fellow musicians are well-focused and, in their togetherness, reveal a true chemistry as they perform with tight, well-rehearsed precision. Breathing with an airy ambiance of smooth and silky vibes, "Good Ol' Days" invites reflections of memories of times past. The counterpoint of the bass embellishes the mood of "Day Dreaming," as Werner's sax displays a polished and charming tonality. Jazz improvisation is at its best when you hear the delectable song, "Conversations with D," with its smooth and precise dexterity. Relax and enjoy listening to the fabulous, warm and inviting jazz songs on Claude Werner Quartet's fine CD, "Thoughts and Recollections."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Claude Werner Quartet 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present The Elisabeth Waldo Ensemble with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Land of Golden Dreams "

Elisabeth Waldo's exquisite CD, "Land of Golden Dreams," is a diverse collection of world cultures beautifully embellished with instrumental sound textures. Waldo, a talented composer and violinist, has taken her explorations of world cultures and deftly created a relaxed and well orchestrated production of contemporary classical music. Feel the calm ocean waves gently roll onto the shore as the birds call from high above "On a Mystic Island." Listen as the popping firecrackers light up the music on the processional song "Mr. Chinatown L.A." while march-like drums keep a bold and strong rhythm. Bright and crisp horns of "Vaqueros at the Roundup" decorate the vibrant and captivating melody while the castanets capture energetic beats. Your senses will be awakened by the delightful CD, "Land of Golden Dreams," as it is sure to please listeners who love to hear dreamscape sounds, vocal chants, and the soothing ambiance of unusual and striking instruments.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out The Elisabeth Waldo Ensemble 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Pixilated Theory with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Top Secret "

Step into a dominion of artistic Experimental synth Pop/Rock music as Pixilated Theory's imagination runs wild on their recent album, "Top Secret." Pixilated Theory, which is comprised of two outstanding musicians, Jonathan Hall and Michael Hall, powers this fourteen track album with sometimes strange and mystifying tonality. Even as you browse through the song titles, each one produces images of space age mystery. Setting the tone for the album, "SETI Communication" stirs eerie visions as a synthesized, child- like voice penetrates deftly over the chilling sound effects. The cryptic poetry on "White Walls" easily spins around the creepy synth sounds. Displaying a softer pop style, "Angel of this World" is sweet and tender with thoughtful vocals and lyrics. If you're a fan of the groups Depeche Mode or Pet Shop Boys, you will surely want to hear the inventive mixture of experimental music on the CD, "Top Secret."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Joe Colledge with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Out of the Blue "

An excellent blend of Alternative Rock and light Pop awaits you as Joe Colledge releases his second album, "Out of the Blue." The energy and enthusiasm on this album is refreshing and renders the listener wanting to hear more of these enjoyable, melodic songs. Colledge and his talented group of musicians prove their abilities to be focused artists with a well rehearsed dynamic balance. The soft rock single, "Rock Song" moves with a solid, easy flowing beat, vocals that are crisp and clean, and smooth, bouncy guitar progressions. Showcasing some great harmonies, "Story of My Life," is a wonderful ballad where vocals are sung with sweet sincerity. Originally recorded by Three Dog Night, "Shambala" is a terrific rendition as this group puts their own magical spin to it and yet it keeps its original tonality. If you're a fan of the groups Gin Blossoms or Counting Crows, then don't miss a chance to hear the delectable songs of "Out of the Blue."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Dizrhythmia with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Recipes For Modern Life "

"Recipes for Modern Life" by New Zealand band Dizrhythmia is a psychedelic funk CD with a feel of Folk and a little bit of Country. All of the tracks utilize acoustic guitars put with trance-like lead vocals reminiscent of Woodstock singers of the classic sixties. On the track "Song for Nikki," harmony is employed with a violin which brings a really classy and truly sentimental element to the CD which is furthered by the articulate lyrics. The track of which the title was based, "A Recipe for Modern Life," is a "feel good" track that incorporates a fluid-sounding trumpet with the steady high hat and snare drum tempo that takes the listener for a walk on an easier side of life. "Burlington Street" is a groovy track that will get the listener moving to the catchy lyrics and sharp rhythm. All around, this album is excellent for those who enjoy easy listening music with good instrumentation and meaningful lyrics.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Evolve IV with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Decadent Light "

"Decadent Light" by Evolve iv is a deep, hard-hitting progressive/alternative rock CD. This album doesn't hold back the talent of the guitarists at all. The riffs and chords of the guitars and bass, combined with the laid back but heavy lead vocals, mixed with the cool drum tempos, show musicianship working at its best. The CD covers a range of musical influences from various genres, but fully maintains the essence of solid progressive rock. "Listen Up" will have the listener nodding their head as they mentally try to follow the tricky, melodic guitar and catchy lyrics. Track 7, "Must Have Been The Future" displays the versatility of the lead vocals by having a slight country "twang" blended with hard rock. Among the other tracks, "Voyager" and "Write" are plain examples of the pure talent that this band has. The tracks on this CD can and will have fans of Nirvana, Skynyrd, as well as Coldplay fully satisfied.

