Year in Review: My Top 10 new releases of 2015

This list is of the Extended Plays (EPs) or full studio albums that I enjoyed the most in 2015. They had the most impact on me throughout the year and brought me to write this 'Year in Review.'

10) Fortunate Youth - Don't Think Twice

Kicking off the Top 10 is this solid full length release from Fortunate Youth. When hearing "Don't Think Twice" there is a definite appeal to mainstream listeners with songs such as "For You," "My Love," and "Wasting Away" from the 6 piece band based out of Los Angeles, CA. At the same time this album absolutely appeals to the reggae community with ragers "All Night" featuring The Expanders along with the 'Ganja Farmer' Marlon Asher and Caleb of The Green appearing on "Pass the Herb." Fortunate Youth also released their video premiere, a claymation/animation by Johnny McHone (Robot Chicken, Mr. Pickles) for "Midnight Lover," one of the featured tracks on "Don't Think Twice." This is their 3rd full studio album after debuting in 2012 with the "Uplifted" EP. The band is currently on deck for The Return of the Red Eye Summer 2016 Tour with Slightly Stoopid and SOJA and just concluded the first leg of near sold out run with Stick Figure and Katastro on the Set in Stone Tour! They're more than ready for more major future touring so be sure to check cities near you!

9) Collie Buddz - Blue Dreamz

Collie Buddz has become one of my favorite entertainers and his new EP "Blue Dreamz" confirms it. His unique island reggae blended with dancehall beats and rap/hip-hop lyrical flows reverberate in your ears like an echo chamber. He works with Grammy winning producer Dwayne "Supa Dups" Chin-Quee, savvy reggae veteran Jimmy Wonder, and Loud City production team on his latest release. Depending which copy you get you may or may not hear one of  the biggest tracks on the EP. Digital outlets Amazon and iTunes don't include a great song called "Yesterday," featuring Snoop Dogg and Jody Highroller. Collie Buddz discography is littered with singles dating all the way back to 2006 and his self titled first, and only full length thus far, was released in 2007.  The rabbit hole goes quite deep across several different musical genres (reggae, island, rap/hip-hop, Latin, dancehall, etc...) also adding an extensive list of remixes and compilation appearances that are definitely worth a listen. Furthermore, if you have the opportunity to see him and his band perform in a live setting I would strongly encourage it. The array of covers and originals they play engage the crowd in very distinct ways. The live energy along with the power of the music transcends any music barriers and further establishes his emergence into the mainstream.

8) Slightly Stoopid - Meanwhile... Back at the Lab

Landing at #8 on my list was Slightly Stoopid, oddly enough with their 8th studio release. The San Diego natives retreated "back to The Lab," at Stoopid Studios in southern California and dug deep to follow up their 2012 release, "Top of the World." Such as bringing in Marshall "Ras MG" Goodman (Sublime & Long Beach Dub All-Stars) to produce the remake of "Prophet" from the original 1996 "Slightly Stoopid" LP that featured Sublime's Bradley Nowell on bass.  Sublime also released a cover of "Prophet" on their 2006 boxed set "Everything Under the Sun" where Nowell ends the song by saying, "that song needs to be re-f*ckin thought out," so Slightly Stoopid followed through in solid form years later. The band also worked with the immensely successful Jerry Wonda, producer behind The Fugees "The Score" and Santana's "Maria, Maria," to create one of the most amazing songs of the year in "Come Around." "Meanwhile... Back at the Lab" is a display of the band's diversity, from the punk/thrash "F*ck You" to Latin-inspired "One Fine Day," featuring Grammy-winning Angela Hunte. Slightly Stoopid is set for another Summer tour with the aforementioned, Return of the Red Eye Summer 2016 Tour alongside SOJA and Fortunate Youth.

7) RDGLDGRN - EP 2

 The trio RDGLDGRN hails from the east coast, specifically Washington D.C. They have been a sensation since their band captured the attention of such names as Angel Haze, Pharrell Williams, and Dave Grohl who all contributed on their 2013 self titled "RDGLDGRN" LP. The members are named "Red," "Green," and "Gold" - all yielding their favorite respective color in attire from their shoes, to shirts, to pants, etc... They commonly get associated with reggae because of their color scheme but they are more of a hip hop, go-go, indie, rock, reggae collaboration. EP 2 is their 3rd release overall. The group explains in a Consequence of Sound interview that each song is "a snap shot of where we happen to be creatively. Borrowing from more genres and mixing it all up to make music we want to hear in this moment.” This group has a fresh new sound that people are excited to hear, especially when able to catch them live. This EP is the band's "official reintroduction." The greatest benefit to that is that they have 2 previous releases to sink into as well continuously streaming new music on their Soundcloud.

6) Inna Vision - Push EP

The island of Hawaii is home to many great musicians and no exception to the band Inna Vision. Their "Push" EP is a preview of highly anticipated 4th full length album titled, "Lifted," soon coming out of E.N Young's Imperial Sound Recording Studio. Inna Vision worked with E.N for the "Push" EP and  their "Live at Imperial Sound" recording, as well as singer of Inna Vision, Koa Lopes, collaborating with Gonzo (also out of Imperial Sound Recording Studio) for some rhyme-slaying on the song "Roots It Up" off the "Red" album. "Push" has it's own appearances, the track "Orange Butterflies" has the sweet, serenading voice of the one and only HIRIE. Also what I believe to not only be one of the biggest reggae tracks of the year, but one of the biggest tracks to be released for the year in music overall, is the phenomenal "Reggae Lives" featuring Star of The Steppas. This anthem resonates deeply with the listener and leaves them hungry for more. Inna Vision fully intends to follow through when "Lifted" drops March 2016!

