Search this site

The New York-based multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter’s latest release channels his diverse skills to bring us a fresh and nostalgic project. Ozzy Osbourne once said, “I'm into rock 'n' roll because rock 'n' roll, to me, means freedom.” JShell would probably agree; the New York-based singer-songwriter approaches his music with a curious energy that seems like he’s having fun. JShell, who counts acts such as Genesis, Rush, Queen, The Beatles, and Iron Maiden (among others) as key influences to his music, approaches his projects with creativity and passion that could only come from an artist who loves what they do. His latest project, an audio and visual rock album titled “In My Head,” further underscores his passion. Composed of fifteen tracks, “In My Head” is an immersive project in which JShell arranged himself while playing all the drums, bass guitar, and keyboards while contributing heavily to other areas. Each track will have an accompanying video, and further underlining his artistic genius and versatility, each video was written, produced, and directed by JShell himself. “You Do You” is a deliciously exciting taste of what’s to come for 'In My Head.' Over piano-backed instrumentals backed with an infectiously catchy electric guitar performance courtesy of Steve Hackett, JShell spits life wisdom in a carefree, rock-and-roll way that only he can (“No regrets but it’s true / Hard to say but it’s true / You Do you”). Expertly mastered by Grammy Award-winning Randy Merrill of Sterling Sound, “You do you” is JShell at his best: focused, completely in sync with Merill, and in the groove. Sometimes, things don’t work out how we want them to in relationships and life. Although it might hurt, there’s no shame in letting go and doing what’s best for you. Sometimes, you have to do you. Tap in and stream “You Do You” Ft. Steve Hackett is available on January 29th, and keep an eye out for 'In My Head' on February 14th. Welcome to BuzzMusic JShell. We have to say we loved “You Do You” it felt nostalgic in all the right ways, and you and Steve absolutely killed it. We have to ask, what was the inspiration behind “You do You,” and how did you know you wanted Steve on this track in particular? Thank you, and yes, I agree; Steve absolutely killed it. The song is actually one of a few tracks on the album about a relationship ending and the participants going their separate ways, which I'm guessing most people have experience with. Most of the album is high-energy rock, so I was looking to do a melancholy thing to balance it out that would incorporate sounds reminiscent of '70s prog rock, especially those of my favorite band Genesis. I had given Steve - who I have come to know as one of the nicest and most gracious people I have ever met - a choice of a few tracks to do his thing, and he chose "You Do You," which led me to really embrace the prog-rock sounds on the track. So your audio-visual album 'In My Head' drops on February 14th (was that intentional?). How does it feel seeing this project come to life, and what was your favorite part about making it come to life? It was not intentional, but I did want to release it in the early months of the year when people, in theory, have more time to pay attention after the holidays. Seeing this project come to life feels like I built a house. It's extremely gratifying as it's the most work I have ever done on anything, and it took a lot of time. In addition to having made it to the end of a journey where I had to put one foot in front of the other and believe it would get done, my favorite part about making 'In My Head' is a combination of having people very close to me be a part of the project and believing that I did my father, who passed away in 2015, proud. So you’re based in New York, which obviously has a rich musical history. How has the city influenced your growth and identity as an artist? I cannot emphasize enough the effect living in New York has had on my growth and identity as an artist. For example, I have two instrumentals on the album, 'Big Apple Boogie' and 'Big Apple Boogie (Reprise).' With these tracks, I wanted to convey the energy I feel while walking around New York City. Also, when you live in New York City, there is sensory overload everywhere you go, so you have to stay sharp, and as a result, my mind is constantly working. This was extremely helpful as walking to and from the studio from where I live, I would constantly get musical and lyrical ideas, including the album title! What kind of message or feeling do you want fans to take away from your music? Simply put, I want fans to know that the music I am putting out is never boring. It's high energy with a lot going on, and I'm hoping fans can appreciate that there isn't a single note or beat wasted. Everything you hear is designed to give you a kick in your step. What’s next for JShell? Obviously, having your album rollout is huge. Are there any other goals you want to achieve in 2023? I want what everyone wants: fortune and glory!! But the main goal is I want the album to do well enough that it makes sense to do another. Instagram TikTok

Born in Mexico City and of Mexican and Swiss descent, Sol Romero is an actress and international recording artist. She began singing at 13 and had her first brush with the entertainment industry when she fortuitously found her way onto the set of the Robert Rodriguez film, Once Upon a Time in Mexico. Sol Romero became an instant sensation in Switzerland when she released her hit single "Turn It Up" in 2015, followed immediately by the release of "Money Makes the World Go Round," featuring renowned Moroccan-American rapper French Montana. Sol Romero is vividly radiant in her latest single release, "Te Quiero Asi," - where she joins forces with renowned producer Humbert Gatica, best known for his work with Celine Dion, Chicago, Michael Jackson, Barbra Streisand, Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban, and Michael Bublé. Constructing a passion-fueled atmosphere that dances in a liberating light of desire, the romantic essence of "Te Quiero Asi" is breathtaking. Originally written by Juan Carlos Calderón, we're treated to a poignant vocal performance with Sol Romero sharing the spotlight with the talented Pablo Montero. A profound energy pours from this record as the two adoringly profess nuances of love in its purest form. This power ballad emphasizes the romance in the Spanish language as it ignites a grand and passionate dynamism. With the song's theme touching on loving someone for the way they are, this duo excels at bringing this concept to life. Between each harmony, the force of the duality is expressed in a rather uncanny manner, and you can't help but breathe it in. "Te Quiero Asi" has you feeling the life within yourself being brought to the forefront as you bask in the sparkle of this record. Shedding warmth and sincerity, Sol Romero drives a brilliant effervescence home. