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New Single By Warm Chord Music – ‘Haunted Dreams’
by Adrian Avallone @ Skope • September 6, 2018
Jay Croft’s journey through the professional music world began in the 1990’s when he helped co-found Detroit’s indie power pop outfit Bedford Drive and played drums for them from 1998 through 2004 when he opted to leave the band and focus on other pursuits. He learned guitar during that tenure with an eye towards increasing his songwriting contributions and the first indication, outside of Bedford Drive, of this paying off for him arrived with his first solo album, 2000’s DIY effort Adventures in Lo-Fi. Croft continued following his wayward muse over the next few years, forming another briefly lived outfit, the two-guitar driven Keep Manhattan, and logging significant time playing drums with the classic rock cover band The DR5. He founded his current project, Warm Chord Music, in 2013 and scored with an action-packed initial release “Indecisive”. The latest single from Warm Chord Music, “Haunted Dreams”, shows Croft continuing to develop and refine Warm Chord Music’s punchy hard rock sound and should expand his profile both locally and on a national level.
If nothing else set this apart from your standard hard rock fare, Croft’s willingness for highlighting dueling female and male lead vocals in this context marks it as far from standard. Nicole and Aiden exhibit enough differences in their respective approaches to give “Haunted Dreams” an idiosyncratic flavor, but the similarities between their takes on the lyric and singing with the band rather than against it preserves the unity necessary for this song to hit a new, higher level than any of the project’s three preceding singles. The two singers are session vocalists, but you’d never know it. Instead, they attack the song’s lyrical content like they’ve been involved with every step of its creation and are fully invested in both the arrangement and song’s message.
The brisk pace Croft sets out for “Haunted Dreams” gives it a rambunctious energy level, but there’s never any sense the song is about to careen off course. Instead, Croft shows great taste and restraint in a genre usually not associated with such descriptions and the streamlined tone of the single reflects his utter lack of self indulgence. Warm Chord Music may be Jay Croft’s creative baby, but it’s a testament to his talents that “Haunted Dreams” doesn’t sound like a glorified solo vehicle but, instead, a full fledged band effort that lingers with you long after the final note fades. It’s convincing hard rock without any of the clichés too often weighing down such efforts.
https://skopemag.com/2018/09/06/new-single-by-warm-chord-music-haunted-dreams
warlock asylum blog - "Haunted Dreams" review
published by warlock asylum international news on september 3rd, 2018
Based out of Detroit, Michigan, entrepreneur, singer, and songwriter Jason (Jay) Croft has created an impressive catalog of melody under the brand name Warm Chord Music. Croft is a seasoned musician who has experience in working upfront on stage and behind the scenes in some of the more technical aspects of the music trade. Over the past five years, Croft has received a wide range of accolades for his work in the alternative rock music genre. His latest single Haunted Dreams has landed several sync licenses from cable TV networks such as Discovery, MTV, NASCAR, and Fox Sports.
Haunted Dreams is an electrifying rock tune that borders upon the musical landscapes of alternative and hardcore rock music. Haunted Dreams’ cinematic song structure allows Croft the luxury of painting visuals in the minds of his audience. In this case, we find an exceptional rock duet that beckons upon the lyrical proficiency of this man and woman collaboration. Haunted Dreams comes with a nice music video that serves as an aid in accentuating the song’s mood and theme. Haunted Dreams by Warm Chord Music proves to be a choral wet dream that rock purists adore
Click here to access the blog post: https://warlockasyluminternationalnews.com/2018/09/03/haunted-dreams-by-warm-chord-music/
Xtrawave - "Haunted Dreams" review
published by xtrawave blog on August 30th, 2018
“Haunted Dreams” is an intentionally earnest tune that is recorded and performed by the band Warm Chord Music. In being filled with powerful and thrilling chords, it reveals itself as an exquisite and interesting piece of music.
Once you press play you are jolted by the surging guitars and meticulous rhythm accompanied by high-energy vocals that render the song a ready-made chop. Everything feels rock solid as you listen on, but nothing prepares you for the catchy hook, igniting a lovesick moment that feels the stale air.