5) E.N Young - Live, Love, Stay Up

Not only does E.N Young own and operate his studio in the San Diego area (Imperial Sound Recording Studio) as well as a label (Roots Musician Records) he also is a full-time member of the band Tribal Seeds. Somewhere along the line he also found the time to write, record, and produce his very own music most recently with this inspiring 3 disc album "Live, Love, Stay Up." On the 3 disc set is a studio version, a dub mix version, and an acoustic version of each song inspired by Rebelution's "Peace of Mind" that included the same style 3 disc release. Tribal Seeds contributes collectively for "Overpowering Blessed Love," as well as individually: Maad T-Ray on "Inspiration" and Gonzo for "Never Leave Your Side." Ooklah the Moc, Kali Navales, and Father Psalms also make an appearance in the song "Live," to encourage light in our lives and those around us discouraging the struggling in society. Shortly after the release of "Live, Love, Stay Up" in January 2015, E.N assembled his very own Imperial Sound Band and started booking tours. The upcoming Spring Harvest Tour with Tribal Seeds features E.N Young and Imperial Sound scheduled through May.

4) Black Bottom Lighters - 2 or 2,000

Reigning from the Arizona desert, Black Bottom Lighters, want you to know whether a crowd of "2 or 2,000" they will rock out with everything they have just the same. The bass bumping, drum thumping, steady rocking, smooth styling musical rhythms throughout the 14 all-original tracks set up a strong foundation for the band's very bright future. The band released their self-titled debut EP in late 2013 and haven't let up. Releasing "2 or 2,000" in April 2015 and already well on their way with more. "Down For You," "Pipe Dream," and soon "Peace, Love & Smoke Rings" featuring Layzie Bone from the infamous Bone Thugs & Harmony. Newly acquired guitarist Mike Proctor and existing guitarist Phil Kaiser have a long-time musicianship together and the guitar work speaks for itself. The band's style stays the same; hard hitting beats, groove-filled bass, with their signature call and response as well as tremendous harmonizing. Be on the look out for more touring and more releases upcoming from these "Desert Reggae" rockers, you won't want to miss out!

3) Mat McHugh - Waves

Mat McHugh is the singer, songwriter, guitarist, mastermind behind popular Australian musical collective, The Beautiful Girls, as well as his solo alter egos; Ras Mateo, The Separatista Soundsystem, and The Blackbird. His solo effort "Waves" hits on first impact with "Good" and keeps rolling all the way through the entire 10 songs! Mat says, "There is no separation between the songs I write and the life I live. They are my priority and my reason for living." And continues, "From the start I chose to go down the path of letting the music speak for itself. In that way,  nobody was tricked into liking it but has formed an honest connection. I think those kind of connections last longer and are far more real." The "Waves" album was originally distributed as a free download on his Bandcamp, very similar to his previous release "Love Come Save Me," but soon changed it to "pay what you want" after being inundated with questions how people could pay for such a high quality product. Mat is concluding his Australian Summer Tour at the end of March with The Beautiful Girls and fully intends touring internationally in support of "Waves." Stay plugged in to Mat's Facebook he updates on a regular basis for any touring news on the horizon.

2) Stick Figure - Set in Stone

Scott Woodruff, aka Stick Figure, completely followed through with the high anticipation surrounding his newest musical endeavor, "Set In Stone." It debuted #1 on iTunes, Amazon, and Billboard Reggae charts and sold over 10,500 copies in it's first 12 weeks! Not only did they want to hear more of Scott's brainchild but there were some major guest appearances that intrigued the audience. Notably Kyle McDonald from Slightly Stoopid on "Choice Is Yours," Eric Rachmany from Rebelution for the song "Mind Block," Collie Buddz on "Smokin' Love," and even Stick Figure's own K Bong for "Smiles on Faces." Scott recently said in an exclusive interview with Live Music Daily, "The biggest inspiration for me in music is nature, the ocean, your friends." He wanted to really get across what the songs are all about in the music videos too. "The Santa Cruz mountains, the redwoods, the ocean, Cocoa [dog], my boys," he talks about the video for the album's first track "Fire on the Horizon." "Once it got finished I was like, this is spot on. This is what (the song) is all about." Stick Figure is taking a break between the previously mentioned first (Katastro/Fortunate Youth) and second (Raging Fiyah/Fortunate Youth) legs of the "Set in Stone" supporting tour and wrapping up at 4/20 Eve on the Rocks at Red Rocks Amphitheater. More festivals like California Roots, California Roots: Carolina Sessions, Hang Out, and Backwoods are also "on the horizon" for Stick Figure. Catch them when you can, it's worth every second and every dime.