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Sol Romero. We adore this new release from you as it focuses on your extensive vocal range and the emotions you share with Pablo Montero. What was it like working with him and Humberto Gatica to bring this song to life? It was so fun working with them both. To be honest, I’ve always dreamed of working with Humberto. He’s such an amazing producer. And in terms of Pablo Montero. I mean, it’s Pablo Montero! Need I say more? I was honored. It was a beautiful experience. In your own words, what does "Te Quiero Asi" mean to you? For me, it’s about having so much love for someone who’s hurt, someone who is obsessed, someone who can’t get enough, someone who is sad and insecure but at the same time excited and crazy. I think it’s about having one true love and not letting go no matter what. I guess that’s what it means to me. Being a multifaceted individual, what differences do you find in the creative process between acting and music? That’s tough. They’re very different. I feel that singing is more work than acting, in a way. With acting, I feel like you either have it or not. Of course, you could be an excellent singer but not quite as good of an actress, and vice versa. Also, with acting, you have a director who lets you know exactly what he wants. Whereas with singing, I think it’s something coming more from your heart and how you express your emotions. I don’t know. Maybe they’re both difficult in their own way [laughs]. How does "Te Quiero Asi" compare to other songs heard in your music catalog? Please shine a light on the creative process of creating this song. This song really means a lot to me. I feel like it’s talking about my life in a way. You know, I love to love. And to feel love is everything, really, which makes letting go scary and difficult. Because what if it never came back? What if you never found love again? And maybe you’re not the one for that person, but maybe he is the right one for you. I think it can get complicated. Love is great when it’s great but can be rough when it’s not. It’s hard and sad and exciting all at the same time! What's next for you? Lots of music. I’m working on a lot of new songs this year! Instagram Artist Website

Montreal's Simply Brick's new ballad has everyone captivated! The dream-alt-two-piece expresses their undeniable talent all throughout their new release, "Simply Brick." The 2020 formed duo consists of Ariel Bouchard on guitar, and Corrina Fisches on Bass, and Vocals, who created their versatility through dreamy sounds and alternative esque. Simply Brick released their fresh, new single titled "TY&A," a passionate and sweet record, the epitome of their dreamy sound. "TY&A" sounds like a daydream; what more could we ask for from the Montreal prodigies? The record takes you somewhere special with its spacious guitar sounds, leaving you in awe of its in-depth and heartfelt lyricism—the soundscape and lush percussion compliment Corrina's vocals beautifully, delivering their raw emotion effortlessly. Simply Brick's creative ways of expressing relatable lyrics draw you into the perfect listening experience. In their recent interview with BuzzMusic, we asked Simply Brick how "TY&A" contrasts with their previous releases, and they mentioned that "...it is our first ballad and has the most vocal layers we have ever done. Corrina spent hours in the studio harmonizing and underlining certain words; if you listen carefully, you can hear all the different layers." Simply Bricks explains the impact they would like the listener to experience the purest form of love. Whether it be to someone emotionally or just family and friends, "the melancholic emotion in this song represents how temporary, transient moments we will have with the people we love." Check out the full song review and interview for their new dreamy single "TY&A" here. Facebook Instagram

Straight out of Detroit, MI., Odd City is comprised of Mike Szumlinski (vocals, lead guitar), Mike Kap (bass, vocals), Pavel Guysinsky (rhythm guitar), and Brett Redwood (drums). Together, they complement each other with their unique melodies and memorable lyrics. Keeping themselves busy with the performance aspect of their careers, they've also brought into stride the creation of their latest hard-hitting single, "Particles. Offering up a looking glass into the hard work and passion that they place into their artistry, this single zones in on an essential message as the band exudes their all-star craftsmanship and personable tenancies. As undeniable force headlines through the speakers and the chugging guitar ostinatos of Odd City take us into an amplified atmosphere, it quickly becomes apparent that their whole-hearted messaging is met with firmness to encapsulate an environment reflective of their demeanor. Recorded at the legendary Pearl Sound Studios with production wizard Chuck Alkazian, Odd City imposes a memo surrounding the low bouts of depression, sadness, or failure that people unknowingly get wrapped into when they lose control of their happiness. Through tight drum patterns, a weighty bassline, and sizzling guitar riffs, this musical bed surges with charisma and intensity to create a brilliant foundation for the empowering and passion-fueled vocals of Mike Szumlinski. Bringing this sonic letter to the foreground in a fashion that spearheads urgency and a sound specific to Odd City – we appreciate the divine narrative unveiled in "Particle." Listen to "Particle" from Odd City's album 'Fission' on all streaming platforms. Welcome back to BuzzMusic, Odd City! We love the message you send out in your latest energetic single, "Particles.” Regarding the song's meaning, Brett Redwood has said, "unknowing participants [in life's lows] can feel much like a particle in the water cycle." That's such a profound insight. What stemmed from this thought and the action to create a song about it? Brett Redwood: I had no plans to write these lyrics. Sometimes a life lesson catches