Tag: music

GUEST POST: SLIGHTLY OFF-KILTER: SONGS FOR CREATING DEMONS BY BARRY MAHER

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Slightly Off-Kilter

Songs for Creating Demons

By Barry Maher

I listen to music when I write. This column for example is being created with the help of—or perhaps in spite of—a piece of music that seems to be an unfortunate blend of God Save the King and The Moldavan National Anthem. But creating my new supernatural thriller, The Great Dick: And The Dysfunctional Demon, a thriller that’s able to laugh at itself, (one reader called it “Horrifying and Delightful!”) required an even more horrifying type of music. Music like: 

Dust by Fleetwood Mac 

Fleetwood Mac? Aren’t they much too pop for horror? Actually Dust was from an early incarnation of Fleetwood Mac, with no hits and lots of drug problems, not the later version of the group with lots of hits and even more drug problems. The lyrics to Dust come from a 1909 poem by Rupert Brook, who was no bundle of sunshine.

“When your swift hair is quiet in death
And through the lips corruption
Thrust to still the labor of my breath”


Midnight Mile by the Rolling Stones. 

This haunting tune about a mad day on the road “with a head full of snow,” gets me picturing Keith Richards as the guitar playing, coked-up, walking dead. Perhaps not a huge stretch.


I Put a Spell on You by Screaming Jay Hawkins. Writing about obsession? 

Here’s Screaming Jay screaming that he doesn’t care if you don’t want him. It doesn’t matter to him at all. He’s still yours. A non-returnable gift that threatens to keep on giving.


She’s Not There by the Zombies

This one doesn’t make my list for the name of the group, but for the mood the music evokes. And the lyrics do have a touch of the sinister. In this British song, a mysterious woman is causing untold suffering, Like the singer, we can only wonder about how much she lied, with no way of telling “how many people cried.” I know what you’re thinking. But the song was released in 1965, considerably before Maggie Thatcher ever became Prime Minister.


No Bravery by James Blunt 

I thought this guy wrote love songs, but this one features shallow graves, burning houses, the odor of death, and dying families. I listen to this, then write horror to cheer up. 

Tie a Yellow Ribbon by Tony Orlando. Not a horror classic, just a horrible song. I can’t listen to it without dreaming of tying a yellow ribbon as tightly as possible around Tony Orlando’s neck. And I understand the reasoning of a homicidal demon.

Last and in so many ways least, Black Sabbath by Black Sabbath 

Apparently, Satan, with eyes of fire, is coming after the singer. That might explain the vocal. I think this one is from the Black Sabbath album Blue Skies, Sunny Days and Lollypops, or it may be from Kittens, Puppies and Other Easy Meals. To quote a key phrase, “Please, God help me.”

Take a listen. The singing sounds like a weasel caught in a meat grinder. The question this little ditty raises is more theological than musical. Namely: why would a loving God allow something like this to exist? And to somehow be a hit? When I first heard it on my car radio, I thought my transmission was disintegrating, but it was only humanity’s musical taste.

Check out Barry Maher’s dark humor supernatural thriller, The Great Dick: And the Dysfunctional Demon, on Amazon. Contact him and/or sign up for his newsletter at www.barrymaher.com. 


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Flowers for Juno “My Bloody Kisses” Single Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn music review, Music ReviewsLeave a comment

When someone is looking to really delve into music, they aren’t always looking for something that is lyrically emotional and powerful, but rather for something that is rhythmic and captures an atmosphere, as if setting the scene of a film that builds and builds until its big climax. That sense of atmosphere is what drives the latest single from industrial goth band Flowers for Juno, titled “My Bloody Kisses.”

Formed in 2023 by Benjó James, Flowers for Juno has released a single that speaks volumes while focusing less on lyrics and more on tone. The atmospheric nature that envelopes the reader when “My Bloody Kisses” first begins allows the reader to feel the drum beats in their chest, slowly vibing with the guitar synths and vocals that are audible yet purposely blurred to enable the listener to feel both surrounded and immersed in the scene this song is bringing to life. 

I loved the gradual way the song elevates and changes the tone of the synths and vocals to match the changing landscape of the music itself, forgoing the traditional structure and path that a song would follow, and instead building an intensity and emotional push that feels almost cinematic in quality, as if bleeding out of an indie film scene. Moody, haunting, and an indie vibe that refuses to quit, “My Bloody Kisses” is a compelling single that naturally blends the goth rock band’s sound with industrial and lo-fi tones, and naturally builds to a thrilling crescendo across the song’s 3-minute run-time. If you haven’t yet, be sure to stream the single today! 

Find Them Here: Spotify | Instagram |Facebook

Big Sexy “Here We Are” Single Review

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The music that makes an impact and leaves a lasting mark on the soul is that which resonates deeply and transcends multiple genres in an effort to capture a story that moves the listener. That is the impact American band Big Sexy achieves with their latest single, “Here We Are.”

