WMMW presents Acclaimed Americana Duo The Hummingbyrds

13510676_10206911379807332_666601323_n

 

 

Steve McWilliams and Debra Buonaccorsi

Steve McWilliams and Debra Buonaccorsi

Steve McWilliams and Debra Buonaccorsi are an Americana folk music duo originally from Washington DC who began writing together in 2008 with their accomplished creation Dizzy Miss Lizzie’s Roadside Revue, appearing at the Kennedy Center, NYMF Festival in NYC, and along the way packing houses to enthusiastic crowds. During this time together they have written and recorded some of the most dynamic Americana Folk songs you’ll ever have the pleasure of listening to.

I asked Steve and Debra where the name Hummingbyrd came from. The name came from the unbelievable harmony that the two share together. Together they have an intimacy, a flow, this natural with the harmony and melodies that come forth, harmonies and vocals that really set them apart.

Our songs are very impressionistic~ Steve McWilliams~

As a solo artist Steve has five critically acclaimed albums to his credit. He has toured Europe and the US and has charted in Italy and Ireland. Debra is a phenomenal songwriter who has a degree in theater from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts and has received critical acclaim as a songwriter and playwright.

Not only are they one of the industry’s fastest rising Americana Duo’s but they are also gifted in the art of composing fresh and exciting scores for theater plays and musicals.

Musical theater credits and accolades include: In 2013 the New York Music Festival for Dizzy Miss Lizzie’s Roadside Revue presents “The Brontes” Book and 2016/17 Kennedy Center and United States Botanic Garden presents “Flowers Stink”. These are just a mere mention of the many inspirational scores they have written together.

The Hummingbyrds

The Hummingbyrds

Steve and Debra told me that they actually met through their work with the theater. Through that meeting they made Hummingbyrd history, by becoming a highly sought after folk rock/roots Americana duo. McWilliams passionate guitar finger-picking and Debra’s earthy vocals and saucy accordion talents are a perfect accompaniment. They’re like jam and bread without intention.

Both hold a deep love of music. They are passionate and devoted to mastery of their work. Their work exudes a distinctively rich and driving energy that is shown in the quality of the music they make. Their hope for the future is that their music will inspire others. The essence is organic. They both described their relationship and their art of writing as organic, real, genuine.

Every song we do can transport us to the moment we wrote it” ~Steve McWilliams~

The lyrics and ideas for their music come from so many different places and most especially from life experiences. There must be a strong and soulful vibe that draws them toward a sound or a lyric or an idea. They have a natural born chemistry that connects them not only to the music and the lyrics of a song but to the magic that happens in the performance.

As for how we select our songs we just let things flow organically and we go with the musical vibe~The Hummingbyrds~

fullsizerenderAs we talked both Steve and Debra spoke of how they might take a drive through a scenic town or see a particular name of a place that stands out, or it could be a special moment shared with family or friends and that in one of those moments, something they saw might inspire them to write new material. What ever the inspiration might be both share equally together in the composition of the music and the lyrics.

All our songs have special meanings to us. Greyhound and Rosemarie, are especially near and dear to us. Both are true favorites.~ Debra Buonaccorsi ~

They strive to keep things organic and real when it comes to the creation of their music. It’s not synthetically processed at all. It’s not fabricated by a machine. Their music is solid, attractive and alluring. The energy of the stage presence of both is what makes it so easy to love what you hear and what you see.

Having our own distinctive sound is very important to us. We want to stay true to ourselves. ~Debra Buonaccorsi ~

Currently The Hummingbyrds are working on a new CD due out hopefully in November. For more information on how you can help support the new project you can visit them at www.thehummingbyrds.com

It’s true fell good music. A mix of folk rock, country and roots rock. No matter how down you may be or what ails you. It will all be gone and done when you sit for an evening with these two absolutely amazing folks. Please enjoy “The Hummingbyrds”………….

 

*The material included in this article is the sole property of the writer, (Sherryl Craig,) and the photographer, (Cilene Bosch.) All elements may be used in other publications as determined by the owners. Permission must be obtained for reproduction.

 

 

Widely Acclaimed British Folk Rock Group Tumbler presents “Come To The Edge”

Tumbler cover courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Tumbler cover courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Highly acclaimed British alternative rock/ folk rock group Tumbler recently released their latest and maybe greatest album called “Come To The Edge” and reviews are looking good. Richard Grace, Harry Grace and Dave Needham make up “Tumbler” and boy do they have a fine connection.

