"Truth Be Told..." by Vick Allen (R&B Artist from Mississippi(MS))

Sequencing a full-length CD is an art unto itself and the best kept secret to making a solid album. As important as it is to stack strong tracks near the beginning of an album, it's often those last one or two songs that make the difference in getting a listener to come back again and again. R&B hit- maker, Vick Allen, and his newest CD "Truth Be Told…" is an 11-song Urban / R&B treasure, and is a perfect example of getting it right. Opening with the appropriately titled "I'm Hooked," an up tempo, Al Green-like groove punctuated by Memphis-style horn bursts, Allen sets the tone for the diverse platter of R&B that follows. "You Stay On My Mind" is an inspired piece of infectious Southern Soul, while "Forbidden Love Affair" finds Allen revealing his inner R. Kelly; and "As Long As I Got My Baby" serves up a dash of funk, it is followed by the completely contemporary soul of "I Know You Got a Man." Regardless of style, though, "Truth Be Told…" is seamless and cohesive, linked as it were by inventive and smart arrangements, superb musicianship, and the kind of background vocals that defines great Urban music and, of course, Allen's smooth high tenor, a voice that alternately echoes Green, as well as lesser known R&B luminaries like Eddie Kendricks, Tyrone Davis or Howard Tate. But it's the CD closer, "That's Heaven to Me", a solemn and uplifting Sam Cooke cover with the kind of message and melody Stevie Wonder later perfected on songs like "Heaven Help Us All" that seals the deal and will ensure repeated listens. Sequenced for maximum effect and filled with classic R&B grooves from beginning to end, Vick Allen's "Truth Be Told…" CD is a terrific album and a welcome addition to the Soul field.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Crazy Love" by Juniper (Alternative Artist from Florida(FL))

Juniper's recently released album "Crazy Love" delivers an edgy and original showcase of alternative rock music. Right from the first track, "You Rock My World," the drum beats pulse subtly into your soul while the strong and solid guitar plays driving riffs. The strong and emotive lead vocals on the title track "Crazy Love" are reminiscent of the popular female vocalist Alanis Morissette. Vocals throughout this album are melodic and mysterious, which gives way to the interesting and sometimes cryptic lyrics. There is a great amount of creativity, as each instrument presents a certain depth to the songs. "This Is My Job" and "I Like Solitude But Not Long" features piano that adds to the hypnotic tones. Juniper also balances the music with a variety of electronic sound effects that complement these well-crafted songs. If you like to hear music that has mystifying overtones and is in the style of Evanescence, then you should definitely check out Juniper's "Crazy Love."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
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"Soy Hijo De Un Pueblo Latino" by Kenny Quintero Y Su Orquesta Brava (Latin Artist from Florida(FL))

Kenny Quintero Y Su Orquesta Brava serve up a vibrant and entertaining treat on the recently released disc "Soy Hijo De Un Pueblo Latino." This colorful mix of salsa, cha-cha, and Latin jazz tunes will have you dancing on your feet in no time. Quintero is no stranger to the music scene, as he has played at various venues, and listeners will be able to feel the great chemistry he has with his fellow musicians. The vocals are crisp and clean and deliver the exciting quality of this musical style. Experience the syncopated beats of the percussion as the horn section splashes the melodies with colorful riffs on songs such as "Sonero Bugalu" or "Chacha Picante." Another highlight is the bright and lively piano on songs like "Para Que Gozen" as it instantly introduces the vivacious rhythm. Pulsating and exciting energy is what listeners will hear on the original and dazzling album "Soy Hijo De Un Pueblo Latino," by Kenny Quintero Y Su Orquesta Brava.

-Diane T. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"I'm Yours" by Linda Holley (Spiritual Artist from Virginia(VA))

Talented singer/songwriter Linda Holley releases another outstanding album "I'm Yours," featuring gospel music with a taste of inviting jazz. This gifted vocalist delivers strong and powerful lyrics of spiritual meaning with memorable style and grace. Holley has the ability to pull the listener into her melodies with a solid vocal range that never falters. The title track "I'm Yours" exhibits to the audience her heartfelt vocals and is nicely accompanied by a rock solid piano and a slight touch of organ. Vibrant and upbeat, "Touch Me" is filled with energizing appeal while the harmonious background vocals vibrantly intertwine with the lead vocals. Feel the soft brushes and easy flowing jazz rhythm on "When He Called Me," as Holley confidently sings with cool and relaxed articulation. Linda Holley's "I'm Yours" will have listeners feeling the spiritual themes that are captivating to all fans of gospel music.

-Diane T. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Top Dog" by King Swagah (Reggae Artist from Florida(FL))

"Top Dog" by King Swagah is a fun album full of dancehall reggae beats that will have your body moving to the groove. The production on this album sounds very professional, with beats and bass lines that dance through your speakers. The songwriting is memorable, with catchy choruses that are well-delivered by the excellent vocals throughout. The title track features Swagah's memorable Jamaican-accented vocals and body-moving beats. "Link Up" is definitely one of the highlights on this album, with a deep, global message. "Suicide Ride" includes a clever backing keyboard countermelody and driving bass line, accented by digital percussion instruments. Listeners who are fans of dancehall reggae, Shaggy, or Sean Paul will definitely enjoy King Swagah's "Top Dog," and should check it out.

