Category Archives: Spotlight

Artists of all varieties that I know and work with.

Good Times :: The Triggermen Show ‘Party Pro’ To The World

Everybody who knows anything knows how The Triggermen get down.  Now, after a very long visual hiatus, the recent release of Live Wire has come part in parcel with a new set of visual promotions.  The first music video is the extremely catchy Party Pro, and the video does a wonderful job of displaying the crew’s live show prowess and their sense of humor.  It’s definitely one to remember, and worth multiple viewings.  Dig it and share it, then dig it again!

-chief

Political Unrest :: Syllable Attempts To ‘Change The Conditions’

These are strange days that we are living in.  The latest in a long line of unnatural events was the election of Donald Trump as the leader of the free-world.  For many, this does not sit well, and folks like Syllable have decided to speak up.  Change The Conditions was a song recorded directly as a reaction to the emotional turmoil Syllable went through (and is probably still going through) while trying to comprehend this ‘decision’ our country has made.  You can feel the hope that is trying to break through the many layers of confusion.  Such a tragically beautiful creation… be sure to move this one around your social media.

-chief

Common Ground :: Joey Alpha Celebrates That ‘It All Makes Sense Now’

Joey Alpha, one half of the vocals for Slop Muskt, is a good-hearted man.  If the lead single from his upcoming project Tales From A Drifter, the beautiful meditation on equality titled It All Makes Sense Now, is any indication of what’s to come, we will soon all have audio proof of his good nature.  The track is a reflection on making attempts to be inclusive with those of all races, colors and creeds.  Throw in the fact that the dynamite team behind DVZN Media spent some time with Joey Alpha in downtown Austin capturing performance footage and handing out snowcones to those willing to dance, and you’ve got yourself a memorable music video.  Now, more than ever, is when we need messages of this kind, so please be sure to share this one with your friends, and especially with those you may not see eye to eye with.

-chief

Connected Spirits :: DdotElles Drops ‘Dos Almas’

Not that DdotElles ever went anywhere, but my main man is gearing up for a seriously strong push for the end of 2016.  After releasing the highly entertaining documentary short efaDdotElles is back at the tracks with an extremely touching tribute to connections between souls that are bigger than any two individuals can understand.  And, as usual, he hits the nail on the head with the lyrics (and the signature film samples we’ve come to know and love his work for).  Toss in a production assist from Oktoe, and you’ve got one for the ages.  Props as always.

-chief

Chance Advancement :: OMS Daily Skate Vlog Captures A Kickflip

The Old Man Skateboards social media presence is all about dedication, application, and eventual advancements in your daily progression.  Recently, while on a drive through New Mexico, the spirit was strong enough to require a setup on the side of the highway to practice stationary kickflips.  Lo and behold, Jansen‘s first kick flip (and the impending celebration) were caught on camera for all of us to enjoy.  Skate (or do whatever you love) every day.

-chief

Eternal Journeymen :: Ghost Palace Drops ‘Road To Nowhere (Still Running)’

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You know how we do it.  There are a handful of artists and groups that get automatic shine upon the release of anything, and Ghost Palace sits high on that list.  Road To Nowhere (Still Running) is so new, in fact, that I’m sharing it prior to hearing it in its entirety.  However, with Progeny on the tracks and Evolve as the wordsmith, I doubt it will be anything less than stellar.  Dig it and dig it good.

-chief

Sound Escapes :: Soda Diet’s ‘Live At The Thicket’ EP

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One of my favorite Austin acts that resides on the fringe (much like myself) is the ever psychedelic outfit Soda Diet.  Live at the Thicket EP is the latest release, and it’s some wonderful solid live performances of that sound you’ve come to expect and love from Soda Diet… tight enough to nod your head to, but spacey enough to get lost in.  More live albums!  More studio albums!  More Soda Diet!

-chief

The Evils :: STATIC Reflects On ‘Deadly 7’

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In a time where it seems like most rap is devoid of substance, it’s completely refreshing to hear folks execute a concept album with commitment and thought.  STATIC, an Austin based MC with hopes of reaching people with his message, has done just that with the EP Deadly 7.  He touches upon each of the seven deadly sins with a unique perspective and approach, and the end result is a project that will surely provide multiple enriching listens.  Check it out, share it, and show some support.

-chief

Time Tested :: JMAC The Dragon’s ‘Fade Away’ Visuals

Fade Away, the latest audio-visual from JMAC the Dragon, is a testament to holding your ground in a fickle and ever-changing culture.  The song, featuring support from JasThePhilo, wholly captures the essence of being an MC simply because it’s tied to every fiber of your being, like a calling.  While others come and go, get caught up in the fads and then move on, there are a handful of us that will take part in hip hop culture through some aspect until our last breath.  Shout out to CA the Commoner on the video direction.

-chief

Sound Synthesis :: Brainwave Releases ‘Surface’

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Sometimes, change is necessary.  Letting go of the old leads to new opportunities for growth and exploration.  Surface seems to be Austin-based electronic mastermind Brainwave‘s celebration of this evolution.  This album is like an audio journey through the channels of the mind.  Very rich, textured, and the kind of depth that draws you in deep.  Show some love, show some support, and tell a friend not to sleep on Brainwave.

-chief