Produced at Dark Horse Studio in Epsom England this 12 track CD, Engineering, mixing, mastering, production and additional instrumentation by Dave Needham at Dark Horse Studio, Epsom, England.

Their first album “You Said” was just the tip of the iceberg for Tumbler. It was a first and it was a learning experience. They grew in skill and song writing and they found their own special style and sound through honing new ideas and performance abilities.

The first track is “Black Sheep” and it’s folk rock full blast. Vocals are great. Composition is hot and the instrumentation if solid. I love the softer essence at the bridge.

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

The exotic blend of folk, rock, and alternative pop sets Tumbler on the course of having another hit collection. They are different and yet similar of course to other artists in this genre but…they have their own unique and distinctive texture to their music and their vocals.

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“Nothing To Hold You” is the fourth track on this album. This one has just a hint of country rock with the mix of just a hint of almost rock a billy. Love the strong vocals and up beat groove. This song was inspired by a crazy young lady that Richard had the pleasure of knowing. But it seems this one just wasn’t meant to be. “Got nothing to hold you, I can’t keep or control you, Oh Lady I’m sold on you, But all the same….it’s goodbye.”

Richard Grace had a dream to build a solid life in the music industry but early in the journey the woman whole held his heart was struggling with a serious illness and nearly died. So it was a no brainer that home and family would have to come first. Twenty years passed, a new wife and soon kids graced his life. Four of his six sons grew to love music and began to share in their Dads dream.

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“Diamond In A Drawer” is full and expressive. I love the lines….”Just a ring she took but never wore
despite how much it cost , that wasn’t what was lost”……It talks of the desire for her love but how it never fully bloomed. The lyrics are not over the top but impressive, the instrumentation is raw and original.

Harry Grace is the fifth son and performing came naturally to him. During school years he was the one who knew all the words to all the songs and all the parts for all his fellow students. He was a big support for the class and encouraged others when they fell behind. It was Harry who suggested recording some of his Dad’s songs and that is how Tumbler came to be.

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“Freedom To Cry” is about freedom from war and oppression. It’s about breaking down the walls and the barriers that keep us apart and keep us from living to the fullest a life filled with hope for another tomorrow. Wonderful meanings within this song. The lyrics are thought-provoking, real, hard core truth. The instrumentation is phenomenal and the compositions is right on.

“Freedom the cry, The freedom to fly, the freedom to live till you die, There’s only one dream Worth having she said, Only one dream she said, The dream is to live, While you are alive, And only to die when you’re dead.”

Dave Needham makes the trio the perfect threesome. His skills and talents in the studio and his years of experience in the industry make this trio unstoppable.

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Tumbler courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

The majority of the songs on this album were written at the kitchen table with family and friends and a house full of laughter. When doing things the old fashion way was still the norm. Richard says that “kitchen concerts don’t happen as often” but I think that if they keep writing and performing the way they are now there will be many more kitchen concerts and bright beginnings in their future.

~The most important music is the music you make for yourself~ Tumbler

Websites:
http://tumbler.band
http://tumblermusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/Tumbler-1629454163961830/timeline/
https://twitter.com/Tumbler_Band

Jess Wayne releases “Ride The River”

Ride The River cover courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Ride The River cover courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Jess Wayne from Los Angeles is a molten hot concoction of smooth jazz, contemporary folk, and cool blues that bring out the Americana “storytelling” of his new album “Ride The River.”

Upon first hearing the album you get a feel of solid mix in Americana music, there’s a warm and inviting mix of blues, jazz and folk, that interact within a storytelling scenario. His style would be similar to Neal Young, Van Morrison, and believe it or not possibly a little Willie Nelson.

This album vocally may not peak the interest of some young folks. Only if they have grown up on the love of true folk, true blues, and a deep love of jazz would they possibly find interest. It is like an expensive fine wine, it is an acquired taste. But it is a rich one. I love the articulation of the sounds and syllables of each word. So clear and precise with an intention….for you to get it, get the meaning. Strong lyrics, distinct and rich.

“Make It Up To You” reminds me of the early 80’s country/jazz era. Easy listening music at it’s best. It has the move groove with just a hint of blues. Makes you want to move to an easy dance move with a partner that can match your steps, step by step. Love the smooth, swaying vibe.

