Radio Drive
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Radio Drive

Eagan, Minnesota, United States | Established. Jan 01, 2008 | SELF

Eagan, Minnesota, United States | SELF
Established on Jan, 2008
Band Rock Alternative

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Music

Press


""Footsteps" Accepted for Grammy Consideration"

Sept 2014 - “Footsteps” was accepted by the Grammy Awards for consideration in Category 12 “Rock Performance” - Kevin Gullickson


""Never" nominated by Hollywood Music Awards best Alternative song"

Radio Drive's song "Never" from their latest CD "This is Our Time" was nominated by the Hollywood Music Awards for best Alternative song from the April 2012 submissions. Nominees will be judged and the winner of each music genre category will be chosen at the award ceremony in November in Hollywood. - Hollywood Music Awards


""Never" nominated by Hollywood Music Awards best Alternative song"

Radio Drive's song "Never" from their latest CD "This is Our Time" was nominated by the Hollywood Music Awards for best Alternative song from the April 2012 submissions. Nominees will be judged and the winner of each music genre category will be chosen at the award ceremony in November in Hollywood. - Hollywood Music Awards


""This is Our Time" has a lot to offer"

It has to be said that for the much-vaunted producer behind This is
Our Time there is a lot to be said against the production. While it no
doubt has a quality to it, somehow it does not seem to do the music
justice. There is too much clarity in each individual instrument when
some fuzziness around the edges would undoubtedly have worked
better. It would have suited the sound better.
The flaws in the production become apparent with the first track,
"Rising". The vocals are too clear and the guitar has been
heightened to a point where it has become almost tinny. Now that
is a real shame for the song is a good one. And Kevin Gullickson,
who is Radio Drive, has a talent in both the instrumental and the
songwriting departments. Indeed, the album is full of catchy
pop-rock numbers with some interesting melodies.
"Borders" has the feel to it of something which would not have
been out of place in any of the last three decades of popular
music. It is familiar and yet sufficiently different to give the
listener the opportunity to experience something afresh.
Gullickson has a voice which at times reminds you of any one of
half a dozen other, more well-known vocalists, without at any time
giving the impression that this is derivative. And it is sufficiently
different from its predecessor to contribute to an album which is
as diverse as it is well-performed. The impression is strengthened
with the decidedly more up-tempo rocker, "Money, You Don't Own
Me".
The title track is a mixture of synth pop and guitar rock with a call
and response refrain and an impressive dance beat. I can imagine
this going down a storm in the Europop clubs of Europe's summer
teen holiday spots like Ibiza. The track, probably the best on the
album, sets a standard which most of the others ("Light" excepted)
manage to live up to, if not exceed. The drumming is a prominent
feature and, while at times, it sounds like the dreaded machine,
there is clearly enough humanity behind it to give an authentic
feel.
Slowing down things, "Life Takes a New Direction" provides
Gullickson with the opportunity to display a bit of guitar virtuosity
while, at the same time, offering up a track which has probably
the most anthemic feel of any on the album. "Two Simple Words" is
likewise slower, but with a really good refrain and some simple, yet
engaging guitar work melding perfectly with the keyboards, while
the album's closer, "Hardwired", is reminiscent of Lenny Kravitz in
terms of its rocking guitar.
This is Our Time is certainly an album which has a lot to offer.
There is variety and some damn good pop music. Kevin Gullickson
has a talent which deserves a wider audience. The only thing
which lets it down is the production. Resolve that issue and there
is a future here for Radio Drive - if only their music can be got out
there! - Music Emissions


""This is Our Time" has a lot to offer"

