Abby Holden Flipside Album Review and Giveaway!

From a rural upbringing in Tamahere, New Zealand up-and-coming singer/songwriter Abby Holden’s brand of catchy self-penned indie pop replete with frank lyricism is fast gaining her a fan-base on the vibrant London music scene.
Singing from the moment she could speak and a talented classically trained pianist from the age of six, Abby had a healthy obsession with vocals, evidenced by her love of the Phantom of the Opera album and Whitney Houston's eponymous second album. Gaining her first taste of recording in the studio at the age of 12 while singing on a charity record, Abby’s passion for a career in music was ignited, and in high school she learned the guitar - swiftly moving onto to write her own music.
In college Abby formed the band “Skyla”, which gained popularity and performed on TV with the song, “Day by Day” and received radio airplay in New Zealand and Sydney, Australia with “Believe in Me”.
Since moving to London in 2005, Abby has continued to hone the craft of song-writing, recording her debut album “Flipside” at London’s Ritz Studios, which was officially released in the U.K. on March 18, 2011. The album features re-mastered and re-recorded tracks from Abby’s ‘Skyla’ days. “Wrong Tonight” and “Believe in Me” recently went through to the finals of the U.K. Songwriting Competition 2011, while the title track “Flipside” and “Undone” made it into the semi-finals.
Abby is now receiving radio play in London from independent stations such as OnFM 101.4, Recharged Radio and Suckfree Radio; and has recently returned from a successful 10 day U.S. tour that included dates at cult venues, The Bitter End and Café Vivaldi in New York.
The fun-loving Antipodean singer is now back in the studio recording her second album, due for release early 2012.

Tracks of Flipside include:
Wrong Tonight
I'll Be With You Now
Undone
Flipside
Push the Playback
Let Go
Believe in Me
Fly Away
Step Back
I'll Be Fine


My review:
I found this entire album to be very enjoyable!  Most of the songs are really upbeat.  A couple of them (Believe in Me and Fly Away) have a more laid back slower sound.  What stands out to me in the music is how clear the instruments are.  I loved it!


Enjoy this video of the cover song, Flipside:




Disclaimer: I received a download of this album for the purpose of this review from LaFamos PR. I was not compensated in any other way and any opinions are my own. LaFamos is providing the album for the giveaway winner.

Now--on to the fun! One of my lucky blog readers will win the Flipside album. Enter easily with the rafflecopter form below.

Gina Zavalis (Self Titled) CD Review and Giveaway

Excerpts from Gina Zavalis' official bio:

A lifelong passion for music and years of singing in a variety of musical styles are behind the success of Gina Zavalis and the recent release of her debut single "In Your Eyes."

Zavalis, a well-seasoned performer, as her faithful fans can vouch, is breaking through industry barriers with the recent release of her debut single, “In Your Eyes.” Now, she is working on her solo music career with producer Doug Beiden, who has worked with artists Jennifer Paige, Michael Sweet (Stryper), Mandisa and TV shows Secret Millionaire (ABC), Suns Of Guns, Flying Wild Alaska (Discovery), Million Dollar Money Drop (FOX) Find My Family (ABC), Coming Home, Celebrity Wife Swap, Picker Sisters. Zavalis works with manager Scott McReynolds, who has developed the career of CCM artist Britt Nicole & consults for Tom Jackson. Zavalis is also collaborating with Los Angeles composer/orchestrator/conductor Bob Barrett, who orchestrates projects for Disney and has scored films such as GARBO IN HOLLYWOOD & ALL OF ME: The Billie Holiday Lester Young Encounters. Barrett has arranged for Diana Ross, Pat Benatar, Joe Cocker, Bill Medley, Chita Rivera, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations & Maureen McGovern.  Zavalis is traveling between New York City, Nashville and Los Angeles to record a number of new songs. Zavalis is also signed with LaFamos PR and Branding in Hollywood.


In a nationally televised event at Yankee Stadium to a sold out crowd, Zavalis sang the National Anthem. Tom Seaver is quoted as saying, “Wow, what a voice, that’s the best we heard all year!”

Zavalis’ self-titled EP is filled with heartfelt lyrics, alongside her intriguing sound and dynamic, powerhouse vocals showcasing her three + octave range. Zavalis is already being compared to Sarah Brightman, Celine Dion, Barbra Streisand and Adele.