you. I wouldn’t guess what I would write about. It just came together. After it’s done, you learn something about yourself that you may have missed or overlooked. Mike Szumlinski: Chuck is a beautiful mix of no bullshit and pure bullshit. What that means is the energy is high and frenetic. When it is time to go, you GO. There are a few notes I hit vocally in this one that is pretty high in my range and…well…I’m not exactly flawless at it. Chuck heard my voice cracking before I felt it, shoved me into a corner, and told me not to say a word. He then proceeded to Dr. Evil “zip it” to me for 30 minutes if I did anything other than breath. All while soothing us with tales of rock stars of yore that walked the hallowed halls of Pearl Sound. The ultimate outcome was a pretty damn good vocal recording. When creating this record, we can only imagine the energy surging through the four walls at Pearl Sound Studios. Please share a glimpse into the process you endured and what it was like working with Chuck Alkazian. Brett Redwood: The recording process felt like a blur. By the end of doing drums, I didn’t know up from down. We did all the drums in one day. I was in great hands with Chuck because I was unsure if I did well. Chuck really listened to my vision of the lyrics and worked well with the other guys. Chuck is great. Do you think more artists should speak on mental health and the struggles of life? Why? Brett Redwood: I learned some time ago that all topics are on the table. Some of my favorite artists have shown me that. Everything can be done well or poorly. I would say if that’s the topic you personally need to write about, then do it. It seems now more than ever to be a hot topic. The audience doesn’t need anything just for the sake of it. They need good songs to get behind. Even songs that have nothing to do with mental health can help people with their mental health. Give them your best. Mike Szumlinski: As someone who has struggled with mental health recently, I think honesty is the only important part. Emotions should be felt, and sometimes in music that comes across with trite phrases like “speaking your truth.” But the reality is that suppressing those emotions is the root cause in many cases of the problem. Music allows us to speak to that en masse without necessarily being direct. But then you see the explosion of things like Hi Ren and realize that being a bit less furtive about how you say things resonates as well. This dude writes a 9-minute song where he’s just sitting in a chair playing a nylon string classical guitar and being pretty overt about it all. It clearly resonated. Coming from your album, 'Fission,' what makes "Particles” such a stand-out record to the lot of you? Mike Szumlinski: It is probably the second-highest-energy song on the album, but even with its odd time signature switches, it falls into more of a groove than the very in-your-face approach we took with Split. It’s one of the oldest songs the band wrote and still is interesting all these years later. If it is fun for us still, it is probably more fun for you too. Brett Redwood: 'Particles' feels like the go-to song for this band. It’s a song we always crush. It’s easy to play, has a good tempo for us, and is fun to play. What can you tell us about the other songs heard on 'Fission?' What is the album's concept, and how do you feel it aligns with you? Brett Redwood: I called it 'Fission' because I was listening to all the songs and looking for the most prominent thread. It seems like the separation of two things was the most common theme in the songs. That idea manifested in a couple of different ways, so I went with it. The rest of the guys approved, which was awesome because, in the end, I’m the drummer, and these guys gave me a lot of support and a lot of rope to write lyrics and humor my vision. I’m a very lucky drummer. I appreciate them very much. Mike Szumlinski: While there isn’t a lyrical narrative going on, I think there is a bit of a sonic narrative. This album definitely bangs you back and forth against the walls with the switches in time. We go from aggressive to smooth, from straight time to odd changes every few measures. It speaks to that dichotomy of where our minds tell us they want to be - somewhere safe, but then gives us a bit of what is actually good for us - challenging ourselves. Instagram Facebook

The award-winning film, television, and stage composer Mathieu Karsenti is a true artist and musical visionary of modern sonic landscapes. With each piece of work released, he uses the art of visualization to approach the music as a painter who oversees every aspect of his career without concession. In addition, part of his compositions includes outstanding solo performances in which he showcases his distinctive croons. Allowing "Tōji - 冬至 - (part I & II)" to be an evocative conveyance of his artistic abilities, Mathieu Karsenti offers listeners the chance to dip into his dynamic world. Through an amalgamation of instrumental harmonies that set a rather meditative atmosphere, a deluxe infusion of worlds is brought through the speakers as this philosophical ballad reflects the winter solstice. Instilling moments of cathartic relief as you're toured through myriad emotions, Mathieu Karsenti molds the prolific soundscapes to unravel an extensive truth perceptive to the listener. Each note bends in the direction Karsenti flexes his canvas. Glimmers of potent strings navigate through a spectrum of instruments as we're privy to sustaining guitar riffs, warm basslines, and profound violin crescendos that swell in intensity and embed themselves amongst capacious sound effects. Although bold and triumphant in nature, this entire composition paints imagery reflective of delicate transitions. Taking place mid-winter in Japan, Karsenti aims for the listener to focus on images of short days and long nights in Hokkaido. This year's end represents a symbolic death of what was just endured over the curse of the previous seasons yet aims at the hopefulness of rebirth as new adventures are soon to make way. As "Tōji - 冬至 - (part I & II)" ends, Karsenti's mission is complete as what's been gathered leaves a lasting impression. Grateful for the chance to peer through his artistic lens, we encourage all listeners to get lost in the mounting sounds of "Tōji - 冬至 - (part I & II)." Welcome to BuzzMusic, Mathie Karsenti! Congratulations on releasing "Tōji - 冬至 - (part I & II)." We thoroughly enjoyed every moment that this