Outmusic band Ravenz
Gate is the brainchild of sultry songstress Leslie
Ruland, whose soulful vocals and superb
craftsmanship make her a stand-out leaps and bounds
ahead of the usual power-pop rocksters. Ravenz Gate
played Girls at Gay Days (Orlando) 2004-06, the
Lilish Fair 2003-05, and was a finalist in the Women
Who Rock Florida Battle of the Bands 2006. The band
was also featured on Gay Internet Radio Live.com and
continues to play GLBT venues throughout Florida.
Upon hearing the first bar of the majestic vocals on
her debut cd “Less Is More”, produced by Brett
Hestla (Creed/Dark New Day) and Justin Thomas, I
stopped in my tracks. Literally. I did. Her vocal
timbre possesses such a rare depth and richness… and
combined with superb styling and passion, she
delivers an unforgettable aural delight. Evocative
chord progressions are peppered with soaring guitars
and delicate harmonies throughout.
The musicianship and
production are outstanding, and clever, insightful
lyrics are woven masterfully into every song. During
“Crawl” she unapologetically taunts “my bones are
cold, they’re feeling like metal”, while the
acoustic beauty “Dreams” will surely have you living
and breathing her desperation and desire. “Hungry
For You” is an absolutely mesmerizing piece of
lyrical and musical artistry…”a taste, a touch, just
one moment with you, it might be everything”. She
kicks it up a notch with the bouncy tunes “Reach
Out” and “No One to Blame”. Each of these 11 songs
is hauntingly memorable. This cd is a must-have for
anyone who appreciates skillful songwriting and pure
musical ecstasy. Tune in and turn yourself on!
Seriously folks, this cd is brilliant.
Hook
is an LA singer/songwriter/activist whose background
includes writing and editing projects, indie film
music licensing, studio work, and of course sordid
band life. Her ‘outside the box’ approach to music
and its influence in our lives is as unmistakable as
the rainbow flag emblazoned on her forehead. All you
lovely boyz and girlz can check her out at
www.myspace.com/planethook or email her at
hoeck@digital.net.
Another great choice! Thanks Hook, you have the best taste in music. Thanks for not picking the typical lezbo folksters! I love this CD.... and the artwork is amazing on the cover too! Sheeeet