-Trent C. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Evolve IV 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Robert Valente with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Alive "

Robert Valente gives the listener another great album of melodic and interesting Folk/Country music with his latest CD, "Alive." This eleven track album contains thought provoking lyrics that are lyrical and expressive and are well balanced with a focused blend of instruments. Valente's vocals are straight up and sung from the heart. The opening track, "Gospel Man," instills sincere lyrics topped off with warm, sweet harmonies. The colorful country influence on "The Answer" moves with sweet and gentle motion while the vocals emit a soft and mellow air. The soothing acoustic guitar complements the peaceful vocals on the insightful song "In Your Mind." You'll feel happy and pleased as you listen to the inviting Folk/Country music on the album "Alive."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present The Shaun Murphy Band with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Livin' the Blues "

Highly accomplished vocalist and by far no stranger to the music scene, Shaun Murphy releases her instinctive, powerhouse of fabulous Blues on the CD, "Livin' The Blues." Murphy's vocals reach deep down inside capturing the true essence of these soulful and emotive Blues compositions. The passionate and burning vocals on "It Takes A Lot To Laugh, It Takes A Train To Cry" fuel the emotive lyrics with a rich and fervent style and grace. Not only does the title track, "Livin' The Blues" move with a strong, tight beat, the vocals are well balanced and supported by a solid cast of musicians. Power chords and building beats give "Rock And Roll Everynight" a vibrant and energetic vibe while Murphy takes the helm with her tough, vocal attitude. Make no mistake; "Livin' The Blues" packs a powerful punch of deep and soulful Blues steeped with Murphy's vocals as formidable and commanding as the great singers Etta James or Koko Taylor.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out The Shaun Murphy Band 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Manny Freiser with a GrIndie Award for the CD "HISTORY "

Highly accomplished and talented musician Manny Freiser impresses with a hue of energy and enthusiasm on his latest released album, "HISTORY." Freiser not only wrote these well written lyrics but he performs with excellent musicianship, terrific vocals, and offers up some first rate production. These artistic arrangements focus on thought provoking soft ballads to vibrant and upbeat Alternative Pop/Rock. "Rain" has solid and steady drums and piano chord hits that interact with the strong and expressive vocals. Let the emotive lyrics on the ballad "One Love" embrace memories of love as the soft and subtle strings mingle with the sweet, melodic vocals. Feel the dynamic rhythmic drum pulses on "Body Rock" as it will have you on your feet and dancing to the beat. The wonderful blend of Alternative Pop/Rock music on "HISTORY" is infused with memorable lyrics, engaging beats, and is well worth listening to.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Blackbirds with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Endlines and Punchrhymes "

"Endlines and Punchrhymes" is the latest release by the talented, Modern Folk group Blackbirds. Right from the start this album will take you to a place where you can relax and enjoy the emotive lyrics and soft percussive beats. Lead vocals are rich and pure as you can hear on songs such as "This Street, That Man" and "Can't Find My Way Home." Heartfelt lyrics reflect memories of times past on the song "Hometown Heroes" while acoustic guitar gently swirls around this interesting melody. As an added bonus, check out the terrific remakes of "The Mighty Quinn" (original by Manfred Mann) and "Cinnamon Girl" (original by Neil Young) as these songs offer a great nostalgic throwback. Superb production as the instruments come across clean and crisp and never overpowers the laid-back vocals. If you're a fan of Folk music, then take a ride and listen to the wonderful compilations of the terrific album, "Endlines and Punchrhymes."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Matthew with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Color My Soul "