It has to be said that for the much-vaunted producer behind This is
Our Time there is a lot to be said against the production. While it no
doubt has a quality to it, somehow it does not seem to do the music
justice. There is too much clarity in each individual instrument when
some fuzziness around the edges would undoubtedly have worked
better. It would have suited the sound better.
The flaws in the production become apparent with the first track,
"Rising". The vocals are too clear and the guitar has been
heightened to a point where it has become almost tinny. Now that
is a real shame for the song is a good one. And Kevin Gullickson,
who is Radio Drive, has a talent in both the instrumental and the
songwriting departments. Indeed, the album is full of catchy
pop-rock numbers with some interesting melodies.
"Borders" has the feel to it of something which would not have
been out of place in any of the last three decades of popular
music. It is familiar and yet sufficiently different to give the
listener the opportunity to experience something afresh.
Gullickson has a voice which at times reminds you of any one of
half a dozen other, more well-known vocalists, without at any time
giving the impression that this is derivative. And it is sufficiently
different from its predecessor to contribute to an album which is
as diverse as it is well-performed. The impression is strengthened
with the decidedly more up-tempo rocker, "Money, You Don't Own
Me".
The title track is a mixture of synth pop and guitar rock with a call
and response refrain and an impressive dance beat. I can imagine
this going down a storm in the Europop clubs of Europe's summer
teen holiday spots like Ibiza. The track, probably the best on the
album, sets a standard which most of the others ("Light" excepted)
manage to live up to, if not exceed. The drumming is a prominent
feature and, while at times, it sounds like the dreaded machine,
there is clearly enough humanity behind it to give an authentic
feel.
Slowing down things, "Life Takes a New Direction" provides
Gullickson with the opportunity to display a bit of guitar virtuosity
while, at the same time, offering up a track which has probably
the most anthemic feel of any on the album. "Two Simple Words" is
likewise slower, but with a really good refrain and some simple, yet
engaging guitar work melding perfectly with the keyboards, while
the album's closer, "Hardwired", is reminiscent of Lenny Kravitz in
terms of its rocking guitar.
This is Our Time is certainly an album which has a lot to offer.
There is variety and some damn good pop music. Kevin Gullickson
has a talent which deserves a wider audience. The only thing
which lets it down is the production. Resolve that issue and there
is a future here for Radio Drive - if only their music can be got out
there! - Music Emissions


"Radio Drive "This is Our Time" delivers"

Radio Drive is one person by the name of Kevin Gullickson who is giving you a full dose of life in all its glory. Radio Drive has put out a new album every year since 2009 and ‘This Is Our Time’ is the fourth installment. Gullickson is in good company once again with Grammy Award winner Gene Paul, son of Les Paul, mixing and mastering the 11-track recording.

Radio Drive is pushing hard to really make a difference in this world through the message behind the music. The songs incorporate elements of rock/classic rock, pop, alternative and even dance in what I’d like to refer to as a breath of fresh air. There is some real truth backed behind every track on ‘This Is Our Time’ and nice to hear for a change especially for people that have to deal with nonsense & BS every day. No nonsense, no bullshit…just good music and REAL LIFE HONESTY is what Radio Drive delivers. The record starts up with a song called “Rising” that is quite hypnotic where you’ll hear Kevin Gullickson playing around with some crazy sounds/sound effects. Next up you’ll get “Borders” that has a classic rock beat ‘n’ vibe complete with rockeriffic guitar riffs and really just one cool song. Get down to some pop, dance and rock on the title track and then never forget those “Two Simple Words”–I’M SORRY. Radio Drive finishes strong with a jamtastic, rockin’ number called “Hardwired” and honestly I would have loved to have heard a couple more songs in this style & tempo because Gullickson truly nailed it. I’d also like to add that Kevin Gullickson has a real nice tone & quality to his voice and the guitar playing & drumming was rock solid.

What really stuck out to me here on ‘This Is Our Time’ was the fact that Radio Drive wrote lyrics that were highly relevant and relatable to today’s society. Just look at this album as a soundtrack to the world around us. On track five “Light” just remember that there is always “light in a world of dark, hurt, shame and fear” or how about “Life takes a new direction and Life makes a new connection”. The song “Life is For Living” makes everyone realize that growing, forgiving, loving and giving are what makes us. This is what life and what living for life should be always be about.

Thank you Radio Drive for opening my eyes & ears as this record really hit a chord with me and I’m sure it will with others as well. Life is what you make it and Radio Drive encourages all that ‘This Is Our Time’ to stay strong & shine. Be open-minded while embracing change and one another so then that “truth shall set you free”.

By Jimmy Rae jrae@skopemag.com
- Skope Magazine


"Radio Drive "This is Our Time" delivers"

Radio Drive is one person by the name of Kevin Gullickson who is giving you a full dose of life in all its glory. Radio Drive has put out a new album every year since 2009 and ‘This Is Our Time’ is the fourth installment. Gullickson is in good company once again with Grammy Award winner Gene Paul, son of Les Paul, mixing and mastering the 11-track recording.