sonic landscape brought to the speakers. What inspired you to bring such a thought-out concept to life? During my first Xmas in LA in 2022, I played around with an electric guitar and some live string samples I had from previous recordings. Quickly, I had the basic structure for a sonic landscape that felt evocative of winter, with its melancholic and personal moments of reflection. I’m a fan of Japanese culture, Anime, films, and Japanese art, and I had in my head an image of snowy landscapes in beautiful Hokkaido, Northern Japan, where the sun is low, the days are short, the nights are long, and we leave the year behind. The winter solstice, or Tōji, is a time to reflect and greet the new year ahead. Through the intricate details that make up this whole notion, how long did it take for you to create a masterpiece as such? Everything happened very quickly. I’m used to writing music pretty fast because of tight deadlines in film and TV, and this one flowed very easily. I’m playing the guitar loosely here because I didn’t want a chordal structure to define everything - I wanted fragments and bits of melodies to develop and ebb away like old thoughts we discard as we move onto new things. The strings evolve similarly, allowing me to create a progression, a type of musical journey without committing to one idea, a bigger landscape that incorporates many different elements. In the end, I had two separate overall ideas, two passages if you want. So I could show musically a definite Part I and Part II linked together with similar orchestration. Both parts offer different moments: at times dark, even sinister, at other times uplifting and hopeful. What musical and non-musical influences do you tend to look to as inspiration? Like most artists, I get inspiration from many sources. Because of my background in Applied Arts, I am definitely inspired by all art forms, such as Graphic Design, Fine art, Architecture, Fashion, Product design, dance, music, acting, film, culture, and travel. Everything is linked to me, and there’s no single artistic expression that I translate into a specific musical idea! A lot of the time, I will absorb many ideas from various sources to then distill them in my creative process. Over time, you develop a language and a creative voice that can evolve and incorporate new elements. Also, I always try and give myself different musical challenges to see how I will react creatively. Each project is like an adventure, a journey of discovery. Is there a particular message you'd like them to take away from "Tōji - 冬至 - (part I & II)?" As with all my releases, I create music to engage the audience’s imagination. I usually avoid creating specific emotions because I try to emulate how we feel on a human level which is very complex and multi-layered. Often with applied music, the goal of a piece is very precise, and it has to accompany and support a movie scene, a narrative, or a specific emotion. Still, in my releases, it is my time to be free to express various musical landscapes without limitations. I am also an abstract painter, and my music parallels that work: abstract musical paintings that let the listener imagine what they want. What's next for you? My next album, 'Nocturnes,’ was completed in 2022, and I will release it in April 2023. In 2022, I had a few other projects I wanted to put out, such as my ‘Piano Paintings’ and ‘Clair-Obscur' suite for solo piano, but I feel 2023 is a good time to release this new body of work. ’Nocturnes’ has a similar sound to ‘Tōji (Part I & II), but with added clarinet, flute, violin, and viola. It explores nighttime, how inspiring and mysterious it is, and how comforting and primordial it can feel. The album can work best played at night (it won’t give you nightmares, hopefully) as it is relaxing and evocative of dreams. Instagram Facebook

Making a name for himself, hip-hop artist Drew Lines is known for his clever lyrics, powerful beats, and uncanny ability to relate to his fans. A bit different than most rappers, Drew Lines indulges himself in rock influences, including Pink Floyd, Nirvana, Breaking Benjamin, and The Doors. and more. However, when it comes to hip-hop, staples in his playlist are always Jeezy, T.I., Wayne, and Lil Wyte. The intensity of his latest single, "Bangarang," takes us to a gritty atmosphere of hard-hitting truths. Produced by super-producer/engineer Chuck Alkazian at the legendary Pearl Studios, the textured beat of grime and pulsating electric instrumentation doesn't take on a traditional boom-bap hip-hop style or even dip into the new wave as far as production goes. The broken beat, synth, and drum-heavy atmosphere swallow you as Drew Lines raps about the hardships, trials, and lifestyle he's lived through. His determined vocals fuel lyrical motifs that echo his bold honesty with a double layer of Drew, propelling his boisterous energy through the speakers. Collaborating with Cesar Reddington to profess a robust dynamism, Drew Lines also sends this song out to those who boast about a life they've yet to endure. He makes it known that he's calling the shots, and diligence will always come out on top. "It's about becoming more than the hand you were dealt, perseverance, drive, and they want to succeed," says Drew Lines. Determined to get what he wants as he climbs his way to the top, the hard-hitting punchlines of Drew come hurdling through your speakers in "Bangarang." Listen to the single today on your favorite streaming platform. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Drew Lines, and congratulations on the release of your latest single, "Bangarang." There's much to respect here as you rap about the constant perseverance you undergo as you've faced hardship. Was there a particular moment that allowed "Bangarang" to stem into this marvelous creation? It really just comes down to all of the adversity and struggle. We all go through some shit; I'm blessed to have this ability and outlet. With success comes alot of good things but also plenty of hate. A few situations in the weeks before this song was written helped to push the dynamic. There's such an energetic dynamic that you and Cesar Reddington share on this record. How did this collaboration come to be, and what was it like working with one another? Caesar is a great artist and someone I have come to know as a brother. I wanted to do what any real friend/brother would do and bring him into a fold with some heavy hitters. Let him do his thing in a studio most