Keyboardist and composer Matthew's 2nd CD, "Color My Soul," continues his Easy Listening / Contemporary Jazz explorations over the course of 10 songs as soothing as they are satisfying. On his new album, Matthew offers up a mix of original piano-led instrumental tunes that hover in the New Age / Adult Contemporary realms, but shakes things up a little with a couple nice vocal tracks ("My Child" and "Letting Go") from a fine r&b-oriented female vocalist, and a sax-led slice of loungiana ("Saxuality") that brings just the right touch of after-hours ambience. "After the Rain," with its very pretty acoustic guitar accompaniment, and the title-track, "Color My Soul," capture the essence of Matthew's composition and performing strengths, delivering lilting and memorable melodies to complement whatever you're doing, or simply to help you relax and enjoy a fine glass of wine with a friend or lover. In all, Matthew's fine "Color My Soul" CD is a beautiful and relaxing musical soundscape for fans of Adult Contemporary and Contemporary Jazz music.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Movin Melvin Brown with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Just A Little Country "

The considerable strengths of Movin' Melvin Brown's "Just a Little Country" CD, are due as much to the legacies of soul legends like Clarence Carter and Solomon Burke, as to the country artists and songs that ostensibly inspired this album. Indeed, Brown's Country has little to do with contemporary Nashville sounds, but instead is informed with the deep soul stylings of Soul music forebears and genre-crossing '70's-era performers like Tom T. Hall and Don Williams. Reaching back 20-some years for a fine cover of The Judds' "Love Can Build a Bridge," or even further for his excellent rendering of Buck Owens' "Together Again," Movin' Melvin shows what he can do with a standard. But his originals, like "I'm Gonna Love You" and "A World Made of Love," have equal authenticity, but far more soulfulness. Other standouts include the terrific "Strawberry Wine" and the very-Arthur Alexander-like "Give Me Time." The multi-talented Movin' Melvin Brown is definitely a musical throw-back; eschewing over-the-top production values for honest, stripped-down arrangements that put the song front and center, "Just a Little Country" is a great CD for old school southern soul-meets-country fans.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Movin Melvin Brown 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Media Line Road with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Sagittarius Passing Through "

RadioIndy is pleased to present Media Line Road with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Sagittarius Passing Through"

Media Line Road mix '60's and '70's-era pop-rock sensibilities with kaleidoscopic flair on their fine new CD, "Sagittarius Passing Through." Recalling classic rock bands such as Pink Floyd ("We're Not From Here"), The Doors ("I've Been Trying"), Moody Blues ("Fly"), and especially, the solo work of George Harrison, the 14-track collection features the kind of echo-y psychedelic effects that defined a lost era of Rock. CD-opener, "Old Belle's Bop," a tremolo-laden pop song with tasty slide licks, boasts more than a hint of George Harrison-like Top 40 charm, while "It's Kinda Creepy Baby" sounds like a demented carnival nightmare (check out the backward guitar overdubs). Re-visiting the Harrison reference, "Prayer" is a spiritual ballad with some excellent interplay between slide and mandolin, and "Good To Have You Back Again" exudes the polished pop of Harrison's work with Jeff Lynne. All told, Media Line Road's "Sagittarius Passing Through" CD is a potent and winning blend of classic and psychedelic rock influences that touches all the right bases.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer team
Check out Media Line Road 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Dead Fox with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Dead Fox "

The charming, self titled CD, "Dead Fox," is the first, full length acoustic album by singer/songwriter Cynthia Brando. Confidently alternating a mixture of styles, such as country, blues, and folk, Brando projects her voice with a relaxing and ambient quality. Her well written lyrics speak of strong emotions with lyrical charisma. Simple and free flowing, "This Love," is lovely with its folksy guitar accompaniment. A touch of country flavor comes to mind when hearing the delightful tune, "Driven By Angels." The Bluesy blend of the strong and powerful vocals shines on the song, "What a Beautiful Dream" as this catchy melody will have your toes tapping to the passionate beat. A distinctive treasure of songs, "Dead Fox," is filled with generous helpings of acoustic Folk material and is well worth listening to.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Syntithenai with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Equilibrio Sbilanciato "

Listen up to the intriguing experimental electronic sounds of "Equilibrio Sbilanciato" by the quite fascinating composer Syntithenai. These inventive arrangements stimulate an air of artistic visions of well produced sounds blended with moving, percussive beats. With an ambiance of industrial tonality, "Deceiving Train" is enhanced with brilliant and soothing synth sounds that bond with the rhythmic percussion. The title track, "Equilibrio Sbilanciato" could easily be heard at a club as there is a soft and gentle arpeggio and subtle synth string swells. Space like and mysterious, "Uomo2009" is imaginative with industrial pulses and sound textures. Syntithenai has compiled a terrific set of compositions that is orchestrated with precise precision. If you like new and captivating electronic music, then "Equilibrio Sbilanciato" is just the album you'll want to hear.