Radio Drive is pushing hard to really make a difference in this world through the message behind the music. The songs incorporate elements of rock/classic rock, pop, alternative and even dance in what I’d like to refer to as a breath of fresh air. There is some real truth backed behind every track on ‘This Is Our Time’ and nice to hear for a change especially for people that have to deal with nonsense & BS every day. No nonsense, no bullshit…just good music and REAL LIFE HONESTY is what Radio Drive delivers. The record starts up with a song called “Rising” that is quite hypnotic where you’ll hear Kevin Gullickson playing around with some crazy sounds/sound effects. Next up you’ll get “Borders” that has a classic rock beat ‘n’ vibe complete with rockeriffic guitar riffs and really just one cool song. Get down to some pop, dance and rock on the title track and then never forget those “Two Simple Words”–I’M SORRY. Radio Drive finishes strong with a jamtastic, rockin’ number called “Hardwired” and honestly I would have loved to have heard a couple more songs in this style & tempo because Gullickson truly nailed it. I’d also like to add that Kevin Gullickson has a real nice tone & quality to his voice and the guitar playing & drumming was rock solid.

What really stuck out to me here on ‘This Is Our Time’ was the fact that Radio Drive wrote lyrics that were highly relevant and relatable to today’s society. Just look at this album as a soundtrack to the world around us. On track five “Light” just remember that there is always “light in a world of dark, hurt, shame and fear” or how about “Life takes a new direction and Life makes a new connection”. The song “Life is For Living” makes everyone realize that growing, forgiving, loving and giving are what makes us. This is what life and what living for life should be always be about.

Thank you Radio Drive for opening my eyes & ears as this record really hit a chord with me and I’m sure it will with others as well. Life is what you make it and Radio Drive encourages all that ‘This Is Our Time’ to stay strong & shine. Be open-minded while embracing change and one another so then that “truth shall set you free”.

By Jimmy Rae jrae@skopemag.com
- Skope Magazine


"Radio Drive "This is Our Time" 5/5 Star Review"

If you are looking for an alternative pop rock band that has an upbeat sound, look no further than Radio Drive. The man behind the magic is the very talented Kevin Gullickson. Starting his musical career with a four song EP, Gullickson has been contacted by several major record companies and Grammy Award winning producers that are interested in his sound. His music is played internationally on indie and online stations. About to release his fourth album, This Is Our Time,Gullickson has only continued to grow in his technique and appeal.
“Rising” is the first song on the album. Light keyboard melodies flair up and intertwine with Gullickson’s vocals. If you are a fan of Peter Murphy or AFI, you need to hear this album. It has an almost 80’s Goth feel to it, with a bit more on the upbeat side. Percussion picks up the pace and blends with a textured chorus of male vocals “Do you think you can rise to the top? Let’s see what you’ve got?” Well, Radio Drive definitely has what it takes with this new album.
The tracks just keep getting better and better as you go. “Borders” is the second song in the lineup and begins with a strong guitar presence that blossoms out into a drum sequence. Gullickson’s vocals pierce the veil of music and take you on a journey of the imagination. “Let your imagination take you far away. Beyond the borders only you define.” The guitar riffs keep the pace with percussion and vocals, leading you deeper into the wonders and forays into the voyage of the mind. The composition here is precise and the journey of discovery Gullickson is taking you on is one that any music or book lover will fall into. There is nothing like losing yourself in a good book or piece of music that tugs at your soul. This piece does more than tug-it yanks you happily into the creative abyss and you go over the cliff with arms outstretched.
“Never” is a haunting song that seems to stick in my head long after it stops playing. Ambient sound morphs up and quickly erupts into percussion, guitar and vocals that creep into your soul. Goth fans will love this piece. It is full of specters and things that thrive in the darkness. Gullickson casts a spell as he weaves a tale of regret, love and sacraments. This has to be one of my favorite pieces on the album. I didn’t think anything could be better than “Run” from I Can See The World From Here but this song is intrinsically deep and catchy at the same time.
This Is Our Time is another masterpiece for the amazing Kevin Gullickson. Radio Drive is truly going places. From his last release I Can See The World From Herein 2011, Gullickson is continuing in his rise to the top. Every song on this album is one I could write about and listen to for hours at a time. From the haunting words and sounds of “Never” to the thumb in the eye to greed in “Money You Don’t Own Me,” Gullickson has a winner here. Fans of 80’s Goth will enjoy this album immensely and new fans will love his fresh sound. This is an artist you will want to watch.
- Muzik Reviews