artists never get to see or work in. As far as the work together part, we are always good. The track always falls in place when we work together. Does the music you create often offer this grand headbanging atmosphere to vibe out to? How did you adopt the style you have to this day? A major part of my style is caused by my brother Scott Keller a.k.a. Space Kase. He taught me from day one to be real and write for me. I sometimes deviate from that; as far as writing for me, always real, though. But I always find myself right back where I belong. What has been the proudest moment in your career thus far? There have been many. But the last time I went out to see Chuck and record in Detroit, I brought my mom and had her there. That was a great feeling. Other than that, the fact that my wife and kids know my music and support my endeavors that also a high point. What do you look most forward to in 2023? Exponential growth. Continuing what we started. As well as a few tours and big shows. I always look forward to the evolution of myself and my music. Instagram Facebook

Emerging American rapper KoviNo got his start with producing creatively at the age of 10. Based out of El Paso, Texas, he has received a significantly encouraging response from fans and followers. Although he has appeared on the horizon of American rap music as an independent artist, the extent of his experience is also as an experienced songwriter and audio engineer. The free-spirited essence of his latest single, “It Is What It Is,” comes to us through a hypnotic instrumentation fruitful in revolutionary elements. This is the type of track to be on full blast, and it still wouldn’t be loud enough. Keeping the energy at an all-time high as KoviNo ushers us into this expansive realm, you hear the hunger in his vocals as he embodies a modern-day hip-hop style. Pairing with the bass-heavy components of the production is a seamless concoction of the energy that should be taken into this songwriting style. “It Is What It Is” goes beyond the surface regarding intoxicating melodies and a cold-hearted ambiance that boasts confidence through and through. KoviNo adds his melodic rap styling to this record and showcases his unapologetic persona in a way that many can relate to on a personal level. From every perfectly placed adlib to the modulated vocal tracks shifting the dynamic of this song, “It Is What It Is” holds the immodest ambiance needed to boost self-assurance in the world. Listen to KoviNo’s latest single on all major streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, KoviNo, and congratulations on your release, “It Is What It Is.” We love the energy you place into this track. It’s impossible to ignore. Could you please share the inspiration for the song’s meaning? The inspiration came from some of the people I knew in life who looked down on me and said I could never make it, and now im at where I am, and the same ones who laughed are now reaching out to me. it's great to flex on haters and prove doubters wrong. Everything I say in my lyrics got truth to them. I can never dim someone’s light, but I can blind the doubters with mines when I get a chance. With such an intricate and grand sound produced on this record, do you find it encapsulates your messaging the way you want? What came first, the lyrics or the beat? I feel like the music encapsulates, but it reveals and exposes my true feelings. I have songs where it's the saddest song in the world, but at that time, it was my true feelings. It captured my inner thoughts and allowed me to express them further. The beat definitely came; first, I was producing this sound, putting myself in a raging mood to expose those who dimmed my light for a long time. The lyrics were really me telling the story of the beat cause without words, and the beat has no meaning. Does your music often take such an energetic approach? How do your songs reflect who you are as an artist? My songs lately have taken an energetic approach. Lately, I have just been in that rage sub-genre mood because it is so unique to me that I really give Lil Uzi, Yeat, Playboi Carti, XXXTenacion, and Trippie Redd their flowers. They really birthed this type of sound, and it was a courageous turn to make in the hip-hop genre that changed Hip-hop into what it is today. My songs reflect the deeper meaning side of me as an Artist. There are times I was truly vulnerable with my audience and fans about what I go through mentally. I can’t sit and talk to someone about my feelings; I can only express them. If you could have any artist, dead or alive, collaborate on the remix of this song, who would it be and why? It would probably be Yeat or Gunna. Even after all the accusations that took a bad turn for him during the YSL case, I would still work with him as an artist. What do you look most forward to in 2023? 2023 I am looking forward to notoriety and exposure. Lately, I have had a lot of eyes on me. I even recently produced a beat for K Chrys (Kacey Chrysler), the rapper from the group Lost Boyz and the current manager of famous actor Marc John Jefferies. the song will be a surprise! Instagram Facebook

The musical movement and spiritual revolution titled Lions Gate consists of three NYC-based veteran multi-instrumentalist artists that answered a universal call in 2021 to manifest the powerful project 'Portal.' Patrick Dougher, Yako 440, and Erik Rabasca brought the full force of their combined talents to take listeners on a trip from London to Lagos and from Kingston to Motown with 11-tracks that fit into their scope of reggae, trip-hop, hi-life/afrobeat, funk and jazz genres. The album starts with the title track and introductory single, "Portal," the project's gateway into groove-filled records aimed to make your move. The soothing sounds of this track take you into a blend of soul-infused jazz and drum fills that will make you think you're across the world. The hypnotic atmosphere makes you fall into the ease of Lions Gate as they welcome you on this journey, incorporating worldly sounds to allow the expansive essence of this instrumental record to sink deep, Second, on the track list, we're treated to the eclectic sound of the lulling and psychedelic song "Lions Gate." Named after the trio, this sonic representation embodies the three as individuals and a group. Dipping into smooth reggae accompanied by crisp horns, the galactic undertones give an otherworldly dimension to this record as you take it in. We are transitioning