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

Sunday, November 22, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present T.A.O. (The Anointed Ones) with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Journey to the Top Begins "

T.A.O. (The Anointed Ones) charms the musical world with the delightfully smooth Jazz/Gospel album "Journey to the Top Begins." Using the flute as the main instrument, Richard D. Hegens, Jr. skillfully compiles a collection of easy listening pieces with polished maturity and grace. His talent shines on songs such as "Keeping It Real" or "Ballad," as he gives the audience a performance that captures the emotional spirit his music reveals. His refined flute talents stir up keen interest as he leads off the album with a not-so-traditional rendition of "Amazing Grace" which conjures a slightly livelier tempo and strong and solid beat. Although most of this album is instrumental, "Safe in His Arms" and "When I Think About the Lord" present beautiful female vocals as sweet and harmonious as the lyrics they sing. Jazz flavor at its best, "Otulp" highlights striking piano, soft brushes, and the melodious sounds of the flute. Sounds of stunning flute blended with engaging smooth Jazz/Gospel will lift your spirits and soothe your soul when you hear the wonderful songs of T.A.O.'s "Journey to the Top Begins."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out T.A.O. (The Anointed Ones)'s music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present J-double-R with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Hip-Hop Rebirth "

The solo debut album by J-double-R, "Hip-Hop Rebirth," is one collection of genuine hip-hop tunes that exudes intelligence and current-day relevance. Powerful beats fused with poetic, politically potent lyrics provides a perfect platform for J-double-R's pure talent to manifest itself. Opening with the gripping title track, listeners are immediately introduced to J-double-R's raw and hard-hitting rap style. "Changes (feat. kissroyale)" is a lovely collaboration focusing on the remarkable change and progression symbolized by the election of Obama as president, and displays unforgettable musical hooks. The slower-paced tune dubbed "Inner Thoughts" stands out as an exceptionally well-written and representative of J-double-R's sheer creative intelligence. Topped off with seasoned production, fans of honest, genuine, and prudent hip-hop will thoroughly enjoy this CD.

-Xavier and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out J-double-R's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present IYAM with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Better Than Ever "

Released for '09, IYAM's "Better Than Ever" CD, a collection of Classic Rock with Heavy Metal theatrics, sounds as fresh and relevant as ever. Since the likes of Pink Floyd and Black Sabbath popularized grandiose, anthem like Hard Rock virtues back in the day, many other sub-genres of Rock have come and gone, but Hard Rock and Metal's appeal has never waned. IYAM prove themselves accomplished purveyors in their own right, displaying said virtues on an album that hits all the right marks: songs built on riffs of unstoppable force, slashing lead guitar work worthy of Randy Rhodes, well-crafted and exemplary lyrics that get to the heart of what Metal is all about; and a singer with the rage, fire, and immediacy to bring it all home. Highlights include "Witches And Warlocks," built on a thundering blues riff, CD-opener "All Is Well," a rocker with soaring hooks, and "Going Through The Motions," with its Gothic atmosphere. IYAM's "Better Than Ever" CD is, simply, well-executed and powerful classic hard rock.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Rodney Wayne King &The Nite Kitchen with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Another Dirty Deal"

Capturing the essence of Country and Blues, Rodney Wayne King's excellent CD, "Another Dirty Deal," instantly charms the listener with eleven well-crafted songs. The energetic opener, "Outlaw on the Run," will grab the listener's attention right from the start with its gruff and tough vocals, razor sharp guitar, and solid beat. Showing country blues at it best, "The Richest One," with its slow and steady tempo, has an easy-flowing piano accompaniment and stirs up some thoughtful lyrics with memorable and warm vocals. Down and dirty blues is what "Dealing With the Devil" is all about with guitar and harmonica riffs complementing the powerful, driving vocals. Country flavor abounds in "Dusty" with an outstanding steel guitar and also offers some great harmony on the chorus. The compilations on this disc confidently alternate a mixture of a good old vibrant and energetic country feeling to a slow and steady blues vibe, which gives this album a nice texture. Don't miss a chance to hear the talented treasures of country and blues on the Rodney Wayne King's great new release, "Another Dirty Deal."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Rodney Wayne King &The Nite Kitchen 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Red Directors with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Wave it In "