1) Iya Terra -  Full Circle

My number 1 right now is, hands down, Iya Terra! Based out of Los Angeles, CA they promote meditation, healthy living, and self-manifestion in their band name which means, "Higher Ground." First coming to fruition in 2013 and releasing their "Iya Terra" EP shortly after in 2014 they wanted to make a statement with their first complete album. Bringing heavy hitters in from all around the U.S. they have New Kingston appearing on "Real Sensi," Karim Israel from Arise Roots and Kennedy Peneueta-PeaPea from Ital Vibes for "Bless Up," Vince Villagomez from Beyond I Sight on "Stand Strong," Joey "The Hawaiiantist" Muraoka on "Iya Lovin' Dub," Dub Architect for "Stand Strong in Dub," and Corey Draskovich on "Nice It Dub." The heavy vibes shine from track to track and gives high sign of good things coming. Fresh off  headlining The Constellation Room of the sold out One Love Fest in Orange, CA and were the act to see. They manifested themselves with crucial mantras and delivered an amazing performance, setting an impressive precedent going forward. New track, Loving Design, is available for pre-order and March 2nd release. They are heading out for a run with The Expanders and Gonzo in March as well as playing April 30th, Day 1 of the 13th Annual Summer Meltdown. Iya Terra coming in hot, live and direct, headed straight for those eager to hear some unbelievable positive music! 

HONORABLE MENTIONS:

 

 The Expanders - Hustling Culture

Los Angeles, CA is the home of The Expanders and of flourishing reggae music stateside. Although "Hustling Culture"  is technically the 3rd release, it's their first as a cohesive 5 piece unit. Crowds are grooving and catching on to the 1970s vintage sound. The Expanders toured with Tribal Seeds and L.A. peer, Arise Roots, nationwide for the 2015 Summer Smoke Out and are hitting the road again this year. Scheduled for 2016 thus far is the Top Shelf Spring Tour playing shows with Iya Terra and E.N Young across several states. Then join up with Hawaiian, reggae bands Iration and HIRIE for the Hotting Up Tour 2016. The Expanders also will be playing Florida's Reggae on the Block and California Roots festivals. Including a Expanders Soundsystem DJ set.

Maad T-Ray - Reach Out

T-Ray Jacobo, from Tribal Seeds, branches out behind keyboards and goes for the microphone with his solo debut full length album. "Reach Out" is solidly filled with rootsy flows and catchy hooks in addition to a genuinely positive message. Guest appearances by New Kingston, HIRIE, Wakane, Eric Rachmany from Rebelution, and Katherine Ramirez from Mystic Roots are highlighted throughout it's entirety. "Babylon Drugs" and "Don't Disrupt This Party" are key tracks the theme of the album embraces. Maad T-Ray has been able to squeeze in some live performances between Tribal Seeds tours and remix/produce but don't worry, it's only a matter of time before there's more of this fantastic solo material.

Matisyahu - Live at Stubb's III

As a ten year commemoration of the original breakout "Live at Stubb's" Matisyahu released these 6 tracks in the new format he's been playing. After years of playing live in the company of the prominent Dub Trio, Matis has optioned to mix up the roll call. An improvisational, engaging approach that allows the band and the audience to revel in the moment shared. Each musician played with Matisyahu at some point in the past and yet each road led to them to the musical journey they are currently experiencing. This could be the last new music available to most digital music outlets for a while. Unless you happen to be a member of his Dreampatron - which is the only means of getting his new music.

Upcoming 2016!

So much good music to look forward to in the upcoming year! Some that I am looking forward to the most are Seedless "Orange LP," HIRIE Wandering Soul, Simpkin Project "Beam of Light," and new project consisting of Amp Live from Zion I Crew and Eric Rachmany of Rebelution, Unified Highway. Island, roots reggae from Las Vegas, NV Lady Reiko & The Sin City Prophets and strict roots from the Arizona Verde Valley, Kill Babylon Coalition, soon coming as well!

Emerging like a Phoenix, Arise Roots brings more of what the world needs

The Los Angeles, CA band Arise Roots has been rekindling the 1970's style roots-reggae music back to full flame since 2010. Composed to be an essential, soul-driven roots reggae band with appeal to anyone amid social, economic and environmental controversy. They bring something new and fresh yet leave the integrity of the roots feel intact. Singer Karim Israel explains, "Me personally, I feel like I have a responsibility to give a voice to the voiceless, or to make sure certain issues are in the minds of the people that listen to our music. I don't ever want to be a 'weed band' or a 'party band' or just a band that is playing music just to do music because to me it's not about that. To me, it's the message first, then wrap the message in the music. I can't separate the message from the music."  Keys player Todd Johnson puts it this way, "The music is the vehicle to transport the message." Their message is that of roots-reggae: One Love, unity, and peace.
 
Founding member Ron Montoya lays down a steady drum beat, uniting a sound-dropping bass rythm from Rodolfo "Rudy" Covarrubias, skilled keys/vocal harmonies/trumpet player Todd Johnson, dedicated front man/singer Karim Israel, and fire-setter Robert Sotelo Jr. on guitar. Also adding incredible harmonies featured live as part of Arise Roots over the last two years on vocals and guitar is Chris Brennan from The Soulutionaries, a cornerstone for backing legendary Studio One Artists: Keith & Tex (also backed by guitarist Robert Sotelo at the Sierra Nevada World Music Festival in 2014), The Tennors, The Cables, Winston Francis, among others. You can find Chris playing guitar with the Western Standard Time Ska Orchestra as well.

Since inception Arise Roots has been steadily releasing music to the masses. In 2010 they debuted EP "Lay Your Guns Down," full-length "Moving Forward" in 2013, and not only their most recent release but also their most successful, "Love & War" in 2014. Each has been a solid representation of where the band is along their musical journey. Guitarist Robert Sotelo says of their perseverance, "We are constantly improving ourselves and rehearsing so we can keep on doing what we're doing." Their music is captured extremely well in each respective recording effort but the live performances are what set Arise Roots aside. Over the last several years the band has highlighted the biggest reggae concerts and festivals throughout California and the northwest region, expanding into Canada.

