Music: Interview with talented singer and musician Jef Joslin (California Soul)

What I love most about having an Indie blog is discovering new artists and sharing their talent! Our newest music interview is with talented singer and musician Jef Joslin. And, definitely, his music needs to be shared and find its place in world! Hear and learn more about Jef here!

Jef, tell us a little about yourself, where are you from and what is your background?

 

I am a southern fella originally from TN. I grew up with a natural inclination towards art and music, but spent most of my years playing sports. It wasn't until my latter years of high school in 2003-04 that I started to really dig into writing and recording. I received a full scholarship as a quarterback and was then that I reached a crossroads and made the switch to music as a career pursuit. 

 

That's a big switch, from sports to art! I'm sure glad you did it, because your music is awesome.

What genre do you consider yourself and who is your greatest influence?

I refer to my music as California soul. It's like if Stevie Wonder and Brian Wilson had a baby. Both Stevie and the beach boys are massive influences in what I do. Anything Motown, James Taylor, John Mayer, etc...

 

It has a really nice, cool beat. Do you compose your songs? If so, what is your source of inspiration to compose? 

Yes. Anything that moves me as an experience. Deeper truths of life, love, struggle, hope etc. I try and pull from real experiences, real raw emotions. My main focus is to be a mirror for the listener. Something they can see themselves in and their true identity as beautifully unique individuals. 

 

That's great inspiration! When did you start singing/playing?

Started singing as early as I could open my mouth, but was a bit shy for a while to do it publicly. Started playing piano at 4 and guitar at 10. Didn't really start to write and perform publicly until my latter high school years, expect for the occasional school/church vocal competitions in elementary/middle school. 

Seems like your calling for music preceded your talent for sports! And I'm sure your fans are really happy about that. Talking about fans, what do you enjoy the most between the interaction with your fans? 

I love relating to them on a personal level. I want to remind them of who they are and their potential for accomplishing anything they believe in. It's always a blessing to be given a platform in which to tell people how loved they truly are.

Jef's new album cover

You're really motivational too! And what are your plans for the coming year? 

I am releasing a new album this year, a few music videos and also starting to record the next one which is already a complete thought. Completely written and formulated. Very excited about that one. By far my best work to date. 

 

We can't wait to hear! I bet it is. And we need to know where can we find your music!

Any digital outlet - itunes, Spotify, Google play, Youtube etc... Also on my website jefjoslin.com

 

Excellent! Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

Just keep doing whatever it is that makes you happy. Believe in your dreams. They already believe in you. 

Thanks, Jef, it's been a pleasure to feature you and your music! Good luck to you and much success!

 

 

To find more about Jef and interact with him:  

 

Website: Http://jefjoslin.com

Facebook: Http://facebook.com/jefjoslin

Twitter: Http://twitter.com/jefjoslin

Instagram: Http://instagram.com/jefjoslin

Art: Unique Project joins Photography and Writing - KSHM Project

What happens when a talented, inspiring author writes about amazing images taken by an award winning photographer? A unique project is born. The KSHM Project. 

"The KSHM Project is the result of a joint collaborative effort between an award-winning Australian photographer, Karl Strand, and an American author, Henry Martin. Aiming to combine striking visual images with thought-provoking prose, the goal for this project is to create one-of-a-kind tales that delve deep into the human consciousness, while addressing some of the struggles our contemporary society faces. Our work ranges from short vignettes and captions to complete short stories," the artists state about their project.

There are currently four free installments published on all major ebook channels, so you should take advantage of the artists' generosity, and download this beautiful collection of short stories and amazing photographs.

What readers are saying:

"Great story. I don't know what I can even say since it's so short and anything is likely to be a spoiler.  It definitely evokes feelings. Give it a try. It will only take a few minutes. See if it surprised you the way it did me."

"Henry Martin and Karl Strand have teamed up on a unique project. Martin has written several short stories  which are inspired by unique and haunting pictures taken by Strand. I love short stories. I think it's an art to be able to tell a story and elicit strong emotion in the short story format. In order to avoid spoilers, I will say  "Waiting" is the story of a man who waits to spend time with a young girl. The ending packs a punch and is totally unexpected. Martin is wonderful at writing about the dark side of the human condition. This is a story of torment and "Waiting". 

