Makar

Artist Information

Biography

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Gina Sigillito
ginamac29@aol.com
(917) 754-1626
www.makarmusic.com

ONE OF NEW YORK’S MOST INNOVATIVE INDIE DUOS
RETURNS WITH THEIR OWN BRAND OF “GENIUS” *

Renowned NYC Band Makar Announces the Release
of Their New CD, Funeral Genius

“Makar does what so many other bands try to do, but fail. … their album Funeral Genius immediately breaks through to best-of, must-have status.”—Rust Magazine

(NEW YORK, NY)—Since 2002, Makar (pronounced Mah-Kar) has been mesmerizing New York audiences at such renowned clubs as Luna Lounge, CBGBs gallery, Knitting Factory, and Pianos. Their debut album, 99 Cent Dreams, garnered rave reviews from independentsonly.com*, who called Makar, “a musical genius worth telling people about” and the Windy City Times, who hailed them as “a breath of fresh air.” Their innovative, edgy release captured the attention of media across the country, including MTV 2, who featured the video for their irreverent tune, “I Hate My Job.” The effort landed them a record deal with Sizzleteen Records in 2005, and it seemed there was no stopping the brilliance of this part punk, part pop, and part poetic musical team.

Now, their second CD, Funeral Genius, has taken the press by storm. Called “essential” by Rust Magazine, Makar’s latest release has earned them the title of Band of the Month for January 2012 on Ear to the Ground radio and a spot on The Deli Magazine’s Top 300 Best NYC Indie Bands. They have also garnered airplay across the United States and the UK, on such stations as Hub Radio, Radio Crystal Blue, and Insomnia Radio’s “Daily Dose.”

Named after the 15th century Scottish term for “poet,” this acoustic guitar and piano driven Indie-rock band more than lives up to its name. With her ethereal beauty and angelic voice, Andrea DeAngelis has a magnetic presence that makes her a joy to see and hear. With his deep, haunting vocals, Mark Purnell calls to mind a young John Cale. Featuring Mark Nilges on bass and the mighty, legendary NYC drummer Dawn McGrath, this latest effort shows the true depth of their range as they draw on their influences from Bjork to Bowie to Blondie. As Chris Dahlberg of Cosmo Gaming so astutely commented, "Makar is what happens when you cross the current Indie revolution with a tinge of folk rock.”

From the title track, “Funeral Genius,” an upbeat, thoroughly addictive homage to 60s pop to the darker, psychedelic groove of “Bottle of Beauty,” the duo shows the full depth of both their playful and more introspective sides. The theme of Funeral Genius is, appropriately enough, about living in the present and not being overwhelmed by the self-doubt that can kill one’s spirit. As Makar muses, “A Funeral Genius is someone who is a genius at being negative, a Debbie Downer, an uber-pessimist, who obsessively looks at the negative side of things, is morbid thinking of death all the time thereby forgetting to live.”

Recorded at the Seaside Lounge Recording Studios in Park Slope, Brooklyn, Funeral Genius was three years in the making and is their most innovative, thoughtful, and exciting release yet; it was well worth the wait. As Mark recalls, "We recorded the first 11 songs on the album in one day at Seaside out in Brooklyn getting the drums and bass down. “Devil in a Dream” was recorded in one day out at Andrea's parents’ house in Mendham, NJ on a handheld tape recorder with the lights turned low and the soul of Robert Johnson and his hell hounds on our trail."
Taking the best of Indie, Pop, and Folk and making them their own, Makar once again proves their reputation as one of the most unique acts on the New York scene.

About the Artist:

Makar is fronted by published author and musician, Andrea DeAngelis, a singer/songwriter/guitarist from New Jersey and Mark Purnell, a singer/songwriter/pianist from New York. Funeral Genius is their second CD.

Title: Funeral Genius
Artist: Makar
Release Date: November 2011
Price: $9.99
Label: Makar
Soundscan: 884501618861
To Order: CDBaby.com and iTunes

MAKAR Discography

Funeral Genius - Makar's followup album to their international smash, 99 Cent Dreams, was released November 9, 2011 and is available for purchase on CDbaby.com at and Itunes!!! http://cdbaby.com/cd/makar3

99 Cent Dreams - Makar's 18-song debut album released 6/20/2005 available for purchase on CDbaby.com at http://www.cdbaby.com/makar2 and Itunes!!!

Buy both classics today!!!

MUSICAL INFLUENCES

BEATLES, SYD BARRETT, BELLE AND SEBASTIAN, BJORK, BLONDIE, BOWIE, THE CARPENTERS, THE CARS, THE CLASH, THE CURE, DEPECHE MODE, NICK DRAKE, DYLAN, DAVID GRAY, U2, PORTISHEAD, RADIOHEAD, ROBERT JOHNSON, THE ROLLING STONES, T-REX, THE TROGGS, YARDBIRDS, VIOLENT FEMMES AND SO MANY MORE UNTOUCHABLE OTHERS

CAREER HIGHLIGHTS

Makar voted one of the Best NYC Indie Bands by The Deli Magazine along with such artists as Lana Del Rey, Santigold, MGMT, Rufus Wainwright and Julian Casablancas! March 2012

Worth It was played on Eclectic Dyspepsia on August 6, 2012 by the cool Pirate Vereker and DJ Lo_Key to beat your start of the work week blues.