The story of the song follows two dairy farmers from Minnesota, who meet as teenagers and grow together through the years until they reunite in their golden years. The lyrics are powerful, evoking the human connection that can occur when two people least expect it. The story also speaks to growth, both as individuals and together, as they each take on their respective paths and, through the good times and the bad, find one another. The story is a journey through life, friendship, and something more as two people grow together. 

The music itself was also moving. The vocals do a great job of blending the emotional progress of a singer/songwriter vibe with the familiar twang and heart of a country single. Yet the power of the song itself lies in the fusion of genres, bridging the gaps between the singer’s and songwriter’s styles of melodies, rock guitar riffs, and country bass and percussion that help drive home the more emotional aspects of the song. This balance of genres achieves something even more remarkable, though, which is to convey a story through the combination of powerful lyrics and heartfelt music. A song that speaks of love, friendship, and what it means to be human in this world, this song is the perfect song to lead into the fall season. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

https://www.instagram.com/alexgoroshko8/

Blade Rider by Jaime A. Sevilla Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young woman strives to be the first woman to become an Air Ranger and explore the cosmos in author Jaime A Sevilla’s “Blade Rider.”

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The Synopsis

In a future where stars map the last frontier and infinite space paves the road to dreams, Raven stands at the precipice of her world. In a vibrant, multi-species society filled with possibilities, she yearns to fly amongst the stars as an Air Ranger, an elite group of space pilots that navigate the cosmos and safeguard the world.

There’s only one catch: females aren’t allowed.

As Raven gets closer to her aspirations and learns what it takes to join them, she discovers lasting friendships, new challenges, and what it ultimately means to be a ranger.

Can Raven push beyond the boundaries of societal norms and break through the stratosphere of glass ceilings, or will her star-filled quest for acceptance remain out of reach? Join her on this high-stakes, interstellar ride and experience her exciting journey as she blazes her own path amongst the stars.

Based on the musical by Jaime A. Sevilla, Blade Rider spins an electrifying and poignant tale of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of dreams.

The Review

Immediately, what stood out to me about this incredible sci-fi novel was the seamless integration of music and songs into the narrative. As a companion to a musical album, the story naturally took on a lyrical style, not only infusing it with actual songs but also conveying intense emotional moments and powerful imagery throughout. The world-building and compelling character dynamics the story introduces helped balance the poetic quality of the author’s writing, which came to life on the page, and the music readers can listen to alongside it was equally mesmerizing and enthralling.

The heart of this narrative was in the strong themes the author explored. The sci-fi genre was very prevalent throughout this story, and the development of the Air Rangers, the politics and expectations that plagued the program, and the protagonist’s fight against them not only reflect problems in our own world but also showcase Raven’s evolution and growth as a protagonist. The compelling bond that forms between Raven and one of her allies in the story, and the way the narrative homes in on how both women and aliens are treated in this program, make the story so engaging and easy to get lost in.

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The Verdict

Harrowing, thrilling, and entertaining, author Jaime A Sevilla’s “Blade Rider” is a must-read (and must-listen to) sci-fi epic! The twists and turns, the inspiring and motivating themes, and the infusion of music, a hint of romance, and heart-pounding action will keep readers invested and eager to listen to the accompanying album. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy of this book on November 11th, 2025, or preorder your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Discover Jaime A. Sevilla, a lifelong musician, veteran educator, and accomplished composer who has skillfully combined his experience in the arts with music and storytelling as an emerging author.

With credentials from the Manhattan School of Music and New York University, his music has graced the stages of numerous concerts and festivals around the world. As both a musician and educator for over 20 years, Jaime has inspired countless students and audiences, working to cultivate a new generation of musicians.

His sources of inspiration include various types of caffeine, the soundtrack of cacophonous children (a daily remix), and his original music, which he eagerly shares with the world.

Connect with Jaime A. Sevilla for a glimpse into his exciting projects and explore his caffeinated world of music and literature.

https://jaimeasevilla.com/

https://amzn.to/476vSMe

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Eyal Erlich Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn music review, Music Reviews, reviewsLeave a comment

When a great band or artist comes around with a unique sound and a heartwarming voice, it doesn’t matter where the band comes from. Great music transcends borders, barriers, and languages. In artist Eyal Erlich, listeners can rest assured that a striking and powerful voice is ready to make a splash for international listeners. 

Hailing from Israel, the artist has made a name for themselves in the country, performing small, intimate shows that showcase a range of songs that are both heartfelt and engaging from the get-go. The artist does an incredible job of embodying what makes the singer/songwriter genre of music so great. The music feels personal, speaks to the everyday person living life, and explores what it means to be human in an ever-evolving world. 

