Direksyons (The Etheric Level) - Jimi Starr

 

I have known Jimi for a while now as he appeared a couple of years ago on a radio show I once co-hosted featuring his debut album 'Black' in which the single from it 'Egyptian Love Song' was well received. 

His latest album 'Direksyons (The Etheric Level)' has a concept and full of deep meaning and amazing journey of sounds. He has clearly moved on from his album 'Black' and really experimented with sounds both vocally, musically & digitally. It to me has a real fresh sound placing it in a few genres. Jimi's vocals have always been this soft, smooth and to all the women SEXY over tones, in fact one female told me she was melting to his voice. On this new album their is no disappointment in that department.

Before I get into reviewing each track giving my option & the background story to each song hear are some words from Jimi himself on what the album touches on in all of us.

 

The album is a collection of songs that were written within the last three years with the exception of “Shine”, “L in Return”, “Legend”, and “Salute to the Sunrise”, which were written several years ago, but fit the theme of the album. As cynical as it seem, the system of the US and is synonymous with a circus in which most are given a role to play along with a ride, and/or a game to keep them distracted while being entertained. We have a ringmaster, clowns (sad/happy ect), and other characters, that operate the circus, but it’s up to us to be conscious beings (lions, tigers, bears) and not sheep merely sitting in the audience watching the show.

The album, refer to this as the New World Circus which is the physical or 3-D level of consciousness. However, the destination of our planet is 5-D level, or assention. There is also an etheric or spiritual level that subsists while we are simultaneously being testing, shaped, and molded. In this reality based on illusion, we will either strengthen or weaken depending on the direction (Direksyon) chosen by the individual. Metaphysics and psychology also play an integral role conceptually as we emit energy throughout the planet and universe, anticipating the effects (Dharma).

In light of this, I believe that as a collective consciousness we have reached a threshold for the greed, stupidity, fear, negative energy (Kharma), and the overall destruction. This is descriptive of the circus act in which the planet and universe is responding to, and overall will reject today’s 3-D being. The better option is to travel the path of enlightenment by knowing thyself which will consequentially raise your vibration and collectively raise the vibration of the planet and universe to accept the 13^th etheric level.

Peace Jimi Starr 2014

 

Track One 'Direksyons (The Rides)'

To me this has a sci-fi feel to it with many layers of sound which sort of tunes you into the album and the experience your about to take. The album to me has been recorded for the age we live in where much music is listened to with headsets on. I played the album this way and the effects really soar around within your mind. The track takes us on the ride we have chosen in life some make you scream some make you laugh some rides like life itself you just love. Just imagine those in sound and you are there.

Track Two 'Direksyons II (Travelling Show)'

I really love this track as with the scratch effect throughout, travelling music theme & a almost epic piano & feel. The duo vocals become a real instrument within this song as partly electronic vocals with a Herbie Hancock style with also the added awesome Jimi's soft soulful tones. It has this electric guitar section which really screams midway through till fade which I love and played loud. To me it has all you need and more but again the headset gives you the full journey within this recording.

Track Three 'Freaky'

This song was co-written by the singer, song writer Jay Stones who also has releases under Humblekatz Productions. The song touches on our human frailties and hypocrisy, especially regarding religion. Many so-called Christians can be found in local clubs and hookahs and are real freakaaaaay. Now reading that you may think that's too heavy for me, well don't let the backstory fool you as this is one real seriously funky track. Counted in by a drum beat, slap bass and a beautiful feel of classic Earth, Wind & Fire who Jimi has influence from and has worked with. This makes you wanna get up and shake your bootie from start to end. If I had to pick one best track off this album it would be this one as you just want to play it again, in fact I loved it so much I asked if Jimi could extend it as I wanted more.

Track Four 'Shine'

Starting with the sound of thunder and some brass and that soft vocals added with some reverbed vocals of Jimi singing his emotions spell out his feelings of a break up and the wants and needs to sync it all back together. Jimi said his thoughts were of a long distance relationship that ended painfully and perhaps should not of happened. Whatever the case as all are thoughts are different in love this song is beautiful, soulful and I can picture someone somewhere relaxing on a sandy beach and smiling to its heavenly sound.

Track Five 'Salute To The Sunrise'

A purely magical start and the title sort of tells you all about the song, however Jimi says he wrote this many years ago when he was in the Navy. He added it has a impactful meaning now with the focus being on the inner Earth Sun "Global Warming". I find it amazing on this album how Jimi uses his vocals in so many different ways as the lyrics are approached differently to the others on this track. Again this has many hidden sound levels that come alive once you relax with your headset and it shouts to me once working in music that a lot of thought and love has gone into this whole project.

Track Six 'Fazion'

This track has a deep meaning much like all the album Jimi says

"The ones who are in “Know thy Self” mode and most willing to follow truth wherever it leads. This means protecting the planet and universe, understanding Yin & Yang, Kundalini meditation, and raising your vibrations. Earth Wind and Fire was saying this in the albums I AM, Raise, and Power light."

The track has trumpets which Jimi seems to love and heavenly vocal harmony

Track Seven 'Celebrate'

This goes straight in there CELEBRATE YOUR LIFE the vocals are not as I would of liked but after a few plays I understand Jimi is using the vocals as a character as he acts out what the story tells. It has a lovely midway guitar solo and some crazy vocals but again its all in the telling of the story. What is the story you may well ask? well Jimi says 

"Discussion of why we are lost as a people and the simple things we can do to get it together. This occurs by following the circus act (media), that tells us how to be, what to buy, when to celebrate ect. By appreciating what we have instead of what we don’t keeps us in a spell of confusion and makes us miss out on the moment."

I think you just got to listen to understand as this song is so well played out.

Track Eight 'L In Return'

Oh this is so a Jimi Starr classic if you know him from his past album, true love song utterly beautiful with mixture of harmonies. It was written based on a true story too and filled with so much emotion. Jimi wrote it was over 10 years ago after an on and off relationship. He said it was one of those that you are not sure that it's completely over and in the back of your mind expecting to resurface. They do say the best songs come from the heart, well this one sure does.

Track Nine 'Chips'

When I first played this I just knew some females would be melting as Jimi's deep sexy tones that females LOVE are included within this track, the harmonies which are multi layered are so smooth. The song itself is self explanatory as everyone has felt that THE CHIPS ARE DOWN, especially within a relationship and you feel your being tested for your shortcomings in times of hardship. 

Track Ten 'Legend'

When I first played this a sound you hardly hear stood out to me so I had to ask Jimi, he replied "yes you are correct you do hear a flute at the beginning of 'Legend' as I was paying tribute to my Sensei and mentor Master Julius Dorsey. The track has an almost Chinese feel to it and Jimi's vocals go to a haunting whisper with emotion filled passion. Listen out for guitar and bass hidden within the layers, I love the backing vocals too the back story may surprise you as it is again deep and meaningful. Jimi said

" Song written several years ago that highlights the experiences that manifested trough my spiritual walks with Sensei Julius (transitioned), and Buddhist Priests. I was on a path of destruction as this was an impacting time in my life because it gave me a better path and helped shape me into the enlightened being I am today".

I Love the line I AM GOING TO BE A LEGEND IN MY OWN TIME

Track 11 'Muu'

A haunting wind blows and a deep voice is spoken...

FEEL DOWN MY BODY OF SPIRIT OF LIGHT

COME THROUGH THE FLOWER THAT SHINES THROUGH THE DARKNESS

 This is how the album Direksyons concludes with the spoken words of Jimi leaving us with more meaningful words to the backgrounds of strings, keyboards. Jimi says

"It was his endeavour to encompass and convey the energy of the Sacred Emerald Tablets to help heal our world and experiences"

I found the journey of this album interesting, magical, deep, soulful with a colourful parade of sound and vocal talent. I have always had an interest to concept albums but I found this to be a new take on it as once you know what the message is you can change your own thoughts & life.

I really recommend this album and all those interested in Jimi Starr check him out at

www.humblekatzproductions.com/

 

Ace MegaRex Reviews are back

After a break from music for personal reasons I am back to write reviews on new releases.
I no longer work for OK! Records as the company is under a revamp with new name, artists and new website (I will update you all as it happens).

I have been sent a few new albums not yet released to review, both are totally different genre from each other, but it is that what makes reviewing music interesting.

First up will be an artist I have known for a while in fact I featured his last album 'Black' while I was still co hosting a radio show on LG73.

His single 'Egyptian Love Song' (taken from 'Black') was accepted well by listeners.

His name is Jimi Starr and his new album entitled 'Direksyons (The Etheric Level) has deep meanings, beautiful sound & lyrics will be reviewed with added quotes by the man himself.

http://www.humblekatzproductions.com/

The second is a band Luna Reklipse which features Dave Bremner on lead vocals.

Their new album is entitled 'New Beginning' and is pure raw rock.
I have known Dave for a while as I worked with him as a solo artist on OK! Records, Dave hopefully will also re-release those singles once released on the old label. Including the wonderful 'Highland Home'

FIREFLY - Jo Mummery

Now available on iTunes is two stunning tracks by Jo Mummery, first is 'FIREFLY' which is a song Jo says she got influenced by watching a Marc Bolan video on You Tube. The video had effects to make it look old and it came to her that it looked like fireflies dancing in Marc's hair.

 

The second song is a rocking track entitled 'Fire Within' which I loved the very first time I heard it. The track gives you reminders of T.Rex with the use of bongos and drums. 

Infact Jo has had comments about other tracks recoreded by her by the man who produced much of T.Rex classic albums Tony Visconti, where he says.... QUOTE "Jo's songs 'Shining Star' and 'Blue Wizard' are gentle, innocent and heart felt". These two new songs are no exception, taken from her debut album 'Electric Angel'to be released in near future.

*Note 'Shining Star' is also on sale on iTunes

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Firefly-Jo-Mummery/dp/B00EQHG5MK/ref=sr_1_1?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1400085195&sr=1-1&keywords=jo+mummery


http://www.amazon.co.uk/Shining-Star-Slyders-Jo-Mummery/dp/B005AQLHSI/ref=sr_1_2?s=dmusic&ie=UTF8&qid=1400085195&sr=1-2&keywords=jo+mummery

Dave Bremner NEW RELEASES

Great news Dave Bremner has released two NEW tracks on iTunes.
On the 17th May 2013 two amazing & beautiful songs 'Reasons To Live' and 'Princess Of The Universe' will go on sale. Now when you fall in love & find your soul mate in life it is often very hard to tell that love in your life how much you truely do LOVE them. That is unless your a songwriter as here Dave has written/composer two lovely tracks to his love of his life. So much personal feelings & emotions are within these two songs. So if you love songs from the heart these are the ones you want. The other track was released on 28th May 2013 and it is based on a true event I was envolved in myself. What do you when a dear friend asks for help on Facebook? Well won't g into the what unfolded that night just will say that the song entitled 'Hey Jo' tells the story of two Marc Bolan fans & one coming to help the other in their hour of need.

Danielz (T.Rextasy) talks of 'Highland Home'

After my blog / review of 'Highland Home' by Dave Bremner to be released on OK! Records, the frontman of T.Rextasy Danielz has written his review on this track. His words are below...

Dave has persevered and consistently strived to find the exact sound and temperament he has been after to record what has become the final version of 'Highland Home'. It has been structured beautifully and captures the essence of a vintage Scottish yesteryear life together with a message of today for each and every one of us. These tracks have been recorded in aid of the CLAN Cancer Support Group and is freely available for anyone that is affected directly or indirectly with Cancer. Dave has put his heart and soul into this project and this can be heard instantly by listening to this wonderful song. I hope that everyone will show support by purchasing this release for such a worthwhile cause. Danielz T.Rextasy www.trextasy.com/

Highland Home by Dave Bremner

I first got to know Dave Bremner & his music on Reverbnation then became friends on Facebook. We both sort of clicked due to our love for Marc Bolan which gave us a starting point to talk then go into Dave's own compositions. Dave has sent me various demo's via email over the past 2 years & to me he always has this big epic feel even at an early stage in production. So imagine how I felt when the MP3 of 'Highland Home' was sent to me entitled 'memo2'. I played it and was completely blown away by it's epic production. Yes it has strong Scottish roots within it's music & lyrics but you don't have to be Scottish to fall in love with this song on first play. My partner Heather heard this and commented that it to her was like a sound track that easy would fit the movie 'Braveheart' with Mel Gibson running with his masses. Saying that the lyrics do talk of Scotland's struggle through history, but I talked to Dave himself & we agreed it can also mean the struggles we all meat everyday in our life's. The epic sound gets me with a build up with acoustic guitar to electric guitar which Dave handles both like a master, then the sound of Scottish drums then the bagpipes that gives you goosebumps. Added to this is a chorus so easy to remember & becomes a chant sang by everyone who hears it. Dave told me he performed this live and over 100+ sang the chorus on their first time they ever heard it & he had lump in his throat. The song gives that feeling to me too.

Outside - This track is relationship based where Dave sings about that feeling we have all had like we are looking outside of the relationship looking in. The music has a beautiful acoustic guitar mixed with some wonderful electric guitar. Dave seems to write songs that you can either relate too or effect your emotions & this for sure is one of them songs.

Highland Home (Clan Home)- Money from all of these releases will go to The Clan cancer for all charity. This track is a re-working of the lyrics of 'Highland Home' but just as or in fact more emotional to many. I find for the price of a few downloads or limited CD you get wonderful emotional piece of music & the money goes to a charity that does so much to so many. Released on 23rd November on OK! Records www.okrecordsmusic.co.uk Highland Home a masterpiece from start to finish - Ace

PartaY on til Dawn (LIVE@THE VENUE)

On Oct 6th 2012 I went to The Venue in Chichester to watch a production entitled 'PartaY on til Dawn'. This show was amazing from start to finish, I was lucky to be invited to watch from sound checks, run throughs to the full show.
The show had a few special guests and to start the evening off with a 20min performance was The Penny Black Choir, now they really did surprise me how they performed well known songs from The Beach Boys to The Who but made them their own. The Penny Black Choir really put their hearts into every song & rightly so got the cheers from those who watched.

The next guest I only knew as a local radio DJ on Spirit FM, never heard him sing before. Mike has a massive wealth of background in music working with Robert Plant & Gary Moore to name just a few, check him & his music out at link below http://fryedmusic.com/
Mike Fry was just outstanding, he had great banter with everyone, laughs and knowledge of what he performed. He held everyone in his hand throughout his part of the show. The host Dawn Gracie remarked on how much his vocals sounded like Neil Diamond.

After a short break the main event The Steve Christopher Band featuring guests Sylvia McEwen & Bre Kilpin AKA Breeze. Now the tracks performed were taken from SCB's new album (*all except 'Lie To My Baby) and they really rocked.

Steve's guitar was as always singing like it was alive, Pete on bass really knows how to play & real strong backing vocals, Andy on rythmn guitar in some parts mirrored Steve's to give this totally awesome guitar sound of two fine axemen in total harmony. Dwight on drums, now his work was grade one top ranks he owned those drums total control & from such a small kit they sounded like thunder.




Sylvia her vocals were so rock and raunchy and on her own numbers from the album 'Rock n roll mama' & 'Promises' she really took the stage, her power & use of vocals are amazing. She really knows how to hold a note so impressed & loved talking listening to her tell me of her love for singing/performing.

Bre came on to perform two numbers, both written by Steve Christopher & one especially for her. I have known Bre and her mother Heather for some years but never met so it was real pleasure meeting & talking but to watch her handle THIS IS IT and LIE TO MY BABY it was heaven. Winner on Sky 1's 'Don't Stop Me Now' hearing her perform you know why in seconds why she won.

At the end of the show The Penny Black Choir returned to the stage to sing with SCB 'We Are The Children' this is a strong track on the album as they all are but to see this big production it was really emotional. It was a fab end to a great show, I had an amazing night with some extremely talented people.