"Radio Drive "This is Our Time" 5/5 Star Review"

If you are looking for an alternative pop rock band that has an upbeat sound, look no further than Radio Drive. The man behind the magic is the very talented Kevin Gullickson. Starting his musical career with a four song EP, Gullickson has been contacted by several major record companies and Grammy Award winning producers that are interested in his sound. His music is played internationally on indie and online stations. About to release his fourth album, This Is Our Time,Gullickson has only continued to grow in his technique and appeal.
“Rising” is the first song on the album. Light keyboard melodies flair up and intertwine with Gullickson’s vocals. If you are a fan of Peter Murphy or AFI, you need to hear this album. It has an almost 80’s Goth feel to it, with a bit more on the upbeat side. Percussion picks up the pace and blends with a textured chorus of male vocals “Do you think you can rise to the top? Let’s see what you’ve got?” Well, Radio Drive definitely has what it takes with this new album.
The tracks just keep getting better and better as you go. “Borders” is the second song in the lineup and begins with a strong guitar presence that blossoms out into a drum sequence. Gullickson’s vocals pierce the veil of music and take you on a journey of the imagination. “Let your imagination take you far away. Beyond the borders only you define.” The guitar riffs keep the pace with percussion and vocals, leading you deeper into the wonders and forays into the voyage of the mind. The composition here is precise and the journey of discovery Gullickson is taking you on is one that any music or book lover will fall into. There is nothing like losing yourself in a good book or piece of music that tugs at your soul. This piece does more than tug-it yanks you happily into the creative abyss and you go over the cliff with arms outstretched.
“Never” is a haunting song that seems to stick in my head long after it stops playing. Ambient sound morphs up and quickly erupts into percussion, guitar and vocals that creep into your soul. Goth fans will love this piece. It is full of specters and things that thrive in the darkness. Gullickson casts a spell as he weaves a tale of regret, love and sacraments. This has to be one of my favorite pieces on the album. I didn’t think anything could be better than “Run” from I Can See The World From Here but this song is intrinsically deep and catchy at the same time.
This Is Our Time is another masterpiece for the amazing Kevin Gullickson. Radio Drive is truly going places. From his last release I Can See The World From Herein 2011, Gullickson is continuing in his rise to the top. Every song on this album is one I could write about and listen to for hours at a time. From the haunting words and sounds of “Never” to the thumb in the eye to greed in “Money You Don’t Own Me,” Gullickson has a winner here. Fans of 80’s Goth will enjoy this album immensely and new fans will love his fresh sound. This is an artist you will want to watch.
- Muzik Reviews


"This Is Our Time is one of the best albums we have reviewed this year"

Radio Drive – This Is Our Time (CD) / 2012 Self / 11 Tracks / http://www.radio-drive.com/

There is an eclectic sound that is fostered on This Is Our Time that will immediately impress. Rather than merely tracing over the styles and genres that are popular, Kevin Gullickson is able to create something bold and new with each of the 11 tracks on this album. The first track, Rising, is the perfect microcosm – in the nearly five minutes of the track, listeners will be provided with hints and pieces of what is to come. Borders is able to ride on the momentum created through this introductory track, as well as provide listeners with a very focused track. While not as expansive as Rising, Borders is a heart-felt track that will have listeners singing along well after the cut (and disc) has ceased.

The disc stays strong through its middle registers; Money, You Don’t Own Me is a powerful track that unites vocals and instrumentation into one cohesive entity. New Direction capitalizes nicely on the wakes left by this behemoth, and showcases the scintillating mélange of styles and influences that started off the album. This track looks back to the halcyon days of The Beatles while still firmly rooting itself in a style that can be appreciated by all. Two Simple Words is the penultimate track on This Is Our Time; far from gliding gently to rest, Radio Drive keeps things strong until the end.

Make it a point to see Radio Drive live; I believe that they will be able to emote to their fans in a way that cannot be captured on disc. This Is Our Time is one of the best albums we have reviewed this year, and I would personally like to hear where Gullickson will go from here.

