Tag: EKM

  • Exploring ‘Feels So Right’: Edwina van Kuyk’s Vulnerable New EP

    Exploring ‘Feels So Right’: Edwina van Kuyk’s Vulnerable New EP

    Singer-songwriter Edwina van Kuyk (pronounced kow-k) makes a striking return with her most personal and vulnerable project to date — Feels So Right, a three-track EP that explores the art of surrender, the strength of friendship, and the courage to trust oneself. Released on October 28 across all streaming platforms, the release marks a pivotal moment in van Kuyk’s career, showcasing not only her growth as a musician but also her evolution as a storyteller who dares to embrace life’s chaos and transform it into beauty.

    At its core, Feels So Right is a meditation on letting go and following intuition, themes that resonate deeply with van Kuyk’s own journey. “Life doesn’t always make sense,” she reflects, “but when something feels right, you have to go with it.” This philosophy permeates the EP, which is sonically rich and emotionally grounded. Nostalgic vocals intertwine with soulful grooves and radiant melodies, creating a soundscape that feels both timeless and contemporary. Each track glows with a balance of vulnerability and confidence, inviting listeners to step into van Kuyk’s world of honesty and self-discovery.

    About the New Release — The opening track, “Tailspin,” sets the tone with its metaphorical exploration of surrender. Using the imagery of an aircraft spiraling out of control, van Kuyk turns turbulence into catharsis, offering a powerful reflection on the necessity of embracing uncertainty rather than resisting it. The song’s layered production and soaring vocals capture the tension between fear and release, ultimately reminding listeners that chaos can be a gateway to clarity and growth.

    Following this, “Never Not To Know Each Other Again” delivers the emotional centerpiece of the EP. Written in memory of her late friend Anouk, whom she met during a songwriting retreat, the track is both a tribute and a testament to the transformative power of friendship. With heartfelt lyrics and tender instrumentation, van Kuyk honors the way Anouk’s creativity and warmth shaped her artistic outlook. “Anouk taught me to trust my gut and believe in my music,” she shares. The song beautifully illustrates how strangers can become family, leaving indelible marks that continue to inspire long after they are gone.

    The EP closes with its title track, “Feels So Right,” an anthem of confidence and creative freedom. Here, van Kuyk sheds the weight of external opinions and embraces the joy of creating from intuition. “I’ve spent years listening to other people’s opinions,” she admits. “Now I just want to make music that feels right to me.” The track radiates empowerment, encouraging listeners to silence doubt and lean into the authenticity of their own voices. It is a fitting conclusion to an EP that celebrates self-trust and artistic liberation.

    Across all three songs, van Kuyk achieves a delicate balance between emotional vulnerability and grounded production. The EP’s sonic palette mirrors its thematic core: the act of letting go, trusting oneself, and finding peace in the unknown. With its intimate yet universal message, Feels So Right becomes more than just a collection of songs — it is a reminder to create, to live, and to love for the purest reason of all: because it feels right. The project was written by Edwina van Kuyk, Cian O’Donoghue, and Gabrielle Deschamps (on “Tailspin”), produced and mixed by Cian O’Donoghue, and mastered by Pete Maher, ensuring a polished sound that still retains its heartfelt sincerity.

    About The Artist — Edwina van Kuyk has steadily built a reputation as one of Ireland’s most compelling emerging voices. Her recent single, “Never Not To Know Each Other Again,” garnered strong national radio support, earning airplay on RTÉ 2FM, 98FM, and Today FM. Previous releases have been met with widespread acclaim, including recognition from Hot Press as Track of the Day and The Bops Collective’s Pick of the Week. Her music has also been featured on influential playlists such as The Last Mixed Tape, IMRO’s New Music Ireland, MCD, and Golden Plec, cementing her place in the contemporary Irish music landscape.

    Beyond her recordings, van Kuyk’s artistry shines in live performance. She has graced Ireland’s most beloved venues — from The Ruby Sessions and Dolans to The Workman’s Club and Crow Bar — and captivated audiences at major festivals including Electric Picnic, Longitude, and All Together Now. Her collaborations as a vocalist and songwriter span both Irish and international projects, while her global reach has taken her to stages in the USA, including Nashville’s iconic Bluebird Café and Austin’s Continental Club, as well as live performances on Argentina’s Perros de la Calle radio.

