Boy, it's been tough motivating myself to write anything since Tuesday evening. The world is completely torn apart and unless we change and accept the unacceptable, we're going to be spinning our wheels endlessly. That's why I'm rebooting my mind today and going to my always reliable outlet of escape: music. Music heals. It makes us feel. It can even distract us from a world on fire. Today's A-Sides artist, Jaymay, is a talented singer/songwriter whose honesty and artistry have always shined through. Paste Magazine once praised her for her "melodic grace" and "lyrical detail" and that's spot on. The New York native opens up her soul with stories that just so happen to be songs.
At the Music Conservatory of Westchester late last month, Jaymay performed two tracks from her acclaimed To Tell The Truth, and sat down (literally) for a chat that ranged from her music to an upcoming Christmas album. Watch in wonder as this guy (points to self) translates Ave Maria. It's something to behold. Anyway... watch the session below and hope for a better tomorrow.
A-Sides' "Delve Into Twelve" Countdown
Each week A-Sides unleashes its top 12 tracks of the week AKA the "Delve Into Twelve" based on the following contributing factors: songs I'm playing out that particular week (no matter when they were released -- think overlooked songs, unreleased tracks and old favorites), songs various publicists are trying to get me to listen to that I did and dug a bunch, song posts and trends I've noticed on my friends' Facebook walls and, most importantly: what my preschooler is currently enjoying thoroughly with an assist from my toddler.
About A-Sides with Jon Chattman - thisisasides.com :
Jon Chattman's music/entertainment series typically features celebrities and artists (established or not) from all genres performing a track, and discussing what it means to them. This informal series focuses on the artist making art in a low-threatening, extremely informal (sometime humorous) way. No bells, no whistles -- just the music performed in a random, low-key setting followed by an unrehearsed chat. In an industry where everything often gets overblown and over manufactured, Jon strives for a refreshing change. (Theme song by Blondfire.) Artists featured on the series include Imagine Dragons, Melissa Etheridge, Yoko Ono, Elle King, Joe Perry, Alice Cooper, James Bay, Jimmy Eat World, Charli XCX, Marina and the Diamonds, and Bastille.