"It's not easy to review this short story associated with a picture without giving spoilers. I'd just say

the words are conducive to the picture, and the author plays with it skillfully, steering the readers into a quite surprising outcome."

This is a unique project, and a great opportunity for you to check out author Henry Martin's thought provoking prose, and enjoy the amazing images of photographer Karl Strand. Enjoy! And don't forget to write a review!

Links for download on Amazon:  

http://www.amazon.com/Waiting-KSHM-Project-Book-1-ebook/dp/B00R79C74Y/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8

http://www.amazon.com/Phone-Booth-KSHM-Project-Book-ebook/dp/B00R8P7VNE/ref=pd_sim_sbs_kstore_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=19STDMH46RHEE213KA91

http://www.amazon.com/Four-Vignettes-Project-Henry-Martin-ebook/dp/B00RAQ98YQ/ref=pd_sim_sbs_kstore_2?ie=UTF8&refRID=03PYFNHTJEMZFR5Z98Q0

http://www.amazon.com/Elusive-Realities-KSHM-Project-Book-ebook/dp/B00TZ9Z9MG/ref=asap_bc?ie=UTF8

For more of Henry Martin's writing:

http://mad-days-of-me.blogspot.com

http://www.amazon.com/Henry-Martin/e/B001JCCFNI/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_1 

For more of Karl Strand's photography:

http://www.karlstrandphotography.com.au/ 

https://www.facebook.com/karlstrandphotography 

Books: Reviews of New Indie Authors - Discover a new favorite!

Here are some reviews from Indie writers' books, which I enjoyed discovering. Different genres for different tastes, so pick one you like and give it a try, you might find your new favorite author here! And when you do, please don't forget to write a review! All of them are available on Amazon. Thank you for supporting Indie writers! "No two persons ever read the same book." (Edmund Wilson).

Reaching Kendra - Edward M. Wolfe

I just finished reading Reaching Kendra (I prefer Kendra Spirit, which is the name of another edition) and I'm not sure if I'm happy or sad with the ending. But not in a bad way. This story will keep me thinking for a while. It's provocative and creative, and I was not expecting the twist. The premise of the undying love is great and left me wanting more. Wolfe does a great job building the characters and the suspense. The scene with the suicide bomber is vividly descriptive, and wonderfully written. I was drawn to the characters from the very beginning and could feel the emotions, the sadness, the separation. Although Keith sounds selfish at times, you can only wonder what kind of emotions he was going through when faced with the horrible truth about the love of his life, never wanting to let go. A great love story.

http://www.amazon.com/Reaching-Kendra-Edward-M-Wolfe-ebook/dp/B00KYIEVGM/ref=cm_cr-mr-img


The Ringmaster's Gambit - Yannis Karatsioris

It's a circus you won't forget! I loved this second installment of "The Game" series, sequel to "The

book of the Forsaken." The book has a myriad of supernatural characters, skillfully described and each having a specific role to play in the overall plot of this ingenious story. It's one of those books you can't put down, full of adventure, action and mysteries. Thumbs up for Karatsioris for great imagination and story telling! This book was even better than the first and I can't wait to read further into the series.

http://www.amazon.com/The-Ringmasters-Gambit-Game-ebook/dp/B00EXLZH5U/ref=cm_cr-mr-title


A Knock on a Door - Christos Kallis

A Knock on a Door is a poetry book in which the poet was able to conjure up a collection of poems that will make you think, and are imbued with deep thoughts, albeit also sprinkled with irony and sarcasm. The words are used in a free verse style that is easy to read, for example: "The black rose kept falling from my hands, I had to sacrifice its beauty to reach that victorious peak" from the poem entitled An Apple. Two of my favorites are A letter to Aeschylus and A Million Dollar Smile - "There amongst the chaos and behind her ribs, A beast sat passively in its lair." Excellent use of figurative language and vivid imagery. Great job, and I will be looking for the next poetry book from Mr. Kallis.

