The Strong, Weak, and Weary

KT blends a wide range of American roots ranging from Texas Two-step to Afro-Cuban rhythms on his new album “The Strong, Weak, and Weary”. KTs lyrics are front and center on these songs presenting his plain spoken and direct messages of love, loss and unity. The album opens with a shuffle “Make Love with Me” that would be perfectly at home on an Austin honky tonk dance floor. The song “Johnny Johnson” takes a left turn and presents the story of a gender identity journey from high school to adulthood all over a major key and upbeat tune; a very unique and unapologetic, nonjudgmental, take on modern life in America. 

Another great tune on the album is “Salvage” a ballad that let’s the listener feel the heartbreak of love lost, and love that is found again. The feel is almost southern California cool with KT’s distinctive arrangements. Our favorite track is “United We Stand”. It’s a country kicker with an upbeat and forward looking outlook on America while being critical of the current state of affairs, KT’s message is poignant and well put. It’s one of those songs that you can’t help having a great time listening to while also providing a powerful statement of equality and pride. KT sings “It’s a hard road to hoe, when there is no place Americans go, without finding hatred and anger everywhere.” The vocals are powerful and deliver the best performance on the album; reminiscent of Waylon Jennings and Merle Haggard without trying to duplicate the past. 

KT’s offerings on “The Strong, Weak, and Weary” showcase his prowess as a songwriter and have the kind of honesty not often found in today’s pop music. Many of these songs are ripe for the picking and could easily be found on a country album by a popular mega artist. Be sure to listen to KT on your favorite music services and on the Music Life Now Spotify playlist

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Cool Company

Old school, cool, funk vibes that get the speakers bangin’ and bootys movin. Cool Company’s latest single Foatin’ features a deep drum and bass groove, horns, and vocals that provide a time machine of sound. The duo has a knack for finding the pocket and staying right in it. This track features vocals by Philadelphia based Soul Pop artist Nic Hanson. The combination has us hooked on this low key dance record. Definitely check it out on the Music Life Now Spotify playlist as well as the bands website which also has some great merch too! 

Cool Company 

Nic Hanson 

EXUM

Midnight pop that tempts the senses with visions of inner voices and demons with “Dark Kept Secret”. EXUM provides a moody synth pop jam in a minor key. “I am the voice of your demons, I’m leaving”. The track has an infectious drum beat and enough ear candy to keep you listening as the repetitive chorus seeps into your consciousness and leaves an unsettled sense of wonder. Is this track reminding us of an emotional break up, dropping the cross of addiction, or maybe something more sinister? We don’t know, we have this one on repeat… also check out the video on YouTube.

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The Best Things

Neo Soul duo Kindred the Family Soul, aka Kindred, deliver an uplifting message with their latest single “The Best Thing”. The lyrics remind the listener to look inward not outward to find the love and joy in life. The importance of family and life balance are front and center in this gentle verse beautifully sung by Aja Graydon. With lyrics like “It’s so easy to lose focus in this world we live, it’ll have you feeling like you ain’t worth a damn… so much love surrounding you, you can find joy in the moment”. She reminds us to look for what really matters in the modern world of endless wants that can take such a toll on people. As the chorus sweeps in, Sja is joined by Fatin Dantzler. Their beautiful blending of voices is a trademark of the group. The beat features a latin vibe with minimal percussion, flamenco style guitar and smooth synths that create a soulful foundation for the duo’s soaring vocals. Hopefully “The Best Things”  will be featured on an upcoming EP or album from this royal family of R&B. Until then, be sure to check out their popular songs on Spotify and also their new live event and web series “Kindred Presents” a live event and web series that focuses on interviews and performances by black artists. 

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Website: Kindred Presents