2018 has been a fantastical year for us here at Behind the Curtains Media – and we couldn’t have done it without all of our wonderful artists, clients, friends, and press contacts! We’re delighted to present a look-back at many of the extremely talented artists we’ve had the pleasure of working with this year for publicity campaigns!
From newcomers to established artists, it’s been wonderful to work and grow with each and every one of you, presenting some of the best new music on the scene. Scroll through for a (roughly) chronological set of our campaigns:
Late Sea – “Hunter”
Cinematic, electronic indie-rock outfit Late Sea blew us away with their music video for “Hunter” – it was the first (public) release we promoted in 2018, and may well still stand as one of our favorite videos of the year. The final segment of their audio-visual EP The Writer’s Trilogy, “Hunter” provided stunning visuals, centered around the mesmerizing movement of Butoh dancer Mina Nishimura. We could continue raving all day, it’s suiting that it comes first as it’s a must-watch:
Candy Ambulance
This fantastic grunge-punk trio hail from upstate NY and have been killing it this year! We publicized their EP Spray in the beginning of 2017, and they’ve just been turning heads since. Over the course of the year, Candy Ambulance has gained coverage from the likes of Alternative Press, Dying Scene, idobi Radio and many others. Watch their latest music video, for “Spray“, released and promoted this fall:
Luke Buck – “Winter”
We had the pleasure of promoting Luke Buck‘s gorgeous yet somber tune “Winter” last December into January, which we then followed with a Spotify push. A relatively new service for us at the time, we were delighted to see the response – with a number of up and coming playlist curators adding his tune to their lists, his numbers skyrocketed! We have to admit, shortly after we finished our active pitching period, our jaws dropped when “Winter” got added to Spotify Germany’s official Kaffeehausmusik playlist.
Super Hi-Fi – Blue & White
Brooklyn’s premiere dub-reggae outfit kept our winter blues away, as we promoted their fifth EP Blue & White. Unconventional culture magazine Cultartes provided a fantastic premiere, and the band also released two dynamic videos for their tracks “Gone” and “Little Black Book“. Developing on their signature sound, Super Hi-Fi provided a great taste of embracing elements of rock and improvisational jazz. Watch “Gone” below:
LadyChild
In a burst of energy, Brooklyn outfit LadyChild brought together a wonderful blend of pop, indie rock, soul, and jazz influences on their debut self-titled EP – we knew the music was solid, but categorizing it proved a challenge! We not only had the pleasure of promoting this release, but it was recorded in part at our studio (as well as Mighty Toad Studio) and produced by our engineer Michael Abiuso. Their music got some great attention, with coverage from PopDust, Lemonade Magazine, and plenty of local favorites including B-Sides & Badlands. We can’t wait to see what comes next for them!
Yarley G
We were flattered when Yarley G, who we had previously worked with for a college radio campaign returned to us and asked us to promote his new album Vivid Echoes. Spanning across the hip hop, EDM, R&B, and soul realms, Yarley G provides an infectiously catch blend of tunes, and his album featured a wide range talented guest artists including Skyzoo, D’Wayne Reade, and IMAN. Yarley G got coverage from a number of tastemakers, including Substream and PopDust, as well as fantastic support from sites like KRXM, and IndustryMe.
Added Color
Once in a while, we’re challenged to do things different. Added Color, a Brooklyn-based Brazilian/American rock band approached us to promote their new EP Mr. Industry – but they already had great premieres secured for their music video “Same Place” and single “Just Because“. The clock was ticking, and the pressure was on – these guys clearly had been around the block a few times, and set the bar high. With a funk-infused alternative-rock blend, their music grabbed ahold with a number of outlets – PureGrain Audio provided a wonderful premiere for the release, and shout-out’s to I’m A Music Mag, Imperfect Fifth, VENTS, and others who covered!
Umbrella Co.
Rhode Island’s Umbrella Co. reached out to us to help share their debut EP Initial – a collection of bright and reflective indie rock melodies, it was a no-brainer for us to pick up even on short notice. With talented chemistry and a refreshing sound, we knew we could count on some of our long-term contacts including LA Music Critic, The Tony Jones Show, and Spill Magazine to give these newcomers a boost!
Sam Hammerman
Promoting singer-songwriters is always a little scary; no matter how good the material is, the term ‘singer songwriter’ must evoke eye-rolls for days from every single blog or outlet. However, we absolutely had to say yes for Sam Hammerman‘s beautiful indie soul-pop single “Miss the Days“! Full of crooner vintage jazz inspiration, it induces a nostalgic warmth. We were delighted to have PopMatters premiere the track, with lovely support from numerous sites including IndieMinded, Colourful Verses, and The Lowdown Under.
The Tracys
We used to know The Tracys as “that punk band next door” in our non-traditional office space. Then we got to know the guys, and had a thrill of a time promoting their killer album Humdinger. If you’re a fan of punk rock, this is a must-grab album. With three stellar videos to support, we had fantastic campaign, including support from IdiotEQ, New Noise Magazine, Rock Revolt, The Punk Site, Dying Scene & many others!
