John Apice

Light Bird – See Her This showcase features singer/songwriter & guitarist Danni Hoshno, who explores wonderfully the challenges & beauty that came about with a new phase of life. Transitioning into Light Bird, she shapes the evolution of becoming a new version of herself. Vocally, Light Bird has a warm-hearted persona in her tone, good range & applied with expertise in songs that explore her fear, doubt & questions like misinterpreting feelings. That’s a heavy-duty chance.

Paul Kahn – Willingness With a slight reggae touch, this middle-of-the-road vocalist may not be Frank Sinatra, but he has a cool, laid-back approach, warm backing vocals, & a creamy arrangement that makes him stand out. “Stain On My Sleeve” is a bit retro in tradition but sung with expressive confidence. The tune segues into “Memory Lane” has a modest Paul Kahn romantic vocal tone. It’s a good storytelling tune with nostalgic precision, & the wonderful backup voices & tasteful guitar.

The Sensational Country Blues Wonders! – Music Sounds Better When You’re Stoned With a vocal application similar to the eccentric Wall of Voodoo vocalist Stan Ridgeway, this effort is actually interesting, a gourmet blend of new wave with an undefinable quality. In a word, nothing like what you hear regularly today, so it defines itself as creatively acute. The title track, Music Sounds Better When You’re Stoned (Dropped June 19/Independent/35:57), is energetic, bristling & well, accomplished.