Top Tracks: This Is Our Time, Money You Don’t Own Me

Rating: 8.6/10
- NeuFutur Magazine


"This Is Our Time is one of the best albums we have reviewed this year"

Radio Drive – This Is Our Time (CD) / 2012 Self / 11 Tracks / http://www.radio-drive.com/

There is an eclectic sound that is fostered on This Is Our Time that will immediately impress. Rather than merely tracing over the styles and genres that are popular, Kevin Gullickson is able to create something bold and new with each of the 11 tracks on this album. The first track, Rising, is the perfect microcosm – in the nearly five minutes of the track, listeners will be provided with hints and pieces of what is to come. Borders is able to ride on the momentum created through this introductory track, as well as provide listeners with a very focused track. While not as expansive as Rising, Borders is a heart-felt track that will have listeners singing along well after the cut (and disc) has ceased.

The disc stays strong through its middle registers; Money, You Don’t Own Me is a powerful track that unites vocals and instrumentation into one cohesive entity. New Direction capitalizes nicely on the wakes left by this behemoth, and showcases the scintillating mélange of styles and influences that started off the album. This track looks back to the halcyon days of The Beatles while still firmly rooting itself in a style that can be appreciated by all. Two Simple Words is the penultimate track on This Is Our Time; far from gliding gently to rest, Radio Drive keeps things strong until the end.

Make it a point to see Radio Drive live; I believe that they will be able to emote to their fans in a way that cannot be captured on disc. This Is Our Time is one of the best albums we have reviewed this year, and I would personally like to hear where Gullickson will go from here.

Top Tracks: This Is Our Time, Money You Don’t Own Me

Rating: 8.6/10
- NeuFutur Magazine


"5/5 STAR REVIEW - Radio Drive CD "Life Today""

There's no denying that an album is successful when almost every song makes you literally dance ridiculously around your house. Life Today, the newest release by Radio Drive, made me do just that, while clearly reaching me with its message to enjoy life.

“Let's Get Started” in particular made me dance for its entirety, and the lyrics touched me, too: “let's get started/time to rock and shake and move/time to get into the groove”. But it's not the only song on Life Today with that perspective; the album has a pretty clear message that life should be enjoyed as a positive thing. On the title track the man behind the music and words, Kevin Gullickson, sings, “There has to be a better way/I will enjoy life today/nothing will take that away”.

The music is just as positive as the lyrics, but none of it comes across as sugary pop. It's intricate guitar work and upbeat drums that make the songs snap and sing all on their own. Gullickson is a talented writer and composer, and it's obvious in each and every song.

Life Today is an album that will make you appreciate your day, no matter how bad it's going, without making you want to roll your eyes or feel like you need to hug a rainbow. It's exactly what I hope Gullickson intended.

Key Tracks: Life Today, Let's Get Started, Rising High, When Hearts Grow Cold


Abbey K. Davis – Sr. MuzikReviews.com Staff
November 30, 2010
©MuzikReviews.com
For Questions Or Comments About This Review Send An Email To info@muzikreviews.com
- Muzik Reviews


"5/5 Star Review: Radio Drive - "I Can See The World From Here""

Radio Drive
I Can See The World From Here

Radio Drive is the hot alternative pop rock band with international acclaim. The magic behind the scenes all centers on Kevin Gullickson, song writer, singer and multi-instrumentalist. I Can See the World From Here is Radio Drive’s third album to date released in June 2011. Full to the brim with nine original tracks, this album is a winner. Gullickson performed every instrument on the album and worked with Gene Paul (Grammy Award winning son of Les Paul) and his team at G&J Audio to mix and Remaster the CD.

“Run” rockets out of the park with a synthesized kick and attacks you with guitars that scream and thrash you into a listening frenzy. The first thing I thought when I heard the first sequence was this would be a great backdrop to a movie like Zombieland. A big grin plastered on my face, I cranked up the volume and let the supremely talented Gullickson lead me where ever he was going. “Run when you’re tired. Run when your strength’s expired.” The balance of synthesized sound, guitar and energy filled vocals makes you want to move, zombies or not. This has to be my favorite song on the album.