Johnny & the Bootlegs
You can’t get more NYC than blues-punk-rock group Johnny & the Bootlegs! A follow-up EP to their debut album (released earlier in the year), we had a fantastic campaign for NYC Rags, and two music video paired with it. Groundsounds, New Noise Magazine, LA Music Critic and tons of other supported this multi-genre release – a few tracks even got spun on Goldies Garage (sub-show of Little Steven’s Underground Garage). We also have to note: B-Sides and Badlands posted one of the best reviews we’ve read this year for lead vocalist John Santiago’s solo track “Don’t Blink”.
The Voms
Addictive noise-pop/alt-rock group The Voms dropped a video for their track “Left Right” – and we’re a bit jealous we couldn’t have been on hand for the filming it’s adorable dog. Alt Dialogue provided a premiere, adding “The Voms’ bare bones, no bullshit, rhythm driven tunes will pick up your fat feet and have you smashing the place to smithereens in no time.” Thanks to sites like Punk Online, That Buzzing Sound, Vibe Up Magazine, and more for sharing!
OCNS
It’s not exactly fair for us to pick favorites… but let’s just say OCNS‘ single “You” still has a special place for us. With a perfect balance of indie-pop melodies, R&B grooves, and alt-rock style they dropped is sizzler of a track in late May, showcasing the power of timing as summer hits were just beginning to trend. All Things Go premiered the track, and a number of press gave rave reviews and support, including IndustryMe, Stereo Stickman, Black Is the New AP Style, and All Access. With six members, we understand collaborating may take this group a little longer – but we’re itching to hear more!
The Mountain Carol
The Mountain Carol came to us with a delightful blend of atmospheric, jazzy electro-pop and indie-pop sounds in their album Starkiller and the Banshees. With a number of music videos providing visual support to their sonic journey, we had a fantastic campaign that included support from PopMatters, Delusions of Adequacy, Seven Days VT and Volume 11. With such a mix of sonic elements, it was challenging to pitch, but awesome to a widespread response from across the music scene. Keep an eye on them, because they’re doing something special.
Jase & Stace
Newly formed NYC duo Jase & Stace (Jason Ewald and Stacy Werdin) released a nostalgic 70’s soul-pop gem “If I Could” over the summer, and we were thrilled to promote it. Their fantastic vocal performance got some great attention from Music Enthusiast, Surrel Music Magazine, and Charm Magazine, among others. It’s the perfect track for mellowing out and reflecting.
Castle Black
We’ve been working throughout the year with this Brooklyn based post-punk/grunge-rock outfit! We were thrilled when lead vocalist Leigh Celent approached us to record her new album at our studio, followed by promoting it upon release. Their fourth studio EP, the gods that adored you, really showcases Castle Black’s development, full of sonic hooks and social anthems. Aided by nearly endless touring, the band has received some great press this year, including Uncivil Revolt, PureGrain Audio, Rebel Noise, Indie Band Guru, Punk Online, and many more! We promoted their video for “Broken Bright Star” earlier in the spring (off their previous EP Trapped Under All You Know).
Ricky Mapes
Another powerful social anthem, we were honored to work with NYC hip hop artist Ricky Mapes for the release of his video “IDWDT“. Bringing light to the harsh realities of urban city life, Mapes raises awareness and reflection, initiating conversation with his powerful work. Ghettoblaster held the premiere, and we got some great press from sites including BSide Guys, Sicness, Underground Hip Hop, and Vibe Up Magazine! Give it a click:
Marquee Mayfield
We had a blast promoting the upbeat R&B, pop-funk single “Feelin’ So Blue” from Nashville’s Marquee Mayfield. It provides an infectious energy, full of hooks and a hilarious music video to join in the style of a ‘mocu-mentary’. We got a great variety of coverage from B-sides & Badlands, to Floated Magazine, and ShoutItLoud Reviews.
Brigades
We were honored when pop-punk outfit Brigades reached out to have us assist in the roll-out of their new album True Blue this summer. The first new music since their 2015 album Indefinite, they independently released this album and had great response from new and old fans alike. Props to Stitched Sound, RMP Magazine, Dying Scene, Chorus.FM and the many others who supported! Check out the band’s video for “China Doll” off the release:
A Very Special Episode
We hadn’t heard of these Brooklyn-locals until they reached out to us to promote their sophomore EP Cut for Time. They’re definitely staying on our playlists, and are one to watch. Blending post-punk and shoegaze elements, A Very Special Episode takes a heavier sound on this new release, and signed to Knuckle Down Records earlier this year. They received some great press including hits on Rebel Noise, Establish the Creative, and the Joy of Violent Movement!