I Wanna Know What I Don’t Know was played on Insomnia Radio: New York #16 – Hello Ladies, August 1, 2012 hosted by the lovely Sarah Morrison.

I Wanna Know What I Don't Know played on WRSU-FM / Passing The Torch-The Overnite Free-For-All on Saturday, July 28, 2012 with Geoff Pape!

Sunday, July 29, 2012 from 5pm to 7pm (EST) [10pm to midnight UK time] to The Castle Rock Show on Radio Sherborne played MAKAR tunes!

Makar was played by on All Over The Place Internet Radio (AOTP) hosted by Rob Galgano on July 25, 2012 along with such amazing artists as Keane, Interpol, and Silversun Pickups!

DJ Dan Herman played our song "America Where Are You" on his 7/22/2012 show!

Our song Funeral Genius was played on OtticFm, a German/european alternative radio show! 7/2012

MAKAR was interviewed July 10, 2012 on Jo and Cheech's Radio Hour on WRFR in Main.

Makar's song Belong Here was played on Rich Reese's groovy show - Pop! The Beat Bubble Burst on KDHX - Thursday, July 5, 2012 episode 204!

Funeral Genius was played on Sunday, July 1, 2012 on the show Jason's Mixtape on WRLR 98.3 FM!

"I Wanna Know What I Don’t Know" was played on the Suffolk 'n' Cool podcast, show # 329. 7/2012

Makar's song Funeral Genius was played on Rich Reese's groovy show - Pop! The Beat Bubble Burst on KDHX - Thursday June 28, 2012 - episode 203!

Makar played on the June 27, 2012 broadcast of "Air Time for Indies".

I Wanna Know What I Don't Know played on Skope thru 7/14/2012.

Makar's song "I Can't Tell You To Stay" got some cool radio play on DJ Kat's New Classics show in Calgary! Thanks DJ Kat! 6/2012

Makar tunes and some of the hottest indie music on the planet in rotation at Gemricoradio starting 6/8/2012.

NBT Music Radio playing Makar tunes 24/7 starting 6/2012 with a showcase of Funeral Genius.

Funeral Genius played during BC's Unforgettable Folk Music Sunday show (5/20/12) on Sizzle Radio (247 Music Zone.Com).

I Wanna Know What I Don’t Know was played on CFBX the X 92.5 FM on the show Alternative Eye with Dylan Olson on May 12, 2012!

MAKAR was played again on Radio Crystal Blue on 3/18/12.

Makar’s tunes were played on VIC radio by DJ Wayman next to Coldplay. 5/2012

UC Radio played Makar's title track, Funeral Genius, in February 2012!

MAKAR's song I Wanna Know What I Don't Know was included in Ear to The Ground's Record Day Compilation 2012!

Makar's song "Funeral Genius" played on Hub Radio March 2012!

I Wanna Know What I Don't Know played on the Radio Crystal Blue show by Dan Herman on his 3/14/2012 show.

MAKAR GIVEN A FEATURED PREMIER ON AIIRADIO IN THE UK. DJ Yorkie from the UK played us on his great show today on www.Aiiradio.net. He played four of our tracks off Funeral Genius - Funeral Genius, I Can't Tell You to Stay, Bottle of Beauty, America Where Are You? February 2012

Three Times A Midnight was played on the Ear to the Ground's Morning Shuffle. February 2012

Show Me That Look in Your Eyes was played on Radio Crystal Blue on February 5, 2012!

Makar's song Funeral Genius was featured on Insomnia Radio's Daily Dose Channel. February 2012.

Makar song Show Me That Look In Your Eyes played on Radio Crystal Blue January 2012 by Dan Herman

Makar was band of the week then band of the month on groovy music site Ear to the Ground January 2012

Makar songs played on Radio Crystal Blue May 2011 by Dan Herman

Makar rocked An Beal Bocht March 27, 2010 and helped raise money for local public schools

Makar's song Another Day has advanced to the Qualifier round of the ABC Radio's syndicated show Fame Games where it will be heard by "a couple million listeners around the world!" August 2008

The Country Song was played on the DeysCast/Country Music Cast July 2008

I Hate My Job music video won honorable mention on Mendham TV25’s Video Contest

KDTN Radio One played I Hate My Job May 2008

Airplay for Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams, on the following podcasts & radio station in 2008 – Skeptiko, Radio Crystal Blue, CRC Folk & Country Rock, KRFC, KRAC, and TapRoot Radio