The soft melodies are the first thing that draws listeners in. The songs themselves, which include “Already In”, “All in All”, “Jenny”, and my personal favorite, “I Wish I Knew”, all strike a balance between soft/classic rock, with narrative-driven lyrics that evoke the singer-songwriter vibes of the artist. The song “I Wish I Knew” in particular is a powerful song of love and loss, and the yearning we all feel to go back to the times in a relationship when that love was stronger and more deeply felt, but how too often pain and love lost on both sides make that an impossible future. 

The song “Already In” is a great song that showcases the powerful draw of love, whether at first sight or in that first meeting, and how that kind of powerful connection can draw a person in quickly and blindly, sometimes for good, and other times for naught. The song “Jenny” was a powerful song about that initial loss in a relationship. At the same time, “All in All” changed the tone of the song list with a grittier tone to the guitar riffs, showcasing the price of pursuing fame and what a person would do to be with the person they love most. The storytelling and melodic atmosphere each of these songs creates pierces the soul and stays with the listener long after these tracks end.

All in All (no pun intended), artist Eyal Erlich is a powerful vocalist and great musician that people should be listening out for. The emotional, compelling lyrics lend a great narrative tone to the overall music, and the steady, melodic rhythms will stay with audiences as the artist strives to bring their first full album to life in the coming years. If you haven’t yet, check out each of these tracks as they are performed live on the artists’ YouTube page, and be sure to follow the artist and stream their music now.

All in all https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhVb7uMee_M

Jenny https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uA2BYNJnX4I

Already in https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7pi6OpSKzfo

I wish I knew https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ci-Zb2iuOa4

https://www.instagram.com/eyalerlichmusic/

https://www.facebook.com/EyalErlichMusic

Andru Gomez’s “Drunk at Church” EP Review

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One of modern music’s greatest pastimes is that of the singer/songwriter. In the United States especially, indie artists have found a way to weave their unique sound and passion into iconic genres like folk and singer/songwriter to create a heartfelt and relatable album or EP that resonates with many people. One such artist out of Idaho named Andru Gomez is set to do just that with the upcoming release of his EP, “Drunk at Church.” 

It has a voice and a sound that blends the soulful tones of artists like Bob Dylan while still appealing to modern audiences with a grit and tone that evokes lighthearted fun and a depth of soul that speaks to the heart. The way this artist can shift from a simple yet prolific melody into a more thoughtful and nuanced vocal harmony will instantly draw listeners into the mix, eliciting the listener to get lost in the lyrics that straddle that line between humorous and profound. 

When listening to a new artist and their music, I often close my eyes and try to imagine what kind of other media I could imagine this music being utilized in. Songs off the upcoming EP, such as “In a Dream” and “75 75” could easily be used in shows such as Sons of Anarchy or Peaky Blinders, capturing both the wildness and gritty tones those dark dramas hold in such reverence while also capturing the cinematic quality of the songs, while other songs on the EP such as “Pope Song” had a very storyteller driven vibe, which almost reminded me of The Man Comes Around by Johnny Cash, which was featured in the introduction of 2004’s Dawn of the Dead. 

If you want to become enraptured and consume great lyric-driven and soulful indie music that is both singer/songwriter and Americana-driven, then look no further than Andru Gomez’s upcoming EP, “Drunk at Church”. The heart and passion the artist poured into the music and the rich diversity in each song’s delivery will stay with audiences and have them yearning for more from this artist. This EP’s release date is TBD, so follow the artist and be on the lookout for this EP soon. 

https://andrugomezmusic.com/

https://www.instagram.com/andrugomezmusic

LIFE STAGE “STAGE ONE” EP REVIEW

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn music review, Music ReviewsLeave a comment

One of the many joys of working with and reviewing great musicians and artists worldwide has to be the awe and wonder that comes from that initial discovery or first listening to a new piece of music. The adrenaline that pumps through your blood as the track plays and the music strikes like an arrow hitting a bullseye, capturing the energy and tone we, as listeners, look for in our music choices. That feeling drew me to the EP “Stage One” by Life Stage. 

Right out of high school, the progressive rock group first released this EP in 2009. The album perfectly reflects the exhilaration and thrill of a band discovering its place in the music scene. The ease with which each track transitions from heavy guitar riffs and heart-pounding drums to more cinematic, thoughtful tones of reflection made this a remarkable and heartfelt album. Each track captured the spirit of “epic” musicianship with introspective songwriting. 

The adrenaline-fueled guitar riffs and larger-than-life metal influences brought to mind bands like Metalica. In contrast, the softer, more progressive sounds and songwriting brought to mind bands like Pink Floyd, Coheed and Cambria mixed in a perfect fusion that is impossible to ignore. The album certainly keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, as the album challenges them to find the intricate details in each song while also keeping the pace of head-banging action that these songs elicit. 

