RadioIndy Grindie Awards - All Genres: July 2009

Thursday, July 9, 2009

RadioIndy is pleased to present Kelly Newton-Wordsworth with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Gospel Gladness "

Award winning singer/songwriter, Kelly Newton-Wordsworth, releases another memorable disc, "Gospel Gladness." This album contains a beautiful blend of Christian-folk and a touch of rock music. The lyrics are uplifting and spiritual while they exhibit Newton-Wordsworth's commitment to her religious beliefs. The vocals are strong and sincere and project meaning behind each song. "My Lord Jesus" is pure and simple with stunning vocals and acoustic guitar. Taking a turn to the rock side, "Gethsemane" has a walking bass, guitar, and keys that give off an edgier feel. Your toes will be tapping and your hands will be clapping along to the catchy sing-along song "My God Is My Rock." She has created a terrific version of "Amazing Grace" with an upbeat rhythm and beautiful harmonies. If you need a little spiritual uplifting, take a listen to "Gospel Gladness" by Kelly Newton-Wordsworth, as it will surely comfort your body and soul.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Didge Extreme / David Blonski with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Into the Night - Music for the Road "

Didge Extreme / David Blonski, talented composer and recording artist, serves up another terrific album titled "Into the Night - Music for the Road," comprised of energetic grooves of electronica and fusion dance music. Blonski's use of the didgeridoo is not only amazingly creative, but the way he incorporates the unique sound of this instrument with synthesized sounds is incredible. The first track, "Twilight Begins," launches off this disc with vigorous beats and the haunting tones of the drone-like didgeridoo with a mysterious charm. Exotic flutes on "Cruise Control" are rich in flavor and reverberate with an ambiance that is lively and full of life. You will sense the Middle Eastern tonality of the percussive drums on "Desert Crossroads" as it takes listeners to what seems like an oasis in a hot desert. "Alien Highway" and "Area 51" are titles that describe exactly what these songs would bring to mind: supernatural and mysterious sound effects. Take a listen to Didge Extreme / David Blonski's album "Into the Night-Music for the Road," and you will journey through sounds of worldwide instruments with vibes that are invigorating and sure to please.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Didge Extreme / David Blonski's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present MC Comeczechmi with a GrIndie Award for the CD "The Cold War Continues"

If you're looking for some hip-hop/rap with a new comical twist, then the debut album "The Cold War Continues," by MC Comeczechmi, is just what you need. As a native of Russia and then moving to America as a child, MC Comeczechmi found the gift of music through rhymes. He has taken his rhymes and rhythms and compiled a collection of humorous tunes with bouncy, grooving beats. His wordplay is made of broken English, and it works, making the entertaining lyrics give this album a new spin on rap. Fast and furious are just two words describing the amusing tune "Get Raw (Drink, Drink)." Turn the tables of time and you're back in the Old Russian country with the song "Da Old Country" featuring the sound of the accordion. MC Comeczechmi's "The Cold War Continues" is a great album to hear, especially if you're in the mood for rap/hip-hop with fun beats and lyrics.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Silent Circus with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Different Worlds"

The pop/rock duo, Silent Circus, debuts their first album "Different Worlds." This pair is very reminiscent of blending two famous groups together, The Beatles and Eagles. The chemistry between these talented guys is unfaltering. They have composed lyrics with a calm, easy feeling balanced out by the easygoing instruments. Lead vocals are delightful and the harmonies complement them perfectly, as listeners will be able to hear on such songs as "I Believe" and "Hard to Be the One." There is an excellent guitar solo on "High Speed," while "Clouds" highlights a strong, melodic guitar, steeped with flowing riffs. Silent Circus' "Different Worlds" would be a great addition to anyone's easy listening album collection, especially for fans of The Beatles or Eagles.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Michael Behm with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Saving America "

