Tag Archives: influences

Russ Carrick delivers a signature combination of bright power pop hooks and dingy alternative textures. Strongly influenced by 80s and 90s indie rock, the Philadelphia-based singer/songwriter has successfully implemented this formula into two albums, the most recent being Tense Present, which saw release back in early October. I caught up …

After a five-year lapse, Deuce has returned. His upcoming sophomore solo album, Invincible, sees release on December 1st, and features a tightly-strewn, revitalized blend of rock riffs atop a hip hop foundation. Since starting anew with TAG Publicity through his label, Better Noise Records, the Los Angeles-bred, Portland-based rapper deemed …

Castle Black’s dense riff sequences and contrasting harmonic structures prove a competent force to take in. Based out of Brooklyn, New York, the alt rock trio comprises vocalist/guitarist Leigh Celent, bassist Lisa Low and drummer Matthew Bronner. In a relatively short span, they have already received critical acclaim from such …

After a lapse of non-musical endeavors, veteran New Jersey guitarist Kenny Dubman released his debut solo album, Reckless Abandon. The album effectively channels Dubman’s roots—a hearty amalgamation of 70s-tinged hard rock—while celebrating his newfound inspiration. Its presentation comes off as a rarity in today’s modern rock climate, a majority of …

In 1981, Culture Club created a sound unifying the exotic and contemporary. Their presentation of reggae, blue-eyed soul, and dance elements, along with the visceral androgyny of front man Boy George, catapulted them to stardom just a year after forming. International chart toppers such as “I’ll Tumble 4 Ya,” “Time …