Could not make it out to Governors Ball on Randall’s Island this weekend? Well no worries, new music is springing up all across NYC with new releases and performances at venues that are somewhat more intimate. We introduce you to what is brewing on the horizon!
Chris Riffle the mellow man of indie music is making waves this spring. First performing at The Delancey for EI-PR industry music night, he then took his show in front of even more fans and an enthusiastic crowd at Rockwood Music Hall in honor of his CD launch!
Singer/songwriter, Chris Riffle launched his CD Out of Town, at an intimate event at Rockwood Music Hall on the LES on a Tuesday night. Stage 3 was packed and ready to go as Chris commanded the stage with his soft yet intense voice. Backed by three other musicians, (listening to the bass guitarist was a special treat) Chris entertained with his latest songs and some older ones as well. His music has haunting qualities and even melancholic notes. Although, primarily love songs, Chris’ darker lyrics include “we’d be less if I remained”. When Chris performs, you know you will be listening to an extremely well executed set, the concert was flawless planned and even found room to incorporate a French horn into one number.
I was able to pair the Chris’s two live shows with an exclusive album review of Out of Town. Track #7 on the album brings up the anxiety that is so prevalent in many songs by Mr. Riffle, along with the longing for and questioning that he is doing everything right in his relationships. “Why do I worry so?” is a simple, yet necessary question we all seem to ponder at one time or other. Track #9 touches on the theme of break ups in an eloquent manner.
The raw, stripped down essence of Chris never gets too heavy. He seems to know instinctively when to change the mood and interject some upbeat note during a stage show. Chris Riffle brought to mind Paul Simon and with his latest album which has a double connection to NYC, his adopted city and where the album was mixed at NYC’s Magic Shop. Chris Riffle brings to life the raw and passionate artist he is during either a performance or listening to his new album on repeat.
Also on the scene this summer, with a new album is Jamie Lynn Hart. She brings to mind Kelly Clarkson wit h her vocal styling. Her natural ability to belt and command your attention, bring to mind Idina Menzel-like Broadway ability. With a voice like Ms. Hart’s she has the talent to take risks and does not shy away from them. This force to be reckoned with comes out blazing with a country style that takes no prisoners. Her new album, The Let Go, is supremely relatable. Ms. Hart’s girl next-door attitude will have listeners singing along to lyrics like “I think too much,” and with cheering at her frank words “thank asshole”. Her music, although fun and full of spunk also conveys the deeper message of female empowerment. Jamie Lynn Hart apparently does not take messing around from anyone. She has found her voice and with the amazing talent it possesses she sheds convention and creates a great album of both influence and significance just like the spitfire she is!
