RadioIndy is pleased to present Marc James with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Maximum Action "

RadioIndy is pleased to present Marc James with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Maximum Action "

Marc James' 8-song CD, "Maximum Action," is a brilliant mix of David Bowie-meets-Bryan Ferry Euro-pop that is fit for a dance club as well as for a cabaret. Relying primarily on ambient, synth-infused soundscapes, James delivers wry, clever, and funny lyrics with an arch delivery invoking a dapper rogue completely unaware of his obviousness. The lead track, "The Perfect Stranger," captures this most effectively with a dry but melodic vocal in full seductive mode. "Hard Driving Music" rides a bouncing disco-like bass-line in a tuneful exercise that is pure schmaltz ("Do you want to swing, to dance, and sway to that hard driving rocking and rolling") - and is absolutely irresistible. On "Tribute to Marilyn" (yes, Monroe) James references Ray Davies' classic "Celluloid Heroes" with a straight-faced ingenuousness that is as subversive as it is catchy. Closing the album as strongly as it begins, "You Have A Secret" is built on a classic doo-**** chord progression that becomes transformed by a breathy, understated narrative (a la Leonard Cohen), and embellished by a solemn and perfect background chorus. In the end, Marc James' "Maximum Action" CD is that rare intriguing album by an artist that will win you over with his lush, melodic accessibility.

-Rice B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Marc James 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites

RadioIndy is pleased to present Identity Crisis with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Mosaic "

RadioIndy is pleased to present Identity Crisis with a GrIndie Award for the CD "Mosaic "

Mosaic is defined as "a combination of diverse elements forming a more or less coherent whole." Identity Crisis and their CD "Mosaic," is appropriately titled as this collection of varying styles tells a love story through numerous musical genres. With both male and female vocals, the album has a refreshing inconsistency that's bound to keep you engaged. "The Idea of You" takes a Bossa Nova approach, putting the listener in an elegant surrounding but don't get too comfortable; "Best of Yourself" captures a smoky bar ambiance through an 8-bar blues number. The harmonies are spectacular as you will hear on songs such as "Beyond." There are horns, harmonica, harmony, and solid and concrete musicianship that hold it all in place. These musicians have formed a strong and sound connection and the chemistry between them is brilliant. The password is "Mosaic," come on in.

-Max B. and the RadioIndy.com Reviewer Team
Check out Identity Crisis 's music on RadioIndy.com with link to purchase and links to popular sites