    Our Thoughts — With a dynamic presence and a voice that resonates across borders, Edwina van Kuyk continues to establish herself as an artist whose music is both deeply personal and universally relatable.

    Listen to “Feels So Right below, and follow Edwina van Kuyk on Instagram.

  • Dani Felt Unveils New Cinematic Reimagining of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” — Out Now

    Dani Felt Unveils New Cinematic Reimagining of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” — Out Now

    Indie Pop artist Dani Felt closes out the year with a breathtaking cinematic reimagining of one of the most cherished holiday standards, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” Available now on all major streaming platforms, the single offers listeners a dreamy, atmospheric interpretation that honors the timeless original while introducing a fresh, modern sensibility.

    With this release, Dani invites audiences into a soundscape that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking, capturing the essence of the season in a way that resonates deeply.

    About the New Release — The track is produced by Ernest Lee and mixed by Dallas Jack, two collaborators who help bring Dani’s vision to life with precision and artistry. Together, they weave lush layers of sound that highlight Dani’s soulful vocals against moody, contemporary pop textures. The result is a version of the holiday classic that feels cinematic in scope—an immersive listening experience that balances tradition with innovation, making it a standout addition to the holiday music canon.

    Interestingly, the song’s journey began as part of a film pitch, intended to underscore a cinematic moment with emotional resonance. Yet, as the recording process unfolded, it became clear that the track carried a weight and beauty that transcended its initial purpose. The final version demanded to be shared beyond the screen, offering listeners a chance to experience its warmth and reflective tone in their own lives. Dani’s rendition captures the delicate interplay of joy and longing that defines the holiday season, reminding us of the bittersweet emotions that often accompany this time of year.

    “I wanted to put out something magical for the end of the year to reach everyone’s hearts for the holidays,” Dani shares. That intention is evident in every note of the performance. Her voice carries a quiet strength, delivering the lyrics with sincerity and tenderness. The arrangement, rich yet understated, allows the emotional core of the song to shine through, creating a moment of stillness and connection in the midst of holiday chaos.

    About The Artist — Dani Felt has carved out a unique space in the indie pop landscape. Praised by outlets such as Medium Magazine, Nashville.com, and Girl Boss, she is celebrated for her bold sound and empowering message. Dani’s music is defined by authenticity and vulnerability, qualities that allow her to connect with audiences on a deeply personal level. Through her songs, she encourages listeners to embrace individuality, self-expression, and the courage to live unapologetically.

    Our Thoughts — Listeners will find that Dani’s version of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” is not just another cover—it is a cinematic experience in itself. The track invites audiences to slow down, breathe, and reflect on the people and memories that matter most. It is intimate yet expansive, offering a soundtrack for both quiet evenings by the fire and festive gatherings with loved ones. In this way, Dani’s artistry transforms the familiar into something profoundly new, while still honoring the spirit of the original.

    Listen to “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” below, and follow Dani Felt on Instagram.

  • Stonestreet Studios Premieres Eight Films At This Year’s Big Apple Film Festival

    Stonestreet Studios Premieres Eight Films At This Year’s Big Apple Film Festival

    Stonestreet Studios made a triumphant return to the Big Apple Film Festival earlier this month, presenting eight films across multiple programs from November 10–13. This impressive slate highlights the studio’s expansive creative reach and its unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. With a reputation for blending mentorship and innovation, Stonestreet continues to demonstrate why it remains a cornerstone of independent film in New York City.

    The eight films that premiered were all produced by Stonestreet co-founders Alyssa Rallo Bennett and Gary O. Bennett, underscoring the studio’s collaborative model that has defined its legacy. Among the standout titles were Harvard—written and directed by Gary O. Bennett and starring Alyssa—and Schrödinger’s Cat, directed by Alyssa and written by Gary, which features one of Alyssa’s original songs. These projects exemplify the duo’s creative synergy, while the remaining six films showcase the talents of directors who emerged from Stonestreet’s residency program, continuing a 34-year tradition of transforming actor-storytellers into multifaceted filmmakers.

