#umpromo

Hey guys! As you can tell, we’ve been on a little break when it comes to full-length reviews here on Untold Music Promotion. However, after nearly a year, we are BACK with a brand new website! 

You can find us at: www.untoldmusicpromotion.com

That’s right, we’re official now! 

I hope you’re happy with our relaunch, and I can’t wait to continue sharing some of my favorite new music with you. Our first review will be coming SOON! See you over there ;) 

The Dares are an alternative rock band from California, comprised of Ben (guitar/vocal leader), Matt (drums/vocal backing), Brandon (bass/vocal backing) and Anthony (guitar/vocal backing).

1. Radical 2. Hangfire 3. Bird Brain 4. Bad Faith 5. Will To Resist 6. Bailey 7. Back In Town

As a fan of the group since roughly 2009, I’m thankful to have been able to experience their growth over the years; their very distinctive and catchy sound has remained strong. In their newest EP, Bad Faith, you get so much depth within each component – I’d suggest that you really focus on the messages presented.

Kicking off with “Radical,” there are beachy notes joined by deep lyrics. It exudes this idea of being stuck in a negative space. Strung with feelings of not wanting to live for the expectations of other people; pushing through the “tidal wave” that’s about to crash down on you. “Radical” is a prominent start to an EP that’s packed full of similar intensity and upbeat instrumentals.

“Hangfire” unquestionably contains more rock elements. It is addressing the confusing nature of trying to figure out if someone is sticking around. One thing that I’ve always respected about The Dares is their impeccable lyric writing. Their style has been consistently complex in a world where too many people are using bland vocabulary to express themselves.

A representation of being held back, “Bird Brain” is about not following the routine that is forced upon society. There are hints of rebellion and fighting restrictions. Inspiring freedom with a great sound and lines such as, “here’s to shaking things up, to tearing them down, this town is yours and mine now.”

Really enjoyed the beat in “Bad Faith.” Matched with fantastic vocals, it is highly entertaining and fun to follow. This track features a sick purely instrumental moment shortly after the halfway point, which I think had a brilliant impact on the track. The vulnerable honesty was a highlight for me.

Although “Will To Resist” is the shortest song on the EP, I appreciate what it contributes; it has a profoundly simplistic approach. This will resonate with anyone who is feeling a bit misplaced regarding who they are. There is a powerful inner voice being portrayed here.

“Bailey” has undertones of a spy movie or something in the beginning… am I the only one who thinks so? A nice strength flows from start to finish, leaving me gratified and intrigued.  “Your words are cheap, I won’t believe them again” shows a rightful bitterness from being burned too many times by someone, but the lyrics that follow emphasize conflicting thoughts of still needing (or wanting) them.

Pleasantly impressed by how “Back in Town” rounds out the EP with an almost beautifully haunting essence. As with all The Dares music, it’s fairly open to interpretation. Although I’m sure they have their original thought process and intent, it’s amazing that people can relate to each track differently.

After many years of supporting these guys, I’m honored to have finally been able to write about them and Bad Faith! Hope you love The Dares as much as I do.

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Ecstatic about the release of Ask Jonesy & Company’s new single, “Stings”!

Ask Jonesy & Company balance their high-intensity debut single, “Burning Fire”, by following up with an entrancing second track, “Stings”. Again, the group showcases how effortlessly they blend their individual talents together to make truly charismatic music.

The instrumentals and vocals both demand your focus, but they do so in a way that one does not overpower the other – this allows the rich and gripping qualities of each element to radiate exactly how they should. You’ll find yourself closing your eyes and simply jamming out to “Stings”. Lyrically powerful and expressive of the drifting of two people; a deep connection that has dissipated. This brings up the question about whether the pain would be worse from staying or from going. Does anyone else feel that punch of raw emotion in every word? Ooh the chills!

Although “Stings” is noticeably different from “Burning Fire”, it still exemplifies what I imagine is going to be a familiar Ask Jonesy & Company sound. Why did you decide that this would be the best choice for a second single? Was there another strong contender? 

Ricky: Following the release of "Burning Fire", I felt we needed to maximize on the momentum. Although, I was perplexed to find the best next move. Troy called me with the same thought process & said, "Why wait? Let's get more music out asap, we have the songs to do it!". We realized that there's no point in following the trend of the music industry because it's a whole new game. "Stings" still encompasses that authentic 'arena rock' sound we hope to create but emotionally has a completely different essence than "Burning Fire". All three of us wanted to give the fans a completely different side of the band.  

Can you tell us a little bit about what “Stings” means to you and how this song came to life? Troy: "Stings" is the very first song we wrote together as a band. Leo came in with a beautiful riff that painted such a sorrowful picture we couldn't help but write about losing something incredibly precious. I think anyone could draw from experience on that feeling.