Between their sell out shows at home in Southern California, the band was brought out nationally by one of today's most relevant roots-reggae bands, Tribal Seeds, on the 2015 Summer Smoke Out Tour. Along for the ride were enormously talented, fellow L.A. roots band, The Expanders. The roots run deep with this group. Bass player from The Expanders, Chiquis Lozoya, is credited for additional vocals on both Arise Roots LPs and accompanies Chris Brennan with heavy roots legends The Maytones (vocal duo Vernon Buckley and Gladstone Grant), Brian Dixon (The Aggrolites), and Jeremiah BenZion on an upcoming full length release for The Maytones. As well as Tribal Seeds' own E.N Young hosted Arise Roots in his Imperial Sound Recording Studio to record "Love & War." The group collaborated with E.N on one of the album's biggest songs, "A Little More," featuring E.N's soothing vocals, inspiring livity, and amazing melodica solo.

"I've heard quite a few times there's one particular thing that helps keep the fire lit within me which is that a band like Arise Roots is something that this scene needs... And I really don't want to say that in an arrogant way at all but I've heard it a few times especially being on tour. So hearing that definitely motivates me, inspires me to keep going, to do more, to go further, go harder, to go stronger," singer Karim says. "When it comes to this whole scene I'm very honored and happy to be a part of it and when I hear something like that it definitely gives me motivation to go harder." Todd chimes in, "I dig on it when people tell me the music has effected their lives in a positive way. Like I've had people that come up to me and say 'Better Man' repaired my relationship - that's awesome! I feel really good to know that!" 

"We share common ground as a group of people with this positive message in reggae music. That's one of the things I love most of all about reggae music." Bassist Rudy says. "This music is communal, it's a shared experience. It's important." Karim elaborates "We (Arise Roots) are all music lovers first so the same thing that people tell me they are getting from our music I get from other music, so it's a cycle. To me it's two sides of an equation, you need both sides for it to work. We are part of this whole reggae music scene and I'm honored to be contributing to it, but take that away we are still fans of it and still part of it."

Arise Roots and the entire reggae community strive to share more positivity with the world and show no signs of letting up. Constantly "moving forward" they anticipate more major tours, bigger live shows, growing strength, and having more positive influence. "There's a connection we have with, I don't even call them fans, with people. We love having a connection with people. It's about the people..." Karim concludes. "It's a type of shared consciousness where we all go through the same things so we are just giving our perspective of it with our little spin. If you dig on it then great, but if not - no harm no foul, but those people we do connect with and do resonate with... man, we are so thankful, it's a cool thing."

Black Bottom Lighters coming for '2 or 2000' - can you dig it?

The Arizona desert bestows one of their greatest local music gifts in recent memory with the release of Black Bottom Lighters debut LP, '2 or 2000!' The title indicating the band's desire to bring their message and music to a crowd of 2 or 2000, 10 or 10,000, 20 or 20 million... Their message none other than proving yourselves worthy through hard work, perseverance, and God-given talent. The bass bumping, drum thumping, steady rocking, smooth styling rhythms highlighted throughout the 14 all-original tracks set-up a strong foundation for the band's very bright future.

Since issuing their self-titled EP in 2012 they've been quite busy growing as people, developing their sound as a band, and living their lives. Their new album efforts who they are now with "conscious music," their guitar player/vocalist T calls it. He says, "It's all about what we're living and real stuff - a lot of our new music has a positive message... we just want to influence people in a positive way, put good music out in the world, and do what we love." Front man Stilly iterates, "We wanted to establish what we are now. We sat down and made sure everything was original and made a conscious effort to make everything that we are."

The Black Bottom Lighters were able to to partner up with the 93.9 KWSS morning show TMI with Beef Vegan to release their new song "Carousel" for a free download competition on Reverb Nation. Hard Rock Cafe and Reverb Nation teamed up for an international contest among thousands of bands and Black Bottom Lighters were fierce contenders. After live performance reviews and additional download release "We Were Here" they nearly won the grand prize of an all-inclusive trip and play Hard Rock Rising Music Festival in Rome, Italy. They did earn themselves a slot among bands Jimmy Eat World, 30 Seconds to Mars, Stone Temple Pilots, Pepper, The Dirty Heads at the Big Ticket Music Festival in Jacksonville, FL. They've also been featured at numerous Southwest music festivals Wild Wild West Fest, Uplift Music and Arts Festival, Unity Festival, True Music Festival, McDowell Mountain Music Festival, Apache Reggae Jam, and Tempe Beach Park with headliners Rebelution and Atmosphere.

Strangely enough in the midst of the Reverb Nation/Hard Rock competition their drummer McPhatty suffered a snowboarding accident to his elbow and was unable to use his left arm, but that didn't stop him! He pulled a full Rick Allen (Def Lepard's infamous one-armed drummer) and played through the injury down one drumstick! It was an example of the band's perseverance over obstacles. Frontman Stilly said, "You gotta be confident in who you are and stick to your guns. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do anything. We wouldn't be (where we are now) if we didn't."

