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Contact: Hotline, 310-497-7223
Web: MySpace.com/voxsonus
The Players: Valedya Macias, vo-cals; Rick Brandt, guitar; Ashkan Tabrizi, keys and synth; Tiziano, bass; Brian Cortese, drums; Dennis Timashpolsky and his string quartet.
Material: Vox Sonus weaves in-teresting layers of instruments and melodies to create a unique signature sound. With its orchestral soundscape, the material is frequently dramatic and often emotional. With a wide variety of textures, Vox Sonus produces music for the soul. And, though there are classical elements incorporated in every song, including a string quartet, the music is a contemporary form of alternative rock.
Musicianship: All of the players in Vox Sonus are excellent and appear to be pro level. The im-pressive wall of sound they create is as extraordinary as it is moving. Complex, yet accessible, this group truly serve the songs, rather than themselves. On top of this gilded cushion, Valedya Macias emotes a sultry voice that gives the songs their soulful sound.
Performance: Macias was the focus of attention, and she did a good job keeping the energy level constant. She interacted well with her bandmates, moving around the stage among them, often stopping to pay attention to each member. This close camaraderie made the performance even more enjoyable by creating a warm atmosphere.
Summary: Vox Sonus is an un-usual act. Though the material has clear rock overtones, its concept and execution are multifaceted. In the hands of a less talented group, the ambition of a project like this could cause problems. But, this musical ensemble not only manages to pull it all together, it also gives the music a shimmering beauty.
––Bernard Baur
- Music Connection Magazine
"Vox Sonus weaves interesting layers of instruments and melodies to create a unique signature sound. With its orchestral soundscape, the material is frequently dramatic and often emotional. With a wide variety of textures, Vox Sonus produces music for the soul. And, though there are classical elements incorporated in every song, including a string quartet, the music is a contemporary form of alternative rock. "
Bernard Baur,
Music Connection
Review Editor, A&R Report, Features - Music Connection-Bernard Baur
Discography
The Human Feel e.p.
singles played on radio and streamed for troops in Iraq- Bullets and Kisses, Raise Your Hands
Photos
Bio
Vox Sonus officially formed in December 2004 after songwriter/performer Rick Brandt (guitar, cello, bass), and Val Macias (vocals, rhythm guitar, keys) wrote their first song together, initially intended as a Christmas gift for their families. It became the match that started a fire to continue writing --- cultivating the sound of the band.
In 2005, Rick and Val began recording an acoustic demo that soon acquired interest from local independent label, Velvet Liner Productions. The label's interest sparked the attention of investors, who believed in the future and artistic ability of the band. Several talented and accomplished musicians recorded with Vox Sonus on their debut EP including session player, Gary Mallaber (drums), who has performed and recorded with Bruce Springsteen, Steve Miller, and Los Lobos. Tom Lilly (bass), who has performed with Mick Fleetwood, and is currently touring with Beth Hart, along with Chris Smith (piano/ keyboards) of Jefferson Starship.
Jono Brown, owner of Word of Mouth Studio and reputable drummer, has described Vox Sonus' sound as being "...melodic like U2, with a female singer".
Inspired by the originality and virtue of the music, long-time friend and fellow musician Brian Cortese (drums and percussion) joined the duo in March 2006.
The Trio has performed several live shows at clubs such as The Rainbow Bar on Sunset Blvd., The Mountain Bar in Chinatown and The Limelight in San Antonio, TX.--- to name a few. The band performed a live studio set and interview with radio station KSYM 90.1 in San Antonio, Texas. Additionally, Rick and Val have also performed live on San Antonio's popular CBS Television Morning Show "Great Day S.A."
Vox Sonus' debut CD "The Human Feel" is a collection of deep thoughts and raw emotion that chronicles the writers' experiences in a new city. From the gentle sounds of "In His Light" to the energetic "Raise Your Hands", each song tells an inspiring and personal story in the life of the creators. They weave the rich, warming depths of the cello, with the sultry sweetness and strength of the vocals, driving piano lines and wholesome, deliberate guitar licks.
"The Human Feel" is available online at CD Baby.com, itunes, and other popular websites. The band is currently in the studio recording their next album.
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