Thanks to the cranked up amplifiers and the walloped drums, there is nothing short of a dramatic presence that makes “Haunted Dreams” a good fit for the band in expressing cold-chill vibes and deep dreaded anxiety. Warm Chord Music through their raw and dark lyrics, acknowledge inner thoughts that trap one in an endless cycle of despair and confusion.
It begs the listener to yearn more for the thought-provoking sensations that strike you with much curiosity. Sticking you with a powerful and mysterious narrative, you are kept engaged as the song charges through, not leaving you with enough room to stop and take a gasp, they maintain the energy up until the very last minute.
“Haunted Dreams” carries with it creative and heartfelt emotions where the lyrics drive you into push and pull actions with the characters. You develop a keen interest as you let yourself get much absorbed into the storyline. You get a burning sense of how long this inner turmoil and uncertainty is seemingly never going to end.
This makes the song ever appealing, and at the very least, solid and clear-cut in showing originality and a wild imagination that is ready to dominate your thoughts. Especially for troubled souls unable to judge their emotions, it brings with it some sort of familiarity, making it much more good in resonating with their sophisticated minds.
“Haunted Dreams” feels special and tries best to generate a sense of hope and ambition in resolving a conflict that may drive you crazy, enough to push you to the end of your limits. Without exception, the band delivers an inspiring song that declares a spot within modern rock music, being brusque and flexible with it’s varied instruments. They are definitely a rock machine to watch out for as they dictate and uphold superb standards in sounding delicate and accomplished.
Click here to access the blog post: https://xtrawave.wordpress.com/2018/08/31/warm-chord-music-haunted-dreams/
Dancing about architecture - "Haunted Dreams" review
By Dave franklin on september 1, 2018
I have to confess that as this song kicked in I thought, here we go again, the same angsty, emo anthem, the same blend of existential imagery and the idea that nobody really understands the pain of having your mom constantly telling you to tidy your room or asking you to put the trash out. Evanescence have a lot to answer for! And then, at just over a minute in, something changed. The chorus kicks in, the song breaks wide open, crescendos soar into the sky and the whole thing makes you think…hmmm…actually this is pretty good.
The second play already has you anticipating this dynamic change, the third you are singing along, by the fourth the song feels like an old friend and after that it feels like a long lost 90’s alt-rock classic. Maybe some songs take longer to get your head around, but then they are the ones that are most rewarding.
Okay, I might not be the target audience any more but anything that reminds me of moshing about in an alternative night club at two in the morning somewhere in the early nineties ticks enough boxes for me and I’m sure that it will find a whole young audience out there who are still setting about making their own nostalgic musical memories. I had Monster Magnet for company, you’ve got Warm Cloud Music. Have fun kids and enjoy your music irresponsibly!
Click here to access the blog post: https://dancingaboutarchitecture.info/2018/09/01/haunted-dreams-warm-chord-music-reviewed-by-dave-franklin/
The ratings game - "Haunted Dreams" Review
By the widows peak bandit on september 2, 2018
Warm Chord’s Haunted Dreams is special. First and foremost, the electrifying energy attached to it caught my attention instantly, as listeners are treated to some daring vocals, heavy-hitting drumming and intoxicating guitar-play that is so intense that my neighbors told me to turn my speakers down even though I was listening to it on my earphones. Aside from that, the melody the vocalists were able to deliver was so well-constructed that my head was in a swivel keeping up with its twist and turns. But shouldn’t we expect such an epic outcome for a song in which our heroes talk about understanding each other’s pain and having the keys to each other’s hearts? I think so, which means Warm Chords delivered here.