    The lineup reflected Stonestreet’s signature blend of socially conscious, character-driven, and genre-spanning storytelling. Audiences can expect a diverse range of narratives, from introspective dramas that explore the human condition to absurdist comedies that challenge conventions, and speculative fiction that pushes the boundaries of imagination. This breadth of storytelling not only demonstrates the versatility of Stonestreet’s filmmakers but also reinforces the studio’s commitment to cultivating bold, original voices.

    Stonestreet Studios
    Premiere poster provided by: EKM

    “We’re thrilled to have eight films at Big Apple this season—each one reflecting a unique voice, collaboration, and creative spark,” say Stonestreet co-founders Alyssa Rallo Bennett and Gary O. Bennett. “This lineup represents the full spectrum of storytelling we champion at Stonestreet, from the deeply personal to the boldly experimental.” Their statement captures the essence of the studio’s mission: to empower creators to tell stories that resonate on both intimate and universal levels.

    As Stonestreet Studios celebrates its 34th year of original filmmaking and artistic mentorship, its strong presence at the Big Apple Film Festival serves as a testament to its enduring influence. The studio has consistently championed socially relevant narratives, cultivating films that spark dialogue around cultural, political, and emotional themes. This year’s showcase not only honors its legacy but also points toward a future where independent voices continue to thrive under Stonestreet’s guidance.

    The festival premiere also highlights the studio’s unique residency program, which has long been a pipeline for emerging talent. By encouraging actor-storytellers to write, direct, shoot, and edit their own work, Stonestreet fosters a holistic approach to filmmaking that empowers artists to take ownership of their creative visions. This model has proven to be transformative, producing filmmakers who are not only versatile but also deeply attuned to the power of storytelling in shaping cultural conversations.

    Stonestreet Studios body of work spans award-winning socially speculative feature films such as ReRUN (Christopher Lloyd), Rain Without Thunder (Jeff Daniels, Linda Hunt, Steve Zahn), and The Pack (Luci Arnaz, Elisabeth Moss), as well as pilots, web series, and MicroMovies featured in dozens of international festivals including Tribeca, Newport Beach, Soho International, Sedona, and Toronto Independent Film Festival. Known as an incubator of socially conscious, character-driven, and culturally provocative content, Stonestreet has built a reputation for pushing boundaries while nurturing talent through its residency program for NYU Tisch Drama.

    Over the years, Stonestreet has developed an impressive roster of alumni who have gone on to achieve remarkable success in film, television, and theater. Notable names include Miles Teller (Whiplash, Divergent), Rachel Brosnahan (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, House of Cards), Camila Mendes (Riverdale), Danny Ramirez (Top Gun: Maverick), Beanie Feldstein (Booksmart), Xosha Roquemore (The Mindy Project), Francesca Reale (Stranger Things), Ximena Lamadrid (Bardo), Idina Menzel (Frozen), Rachel Sennott (Shiva Baby, Bottoms), and Nik Walker (Hamilton).

    With films streaming worldwide, Stonestreet Studios continues to stand as a beacon of independent filmmaking, mentorship, and cultural innovation.

  • Listen to “American Doll”, The New Album by Jae.Ci — Out Now

    Listen to “American Doll”, The New Album by Jae.Ci — Out Now

    A new voice has been introduced to the world of music. Lyric soprano and songwriter Jae.Ci (Jae Carelli) has released their debut album, American Doll. The album features seven tracks. It was created to explore the emotional journey of transracial and international adoption through music, storytelling, and vulnerability.

    The album was inspired by personal experiences. Jae.Ci was adopted from Korea and raised in an Italian-American family. Their story has been shared through music and performance. A sold-out premiere of their original show, Homeward Bound, was held in New York at The Cell. The show will be brought to Boston on June 7 at Somerville Music Spaces. Tickets can be purchased online.