Essentially they want to give their fans their money's worth while living the life they love. Stilly has become a father, a soon-to-be husband, and entrepreneur by starting HEINA clothing. He designs custom men's and women's tanks, shirts, hoodies, shoes - even coffee tables! Their guitarist Philly Cheese you won't find anywhere on social media. "People hound me everyday to get one," he explains. "Life is real without it - I'm not a social kinda person. If I do end up getting one ever, my name would be different and it would be strictly for music." Bassist/vocalist, Jose, really stepped up his harmonies and also his guitar playing. During their "Smoked Out Sessions" at Copper Blues, a popular rock pub where the band is featured at their Phoenix and Tempe locations regularly, Jose plays entire sets on guitar and vocals with T and Phil both taking turns on bass. It also happens to be where they recorded their live acoustic album that is still yet to be released.

However, what has been released shows a collective progression of the band's abilities. The first 15 seconds of '2 or 2000' is complete silence. Maybe a chance to save on your car insurance? Maybe calling their shot for their "15" minutes of fame? Whatever the case may be the keys, guitars, and drums soon ring in and then the bass takes a little walk. The Intro takes the listener for about a minute and a half heart pumping, adrenaline rushing ride! It runs right into rock ballads "Rockin and Rollin" and "Carousel' to continue stirring it up. Then comes the lady killer, "Lil Mama!" This song strums the ladies' heartstrings with a great call and response with Stilly, Phil, T and Jose all harmonizing. In the studio and on stage Phil and Jose switch guitar and bass next on "Changes," yet another way for them to symbolize how the band can remain diligent in their versatility while singing about change in world. And they keep it going with "Herbal Essence," a retooled song from the BBL vault. As is "Can't Take Me," originally recorded acoustic on the Arizona Appetizer. The song "Astronauts" has self-explanatory uplifting references and assuming ears can relax to the vibrations. The deep message of "How Good" encourages people to look out for each other, spreading good feelings, and ultimately is what the band is about in a nutshell. It was even featured on the NFL Network during the week of the Super Bowl! Sublime-esque "Language of My Soul," powerful but subtle "No Time to Lose," lost love provoked song "Liar," and the aforementioned single/ballad "I'm Still Here" round out the track listings.

The overall talent and the production really shine throughout the album! The release needed to prove not only the album's credibility but their own. They took the CD release to the state of the art Live Wire, a very near sell out crowd at the center of the Entertainment District in Old Town Scottsdale, AZ. The location a highlight itself, Black Bottom Lighters being the first Arizona local to headline the impressive, brand-new venue. The sound, light, and stage productions were phenomenal and the band invited friends all over the state of Arizona and all over the country (as far as Florida) to come share the success with them. The moment of most importance was the amazing support received when they took the stage. The energetic frontman Stilly, threw himself into the crowd to stage dive - except something was notably different about it this time. He says, "I've staged dove before and it was kinda half-assed but this time it was super clean, they caught me, they were all there like a trust exercise."

In the language of symbolism that is exactly what the CD and CD release amounted to; one big trust exercise. The band gave the fans everything they had. Then when they didn't have anymore to give the Black Bottom Lighters dug deeper in themselves, giving even more than they thought they could initially and came out champions. The crowd caught Black Bottom Lighters that night and will carry them on going forward. '2 or 2000?' It's beginning to look a lot more like 2000 these days, but humble beginnings and tremendous growth that make it that much more 'Warrior'-like... "Can you dig it?"

The Beautiful Girls and Mat McHugh continue the ingenuity with the release of "Dancehall Days"

The Beautiful Girls - a blended evolution of reggae, folk, dancehall, and funk. It's a combination of sitting down and relaxing with the compulsion to groove across a room. Mat McHugh is the 'man behind the curtain' so-to-speak. He's the front man and songwriter of The Beautiful Girls while his alter egos include Mat McHugh and the Blackbird, Mat McHugh and the Seperatista Soundsystem, as well as his most recent moniker, Ras Mateo. He says, "I'm just a creative person and like creating things. Names, songs, pictures, drawings..."

This Australian surfer is not only a gifted artist but is a fiercely independent one at that. "From the start I chose to go down the path of letting the music speak for itself. In that way, nobody was tricked into liking it but has formed an honest connection. I think those kind of connections last longer and are far more real. Mostly nowadays we just try and let people know via social media or word of mouth."

No gimmicks, nothing hidden - just an abundance of love and appreciation that pours out in his music. His music influenced by none other than his family. "Everything integrates," he says. "There is no separation between the songs I write and the life I live. They are my priority and my reason for living." His own mother contributed to the making of his solo album "Love Come Save Me." On his Instagram feed he explained, "I had to borrow a whole bunch of money against my mum's house. And then, she was totally cool with me giving the album away." That's right! He borrowed money to make an album to give away for free!

Figuratively, in the same breath he continues, "My stance is, if you can't afford it you should pirate it. If you can afford it, you should buy it. Making albums costs money and for music to continue musicians have to eat, but there might be a kid out there who can't afford music who, if given access, might one day change the world with theirs... Hopefully I can continue to make music as a way of supporting (my family) but if I have to do something else to make sure they're comfortable, I will."

This Aussie has released 5 full length albums, 3 Extended Plays (EPs), several singles and compilations - including a remix of Mat McHugh solo and Beautiful Girls songs he gave away to pledgers in the assist of making of the newest "Dancehall Days" album. The best part is that there's even MORE to his arsenal/ discography! Mat's solo material really strips him back into a personal space. In 2008 he recorded "Seperatista" as a collection of ideas and it lead to the previously mentioned "Love Come Save Me" free download in 2010. He also has singles with extra tracks on the "Go, Don't Stop" and "More Money" releases as well as a live recording, "Live at Random Hall." All of which range from an intimate, acoustic relaxation to an upbeat, heart-pumping rhythm that really hits. 