If you like pop/rock with bigger-than-life hooks and sing-along choruses that stick with you long after the last note has drifted off into the night then, Red Directors, delivers the goods on their latest CD, "Wave It In," a ten song collection of highly polished power pop gems. "After Sunday" kicks things off with its infectious, era-spanning sense of melody and drive. It's only one of several highlights though. "Been Around" and "Pretty Good Odds" demonstrate the band's ballads are no less formidable than their best rockers, despite such defining up tempo performances as "Naked in the Kitchen" and "Woken Eye." Elsewhere, they more than ably show they can cover that middle ground between rocker and ballad too, offering up the terrific "Spin" and the endearing "Amazing," each with the same post-Beatles flourish that infuses the entire CD. With such a solid multi-format, pop/rock approach to their sound the "Wave It In" CD by Red Directors is sure to please across generation lines, a tribute to their talent as well as their influences.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Red Directors 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Smoochy Smith with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Originals By Smoochy "

"Originals By Smoochy," by the highly talented rockabilly piano player Smoochy Smith, is a charming and energetic collection of piano driven blues/country tunes. The instrumentation presented by Smoochy Smith on this CD is nothing short of phenomenal. His keen sense for groovy piano blues leads infuse each of these tunes with unforgettable energy. Moreover, Smoochy Smith's skillful and heart-felt lyrics conjure visceral emotional responses. Highlights include the mid-tempo, soulful love ballad "Soul Mate of My Life." The danceable "Smoochy's Boogie" demonstrates why this CD receives such musical acclaim with its polished big-band sound. Additionally, the patriotic "Stand Up for America" deserves mention for its beautifully assembled vocal arrangements. Fans of passionate rockabilly will find countless evenings of listening pleasure with Smoochy Smith's "Originals By Smoochy."

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

Saturday, November 21, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present Lisa Hugo with a GrIndie Award for the CD "It's Time "

In the tradition of such venerable performers as Karen Carpenter and Eva Cassidy, Lisa Hugo straddles the boundaries of jazz and pop with equal ease and finesse on her fine new CD, "It's Time." With her supple, three octave vocal range and the instincts of a seasoned vet, the Australian born and world-traveled, pianist and singer/songwriter simply delights on this 11-song collection of pop, jazz, and easy listening songs. Backed by a small combo with exemplary taste and feel, Hugo's piano sets the tone on jazzier numbers like the CD opener, "With You I Can Be Me" and "Oh My Baby," while the subdued, "Please Try to Understand," finds Hugo delivering an emotion-laden confessional with only the leanest of guitar, bass, and sprinkling of cymbals. Although very comfortable and adept with the jazz-pop style, the real highlight of the set is "Butterfly," a wonderfully melodic pop tune as engaging as it is uplifting. Lisa Hugo's bio is one filled with musical accomplishment all across the globe, but her new CD stands on its own merits. Fans of adult-oriented, tuneful jazz-pop will thoroughly enjoy the perfect blend of polished and sophisticated easy listening music on "It's Time."

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Lisa Hugo 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Tunto with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Lempi "

Mixing jazz and world-infused explorations of melody and harmony with beats and soundscapes from the electronica school, Tunto's "Lempi" CD is a boldly inventive map into a musical world without borders. With titles that signify many moods such as, "Caressing Music," "Itch Music," or "Yearning Music," Tunto aspires to reveal his imagination is more than up to the task of translating and transposing, raw emotion into music form, a subjective aesthetic that demands no small amount of receptivity and reciprocation from his listeners. Tunto pulls it off quite effectively and this has much to do with the range of textures, vocals and instrumentals, he throws into the mix as well as the musical symbolism his melodies conjure. Tunto's provocative third CD, "Lempi," is an informed rendering of a brave new world of music's breadth and elasticity; an album for jazz, world music, and experimental electronica enthusiasts.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Robin Lee Sinclair with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Honky Tonk Heaven "

Robin Lee Sinclair may be Australian, but don't think he doesn't know a little something about American country music. Boasting 14 tracks abounding in country and country-rock smarts and know-how, Sinclair's CD, "Honky Tonk Heaven," is packed with tuneful and well executed songs showcasing his own and his band's, range and presence. The title track, "Honky Tonk Heaven," makes for a perfect CD-opener, with Sinclair's intense lead vocals soaring on a chorus that is both immediate and timeless. "Country Member" takes it uptown with a fine quick-step shuffle tailor-made for the dance floor, while "Remember Me" is moving and urgent, with shades of Elvis in Sinclair's dramatic reading. Other highlights include "Shannon," an up-tempo number with a splendid banjo backing, "Bouncin' Back," featuring a Jerry Lee Lewis-like piano-pounding-rhythm, and the boppin', 50's-inspired "And Then There Was You." Throughout, though, Robin Lee Sinclair proves himself a polished and seasoned vocalist on his effortlessly pleasing CD, "Honky Tonk Heaven."

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Robin Lee Sinclair 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy Grindie Awards - All Genres