    About The New Release — In Homeward Bound, songs from American Doll are combined with classical works by American composers. These include Samuel Barber, Tom Cipullo, Carlisle Floyd, Bo Konigsmark, and Matthew Jihoon Pellegrino. The music is used to reflect Jae.Ci’s lived experience. The show blends classical and contemporary styles to tell a story that is both personal and universal.

    Photo provided by: Jae.Ci

    The idea for the album came after attending a conference. Jae.Ci and their sister went to the Korean Adoptee/Adoptive Family Network Conference in 2023. A session about the seven core issues of adoption was attended. These issues—loss, loyalty, control, identity, abandonment, trust, and shame—were found to be deeply connected to Jae.Ci’s life. The themes were used to shape the album.

    Each song on American Doll was written to reflect one of those core issues. The music is paired with storytelling that is often humorous, yet deeply emotional. Through this work, JAE.CI has challenged the common narratives around adoption. The voices of adoptees, which have often been silenced, are given space and strength.

    The music on American Doll reflects a dual identity. Classical and contemporary vocal techniques are used to show contrast. Korean and Italian-American cultures are blended. The result is a sound that feels sacred and rebellious, studied and spontaneous. The album is not only a musical journey—it is a cultural reckoning.

    About The ArtistJae.Ci is known for her wide musical background. She has trained in classical voice, piano, organ, flute, and harp. These skills have shaped her approach as a singer-songwriter. Her work bridges the gap between classical and modern music. In her voice studio, students are encouraged to sing their truth and find strength through music.

    A painful truth was discovered in September 2024. It was learned that South Korea had profited from the adoption of over 250,000 children, including Jae.Ci and their siblings. This information was reported by The New York Times in March 2025. “My whole life, I was told I should be grateful,” JAE.CI said. “But that message erased my pain. I decided to reclaim my story and sing my truth.”

    With American Doll, a powerful debut has been made. The album invites listeners to reflect, feel, and connect. Through music, Jae.Ci has shared a story that is both personal and important. Their voice has been heard—and it will continue to resonate.

    Listen to “American Doll and follow Jae.Ci on Instagram, TikTok, and their website.

  • Anna Called: The New DIY 24-Track Album by Pascale Cheron

    Anna Called: The New DIY 24-Track Album by Pascale Cheron

    After two years of writing, recording, and mixing entirely on her own, Pascale Cheron has released her debut 24-track album “Anna Called“, now available on streaming platforms. The earlier released soulful, meditative title single named “Anna Called” is also.

    To celebrate the release, Pascale is embarking on a spring and summer tour across the East and West Coasts alongside longtime friend and collaborator Sophia Eliana. Titled the Experimental Bangs Tour, the run kicks off May 10th in Bar Harbor, ME, and culminates at the Underground Music Festival in Denver in late July. Along the way, Pascale will be performing with local bands comprised of both friends and musicians she discovered through TikTok, creating a genre-fluid live experience rooted in connection, improvisation, and discovery.

    About The New Release — “My name was Anna, but my mom changed it to Pascale when I was born,” says Pascale. “She tells me my name has a letter for each one of my aunts. A perfectly consonant string of them all. In honor of the women who made me. The sound of my name. I wrote, recorded, and mixed each song on this album over two years,” says Pascale. “This album is for Anna.”

    Anna Called moves through serene ambient landscapes, soulful vocal improvisations, and dreamy experimental textures. Its sound is both intimate and expansive, layering meditative rhythms with powerful bursts of emotion. Each track unfolds like a memory—fluid, surprising, and deeply personal—creating a sonic journey that honors identity, reinvention, and the women who shaped her.

    About The Artist — Pascale Cheron is a singer-songwriter whose musical identity is deeply rooted in jazz, yet effortlessly transcends genre boundaries. Her work is marked by a rare fusion of technical mastery and emotional depth, making her a standout figure in contemporary music. As a composer, producer, and vocalist, she brings a multidimensional approach to her craft, weaving together intricate harmonies, evocative lyrics, and atmospheric soundscapes. Her artistry reflects a deep understanding of both musical tradition and innovation, allowing her to create pieces that are both timeless and forward-thinking.