My review:
Gina Zavalis' self titled album contains just 5 songs:
In Your Eyes
Reach for Me
I am Here
Waiting
As I Give My Heart

I find the music to be what I call easy listening.  The tunes are laid back and mellow.  
She has a wonderful singing voice.  Her tones seemed to be just perfect to my ears.

You can find Gina Zavalis at all of these websites:
MySpace
Facebook
Twitter
Her Official Website
Reverbnation

Would like a chance to win Gina Zavalis' self titled debut album?  Just enter using the rafflecopter form below.  

Disclaimer:  I received the album download from LaFamos and information page for the purpose of this review.  LaFamos is supplying the physical CD for the winner of the giveaway.  I was not compensated in any other way and all opinions are my own.  

Andi Starr's The World Will Follow Album Review and Giveaway

Starr’s sixth album, the much anticipated “The World Will Follow,” is her most electrifying to date. Starr’s trademark beautiful haunting vocals, poetic lyrics, flat-picking guitar playing and moving piano pieces are backed by the electric and lap steel guitar work of seasoned player/producer Jesse Seibenberg (of Supertramp) and by the synth guitars of engineer/producer Jordan Richter (Sixpence None the Richer, Jars of Clay). For several months, the first single, “Little Bird,” sat at the top of the ReverbNation charts for California.

Over a decade and six albums later, the resulting music reflects not only the ambiance and dynamics of her classical upbringing but has garnered comparisons to The Cranberries, Joni Mitchell, and Tori Amos. As a traveler of the inner world, Starr’s particular gift is in turning difficult subject matter into heartfelt, sometimes haunting, and always beautiful compositions. Culturespill Magazine states: “Andi Starr hits the right notes: the notes that hurt, the notes that know you, the notes that make you meet yourself.”

Album Tracks:

	The World Will Follow
	Little Bird
	Already Gold
	A Song that Never Dies
	Delilah's Response
	el amore (Song for Sylvia)
	Fake Plastic Trees
	Ticket Taker
	Happy Ballad
	The World Will Follow (acoustic version)
	Water Rising

 

When I first listened to this album my first thought was this would be good music to sit and relax to at home--alone or with company.  To me, the songs are ballads.


Enjoy this video of Already Gold:


I enjoyed listening to the album again and again.

Enter below for your chance to win a copy of The World Will Follow by Andi Starr.

Disclaimer:  I was sent the downloadable album courtesy of LaFamos for the purpose of this review.  LaFamos has graciously offered to send a hard copy of the album to one lucky reader of my blog.

Sir Castanon Puppeteer Album Review and Giveaway!

Official Bio:

From the moment he steps on stage, it’s clear that Sir Castanon is not the typical young pop artist.

Inspired by the unapologetic avant garde of Lady Gaga and the showmanship of Adam Lambert, Sir Castanon feels strongly about having the element of theater in his music. Originally from Denver, CO, the 14 year-old performer began his professional music career at age 11, writing songs and developing his dramatic image. In addition to his songwriting skills and vocal prowess, he also personally designs his own stage attire stage attire.

As he puts it, “Anybody can be a singer if they wanted to, but I try my best to be a true artist.”

On his debut album Puppeteer, released in December 2010, Sir Castanon showcases his keen dance-pop sensibilities on such standouts as “Chandelier” and title track, which is also the lead single and video. “Puppeteer” was also nominated for Pop Single of the Year at the 2011 LA Music Awards, and Sir Castanon himself is a nominee for Pop Artist of the Year.

Sir Castanon now calls Los Angeles home and divides his time between music and his successful acting career. He starred in the hit comedy Click alongside Adam Sandler, and he has extensive TV credits, including NCIS, ER and Crossing Jordan. His performances in Ghost Whisperer as well as Comanche Moon with Val Kilmer earned him two coveted Young Artist Awards.

In spring 2011, Sir Castanon joined forces with over 40 teen celebrities to record "If the Earth Could Speak,” raising funds to aid the children of Japan. The music video was directed by "We Are the World" Grammy winning director, Tom Trbvovich. The song was written and produced by multi-platinum music producers Drew Lane and Evelyn Vaccaro.

Combining undeniable pop hooks with a flair for the dramatic, Sir Castanon is nothing short of a household name in the making.

To follow his journey, please visit – www.sircastanon.com


Song titles on the Puppeteer album include:
Chandelier
Shadow Dancing
Puppeteer
Cry Baby
You Got It
Graduate
Make My Day
Let Go
Neon and
Ghost

My review:
I was surprised after listening to some of the songs to find out that Sir Castanon is just 14 yrs old. And barely too as he just turned 14 in August. I was also surprised to read about all of his acting roles on various tv shows.

