Kidd Kenn the 17-year-old Chicago native newly signed to Island Records. The openly queer rapper has been making a ruckus in the music industry. The passionate kid has been climbing the tracks with some help from social media. His song "Freestyle" has been popular on Tik Tok. Kidd Kenn performed with Kehlani at the Red Bull Music Festival in 2019. This kid is talented and you have to add him to your playlist. Big things to come from this young artist. 

NACHTBLUT takes listeners on a sonic journey that evokes the imagination and stirs the soul. Each song is an act of artistic creation that opens up a conversation between the creators and those immersed in the experience. In the end, the interpretation of this experience is ultimately left in the hands of the audience. Hope and dreams may spring from within one enrapturing song, while another more fearsome song can be dread-inducing, impaling the soul while leaving a shard of itself deep within.

The embers that have been steadily burning since 2005 from the German Gothic Metal band, NACHTBLUT have become a conflagration of fire and flame. Vanitas, their sixth studio album is a maelstrom of dark musical styles that expand and contract with the atmosphere created within every song. With Vanitas sung entirely in NACHTBLUT’s native tongue you’ll be hard-pressed to find lyrics translated into English. Through the convenience of Google Translate, non-German speakers can easily gain access to Askeroth’s imaginative lyricism albeit a rough translation, throughout the album.

Unlike the predominately straight-forward march of most traditional German Industrial Metal bands, NACHTBLUT blends their influences seamlessly into a melodious concoction of Black Metal, Folk, and Gothic/Industrial. As the foreboding ambiance of the opening track “Veritas” methodically leads us into “Varitas”, the album’s title track, a Gothic choir fuels the madness behind guitarist, Greif’s pummeling riffs. Every composition on Vanitas launches you forward through a foreboding hall as every compelling step leads into a doorway that is a theatre all it’s own.

“Das Puppenhaus” is the soundtrack to the nightmare that paralyzes your every movement. “Leierkinder” takes a drastic departure into Folk Metal territory but doesn’t lose it’s crushing ferocity. Both “Schmerz & Leid” (feat. Chris Harms) and “Nur In Der Nacht” are unapologetically influenced by 80’s Gothic/Industrial while “Fürchtet Was Geschrieben Steht” is a beast that is as triumphant as it is monstrous.

With time, all paintings fade and crack but true works of art not only stand the test of time but also inspire introspection. Vanitas is inherently complex in its lyricism and composition while remaining brutally unrelenting in it’s delivery. For those that haven’t explored the darkened corners of German Gothic Metal, NACHTBLUT is sure to open your mind and lead you to strange new places within previously unexplored.

As always, be well and rock on!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  8.8 out of 10

Artist:  NACHTBLUT  LP: Vanitas,   Release Date: October 2nd, 2020,   Label: Napalm Records

If you’ve been roaming the dancehall desert searching for the next wave of underground sonic planeteers, look no further than Sean the Star Emperor. Sean the Star brings his voguing, Minogueing bounce in his new single, sending Earth a message of contentment in “Paradise”. Best enjoyed under bright beams, “Paradise” is a light and hip-poppy earworm perfect for a kiki, a party, a drive and pretty much any situation that could stand for an extra dose of sunshine.

Sean and his popsicle hued go-go skaters bring to life the music video that epitomises the song’s imaginative, escapist theme. Exasperated by the blandness of this mortal world, Sean flounces onto the street and syncopates his frustration to unveil a colorful, splashy good time right outside the house. Gliding through this new dimension, collecting friends and good vibrations in a single long-take vacation.

“Paradise” is a composite of imagination and reality, of expectations and exploration. Life confined to your immediate surroundings can be a bummer, but Sean the Star Emperor puts it best, “Fun is what we make of the conditions: ‘Any way you like, wake up to Paradise…’” When you work with what you have, it’s all bliss, sis.  -Robyn Dee

Hunnypot is SEAN THE STAR EMPEROR's official sync representative both Masters & Publishing, ready for LICENSING! - John Anderson

Stream/Download Disco   Spotify

Hunnypot represented hip-hop artist Indica has been putting out dope hits for years (We LOVE "Intoxicated"). His new single "Hollywood on Fire" is vibes. He brings something different to the table every time. This song has a nice cool beat that you can just groove to. Definitely have to give it a listen it's worth it. Total vibe check.

-Drew Hollinger    

Kicking off Labor Day Weekend, Lotus took the stage for the first time since the global COVID 19 pandemic started at the Citizens Bank Park, in Philadelphia, PA on Friday evening. Being one of the new Live Nation Drive-In concerts, this show was a unique experience for the band and crowd alike. For any live music fan that hasn't heard of or been to one yet, Drive-In shows are becoming the new reality in the jam band scene and live music in general with all of the strict rules now in effect during this pandemic.