Talented artist Michael Behm, no stranger to the music scene, has released his fifth album, titled "Saving America." A Canadian, Behm projects his insights about his neighbors that are south of the border through his music. This album offers up a collection of some power pop/rock tunes with creative lyrics and song titles. There is a hint of influences of band greats such as the Beatles on tracks "The Art Of Letting Go" and Danger Boy." Not only does Behm have strong and solid vocals, but he gives listeners a taste of his guitar abilities with clean-cut power chords on "Honesty." The ballad "Lincoln" presents another side to the range this album has, as the piano highlights a rock solid accompaniment. Look no further than "Saving America" by Michael Behm if you want to hear some fun and enjoyable pop/rock music.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Nelson Llompart with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Llegó Mi Hora "

Put on your dancing shoes and let the vibrant and upbeat salsa rhythms sweep you away on "Llegó Mi Hora." Solo artist, Nelson Llompart gives an outstanding performance with his suave and sophisticated vocals. The production quality is great, as the vocals are crisp and clean while the instruments enhance the melodic arrangements. "Enamorados Por Siempre" displays a horn section which gives this pulsating tune an added uplifting pizzazz. Feel the bouncy beats of the percussion on "Búscandote" as they play in rhythmic time. Let the syncopated rhythms on "Chica Bye Bye" groove from the top of your head to your tapping toes. Nelson Llompart's "Llegó Mi Hora" is a must-have addition for any aficionado of the bold and vibrant salsa rhythms.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Transit Only with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Let's Make a Truce "

Sit back and enjoy the relaxing ambiance of "Let's Make a Truce," Transit Only's latest release. This duo performs with laid back vocals complemented by guitar and piano. Feel the chemistry between these two musicians as they carry out dreamy, easy listening arrangements. Vocals are soft and tender, which blend with the heartfelt lyrics. "Parachute Boy" mingles the vocals and instruments with graceful style. "Bye, Bye Baby" moves up in tempo and has a nice strumming guitar, while the piano helps maintain the balance of this tune. If you are looking to hear some ideal mood music, then check out Transit Only's "Let's Make a Truce," especially for listeners who are a fan of John Mayer or Augustana.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Celeste with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Live at the Bluebird Cafe "

"Live at the Bluebird Cafe" is the latest release by Grammy nominee artist Celeste. Featured on this album is a wonderful collection of performances highlighting Celeste's vocal abilities with various styles and lyrics. This highly talented country/blues singer and songwriter kicks out vocals that are melodic, strong, and alluring. Her bluesy and bold lyrics on "I Can Change My Mind" will have all women nodding their heads in agreement. "Suddenly, We're All French" has witty and fun lyrics which Celeste delivers with easy flowing spoken wordplay. Sweet and tender, "Body and Soul" shows the diversity in style this delightful singer has to offer. Celeste's "Live at the Bluebird Café" is a great album to hear especially if you're looking for some new and refreshing country and blues.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present The Moon Whispers with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Pearl of Blood "

Cryptic poetry and dark images are the forte of The Moon Whispers as they release their latest album "Pearl of Blood." The fusion between folk music and despondent ambiance is quite interesting and adds to the uniqueness this album displays. Vocalist/guitarist Elisa Di Napoli has a deep, yet touch of sweetness to her voice. Her lyrics are strong and emotional, with each song having a story to tell. This quality enhances the range of music that is reminiscent of darker tones and textures. One such song with a thought provoking tale is "You're Driving Me Crazy." Another appealing quality is the use of viola and cello giving sinister overtones to these ballads. "Do It Again Sam" is just one song featuring the obscure strings answering in shadowy minor tones. If folk music with mysterious and stirring images is your pleasure, then the Moon Whispers' "Pearl of Blood" is well worth hearing.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Cheryl Hodge with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Indigo "

With her most recent album release "Indigo," talented vocalist/composer Cheryl Hodge shines on this fantastic jazz performance. Hodge's gift of music is thoroughly enjoyed with her vocals that are polished and sophisticated. Take note of the strong and solid range her voice carries especially on the title track "Indigo." Feel the expression and emotion pouring out as she delivers an amazing collection of songs. Listeners will notice the outstanding support from band members as they blend balance and texture while adding a cool swing feel with soft brushes on drums, sweet guitar riffs, or electric piano. Let the melodic sax riffs carry you away on "Guide to Recovery." If you are looking to hear jazz with refreshing vocals, then you will definitely want to add Cheryl Hodge's "Indigo" to your collection.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present New World Jazz Project with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Limpopo "

