CME Independent Music Reviews

Driving pop/rock, acoustic folk and sheer poetry combine to make Steven Kalas a driving force on the independent scene.

With simple story telling over lulling music Mr. Kalas can make you dance, cry or seethe with the twist of his guitar. Very nicely arranged and produced Steven and his band are on point. Live as If is a haunting musical story of life and the future.

Read more: Steven Kalas

Laura Wood and her many talents are sure to impress at any time! A multi-talented vocalist, songwriter, percussionist and guitarist this lady boasts many musical talents.

Endorsed by Takamine Guitars and La Bella Strings she plays pretty much anything from hot foot stompin' originals to smooth jazz and classic rock.

Take a listen to the smooth sultry sounds of "Road to Heaven" or the foot boppin' and upbeat "South Station Slide".

A true musician, I call on others to check in and hear how it can be done.

Label: Independent
Standout Tracks: South Station Slide

Website: www.laurawoodmusic.com
EPK: www.sonicbids.com/laurawood

Sweet Annie. Oh Sweet Annie... Calming melodies accompany Annie's simple yet enthralling voice that warm the heart and carry the soul with sweet tranquility.

With light flavors of Sade and Dido, Annie tears at the core of our very being with an overt essence of love and genuine emotion. Truly honeyed without passing the point of being overly saccharine, Annie blends a musical style that is at times, upbeat and poignant while managing to maintain a reassuring and consistent vibe that is sure to alleviate the trials and tribulations of our lives.

Read more: Sweet Annie

Like being home and young again. Wes Tucker & the Skillets bring warmth and comfort to music. It reminds me of the cold winter nights as a child listening to Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young.

A true masterpiece of folk rock. The guitar sings sweet melodies with riffs that have been placed so perfectly that you simply feel them dancing in you.

Read more: Wes Tucker & The Skillets

Rock out with these cats and you'll find yourself bopping to a nicely arranged pop rock appeal.

Reminiscent of the Bare Naked Ladies meets Alabama, these guys have truly mixed the North and South sounds together quite nicely. Very tight and well thought arrangements are displayed on every track, which demonstrates the hard work these gentlemen put into their craft.

Read more: Victory Gin

Jehan Gonsalkorale is an insanely talented songwriter with a deeply haunting vocal delivery. At The Gate tears at the heart and reveals what it means to awaken true emotion...

A seasoned performer from Sydney, Australia, Jehan performed 100 gigs in 8 months and the rewards seem to be paying off for him. It is with an open heart and an obvious love of people that Jehan's music touches us and reveals the true depths of his powerful songwriting abilities.

Read more: Jehan Gonsalkorale