New Artist: Audrye Sessions

I've written briefly about this up-and-coming band from California, but with their debut LP out today, I thought a more formal introduction would be appropriate. Audrye Sessions was founded in 2002 by singer Ryan Karazija and guitarist (now bassist) Alicia Marie Campbell and currently includes Michael Knox and James Leste on guitar and drums respectively. The group released their eponymous debut EP last year in October, and now bring a full-fledged album (also self-titled) to the table.

The most powerful weapon in the band's arsenal is Karazija's voice. His striking vocals sound, at times, remarkably similar to Muse singer Matthew Bellamy, and thus something like Thom Yorke of Radiohead. Audrye Sessions occasionally channel the emotion and energy of these bands and others, but the group's alt-rock sound contains a unique identity just the same. Their debut is equal parts bombastic rockers and slow, melancholy ballads, both of which they do well. "Turn Me Off," "Julianna," and "The Paper Face," all from the first half of their new record, feature driving guitars, epic choruses, and Karaija's voice raised into a near-wail resulting in a dramatic and emotional ride.

However, while the louder rock tunes make for some great moments, the group's more delicate songs really shine. The second half of the album has several beautiful ballads, like the slow-building "New Year's Day" and the simply gentle "The Crows Came In," and some songs that combine intensity with elegance in a engaging mixture that shows the band's versatility. Audrye Sessions is a promising album and a nice start from a band that should soon be getting some well-deserved attention, so check these guys out on MySpace, or two of my earlier posts for a couple of free songs to get you started.

Audrye Sessions debut LP out next week, free song while you wait

California quartet Audrye Sessions are set to release their self-titled debut on February 17, but you can download "New Years Day," from the upcoming album, below. The songs is delicate and beautiful, reminiscent of some of Radiohead's earlier work and is very much worth your time to give it a listen. Previously, I gave away the band's equally gorgeous cover of Elliot Smith's Waltz #2.

New Years Day (MP3)


Also, check out these tour dates and see if the Audrye Sessions is playing somewhere close by:

TOUR DATES
Feb 10 * Black Cafe * Stockton, California
Feb 11 * Blue Lamp * Sacramento, California
Feb 12 * WOW Hall (w/ Helio Sequence) * Eugene, Oregon
Feb 13 * The New Frontier Lounge * Tacoma, Washington
Feb 15 * Neumo’s (KNDD Valentine’s Show) * Seattle, Washington
Feb 18 * The Troubadour ( w/ As Tall As Lions) * West Hollywood, California
Feb 19 * Bottom of The Hill ( w/ As Tall As Lions) * San Francisco, California
Feb 20 * Amoeba Records Instore * Berkeley, California
Feb 20 * The Venue * Los Gatos, California
Feb 21 * Jensen’s Mainstage * Santa Barbara, California
Feb 22 * Detroit Bar * Costa Mesa, California
Feb 23 * Modified Arts * Phoenix, Arizona
Feb 24 * Casbah * San Diego, California
Feb 26 * Jerry’s Pizza * Bakersfield, California

MP3 Monday: Meaghan Smith, Audrye Sessions

Our first songs comes from Meaghan Smith, a singer/songwriter hailing from Nova Scotia of all places. Her debut EP The Cricket's Quartet is out now on iTunes, a classic, soulful record reminiscent of orchestral pop music from the 20s and 30s. On "Little Love," Meaghan's smooth, sultry voice is backed by a full band (horns, keys, bass, guitar, flute, etc.) and even some turntable scratches for a an extra kick. Take a listen; actually, just go ahead and keep it.

Little Love

www.meaghansmith.com

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Last, but certainly not least, we have an Elliot Smith cover performed by alt-rock band Audrye Sessions. Their self-titled debut EP is available at iTunes and in stores, with a full-length album due out in February of next year. The hauntingly beautiful atmosphere of "Waltz #2" makes it a cover worth getting your hands (or ears) on, especially because you won't find this on the EP.

Waltz #2

www.myspace.com/audryesessions