Catch the cool and refreshing jazz feel blended with Latin and soul on "Limpopo" by New World Jazz Project. These creative and invigorating melodies were written through the sounds and textures experienced from travels abroad. This CD prominently features the alluring expressions of the sax tastefully blended with other instruments. The musicianship on the CD is very impressive. Slow and steamy, "You Don't Know What Love Is" is flavored with colorful chord progressions on keys while the drums deliver soft brushes and steady snare hits. Taking the lead on "Fava Beans," the flute carries you away with breathy and melodic phrasing. "Call of the Toucan" is delightfully filled with dreamscape sounds and gives the impression of a toucan actually talking. "Limpopo" will impress all jazz fans and is a disc gracefully balanced with Latin/soul roots.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present James McKenna with a GrIndie Award for the CD"I Am "

Sheer entertainment describes James McKenna's first full length album, "I Am." McKenna has creatively taken pop/rock music and splashed country ambiance into it. His vocals are strong and polished with lyrics that are straight from the heart. The tracks on this CD are full of energy and enthusiasm, and nicely delivered with high quality production. Catchy and upbeat, "No Remedies" is a pop/rock track with a powerful, sing-along chorus. "Seven Cigarettes" is a poignant and exquisite composition brimming with acoustic country flair. If you are looking to hear intelligent music that merges pop/rock and a little country, then look no further when you hear "I Am."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Jay Arseno with a GrIndie Award for the CD "From the Ashes"

Highly talented artist, Jay Arseno, gives us a huge taste of his musical abilities on his latest CD "From the Ashes." Right from the start, the melodies and rhythmic beats are infectious to hear. Arseno delivers these catchy melodies within pop/alternative rock tracks that flow smoothly from one song to the next. His versatility to cover these styles with strong vocals makes this a truly enjoyable album. The production on this CD is top-notch and mainstream radio-ready. Vibrant and upbeat, "Shine!" will want to lead your tapping feet to the dance floor. Then take a trip to the edgier, alternative rock side as you hear "A Pretty Truth." If you want to hear pop music that is well blended with alternative rock, then "From the Ashes" is an album definitely worth adding to your collection.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Alessandro Bottura with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Morning Grooves"

Jaco Pastorius would be proud to hear the bass chops of jazz artist Alessandro Bottura. His latest record, "Morning Grooves" is a smooth fusion of rock, jazz, and pop instrumentals all rolled into one amazing sound. Bottura's bass playing speaks for itself and is immediately evident right from the opening track, "Out of Sight." His jazz fueled bass runs fly up and down the neck and are nicely driven by some outstanding guitar/drum work. Bottura changes gears a bit and slow things down on "Sweet Tears," which also highlights his staccato playing skills. Any fan of Jaco Pastorius or of virtuoso bass playing will love this album, plus the band behind Bottura is just as exceptional as he.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Alessandro Bottura 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Rock Child with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Ten "

Rock Child's CD "Ten" is embedded with guitar-driven, hard core rock and roll. Reaching well beyond these roots, this group captures an edgy hard rock style using driving, distorted rock guitar riffs overlaid with melodic vocals. This is definitely a turn-up-the-volume classic rock CD with an edgy, raw sound. The album takes you on a journey of happiness and sorrow fused with poetic lyrics. "When the Sun is Coming Down" is a great example of this as the music is mysterious in tonality adding to the obscurity on this track. A powerful guitar intro leads us into the track "An Anticipation" leaving the listener wanting to hear more. If you're a fan of classic hard rock bands such as Black Sabbath then "Ten" is an album well worth checking out.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Stevan Pasero with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Jambossa "

