Mikky Ekko’s debut album, “Time,” is a breath of fresh air! He delivered superb vocals and amazing lyrics with his first full-length studio album. (Album cover property of RCA Records)
By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
Welcome to another edition of New Music Releases!
This week, I am taking a look at the latest from 2CELLOs, Rihanna, three Reality TV alums and one of the hottest singer-songwriters that is currently in the music industry.
In addition, for the first time in the history of New Music Releases, I named two Albums of the Week!
Time by Mikky Ekko
Every time I listen to an artist to interview, review or feature for my blog or my Examiner.com column, I look for three things: the quality of their vocals, the instrumental hooks and if the lyrics speak to me as a listener. In Mikky Ekko’s case, he met all three requirements. Time is a spectacular debut album that has superb production value, strong vocals and amazing lyrics! I hope that the Recording Academy listens to this album because Mr. Ekko is going places! Congrats, Mikky! Time is my Album of the Week! A+
Tracks to Download: “Watch Me Rise,” “U,” “Time,” “Riot” & “Burning Doves”
Not So Black or White by Rachel Potter
One of my favorite acts that came out of the American X Factor franchise is Rachel Potter! The Broadway veteran who appeared in the casts of The Addams Family, Evita and the national tour of Wicked released her latest country-pop album: Not So Black or White. Throughout the entire album, the listener will be impressed with Ms. Potter’s vocal control that she successfully showcased on the album. She has a bright future ahead of her! Congratulations, Rachel…you have earned the second Album of the Week! A+
Tracks to Download: “Zero to Sixty,” “Boomerang,” “Somebody to Love,” “Try” & “Radio”
Tony Lucca by Tony Lucca
Three years ago, singer-songwriter Tony Lucca’s career experienced a rebirth thanks to his appearance on The Voice’s sophomore season! Today, Tony dropped his latest full-length studio album. Tony continues to showcase that he is probably one of the most talented virtuosos to come out of the show as his hypnotic licks and superb lyrics will capture the attention of listeners. If you are reading this, Tony…you are more than welcome to come back to Jake’s Take for an interview! A-
Tracks to Download: “My Confession,” “Delilah,” “Imagination” & “Right On Time”
2CELLOS continues to showcase their excellent artistry in their third studio album: “Celloverse.” (Album cover property of Sony Music Entertainment)
Celloverse by 2CELLOS
A couple of weeks ago, I began to look over iTunes for artists to discover. When I first clicked on 2CELLOS’ cover of “Smooth Criminal,” I was instantly hooked to their music. This week, the duo released their third studio album: Celloverse. They took their listeners all across the musical genre universe with their outstanding covers of rock anthems (“Thunderstruck”), alternative folk (“I Will Wait”) and chart toppers (“Wake Me Up”). Also, keep an ear out for celebrated pianist Lang Lang…who provides the piano backing for a Wings classic. B+
Tracks to Download: “I Will Wait,” “Thunderstruck,” “Mombasa” & “They Don’t Care About Us”
“Remember Me” by Chris Mann
One of the most powerful songs that have been released this year is “Remember Me.” Written by my friend and current Phantom of the Opera actor Chris Mann, this powerful anthem tackles Alzheimer’s disease head on and the song’s beautiful melody and arrangement will send chills down the listeners’ spine! I had the distinct honor of hearing Chris debut the song at his concert with the Kansas City Symphony last month and it made my fellow audience members cry. Bravo, Chris! “Remember Me” is my Song of the Week! A
Paul McCartney provided the instrumental background to Rihanna and Kanye West’s latest collaboration: “FourFive Seconds.” (Album cover property of Roc Nation Records)
“FourFiveSeconds” by Rihanna, Kanye West & Sir Paul McCartney
When I heard that Paul McCartney collaborated with Rihanna and Kanye West, my first thought was “WTF!” I was worried that these two controversial music icons would not sound great with the legendary singer-songwriter. However, after hearing the track…I was pleasantly surprised with the song! The three-minute and eight-seconds song showcased the “Diamonds” singer at her strongest vocally and the harmonies between her and Kanye would make their respective fanbases smile. Also, Mr. McCartney did an impeccable job providing the music for this track…although I wished that he sang on this track, because it would have taken this song to another level of excellence. A-
I do not own the clips that are featured in this article! They belong to the artists and their respective record labels.