Airplay on the following podcasts & radio stations over the summer and fall of 2007 – Chill Out Radio, Farces Mo Radio, Rock Collections, Bloody Rose Podcast, Outsight Radio Hour, and WNTI 91.9 FM

I Hate My Job was number 8 in the Top 100 of 2007 on DFSX Radio

August 2007 – The live video of What Can I Tell You & I Can't Tell You to Stay aired on Country Soul TV

Andrea’s poems have been played on the following spoken word podcasts – The Write Stuff, Homegrown, Eadon’s Place, Sundown Lounge, Cloudy Day Art, Outlaw Punk Cowboy Show, Coffee House to Go and Insomnia Café

In May 2007, Makar tunes were played on "Drinks with Larry and Lauren" and featured during the Grand Opening Online Party for Indie Output in May 2007

Honey-Colored Time kicked off The Country Music Cast, April 2007

Four MAKAR songs featured on Edmonton podcast episode #16, 1/2007

I Hate My Job and Honey Colored Time played on Longtown Sound podcasts 12/15/2006

Another Day was played on Longtown Sound podcasts 12/13/2006

Sizzleteen Records re-released MAKAR's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams, 12/12/2006 after signing Makar to their label

What Can I Tell You played on The Phill(er)'s Podcast ep #70, 12/2006

The Outlaw Punk Podcast has played "The Country Song" 12/2006

Honey-Colored Time featured on Well-Rounded Radio Mix #2, 12/2006

Recently, the Gomem show played "The Country Song" and "What Can I Tell You" 11/2006

The Country Song was played on the RightishBrain Podcast 11/2006

The Outlaw Punk Podcast has played "Honey-Colored Time" 11/2006

I Hate My Job played on Atapuerca Factory podcast 10/2006

I Hate My Job is featured on Great American Music Hour podcast 10/2006

Honey Colored Time played on Psichonicos Daily Podcast 10/2006

MAKAR spotlighted on Musical Alchemy. The host Jim Davies interviewed us in our studio and played several tracks off of 99 Cent Dreams. 10/2006

Lord Litter declares, "I really like your sound!!! .. bit like *Peter Paul and Mary meets Jonathan Richman after the Punk period - cool!!*" 10/2006

The Ginger Bohemian Podcast played Another Day 10/2006.

Top Ten Music Countdown podcast played I Hate My Job (No. 1) and Another Day (No. 8) 9/2006.

Makar's first music video released on youtube for the song I Hate My Job. 10/2006

MAKAR appeared on Rich Kaminsky's cable show "Off-Beat TV" on Channel 77 in Bridgeport Connecticut Fall 2006!

Saturday 9/9/2006 Rock & Roll Outreach podcast played Makar's tune What Can I Tell You.

The Country Song was played on My Cup of Tea podcast based in Nagoya, Japan 9/4/2006.

Another Day was played on Bitjobs for the Masses podcast show #150 - Dangerous Flashbacks 8/29/2006.

Soonest Mended and 99 Cent Dreams were played on episode #8 of The Gomem Show podcast 8/24/06!

Another Day was played on Missing Something podcast 8/23/06!

I Hate My Job was played on New York Insomnia Radio podcast episode #4 8/17/2006!

Radio Marmalade plays Makar’s I Hate My Job on radiomarmalade.com.

Dan Herman, host of Radio Crystal Blue spun some tracks from 99 Cent Dreams on May 28, 2006 from 7PM till 1AM or so EDT.

RadioNowhere aired The Country Song May 22, 2006 on their Live Request Show with Christopher Laird 8pm (GMT).

Makar played on Pensacola Live 365 (Internet Radio from the Gulf Coast) May 7, 2006.

Makar ringtones available at myindietones.com.

Excellent review by independentsonly.com 4/5/06.

Makar's song "Alligator Agents" is on Mansion on the Hill 's top 25 tracks of March 2006.

Makar's song "Lost Voices" is on LIVE PEACE AND EARTH SAFE WEBSITE March 2006.

Six songs by MAKAR to debut on NEWGRASS, PROG & MORE podcast March 2006.

"Honey Colored Time" chosen to be played on FTM Podcast Network Radio Show 3/2/06.

"Lost Voices" chosen to be played on Songwriters Network Radio Show 3/2/06.

"Damion Day" chosen to be played on YourOnLive.com Radio Show 2/23/06.

"Another Day" chosen to be played on Songwriters Network Radio Show 2/21/06.

"Another Day" chosen to be played on FTM Podcast Network Radio Show 2/15/06.

"Another Day" chosen to be played on 104.7FM iRadio LA Radio Show 2/15/06.

"Another Day" chosen to be played on Indie Limelight Radio Show 2/10/06.

Makar signed to indie label Sizzleteen Records 2/06.

Makar has been chosen as one of the nominees for the 2006 Radio Crystal Blue Airplay Vote.