    A recent graduate of UC Berkeley, Pascale earned dual degrees in Society & Environment and Music, a combination that speaks to her holistic vision as an artist and activist. Her academic background informs her creative process, enabling her to explore themes of ecological consciousness, social justice, and human connection through her music. She views songwriting not only as a form of personal expression but also as a tool for cultural dialogue and transformation. Her goal is to foster awareness and empathy through her work, often collaborating with visual artists, filmmakers, and community organizers to amplify her message.

    Critics and listeners alike have praised Pascale’s music for its “striking atmosphere … where emotional power and dreaminess meet,” as noted by Various Small Flames. Her sound is often described as hauntingly ethereal, with an improvisatory approach to melody that evokes both vulnerability and strength. Drawing inspiration from artists like Joni Mitchell, Esperanza Spalding, and Björk, Pascale blends jazz phrasing with ambient textures and poetic lyricism. Her performances are known for their intimacy and spontaneity, often incorporating live looping and vocal layering to create immersive sonic experiences.

    Since 2018, Pascale has written over 75 original songs, showcasing her prolific creativity and dedication to her craft. She has released three full-length albums and a series of singles that span themes from climate grief to personal healing. Her discography reflects a journey of artistic evolution, with each project revealing new facets of her musical and emotional landscape. Whether recording in a studio or performing live, Pascale maintains a commitment to authenticity and experimentation, constantly pushing the boundaries of her sound.

    Her touring experience has taken her across the globe, performing both as a solo artist and as a collaborator with other musicians. Highlights include appearances at the Alien Disko Festival at the Volkstheater in Munich, Germany, the Center for New Media and Audio Technologies in Berkeley, the Monterey Jazz Festival, and the Sonoma Bluegrass Festival. These performances have allowed her to connect with diverse audiences and share her message on international stages. Pascale’s live shows are celebrated for their emotional resonance and technical finesse, often leaving a lasting impression on those in attendance.

    Listen to “Anna Called and follow Pascale Cheron on Instagram as she continues to explore the intersection of music, activism, and community.

  • Sarah Bernstein Debuts New Era With “Loser Of The Year”

    Sarah Bernstein Debuts New Era With “Loser Of The Year”

    Sarah Bernstein has risen to new heights with the single “Loser of the Year.” This is a departure from her previous works. Bernstein meticulously crafted a composition that authentically captures the essence of early 2000s angsty Pop Rock, drawing inspiration from iconic influences such as Fall Out Boy and the Freaky Friday (2003) soundtrack.

    Through the intricate process of writing, performing, and recording the song, Bernstein found confidence, a sentiment that permeates the single’s very fabric. “Loser of the Year” is not merely a song; it is an invitation for listeners to experience and embrace the artist’s self-assured spirit vicariously.

    About the New Release — “Loser of the Year” underwent a transformative evolution. “As a songwriter, the song is meaningful to me in a whole different way. I haven’t shared this yet, but it’s actually adapted from a song I wrote at 17,” says Bernstein. “I came across it in the archives of an old laptop last summer and shared it with my boyfriend Allan. Shockingly, it didn’t make either of us cringe. Instead, there was actually something really special about it that I noticed my songs didn’t have anymore. I’m happy to have that back.”

    “Loser of the Year” was written by Sarah Bernstein and produced by Bernstein and her mentor, Shane Adams. It was engineered and mixed by Kenny Varga, and recorded in Nashville at Coop DeVille Studio featuring drums by Wes Little, bass by Luis Espaillat, guitar by Justin Ostrander, and piano by Shane Adams.

    With mastering by Alex Dobbert at True East Mastering, this release marks a defining moment in Sarah Bernstein’s career, showcasing not only musical prowess but a deep-seated connection with their own narrative and a commitment to inspiring confidence in others.

    About The Artist — A German-American Singer/Songwriter, after recording her EP Man in the Moon in Germany at 17 and publishing her music across streaming platforms, Sarah Bernstein’s original song ‘Boomerang’ went on to be a semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition. After initially attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, MA, she transferred to Fordham University, where she found home in New York City. Her self-produced EP Spellbound is an ode to her time here, now approaching a decade.