I really enjoyed the pop music on this cd. I can't even pick out a favorite song. They all have good beats to them. I see him as a rising star for sure.

I have a daughter who will be 15 next month. I pulled her in to the room to listen to the songs. She says they are ok, and some of them she really did like like You Got It and Make My Day. She tells me a lot of her friends are in to this type of music.

Check out this video of Shadow Dancing:




Disclaimer: LaFamos PR send me a download of the album for the purpose of my review. I was not compensated in any other way for the review. Any opinions given are my own. LaFamos is providing the winner of the giveaway with a physical copy of the CD.

Now enter for your chance to win!

Darius Lux--Time is Now Album Review and Giveaway

Darius Lux's official website states that his music is soulful, thoughtful, rockin', urban, and pop. I can see all of this in the 6 songs on his album Time is Now.

The 6 songs include:
No Problem
Way That It Goes
Best Day
What I Feel
Time is Now and
World Keeps on Turnin' Live

If I have to pick a favorite of the six I will choose World Keep on Turnin', but all of them have a good beat and are enjoyable to listen to.

If you live in the Los Angeles area you can RSVP for a free live show on Sept. 30, 2011 at the Good Hurt Club. They will also be performing in Northern California on October 2, 2011 at the Castro Street fair at 2 pm on the Red Rock stage.

Check out their first music video ever--"Best Day" (I love this video!)



Enter below for your chance to win the album!!

Disclaimer: I was sent the digital download of the album from LaFamos for the purpose of my review. I was not compensated in any other way, all opinions are my own. LaFamos is providing the album to be given to the winner.

Amy Heffernan--Friggin Little Know It All Album Review and Giveaway!

Friggin Little Know It All is Amy Heffernan's 2nd album, released May 3, 2011.

Raised in Alberta, Canada, Amy Heffernan never doubted that music is what she was born to do.

Friggin Little Know It All is a pop/rock album that features everything from party anthems to upbeat love confessions.

Tracklist:
1. Ignorant Pig
2. Friggin Little Know It All
3. Perfect
4. Being Awesome
5. Crap
6. I Do
7. Dance Ourselves Sober
8. Knowing
9. Creepin Me Out
10. Rasputan Feat Jeremy Ray

I enjoy the beat and rhythm of all the songs on the album. I find Perfect to be my favorite.

You can find Amy Heffernan at:
Myspace
Facebook Fan Page
Youtube Channel
Her Website
Twitter

Please enjoy this youtube video of Perfect before entering the giveaway.

Now, on to the giveaway!

Giveaway starts Saturday May 28, 2011 and ends Saturday June 11, 2010 at 9 pm CST.
Open to U.S. Residents
Leave one comment per entry, making sure at least one of them has your contact email.
Winner will be drawn using random.org.
Winner will have 48 hours to respond or another winner will be chosen.

Way to enter:

1. Visit one of the websites listed above the video and come back and tell me which one, and maybe something you read or learned while you were there.

2. Connect with me through google friend connect.

3. Subscribe to my blog by email.

4. Share this giveaway on your blog, on twitter, on facebook, in gather, or any other place that acceptable. This can be done up to 4 times for the duration of the giveaway for a total possible 4 entries.

5. Participate in my Frugal Friday's linky, Squidoo Blog Hopping Linky, or share a giveaway in my Ongoing Giveaways linky page. One entry for each that you do, so possible 3 entries total.

Good luck to all!

Disclaimer: I was sent a download of the album for my review by LaFamos PR. They also provided me with the album to be used in this giveaway. I was not compensated for this review and all opinions are my own.

Amanda Lamb Highwire Album Review and Giveaway!

 

I was sent Amanda Lamb's album Highwire through LaFamos PR to review.  One lucky winner will receive their own copy of the album.  See the giveaway at the bottom of my post.

Highwire is Amanda Lamb's debut album.  It was released November 5, 2010.

Amanda started singing in choirs at the age of 5 and playing the piano at the age of 56.  She began finding her own voice at the age of 12 and began formal vocal training at the age of 14.  At the age of 16, the album Highwire was released.

The genre is pop, which she embraces while infusing her songs with genuine emotion and unexpected metaphors.