“Footsteps” is more pensive, with more a drum presence at the onset of the song. The vocals are very Beatles and the song is very elegant in harmonic quality. The guitar is smooth and Gullickson has composed some creative and compelling melodies that kept me riveted the whole way through. The lyrics are centered on a young man going to see a girl after a late night phone call. “You’ll hear the sound of my footsteps and know that I am there. You’ll hear the sound of my footsteps and know that I still care.” The blend of vocals and Gullickson’s guitar playing, drums and all of the other pieces of the song fit together perfectly. This is one of those songs you will be humming under your breath after you hear it.

“Northern Heights” has a lighter, almost fluttery feel at first. There is an edgy quality that builds until Gullickson explodes with the song and guitar. “I can see. I can see the world from here.” Clearly the song behind the title of the CD, this track has some cool riffs and the tension at times is almost unbearable. Smooth as silk and sharp as a razor, Gullickson’s vocals are subtle, yet intense and the song continues you on a winding path through the rest of the album. From a song about creationism, love and finally the last track, “Day and Night” which is purely instrumental.

If you have any leanings toward The Beatles, U2, Switchfoot or Coldplay, you will love this album. You know it’s good when the second it starts to play you get goose bumps down your arms and you just want to dance. It has a pop feel, but enough of an alternative style that it doesn’t come across like most pop albums you will find out there. Gullickson’s work with harmonies and the time spent in the studio mixing and intensifying this album really shows. The combination of Gene Paul and his group and Gullickson’s talent are electrifying. Each track brings a new experience that will have you looking for more songs to download. Radio Drive is a band to watch.

Key Tracks- Run, Footsteps, Northern Heights

Dana Wright-Muzikreviews.com Staff

September 5, 2011

©Muzikreviews.com

For Questions or comments about this review send an email to info@muzikreviews.com
- Muzik Reviews


"5/5 Star Review: Radio Drive - "I Can See The World From Here""

Radio Drive
I Can See The World From Here

Radio Drive is the hot alternative pop rock band with international acclaim. The magic behind the scenes all centers on Kevin Gullickson, song writer, singer and multi-instrumentalist. I Can See the World From Here is Radio Drive’s third album to date released in June 2011. Full to the brim with nine original tracks, this album is a winner. Gullickson performed every instrument on the album and worked with Gene Paul (Grammy Award winning son of Les Paul) and his team at G&J Audio to mix and Remaster the CD.

“Run” rockets out of the park with a synthesized kick and attacks you with guitars that scream and thrash you into a listening frenzy. The first thing I thought when I heard the first sequence was this would be a great backdrop to a movie like Zombieland. A big grin plastered on my face, I cranked up the volume and let the supremely talented Gullickson lead me where ever he was going. “Run when you’re tired. Run when your strength’s expired.” The balance of synthesized sound, guitar and energy filled vocals makes you want to move, zombies or not. This has to be my favorite song on the album.

“Footsteps” is more pensive, with more a drum presence at the onset of the song. The vocals are very Beatles and the song is very elegant in harmonic quality. The guitar is smooth and Gullickson has composed some creative and compelling melodies that kept me riveted the whole way through. The lyrics are centered on a young man going to see a girl after a late night phone call. “You’ll hear the sound of my footsteps and know that I am there. You’ll hear the sound of my footsteps and know that I still care.” The blend of vocals and Gullickson’s guitar playing, drums and all of the other pieces of the song fit together perfectly. This is one of those songs you will be humming under your breath after you hear it.

“Northern Heights” has a lighter, almost fluttery feel at first. There is an edgy quality that builds until Gullickson explodes with the song and guitar. “I can see. I can see the world from here.” Clearly the song behind the title of the CD, this track has some cool riffs and the tension at times is almost unbearable. Smooth as silk and sharp as a razor, Gullickson’s vocals are subtle, yet intense and the song continues you on a winding path through the rest of the album. From a song about creationism, love and finally the last track, “Day and Night” which is purely instrumental.

If you have any leanings toward The Beatles, U2, Switchfoot or Coldplay, you will love this album. You know it’s good when the second it starts to play you get goose bumps down your arms and you just want to dance. It has a pop feel, but enough of an alternative style that it doesn’t come across like most pop albums you will find out there. Gullickson’s work with harmonies and the time spent in the studio mixing and intensifying this album really shows. The combination of Gene Paul and his group and Gullickson’s talent are electrifying. Each track brings a new experience that will have you looking for more songs to download. Radio Drive is a band to watch.