To start, you must purchase a car pass and an assigned parking space.  There are no single tickets available and each car can have up to 4 people.  Next, you must wear a mask when leaving your car area  (going to the bathroom, visiting another car, etc.) Social distancing is strictly enforced, and there is no need to go to the bar or food stands  as it can all be ordered via app on your phone.  Once ready, the venue will bring you your food and drink orders via golf cart right to your car, awesome!   To listen to the show, you must tune your car radio to a station carrying the audio feed of the performance.  With no PA system available at the venue, this is a must but super cool.  You'll even get an out of this world echo and amazing stereo sound to occur depending on where you were in the parking lot, whose car was playing the station louder and softer, know what I mean?   I thought it was a really great setup as a temporary solution to the COVID problem, but my hope is this is not the future of live music and just a quick fix until we are allowed the full concert experience!

Lotus started their unique blend of funk, jam, and electronica in 1999. Longtime members include Mike Rempel on Guitar, Jesse Miller on Bass, Mike Greenfield on Drums, Luke Miller on Keys, and Chuck Morris on Percussion. This unbelievable quintet has been getting people up and dancing at music festivals and headlining shows all around the globe for years and this unique show was no exception.  Their "smooth as butter" style has a blend of funky electronica beats, thunderous bass lines, mixed with melodic and spiritual tones, which all come together for a real true life-altering experience. The band recently dropped its 10th studio album, Free Swim, and it does not disappoint.  It's loaded with their unique style and flavor and its even better live!!! If you get a chance to see them when they come back to your town after this pandemic is over, I highly recommend checking them out!

Bottom line,  Lotus show on Friday night was just what the Doctor ordered! Sure, the venue was different and experience non-traditional.  However, it was such a great experience to rock out with my friends and just enjoy being at a show again.  With the pandemic still going on throughout the world, we will just have to patiently to experience true live music experience again. In the meantime, if one your favorite bands starts announcing Drive-In shows, please take full advantage and take in the experience. Grab your friends, fill the cooler, bring your mask, and rock out.  Thanks Lotus, job well done!

Lotus 9/4/20 - Citizens Bank Park Philly, PA Setlist

Lucid Awakening, Earl of Grey, Livingston Storm [jam in G] > Wax, Caywood, Bjorn Gets a Haircut, Spiritualize

Catacombs, Straight Blade, Sift > Expired Slang > It’s All Clear To Me Now > Hammerstrike (intro) > Flower Sermon > Land of the Lush

Encore: MacGuffin

Benjamin Carter the next big thing just released his first official music video "Fragile". The young man originally from the Cayman Islands has been putting his blood, sweat, and tears into his Indie-Pop music style. He established himself in both Washington D.C. and Los Angeles. He continues to create and develop music for the next generation. Hunnypot approved! 

-Drew Hollinger 

Hunnypot Party ICON new single alert! Peaches is back at it again with another amazing bop. The always groundbreaking and inspiring artist just released a music video to her single "Flip This". She's bringing her own light towards BLM and puts a flip on the movement. Her song is motivating political change and continued protests. Her style and lyrics express her passion for change and how important it is to stand up for what is right.   

-Drew Hollinger

Lotus is back with another banger in their 10th studio release, Free Swim!  This album blends styles of electronica with jazz and funk, making for a fun ride through this band’s compositional flow.  Free Swim is unconventional, yet feels familiar at every turn; the music takes routes one may not expect, but remains easily digestible for any listener.  Of course, for the fan of strange instrumentals, and experimental avenues, Free Swim is a must-listen.

The first track, "Catacombs", jumps in with a tribal dance vibe, and immediately showcases the smooth groove work by bassist, Jesse Miller, which is prevalent throughout the album. "Turtlehead" floats dancing guitars for easy listening, while the title track, "Free Swim", picks up the pace for a brighter tune.  The first standout gem of this album is "Sepia Rainbow", with its tight surfer rock guitar, wailing church organ, and saucy groove. Then, "One-Eyed Jones", creates a dreamy, brassy landscape with more floating melodies.

"Bjorn Gets a Haircut" has a unique mix and quality of instrument and sample choices, and definitely makes for one of the most fun tracks on the album. "Straight Blade" has a great rush rhythm, while "Earl of Grey" provides a smooth, mid-tempo jam. "Snake Island" feels like a party, with bright, fast distorted guitars and a dance rhythm.  Finally, "Land of the Lush" closes out the album with a gorgeous ballad, building to a large, cathartic finish.

Mike Greenfield’s drums and Chuck Morris’s percussion has consistent life in the rhythm, and communicates well with Jesse Miller’s bass and synth work. Luke Miller’s keys fill out each song in various ways, and in many cases provide an interesting syncopated feel; and his guitar work, along with Mike Rempel, are the perfect leads for most of these songs. And the composition for each song, as well as the arrangement for instruments is incredible. Altogether, with beautiful mixing from the production team, Lotus has created an eclectic track-list, which is impossible not to bump your head to, and simply never gets boring.