between the energy cast out and the dynamism sticks in the realm of triumphantly exquisite. The coaxing vocals continuously repeating, "Mankind, don't hesitate, step through the Lion's Gate," has put any doubts to rest as we step deeper into this album. Acoustic guitar strums, a rhythmic bassline, and elusive percussion set the tone for "Ubuntu." We effortlessly drift through this track as the musical ambiance acts as a wave bringing us closer to the heart of Lions Gate. With underlying beatboxing and potent chants that jive to the beat of the music, we embrace the culture represented throughout "Ubuntu." "Portal" is fueled by infectious energy and gives you a live off floor, open jam liveliness. "Light Walk" has an elusive greeting that commences with harmonized croons and mesmerizing snaps before you're rallied into the opulent horns, breathtaking wind instruments, and marvelous synths. It's impossible not to get lost in the rhythm as you bop your head and tap your toes to the intoxicating beat. Plummeting into various realms of the positive messaging Lions Gate instills in their music, the harmonious elements are all raw and push the envelope of any genre. "Iniquity" will have you focusing on the production components that round out this record and usher you into the finer details Lions Gate stores in their music through perfectly placed reverbs, delays, and intentional, empowering vocals. A song like "Lo Fi Hi-Life" reels this all in. Then it incorporates an entrancing chant stating the song's name before upping the musical complexity while remaining on the sophisticated spectrum they venture. It's brilliant how the beachy strums and timely percussion can cast out this sunny and effervescent vibe while also making you feel like you're jamming with your friends. Then we get taken into the seventh song on 'Portal,' and the mysterious nature of "Bismillah" has us feeling nuances of determination mixed with the underground club scene. It's wild how Lions Gate can transition into such fierce energies that contrast one another yet work together on a seemingly intelligent scale. A perfect representation of the yin and yang they bestow upon their music. Fitting into the captivating soundscapes, they've put in place, "Transition" tours us through dark hues that unconventionally reflect their free-flowing creation style. We admire the versatility as the textured layers continue to build upon one another, creating more dimension yet never cluttering the song. "Altars of Greed" sends out the vibrant message that capitalism is a bully as we navigate this life as we know it and make it out the best way we can. With bold vocals fueling this record, the entrancing energy that we're looped into all stands for a message that connects us. Although a robust representation of the greed in our world, the instrumentation that Lions Gate provides has us fully immersed in their skillset as they structure another earnest song backed by power. Coming in at number ten on the track list, "Elation" follows the factual and raw essence of "Altars of Greed" with lively and feel-good music. Boosting the energy we feel within, we immediately feel our moods elevate as "Elation" fits into the title it's given. The live instruments with electronic overdubs expertly mixed by Alan Siegler bring us a protruding buoyancy that feels perfect in our eyes and hearts. Concluding 'Portal' with the funk-fueled party anthem that elevates you just as quickly as it brings you back down to earth, "Beware" is the perfect song to conclude the realistic values and concepts that Lions Gate brings together in 'Portal.' The melt-your-face-off, electrifying guitar solo sums that up in the mere time it's performed and represents the beauty we find in the chaos. This purely analog studio recorded album holds a perspective lens into life as we know it. We are encouraging you to take a break and listen to the music before you there's something for everyone. Whether heavy dub reggae or lava hot hi-life/afrobeat, listen to the messages professed and the musical best of Lions Gate with 'Portal' on all major streaming platforms. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Lions Gate! Congratulations on the release of your album 'Portal.' An abundance of themes was visited throughout this project. Could you please share the concept behind the entirety of 'Portal?' The Lions Gate concept and name were spearheaded by the acclaimed visual artist /drummer/vocalist Patrick Dougher. He enlisted multi-instrumentalist collaborators Erik Rabasca and Yako 440 for the initial sessions in August 2022 during the astrological phenomenon from which the group took its name. Please share a glimpse into the creative process of this album. What was it like working with Alan Siegler to bring this project to life? 'Portal' was recorded and mixed over four immersive weekends. The process was deeply collaborative, with no written songs or charts going into the sessions. Each member contributed instrumental and vocal ideas, and a “flow state” was unlocked. The foundations of the rhythm section were all improvised on that first weekend. The following sessions were for overdubs and editing. Alan Siegler came in the final session for mixing and keyboard overdubs and joined the band officially as our 4th “Ghostface” band member. Are there any favorite standout songs of the band? Which songs and why? “Altars of Greed” because it speaks to the power structures that cause pain and suffering in the world. “Ubuntu,” which translates as “I am because we are,” because we have the strength to withstand that greed onslaught and experience joy. What is the mission statement of Lions Gate? Has this remained consistent in your time together? Lions Gate is a collaborative that seeks to create socially and spiritually conscious music, art, and multimedia. This is achieved through improvisation and brotherly love, support, and encouragement. What's next for you? The next Portal. Instagram Facebook

