Jay Americana: ‘Making Music from My Perspective Is a Revolutionary Act’
Atlanta-based genre-bending artist Jay Americana does not fit into a box, and he wouldn’t have it any other way. The creative’s sound rests at the intersection of hip-hop, alternative, and electronic dance – all while maintaining a cohesive quality. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross as she connects with Americana to discuss their early starts, finding a sense of belonging as a Black queer artist, Black history, and Americana’s favorite memory of the D.C., Maryland, and Virginia area, as well as an exclusive preview of their forthcoming EP, which the artist describes as a “celebration of life and liberation.”
Ben DeHan Looks Back, Writes Personal Letter to Himself with ‘Broken Bones’
There are times when a band’s songwriter comes up with music so personal, it defies categorization to the point that it doesn’t quite fit under the band’s moniker. This is the way Ben DeHan, approaches all of his songwriting, and it’s the reason that he releases music under his own name. After a stretch playing with American Diary and a subsequent hiatus, DeHan returned with a newfound energy as a solo artist. Since then, he and his wife, collaborator and cellist, Lauren have worked hard to establish the authenticity and versatility of their pop-punk act. Learn more about the duo’s journey and new EP with contributing writer Charlie Maybee.
Tiny Ghosts on their Unbreakable Bond, Creative Chemistry, and Defying Expectations
Friends have an infamous reputation for being less than ideal business partners. Indie pop duo Tiny Ghosts, comprised of guitarist Eric Morgan and lead singer Dayan Marquina, are a testament to the fact that one size does not fit all. Defying expectations, the duo entered the music scene in 2020 and has not looked back. Join contributing writer Cynthia Gross and learn more about Tiny Ghosts, including the curious story behind the duo’s name, how the band’s broad musical influences inspire their sound, and the impact of Marquina’s Hispanic heritage on her songwriting.
The Sublets Set the Record Straight with “Misunderstood”
Recent Articles Cleveland-based alternative rock band, The Sublets, tackles the uncertainty of current events in their latest single “Misunderstood”. Taking more contemplative route, the band shows off a more thoughtful, laidback approach that takes its time getting to where it’s going rather than focusing on a final destination. The music moves with restraint and a […]
Joe Downer: From Metal to Americana
Award-winning Americana artist and songwriter Joe Downer was born in the United Kingdom, but calls the DMV home. He moved to the States when he was young and settled in the DMV area, where he’s lived ever since. At 15, he got his first guitar and has not looked back since. Downer loves the area, and attributes a big piece of how his sound and self has developed to the DMV area and community, which he describes as “vibrant and supportive.” Learn more about Joe Downer’s inspiring story with contributing writer Jaci Jedrych, including his journey from rock and heavy metal to indie folk, how music helped him overcome dark seasons in his life, and why he believes music is the great healer.
Getting into the Fast-Paced Workflow of LG (Team Genius)
There are many musicians in the world who take an enormous of time to write and develop music between big releases. Meanwhile, there are other artists like LG (Team Genius) who have constant flow that seems never-ending. The insatiable drive of the Black, queer, Philadelphia-based rapper is undeniable, and she has worked hard to channel that flow into a seamless string of singles, EPs, and albums over the last several years, never failing to put her best foot forward. In recognition of Pride Month and Black Music Month, learn more about LG’s exciting journey with contributing writer Charlie Maybee.
The Queen of the Blues Is Back on the Road, and Heading to D.C. – Shemekia Copeland Headlines Columbia Blues Festival
Shemekia Copeland took a necessary break to give birth to and begin raising her son. However, she had no way of knowing the furlough would be exacerbated by the pandemic. Copeland is now ready to be back in front of audiences, including at the Columbia Pike Blues Festival in West Arlington on June 18. In honor of Black Music Month, join contributing writer Eric Althoff as he sits down with Copeland to discuss the show, preview her upcoming album, and delve into topics of motherhood, America’s violence problem, and more.
All the Colors of the Human Voice: This D.C. Conductor Rounded Up a Stellar Cast for PBS Pride Month Special
The programmers and artists involved in PBS special, “True Colors: LGBTQ+ Our Stories, Our Songs,” had a novel idea: Music could be the ultimate leveler. In celebration of Pride Month, join contributing writer Eric Althoff as he goes behind the scenes to explore the songs and stories of “True Colors” with members of the star-studded cast, including Founder and Artistic Director of the American Pops Orchestra, Luke Frazier; Grammy Award winner and Broadway veteran André De Shields; and Black trans operatic vocalist Breanna Sinclairé.
Alchemical Records Playlist Updates: Week of May 28, 2022
Recent Articles By Daniel Warren Hill Happy Saturday, and I hope wherever you find yourself this Memorial Day weekend that you are able to appreciate the significance of the holiday and able to enjoy time with those you love! There are so many tracks below hinting at even larger bodies of content. With this many […]
Live Music Reigns Supreme in The Northwest’s Music Video for ‘Long Hair (Longer Nights)’
More to Watch By Charlie Maybee Ontario based indie rock band, The Northwest, bring pop-punk realness to the forefront with their latest music video for “Long Hair (Longer Nights)”. The video captures the feel of a live concert as the band takes to the stage of a small venue ready to muster up all the […]