“Soonest Mended” was played on Yellow Beat (a Japanese bilingual indie music radio program) on 10/21/05.

“I Hate My Job” was played on Cork Campus Radio in Cork, Ireland on 10/4/05.

Makar, chosen out of 180 bands to be on Radio Crystal Blue's Future Stars Annual Series, will get 2 songs aired Sunday 10/1 from 7pm to 1am on Live365!!! So tune in and listen.

"Lost Voices" chosen to be played on Indie Limelight Radio Show 9/16/05.

"What Can I Tell You" chosen to be played on Celtica Radio Ltd. Radio Show 9/16/05.

THIS IS ROCK 'N' ROLL RADIO, hosted by Dan Bonn and Carl Cafarelli on 9/14/05 played "I Hate My Job."

THIS IS ROCK 'N' ROLL RADIO, hosted by Dan Bonn and Carl Cafarelli on 8/14/05 played "What Can I Tell You." THIS IS ROCK 'N' ROLL RADIO airs Sunday nights from 9 to midnight Eastern (with reruns during the day on Wednesday) on WXXE-FM in Syracuse, NY,
and on the web at www.wxxe.org.

Makar's song "What Can I Tell You" is being played on Indie Artist Radio and getting lots of votes!!! Request it to be played at http://www.indieartistradio.com/playlistM.html

DJ Dan Herman from Radio Crystal Blue played "What Can I Tell You" & "Soonest Mended" from Makar's debut 18-song album, 99 Cent Dreams, on his 8/14/05 show!!! Give it a listen!

Makar chosen to be reviewd by Music Magazine 8/12/05.

"Damion Day" chosen to be played on Buzz Music Radio Show 8/12/05.

Makar's song "What Can I Tell You" was played on Indie Limelight Radio Show at http://www.indielimelightshow.com 8/8/05

Makar's song "Show Me the Real World" was played on Radio Crystal blue's 7/31/05 radio show.

MAKAR’s song “Damion Day” has been selected to be played on Streetblast Radio during their "Independent/College Music/Unsigned Show" in July 2005

MAKAR’s song “What Can I Tell You” has been selected for the Freshly Squeezed Music Vol. 1 compilation CD for release in August 2005. This is a Canadian label with the goal of promoting the BEST independent music to music lovers across the globe.

MAKAR’s debut album 99 Cent Dreams was selected for radio play on Yellowbeat (a Japanese radio station) in July 2005.

MAKAR was runner up this past April 2005 in Radio Crystal Blue's Airplay 2005 indie radio contest out of 25 bands chosen to compete from the pool of bands played on Radio Crystal blue's station by DJ Dan Herman!

MAKAR’s debut album 99 Cent Dreams rough mixes were played on Mansion on the Hill, Radio Freakout, Radio Indie Rock, SpaceLab Radio, KALX, WBER, Aiiradio in England among others!

MAKAR rocked Luna Lounge with South African chanteuse Karma on October 17, 2004!

MAKAR was played on Dan Herman's Future Star segment on his Radio Crystal Blue show at www.RadioCrystalBlue.com on October 3rd, 2004!

MAKAR rocked Meanyfest 2004 at CBGBs lounge September 18th!

Instrumentation

Mark Purnell - Vocals, Piano, dulcimer, Mixing, Engineer, composer, arranger, Artwork
Andrea DeAngelis - Vocals, Guitar, composer, arranger, Artwork
Mark Nilges - Bass
Dawn McGrath - Drums

Discography

Funeral Genius - Makar's followup album to their international smash, 99 Cent Dreams. Released November 2011 available for purchase on CDbaby.com at and Itunes!!! http://cdbaby.com/cd/makar3

99 Cent Dreams - Makar's 18-song debut album released 6/20/2005 available for purchase on CDbaby.com at http://www.cdbaby.com/makar2 and Itunes!!!

Buy both classics today!!!

Official Website

http://www.makarmusic.com

Links

• MySpace
• Facebook
• Last.fm
• Twitter

Audio

• Funeral Genius
  Listen   Download
• I Wanna Know What I Don't Know
  Listen   Download
• I Can't Tell You to Stay
  Listen   Download
• Worth It
  Listen   Download
• Bottle of Beauty
  Listen   Download
• I Hate My Job
  Listen   Download
• The Country Song
  Listen   Download
• What Can I Tell You
  Listen   Download
• Another Day
  Listen   Download
• Alligator Agents
  Listen   Download

Lyrics

• Funeral Genius
• I Wanna Know What I Don't Know
• I Can't Tell You To Stay
• Worth It
• Bottle of Beauty
• I Hate My Job
• The Country Song
• What Can I Tell You
• Another Day
• Alligator Agents

Video

Funeral Genius.wmv

7-I Wanna Know What I Dont Know.wmv

Photo Gallery

Press

• Funeral Genius review by Popa's Tunes [+ Show ]
  

  This is the second piece I'm writing for Popa Tunes, which has been a pleasure, as well as an excell...This is the second piece I'm writing for Popa Tunes, which has been a pleasure, as well as an excellent opportunity to expose myself to some new music. He has a natural ear for the sounds worth paying attention to, so I never turn down the chance to work with him.
  