Key Tracks- Run, Footsteps, Northern Heights

Dana Wright-Muzikreviews.com Staff

September 5, 2011

©Muzikreviews.com

For Questions or comments about this review send an email to info@muzikreviews.com
- Muzik Reviews


"Radio Drive signs with Artista Group management"

Aug 2014 - Kevin signs an artist management contract with Artista Group, an international management company that represents both musicians and actors (client list included Pierce Brosnan, Gene Hackman, Richard Gere, Sharon Stone, Madonna, Collective Soul, Willie Nelson, and more) - Kevin Gullickson


""A Taste of Heaven" nominated by Hollywood Music Awards"

February 2014 - Hollywood Music Awards nominates “A Taste of Heaven” best Alternative song for 2014 - Kevin Gullickson


Discography

Dream the Impossible (2009)

Life Today (2010)

I Can See The World From Here (2011)

This is Our Time (2012)

"A Taste of Heaven" (2014) - single / EP

Humanity (single 2015)

She Colors My World - album (2018)

In the Light - album (2019)

Photos

Bio

Kevin Gullickson’s decision to keep the cool moniker of his newly disbanded group Radio Drive when he launched his solo career in 2009 proved to be prophetic. Forging an uplifting, sonically eclectic vibe best described as “motivational rock,” the prolific singer/songwriter’s first three releases—Dream The Impossible (2009), Life Today (2010) and I Can See The World From Here—received impressive reviews around the globe and extensive airplay on online, college and indie stations in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Life Today also hit the Top 40 charts on CJSW Radio in Calgary, Canada. Expanding his rich palette of sounds even further, Gullickson’s latest Radio Drive project finds the multi-talented artist firmly declaring that This Is Our Time.

While it’s rare for an indie artist just starting to build a following to put out new albums so frequently, Gullickson’s always eager to share his latest sonic discoveries and lyrics that aim to uplift individuals in a time where so many feel deep despair. Like his previous recording, the new 11 track collection was mixed and mastered by Grammy Award winner Gene Paul, son of the legendary Les Paul, who has worked similar magic for many years with legends like Led Zeppelin, Paul Simon, Rolling Stones, Bono and John Coltrane. In an honest assessment of his growth as a writer and producer, Gullickson believes that the songs and production on This Is Our Time are more developed than on his previous efforts.

“I think with the first two CDs I tried to keep within a song structure,” he says. “It’s good to know the rules but after a while, you’ve got to break them. The most popular songs on Life Today were also the most creative ones—which taught me that if I let go of the calculated song structure and let the song express itself and take its own direction, I would be giving the song more freedom. This time, I also spent more time searching for new and different sounds that worked within the songs. I love working with MIDI and have extensive sound libraries. I’ve added more dimension to the guitar parts, looking for FX to add the right flavor to the part.”

The other element that’s immediately compelling on This Is Our Time is Gullickson’s clever way with encouraging, inspiring words. On the bluesy electric rocker “Borders,” he urges listeners to “Let your imagination take you far away/Beyond the confines of your only mind…Beyond the Borders you define.” On the trippy and hypnotic edgy pop tune “Life Is For Living,” Gullickson sings, “You planned and prepared for this day/Tired of Being A Spectator, it’s time to play…Life is For Living…Get your game on and participate.” And on the shuffling, keyboard and guitar driven “New Direction” (a piece very much inspired by John Lennon), he reflects, “Every Year, every step, needs a new beginning.” The singer captures the overall positive minded theme of the album on the hard driving title track: “This is our time to come alive inside/Do more than survive/Time to thrive.”

Gullickson brings a rich musical history to his work with Radio Drive. Early on, he received radio play in his hometown of Rochester, Minnesota and followed up with a single that aired on stations in the Twin Cities. He traveled throughout Europe to develop his own sound sound and style which he later developed with The Blokes—a band that achieved instant success on the Minneapolis/St. Paul club scene, including First Avenue. The singer later moved to NYC where he continued writing, recording and playing clubs as a solo musician. During this time, he received interest from five major record companies and several Grammy winning producers. He set music aside after various disappointments but roared back as the guiding force of Radio Drive. In November 2009, the song “One Life To Give” from his debut Dream the Impossible was chosen to represent Sudan Hope, a humanitarian effort to help the people of Sudan. He appeared at a Hollywood fundraiser to perform this song live.

*Ran out of space - full bio at http://www.radio-drive.com

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