    During the pandemic, Sarah’s focus shifted from the stage back to songwriting and the studio. After returning to Berklee through their online certificate program, she was introduced to her mentor and producer, Shane. In November 2020, she traveled to Nashville for the first time. Her song ‘Till 3am’ was the first of five singles recorded there as she evolved her sound over the next three years. In July 2022, her single ‘Maxine’ debuted on German radio as part of Bayern 3’s Newcomer contest.

    In 2023, Bernstein was thrilled to return to the stage to perform six solo shows beginning at The Mint in Los Angeles. She also crossed several iconic New York City venues off her bucket list, making her debut at Rockwood Music Hall and the legendary Bitter End (…twice) later that year. Her next release, “A Woman Like Me,” is currently in production and scheduled to be released this spring.

    Listen to “Loser Of The Year”.

  • Brea Fournier & the Dream Ballet’s Debut Album “Manic Pixie Dream Girl!” to Debut at City Winery NYC

    Brea Fournier & the Dream Ballet’s Debut Album “Manic Pixie Dream Girl!” to Debut at City Winery NYC

    Brea Fournier & The Dream Ballet have unveiled their latest musical masterpiece, Manic Pixie Dream Girl!, a 17-track Pop-Punk feminist album that follows the journey of a twenty-something free-spirited woman who rebels against her assigned role as a shallow indie film trope.

    The album will debut its one-of-a-kind cabaret show at City Winery NYC on March 11 at 7:30 pm. The live performance promises an immersive experience, blending the energetic spirit of pop-punk with the intimate storytelling of a cabaret and showcasing the band’s versatility and passion as they guide the audience through the rebellious journey of Manic Pixie Dream Girl! Tickets are on sale now.

    About the New Release — Manic Pixie Dream Girl! was conceptualized and written by Brea Fournier, produced by Barb Morrison, engineered by Jeremy Kinney, Matt Graff, Dan Malsch, and Sam Warfield, mixed by Jonathan Jetter, mastered by Randy Merrill, and features lead guitar by Ben Shanblatt, bass by Noah Rosner, drums/percussion by Sophia Bondi, backing vocals by Sophia Bondi, Noah Rosner, and Ben Shanblatt, and lead vocals and rhythm guitars by Brea Fournier.

    The album boldly challenges and redefines the stereotypical portrayal of its titular character, delving into the struggles of self-perception and societal expectations and infusing a feminist perspective into its pop-punk sound. Through a dynamic exploration of the character’s inner monologue, the music captures her journey of breaking free from societal limitations, pushing back against the confines of the male gaze, and ultimately seeking to become the protagonist in her own narrative. Listen today on all streaming platforms.

    About The Artist — Brea Fournier, the visionary force behind the band, has a rich history of captivating audiences in iconic NYC venues such as The Bitter End, Heaven Can Wait, and Mercury Lounge, as well as in California, Seattle, and Salt Lake City.

    Brea Fournier & the Dream Ballet is an NYC-based pop-rock/pop-punk collective. Composed of singer and songwriter Brea Fournier, guitarist Ben Shanblatt, drummer Sophia Bondi, and bassist Noah Rosner, their sound has been described as “Paramore, but in the ’80s” and “Joan Jett attitude meets Joni Mitchell lyricism.” In February of 2024, the band released their debut rock opera Manic Pixie Dream Girl!, recorded with producer Barb Morrison (Franz Ferdinand/Blondie). In the summer of 2023, the Dream Ballet hit the road for a West Coast Tour, making stops at legendary venues such as The Triple Door in Seattle and Kilby Court in Salt Lake City.

    Fournier is a graduate of the Clive Davis Institute, where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Recorded Music. With a background in musical theatre and classical voice and a passion for feminist rock music, Fournier blends all the colors of her musical palette in her live performances, giving fans an eclectic display of unapologetic hyper-femininity they won’t soon forget.

    Listen to Manic Pixie Dream Girl!”.