  In November 2011, NYC Indie Pop band MAKAR came out with their second major release "Funeral Genius," and the unique qualities of this album make it an extremely significant addition to my collection. Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell are the core of MAKAR, both demonstrate their extraordinary affinity for singing and songwriting throughout the album, with Andrea on guitar and Mark on piano. "Funeral Genius" also features bassist Mark Nilges and drummer Dawn McGrath, and the end result is something that deserves attention.
  
  I've only had my hands on the album for about a week or so, but I have been listening to it on repeat nonstop. One of the greatest strengths of this twelve-track artistic accomplishment is the technically flawless layering of multiple styles; the instrumentals alone provide a good look at the finely-honed talent of every member. Purnell and DeAngelis alternating on vocals further enhance the multi-faceted nature of their work, and no amount of genre labels or comparisons would really do MAKAR justice. Each song carries its own particular sound, but it all comes together as a complete and well-rounded album. I keep finding myself a little more appreciative of each track every time I listen to it.
  
  I was already enjoying myself immensely just listening to "Funeral Genius," but after getting my hands on the lyrics I was blown away. The words to every song read like poetry, and despite the outstanding musical performance, I would consider this one of the most impressive aspects. The tone throughout each song comes across as folk with a dark taste to it, but the music is by no stretch of the imagination depressing. Mark and Andrea walk a very fine line with the words, but they do it with a level of style that makes the overall emotional impact something that makes you think and feel in a different kind of way. These lyrics have some real substance to them, and it raises my already massive appreciation for MAKAR's music.
  
  Personal Favorite Tracks:
  
  5. I Can't Tell You To Stay: One of the best bass lines on the entire album starts off this track, both Mark and Andrea sing, fantastic song. This is the one that really caught my attention.
  
  11. Three Times A Midnight: A slow paced, well put-together song that has an immaculate chorus. Every member really shines in this song, and the lyrics are superb.
  
  12. Devil In A Dream: Perfect bluesy folk song, low tech recording with an acoustic guitar in a basement somewhere in Mendham, NJ. What more do you need?
  
  "Funeral Genius" is an album worth its value several times over, and any releases coming from these standout NYC artists in the near future will become an instant addition to my collection. Even if you aren't an indie pop fan, there's a good chance the hauntingly majestic sounds of MAKAR will change your opinion on the genre. In the meantime, I will be eagerly anticipating anything they come up with.
  
  Review of Makar's album, Funeral Genius
  Popa’s Tunes
  Guest Posted by Matthew Warburton cross posted at Screaming at the Wall
  http://popatunes.blogspot.com/2012/04/makars-funeral-genius-lives-up-to-its.html
  April 1, 2012

• Funeral Genius review by Rust Magazine [+ Show ]
  

  Makar does what so many other bands try to do, but fail. They combine indie, pop and rock with catch...Makar does what so many other bands try to do, but fail. They combine indie, pop and rock with catchy lyrics, and they do it very, very well. They make well written songs with a distinctive sound, mixing irreverence with seriousness, layering complex arrangements under likeable melodies. In a lot of ways they're similar to Radiophonic - recently reviewed by RUST - in that there's a real excellence and uniqueness in every small element of what they do, and their album "Funeral Genius" immediately breaks through to best-of, must-have status.
  
  Coming from the left of center, with distinctive presences from both Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell "Funeral Genius" takes elements of the 60's and everything since and weaves together a complete full-length album that is strong from start to finish. For "Funeral Genius" this husband and wife pair are supported by bassist Mark Nilges and the mighty, legendary NYC drummer Dawn McGrath, and the result is an album that makes you stop whatever else you're doing and LISTEN to it. It grabs, holds and rewards your attention and you realize that this is one of those all-time-legendary releases that will define this musical moment in your memory.
  
  With ten years of time together, during which Makar impressed audiences at top venues around the New York area, this album definitely sounds like a unified presentation from an experienced team. The press has been kind to them, and a feature on MTV got them a deal with Sizzleteen Records. "Funeral Genius" is the result of that deal, and it has actually been the result of a lot of long-term work. Recorded at the Seaside Lounge Recording Studios in Park Slope, Brooklyn, "Funeral Genius" was three years in the making. As Mark recalls, "We recorded the first 11 songs on the album in one day at Seaside out in Brooklyn getting the drums and bass down and then “Devil in a Dream” was recorded in one day out at Andrea's parent's house in Mendham, NJ on a handheld tape recorder.
  
