Radio Airplay Song: “Jamie's Song”

Overall Impression
Talented creative Team of Lori Cole Bobby Schiff and Art Hughes return with yet another dazzling musical showcase that blissfully re-imagines the Kenny Loggins classic "Cody's Song" in a way that breathes new life into the track whilst respectfully paying tribute to the core elements that help define it. Any great cover in my eyes (and ears) should be able to do two things, and those are to successfully capture the essence of the original whilst doing something fresh and exciting with it, and that's exactly what Lori and Art have done with their own renamed version of Kenny's classic tune titled "Jamie's Song". Whilst the original was a predominately acoustic guitar-driven affair with added string and harmonica embellishments, Lori and Art's version offers a more expansive and majestic-sounding listening experience that boasts more pronounced sweeping string textures, tender piano moments, and finesse-filled brass elements, resulting in a truly enthralling cover that's able to stand proudly on its own two feet.

Being a Lori Cole and Art Hughes tune, it goes without saying that the performances were always going to spellbinding and thankfully this trend is most definitely followed in the case of "Jamie's Song". From the beautifully realized vocal elements to the passion-filled supporting instrumentation, the performances intertwine with one another in a truly delectable way, helping to ensure every delicately phrased melody, rhythmic flutter, and moment of dynamic flair draw the listener further into the warm embracing nature of the arrangement. Speaking of the arrangement, the level of craftsmanship on display is inspiring. The way the arrangement gracefully fleshes out the original track's core concepts is superb and between the expanded instrumentation and carefully re-worked structure, "Jamie's Song" is able to explore some particularly absorbing new textural and melodic ground, offering listeners a delightfully charming new take on Kenny Loggins' original.

“In Times Like These”

The Intention of this song and video is to shine a light on a reality that has been in the dark for far too long. Our Veterans who bravely protected our freedoms have been taking their own Lives at an alarming rate of 22 a day.

The sad fact is that most Americans have no idea that this is happening and how badly our veterans are suffering. They need our help now. There are many wonderful organizations supporting this cause. They require your donations to get our veterans the help they need.

This project is our attempt to start the conversation that lets our vets know help is there for them, and their lives mean everything to their families and all of us.

Learn and recognize the symptoms of depression, then get them help.

Like the song says, “Everyone knows Someone” show them you care! Please donate to the organization of your choice. Let’s all make a difference.

Song Review By “radioairplay”

Release the Week of 19 DEC 2022

“In Times Like These”

Overall Impression: There is power hidden behind an acoustic guitar melody that is able to transform and uplift the sourest of moods into something much more pleasant. Lori Cole / Jim Tullio have harnessed this power with their version of In Times Like These, and used it as a launch pad to inspire hope and good will. This Pop tune is incredibly easy on the ears, and seems to envelope the listener in warmth. It encourages coming together in strength to improve our world and our relationships. There is a strong sense of friendship and love that permeates all of the lyrics, particularly in the chorus. Lori Cole sings beautifully, and approaches the vocals with a relatability that leads you to believe she is singing directly to you. She captures the song's essence and gives a performance that touches the listener's heart. All in all, this is a wonderfully sweet and moving listen that uses its power for good.

Strongest Point(s): The chorus and melody in In Times Like These simultaneously warms the heart and sends chills down your back. It is moving, thoughtful, and expertly performed. Lori Cole really does a great job on the vocal work, and will surely gain more fans from this recording.

Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Pop and Easy Listening will enjoy In Times Like These covered by Lori Cole / Produced by Jim Tullio

Artist target suggestions: Paul Simon, The Beatles, Paul McCartney, John Lennon, Bill Withers, Elton John, Celine Dion, Rob Thomas, Kelly Clarkson, Katy Perry, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, Simon & Garfunkel, Aretha Franklin

About The Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional guitarist in New York City. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured the world as a classical chamber musician, onboard cruise lines, and with several Broadway musicals. His recorded work spans across Classical, Pop, and Experimental music. His arrangements are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.