Making a name for himself through his YouTube remix/mashups of hit songs, producer Lonelez has struck gold with his most viral project yet; a reggaeton remix of "Willow" featuring artists Ozuna and Wisin. First going viral in 2020 by garnering over 1M views on YouTube and has since become the highest-searched song on Shazam in Mexico, Chile, and Ecuador, gaining the attention of a variety of esteemed Latin and international music media. Now resurfacing for a second wave of virality, Lonelez's vibrant rendition creates a refreshing twist surrounding Taylor Swift's passionate croons performed on "Willow." The rhythmic essence of this record is smooth and breezy as it conveys a fanciful magnetism you can't help but follow. The danceability encapsulated by Lonelez's remix allows us to see why listeners are obsessed with traditional reggaeton fusion and are bringing it back to the surface. Accompanying the alto singer's rich, dark vocals, Lonelez samples verses from Ozuna's hit record, "Caramelo," and Wisin's "Mi Nina." The infectious energy that surges through your speakers is undoubtedly why we love the track. As this isn't a mashup we typically expect, we didn't think that Taylor's lush harmonies in "Willow" would accompany the potent effervescence of reggaeton that we know and love. Thankfully for Lonelez, he's pushing the envelope and allowing listeners to bask in innovative fusions which fit together effortlessly. So whether you add it to your favorite playlist or use the sound on TikTok, this surge of Lonelez is bound to get you moving as his immaculate production rules you. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Lonelez! We're thrilled to have you here discussing your rendition of "Willow" featuring Ozuna and Wisin. What was it like for this song to go viral on TikTok, not just once but twice organically? How did you find out? I’m happy to be here; thank you for having me! Well, the first time was almost out of the blue. I’ve had some other remixes go viral, but nothing of this magnitude. One day the remix on Youtube was sitting at around 400 views, and then the next, it was climbing to over 10,000. The comments were coming in as well. So I was curious as to why all of a sudden, the remix was getting so popular. I did a quick Google search, and that’s when I saw so many tweets and blog posts about the remix. This continued for months, and eventually, the remix reached TikTok. So many people made their own trends and dance challenges with the remix. This was in early 2021. It was exciting, really! I think what really came as a surprise for me was how much love the remix was getting from listeners who don’t consider themselves Taylor Swift fans. I read one tweet that said my remix was the first Taylor Swift song they heard, and now they are officially Swiftie. That’s crazy but also so cool to hear! The remix was played on the radio in El Salvador, Argentina, Mexico, supermarkets, clubs, and bars throughout Latin America and Spain. But nothing could have prepared me for what happened next. The buzz around the remix had slowed down by the end of 2021 and the beginning of 2022. Then came the 2022 VMAs. Someone recorded Taylor dancing Reggaeton at the award show and uploaded that to TikTok using the Willow remix as a sound. That TikTok video went viral, and then came so many more. Wisin – whose acapella I included in the remix – even tweeted about the remix and made two TikTok videos. Insane! Taylor herself also liked a TikTok video where the song was being played at a nightclub in Paraguay. I received many DMs on Instagram, with people sending me videos of places where the remix was being played. It was truly incredible to witness, and I couldn’t be happier. How have Latin American Taylor Swift fans been embracing this remix? The Latin American Swifties are the best fans in the world, for real. They have accepted and embraced this remix with open arms. Thanks to them, the remix has gone viral and stayed buzz-worthy for so long. To this day, I still see tweets from fans asking Taylor to release the remix officially. Countless tweets say that they are manifesting that Taylor takes the Midnights tour to Latin America and performs the remix with Ozuna and Wisin as special guests. The love is real, and I’m so grateful. That’s why I’ve made so many Taylor Swift remixes since the Willow one, haha. I get many requests in the comments from Taylor Swift fans to remix her songs. Funny enough, every time I start producing a Taylor Swift remix, it all comes together pretty effortlessly. For some reason, Taylor Swift and Latin American music genres flow together. Please take us into your creative process regarding remixes and sampling artists for mashups. So, I approach it from a curiosity point of view. I’m always listening to all types of music, so I always get thoughts of, “I wonder what this would sound like in merengue or cumbia?” That’s 90% of how all my remixes and mashups come to life. I also like to mix genres in a single remix or mashup. I’m known for that, haha. Do your mashups often take the route of blending Latin music genres? What favorite mashups do you have, and what genres and major artists do they incorporate? Absolutely. It’s exciting to see so many Latin American artists go mainstream nowadays. Our music is heard all over the world! Like, you are telling me the number one artist in the world is Bad Bunny? That’s amazing! Inspiring! So, I’m also on a mission to put our music out there for the world to hear. And in ways, they’ve probably never heard before. For example, one of my favorite remixes/mashups I’ve done is “Modo End Game.” It’s a remix and a mashup of Taylor Swift’s “End Game” with “Modo Turbo” by Anitta, Pablo Vittar, and Luisa Sonza. I produced a fully original Brazilian funk beat and mashed up all the acapellas to make it sound as if it was a real feature. Taylor’s fans loved it! They had never heard Taylor Swift over a funk beat before. And likewise for the merengue remix of Taylor’s Vigilante Shit. I really like that remix because I’m always experimenting with ways to make merengue sound different. It’s one of my favorite genres because you can really mix it with almost everything. This reminds me of my merengue remix of the Jonas Brothers and Marshmello’s “Lose You To Love Me.” Another of my favorites! What's next for you? Honestly, I don’t know. I focused mainly on original music in 2022. But I always love making remixes, so that’s never going to stop. Working with these artists and releasing an official remix would be awesome. Yeah, that’s definitely the goal. So, we’ll see! Instagram Facebook