Jess Wayne courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Jess Wayne courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“Hold On” is exquisite with the soft hints of organ/keys. Grooving with a soulful funk feel and blending great accents of the lead and background vocals. Vocals are not too over the top and the background vocals have a nice mix.

As a whole, musically Jess Wayne presents his listeners with a smooth, cohesive collection of light rock, blues, and jazz to make up a deep and chart worth collection of old school retro Americana gold.

His outlaw appearance and soft demeanor give him that smooth talking, handsome gambler persona. His songs tell stories of real life experiences from a realistic expression that most everyone, who takes the time to really listen, will understand and relate to. He follows his own path and plays his music in his own way. Free to express and address.

Lyrically he addresses a life’s event in colorful, deep expression and what the outcome can be or might be if you face up to those undeniably real human situations. Even though he lives in a large city known for it’s outstandingly talented artists he has chosen to remain independent and doing things his own way. Not stained by big corporate high-handers who want to keep you under their thumbs and reap all the reward.

Jess Wayne courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Jess Wayne courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“All I Can Do For Now” begs us to ponder what it’s all worth and why would we even keep going if we didn’t have someone to really love? The piano is rich and inviting. It accentuates the atmosphere of the song and the message.

This collection was produced by Douglas Jessop and John Matthew Rosenberg. Material was recorded, mixed and mastered by David Peters at Oak House Recording. Formed in Los Angeles in 2015 Jess touched base with three world-class players to inquire if they would be interested in a new musical endeavor. They enjoyed the material so much they decided it was good fit. Band members include: John Matthew Rosenberg piano, keys and vocals (Carlos Santana, Bonnie Raitt, Phil Collins), Jimmy Ledezma, percussion (Wild Colonials) and Jesse Holsapple, bass and backup vocals (Dale Okerman, Tiran Porter – “Doobie Brothers”).

For more information please check out Jess Wayne at the following:

Websites:
www.jesswayne.com
www.facebook.com/jesswaynemusic
www.twitter.com/jesswaynemusic
www.instagram.com/jesswayne
www.reverbnation.com/jesswayne
www.soundcloud.com/jesswayne

Innovative and Eclectic artist Sarah Schonert releases “My Unwinding State”

Sarah Schonert cover courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Sarah Schonert cover courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Sarah is definitely unique. Her style is eclectic/electronic with a touch of classical new age. I would say she has extended the boundaries of time and space and created a mystical element of expression, not only to the instrumentation but to the lyrics and vocals.

The sounds of classical piano and the gift of a vocal virtuoso is what you’ll find here with this collection. I loved the ambient pallet and the electronic balance of each note and tone.

The layering of the vocals is genius. Her voice is exquisitely unique and recognizable. You would not mistake anyone else for Sarah. Her recent performance and win at the 2016 Women In Charg3 Music Awards for best album recognizes her accomplishments and her diversity of use with electronic and experimental instrumentation.

Schonert is a singer/songwriter from the Peoria, Illinois area who uses various combinations of ambient ebb and flow woven with a texture of layered vocals, exquisite classical piano and electronic/synth vibrations. While she is equally skilled with multiple instruments, her versatility with the old fashioned accompaniments of vintage instruments blended with the new age concepts…..works.

This is a lengthy collection with 16 tracks separated into 2 sections. Some are heavy with strong lead in with piano and some are projected to the highest level with electronic splashes of synths and keyboards.

The entire album takes me back to warm, late summer, of the evenings as the sun sets behind the trees and the light breaks through with gentle wisps of floating light. The broken quotes, remnants of verse and thoughts make up such a unique take on the vision created in each song.

Sarah Schonert courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Sarah Schonert courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“May I” is empathetic, and bold, breaking barriers and bringing the listener in to the emotions. The use of ethereal synth sounds, layering on the vocals with hints of organic electronic tones is exceptional.

This album is extra dimensional, organic, and timeless.

“Break Me Down” presents us with another great mix. It is embellished with a special recipe of singing and speaking along with the vocals layering to create a distinctive and warm texture.

“We Were Something” almost comes across with a dark and mysterious intense feeling. It lends a air of subtle majesty that sets it apart from the others.

“Shadows Don’t Listen” Eerie, almost new age beginning. Then the piano breaks and is simple yet elegant. This I would envision, just the music not the vocals, as part of a prayer ritual. The vocals seem out of place on this one. The layering of the vocals does give it a fullness but distracts from the instrumentation.

