Being in two bands is a full time job. But, for singer/songwriter of Dispatch and State Radio, Chadwick Stokes still has a lot up his sleeves. Built off of stories of his time spent train hopping and politically charged activism, Stokes has music that doesn't fit the mold of either his bands. The logical progression is to put out a solo album, and this one, his first, is a stab at folk music that is far beyond what you might expect. Dispatch and State Radio are full of high energy, and while both are rooted in folk music, Chad's music rarely touches such a personal level. Now, with this platform, Chad can showcase where he comes from and where he is rooted in his music, while still maintaining the same quality and delivery his fans are used to. The album is personal and well written, and features a handful of songs that are instantly classic. The lead single, "Back To The Races," is the closest bridge to Dispatch and State Radio, while still remaining stripped and bare, showcasing the lyrics. "Adelaide" is a song that Chad debuted with State Radio but given that it is a folk song, the right avenue and sound is portrayed beautifully here. The biggest surprise track is "Rainsong" which is Stokes' folksiest song ever and doesn't sound like either of his previous bands' work. You even get a bit of reggae on the bonus tracks which he recorded with Sierra Leone's Refugee Allstars. He enlisted a bunch of musical friends to help complete his vision, included folk legend Carly Simon. In all, Stokes has proven that some rockers do have a heart, soul, and centered core that drive them within their music. Chadwick Stokes is proof that as musicians dicover they have more to offer than they have been delivering, it's time to branch out and spread their wings, letting loose all the creative juices and setting free the all beauty of their talents.
Lots of musicians like to participate in side projects. Many start new bands. Supergroups are a popular thing to try. Others go solo, trying out new music on their own. Release The Sunbird is a bit of all of those. The brainchild of Zach Rogue (lead singer of indie rockers Rouge Wave), this band is every bit of folk and indie that each member brings. The collection is essentially a solo album for Zach Rogue, as it is his music through a different venue. This is music that most likely could not have been executed with as much grace and gentleness by Rogue Wave. "Always Like The Sun" and "No Light" are indie folk gems, and cornerstones of the album. The brightest spot, however, is the album's title track, which updates a 60's California folk sound better than any other indie folk act around these days. Zach's unique voice coupled with female backing vocals is a thing of beauty. While this may be a one off and Zach might not venture down this path with this music again, it's a welcome detour from his day job that his fans benefit from.