There have been many artists that have done this cover song, however, Art, Steve and I saw this differently. This is a song to empower women to remind them of all those women that came before them. Those voices stand behind women of today, cheering them on to speak up and do what is needed to make their life and everyone else’s life just a little bit better. Never forgetting those people in the video how hard they worked to get done what needed to be done. (We know there are many, many more) They are strong and dedicated to their cause. Please share this video with your friends and if it makes their day just a little bit better that’s all we can ask for. having a daughter of my own, I know that I raised her to be a strong individual and not forget to speak up when she knows she’s right. Have a great day because our Fans have inspired us to do a better job every time we do a new song.

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Radio Review

Overall Impression:

There is something undeniably unique with regard to the way in which traditional Celtic music can evoke a strong sense of storytelling, it has a certain ambiance to it that breeds both intrigue and wonder, and as I am no stranger to the Lori Cole and Art Hughes warm welcoming blend of melody-driven songwriting and artful laced performances, I always look forward to hearing what this dynamic duo does next, and in this specific case, they tackle the thematically powerful "Savage Daughter" by Wyndreth Berginsdottir beautifully. Renowned for its message of empowerment and the deep importance of the power of unity, "Savage Garden" is a Celtic folk anthem that requires a delicate and vision-instilled musical touch in order for all of its distinct thematic intricacies to be effectively realized and I believe both Lori and Art have done a very fine job of capturing the very essence of the original source material whilst injecting their own distinct musical style into the song. With its towering percussive elements, free-flowing legato string and woodwind passages, and an elegant vocal performance at its helm, Lori Cole and Art Hughes's cover certainly deserve a listener's full attention.

Strongest Point(s):

As always Lori gives both a committed and tonally refined vocal performance that is able to really capture the profound sense of meaning behind each and every lyrical phrase that she conveys and she has a natural-sounding timbre to her voice that both nicely compliments and contrasts with the surrounding instrumentation. Speaking of instrumentation and the general performances, as with the themes that intertwine throughout the lyrics, there's a definite feeling of unity amongst the performances that allows the music to take on a particularly organic feeling, this goes a long way in helping listeners really get wrapped up in the songs melodic and textural details and creates an immersive listening experience that is wonderfully involving.

Target Audience Appeal:

Lovers of traditional Celtic Folk will find this to be a worthy cover of the Wyndreth Berginsdottir classic.

About The Reviewer:

Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and become proficient in home recording.

And Then I Saw Your Face

It all begins with an idea. This song has a very special meaning to me. A friend of mine wrote it and when I heard it, I knew it was the perfect gift for my soon to be husband for our first dance together. Steve always thought this would be the perfect Wedding song because the story in the song is many people’s story. We hope you agree.

SONG REVIEW:

Overall Impression: Opening with a somber orchestral introduction, And Then I Saw Your Face immediately lays the groundwork from which a gorgeous love story blooms and grows. Fans of Lori Cole's singing are likely drawn to her strong presence and powerful tone. With this song, Cole takes a more subdued approach and backs off of earth-shattering vocal lines to place more focus on the lyrics. A tale of discovery, change, and love, the lyrics in "And Then I Saw Your Face" spotlight the effect one person can have on another. Just as life becomes painfully monotonous, that special someone can appear and turn everything around. With the release of "And Then I Saw Your Face", Lori Cole / Art Hughes show another side to their artistry that appeals to the listener's innermost desires and holds them captive the entire time. Strongest Point(s): The lyrics stand out the most in And Then I Saw Your Face. They describe a very particular mood that is on the precipice of love. It takes a more mature approach to the giddiness we feel before entering a new relationship. Lori Cole effectively dials back her performance to let the lyrics take center stage and for the listener to reflect on their meaning. Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Pop, Show tunes, and Cabaret will enjoy And Then I Saw Your Face by Lori Cole / Art Hughes. Artist target suggestions: Barbra Streisand, Billie Holiday, Phil Collins, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Lady Gaga, Cher, Judy Garland, Elvis Presley, Diana Ross, Dolly Parton, Ella Fitzgerald, Nat King Cole About The Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist. Getting his start in high school rock bands, he has since toured as a classical chamber musician, onboard luxury cruises, and with the Broadway musicals Finding Neverland and Escape To Margaritaville. His recorded work spans from classical works and pop tunes, to mind-bending experimental music. His arrangements of orchestral music are published through Clear Note Publications. Classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the University of Denver.

