Drake Bell rejuvenates rockabilly as he pays tribute to his musical heroes on “Ready, Steady, Go!” (Album cover property of Surfdog Records)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
This week’s New Music Releases will make you rock out in your office, gym or home!
Ready, Steady, Go! By Drake Bell
Drake Bell’s third studio album pays tribute to several of the former Nickelodeon (and current Ultimate Spider-Man) star’s biggest inspirations. Drake successfully rejuvenated his musical career with his infectious covers of classic anthems from Kinks, Billy Joel and Queen. In addition, the arrangements and the vocals will leave listeners in a happy trance throughout the entire listening experience. B+
Tracks to Download: “Bitchcraft,” “It’s Still Rock And Roll To Me,” “Makes Me Happy” & “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.”
After Hours by Timeflies
Rod “Rez” Resnick and Cal Shapiro are looking to spice up multiple musical genres! The duo, known as Timeflies, released their first major studio album off of Island Records. Between Resnick’s superb production and Shapiro’s excellent vocals, this album shows why Resnick and Shapiro will be major players in the millennial generation’s musical future. Also, keep an ear out for T-Pain, Fablous and Katie Sky, who provide vocal assists on “Somebody Gon Get It,” “Fall” & “Monsters” respectively. A-
Tracks to Download: “Somebody Gon Get It,” “Fall,” “Monsters” & “Ride”
Shatter Me by Lindsey Stirling
One of my all-time favorite America’s Got Talent alumni released her sophomore album. Shatter Me continues to show why Lindsey Stirling is turning the world of classical crossover music upside down. Listeners will not only enjoy listening to this album, but also hear her grow as an arranger, artist and violinist. A
Tracks to Download: “Beyond the Veil,” “Shatter Me,” “Night Vision,” “Take Flight” & “We Are Giants”
Matt Goss showcased his brilliant artistry in his latest studio album: “Life You Imagine” (Album cover property of Virgin Records & Decca Records)
Life You Imagine by Matt Goss
For the past couple of years, Matt Goss has taken Las Vegas by storm! In his latest studio album, Mr. Goss successfully flexed his vocal range and proved why he deserves to be a superstar. I hope that Mr. Goss travels outside of Sin City and travels across the country soon! A-
Tracks to Download: “Mustang,” “When Will I Be Famous,” “Strong” & “Lovely Las Vegas”
Ariana Grande & Iggy Azalea prove to be a winning combination on their first collaboration: “Problem.” (Album cover property of Republic Records)
“Problem” by Ariana Grande feat. Iggy Azalea
My song of the week is Ariana Grande’s first single of 2014! “Problem” is an impressive Pop/R&B/Dance/Hip-Hop track! The production by an all-star team of Illya, Iggy Azalea (who also drops some outstanding raps in the song) Savan Kotecha and Max Martin will rock clubs and radio stations throughout the summer. Plus, Ariana continued to deliver irresistible ear candy as she continued to showcase her amazing upper vocal register. A+
“Do It Again” by Royksopp & Robyn
One of the biggest songs that is going to top global music charts this year might be Royksopp and Robyn’s “Do It Again.” Robyn showcased why she is Sweden’s top songbird with her alluring vocals. In addition, Royksopp also made a claim that they are a force to be reckoned with in the EDM world. I cannot wait to hear the rest of their mini collaboration album. A
I do not own the clips that are sprinkled throughout this review. They belong to the artists and their respective record labels.