  Mark Purnell has been compared to a young John Cale, and the band shares vibes ranging from Bjork to Bowie to Blondie with strong 60's roots. There is strong retro-esque songwriting similar in both feel and excellence to the Brian Jonestown Massacre, but this is not a "retro" band. It's a folky, punky, indie mix that presents a team of unique and talented people, and that's the real take-away here. Makar accomplishes a sound and feel that many, many other bands try to achieve and usually fail because they're not talented songwriters and performers whose music comes from experience and authentic talent. Spoiler alert: this is an album that will have you throwing away half a dozen other "wannabe" albums from your collection.
  
  So get ready to make some space on your shelf or playlist for "Funeral Genius" and pick it up right away. It's going to be one of your most-loved albums of all time. Essential.
  
  Review of Makar's album, Funeral Genius
  http://www.rustzine.com/RUST/Makar_Funeral_Genius.html
  Eric Peterson
  Rust Magazine
  March 20, 2012

• Funeral Genius review by Ear to the Ground [+ Show ]
  

  "Makar, I'm told, is a 15th Century Scottish term for poet. Makar is also this really killer duo fro..."Makar, I'm told, is a 15th Century Scottish term for poet. Makar is also this really killer duo from New York City. We already recommended them based on a couple of tracks I heard from their 2005 debut 99 Cent Dreams. Now, I've had the chance to hear their long awaited follow up Funeral Genius, and it's time to start shouting from the roof tops. Actually, I just like shouting from rooftops, but Makar is worth shouting about.
  
  Makar is husband and wife Mark Purnell and Andrea DeAngelis. They play piano and acoustic guitar driven alt-rock. It's intelligent, catchy and unique. In short it's everything, got me into this type of music in the first place. The bands list of influences reads like a playlist off my MP3 player, and includes Nick Drake - so bonus points there.
  
  If you remember from the Ear to the Ground recommends post (and I know you remember everything I write), this is the band that does my anthem of late - Hate My Job. Go check out that video."
  
  Joe Wolfe-Mazeres
  Ear to the Ground
  Friday, January 13, 2012

• 99 Cent Dreams review by Radio Crystal Blue [+ Show ]
  

  "Boy-girl piano/guitar avant-garde sing along music." "A superb, balanced palette of drums, guita..."Boy-girl piano/guitar avant-garde sing along music."
  
  "A superb, balanced palette of drums, guitar and high crooning voices. A completely satisfying album with no real start or endpoint to it, nor concept. File it next to Velvet Underground's "Loaded" for sheer pop loveliness from your curators, Mark and Andrea. Singles include "I Hate My Job" (a rousing rant against the corporates), "Damion Day" (the requisite piano-guitar rave up, a crowd favorite). It's hard not to like the strong piano sound from Mark on "All I Know". "Honey Colored Time" has the most crossover potential...a song against the man.....but under what flag? Shimmer, slowness, even salaciousiness, so much to love about this rock quartet."
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  Radio Crystal Blue
  By Dan Herman
  12/2006
  http://www.radiocrystalblue.com
  

• 99 Cent Dreams review by CosmosGaming [+ Show ]
  

  "Makar is what happens when you cross the current indie revolution with a tinge of folk rock. Their ..."Makar is what happens when you cross the current indie revolution with a tinge of folk rock. Their debut album, 99 Cent Dreams, is an absolute joy to listen to. Every song is based on a real emotion or real thing, something that a lot of bands just can't seem to write good songs about these days. This album is catchy and has a sound that definitely stands out from the rest of the bands out there. It's not going to appeal to the metal heads or rap fanatics, but everyone else out there with an open mind will find an intriguing collection of songs.
  
  Andrea and Mark are the two singers of Makar, and both have an extremely impressive vocal range. Mark's singing is typically more laid back and very smooth to listen to. It flows well with the instrumental work, and his vocals are what give the music a bit of an indie rock vibe. Andrea's singing is all over the place, but this is not a bad thing at all (it just might make things a little inaccessible to some listeners). Her voice is incredible and it especially shows on songs such as "All I Know", where she gives an extremely melodic performance that is definitely tear worthy. However, it is her screeches on songs such as the opener "I Hate My Job" that will grab a lot of listener's attentions. They are very high pitched and sometimes can be compared to some of the female punk singers out there (which is an unusual mix).
  
  The instrumental work is superb, there's no better way to put it. The opener is a fast paced surf-rock esque track that quickly transitions into a more laid back ballad style track. Although Makar has plenty of folk rock vibes, there are also songs that allude to a country style. The group likes to jump between more mellow and up-tempo segments, although I will admit that I personally like the more mellow aspects. It may seem like a crazy mix at times (especially when mixing in the opening track with some of the later ones), but everything falls into place.
  