The faces behind Yawn Mower's raw and underground sound are the two-piece unit composed of Mike Chick and Biff Swenson. Born in Mike Biff's basement in Red Bank, NJ, in 2015, it took a baritone guitar and a prompting question to get the ball rolling. Through shows in New Hampshire and Denver, CO, as well as several EPs and singles, September 2022 brings us Yawn Mower's debut LP, 'To Each Their Own Coat,' of which they have since released two singles. Coming in hot with a third single, "Elevation," is dripped in 80s nuances as it's a nod to the new wave, alternative and post-punk scene brewed in that era. This refreshing new sound tackled by Yawn Mower is chalked full of energy in both the instrumentation and vocal performance. With the moody and intense atmosphere of the record accompanying the enticing, first-person pan-glide viewing of the music video, we get swept into a rush of nostalgia. Taking place at the local deli, Off Center Food Supply, Yawn Mower gets their hands down in the sandwich-making and register transactions. We not only get to view them in an "another day, another dollar" mindset, pounding out gritty lyrical motifs about elevating in life – but we get to follow around the other employees and customers going through the motions of their day-to-day lives. Lucky for us, everyone is part of the edgy performance as they're all trying to get by and make it on the up and up of life, singing their hearts away. "Elevation" is a dense landscape featuring combo organs, synths, and vocals by Pam Flores, in addition to the traditional elements of fuzz baritone and booming drums that Yawn Mower is known for in their music. Making it to the closing moments of the store operating hours, we take in the crew getting together and cracking open an ice-cold beer as they bask in making it through another day. Much like what most of us go through regularly, you hear their aspirations and dreams evolve in ways that surpass the standard daydream. Pulling us into a highly relatable and topical scenario that fits into what we're all thinking, Yawn Mower's "Elevation" has us sold on the pipe dream we'll continue to chase after. Welcome to BuzzMusic, Yawn Mower. Congratulations on releasing your long-awaited debut album, To Each Their Own Coat — it's great! What was it like tracking most of the album with Evan Bernard and Chris Baglivo on the mix? How did you link up with them? Biff: Thank you so much; we really appreciate that! It was a fantastic experience tracking with Evan. I’ve known him and his countless musical outputs since college. He’s a pillar of the Philly DIY scene. My band Earth Telephone tracked our debut full-length with Evan in a remote cabin near Woodward, PA, just before the pandemic hit. After being locked away for an extended weekend with him, I knew his attention to detail and constant drive to create was attractive enough to work together again stat. Not only was I confident that he could help me achieve the specific vision of how I wanted the drums to sound on this record, but I knew he was a baritone enthusiast because of his band, The Superweaks. It was instantly clear to us that he could help shape the skeleton of this record in a way no one else could. Mike: That’s very kind of you. This was my first time working and hanging with Evan and Chris. I had seen Evan play once or twice but didn’t go as far back as Biff does with them, but I was down to work with them based on the songs Biff had played me. I think the best part of the experience was when we were tracking, and I had an idea for a part that referenced a specific band, and they mostly knew what I was talking about. That makes it much easier to get your ideas across. They are a super easy duo to work with. You guys make stellar music videos, and we love the new video for "Elevation" this one-shot concept had us hooked from the moment we pressed play. What inspired it, and how many takes did it require before you nailed it? And where's this deli? It needs a shout-out. Biff: Mike had pitched the idea of the band members working in a convenience store. Once we started riffing on that idea, I quickly pitched a continuous shot. I thought of films like Goodfellas and The Shining, but with a fever-dream DIY punk sheen. We shot the video with the song slightly slowed down, so it’d playback with a hazy, dream-like drawl. Mike: We filmed the video at Off Center Market in Manasquan, NJ. Our friends recently opened the market and were nice enough to let us use it for the shoot. It was perfect. Get a sandwich or a mac and cheese block from them. Fun fact- Chris, one of the owners, plays slide guitar on our song “Shed Is Old” from our second EP, What’s All This New Piss? Despite this being your debut LP, you've been composing music for years. What advice would you have for bands these days just starting out.... ? We often say the tried and true "it's not a sprint; it's a marathon..." Biff: I’d start by saying make sure you’re doing it with the right people. A band is like a marriage. You spend a lot of time with these people, you spend a lot of money with these people, and your creative output is completely reliant on these people. Once you have a solid crew, gig whenever and wherever you can. Meet people, shake hands, and build connections with venues, bands, promoters, and patrons. Then the most important advice is don’t break up. Take breaks if need be, start side projects, and tour as a fill-in… don’t make any hard announcements that you’re on hiatus or breaking up. Name recognition comes with years of building up that Rolodex, so constantly ending projects to start new ones doesn’t help your brand as a creator. Mike: Buy a tuner. Put it on your pedal board. Tune your guitar in between songs. Bands with no tuners happen more often than you think. What is the Asbury Park, NJ scene like these days? Supportive? Competitive? Mike: Restaurants come and go. Bands break up. People move out of town. But Asbury Park still attracts new artists and musicians all the time. It’s cool to see different groups of musicians bubble up and pop. Biff: The scene here is loaded with a wide range of acts from many different genres, all of whom bring a certain professionalism to the stage. It’s both supportive and competitive, though. Everyone is gunning for opportunities to play with bigger bands when they pass through on tour or for bigger gigs outside of town. I have no qualms admitting that every show is a contest in my head. Even if I’m best buds with every band we’re playing with, the goal is still to upstage whoever else is on the bill. If you aren’t coming out of the gates with that attitude, I’d assume this is more of a hobby than a lifestyle for them. Dream tour, what three bands/artists are you sharing the bus with? Biff: Algernon Cadwallader, Tyler The Creator, Bon Iver. Mike: Gorillaz, La Luz, Wilco. Instagram