Thirsty Curses - Bruises On Your Shoulders [Music Video Review]

Rating: 4 out of 5

“A clever bit of songwriting, and a simple yet imaginative video highlight this track. There is something here that reminded me of Elton John, but just a hint because Thirsty Curses certainly have their own brand of uniqueness to stand on.

’Bruises On Your Shoulders’ is simply put ... the song of life. An entertaining and concise look at the ho-hum, the dreams, the everyday. Hard to categorize, but I was thoroughly entertained.”

— Travis Erwin (LA on Lock Blogger)

Sydney Lauren - 25 Days [Review]

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

“The lyrical wordplay makes this track mesmerizing even before you take into account the emotive and talented vocals of Sydney Lauren. This track reminds me a bit of the songwriting of Jason Isbell, with a vocal style reminiscent of Kacey Musgraves.

If I had to call a genre I’d say Americana, but really this well-written track is simply good music no matter what you call it.”

— Travis Erwin (LA on Lock Blogger)

Victor Dahlberg - Cry [Review]

Rating: 3.5 out of 5

“Victor Dahlberg hails from Stockholm, but now calls Spain home and his sound conjured thoughts of John Hiatt for me.

Is every not perfect? No. But every note instills a feeling and emotion and you can feel the genuine passion behind both the songwriting and the arrangement. This lands in Americana realm of the Singer/Songwriter world and just feels captivating in its open, honest vibe. ”

— Travis Erwin (LA on Lock Blogger)

Sean Waters and the Sunrise Genius - Flexibility Blues [Review]

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

“Bending and contorting ourselves is something we all tend to do, but bend too damn far and you’ll lose who you are. This bluesy take on the traditional California Folk style is deceivingly well-crafted and insightful. There is a light airy tone to this scintillating track, though the punch of these lyrics hits hard if you let ‘em. ”

— Travis Erwin (LA on Lock Blogger)

Gus Miller - Roll Right On [Review]

Rating: 4.5 out of 5

“From Gram Parsons psychedelic 70’s love for the California desert, to Willie’s bond with the Texas Hill Country, the laid back Outlaw Hippie Country vibe has long been rooted in place and attitude. Gus Miller joins that movement that is still alive and well today.

These days the sound is often called Americana, but it doesn’t really matter what you call it because this songwriting and delivery style is all about attitude and the emotion of being content in your own skin and environment. And those ideals transcends genre, a term which has always been about marketers and promoters for more than the fans and the music. ”

— Travis Erwin (LA on Lock Blogger)