Los Angeles pop princes Alana Gentry has been making waves with her breathy, pop sound, guitar chops and harmonica skills. The young performer has a sound I can best describe as pretty, with soft, uncomplicated melodies that play on her strengths. The brunette also incorporates some synth influences into some of her songs—take “Amplified” and “ Scarletina” as an example. “Amplified” sounds a little like Evanescence’s “Bring Me to Life,” which is a little disconcerting. When I was looking at Alana’s MySpace, I thought, “Oh! Another girl with a guitar,” but then I searched for her on YouTube and found some home videos she recorded and thought, “Now that’s what I like!” She’s sitting on her couch with her harmonica attached to her neck Bob Dylan style, donning a plaid hat and a smirk that made me like her instantly. I really like “Thoughts of You” which is happy and light sounding—her voice takes some fun runs in this one. I also like “We’re One,” that in one instance compares Alana to the rain—great metaphor.
Meredith Treinen Music
I like these guys a lot! Soul, hip hop and rock group Natives of the New Dawn bring a little bit of choir, rap, funk and merriment together for a unique fusion sound with synth, keyboards, an emcee and much more. The emcee (Vince Mann) has a very interesting style—his pronunciation of words is unique and he has a passion and intensity that comes across for the listener, not to mention great sideburns. The guitar player (Joe Fikany) delivers licks that rock my socks and the drummer (Tom Wachter) pumps the audience up with inspired beats for a dynamic live performance. The singer and keyboard player (Tony Nouhan) has a soulful voice, adding a great twist to the classic “Aint No Sunshine (When She’s Gone),” while upright electric bassist (Ryan Coomer) keeps the rhythm. DJ Gary Hoenicke, affectionately known as DJ Goo, offers synth without being obnoxious. I really like the energy these guys have onstage—great presence. The lyrics are perceptive and tell stories of interesting characters or situations, avoiding clichés whenever possible. “Old Shoes” is one of my favorites—funky and creative. Thinking about where your shoes have been and what sort of story they have to tell is a great concept.
Meredith Treinen Music, Musings
Indie rock, garage band 300 Pounds really brings the noise with their second full-length album, Metamorphosis. Based in Santa Cruz, California, the 3-piece ensemble is reminiscent of a young Sublime or a mini-Cake. With quirky lyrics and a variety of tempos and style influences, 300 Pounds makes your head bob—a definite achievement. So far, “Butcher” is my favorite—it’s fast-paced, quick-witted and fun to try and decipher. “Sick Sick Feeling” is also one I enjoy: it almost gives me a Talking Heads meets 311 vibe. Onstage, the group has an interesting dynamic. To me, the bass player (Pecos) steals the show with his funny “white-boy” dance moves—which translates really well for the audience. The guitar player (Nate) also manages lead vocals with a fervor that lets you know he means it, and his stage presence provides the audience with some comic relief as well. The drummer (Jon) hangs out with his kit in the back, and really goes to town on a few of the songs with catchy rhythms to back the entertaining vocals and front line. All-in-all: entertaining performances + fun music = good times for all. Make sure to check these guys out at upcoming gigs in the central California coastal area!
Meredith Treinen Music
