Wednesday 29 October 2014

Scarlett Lee and OBs Music UK live in the Studio with Pandora's Diary


http://ktokradio.com/ and click on Listen Live to K2K Radio

One of the UK Music Scene's undiscovered gems Scarlett Lee will be performing live in the Studio on Wednesday, 12th of November between 1 and 2 pm, so don't forget to tune in as there'll be a real treat in store.

As if that wasn't enough I've also had the pleasure of receiving an invite to be a studio guest myself, this is something I'm really looking forward to.

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Monday 27 October 2014

Melissa De Blok presents a look at the steps involved in putting together an album



Melissa's on going web series - Into Me will give us a look into her musical journey as she prepares to record her debut album.

Episode 1 is an introduction to the series and also features a background into what motivates Melissa in terms of lyrical content and also provides a glance at her creative process.

Episode 2 delves deeper into how Melissa comes up with lyrics for her songs, plus you also have the pleasure of hearing her wonderful voice.

Episode 3 introduces Melissa's songwriting bible and also what we can expect in future episodes.

Episode 4 sees Melissa talk about how she feels about her forthcoming album, how its progressing and her current state of mind.

Episode 5 talks about the criteria for choosing which songs will feature on the album, she turns to us to help her her choose between two sings in particular - Glue and I'll Remember.

Website - http://melissadeblok.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/melissadeblokmusic
Twitter - https://twitter.com/melissadeblok
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/melissadeblokmusic

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Sunday 26 October 2014

The Big Bads pull out all the stops for their latest musical offering - The Lights Go Up



With a catchy bass intro and Georgina's powerful vocals this really is a musical masterpiece, the lyrics are positive and motivating plus the instrumental beats will not only blow you away but they'll also leave you wanting more - if this was available as a download then I would add it to my playlist.

Website - http://www.thebigbads.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheBigBads
Twitter - https://twitter.com/thebigbads
Youtube - http://www.youtube.com/user/TheBigBadsMusic


Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Saturday 25 October 2014

Glaswegian Songbird Holly Drummond returns with yet another amazing EP



Diving In features a upbeat piano arrangement which is beautiful when combined with Holly's soft vocals and the catchy beat.

Fade is a beautiful and heartfelt ballad, Holly's vocals are a joy to ear and thumbs up for the choice of guitar.

Empty is somewhat of a sad melody as made evident by the tempo, lyrics and choice of song title. I love the inclusion of the glockenspiel though.

Let You Go is a more upbeat tune with catchy instrumentals and Holly's melodic tones.

Save You features a delightful string arrangement which is a contrast of sorts to the lyrical content.

Ramses B has done a smashing job on his remix of the already outstanding Diving In.

Holly Drummond's beautiful vocals keep us entertained as always, plus its good to see her building up her musical expertise not only lyrically but also in terms of instrumental arrangement and production.

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/HollyDrummondMusic?fref=ts
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Holly_DrummondYoutube - http://www.youtube.com/user/smoothiesforme?feature=watch

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Monday 20 October 2014

Scarlett Lee returns with another corker of a tune


Scarlett Lee continues to develop her already impressive vocal and song writing skills.

In Your Eyes is an absolute work of musical art from its orchestral intro to Scarlett's powerful vocals and lyrics which are delivered from the heart to catchy percussion beats and the way the song ends is simply beautiful.

Be sure to tune into to hear this talented singer/songwriter perform live on the 12th of November between 1 and 2 pm on www.ktokradio.com



Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Sunday 19 October 2014

Jess King is London Bound for Musefest



Following on the success of her EP release at the start of the year and her gigs in Paris, Jess has had the honour of getting invited to perform at Musefest in Hackney, London on the 29th of November.


Musefest is a showcase of inspirational women in Music and the evening will not only feature live music but also DJs, photographers, videos and much much more.

This is the first event of its kind and a percentage of the event's proceeds will be donated to the White Ribbon Alliance, who strive for safe birth all around the world.

The event starts at 7.30 pm and tickets can be purchased for £7 via http://www.picturehouses.co.uk/film/Musefest_18/ or for £10 on the door.

Website: http://www.jessking.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/jesskingfanpage
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jesskingmusic
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/jesskingofficial

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Friday 17 October 2014

The sensually voiced Fifi Rong releases the video for Breathless



Breathless is beautiful thanks to Fifi's silky vocals and the powerful instrumental arrangement.

The video is simplistic but also at the same time is very arty with its effects even with the somber feel, hats off to Paris Sewell for this.

The release of the video coincides with the relaunch of Fifirong.com and if that wasn't enough check out the remix of Next Pursuit - http://fifirong.bandcamp.com/album/next-pursuit-rmx



Fifi has found some talented DJs to remix some of the tracks featured on Next Pursuit, so a big round of applause to Phaeleh, Mainline Mussy, Emiliano Melis and Kente.

These four turned the already unique tracks into something with the potential to appeal to an even wider audience.

To wrap up these treats from Fifi Rong, you will be able to experience her amazing vocals yourself on the 29th of October at Camden Barfly.

http://mamacolive.com/thebarfly/listings/upcoming-events/11328/fifi-rong-stats-naomi-scott-konvex/

Website - http://www.fifirong.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/fifirongmusic




Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Thursday 16 October 2014

Gentry Fox delivers slick rhymes and addictive instrumental beats



Rare Demo Shit (Vol. 1) is 10 tracks of lyrics which are relevant to every day life plus the album also features first class production values.

Revengeance features some powerful instrumentals halfway through and also catchy rhymes.

Adoxography has a laid back instrumental melody and also slick verses.

Deliverance is chockablock with lightning fast lyrics and addictive instrumental beats - in terms of production this is one of my fave tracks.

Ascension is captivating thanks to its orchestral beats.

Memores is a track that really speaks to me with its smooth lyrics and beautiful instrumental melody.

Overground has some of the same qualities as Memores which ensure its just as musically appealing.

As reflected by the title Downcast is a somber track because of its lyrics and beat, thumbs up to Gentry Fox for sampling Dido and I love the lyrical twist at the end of the song.

Alive is another fast paced song with lyrics which are very relevant to life.

Forever is a powerful conclusion to Rare Demo Shit (Vol. 1).

Gentry Fox is a talented artist with many strings on his bow, which range from Hip Hop to Acting to Graphic Design. Gentry also found his own record label SUB\ROK records.

After relocating from Wyoming to Salt Lake City in 2011, he has connected with his Hip Hop Peers and then rest as they say is History.


Website - www.gentryfox.com

Facebook - www.facebook.com/gentryfox



Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Wednesday 15 October 2014

Rock out to Mudpusher's intense vocals and revved up instrumentals



The intro to Sacrilege is a true work of art both musically and visually, listening to the amazing orchestral arrangement gave me goosebumps.

Sacrilege itself is full to the brim with energetic instrumental beats which are accompanied with beautiful vocals thanks to Kimberly Nordqvist and the guitar riffs halfway through are simply amazing.

The acoustic version begins with a gentle piano melody and Kimberly really gets her chance to shine as her vocals go hand in hand with a truly beautiful instrumental arrangement.

World Destroyer starts with supercharged beats, if you like your music loud and with a lightning fast tempo then Mudpusher is perfect for you.

Swedish Groove Metal band Mudpusher were formed in 2008, previously they were performing as Coffin Crawler.

Coffin Crawler specialised in a combo of Doom and Death Metal, but they also had a love of Rhythmic Music and New Metal acts such as Korn, Fear Factor and Soulfly - this influenced their future musical performances.

Thanks to Indie Band Guru ( https://www.facebook.com/indiebandguru?fref=ts ) for bringing Kimberly's talented vocal skills to my attention.

Website - http://www.mudpusher.se

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/mudpusher

Sunday 12 October 2014

Missing You delivers musical elegance thanks to Soul Sensation Greyce



Greyce returns to wow us once again with the beautiful melodies of Missing You

This song is truly a work of art with its sublime piano arrangement, heart felt lyrics and Greyce's smooth vocals - as the notes hit our ears it really does feel magical. Missing You will feature on Greyce's forthcoming compilation - The Piano Series.

This amazing musician discovered her love for music from the age of 11, started songwriting at 17 and took to the stage as a solo artist a year later. Greyce has not only acquired a UK Fan-base but has also performed internationally.

Her lyrics are inspired by life experiences and her influences include the vocal gravitas of Lianne La Havas, the stage presence of Jill Scott and the lyrical genius of ASA. 

This is only however the tip of the iceberg as Greyce has merged each of these elements to create her own unique musical presence both on stage and also in the studio.

Website - http://www.greycemusic.com/

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/GreyceMusic




Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Friday 10 October 2014

1 in Five will rock you with their FREE Hold on EP


Something in the Water is a supercharged rock anthem chock full of energetic instrumental beats and powerful vocals.

Black Lake opens with harmonized vocals and catchy piano chords, the rest of the song never fails to captivate with smooth beats and addictive guitar riffs.

Hold On is packed full of electrifying melodies, 1 in Five pull out all the stops to make this track something musically unique.

Lullaby showcases more enjoyable instrumentals alongside their amped up vocal performances.

For over a decade Jay, Mike, Chris, James and Matt have performed with various bands in and around Brighton, during which each of them has honed their craft and fully embraced their musical strengths and weaknesses. The result of this musical journey is a mature, exciting sound that represents entire lives saturated in music.