The amazing finger style talents of guitarist Stevan Pasero are undeniable on his latest effort, "Jambossa." The record, an eclectic mix of jazz, flamenco, classical, Brazilian, and tango, also offers listeners some tasty covers to boot. For starters, Pasero takes his aim on Van Morrison's classic "Moondance" and the outcome is brilliant. You also have to listen to his cover of Led Zeppelin's "Stairway to Heaven," it is pretty remarkable. Pasero transforms this classic rock epic into a bouncy, Latin pop song with a jazz infused shuffle, light years away from the original recording. Don't let the covers make you forget just how exceptional a guitarist Pasero is, his talent is superb and his soloing shines through on tracks like "Boulevard of Broken Dreams." If you want to hear some fine guitar playing or like listening to well performed cover songs, "Jambossa" is a safe bet.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Stevan Pasero 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Milestone with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Medley"

Easy listening instrumentals are abounding on Milestone's newest record, "Medley." Although the album does have faint hints of 1980's tones (i.e. Philip Glass), the record is quite contemporary and a good listen as well. The opening track, "Towards the Unknown," sets the overall mood and gives a taste of what's to come. A wall of synthesizers and pianos make up most of these rainy day numbers and are sometimes highlighted by some nice guitar fills. A great example of this would be on "In the Memory of Heroes" and "Half-way Behind." Milestone has done a terrific job in choosing the instrumentation wisely as this paints the tone color pallet that "Medley" offers up. This album is a great buy for anyone wanting some relaxing tunes to de-stress to or is just looking for some top notch instrumental music.

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present Gary Lee Tolley with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Tybee Tyme"

Gary Lee Tolley is all over the board on his latest record, "Tybee Tyme." Although most of the tracks have that Jimmy Buffet beach flare to them, there are also some nice hints of country and Irish sounds on the album. The seaside themes are most fitting on songs like "Tybee Island" and "I've Got Mexico." Listen to any one of these tracks and you'll swear you're sitting on the sand listening to the waves rolling in. Tolley also features a cover of the Righteous Brothers classic, "Unchained Melody," a song which Gary performs with his own style and grace. Don't forget to check out "Poor Boys Delight" with its calming Celtic vibe. Tolley does offer an eclectic mix on "Tybee Tyme," but any Buffet fan will dig it for sure.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Gary Lee Tolley 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Harry Smyer with a GrIndie Award for the CD "In Season Songs for the Sin Sick Soul"

Harry Smyer is a talent that we hope will be heard by the whole world soon enough. His record, "In Season Songs for the Sin Sick Soul," is a tasty mix of 50's soul and southern gospel. Although each song is spiritually themed, this shouldn't stop you from giving this record a good chance if that genre isn't your thing. Smyer's vocals are steeped in the sounds of Sam & Dave or Eddie Kendricks, which is no easy feat. Whether it's "Walk Around Heaven All Day" or "I Got Something Within Me," Smyer consistently delivers a fine performance and will make you wish he was preaching down the street from your house. There is also a beautiful classic gospel cover, "Just a Closer Walk With Thee," which he eloquently puts his own stamp on. Be sure to give a good listen to the fine guitar playing on this record which is very James Burton-esque. Whether you're a gospel fan or just looking for some good soul music, Harry Smyer and his album, "In Season Songs for the Sin Sick Soul," is the way to go.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Harry Smyer 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Alumni with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Well Respected"

Rapper Alumni delivers a solid batch of hip-hop with his debut record, "Well Respected." Alumni's background is much different from that of your normal hip-hop star. Alumni has a Bachelor's in biology and a Master's in education, making him one of the most book smart rappers anyone has ever heard of. Education aside, Alumni has clearly perfected his craft as he easily fits in with the likes of Jay-Z. Need proof? Take a listen to "I'm There" or "The Answer," two standout tracks that deserve to be heard. Also, Alumni take's his listeners for a hardcore reality trip on "Strugglin'." Any fan of Def-Jam artists or of gangsta rap will thoroughly enjoy "Well Respected."