Dirty Heretics
Working with NYC electro-punk-rock duo Dirty Heretics for the release of their single “Hey Kevin” was a pleasant surprise, when the group reached out to us after we saw them perform live at a show. This young but talented group released their debut EP earlier in the year, but have some seriously impressive chops – we can’t wait to see where they go in 2019. Shout-outs to Rock All Photography, Rock N’ Load, and Music OT Future among those who gave support!
The Persian Leaps
We worked with The Persian Leaps last year to promote their fifth EP Bicycle Face, and were pleased when the band returned this fall to have us promote their next release – their first full-length album titled Pop That Goes Crunch. In a unique twist, the band created this as an anthology album, revisiting, and often re-working eighteen power-pop gems from across their EPs, along with a new single. Together, it creates a fantastic reflection and celebration of the band’s work, and a perfect introduction if you’ve never heard of them before. Glide Magazine picked up the premiere, and we had some great coverage and reviews, including A Journal of Musical Things, airplay and print coverage from The Big Takeover, When You Motor Away, and more!
Air For Ants
We connected with Air For Ants vocalist Dominic Sahagun to handle publicity for the release of their new album Once Again With Feeling. This was one of those releases that became a regular in the office, and is sure to stay on our playlists. Difficult to categorize, the band leads with ambient pop and indie-rock elements, but defies a single genre. They evoke a introspective sonic journey, drenching you in emotion. Substream Magazine, who premiered the album, said “Each track on the album carries a sound that’s completely unlike anything else on the album, but at the same time instantly recognizable as Air for Ants.” We had some great and widespread coverage, including Floated Magazine, Groundsounds, VZN Magazine, and many more!
New London Fire
Frontman and vocalist David Debiak reached out to us over the summer, seeking support for the release of a new album for his long-standing and versatile indie project New London Fire. Tired Of This Man came as an immensely well-timed cathartic and empowering release, providing an intimately authentic collection of folk-rock and Americana tunes. They hearken to the roots of Americanism, calling all to reflect on the values and history that has brought us to our current path, providing a catalyst for action, discussion, and ultimately union. The Deli Magazine premiered the album, and we received a variety of support including Rock All Photography, ReadJunk, and The Punk Site. We think (and hope) that this album that will only continue to grow in it’s message and impact!
Linda Marie Fischer
We jumped abroad for a last minute campaign to help promote Linda Marie Fischer‘s debut album Arc of Love. It’s one of the most beautiful ‘concept’ albums we’ve seen this year, as it comes straight from the heart. Linda’s story is one of love, growth, and empowerment. Take Effect Reviews, Indie Band Guru, LA Music Critic, and more have covered, and fans should stay tuned for some very cool interviews releasing soon!
Shafik
Blending hip-hop and smooth R&B inspired vocal melodies, Shafik‘s music video for “Desperado” brings the track to an entirely new level. Stunning visuals shot in the deserts of Nevada emphasize his message of the ever-present battle between good versus evil. Coming off his debut album The Showcase, Shafik’s videos and music put him on the scene as one to watch in 2019. Thanks to Beyond the Stage Magazine, KLUC Radio, Siccness, and others who have supported him so far!
No Sailor
No Sailor‘s debut single and music video for “21 Rules” provides a beautiful, heartwarming and authentic tune. It’s an impressive start as the band gears up for the release of their first album Anchor Broken Free, due out in early 2019. Music Existence hosted the premiere, describing it as “a fun, lighthearted folk-rock tune destined for the stages of Newport Folk Festival”. We can’t agree more! Shout-out to Music Enthusiast, The Deli Magazine, Rocking Magpie, and others who have covered this new release!
The Rev
In another debut, Arizona southern rock / alt-country outfit The Rev step on the scene, and turn heads with their new single “El Diablo“. Sometimes nothing tells a story quite like a country song, and they prove it right. Blending classic and alt-country, southern rock, and “outlaw stomp swamp” they build an irresistible boot-stomping tune and savory taste of what’s to come, with more music scheduled for release in 2019. Stageright Secrets, Concert Monkey, and Front Range Radio have all supported this current release!
Wendigo Tea Co.
Last but most certainly not least – we’ve been working with the fabulous Sky White of Wendigo Tea Co. throughout the year, promoting their delicious, organic, loose-leaf teas! There’s something for everyone, and vocalists should check out the Siren Throat Health Herbal tea. If you need some convincing, check out recent reviews and coverage at IndustryMe, Forbes, and lifestyle blog Explore With Cassie!
Shout-outs and love to the following artists who we did only Spotify promotion or radio campaigns for! Be sure to give them some love too!
Lucille Furs, Been Stellar, Russ Carrick, Krystalmath, Scarlet Sails, F.Y.I.
We’re already lining up for 2019!
We have some amazing campaigns lined up for 2019, and can’t wait to share! Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to get the scoop on new releases. Bands & artists if you’re interested in our services, give us a shout.
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Coverage requests for any of the above artists are welcomed, encouraged, and appreciated! Contact [email protected]
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