Independent Artists Spotlight

Catch the Independent Artists Music Spotlight on Wednesdays 1-2pm, Fridays 11-11:30am, and Indie Artists After Dark on Wednesdays at 11-Midnight!

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Ugly Boys Collective

Born out of a long dormant project that began in 2005, Ugly Boys Collective is an early mid-life crisis for three lifelong friends, Dane, Vaughan and Scott. The trio of instrumentalists were lucky enough to recruit the talents of Izaac (formerly Crystal Switch / Colour in the Lines) to put powerful voice to their particularly dark and ambitious flavour of alternative rock. Armed with a fresh four track EP, Death Petals, these ugly boys are ready to reclaim youthful glories and lay their contribution onto the alter of rock ‘n’ roll. Izaac Garmey – Vocals, Dane Goodall – Bass, Vaughan Lovell – Guitar, Scott Nicolson – Drums.

Have a listen to Erased below and then head to Spotify to listen to Death Petals, hear their newest track “Paywave” and follow the Ugly Boys Collective (and our Music Director does NOT find them “ugly”!).

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Rowdy McCarran

Rowdy McCarran can claim a lifelong devotion to making music. That was evident early on, from the age of three in fact, when his mom would observe him getting into a groove whenever music was played in their house. That joy and excitement never diminished, and today Rowdy continues to celebrate those sounds courtesy of his new album, the aptly-titled HERE. Recorded at Skeleton Key Studio in Las Vegas, it was produced and arranged by Rob Hegel — a former staff writer for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame legend Don Kirshner, and composer of hits for Air Supply, Sarah Dash and Grease 2 — and Bobby Ferrari, who also engineered, mixed and mastered the project.

HERE offers the latest example of the spirit and variety that inspires Rowdy’s devotion to making music. It shares a down-home, no-nonsense sound flush with grit, determination, honesty and emotion. It can be rousing on the one hand, reflective on the other, but through it all, from first song to last, his drive and deliberation are never in doubt.

“I’m driven by a desire to make a difference in people’s lives,” Rowdy says. “If I can touch someone’s heart and transform what might otherwise be a bad day into a better day, then I feel that I am doing my job. Seeing the smiles from the people I’m performing for makes me feel super happy, because music is a message from my heart. I try to provide songs that have meaning, no matter the age or their background of those that are there to enjoy them. I consider it a gift, and one that I’m happy to give freely and enthusiastically. That’s simply who I am.”

Rowdy’s talent and tenacity speaks for itself. And it speaks loud and clear on HERE!

Have a listen to a few of KBOG’s favorite tracks below, and then head to Rowdy McCarran to grab your copy and find out more!

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Chris St. John

“Chris St John’s latest offering, the 6-track EP “With You,” is a refreshing dive into heartfelt storytelling and soulful melodies. From the opening chords of the title track, listeners are transported into a world of timeless tales and enduring love. The EP’s centerpiece, “With You,” beautifully captures the essence of a young couple’s journey through life’s highs and lows, underscored by Chris’ rich vocals and masterful songwriting. Each track feels like a chapter in a novel, with vivid imagery and relatable emotions drawing the listener deeper into the narrative.

 St John’s talent shines through not only in his poignant lyrics but also in the impeccable production quality of the EP. The acoustic guitar arrangements provide a perfect backdrop for his emotive delivery, creating an immersive listening experience from start to finish. Standout tracks like “Don’t Ask Me” and “When Leaves Begin To Fall” showcase Chris’ ability to craft timeless ballads that feel instantly familiar yet undeniably original. In “Over Me,” there’s an undeniable gracefulness to Chris’ performance that sets him apart from the crowd.

Overall, “With You” is a testament to Chris’ artistry and musicianship. With its captivating storytelling and soul-stirring melodies, this EP is sure to leave a lasting impression on listeners and solidify St John’s place as a rising star in the singer-songwriter scene. ~ Cheers To The Vikings

Relax with a few tracks from “With You” below, and then head to Chris St. John to download your copy and hear more!

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Glass Alice

Grinding their way out of the blue collar streets of Youngstown, Ohio comes Glass Alice. Comprised of Mike Hermensky (Vocals/Guitar), Eric Albenze (Guitar/Bass) and Michael Gargano (Drums), the band melds influences as diverse as Nirvana, Metallica, and Sick Puppies into their own gritty brand of music that merges alternative, metal and grunge without fitting neatly into any of those genres.

“My World” is the second single from the  Glass Alice’s sophomore effort “Premonitions”, slated for release in 2024. The band’s debut album “Bitten” was released to rave reviews in 2020.

Have a listen to the new single (and bonus single!) below, and then head to Glass Alice on Facebook for all download and social media links!

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Steven Graves

The new album from Steven Graves, “Lovin Man”, was recorded in Nashville over the last two years with a World Class band in two world class studios – Ocean Way and the Sound Emporium! Steven has assembled a world class band of amazing session musicians who have collaborated on the 14 new tracks on the “Lovin Man“, the quality of production, performance and overall presentation is top notch. Also featured on the CD are The McCrary Sisters, one of Nashville’s premiere gospel groups.

Have a listen to his soulful tunes below and then head to Steven Graves to grab your copy!

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Totten Bridge

“Better Than Me” tells the story of one person in a relationship that comes to the realization that this partnership is not going to last. This truth is revealed in a dream and upon awakening is reinforced while looking over at the other person still sleeping in bed. The crystallization of this reality is both wistful yet understood as the natural progression of life and love.

Have a listen below and then head to Spotify to hear more from Totten Bridge!

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Good Morning Cernobyl’

New single from Italian band Good Morning Cernobyl’, “Bite It You Scum” is out! Good Morning Cernobyl’ has created their own brand based on British and American punk music attitudes. Lead voice and guitar is Giuliano Picciafuoco, back voice and bass is Massimo Margariteli, choirs voice and drum is Lorenzo Bonamente, choirs and second guitar is Gabriele Mameli. They released their first self-produced album “No Time to Fear” officially in March 2023 on all digital platforms.

Have a listen below and head to Good Morning Chernobyl to find out more about this provocative band!

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Afarin Mansouri

Iranian-Canadian composer & mezzo-soprano Afarin Mansouri‘s “Dancing With Love” marks a milestone for her. In addition to featuring her as the album’s composer, it’s also the first recording ever to feature her as a singer. The result is remarkable: she’s the primary vocalist throughout this album and carries its expansive journey with her full, expressive tone. The disc collects a variety of her work and showcases her unique hybrid of modern romanticism, exploratory approaches and elements that reference her Iranian heritage.  She’s joined by beloved Iranian singer Milad Bagheri as well as respected tar player Padideh Ahrahrnejad and virtuoso Ali Massoudi on Persian percussion while noted ensemble Thin Edge New Music Collective.

Take a listen to a few of KBOG’s favorite tracks and then head to the Canadian Music Centre to get your copy!

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Delphi Ravens

The Delphi Ravens are an indie/alternative rock band combining influences from several genres. Delphi Ravens were founded in late 2019 by bassist and songwriter Papa B. The band comes from the Pacific Northwest with its rich history of breakthrough music. Vocalist Kira delivers her dynamic vocals and co-writes many of the songs.

The band’s sound has been compared to many artists including Deftones, Evanescence, Fleetwood Mac, Foo Fighters, etc.

The Band says, “We aren’t vanilla or chocolate, but a blend of tasty musical flavors!”

Have a listen to their beautiful new track, “Take My Hand” and then head to Delphi Ravens to grab your copy, listen to more music and get their tour schedule!

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