Song List:

1. Kiss Me Now

2.  Lave Hate

3.  Infinity

4.  Fallen

5.  The Life of an Aerialist

6.  Hypnosis

7.  I'll Be Your Moonlight

8.  Banish Love

9.  Funny Disaster

10.  Don't Get Me Wrong

Don't Get Me Wrong is my personal favorite on the album.  Listening to the album, I never would have guessed Amanda to just be 16 years old.  Not only by listening to the lyrics of the songs, but also listening to her voice.   This is a really nice album!

You can find Amanda all over the web:

Facebook 

Twitter

Myspace

and

Amanda Lamb's Website

Enjoy this Youtube video and links before heading to the giveaway.

 

Now on to the giveaway!  One lucky blog reader will win a copy of Amanda Lamb's Highwire.

Giveaway open to U.S. Residents only.

Giveaway starts Tuesday May 18, 2011 and ends Tuesday May 31, 2010 at 8 pm CST.

Winner will be drawn using random.org.

Winner will have 48 hours to contact me or another winner will be chosen.

Leave a separate comment for each entry.

Ways to enter:

1.  Follow my blog by google friend connect.

2.  Subscribe to my blog by email.

3.  "like" Marsha's Spot on facebook

4.  Friend me on facebook

5.  Follow me on twitter

6.  Follow me on networked blogs

7.  Join my blog frog community

8.  Vote for me on the fence

9.  Place my button on your website--leave URL where it can be found. (3 entries)

10.  Post about this giveaway on twitter, facebook, gather, your own blog, or anywhere else where it is allowed. (This can be done daily for one entry per day at the site of your choice)

Good luck!!

Disclaimer:  LaFamos PR sent me the album via download for the purpose of my review as well as the album to be used for the prize.  I was not compensated for this review.

Sunday Lane--Bring Me Sunshine Album Review

Sunday Lane is a 20-yr-old Tulsa, OK native.  She isn't your typical singer/songwriter.  A classically trained pianist, she is currently attending the Musician's Institute in Hollywood.  She writes articulate lyrics about social injustices in our society, young love, and growing up.

I encourage you to check out her website at http://www.SundayLane.com.  On her website you will find tour dates, lyrics to her songs, videos and photos.  You will also find links to other sites you will find her online like myspace, twitter, and facebook.

Sunday Lane's album, Bring Me Sunshine was released in August of 2010.
The album contains 6 tracks:
1.  How Long It Takes
2.  A Little Hope
3.  Won't Go Back Down
4.  Heavy Heart, Heavy Hands
5.  Lack of Color
6.  Reckless One

I really enjoy listening to this album.  The music, and the lyrics are alive.  I can't pick a favorite from the album.  My 14 yr old, each time we listen to it, skips first to track 4--Heavy Heart, Heavy Hands.   Actually, the lyrics to this song stuck out to both of us.

I hope you enjoy this video share:

 



Disclaimer: I received this album from Lafamos PR for the purpose of this review. I was not compensated otherwise for this review and all opinions are my own.

diSanto The Beginning Album Review

Taken from my promo sheet:(excerpts)
diSanto commands attention everywhere he goes.  All eyes are captivated by him and everyone wants to know who he is.  diSantos voice is filled with a passion we have not heard from young male singers in years.

diSanto was born in a small town in Puerto Rico and from a young age he knew he wanted to be an entertainer.  He attended Castholic school and sang in the church choir at the age of 8.  He became the lead singer of the choir.

At the age of 17 diSanto received a dance scholarship at Broadway Dance Center and moved to New York City.  After attending Berklee College of Music, he moved to Miami.  diSanto has been cast in musicals like "Rent" and "Footloose".

diSanto's current album is The Beginning.  The album is fueled by heavy dance tracks and popping electronic beats.  The Beginning draws you into a world of flirtation, pleasure and carnality.  The songs blend both English and sexy Spanish lyrics to tell a store of a man who  is ready to share his innermost feelings and desires.

You can find a list of his current tour dates at http://www.IamdiSanto.com

My review:
Right away I enjoyed the beat of the music!  It's upbeat and enjoyable.  Easy to groove to this music and lighten your mood.

Track 1 in just 34 seconds long and acts as an introduction.  It goes straight in to track 2 with no pauses.

It's hard for me to pick what would be my favorite song on the CD as I enjoy the beat of all of them.  If I have to choose then I choose track 6: Sanctified.

I hope you enjoy this youtube video of Sanctified.



You can also find the album available on itunes!
 

Disclaimer:  I received a copy of this CD from LaFamos PR & Branding for the purpose of this review.  I was not compensated for my opinions in any other way.  LaFamos provided me with the promo sheet for information.