We meet again. We all survived the Blizzard of 2016, and as I found myself shoveling three feet of snow, I couldn’t help but see warm weather on the horizon. You know, jamming out to live bands on the beach in the summer on the Jersey Shore, there is nothing better. However, on the bright side, we will get there eventually!
I have seen a lot of cool bands as of late, including the Jack’s Mannequin reunion at Starland. So, before we get into our act of the week here in the Radar, take a deep breath and ask yourself, “When is the last time I got out to a show?” If it’s been a long time, get off your butts and support the scene; not just because I am asking you to, but the local arts need you!
That being said, I wanted to take the time to introduce, or re-introduce you to a local artist on the rise named Nikki Talley, who was recently brought into my life. She has just released a new album, and has a lot brewing in the near future, so let’s embrace her talent, shall we?
Now, before we get started, I am headed across the pond a little on this artist, as she hails from Asheville, North Carolina! Hey, there is nothing here to be said that we can’t show some love for some talent down south. Nikki is a folk/Americana singer/songwriter (who also kills it on guitar) who is backed by the extremely talented Jason Sharp (who is also her hubby) on guitars and bass. She has been described as a woman who “sings her boots off, playing acoustic guitar, as well as her mountain claw hammer.” I don’t know about you, but everything I just wrote sounds extremely intriguing.
Now, I am new to her music, but I was drawn to her like a moth to a flame. The first track I sampled is called “Anna Marie,” and it’s completely full of beauty. I absolutely love her voice; it hit me like a pile of bricks. Not to compare her at all, because she is completely original with a style and sound all of her own, but I hear parts of Joan Osborne in her (who I may add is one of my favorite female singers of all time). She has that perfect pitch that many artists strive for; a crisp raspiness that soothes your soul. I fell in love with this track, and I am hopelessly devoted. Of course, I had to wake up and realize there is a lot more music!
I highly recommend you check out a song called “Railroad Boy,” which demonstrates just how musically talented her and Jason are. If you love guitars, you really appreciate this sound. The intro alone got me and led me into the light. I wanted to pour a glass of wine and sit out on my porch while listening to this song, completely undistracted.
Another track I really enjoy is called “Storm Of The Century.” I think lovers of country, folk, indie, and rock will love this song. Another attribute I must mention is the brilliant songwriting; all of the lyrics are meaningful and deep, as showcased on “Storm Of The Century.”
Nikki Talley’s music gives off good vibes, and it puts you in a mood and a place that you always want to be in. I still have a lot of music to discover from her, but I really hope she brings her live set to New Jersey sometime soon, because I will be in the front row.
If you want to learn more about Nikki Talley, access her videos, music, photos and music, be sure to visit her official website at NikkiTalley.com. She is also on Facebook and other social media, posting her tour dates, so you have no excuse not to show her some love. I am so happy her voice was brought into my life, as I am now forever devoted.
I will be back next week with some more awesome talent to showcase, so keep on sending in those submissions!