Click here to access the blog post: https://ratingsgamemusic.com/2018/09/02/warm-chords-haunted-dreams-is-quite-the-riveting-experience-review-stream/
Sleeping bag studios - "Haunted Dreams" Review
By Jer@SBS on september 2, 2018
We might be in for one of them ol’ redesigned sounds here…
From the looks of things, Jay Croft, the musical mastermind behind the tunes of Warm Chord Music, is working with a few new people in the mix. I’m just going by what I’m looking at on the official homepage – I don’t know the full catalog of tunes or what the whole history in this project is – but if you look at the music page you’ll see that prior to the new single “Haunted Dreams,” the songs date back two years ago & feature an entirely different lineup of musicians alongside Jay. Notably as well…if you look behind the studio boards, you’ll see that it’s almost the direct opposite scenario – Jay’s found who he likes for the production, recording, mixing, mastering & all that. And don’t get me wrong, again, I don’t have any hard evidence to support any conspiracy theories of any kind – I’m not suggesting the old lineup of players weren’t hittin’ it as hard as he might have liked them to – redesigning a band or finding the right collaboration to bring a vision to life can have a lot to do with finding the specific pieces of the puzzle you need to complete the picture. Main point really being, things are different than the last time Warm Chord Music was posting…perhaps this project has further evolved & refined itself from what you might already know. A true leader, whether it’s the captain of a football team, the head of a company, or the centerpiece of a band like Jay is – understands that they need their key players to be in the right positions…and even if that means benching themselves for a better result, it’s worth it in the end.
And so the most notable switch in the music between then and now for Warm Chord Music instantly becomes the difference on the microphone, unquestionably, as Jay passes over his previous vocal duties to Nicole and Aiden of Studio Pros – for the majority of you that are familiar with WCM, that’ll be the most noticeable switch in the sound on that first spin through “Haunted Dreams.” Jay’s still plenty involved here – this is still his tune, his lyrics, his music, his direction, his drums, his rhythm guitar – and like tunes from him in Warm Chord Music you’ve heard in the past, the gripping intensity & high-energy sound you love is still completely intact. More than intact really – “Haunted Dreams” sonically rips by and offers multiple access points to anyone that would listen…there’s a ton going right on this track.
Studio Pros are where they come from…and let me tell ya – that’s one hell of an accurate name. As far as vocals go, this was a great move on Jay’s part to recognize he was looking for a different sound than he’d personally be able to bring to this song, and he’s found the best possible help to assist in bringing “Haunted Dreams” to life with Nicole and Aiden. These two ARE Studio Pros – there’s zero doubt about that. Aiden, my brother, you do a great job and I love the smoothness you bring in contrast to the rest of the wild vocals surrounding you…I wouldn’t take a single thing away from a spot-on performance like that – BUT – Nicole, sister, YOU are freakin’ superhuman lady-friend. The powerful way she leads the way through this song is nothing short of breathtaking – that’s one of the best voices I’ve heard out there in any genre or style right now and she CRUSHES her moments on “Haunted Dreams” with such confidence, commitment, skill & style that it’ll drop your jaws in amazement – this lady is amazing. I’d imagine with both Nicole and Aiden coming from the same warehouse of musical awesomeness at Studio Pros that they’re familiar with each other’s own style & sound, which also helps to explain the brilliant chemistry they display between them when singing this single together & harmonizing; they’re very complementary to each other’s approach and a perfect fit when combined. Even if they didn’t know each other at all beforehand somehow…”Haunted Dreams” has that insane level of energy that you can’t possibly resist…you can hear how it’s taken hold of the singers of this song and how it’s inspired them to put in award-worthy performances on this new single from Warm Chord Music.
It’s ALL awesomeness, all-around though…there’s no doubt about it. Anyone who’s ever spent any time with a Foo Fighters record in the past will absolutely love the way the guitars and energy of this track start up, and through the vocals of both Aiden and Nicole, the entire sound ends up shifting into a powerful direction this collaboration can call their own without further comparisons. LOVE the crunch in the distorted chops & riffs of the guitars, I think Nicole makes a badass first impression and I felt like that first time we hear Aiden really makes a killer impact; there’s strong writing in the verse that stands-out & never stops entertaining, in addition to a chorus that blows the entire roof off the place. Seriously – turn this up in your own house all the way if you dare, and then look up, your roof will be gone and you’ll be asking Aunty Em if that was a twister that just rolled through. But nope – it’s just the storming energy & relentlessly killer focus that this collaboration puts in, bringing every second of this atmosphere vibrantly to life in a way that envelops you entirely & won’t let go. Nor would you want it to. Jim Henderson adds in further character and badassness to “Haunted Dreams” with kickass tone in the lead guitars, and Ben Steeves keeps the rhythm rolling hard with the strength added from the bass. Noteworthy drums from Jay…when combined with the main riffs & energy through the verse – what else can be said other than the guy is a complete beast back there on the throne and keeps the pulse of this track surging forward strongly at every twist & turn – of which there are many. Structure and songwriting definitely play pivotal roles in just how entertaining and engaging this song really is – clever breakdowns, solos, killer main parts like its verse & chorus, space for instrumentation and the shifting dynamics of a songwriter that understands how to wield the loud/quiet moments to a track’s advantage. It is extremely hard for any one element to outshine Nicole’s radiant performance on “Haunted Dreams” – but there’s zero doubt about the fact that every single player involved knows that & give it their best. End results become an entire band that gives an A+ performance as they rise to the challenge set forth by the extraordinary standards set by Nicole’s bold vocals, of whom I maintain, is not from this world.