Being from Australia he tours internationally when he can. He explained, "Being an independent business means having to work out the financial details of potential touring. If it costs too much money to play a show (after I've paid for the band, accommodations, etc), then no matter how much I would love to play there I just can't do it."  Having a large surfer audience he has a loyal following in Brazil. He says, "I think people had heard of my songs there through friends that had traveled (to Australia) and from surf movies which are, obviously, watched by surfers everywhere." 

On the band's Facebook he announced over the next couple months he is working on a FREE follow up to "Love Come Save Me," touring to support its release, and even some overseas shows & festivals. Per Mat, describing several soldout shows on his most recent Australian tour have been "absolutely some of the best we've ever experienced." It goes to show that even with minimal radio play, social media advertising, and word of mouth their audience is expanding. People are catching on and becoming amazingly passionate for independent, original music.

Tribal Seeds titled their latest LP "Representing" because it's what they're doing in today's music scene

Roots are a foundation and anchor for all plants but to reggae fans roots it's a little different. Roots are not only a type of amazing music - they are also a foundation of peace, anchor of unity, but most importantly the basis of Love. Reggae rockers Tribal Seeds bring the roots message in their latest musical masterpiece 'Representing.' They are spreading like a wildfire, debuting #1 on Billboard, Amazon, and iTunes Reggae charts and moved into the Billboard Top 200 (142)! It goes to show how much support and popularity they have gained since joining the San Diego reggae community in 2005.

'Representing' led off with the title track and drew out the primary focus of the band - the Rastafari movement, the holy trinity, along with ancient Olmec heritage. An Olmec head sculpture is featured on the album cover aside a Mayan pyramid. Along with the Great Sphinx of Giza separated by water. All symbols of sacrifice and appreciation in their respective archaic civilizations. Tribal Seeds holds up 'Representing' as their sacrifice to their 'Creator'. They state this with 'Moonlight' singing:

"We play for no one but the plants and creatures,
I see Jah glory from the rise of the morning sun

We're jamming in the moonlight...
Hear the soundwaves by the seaside
We don't need to play for anyone"

 Tribal Seeds brings "I in I" with several guest appearances. "I in I"  is all people in the belief that the Holy Spirit within all people makes us one and the same. This essential roots vibe is established with Vaughn Benjamin from Midnite to lead off "Representing," then the signature Slightly Stoopid voice Kyle McDonald with steady rockin' "In Your Area." They go to new heights with the reggae legend Mykal Rose in "Herbstock," then bring in youthful and spirit-filled New Kingston and feature their very own Gonzo on "Fill It Up." Tribal Seeds keyboardist and co-founding member, Maad T-Ray (Tony Ray Jacobo), intends to open eyes in "Rock the Night" by addressing classroom conformity and misrepresented history. Instead, emphasize on youth guidance and encouragement with overwhelming faith, roots, and Love. Keeping them fixated on our good works with a collection of 12 reggae ballads. 

Tribal Seeds has become more profound as they have continued adding to the depths of the band. The strong and steady bass of Victor Navarro and the hard hitting - yet smooth as silk drumming techniques of Carlos Verdugo are the bass thumping backbone of the band. The musical exhalation and distinct voice of the band by Stephen Jacobo is indeed the band's signature. Yet Tribal Seeds' most recent line-up additions, lead guitarist and serene vocalist Gonzo and peace-loving, reggae specialist E.N Young, have also brought their massive talents to round out this reggae conglomerate.

Just a few short weeks after Tribal Seeds released "Representing," Gonzo released his sophomore solo album "Red" on E.N Young's Roots Musician Records. Impressive beats with his band Beyond I Sight are displayed throughout the collection of originals. Enhancing the sound waves was not only E.N Young, as featured in "Fallin" and "Roots Woman," but also Hawaiian rhyme slayer Koa Lopes (Inna Vision bassist and front man), movement leader Pedro from True Press and co-producer of "Red," as well as Beyond I Sight bassist, Alex Gammill also known as Roots In Peace. They all bring the good, strong vibes and bring Gonzo's follow-up effort his most audacious songwriting yet. Imperial Sound Studio Owner/Engineer/Producer, Roots Musician Records proprietor, Tribal Seeds keyboardist/vocalist/grand pianist E.N Young agreed. In fact I sat down with him for a few minutes on his Roots Musician showcase tour featuring Gonzo, himself, and promising new Tongan roots artist, Leilani Wolfgramm. All of them came on strong, backing each other and all of them were backed by prodigious Beyond I Sight. The show was amazing in it's own right - seeing and hearing them all collaborating the sweet reggae sounds, but looking to see where that family element becomes pivotal and exactly how it was all made possible was the true highlight of the evening. Big ups to those like Tribal Seeds, ReRooted and The Sound Pot for supporting the movement and keeping roots moving forward! Now you'll really want to read this exclusive I was so fortunate to capture:

1) Tribal Seeds, tell me what's the first thing you think about when hearing those words?

 E.N Young: I think of this band that's pushed this positive message, changing people's lives around the world. Tribal Seeds means a lot to me, they've helped build my career and believed in me to produce them and I'm extremely grateful to be connected with them.

2) 'Representing' was released in May and has taken over the ears of all Tribal Seeds fans!! Seeing how it was engineered and mixed by you at Imperial Sound Recording. What was the most exciting part for you with this release?
 