http://www.amazon.com/A-Knock-On-Door/dp/1849635803/ref=tmm_pap_title_0


Echo of Heartbreak, A Recipe for Life - Carol Ann Kauffman

A very nice, inspiring book, that tells the story of a very strong woman who decides to go along with 

her much wanted pregnancy against all odds. And, expecting the worse, she decides to leave her unborn daughter a recipe for life, a journal with advice to help her understand life and receive the motherly knowledge she would miss. The inclusion of real food recipes was a delicious touch to the story. I'm looking forward to trying the mushroom and spinach fritatta! A moving story full of life advice for everyone.

http://www.amazon.com/Echo-Heartbreak-A-Recipe-Life-ebook/dp/B00ES2H0BS/ref=cm_cr-mr-title

Music: Interview with Indie alternative pop band Eat Crepes

We have new music to start the year with great vibration! Introducing the awesome Eat Crepes! Yes, that's the band's name, not a restaurant! And since you're very curious to find out about the great sound they produce, let's hear them out! By the way, make sure to give them a like on their Facebook page: http://facebook.com/EatCrepes

First, introduce yourselves, let us know a bit about each of you and your background! 

Dane Granja - Lead singer. Dane is the voice of the band, as well as its visuals; he draws all the album art and promotional posters for the group. He went to high school in Warwick, RI with...

Matt Haronian - Keyboardist. Matt is trained in piano and self-taught in electronic music production. The initial concept behind the band came from the application of both of those skills around Dane's vocals. He, too, is a Warwick resident.

Sherry Romanzi - Guitarist/Ukulele-ist. Although the latest in joining the group, Sherry adds a new dimension, a rock band vibe, to its sound. She came into the band by way of Matt, in a gesture that was simultaneously a recognition of talent and an excuse to ask her out. Sherry resides in Providence, RI.

Currently, all three members attend different universities. Technology makes the creative process feasible, which is appropriate considering that technology is a prominent theme in Eat Crepes's output.

A lot of creative talent here! Talking about creative, when did you start the band, and most importantly, what's the story behind the band's name? I'm sure we're all curious to find out!

Eat Crepes started two years ago, in the members' junior year of high school. It was an electronic duo of Matt and Dane at its inception. That phase produced some demo recordings and little more, but it began the process of creating a sound. It became a full-fledged band with the addition of Sherry later that year.

The name came from musings on the rockstar lifestyle. One day, after eating crepes, and in homage to Notorious B.I.G, a spontaneous moment of inspiration led us to conclude that the essential tenets of being a rockstar were as follows: "f--k b-tches, eat crepes." But we're a family friendly bunch, so we just used the second half.

Now we know! And who is the talent who writes the lyrics and composes the songs?

All three members of the band contribute songs. It usually happens that each individual will write a complete song, rather than all three members helping to create one together. This is a limitation imposed by the lack of physical proximity or a common schedule.

That's great for collaboration. Team work. And what genre do you consider yourselves and who is your greatest influence?

We have always had trouble classifying ourselves into a genre, as most of the labels that fit are loaded with connotations. Our music is pop, but not of the Britney Spears variety. It's "indie," but that's not really a genre per se. It's synthpop, but not all of it has the 80's style that the word connotes. Synthpop or alternative pop comes the closest.

Similarly, we don't exactly have one greatest influence. We lovingly steal from actual synthpop groups like Depeche Mode and The Cure as much as modern groups like Owl City and Foster the People.

Great bands to be influenced by! Depeche Mode and The Cure are some of our 80's favorites, and we actually can feel the synthpop influence especially in your song Technophobic Ghost Boy. When was the first time you performed live and how did you feel?

Our first ever performance was a high school talent show/music showcase. We wish we had something juicier to say, but that was really it.

You have to start somewhere! And is there a specific performance you feel was your best ever? If so, where and why?

Our best performance ever was very recent (January 2nd, 2015). It was our first paid gig, at a Providence venue with some other local bands, one of which Sherry and Matt had adored for a long time. It was fantastic to see our friends and family come out, and even more fantastic to see people who were there for the other bands enjoying our music. 

