What Ronnie says:
Lane Norberg's album, Coming to Life is uplifting and enjoyable from start to finish. Songs like That Old House and Amargosa (which won the 2020 Local Roots Music NW Songwriting Contest) showcase his talent not just as a songwriter, but also as a storyteller. Fans of Mat Kearny, Sarah Bareilles, and James Taylor will enjoy Lane's warm voice and lovely songwriting.
What Robert says:
It’s no surprise Lane Norberg’s new album Coming To Life is truly a continuation of what we already knew when we first heard his music. He is a gifted singer/songwriter who keeps turning out amazing music. His easy going style and passionate delivery comes through solidly on this album. His music is thoughtful and inspiring and definitely showcases his exceptional talent.
Sept 2021 Album of the Month:
Lane Norberg "Coming to Life"
July 2021 Album of the Month:
David Barber "Passionately"
What Robert says:
Portland’s David Barber’s album “Passionately” showcases his talent with a well written and produced gem drawing inspiration from both hip hop and jazz influences. His descriptive phrasing is exceptional and the jazz influenced arrangements supported by superb local musicians work well with his inspired vocal presentation. It’s a good listen!
What Ronnie says:
David Barber’s Passionately is uniquely enjoyable listen from top to bottom, with smooth lyrical storytelling, stunning guests, and nice balance of open free jazz and hard hitting hip-hop among other influences. Each song is its own thought-provoking journey, but they work together to make one impressively cohesive piece.
June 2021 Album of the Month:
Hannah Glavor "So Far, So Long"
What Robert says:
Hannah Glavor is a talented singer/songwriter and her debut release So Far, So Long showcases her impressive skills as an emerging artist. Her songs come to life in full color and her energy and catchy lyrics along with outstanding production make for a great listen. A pleasant surprise.
What Ronnie says:
So Far, So Long features a robust musical soundscape reminiscent of the Wall of Sound, with a dose of modern indie rock that echos favorite contemporaries like Broken Social Scene and Maggie Rogers. The album is a thoroughly enjoyable listen, from the energetic opening track Get It Let It Go to the heart-wrenching swell of Storm on the Rise, on through to the inspiring finale Afterglow.
May 2021 Album of the Month:
Fox & Bones "American Alchemy"
What Robert says:
Inspired lyrics, catchy melodies with timely topics and themes make up “American Alchemy” the latest release from NW Duo Fox & Bones. You’ll find their songwriting comes alive with their voices blending together to make it truly an awesome listening experience from start to finish. With years of touring both nationally and internationally their talent and energy are in full bloom on this album.
What Ronnie says:
The new Fox & Bones album "American Alchemy" is aptly named. It showcases the chemistry between Sarah Vitort and Scott Gilmore (the songwriters behind the Fox & Bones persona) in a perfect concoction of their vast variety of influences. With gospel choir harmonies and boisterous horn sections, energetic melodies, and tender, heartfelt, and sometimes humorous lyrics, the true talent of this duo really shines through American Alchemy.