 E.N Young: The most exciting was being a part of that fresh energy of coming out with the new record because it had been such a long time since Tribal Seeds had released a full record. I got onboard and joined the band then comes Gonzo and that was it! It just lit the sparks, something had started and we could feel it! We were writing in hotel rooms and recording on the bus - sometimes outside the bus in the middle of the day - everywhere we could! The highlights were definitely the hustle being on it and putting out the record, and things have been really great! It's turned out really good!

3) Your Imperial Sound Recording Studios has become a very busy destination in today's reggae recording. Tribal Seeds, Gonzo, Skank Roots Project, Thrive, Inna Vision, True Press, Beyond I Sight, Leilani Wolfgramm, Clear Conscience, Tatanka, Arise Roots, Hirie, Mystic Roots, Animo, just to name a few - have flocked to your studio to capture their music. How does this make you feel? Have you reached your goal with this studio? 

 E.N Young: I stopped playing solo because I wanted to build my studio and build the record label and I really felt like I had a talent that I could produce and share with people. Then suddenly I joined Tribal Seeds in 2012 and that happened really fast. I set goals to have a successful studio and record label and I'm living it so much that right now it sort of feels unreal, you know? (laughs) I'm seeing the success happening so quickly it's getting bigger and bigger! There are great albums coming out (of Imperial Sound Studio) with the idea of collaborating and bringing together more music, the music is going to keep getting better and better! Especially with Tribal Seeds and my own solo thing I've got going on.  
 

4) Tribal Seeds has become such a pivotal influence within the reggae community. Every tour seems to be generating bigger crowds, more 'buzz' and more family vibes within the touring bands (Slightly Stoopid, Stick Figure, The Expanders, Fortunate Youth, Through the Roots, The Steppas, Inna Vision and New Kingston to name a few). Why do you think this is? How can you describe what is happening?
   

E.N Young: That all comes from the top down, the origin of Tribal Seeds - the Jacobo brothers. T-Ray and Stephen they are that family vibe. They knew when they came up and needed support so they're helping others come up who need that support. And after touring the country with (Tribal Seeds) the crowds have been getting bigger and bigger at the shows! More success, bigger venues and it all feels really special, I'm so blessed - with everything that's going on in my life right now with the studio and the label. So blessed!  
  

5) Speaking of Fortunate Youth, last year Tribal Seeds introduced longtime FY member Gonzo (aka Ryan Gonzalez, solo singer/songwriter and current front man for Beyond I Sight) as lead guitarist for the Kicking Up Dust Tour with Slightly Stoopid and Atmosphere. At the time it was unclear if it was a temporary move. As of now his talents on the mic and guitar have been incorporated into the live show and also featured throughout 'Representing.' I saw in an interview with the band that this was a permanent change. How was his inception into the band brought about and where do you see this reggae-'super-group' heading?
 

E.N Young: I'll start from the beginning - Gonzo came and recorded an album with me at my studio. He straight told me that I had my own solo record so he wanted to record his own solo record too. That was a really special feeling when he told me that. So I produced 'Rocksteady' for him and that was an amazing process. He kind of reached out for guidance on what he should do so he linked up with Beyond I Sight and started touring. When Tribal Seeds needed a guitarist he stood out to me because bringing him in would add another singing element and it would be 4 of us singing and that would be a big sound. He came in on the first day knowing all the tunes and we were all singing 3-4 part harmonies on the first day. It does feel like a 'super group' - like an All-Star team so we are all extremely grateful and thankful we're all together. 

6) Speaking of Gonzo - you both set a very strong precedent with 'Rocksteady' and now after listening to it's follow-up, 'Red,' I think it's very bold - like the color red - making a bold statement and brings an even stronger and heavier vibe than it's predecessor in my opinion. Do you agree/disagree? Why? 
 

E.N Young: Well with 'Rocksteady' Gonzo was kind of new to it, fresh. He came in with songs but not entirely done and some real solid ideas but we went with the vibe. I played a lot of the instruments and wrote songs on the spot. It was really good! I liked 'Rocksteady' a lot but with 'Red' he was more mature and it shined through on 'Red!' Beats are hard and phat and his songwriting gets in your face and it's right there but on a more mature level. I think that's what you're feeling.

7) The Tribal Seeds are heading back out on the road for a Fall tour with Gonzo and Beyond I Sight so what are you looking foward to with getting back out there?
 

E.N Young: Well this is the first time I've played solo in 2+ years, playing with Through the Roots in San Diego. Then I chose to build my studio, Imperial Sound Recording, and my record label, Roots Musicians Records, and full time with recording and joining Tribal Seeds. I kind of put my music on hold and that's one thing I'm looking forward to. Really getting out there, playing festivals, and shows aside of Tribal Seeds and even within with Gonzo and Beyond I Sight. My goal is to spread more of my message and that's unity, peace, and Love. I want to be on the frontlines spreading that message. 

8) I want to do some word association with the next few, first words that pop in your head after:

    A) Roots? The foundation, something to keep us strong and grounded to the Earth.

    B) Youth? Need to be taught, engaged, and cared for so they can grow up and live

    C) Love? The foundation of creation, the basis of life. We live in Love, we die in Love. We really need to embrace Love.

    D) Family? Is something to help us, to get through tests in life and have someone with us in time of struggle and in time of good.

    E) Future? It's what we need to fight for to keep going. Keep future positive with Love, and peace, and good works.