  Makar's debut album is a wonderful trip through a wonderland of infectious tracks that the average person will be able to relate though. The two vocalist aspect (one male, one female) also gives the music a bit more depth than one would initially think. In an industry that is slowly leaning towards corporate cookie cutter rock 'n roll and stereotypical rap music, Makar isn't afraid to think outside of the box and come up with music that anyone can enjoy. 99 Cent Dreams is definitely a noteworthy album, and I can't wait to see where the group goes from here. "
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  Cosmosgaming.com
  by Chris Dahlberg
  6/20/06
  http://www.cosmosgaming.com/articles.php?id=404&articletype=review
  

• 99 Cent Dreams review by IndependentsOnly [+ Show ]
  

  "New York's Makar finds a delicate way to mix their influences into something all their own defying ..."New York's Makar finds a delicate way to mix their influences into something all their own defying comparison to anyone. Maybe it's the shared vocals of Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell that stand out inside of each song. Maybe it's the small things that really start standing out the more I listen to the disc… the piano lightly chugging like it were in a Mississippi juke joint? Is it the guitars resembling the psychedelic sixties or the post punk clang heard in the eighties? Whatever it is that I'm hearing, makes Makar a musical genius worth telling people about. So pile into the van, make it fast and throw on this disc!"
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  IndependentsOnly.com
  By Monk
  4/4/2006

• 99 Cent Dreams review by Northeast In-Tune [+ Show ]
  

  “Not going to lie, my favorite thing about Makar is the lyrics. Every song is based on an honest, co...“Not going to lie, my favorite thing about Makar is the lyrics. Every song is based on an honest, coherent poem. Topics range from hating “The Man” to loving your spouse. Makar also has that rare ability, prized by such bands as Rasputina, to write about unconventional subjects and not make annoying songs. I Hate My Job sounds like obnoxious surf music, and yet, I dig it. It makes me think of those days when you are so frustrated that you break into crazed, but ultimately hilarious complaining. “I hate my job. I hate my life. I hate my girl. I hate my wife. And I hate you!” A personal favorite from 99 Cent Dreams is The Country Song. It’s a cowboy story in which God apparently gives up. And it also features some pretty lyrics, “I’ll find my way home tonight somehow, even if my guide’s a firefly.” That is the tip of the iceberg; you’ll have to check out Makar yourself to get the full treatment.”
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  Northeast In-Tune
  by Stephanie Crosby
  2/24/06

• 99 Cent Dreams review by God is in TV Zine [+ Show ]
  

  "Makar are from New York, hate their jobs (opening track, I Hate My Job) and take their name from an..."Makar are from New York, hate their jobs (opening track, I Hate My Job) and take their name from an old Scottish word meaning poet. 99 Cent Dreams is a self-released album featuring 18 tracks and they’ve sent a disc of live videos as well...They sound like New York. Not the recent New York, the Strokes and all that, but the older New York, the one that belonged to the Velvet Underground and the arty-types in The Village...This record is full of breadline-living bohemia and wanting to be Andy Warhol. The tunes are a mix of the Velvets and US college rock like Ben Fold’s Five. Plain, simple poetry set to decent melodies based around acoustic guitars with extras like pianos and whatever comes to hand laid over the top."
  
  "I Can’t Tell You To Stay is a simple song sung beautifully by Andrea DeAngelis – a haunting tune that rises above the rest of their stuff. She sings it in falsetto, the words lost in the tune but the feeling staying put. Don’t know how you could get your hands on it, but it’d be worth hearing. " [from a live gig video at Luna Lounge found on www.sonicbids.com/makar]
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams and Live Video
  God is in the TV
  by Chris Helsby
  10/23/2005
  

• 99 Cent Dreams review by Blue Mag [+ Show ]
  

  "At first it was kinda hard to wrap my brain around Makar's debut CD, 99 Cent Dreams. The album defi..."At first it was kinda hard to wrap my brain around Makar's debut CD, 99 Cent Dreams. The album definitely harkens back to an earlier age or idea with its late 60's' Go Go guitars, community theater boy/girl vocals, and healthy dose of boogie piano. It finally hit me - Makar sounds like an early 70's rock musical, filled with furry do-gooders all oddly earnest and projecting on a stage of rainbows and karma. With a vibe that's both reverent folk revivalism and (possibly) tongue-in-cheek pastiche, 99 Cent Dreams owes as much to the "Jeepers Creepers" sketch from Mr. Show as it does to Hair. On "The Country Song", Mark Purnell's Vanagon blues vocals are periodically interrupted by sharp yelps from second vocalist Andrea DeAngelis, leading me to picture them both in technicolor dream coats on a stage mugging for a stoned, easy going audience. DeAngelis carries "What Can I Tell You" with an enjoyable blend of the Supremes and Suzi Quatro, simultaneous lush and chrome for what's probably the album's standout song. The title track, like much of the record, is really peppy and sunny, throwing in narrative tempo changes and a big blustry coda. Closer "Andrea" turns down the starshine with some minor key emotionalism after "I Don't Know God" sways its way through some mid-tempo coffee shop existentialism. While not your average folk/pop release, 99 Cent Dreams certainly displays its fair share of musical talent and theatrical bombast."
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  Blue Magazine
  by Rooney
  9/7/2005
  