Cry on My Shoulder

All of us at Manifest would like to thank Michael Ruff and Ruff Mix Music for allowing us to Record and Release this video of his beautiful song. We hope you like our rendition.

Lori Cole delivers a powerfully moving rendition of the ballad “Cry on My Shoulder”, originally written by Michael Ruff for the legendary blues artist Bonnie Raitt and included on her blockbuster 1989 album Nick of Time. Cole’s version masterfully captures the emotional weight of the original; likewise, collaborator Bobby Schiff orchestrates a captivating arrangement that stays true to the bluesy pop sound that Raitt’s producer Don Was created for her record, employing a full arsenal of strings, winds, slide guitar and piano to support the vocals. Fans of the original will surely be dazzled by Lori Cole, Art Hughes and Bobby Schiff’ faithfully reverent interpretation here, and those unfamiliar with “Cry on My Shoulder” will be drawn in by Cole’s stirring vocal performance as well as Hughes’ exquisite production.

Strongest Point(s): Excellent production, outstanding mix. Great tonal balance. Wonderful choice of a cover song; this one definitely stands the test of time, sounding as good today as it did in 1989. Fantastic arrangement, nice decision to take it down a half-step to better fit Lori’s range, allowing her to go up top on occasion and really give the melody a kick. Nailed the percussion and drums, subtle yet driving. Really nice diversity in the instrumentation, great palette of tonal colors and voices to work with here. Beautiful sax solo. Stellar vocal performance by Lori, and the male backing vocals add a nice element. I was always a fan of what Don Was did with this song, and you’ve definitely created something here that’s in the same vein. Overall, an amazing version of an often-overlooked modern classic. Great work all around!

Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Pop/Rock, Contemporary Pop/Rock, Blues Rock, Singer/Songwriter

Artist target suggestions: Bonnie Raitt, Linda Ronstadt, Emmylou Harris, Susan Tedeschi, Sheryl Crow, Mary Chaplin Carpenter, Joan Osborne, KT Tunstall, Norah Jones, Melissa Etheridge

Reviewer: Steven Azami is a multi-instrumentalist with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. Both as a touring/session player and as a producer, his career has spanned nearly every genre, from bluegrass to jazz, from rock to reggae. In addition, his work as a music educator has allowed him to cultivate and foster talent among the next generation of musical explorers

Happy 75th Birthday Linda Ronstadt, Thank you for all of your wonderful music.

“Silver Blue” is an homage on behalf of your Birthday

Thank you, Lori Cole

Song Review

Silver Blue

Overall Impression: Lori Cole, Bobby Schiff and Art Hughes have released their version of the Country tune Silver Blue. Made famous by Linda Ronstadt and penned by John Souther, Silver Blue is a gorgeous, almost melancholic, ballad that goes straight into the listener's heart. While a stylistic departure from her recent output of Jazz standards, Lori Cole proves herself up to the task for Country. Cole's version maintains all of the emotion and power of the original, but with a new orchestration and slightly quicker tempo. With this recording, the orchestration brings a welcomed brightness that lifts the tune up and avoids some of the solemnity of the original. As expected, Lori Cole sings with a gorgeous, full sound and brings a smoothness to the vocal line that is quickly becoming commonplace in her work. The backup vocals and harmonization’s are new to Lori Cole's music, and they add an incredible sound. Overall, Lori Cole and Art Hughs have made a fantastic new version of Silver Blue that gently grabs the listener's heart and will surely keep them sticking around for more.

Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Country ballads are sure to love Silver Blue covered by Lori Cole and Art Hughs.

Artist target suggestions: Linda Ronstadt, Dolly Parton, Reb McEntire, Barbra Streisand, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, James Dean, Rod Stewart, Taylor Swift, Harry Connick Jr., Michael Bublé, George Gershwin

Prisoner in Disguise

Dynamic songwriting duo Lori Cole, Bobby Schiff and Art Hughes return with yet another tantalizing release that offers listeners all the quintessential ingredients you would come to expect in a song by this creative pair, including fantastic performances, great writing, and a phenomenal sense of melody. "Prisoner in Disguise" is another fantastic example of what happens when assured performances meet inspired writing and I look forward to hearing what these talented artists cook up next.
The distinctly varied and tonally diverse qualities that the well-chosen instrumentation brings to the table really allow "Prisoner in Disguise" to explore its creative ideas. The highly emotional orchestral-based opening is wonderfully contrasted with the more contemporary based style that the acoustic guitar and piano evoke, providing a tonally rich and exciting bed of music for the vocalists to explore within. Speaking of the vocal performances, as with any Lori Cole tune, the vocals are wonderfully realized and thoroughly riveting, there's a sense of deep maturity and experience woven into the vocal performances that really help to give them both weight and a feeling of lyrical command.

SHIPWRECK

“Sweeping in with a magical air, “Shipwreck” by Lori Cole and Bobby Schiff casts an imaginative mood as chimes and pianos glisten in the distance. The gentle groove and warm orchestration establish a sound most fitting on a concert stage or soundtrack. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a ship sailing out of turmoil and darkness into a bright horizon of hope. Lori inspires confidence in those looking to better their own future. Lori Cole Sings with a beautiful command of her instrument. She has a gorgeous tone and fine vibrato that soars across the horizon like a shooting star. As the song progresses, listeners will surely find their inspired minds racing or still with awe.”

Review By: Zachary Larson a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist, classically trained, he holds a Master of Music degree from the university of Denver.

I Guess I’ll Hang My Tears Out to DRY

“ I Guess I’ll Hang My Tears Out To Dry” Overall Impression: " I Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out To Dry", the dynamic duo of Lori Cole and Art Hughes, has heightened their craft by collaborating together two skilled musicians with various experience and skills, Hughes is a skilled pianist and Cole, a singer and performer since the age of the 19, she has experimented and explores various genres rock to R&B. This latest track is a fusion of classical, jazz and blues. This song will appeal to music lovers who appreciate classic jazz and blues, songs of yesteryear, and easy listening and soul music. This song has great composition and arrangement and the tone and overall balance and harmony in the song are on point. The highlights of this song lie in its melody and instrumental performance. The song creates a peaceful, relaxing, ethereal, and dreamy musical landscape. From the beautiful strings and brass to the sounds of the flutes and light drums, the variations, fluctuations, and accents throughout create a nice rhythm and flow. The song has elements of classical orchestration while also incorporating elements of blues and jazz, especially vocally. Cole's tone is strong, polished and she has great vocal range and control of her voice, while also having a nice vibrato”.

