Digital Music Review: Road Man's 'Light At The Speed Of Life'

Road Man
Light At The Speed Of Life
Soulspazm

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Road Man is the name of Jon Petronzio's group, which spreads great grooves and hook-laden melodies in rock, reggae, down-tempo, and electronica formats. The New York-based band-leader creates funky, moving rhythms that rival the electronica leanings of Action Figure Party and a few reggae beats indicative of Bob Marley and Cas Haley. "The Meeting" is a funky, rock-laden tune with a Southern angst and contemporary appeal that incorporates a bluesy and roots feel. "Chosen" is a psychedelic fun-fest with glittering electronics and a funky beat with great vocals. "Dangerous Road" is a syncopated beat delight with reggae leanings and funk melodies that awaken everyone into a dance mood. "Lights Camera Action" brings together more of an urban dance feel with glistening electronica, swishy percussion, and fast vocals. "Run Away With Me" is another reggae beat gem with throbbing B3 organ sounds representing a roots-centric fixture. The diversity in tracks is exceptional and the melodies are well worth repeated listens. You can dance, relax, space out, and move your hips to the music of Road Man without having any guilt or apprehension. 5 Stars (out of 5). ~ Matthew Forss

CD Review: Cas Haley's 'La Si Dah'

Cas Haley
La Si Dah
Easy Star Records

Probably best-known for his performances on America's Got Talent, Cas Haley continues to prove he has what it takes to succeed. He traverses the world of reggae, jazz, rock, pop, folk, blues, and roots on his latest release, La Si Dah. "Jackson" is a rock and reggae-tinged, instrumental opener. "La Dah" is a breezy tune with light guitar and percussion sounds with some piano. The reggae-tinged, vibe-driven "Mama" is a classic tune. The slower and jazz-driven tune, "Wait For Me," contains a bit of blues. "Capricorn" opens with some piano, drums, and alternative guitar stylings with a reggae beat. It is refreshing to listen to great songs that are not only original, but different, too. Fans of Cas will love it and new fans will pick up on the reggae grooves, bluesy guitar stylings, and sincere vocals. Though, Cas' home-base is in Texas, the music does not reflect any such influence. Try it today! ~ Matthew Forss  

CD Review: Cas Haley's 'Gifts To Give'

Cas Haley
Gifts To Give
Easy Star Records

Probably best-known for his America's Got Talent performances, Cas Haley has lit up the stage across the country with his own brew of Texan-blues-reggae music over the past few years. On this release, Cas starts out with an original Christmas tune, "Gifts To Give," which sets the bar high for the remainder of the album. Cas' unique vocal tricks and vocal swagger is welcoming and never obtuse or harsh. Also, Cas adds his own trumpet embellishments with his voice. In addition, a variety of scat lyrics and finger-snapping sets the acoustic and family-friendly tone of his music. Iconic Christmas classics, such as "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," Rudolph, The Red-Nosed Reindeer," and "The Christmas Song" are made personal by Cas' inherent singing abilities and warm guitar strumming. The music is charming, sweet, and carefree without straying too far from the original compositions. Give the gift of joy this season with Cas Haley at your side. ~ Matthew Forss