-The RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Soul Complete" by Cagle & Nash (R&B Artist from North Carolina(NC))

Cagle & Nash serve up some delightful, easy listening R&B/jazz songs on their newest release "Soul Complete." This delectable disc features a collection of well written lyrics of love lost and found while showcasing lead vocals that are solid and well polished. The music flows with style and never falters while delivering the sounds of blues and the relaxing, fresh touch of R&B. An outstanding horn riff highlights "December" while the flute adds a soft and graceful touch. Another track which emphasizes the horn is "Information" as the solo is clean and crisp. Take note of the smooth and dynamic balance of harmonies with guest female vocalists on songs such as "Anywhere You Wanna Go" or "And Suddenly." If you like the songs of Steely Dan or Michael Buble, then "Soul Complete" is the next album you will want to hear.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
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"Isolate the Cue" by Black Dog Syndrome (Rock Artist from North Carolina(NC))

Like playing a long-misplaced album by Americana / Roots Rock stalwarts, NRBQ, Black Dog Syndrome's debut CD, "Isolate the Cue" is at once both familiar and bracingly new. Over the course of 12 original tracks "Isolate the Cue" explores the myriad of secluded and obscure estuaries that make up the best of Americana; that is, the kind of smart and provocative elements of rock, R&B, blues, jazz, and other Southern influences that fires the imagination. In the biting sax tone of lead track "Hungry Dog," the incendiary guitar of "Driving With Her Knees," and the imagery-rich lyrics of "Steps of Hell," a listener hears the components that made artists like The Bottle Rockets, B-52's, Firewater and Southern Culture on the Skids so original and compelling. Eleven of the songs feature Kirk Ridge's corrosive vocals to deliver taut and acerbic tales from America's back roads, while co-lead vocalist Kimmie Wilson takes the helm on the engaging "Wounded," offering up the kind of sing-along melodicism of Tom Petty's finest work. Co-produced by legendary engineer Mitch Easter, Black Dog Syndrome's "Isolate the Cue" is that kind of intriguing debut CD that's sure to satisfy.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"The Paul Cook Project" by Paul Cook Project (Country Artist from Texas(TX))

The inescapable lesson learned by Susan Boyle's meteoric rise to international YouTube fame is that singing talent is not the exclusive domain of attractive, expertly-coiffed 20-somethings belting out staid and redundant songs for a TV audience of musical reactionaries. The recently released disc, "The Paul Cook Project" is an album of original songs performed by various (unknown) singers from Abilene, Texas, drives that lesson home over the course of 15 tuneful, well-crafted, and meaning-filled songs that ache with sincerity and positivism. From the lush-pop strains of "Making Memories" to the contemporary country pulse of the Anytown, USA, narrative, "Light It Up"; from the self-empowerment piano ballad "I Can Win" to the inspirational strains of "Our Time," "The Paul Cook Project" melds a diversity of musical forms in a cohesive collection, thanks mainly to Cook's unerring knack for accessible and memorable melodies. Underscoring the entire CD is a solemn sense of Christian faith (made overt on songs such as, "Don't Run Away" and "Fruit of the Spirit"), but the spirituality is inclusive, not heavy-handed or preachy. "The Paul Cook Project" is a very listenable, fun (check out the Roger Miller-like ditty, "I Do What I Do") uplifting and, most of all, engaging CD of well-conceived, well-played & (gasp!) well-sung songs by the guy next door and an anonymous – but talented, community of singers.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Lucky Guy" by Roy Jay (Folk Artist from Florida(FL))

Who said you can't judge a book or CD by its cover? Roy Jay's debut album "Lucky Guy" embodies the relaxed beach tone feeling depicted in his cover artwork. There are twists on this traditional upbeat folk music throughout this disc with tracks like "In and Out of Dreams" where hand-percussion and acoustic guitar are complimented by harmonious background vocals with sing along style. Although mostly leaning towards lighter atmospheres, "Time's Page," takes a ballad approach where subtlety and style come into play nicely. The musicianship is sophisticated and mature, but Jay doesn't take himself too seriously during "Prettiest Girl in Wal-Mart" with a comical trip to the super-store. Get out your sun block as "Lucky Guy" is Americana wrapped up in a beach towel and ready to hit the sand.

-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
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"Jesus Never Fails" by George A. Jackson SR (Spiritual Artist from Maryland(MD))

Gospel artist George A. Jackson SR will inspire listeners with songs of faith and encouragement on his album "Jesus Never Fails." Jackson's vocals are soulful and full, which embellish the melodies with style and grace. The title track, "Jesus Never Fails," motivates the listener with uplifting lyrics and a touch of soul. Get on your feet and clap your hands and let your spirit move you to the rhythmic bluesy feel of "Thank You Lord." Turning to a different vocal style, "God Is Waiting on You" features Jackson telling a story with spoken words. His words flow with an appealing sensitivity while there is a nice balance within the supporting instruments. "Jesus Never Fails" by George A. Jackson SR is an inspirational gospel album brimming with thoughtful lyrics and inspiring character and is well worth listening to.

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com reviewer team
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"Winner" by Valerie Hash & Predestined (Spiritual Artist from Roanoke, Virginia (VA))

Get a taste of inspirational gospel by Valerie Hash & Predestined with their single, "Winner." Valerie Hash, who is a minister of music, director of choirs, and conductor of clinics/workshops, is truly an inspiring singer. You will feel the strength of her faith as she sings with the style and grace of pure devotion. The single, "I am a Winner," is pouring with spiritual passion while the melodic lyrics inspire the listener to believe and have faith. The musicians provide solid support to the accompanying background vocals, which are wonderful and divine. The instruments complement the vocals with strong rhythms and precision. Fans of inspirational gospel music will not want to miss out on hearing Valerie Hash & Predestined's "Winner."

-Diane and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Valerie Hash & Predestined's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites