DJ Pick Of the Week: 7/20-7/24

0
8

Jay’s DJ Pick: “Hangin On” by Frank Mastra

Jay’s DJ pick of the week is “Hangin On” by Frank Mastra. Otherwise known as Franklin Mastrangelo from Orient, NY. He started gaining traction on social media platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, posting covers of songs by Ray Charles and Leon Russell. Accumulating hundreds of thousands of likes on these videos as well as the attention of Music labels. Currently signed to Mercury Records and has relocated to Nashville as of January. Mastrangelo pulls influences from Al Green and Joe Cocker, but would describe his own sound as a modern-day Van Morrison. As well as comparable to The Band. “Hangin On” is his debut single and serves as a prominent introduction to his signature style of raw piano stylings. To its core, the song contains classic soul and roots rock that is timeless to the listener. You can listen to this authentic recording down below!

Dan’s DJ Pick: “Blowin’ Up” by Eddie 9V

Dan’s DJ pick is “Blowin’ Up” by Eddie 9V. Growing up in Monticello, Georgia, with his MiMi and Papa, he picked up his first guitar at age 6. Easy Eye Sounds will release his newest album, Down Here, on November 6th. Dan Aurbach led the session, where Eddie joined fellow blues-sould guitarist Marcus King and veteran songwriter Pat McLaughlin, who has written for artists like John Prine and Bonnie Raitt. As well as an additional songwriter, Daniel Tashian, known for his work with Kacey Musgraves. Marcus King wrote “Blowin’ Up,” an infectious song about the 2020 Rv explosion on Second Avenue downtown Nashville. The greasy slide guitar mixed with raw organic vocals makes for an explosive sound. This song is loose, alive, and heavily inspired by old school Southern Soul. Catch them opening for The Black Keys at the Pinnacle August 7th & 8th! This blast of country-fried funk is a must-listen; catch it down below!

Stephanie’s DJ Pick: “Not Me” by Squirrel Flower

Stephanie’s DJ pick is “Not Me” by Squirrel Flower. Also known as Ella O’Connor Williams and is originally from Arlington, Massachusetts. After participating in the Boston DIY scene, she moved to Iowa and released her first EP as Squirrel Flower. After her debut album, I Was Born Swimming, was released in 2020, she has received glowing reviews from Rolling Stone, The Guardian, and Stereogum. Williams’ rich and powerful vocals allow her to deliver her music in an almost haunting way. Vocally, she shifts from a quiet, breathless murmur to intense and soaring peaks. “Not Me,” this Americana track from her album Say a Prayer to the Gods of Getting Going, is influenced by Linda Ronstadt. The song showcases her clear vocals over expansive instrumentals. It is a confident anthem about refusing to settle and trusting your intuition. Catch them at the Blue Room October 8th! Listen down below!

Casey’s DJ Pick: “A Year Without Summer” by The Foxies

Casey’s DJ Pick is “A Year Without Summer” by The Foxies. An alt rock power trio based in Nashville, with leading vocalist Julia Lauren Bullock, guitarist Jake Ohlbaum, and drummer Rob Bodley. Initially formed in Phoenix in 2015, the DIY minded band blends punk energy, glam-rock, and new wave. Describing their sound as a high-octane blend of explosive, fiery punk rock freedom and the gloss of perfect pop hooks. Some elements that define their music footprint are there gener blending core, danceable yet heavy sonics, and vocal versatility. They continue this in the song “A Year Without Summer.” It serves as the lead single for the Warning Sign EP that was released July 17th. This is a highly infectious, punchy anthem that heavily leans into existentialism while being wrapped into an upbeat dance package. You should catch them at Tomato Art Fest on Friday, August 7th! Give this song a listen down below!

Catch next weeks DJ Picks here, and keep tuning into Lightning 100!