It’s been a while since I have done one of these. Periodically I receive emails and other social media messages suggesting certain songs and artists. Since I’ve been sporadic with my postings I thought now was a good time to showcase some of these recommendations that I haven’t had a chance to feature. They are well worth a listen. If you are an indie artist, music representative or fan that feels that a certain song or artists deserve a spotlight on this site, please feel free to contact me.
Cómo Duermen – Tomás del Real
Tomás del Real is a young Chilean folk musician, who is actively playing in Chilean towns, helping to provide a voice for the cultural resistance which is speaking out against the human right violations by the corrupt Chile government. “Cómo Duermen” is a track off his album Tomando Forma. The album was originally recorded in 2014 but didn’t receive a wide release until early this year. When translated into English “Cómo Duermen” is rendered “how do they sleep.” It is one of several protest songs on the album.
Living In America – Sault
A YouTube link was emailed to me without any biographical info about the band. Based on the limited info available, they are an alternative soul band from the UK, who have released two albums in 2019, 5 in May and 7 in September. “Living In America” is off 7 and is a funky thesis on the American culture of violence.
Politician Man – Adrian Sutherland
“Politician Man” is the first single from Adrian Sutherland (who also fronts the roots-rock band Midnight Shine). Sutherland is from the isolated Cree community of Attawapiskat in Northern Canada, and he is a passionate voice for First Nations issues. “Politician Man” was written in response to a state of emergency that was declared back in July, due to contaminated water in his community. The song also targets insensitive comments and lack of response coming from government representatives in Ottawa.
“Sometimes reconciliation sounds like an empty word, and it’s frustrating. You keep trying to get ahead, but there are ongoing challenges, one obstacle after another. I have to wonder what I’m doing still living in Attawapiskat, and if anything is ever going to make a difference,” says Sutherland.
“The relationship between Canada and First Nations has been difficult for a long time, and in many ways it still is. Politician Man is about this relationship, and the need for all of us – politicians, chiefs, Indigenous people, all Canadians – to start listening to each other, and take steps together. Let’s move past the blaming and do something. We all need to do our part. That’s what reconciliation is, and the message behind Politician Man.”
The video was directed by Justin Stephenson, who directed the animated film Secret Path, which was a companion piece to the Gord Downie album of the same name. It related the true-life story of Chanie Wenjack, a 12-year-old boy who ran away from a residential school and died while trying to make his way home. Sutherland appropriately released his topical single during Secret Path Week, a national movement commemorating the legacies of Gord Downie and Chanie Wenjack, and building awareness for indigenous issues.
Spotified – Portnoy
The brother duo of Israel and Mendy Portnoy recently released their debut album, No Complaints. It features the single “Spotified.” The anthemic tune deals with the harsh realities of being an indie musician during the digital age. How do you make a living when streaming platforms only pay a fraction of cent?
Evening Prayer aka Justice – Ezra Furman
I was tagged on twitter correctly pointing out that I’ve never featured Ezra Furman on this site. The tweet also pointed out that Furman’s latest album 12 Nudes is one of the best protest albums of the year. They weren’t wrong, but it did come out after I posted my best album so far list. Also, being honest, the album, unfortunately, flew below my radar, which now has been rectified and it will receive considerable consideration for the year-end list.
“Evening Prayer” off the album, is a galvanising anthem of social justice. Instead of being a passive spectator, it encourages definitive action.