Guitarist Mike Roche and vocalist Jay Halsall formed their 1st band together, Montrose Avenue with Mike’s brother Chris Roche as a 2nd guitarist in 2006. Montrose Avenue performed around South East England, headlining local shows and also supporting signed touring artists such as Imperial Vipers and Voodoo Six before parting ways in 2011.

After a 2 year hiatus Jay and Mike started writing together again, bringing Chris back – this time to play Keys – adding an exciting new dynamic into the writing process. The boys began writing and recording the Hold On EP while searching for a full time bass player and drummer.

In early 2014 Mike’s school friend James Twaites joined 1 in Five on bass. James was previously the front man for 10 years in the long running local band Sacramento, playing alongside Mike across the UK. 

The impressive line up for 1 in Five was completed in September 2014 with the addition of Jay’s old friend and drummer Matt Hill. 1 in Five was formed and their unique, mature, and distinct sound continues to excite and develop to this day.

Website - http://www.1inFive.com
Facebook - http://www.Facebook.com/1inFive
Twitter - http://www.Twitter.com/1inFiveHQ
Soundcloud - http://www.soundCloud.com/1inFive
Youtube - http://www.YouTube.com/1inFiveHQ

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Thursday 9 October 2014

Sea Lions by the softly voiced Clara Engel


Clara Engel's performance of Sea Lions is a slight departure from the usual music I feature but there's no denying the beauty of her voice.

Sea Lions sounds like a national anthem at times, Clara has really done it justice and the instrumental arrangement just gives the performance more gravitas.

Clara is a Toronto based Indie Musician, she has already and rather impressively I must add independently recorded and released eight albums.

On top of that she has worked alongside International artists from the UK, Brazil, Germany and Turkey.

In terms of airplay Clara Engel has featured not only on Italian National Radio but both BBC Radio 2 and BBC Introducing.

Finally she wrote and recorded the soundtrack for the Short Film - We Are Not Here as well as releasing a feature length album titled Ashes and Tangerines.

Website - http://claraengel.net/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/claraengelmusic
Twitter - https://twitter.com/clara_engel

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Wednesday 8 October 2014

J.P. Kallio entertains us with moving lyrics and catchy instrumentals


Sunny Summer's Day is a upbeat track with cheery instruments and Bluesy/Country themed vocals - Thumbs up to the Banjo.

City Lights features a delightful Guitar arrangement.

Judge is a smooth track with lyrics which relate to growing up and trying to fit in.

Tell My Darling is a Country ballad about proposing but with a twist.

Daddy's Girl has a slightly somber sound to it but J.P is a pro with his lyrical compositions.

Only Son seems to feature Maracas, a unique choice of instrument for this genre of song.

Pain has a somber feel to it, not only lyrically but also in its instrumental arrangement.

This Town is another downbeat track which lyrically depicts society's problems, nice use of the flute however.

Close To The End is another upbeat track and I absolutely love the sound of the opening Guitar Riff.

They Don't Make Them Anymore Like That is a beautiful melody thanks to the choice of instruments and J.P's vocals.

Soul is exactly as the title suggests, chock full of soft instrumental beats and a sad story via J.P's verses.

J.P. Kallio tells some sad stories via 11 tracks of Bluesy/Country Melodies.

Originally from Finland, during the late 90s just after his 21st birthday he relocated to Ireland. His only kills are of the Musical variety. He is currently in a Irish Modern Folk Band called Sliotar and also a Punk Rock Band - Boneyard Bastards.

Not all his songs are musically suited for either of the bands so he's hoping to eventually release them as a solo project.

Website - http://www.jpkalliomusic.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/jpkalliomusic
Twitter - http://twitter.com/jpkalliomusic
Youtube - http://www.youtube.com/jpkallio 


Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Tuesday 7 October 2014

The powerful vocals of Welsh Soulstress Llio Millward are sure to captivate you



This musical gem landed on my twitter timeline on my birthday no less, so without any further delay here is a short review and I hope you enjoy this album as much as I did.

Heat Of The Fire is a mixture of 16 tracks of pure no holds barred soul, which is delivered straight from the heart and also soft serene melodies with gentle instrumental arrangements - the eclectic mix of instruments is simply sublime.

The intro sets the tone for the rest of the album, thanks to Llio's amazing vocals.

Whilst it was difficult to choose a fave track, I feel obliged to mention What Did I Do To You? as it opens with a powerful intro and also Deep Waters which is a jazzy number that's easy on the ears.

Llio is one impressive singer/songwriter with her smouldering voice, heartfelt lyrics and a impressive band supporting her.