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

RadioIndy is pleased to present 5 Rivers Entertainment with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Righteous Roots Reggae, Vol. 1"

5 Rivers Entertainment Inc. releases the most recent disc "Righteous Roots Reggae, Vol. 1" performed by various artists. As you'd expect from the title, this CD is full of authentic reggae beats and rhythms. Some of the talented male and female artists performing on the CD include Informative Historyman, Dobby Dobson, Odel Johnson, Kingfish Riddim, Spanner Banner, Snatcha Lion, Jahsmin, ChillRootz and L.A. Lallabella from Canada's Moutain Edge Band. The lyrics throughout this entire collection of songs send a message of awareness on many topics. Off beat rhythmic patterns and chanted vocals give spirited grace to "Historyman Chant." "Blazing Jealousy" not only has strong and sincere vocals but the background harmonies add a touch of flavor. As reggae is mostly associated with drum patterns and strong bass lines, notice the incorporation of the strings on songs such as "Foolish Me" and "I Cry." Fans of Bob Marley won't want to miss hearing "Righteous Roots Reggae, Vol. 1" featuring strong vocals and reggae beats from the various male and female artists featured on this CD.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out 5 Rivers Entertainment 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Mike Ringler with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Note-ified"

The sounds of the late 1960's psychedelic movement are still alive and well! Don't believe us? Well, just listen to "Note-ified" the latest release by Mike Ringler and you may reconsider your answer. The CD opens with that staple fuzz guitar tone on the song "You Can Shine," a track that also features vocal work very reminiscent of The Byrds and Buffalo Springfield. Ringler also delves into the British sounds made popular by The Beatles and The Hollies with songs such as "Hope" and "We Know You're Right." There is also an excellent guitar solo on "Words Through Time," which has a cool Moody Blues effect to it. All in all, "Note-ified" screams of "flower power" and is a great album for any fan of that wildly colorful era.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Mike Ringler 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Gal Tamir with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Voluntad"

From the stages of theatre to the world of pop music, Gal Tamir is proving his worth with "Voluntad." Between being raised in Israel and performing on stage in various plays such as Grease, Tamir gathers up all of his influences to produce a well written Latin pop record. His warm, mature voice is really what makes this album come alive and it does not let you down. A solo vocal on "Nadie Nos Vio" shows Tamir's vocal range and just what he has to offer. There is also a beautiful duet with a lead female vocalist on "Sueno," which compliments Tamir's voice very nicely. Also, keep your ears alert for the standard Latin dance number on the track "Donde Van?." Any fan that is fluent in Spanish or a fan of Latin pop music will thoroughly enjoy "Voluntad."

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Gal Tamir's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present E.Z. Riders with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Experienced Zydeco Riders"

The blues/rock band, E.Z. Riders, have released a throwback to the days of Humble Pie with their latest effort, "Experienced Zydeco Riders." Their roots are obvious, with raging Steve Marriott guitar riffs and gritty vocal tones reminiscent of early ZZ Top. "Witchy Woman" is by far the best track on the CD and is not an Eagles cover. Instead, it is an E.Z. Riders blues jaunt, filled with Lynyrd Skynyrd style slide guitar playing. That is really what this band and this disc are all about; strong and rocking guitars. If you crave more string bending guitar action, give a listen to songs like "I Should Have Quit You" and "Mean Mistreater" and you will get your fill. "Experienced Zydeco Riders" belongs in the hands of any 70's blues/rock fan.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out E.Z. Riders 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Warped Angel with a GrIndie Award for the CD "I Wanna Dream"

From the city that brought us Wayne Newton and The Killers, Las Vegas' own Warped Angel are back with their newest disc "I Wanna Dream." The band is comprised of singer/songwriter Lisa Chambliss and musician/songwriter Chris Chimo. Together, they have created an album filled with industrial and electro angst. Don't take that last sentence lightly, Chambliss' voice is chocked full of emotion and drive. "We use the power of emotion to write the lyrics and compose the music," says Chambliss and that can easily be heard on the title track "I Wanna Dream." There are also some hints of Nine Inch Nails hardcore tones scattered about this disc. Just listen to songs like "Distance" and "My War" as they ooze that NIN sound. If you are into that Euro/Industrial rock sound, than Warped Angel is a safe bet.

-Shaun H. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Warped Angel 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites