Otis Taylor

Otis Taylor, named “one of the most impressive bluesman working today” by the New York Times, has recently come out with a new album, Double V. This is a follow up to his latest and highly praised CD, Truth is Not Fiction.

Otis’s latest work combines cello, guitar, banjo and even a little harmonica. His warm and energetic voice resonates with a soulful feeling that can’t help but capture the listener.

He seems to be sending deep and powerful messages through his lyrics and urging vocals. It is creative and innovative, a break from the blues we all might expect.

Taylor describes Double V as symbolic of the civil rights movement, which adds feeling and power to the lyrics.

Whether you gather that or not, as a listener you will notice the distinct father-daughter bonds apparent throughout. Taylor’s talented and spirited 17-year-old daughter, Cassie, helped create his latest work and even has a solo track on the CD, probably the best on the whole album.

From Bubblegum to Sky

From Bubblegum to Sky’s newest record, Nothing Sadder Than Lonely Queen is one of the most bizarre albums I have heard in awhile.

From Bubblegum to Sky sounds like a little Beatles mixed with a little modern pop.

Ennie Meenie Records calls the album a “summer vacation trip” or resembling the sounds of those heard on a Caribbean island.

I have to agree; the record is perfect for summertime with its lighthearted tone and true-to-heart lyrics.

You will think of sunshine, and maybe a little 50s summertime heat. With its upbeat style of music, you will find it impossible not to be happy.

Bubblegum to Sky is the pseudonym for Mario Hernandez. The name derives from his two diverse backgrounds, Hispanic and Japanese.

Mario feels that the music helps him explore and combine the two ethnicities, commenting, “I like that juxtaposition of extremes.”

Toby Lightman

Look out world-a star is born. Toby Lightman’s new CD titled Little Things is a modern musical masterpiece.

This girl can sing, play an instrument and write interesting and personal lyrics.

The music is the ultimate mixing of genres.

She takes the traditional singer/song writer sound and fuses it with hip-hop, funk, jazz and other distinct genres.

The result is music that is unique and just plain good.

In the song, “Come Backing,” she sings “I am singing the words that I do not have the strength to say” over a funky melody. Her lyrics are personal without being maudlin.

Another highlight of this CD is track six called “Voices,” which has an instrumental section that is reminiscent of Jimi Hendrix, while still being uniquely Lightman.

This album has not left my CD player since I received it.

I give this remarkable CD two very enthusiastic thumbs up.

Charlotte Martin

Musicianship is back on the rise with the technically immaculate album by Charlotte Martin.

The album showcases her vocal and piano talent. The melodies are rich and complex. Her piano playing is well highlighted by the occasional use of strings.

However, Martin has not found her own voice. And the angst is actually palpable.

Her music sounds almost identical to that of Tori Amos. In fact, track No. 4 “Every Time It Rains” might as well be Amos.

The songs are all basically the same with little variation in tempo. Track No. 2 titled “Limits of Our Love” is the fastest song on the album and will not make anyone get up and dance.

However, the musicianship is undeniable and it is no chore to listen to this CD.

It will be a great addition to the song titled “Getting Over a Break-up” music. I give it one thumb up.