Congratulations! That's great to hear! So what do you enjoy the most between the interaction with your fans?
Genuine enjoyment is the greatest thing to see in a fan. It’s about connecting with people. When people are actually feeling what we do, on more than just a cursory level, it’s satisfactory on such a fundamental level. It’s a huge part of being artists.

That's true, I hope you're having lots of fun! And what are your plans for this year?

This year we’re promoting our recently released EP, Amaroq. There is a possibility of performing in the summer. If not, we have plans for expanding our sound; we’re semi-constantly writing new music for the future.

Great, I'm sure you'll find lots of venues to perform, especially in the summer! So where can we buy your music?

We’re on iTunes here: https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/eat-crepes/id904544230

Spotify here: https://play.spotify.com/artist/2E1FQBgGoVN7Q3q31i7Gd5?play=true&utm_source=open.spotify.com&utm_medium=open

Amazon here: http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=ntt_srch_drd_B00M93Y4Y4?ie=UTF8&field-keywords=Eat%20Crepes&index=digital-music&search-type=ss

Is there anything else you'd like to tell our readers?

If you haven’t had crepes or it’s been a while, seriously, they’re delicious.

They sure are! Thank you so much for your time participating in this interview, and we wish you a lot of success and sales!  

Books: Indie Book Reviews - New Authors

Here are some reviews from Indie writers' books, which I enjoyed discovering. Different genres for different tastes, so pick one you like and give it a try, you might find your new favorite author here! And when you do, please don't forget to write a review too. All of them are available on Amazon. Thank you for supporting Indie writers! "No two persons ever read the same book." (Edmund Wilson).

The Last Dragon Slayer (Deathsworn Arc Book 1) - fantasy
By Martyn Stanley

Cool story that draws the reader into a quest to slaughter a dragon, while delving into the characters and their motives. The interesting thing about this book is, not only are the characters going on a quest to destroy an apparent evil force, but during their voyage, they face conflicting moral issues that plague humanity for centuries: can we condemn a creature to death? Should there be forgiveness for one's sins? Is a person evil because of their circumstances? Is there a choice? It gives the reader some food for thought. The extras at the end of the book with pictures were a plus with nice drawings, and I also loved the cover art. Would recommend it for teens and young adults who love adventures. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in the series!

 

The first book in the series is available free on amazon:

http://www.amazon.com/Last-Dragon-Slayer-Deathsworn-Book-ebook/dp/B009ECABOA/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=

In The End: A Pre-Apocalypse Novel - pre/post apocalyptic
By Edward M Wolfe

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, even though it's not the genre I usually read. I confess I read it in 2 days, couldn't put it down, it was a fast yet addictive reading that kept me going to find out more about all the characters stranded in this pre-apocalyptic story.

Descriptions are vivid and flow well between chapters. Wolfe did a great job with the characters. I hated Carl and wanted him dead as soon as possible, while I had lots of sympathy towards Monica and Tori. They felt real, and I found myself immediately taking sides, liking some, hating others, and rooting for a happy ending. I was drawn to find out how they would all connect and come together after all, and Wolfe didn't disappoint. It makes for a great first book and I'm sure the upcoming sequels will bring more excitement and close some of the "open wounds" from this book, like Jim's background. His sarcastic, pessimistic outlook is very noticeable and at times annoying, and although he definitely has issues, he has a soft side that prompts you to empathize with him. Great job.

http://www.amazon.com/End-pre-apocalypse-novel-Edward-Wolfe-ebook/dp/B00HJIIRZG/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=


Bentley Square (Time after Time Book 4) - romance
By Carol Ann Kauffman

Bentley Square is a fast paced love story that draws the writer into the lives of two interesting characters, a very rich heiress and a man who is almost homeless and jobless. Their platonic encounter after spotting each other on a train for years, and never approaching each other, finally happens coincidentally, and they feel like they know each other eternally. Their love story is timeless and they have to surpass many challenges in order to stay together, including murder, kidnapping, blackmailing, etc. It's full of surprises in every chapter and not a dull moment in their quest for love. If you like a love story that is timeless, and where the hero, Mark, is every woman's dream: totally romantic, a knight in shiny armor, ready to protect and save his damsel in distress at every corner, read this cozy yet action-filled romance! A "cameo" appearance by the author in one of the chapters was quite a smart surprise! Well done!