After a few spins around the block, I can honestly tell you that Free Swim is an incredible production from top to bottom and one you won't want to sleep on.  For those who enjoy experimental and creative music, Lotus has taken this one to a whole new level and does not fail to impress at every corner.  Free Swim is definitely one of the most pleasantly unique albums of the year and one you definitely need to add to your personal collection.  It's available on all streaming platforms and even on vinyl, so grab a copy today and let me know what you think after the needle drops!

As always, be well and rock on!     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  8.7 out of 10

Artist:  Lotus  LP: Free Swim,   Release Date: August 21st, 2020,   Label:  Lotus Vibes Music

Matthew Raymond Hauri better known as Yung Gravy. The 24-year-old American rapper signed to Republic Records has been making a name for himself. Yung Gravy was born in Rochester, Minnesota where he attended the University of Wisconsin in Madison to earn his degree in marketing in 2017. He started his music career on Soundcloud back in college and quit his job to dedicate his passion towards music. The young artist released a new single and music video called "Yep!". 

-Drew Hollinger

Stryper certainly wasn't the first Christian Metal band to appear on the scene.  However, they arguably are the most successful with razor-sharp guitars, atmospheric vocals, and incredibly pleasing melodies that created a unique space for their positive message during the 1980's and beyond.  In addition to their amazing studio albums, Stryper is a fantastic live band and with high-energy shows that rival some of the best in the business across all genres. That said, it was inevitable they would become the darlings of MTV back in the day and ultimately one of the biggest rock bands on the planet during that era.  However, it was evident then that the struggle was real as Stryper faced an uphill battle trying to infuse a Christian message into a genre of music that generally is associated with the darker side of things.  Through hard work, determination, and a rabid fan-base, they persevered where most bands of their time fell by the wayside.  

After enduring a hiatus during the '90s, Stryper emerged stronger and more confident in their own skin and put out some of the most potent music of their career.  Following suit with their latest, Even the Devil Believes, they take it to a whole new level with an 11-track album album that challenges the mind and inspires the soul.  Michael Sweet's vocals are still top-notch, and the musicianship from other band members including Oz Fox (guitar), Robert Sweet (drums), and newcomer Perry Richardson (bass), complement each other in incredible ways that showcase this immensely talented band.  Upon dropping the needle on their latest, fans are immediately blown away with their opening salvo, "Blood from Above."  Listeners are immediately immersed into a transcendent track which could be the best song on the album and fit for opening of an upcoming live show.  Stryper's signature guitar sound, amazing harmonies, and patented screams are all there on display from the get go and it only gets better from there.

While most can recognize a Stryper song within a few notes, it is interesting to see how the band has evolved lyrically with each new album.  This record is in stark contrast to their previous release, God Damn Evil, where they took an aggressive, often angry angle condemning all things sin.  Even the Devil Believes seems to take a complete 180 with a much needed message of hope and love while keeping their unique edge in tact, sending us a welcome respite to this crazy year we are all having to endure.  "Let Him In," an upbeat flat-out rocker, showcases how good this band still is,  showcasing brilliant backing vocals which power Stryper's unmistakable choruses and will surely be welcoming sound for the longtime Stryper fan.  The title track "Even the Devil Believes" reveals itself as a surefire fist-pumper, which leads into "How to Fly", an engaging throwback song that will instantly transport you back to the '80s. 

My personal favorite on the record, however, is the track "Divider."  This one confronts those who go to great lengths to upset the apple cart for their enjoyment, all with some of the most vicious guitars on the entire album.  "For God and Rock ‘n Roll" is another that pays homage to all things classic Stryper, which opens the door to the album's closer, "Middle Finger Messiah."  It' a musical exclamation point which again showcases the musical prowess of this seasoned band.  Once you listen to this one, you'll immediately recognize something in the chorus as it pays homage to an unmistakable melody will surely make you "taste the fire on your tongue".

Stryper has come a long way since the secular hits "Calling on You," "Honestly" and "Always There For You", for sure.  While they may not currently be breaking any new musical barriers this time around, they are still putting out high-quality kick-ass music some 40 years later and that's no easy feat.  Stryper's signature sound and incredible musicianship is on full-display throughout this album with inspirational lyrics much needed in this day and age.  Longtime fans will love their latest and new ones will be immediately pulled into the fold after the first track - it's that good.   And to all the haters out their, Stryper has nothing to prove with this release.  Their legacy has withstood the test of time, and their latest release, Even the Devil Believes, is no exception to their amazing legacy.   

As always, be well, and wash your hands...     Hunnypot Approved!     Overall Rating:  9.1 out of 10

Artist:  Stryper  LP: Even the Devil Believes,   Release Date: September, 2nd, 2020,   Label:  Frontiers Music SLR

This post and review is in honor of John McAteer.  John died suddenly on Sunday evening (10/20/2020) due to a heart attack. He was an avid Stryper fan and the new album made him smile and its all he could talk about as of recent. Let’s all pray for the family and specifically for John’s wife, Paula as well as his son Nathan.