As you’re starting to play some shows, what do you hope that the experience is like for someone who attends? What kind of atmosphere will a live AJ&Co performance have? Leo: As a band we aim to capture a very raw, rock experience. The only elements on stage creating sound are the people you see. We hope everyone that leaves an AJ&Co show feels like they've been on a ride, energized on life.

The band has an exciting show coming up at Amplyfi in Los Angeles, CA on August 4th – if you’re in the area, don’t miss out!

If you’re as captivated as I am, make sure to befriend Ask Jonesy & Company at the places below!

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Tracks: 1. Trash 2. Still in Love with You 3. Fire on Water 4. Traumatic 5. Black and White Adidas ft. Willis

Young Luv is a relatively new artist who creates music that stands out, and has gained rapidly growing amounts of dedicated supporters. But it’s not all about the numbers; he forms genuine connections with those who believe in him. Talent aside, that is what will lead to his success. His new EP Trash Rhapsody comes as the result of being experimental, and taking a chance on an “artistic exercise”. 

“Trash” greets you with sounds inspired by the “Trashing the Camp” scene from Tarzan. His vocal delivery is smooth and you can’t help but become more engaged with each word. What was accomplished with “Trash” is quite clever; it seems like a concept that hasn’t been overly done before. Young Luv tells us that it’s all about, “embracing the future generation of music and how it’s never a bad thing to enjoy music, even if it’s odd or different”. You’re given a taste of the special qualities he possesses.

Although fairly mellow, “Still in Love with You” holds the ability to make an impact – especially when you pay attention to the emotion behind the lyrics. Reflective of a frustrating heartbreak; actively searching for an answer and relief. Hear those subtle rain noises? He says that after continuously having dreams about his ex, he was on a walk with his dog when a sprinkler captivated him and he wanted it to be included. Interesting, right?

Written about his celebrity crush Halsey, “Fire on Water” is a representation of the improbable chances of a relationship with the popular singer. Like all of his music, there’s a story and this guy definitely knows how to tell it. What I think many people appreciate about Young Luv is his vulnerable willingness to show his heart to the world, and putting out songs that he might view as “throw away” (hence the title), but we love.

Okay, can we acknowledge that flow he has in “Traumatic”? You’ll be up for the challenge of learning every line, and trying to keep up as you enthusiastically sing along. He describes it as the EP’s “hard EDM track”. The chorus is incredibly catchy. It’s about an addiction to someone that clearly isn’t good for you and dismissing other options because of it.

Trash Rhapsody finishes with “Black and White Adidas ft. Willis”. There is a lot of visualization presented. A refurbished idea from a few years back when he saw someone in math class wearing the shoes. It’s fun, a bit comical at times, but most importantly it’s a solid closing track. Found it on repeat.

After listening to the EP countless times since its release, I’m still impressed by how refreshing and innovative Young Luv’s art is. Each track is rightfully different, but they are cohesive and balance one another beautifully. He says that he’s proud of the result and how much he has improved with mixing/mastering. There are layers and complexity not only in the music itself, but it’s strung charmingly throughout every part of Trash Rhapsody. Without question, it’s in my top 5 favorite albums of 2017 so far.

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Wild debut single “Burning Fire” from Ask Jonesy & Company is here!

Ask Jonesy & Company is the joining of 3 young artists/musicians, and their incredible backing band, who are flawlessly embracing rock ‘n’ roll. It’s a natural fit for Troy Romzek, Ricky Ficarelli and Leo Howard; they’ve successfully created a solid sound + image for themselves.

Full force from the start, “Burning Fire” is built on rousing vocals that give life to striking lyrics about attraction and desire for someone who has the ability to ignite a spark within you. The thrilling instrumentals are an infusion of classic elements that cultivate a fun and energetic vibe. They are multifaceted, and “Burning Fire” provides a shining glimpse of their music-savvy; easily fuels the craving for more.

This is the kind of track I’m constantly searching for here on UMP. It’s bold and refreshing but still reminiscent of what I listened to growing up. They have definitely found their place in the music scene; offering tunes that a wide variety of people will enjoy.

Check out the “Burning Fire” music video to get a visual sense of who Ask Jonesy & Company is:

Note from AJ & Co:

“we want the fans to know we worked together in the studio, played multiple secret shows & spent almost a year behind the scenes getting the dynamic/sound/feel of this band just right. We didn't rush this thing! There's obvious deep influences of rock 'n' roll & blues, but we also love pop (when done right!) … We'll be releasing a follow-up single in July that shows a more emotional side of the group with a ballad-type feel.”

After bringing so much electricity with their debut single, I’m beyond stoked for what’s next!