http://www.amazon.com/BENTLEY-SQUARE-Time-After-ebook/dp/B009Y9DPIC/ref=cm_aya_orig_subj

Eclectically Carnal (Eclectic Writings Book 1)- erotic short stories anthology
By Fern Brady, Chantell Renee and others

This is a fun and erotic anthology! The short stories in this volume are witty, have an element of the supernatural or fantastic, and are topped with sexy or steamy scenes. From a time machine that transports a museum curator to a caveman's land, to a fairy who transforms her sexual harassers into her sex slaves, the stories are amusing and definitely for a mature audience. Once you start, you will probably finish in one sitting. The stories are well written, the plots are funny, and I'm looking forward to the next anthology in this series!

http://www.amazon.com/Eclectically-Carnal-Eclectic-Writings-Book-ebook/dp/B00GQIEZRO/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&sr=&qid=

Music: Interview with musician DJ Lion-O

Today we bring to the page DJ Lion-O, a talented artist who just released a new album, Visceral. After his 2 instrumental albums, DJ Lion-O departed from music for a bit to explore painting, design and more writing. After 5 years, DJ Lion-O is finally releasing his fourth album. It changed a lot during those years, first titled Anti-Hero 4.0 to finally be changed to something more primal, Visceral. The album was produced by Mad Ducks Records and was released  on September 22 2014.  Let's get to know more about him and his music!


Tell us where you are from and what is your background? 

I am from Houston and my background is Heinz 57 with mostly Italian sauce.

Great sense of humor! What do you play and what instrument is your favorite? 

I play beatboxes, synths, and kaossilators. My favorite is a kaossilator hooked to the body of a bass, going through a bunch of guitar pedals.  

That sounds interesting, and exotic! What genre do you consider yourself and what is your greatest influence? 

It is hard to define myself with one genre. I would consider myself a mixture of ambient and techno. My biggest influence would have to be Pink Floyd, especially their song "Shine on you Crazy Diamond" from Pulse.

Pink Floyd is indeed a great influence. What is your source of inspiration to compose?  

This may sound corny but my source of inspiration is similar to many artists.  I think I am inspired by the emotions I feel from daily life experiences, the highs and the lows.

Yes, life and emotions can be major sources of inspiration. You have worked with bands and also worked solo,  which do you prefer? Why? 

A band is hands down the best and worst way to go. You have to deal with many personalities but when they meld together, in the pocket, that's a magical high.

I can imagine the contribution that each talent can bring to make music together. And what do you enjoy most between the interaction with your fans? 

I would say an honest opinion of my work. I want to hear the good and the bad.

You just released a new album, but are you working on anything else currently? 

I am currently collaborating with an experimental folk band in the Denver area.

That sounds exciting! Now tell us where can we find more about you and buy your music? 

released 22 September 2014

- DJ Lion-O: Beats & Programming
- Cedric Theys: Guitar, Bass & Programming
- Terrance Ballard: Congas & Bongos

http://www.madducksrecords.com/djliono.html for my bio 

http://store.madducksrecords.com/album/visceral to get my latest release.

Thank you! Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers?
   
Don't be afraid to express your inner creativity in whatever media you prefer.

That's a great advice! Thank you so much for your time interviewing with us here today and we wish you good luck and success with your new release and your upcoming projects!

Latest release: Visceral

Visceral is an emotional journey through music. It needed to be raw, untamed and unadulterated, aiming for the heart. The tunes are melodic but also include somewhat primal rhythms. After getting deep electro beats going, DJ Lion-O wanted to incorporate warm percussion to stir up the emotions. 

Visceral is the yearning that reaches deep into our souls coaxing us to close our eyes, raise our hands to the skies and beat the rhythms in a shaman-like trance. Visceral cannot be described by words alone. Visceral must be heard. Visceral is pure. Commune with it.

Music: Interview with Matt Newport, talented UK Musician, Artist and Poet

We're starting a new month with a new talented artist, British musician and poet Matt Newport. His talent is versatile, and goes from writing poems to music to performing in theater! Sounds great, right? So let's read on about this great guy!