She's certainly more then capable of captivating her audience as she is incredibly talented. On top of that Llio also adds bilingual performances to her repertoire as she performs in both English and Welsh.

Llio Millward is a London based Singer/Songwriter, her debut album Heat Of The Fire was released in September 2014. She is also a dab hand on the Piano and Violin.

Born in Wales, entertainment has always been a passion of hers, not only as a Singer but also an actress of both stage and screen.

In her 20s she formed a short lived Indie Rock Band - Llio's obsession, her musical journey then led her to London and eventually musical theatre, specifically Les Miserables. She then took a hiatus to study as a Psychotherapist before returning to the music arena in 2012.

Website - http://www.lliomillward.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pages/Llio-Millward-Singer-and-songwriter/237304346331018

Twitter - https://twitter.com/lliomillwardvox

Post By - Boulent Mustafa

Monday 6 October 2014

Pandora's Diary takes jam sessions to a whole new level


Pandora's Diary recorded three acoustic performances in some of Asia's most exotic locations.

With Sarah's soft vocals and some talented guitarists this is one unforgettable jam session, Sarah really has a penchant for performing in some pretty unique locations.

Koh Tao is more laidback then Memories but it seems to go hand in hand with the amazing scenery.

In her own words Pandora's Diary is as a life artist and she adds magic to her life, surroundings and the people she encounters.

Musically she performs both as a solo folk musician and also as part of of the Whirling Dervish Project which also features Maya Curry on Flute and David Naylor on Tabla and she also collaborates with songwriter Leonheard and rapper I.T from time to time.

This talented individual was able to spare a few fleeting moments from her hectic schedule to answer a few questions for us.


How did you get into music in the first place?
Into music... hmmm. My first "band" was with my brothers on air guitar and steel pans from the kitchen and me on vocals in the basement singing "Smooth Criminal"... 

No, I guess that doesn't count... From 2000 - 2001 ran a music cafe in Bukit Lawang in front of the magical rainforest - used to sing covers - acoustic on Wednesdays, full band on Saturdays, waitressing and managing the cafe in between songs. 

Who were your musical influences?
Janis Joplin, Joan Baez, and Dangdut (Indonesian popular folk, a fusion of Arabic, Indian rhythm sections and Portuguese Fadu) 

What tunes are currently on repeat on your Mp3 Player?
Cat Empire: "The Darkness", Gnawa Diffusion "Je voudrais etre un fauteil", Etta James: "I'd Rather Go Blind", Music Cycles "Darling Corey"

Do you often go on musical road trips like you did in Asia?
I try to tour once a year (at least!) 

Last year, I went on a road trip tour of Europe's living rooms, playing 6 gigs in 5 cities across Europe - in 7 days - and made a documentary of the trip together with photographer Endi Suhendi (http://pandorasdiary.com/living-room-tour-documentary/

At the end of October, I'm going back to Switzerland to play a few living rooms and to share the documentary which is only available live as yet. Our host in Basel is the celloist and one of the vocalists for Swiss classic-folk band, Serafyn  

What’s your life outside of music?
My kids, and working as a German and Indonesian interpreter. 

If you could collaborate with any singer who would it be?
Most of the singers I worship are dead :(

I would love to collaborate with Bipul Chettri, a fantastic Nepalese folk artist, who is currently gaining a lot of success. 

What’s your favourite genre of music?
Anything with a twist of world fusion (Balkan Ska, like Pannonia Ska Orchestra or London's Gypsy Hill, Electroswing, Asian Dub Foundation/Punjabi MC)  

What’s next for you musically and are there plans for a UK Tour?
Currently working on a cross continent collaboration for "Game for Two"

We will be recording Cuban beats in the UK, then guitars in Indonesia, an MC in New Orleans and then back to the UK for flute, bass and vocals, mixing and mastering. 

UK tour, not yet... Switzerland first :) then Germany in December

What are your strengths and weaknesses?
Strengths - networking, organising events and tours, I don't get stressed out easily.
Weakness - a little eccentric and sometimes forget to plan resting time.

Where do you draw inspiration for your song lyrics?
All my song lyrics are extremely personal - that is where the name Pandorasdiary comes from like Smell the Roses comes from learning to let go and the very fact that we can change and live in the moment; or Game for Two about knowing it's the end of a relationship. 

What is your guilty pleasure?
No, I don't listen to deathcore... I love coffee and clove cigarettes. 

Website - http://pandorasdiary.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/pandorasdiary?fref=ts
Twitter - https://twitter.com/pandorasdiary
Soundcloud - https://soundcloud.com/pandorasdiary
Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCr1fKgecru58JMsHsyDDlYw

Post By - Boulent Mustafa