9) In 2010 you enhanced our collective subconscious with the message of peace and Love on your first solo release, "Luck and Chance No More." After putting such profound tracks like 'Love, Love, Love' and 'Eye of the Storm' available for download on the Roots Musician samplers, fans are ready for more! You must have something big planned, anything you can tell us about yet?

E.N Young: I do have my new album coming out that I'm excited for! It's called "Live, Love, and Stay Up" and it's going to be out in a month and a half - it's very close. It's going to be 9-11 songs and 3 discs with dub versions and acoustic versions. So stay close because they're coming very soon!!

Stick Figure, Hirie, and Pacific Dub 'Livin' It' on their national Fall tour

It was the first day of the first national Stick Figure Livin' It tour in Flagstaff, AZ. Along for the ride are San Diego based reggae pop sensation HIRIE and Huntington Beach rockers Pacific Dub. The bands hadn't even arrived yet but there was a thick sense of ease at The Green Room, a great venue with a great stage mere feet away from historical Route 66. The mountain town had a vibrant energy and the music was going to take it to another level!

Stick Figure just wrapped up the Count Me In Tour with Rebelution, Iration, and The Green in sold out amphitheaters and auditoriums throughout the nation! They were eager to ride the momentum they've gained with their recent singles - releasing a new adaptation of fan favorite "Livin' It" from the "Smoke Stack" album and their summer 'hit' "Smokin' Love" featuring Collie Buddz. Stick Figure and Collie Buddz are stoked to be playing a few shows on a Hawaiian voyage through Honolulu, Kona, Maui, and Kauai right after the end of the Livin' It tour.

HIRIE has also been riding her own momentum since the release of self-titled release from Roots Musician Records September last year. Thanks to her supporters on Kickstarter, HIRIE was able to tour with Tribal Seeds and Fortunate Youth last year and was a focal point on the The California Roots Carolina Sessions 2013, so much so it earned her an opening slot on the 3rd and final day of California Roots 2014 on the Cali Roots stage! She's also been playing a lot of great California shows and regional festivals throughout California, Utah, and Arizona adding to her already growing fan-base.

Pacific Dub spent the last two summers on the road raging in front of HUGE crowds on Vans Warped Tour 2013 and 2014!! Unfortunately the last week of this year's Warped Tour someone stole the band's trailer but that didn't slow down the Pac Dub crew. Their positive message would not be stopped - they were able to finish the tour and gear up to join Stick Figure and HIRIE in Flagstaff, AZ for the Livin' It Tour kickoff!!

The northern Arizona college town was excited for the evening of reggae rock! HIRIE set the pace for the night; her band was eager to give the concert-goers more than their money's worth. They smashed their set and the crowd was electrified as they ran through familiar and brand new tunes, the people were ready for more but Pacific Dub shortly followed and continued the strong vibes. Their positivity echoed the concert venue and their directive was gladly received as the crowd roared! Finally Stick Figure came to bat as the heavy hitter of the evening. Kbong, Stick Figure's keyboardist and backing vocalist who recently released his full length album (Hopes & Dreams) was the driving force of the night. Perpetuating the vibes and flowing impressively on the mic, while the rhythm section was flawless (Tommy Sulliman- bass and Kevin Offitzer- drums). Stick Figure front-man, Scott Woodruff, was feeding off the energy from the band and the crowd but was not feeling well. The next night of the tour in Albuquerque, NM Stick Figure called out but Kbong, HIRIE and Pacific Dub were still able to hold down the fort and bring the vibes.

The bands were not the only artists bringing the zeal, Erica Shaw and Haven Art Studios have joined the tour to collaborate their beautiful talents while the bands play. In the words of live artist Al Scholl, "Art is not a popularity contest... It is the voice of roots and culture and the path to positive change!" Truly amazing to see the love and positive energy throughout the crowd and the crews. There is a force of nature and spirit in their art. The tour embarks on California Roots: Carolina Sessions 2014 where the feelings and energies will be flowing even more so. If there's an opportunity to catch a stop on this tour, don't ignore it because life needs more of these experiences. Stick Figure, HIRIE, Pacific Dub, and Haven Art Studios will do their part, all you need to do is show up and the rest is easy.

Making a difference: Raising suicide awareness and giving tribute

Looking for value in a world of being 'nickel-and-dimed' to death a lot of people give up. So many people with mental illness. So many people out there hurting, some more apparent than others. People abusing children, people out there killing each other. Killing themselves... Scientists from Britain, Hong Kong and United States submitted a letter to The Lancet medical journal saying data from Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicated that while suicide rates increased slowly between 1999 and 2007, the rate of increase more than quadrupled from 2008 to 2010. There is a suicide every 13.3 minutes based on info from the American Association of Suicidology.

Suicide comes in all forms. Cries for help can be more apparent than we'd even think to realize. I have a compulsion to put on a concert for suicide awareness. Many of you may, and many of you may not, know that I have put on concerts since high school. First one was for a Sociology class project as a Junior, two more the next year. Putting together concerts in my adult years I was able to improve the quality of a girl's life suffering from lymphoblastic leukemia, also organized a holiday food drive.

This suicide awareness concert is going to be my most important effort yet!!! Once the details of the event come together I will be sure to share it. This is a cause near to my heart and I am making this happen!! Stay close friends, if there is anyone reading this having trouble and don't know where to turn please feel free to reach out to me, another friend/family member, or the Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for anonymous, professional assistance. Much Love to all friends and family, blessings to you!