changing music one bleep at a time: Turn Me Off

Meet the Oakland quartet Audrye Sessions. Their self-titled debut on Black Seal — available now — is packed with polished, propulsive rock songs and gentle, stripped-down tunes with the kind of ear-grabbing melodies that instantly hard-wire themselves into your brain. Recorded with Andrew Scheps (U2, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Johnny Cash) and Matt Radosevich (The Hives, Taking Back Sunday), the album is anchored by Ryan Karazija's remarkable voice, which is whisper vulnerable one minute, roiling with emotion the next and easily slips into a smooth falsetto.

Right before I left for Australia, I had the amazing opportunity to catch their show at the Troubadour in West Hollywood. I didn't really know what to expect because I wasn't familiar with their music. Well, I got to the Troub to be greeted by a giant line that spread down along Santa Monica Blvd., nearly wrapping around the street. Thankfully, I was able to get right in due to the kindness of a gal named Lauren - BIG SHOUT OUT TO YOU!! As I entered the Troubadour the band began to play. The house was packed with adoring fans, cheering and screaming, and practically singing the entire set for the band. I had no idea this band was so huge, but I now understand why, because I instantly became a fan. They have this huge force that sucked me in. I had to go back and listen to the album again, because I felt that I didn't completely get it until I saw them live.

The show was fantastic, and now I can't seem to get their CD out of my car. It's one of those things I love when I check out an artist I don't know - it's like the chocolate surprise in one of those Drumsticks (ice cream). A treat waiting for you to get to the center and find. Go pick up your copy now - only $5.99 on iTunes!