Matt, please introduce yourself, where are you from and what is your background?

Firstly, thanks for this opportunity. I really appreciate it! My name's Matthew Newport, I'm from the United Kingdom, I write a variety of genres but focus on the pop and musical theatre industry. At the age of 14, I joined a local Amateur Dramatics group, this sparked a huge passion for music and theatre, I continued until 19 and left the group after 5 years. 

Great start for you. When did you start writing poetry and when did you decide to merge poetry and music?

I started writing poetry after I left the group, my poems were deep and meaningful and I surprised myself with my work. I understood poetry itself was a hard career to pursue, therefore I decided to buy a guitar and began teaching myself through books. It felt like the perfect marriage and with a little tweaking the poetry became lyrics and songs were born. 

Matt also paints landscapes

Fascinating, so you have taught yourself how to play the guitar! That's awesome, and very creating. So, having experimented with theater, writing and music, what is your favorite art form and why?

As well as music, another art form I like and frequently use is painting, I paint landscapes and scenic settings. I do have a soft spot for musical theatre. I feel that's where my lyrical writing is most effective. 

You're really all about the arts! What genre do you consider yourself and who is your greatest influence?

I feel it's hard to genre my music, I'd say it's a mix between Ed Sheeran and James Morrison. My greatest influences are Snow Patrol and Coldplay. I write about love and experiences, I feel a lot of people can relate to my songs and lyrics and that's the key: always be sure someone can relate to your music; if not, write the lyrics well enough so that after hearing your song, they feel they can relate to it; words are powerful tools.
 

I love Coldplay and Snow Patrol too! As a writer, I can relate to what you say about words. And what is your source of inspiration to compose?

 

I compose anywhere, my source is normally what comes into my head, I'm endlessly writing notes on my iphone and recording melodies I've come up with on the fly. Relationships are a good source of fresh ideas, some of my greatest songs came from a break up, others come from expressing your love towards someone, music is my expression. Haha, I write my girlfriend a song every few weeks because I like to show her and tell her how much she means to me. 

 

Lucky girlfriend! So we say you're an optimistic/hopeful/romantic guy, right?

 

I'm optimistic, hopeful and romantic, I love showing affection, I send my girlfriend flowers every couple of months, I love to spoil people, I'd say I'm too generous but I can't help it! Haha, I like to make people happy.

 

Sounds like you find inspiration everywhere! What do you enjoy the most between the interaction with your fans?

 

Interaction with my fans? I like to interact, I think that's the main thing, I'm just a guy who loves music just like them, I like to speak to everyone I can, and spend time with them, not just disappearing after a song, you could say building a relationship. 

 

Matt performed in musical theater

What are you working on right now?

 

Right now I'm working on two tracks with two different people from the US. I love collaborating, it's the only way you can improve your craft as a musician, learn from others and share your creativity. I'm also writing a musical, but I'll talk about that another time. 

 

Sounds great! Where can we find you and buy your music, then?

 

Currently my music is unavailable, I'm working on my album and will release a single very shortly, I'm also busy collaborating, as I mentioned before; best thing someone can do is just follow me on twitter and you'll be the first to know what's happening and when. I am a active twitterer, so if you message me I'll respond.  

 

https://twitter.com/Matt__Newport

http://www.mattnewportmusic.com/

Can't wait for your single release. In the meantime, let's follow Matt on twitter! Is there anything else you'd like to share with the readers?

 

I'd like to say if any of you are reading this, (if you've got this far Thank You!) and are thinking about performing or writing music, don't sit and think about it, get out there and go for it, meet local musicians, get active on twitter and practice your craft, if you play, keep playing any chance you get, if you write, write loads of stuff, it might look silly at first but keep it in a book, you'd be surprised what you can use when you return to it a few months later, don't be afraid to work outside your comfort zone, stay positive and stay creative. 

Thanks for having me, much love!

 

Great advice, Matt, and thank you so much for taking time out of your busy creative schedule to be our guest! Good luck to you and your music, and when you release your single, please let us know!