John Fogerty’s latest album features an all-star group of artists who help him tackle some of his greatest hits. (Album cover property of Vanguard Records)
By: Jacob Elyachar
New Music Releases is back!
This week, I looked at the new albums from John Fogerty, Little Mix and Imagine Dragons plus new singles from Sammy Adams, Chris Mann, Carole King and Simmy.
Wrote a Song for Everyone by John Fogerty
The singer-songwriter’s ninth solo studio album is full of collaborations with a diverse group of artists. Fogerty took some of his most beloved songs and rearranged them to not only suit the guest artists’ needs, but also to showcase his vocals and musicianship. Each of these tracks should be considered for Grammys and I strongly believe this is one of the best albums of 2013. A+
Songs to Download: “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” (with Alan Jackson), “Proud Mary” (with Jennifer Hudson), “Fortunate Son” (with the Foo Fighters), “Born on the Bayou” (with Kid Rock) & “Bad Moon Rising” (with the Zac Brown Band)
DNA by Little Mix
Little Mix is the latest X Factor UK alums to crossover to the American music market. Unlike certain groups (JLS and One Direction) that competed on the reality TV hit, they won their season. This quartet presented a strong debut album thanks to their team of songwriters and producers including the successful English recording production team TMS, Steve Mac, Ester Dean and Tionne “T-Boz” Watkins. I have a feeling that Little Mix will be able to find success in the USA and that they are the breakout group of 2013. A
Songs to Download: “Wings,” “DNA,” “Always Be Together,” “Turn Your Face” & “We Are Who We Are”
Imagine Dragons released a five-track iTunes Session that features acoustic takes on their hits plus a new song. (Cover property of iTunes & Interscope Records)
iTunes Session EP by Imagine Dragons
The Las Vegas-based indie rock band had the pleasure of recording an iTunes Session EP. Imagine Dragons took the acoustic and stripped-down approach to their recordings and it would make any fan happy. However, the only concern I have with the album is that their new song “30 Lives” is unbearable to listen to and should not have been placed on the album. Other than that issue, Imagine Dragons showed growth with their session and this will be a piece of ear candy that indie fans will devour over and over again. B+
“L.A. Story” by Sammy Adams feat. Mike Posner
Underground rapper Sammy Adams is about ready to conquer mainstream music as he released his third big-name collaboration: “L.A. Story” with Mike Posner. Sammy’s beats are smooth and Mike Posner sounds better than ever. I think this song has potential to be not only a summer hit but also a future American Music Award favorite as well. A-
Chris Mann released his new single just in time for the summer portion of his tour. (Photo property of Universal Music Group)
“Unless You Mean It (Remix)” by Chris Mann
Mix 93.3 listeners got a chance to listen to Chris Mann’s new remix of “Unless You Mean It” on Tuesday. This is a great song that perfectly shows off his vocal range and has strong lyrics that will relate with listeners. Hopefully, this single will be featured on his sophomore album. B+
“I Believe In Loving You” by Carole King
This is just an outstanding gem! I wish that the radio would play more of Carole King over certain artists with the initials of SG, TS and JB. A+
“Leave It On the Floor” by Simmy feat. Josh Levi
One of my favorite international artists, Simmy, released a new single with the help of Josh Levi. This song should be played in dance clubs everywhere as it sounds like a superior version of will.i.am and Justin Beiber ‘s “#thatPOWER.” I cannot wait to see what Simmy has in store when his debut album is released. A
To listen to Simmy’s song, click here: https://soundcloud.com/simmymusic/simmy-leave-it-on-the-floor-ft
I do not own the clips that were used throughout the article. They belong to the artists and their record companies respectfully.
