Joseph Maltese

1 month ago | musicconnection.com | Joseph Maltese

Hollywood Palladium  Los Angeles, CAContact: [email protected]:instagram.com/gaflosangelesPlayers: Courtney Barnett, Hayley Williams, Muna, Reggie Watts, Phantom PlanetThe Hollywood Palladium hosted the G*ve A F*ck LA wildfire benefit concert, uniting a diverse lineup of artists to support victims of the recent California wildfires.

2 months ago | musicconnection.com | Joseph Maltese

BandcampProducers: Nick Launay, VariousThis powerful benefit compilation for Sweet Relief Musicians Fund unites artists to support fire victims, curated by Kevin Haskins (Love and Rockets, Bauhaus) and producer Nick Launay (Yeah Yeah Yeahs).

2 months ago | musicconnection.com | Joseph Maltese

Distributed by: Asthmatic Kitty RecordsProducer: Sufjan StevensWitmer’s collection of folk songs reflect on life’s simplicity and the importance of community. Produced by longtime collaborator Sufjan Stevens, the album features Witmer’s gentle vocals and acoustic guitar, complemented by lush strings, woodwinds, and choral elements. Tracks like “Focus Ring” exemplify the Witmer’s introspective nature, exploring themes of family (“Brother’s Keeper”) and living more intentionally (“Older and Free”).

2 months ago | musicconnection.com | Joseph Maltese

Distributed by Colemine RecordsProducers: Steve Okonski, Leroi ConroyOkonski’s Entrance Music showcases stellar musicianship, with intricate piano work and a tight rhythm section (Aaron Frazer on drums and Michael Montgomery on bass). The album leans into meditative (opener “October” is the standout), jazz-infused compositions, but its repetitive structures make it feel more like background music than an engaging listen. While technically impressive, the overall feels static.

2 months ago | musicconnection.com | Joseph Maltese

Interscope RecordsProduced by: Andrew WattWho can’t Brandi Carlile jam with?—Sound-garden, Joni Mitchell, Tanya Tucker—Collaborating with Sir Elton and Bernie Taupin throws down a heavy gauntlet, and the album delivers introspective ballads and a prayer for strength and hope. While this may not hold a candle (in the wind) to Yellow Brick Road, this cracker jack team bring their A-game, all under the musical direction of Watt, who has a track record of modernizing legends.