  

• 99 Cent Dreams review by Windy City Times [+ Show ]
  

  "The New York music scene recently flourished with electro and ‘80s-inspired bands, the band Makar i..."The New York music scene recently flourished with electro and ‘80s-inspired bands, the band Makar is a breath of fresh air with its full-length debut 99 Cent Dreams. Timeless folk-based pop gems manifest Makar’s 99 Cent Dreams. The opening track “I Hate My Job” offers everyday man fantasies about leaving the 9 to 5 drudge to become a rockstar. The standout tune “What Can I Tell You” also appears on the compilation Freshly Squeezed Music vol. 1. Husband and wife Mark Purnell and Andrea DeAngelis not only share lead vocal duties, but also co-wrote 15 of the 18 songs jointly and arranged the album’s artwork. Purnell’s voice is surprisingly theatrical and DeAngelis, who proved her own at various poetry recitals in the Big Apple, flavorfully adds chirps, complementing the cadence. 99 Cent Dreams is available through cdbaby.com."
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  Pop Making Sense Article
  by David Byrne
  8/11/2005
  Entire article can be found at:
  http://www.windycitytimes.com/gay/lesbian/news/ARTICLE.php?AID=9162
  
  
  

• 99 Cent Dreams review by Smother [+ Show ]
  

  Makar is a New York based indie rock band who ain’t gonna take no shit no how. Whether it’s a diatri...Makar is a New York based indie rock band who ain’t gonna take no shit no how. Whether it’s a diatribe and rant about work or religion, Makar tackles the issues head on with horns ready to stab anyone in the gut dumb enough to stand in their way. But based on these comments you’d think they had a hard edge to them; couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Makar writes catchy pop-rock songs that could be mistaken for T-Rex writing folk-rock numbers. Good stuff.
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  Smother
  J-Sin
  7/24/2005

• 99 Cent Dreams review by CDBabel [+ Show ]
  

  "MAKAR's music is strangely normal. They play their instruments like they were in a punk band...but ..."MAKAR's music is strangely normal. They play their instruments like they were in a punk band...but the music they are playing is very classic sixties rock. The result is a feel somewhere in-between the Sex Pistols and Lovin' Spoonful."
  
  "Makar's Lyrics are wonderful. Simply put I find myself addicted to them. A song like "Lost Voices" doesn't come along every day, nor a musing like "The Country Song."
  
  "The vocalist duet is right out of Belle & Sebastian, except the man's voice is deeper. This makes for a nice contrast. Both voices carry the sort of inner humor that allows them to make serious lyrics fun."
  
  "The bands sound takes some getting used to and the first song will most likely scare you away, but if you listen to this CD a couple of times you will start to notice that there is some real genius behind the lyrics and the sound."
  
  Review of Makar's debut album, 99 Cent Dreams
  CDBabel
  E Jeff Einowski
  6/29/05
  
  

• 99 Cent Dreams rough mixes review by Left Off The Dial [+ Show ]
  

  New York City has done it again. Take a bow, because everything good just seems to gravitate towards...New York City has done it again. Take a bow, because everything good just seems to gravitate towards the Big Apple. Makar’s imaginatively titled, 99 Cent Dreams, is one of those things. With a band name that means poet in 15th-century Scotland, their sound is described as “poet-pop-art-rock.” The band was given birth by band members Mark Purnell and his wife Andrea DeAngelis, both of whom write the lyrics and sing. [Dan Coates] rocks the bass and Jorge Arias seduces with percussion. The four make beautifully interwoven songs together.
  
  As I listen to their songs on my beat up Discman, I feel as though I have gone through a series of flashbacks and have crash landed on the TV show, The Monkees. Zany, I know. Maybe it’s just because one of their songs is titled The Monkey? I have a strange thinking process. Yet, what makes their music so huggable? Their live CD was taken from a show at CBGB’s Gallery, and amidst the random clappings, it made me want to dance. With their crazy, switching time signatures, it’s one of those red light, green light dances, where at one point the music sways, and the next moment you realize your feet are tingling. I was especially impressed, because the songs were not professionally mixed or mastered. The tracks “Damion Day” and “I Hate My Job” are recommended for good times.
  
  Their 18-song, full length debut is due out this summer, including the songs “I Hate My Job,” “The Monkey” and “All I Know.”
  
  -Debbie Kang
  7/26/04
  http://www.leftoffthedial.com/Makar_99centRough.htm
  

Setlist

Set Time is 45 minutes to an hour and we typically get 12-15 songs in. We can do more or less depending on what your needs are. Our set list is a combination of songs from our album and new material. We have 30 original songs so we can change the set list around to suit a more laid back vibe or a more rocking vibe.

Basic Requirements

Calendar