While youthful in spirit, the album also captures a sense of maturity in its theme, which revolves around identity and showcases a sound and tone that screams originality. The tracks are each lengthy and keep the audience invested. One minute brings an almost late 1970s to early 1980s California rock vibe, and then the song transitions into a late 1980s and early 1990s heavy rock sound that is both entertaining and captive. If you want a new sound and a beautiful yet face-melting fusion of rock genres, you won’t miss Life Stage’s “Stage One” EP. Stream on your preferred platform today!

https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/lifestage/stage-one?fbclid=IwY2xjawIWZutleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHf-STK80WBexlSDo4ZbmhOfAMCF9AR1-sUAxg7acRFb_jgMhRV2OI6UgvQ_aem_jffzzfXxnj1ECgZ1fP_JtA

the moment between: Jersey Nights Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn music review, Music ReviewsLeave a comment

Whenever people are confronted by grief or loss, they often turn to memories to return to a time when they felt closest to that person. Those seemingly small, everyday moments that resonate with people across time after that person is gone make a deep impact on those who are left behind. That is the driving force behind artist the moment between’s first single, “Jersey Nights”. 

The single hits a deep, emotional tone throughout the entirety of the song, delving into the artists’s inspiration for their music, the sudden loss of their soulmate. The song begins with an almost bluesy, jazzy soul vibe as the singer on this track captures the tone of the lyrics so perfectly. Quickly the song transitions into a more uptempo, whirlwind of a melody, showing a clear fusion of almost Amy Winehouse meets Tegan and Sara and an almost nostalgic tone. 

The fast pace of the song and the pop rock sound that it encapsulates is a perfect juxtaposition to the grief and emotion that the song’s lyrics convey, and speak to the feeling of being overwhelmed and lost as the bright memories of the past collide with the harsh, hurtful realities of the present. Audiences will tune in for the soulful melodies and fast-paced tempo, but stay for the realatability and heart that the story found in this song seems to bring out in people. 

The artist behind this song found the perfect balance to capture this emotional trauma while also creating a song that is heartfelt and highlights the personal memories we hold onto when confronted by a sudden loss, where even an ice cream cone can hold a powerful memory to our hearts. This is a must-listen single that speaks to the creativity and the heart of this artist. 

https://www.instagram.com/the.moment.between

I Went Down To St. James Infirmary by Robert Harwood Review

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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinion are my own. 

Author Robert Harwood explores the origins and impact of a blues and jazz song on the twentieth century and beyond in the book “I Went Down to St. James Infirmary”.

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The Synopsis

I Went Down to St. James Infirmary is the quintessential jazz-blues song of the early twentieth century. Many major performing and recording artists have covered it, from Louis Armstrong and Jimmie Rodgers to Van Morrison and the White Stripes.

Infused with ego-driven angst and once considered obscene because of the song’s stark depiction of death and the portrayal of a seedy underworld inhabited by gamblers, pimps, loose women, and every sort of rounder, it has been adapted, rewritten, borrowed, stolen, attacked, revered, and cherished. In its heyday of the 1920s and ‘30s, when recordings and sheet music of St. James Infirmary were first packaged and marketed, the public could not get enough of it. Nearly a hundred years later, its allure remains.

Author Robert W. Harwood follows the song as it travels from its folk origins into the recording studios, performance stages, and law courts of America’s jazz era. Along the way he picks up a retinue of fascinating characters whose stories are as fascinating as the song itself. Infused with humor and supported by meticulous research, this groundbreaking book explores the turbulent and mysterious history of one of the most important and influential songs of the twentieth century.

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The Review

What a truly fascinating and engaging book. While I have always loved big band, jazz, and swing music, this particular song was not on my radar, so the exploration of the song and its impact on music and the world was so engaging. The author did a great job of exploring both the legends surrounding this song’s origins and the actual history, showcasing the drive to give each artist, no matter what origin, credit for their contributions to the music.

The overall drive and influence this book had on me as a reader was the exploration of how songs and music as a whole can impact a person or a society. The author wrote honestly and in detail, speaking to the cultural influences and divides that occurred with everything from minstrel shows to racism in the music industry (particular comments made to Louie Armstrong about his wife were shocking), as well as the multiple variations to the song as different artists added or removed lyrics. Artists went to court over changes, and copyright over the song emerged.

The Verdict

The history, culture, and detail found in author Robert Harwood’s “I Went Down to St. James Infirmary” made this song and the book so fascinating to read. The backstory behind each version of this song and the history of each person who contributed to its long and storied path will keep readers invested in this journey and coming back to the book time and time again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Robert W. Harwood currently lives on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. His interests include writing, music, and photography – passions he shares with his wife, book designer and typographer Pamela Woodland.

I Went Down To St. James Infirmary