Review By: Kristina Mondo a freelance writer specializing in music journalism

It Don’t Matter to Me

“ It Don’t Matter To Me”- “Overall Impression: The duo of Lori Cole and Art Hughes is a magnificent combination of sophisticated vocal prowess, and consummate instrumental musical performance, their latest single is a cover of one of Bread's classic songs " It Don't Matter to Me". The song is a poignant and touching pop ballad, that tells a story of love, happiness, letting go and peace, and that no matter, how much you love someone you have to let them go, and Cole's emotional vocal performance and Hughes instrumentation portray that feeling perfectly. This a song for fans of soft pop, ballads, '70's music and fans of bands and artists like Bread, Carole King, The Carpenters, and Barbara Streisand. Strongest Point(s): Vocally, Lori Cole's voice is polished, mature and is reminiscent of some of the great singers like Carole King, Karen Carpenter and Toni Tennille. Cole has a rich melodic tone to her voice which displays the range and depth to her voice and has that contralto sound. Although Cole's vocals are primarily deeper and richer in nature, she can also hit the high notes as well. The harmonies at 2:17 make the song all that much vibrant and richer and give the song a great sense of emotion and completeness.”

REVIEW BY: Kristina Mondo a freelance writer specializing in music journalism

Can’t Find My Way Home

Lori Cole / Art Hughes - Can’t Find My Way Home “Overall Impression: Lori Cole / Art Hughes have released their cover of Can't Find My Way Home. Originally by Blind Faith, this version of Can’t Find My Way Home stays true to the original but with the addition of violin and flute to support the vocals. Slightly reworked, the guitar features a warm and robust tone more akin to today's standards. It neither detracts from the Clapton original, nor adds too much. Lori Cole's voice floats effortlessly above the music. She sings clearly with passion and a fine vibrato. Overall, this cover of Can't Find Me Home by Lori Cole / Art Hughes is a cool tribute to the original with plenty to offer of its own. Strongest Point(s): The reworked instrumental parts are quite refined and well mixed. They stand out for their warmth and nice balance. Target Audience Appeal: Fans of Classic Rock will enjoy this cover of Can't Find My Way Home by Lori Cole / Art Hughes.”

The Reviewer: Zachary Larson is a professional touring guitarist and multi-instrumentalist.

While My Guitar Gently Weeps

Lori Cole / Art Hughes - While My Guitar Gently Weeps “Overall Impression: What a fantastic interpretation of a Bonafide classic! Lori Cole and Art Hughes have done a marvelous job of striking just the right balance between honoring the original and retaining its sense of character whilst simultaneously managing to inject their own unique musical personality and identity into the mix, resulting in a cover that pays both a loving tribute to the George Harrison penned tune whilst taking it into new and intriguing territory. Strongest Point(s): It's one thing to be able to cover a classic song and do it justice, yet to be able to put a unique and interesting spin on it is something else entirely, and it is most certainly the latter that is the hardest to successfully pull off. Listening through to this particular cover, I'll be honest and say that this definitely manages to accomplish both aforementioned points with resounding success. Wonderfully arranged and boasting rich and varied instrumentation, Lori and Art have done a superb job in crafting a highly textured and melodically sophisticated version of "While My Guitar Gently Weeps" that ebbs and flows with a great degree of both elegance and grace. The vocal performance is nothing short of outstanding, Lori has a commanding yet delicate vocal presence that is extremely nuanced in terms of dynamics and tone. The vocals fit the arrangement very well and contrast beautifully with the sweeping velvety nature of the strings, and the subtle use of backing vocals in just the right places is brilliant. Performed exceptionally well, creatively arranged, and filled with great spirit, well done! Target Audience Appeal: Music lovers who like their pop injected with a high degree of sophistication will certainly appreciate what this solid cover has to offer. Artist target suggestions: The Beatles, George Harrison, John Lennon, Simon & Garfunkel, Cat Stevens, Stephen Bishop, Blind Faith, Ten Years After, Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Knicks, Eagles.”

About The Reviewer: Andre Avanessian is a freelance session musician, composer, and sound engineer based in the U.K. Having studied music production and composition at a degree level, he has taken his passion for all things audio-related to a level that has allowed him to become both a competent musician and performer. Being a self-confessed "Guitar Nerd" Andre has been continually studying the guitar, as well as teaching it, helping students both learn the instrument, develop their songwriting, and how to become proficient in home recording