The arrangement and over all production of the album is on target for this genre. Richly done. Even though it would not fall in to my taste in music it is an exceptional collection of extreme talent. Sarah Schonert is a musical genius and I can see this collection being sought after by theater and movie executives.

Sarah Schonert courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Sarah Schonert courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

The album was produced and mastered in Peoria IL at the Sarah Schonert Music Studio. Additional credit is given to Brett David for lyrics on “We Were Something.”

All of Sarah’s work is recorded, produced and also written in her home studio. She has over 25 years of piano and vocal experience began writing and recording her own work in 1012. This is Schonerts fourth album featuring the piano as the heart of the collection and mesmerizing splashes of electronic enhancements.

For more information on Sarah you can visit the following sites: Enjoy…………..

Websites:
Official:  http://www.sarahschonertmusic.com/
Bandcamp:  http://sarahschonert.bandcamp.com/
Soundcloud:  https://soundcloud.com/sarah-schonert
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SSchonertPianoGirl/?fref=ts

Holly Montgomery with “Leaving Eden”

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

I love a strong confident female artist who knows exactly how she wants to express herself. Holly Montgomery is one of those artists. She tours across the country doing well over 150 shows a year. Her band “Big Planet” received “Best Acoustic Band” in Los Angeles from the National Academy of Songwriters. Holly played with The Mustangs, a modern country all girl band and has worked/recorded with Ice Cube. Her versatility and talent is far reaching and definitely a key component for her future endeavors in the music industry.

Title track “Leaving Eden” brought tears. But it also brought back memories of love, happy times, and truth. To me it was about a first affair of the heart. She’s Eve and he is Adam. The first man and woman and the first temptation. Because of it she’s leaving her safety and security for the unknown.

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Lyrically the album welcomes you to sing along. You’ll know all the songs by the time you reach the last one and then you’ll go back and play it again. Reminds me of the cool late summer nights cruising through Falls Church preparing to enter 10th grade. It was awesome. Just like this album.

“Drunk on the Power” and it is hot. It starts out with an eclectic texture. Like teasing your taste pallet with caviar and Jack Daniels. Oh, did I mention that Holly plays bass, guitar and piano on her album. Yep. Explains it all.

Instrumentally this album is solid. Right on the money. Great bass lines, driving lead guitar and hard hitting percussion with a dynamite ethereal piano. It’s not thin or faint but I would say full of flavor,

and fun.

Vocally Holly expresses her passion with high energy and has her own unique vocals. Her sound is distinct and different. She’s got her own style and is not afraid to let it rock out. Gritty and raw with a distinction all her own.

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Holly Montgomery, layed back, relaxed and yet full of high powered rocking energy. She’s one to watch for the fall charts and early 2017 chart lists. I can’t sit still long enough to write this review. All I want to do is dance. Dang it.

“Beyond The Veil” touched something inside me that I’ve tried to hold back lately. Especially since the loss of my mother in law. But this song was magical. It helped me to relate to so many others who have lost loved one’s. Touching and filled with intimate feelings of true emotions. This song expressed how we want to love and wonder will we ever truly know that deep love before we cross over. Powerful.

The album is not long in length but full in the depth and integrity of each song. Each song is high on the mark and could stand alone as a solid high energy single. It seems there has always been a silent test for musicians and singer/songwriters in the industry. A test of how well their music will be received and if they have what it takes to make it for the long haul. Montgomery has all of it. Her ability to cross several genres is a testament to true natural talent. She can easily cross from Rock to Pop, Country rock, soft rock, alternative pop.

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

Holly Montgomery courtesy of Independent Music Promotions

“Jumped The Gun” reminded me of Pat Bentar on the intro. Hard, determined, and raw. The songs design is psychedelic and atmospheric. Rock at it’s best.

This album was produced by Rich Isaac of Clean Cuts Studio, Baltimore and holds nine tracks. It was released on May 1st 2016 and has received outstanding reviews. She’s classy, sophisticated, and rocker all the way.

Holly has always loved music, it has always been a huge part of her life. Her inspiration is the people around her and what is authentic to life. She is the music.

Websites:
http://www.hollymontgomerymusic.com/
http://www.facebook.com/hollymontgomerymusic
www.twitter.com/mejunglegirl