Definitely a meaty tune designed to last – “Haunted Dreams” by Warm Chord Music is without question one of the most killer tunes in Rock-anything that you’ll hear in 2018. Jay’s made some amazing moves forward in those two years away…and if the caliber & quality of the writing, execution, and sound of this single are any indication – Warm Chord Music is ready to supply the heat to your speakers big-time throughout these next years to come. Highly impressed with this cut – it’s impeccable, straight-up.
Click here to access the blog post: http://sleepingbagstudios.ca/warm-chord-music-haunted-dreams/
The bandcamp diaries - "haunted dreams" review
Published on September 2nd, 2018
Warm Chord Music is an exciting music project with a sound that blurs the lines between alternative rock, punk, and many other genres. Recently, the group released a brand new song titled “Haunted Dreams,” which really highlights the band’s high energy and charisma.
The sound and feel of this track make me think of artists as diverse as Foo Fighters, Paramore or Yellowcard, making for an absolutely massive rock sound. The rhythm section is tight, punch and aggressive, while the guitars cut seamlessly through the mix like a blade running through hot melting butter. The vocals are layered very skillfully, and they offer a passionate, gritty and strong performance, with a very poignant lyricism and a sound that’s really easy to connect with. This is actually the 4th single released by the band, and it really highlights the band’s growth and vision!
Learn more about Warm Chord Music, and check out “Haunted Dreams” and other striking releases from this amazing act.
Click here to access the blog post: http://thebandcampdiaries.com/post/177584585117/warm-chord-music-haunted-dreams-warm-chord-music
MUSIC INDUSTRY NEWS NETWORK - HAUNTED DREAMS REVIEW
By josh parker, SEPTEMBER 4th, 2018
Jason Croft, popularly known as Jay Croft, is a Detroit based singer and songwriter who has yearned a immense popularity and lived his passion for music for many many years. Though he had started his career as a drummer, soon started taking guitar lessons to improve his skills. Having worked with many bands in various positions, Croft is well versed with stage performances, recording tactics and collaborations.
Experienced and knowledgeable, he has also extended his knowledge with instruments to various other bands. With undying efforts and tireless hard work, his passion has taken him through many rough edges but then it has finally brought him to form and produce his own alternative rock band, Warm Chord Music, which has also gained quite a reputation for its exceptionally melodious singles. With another hit released track, Haunted Dreams, Croft has made his way to the #184 in the College Radio Chart and over two hundred of radio stations are currently playing his track regularly.
The single, Haunted Dreams, does truly haunt its listeners but for all the right reasons This alternative rock duo not only gives pleasant hearing sensations but also produces relatable positive vibes which are difficult to ignore. Written and sung by Croft himself the song is a memorandum of his amusing talents.
With heavy guitar riffs and pulsating drum beats the track opens into an enchanting melodious journey of pain, suffering, solitude and finally settles down into understanding, companionship, and warmth. The natural instincts of deprivation and longing are well executed with meaningful lyrics and equally synced melodious harmony. Woven in a tale of dark and bright emotions this song does have over a lot of positive energy into the surrounding.
Being the multi-talented instrumentalist of the band, Croft has the kept the music pretty hard yet maintaining a mild and calm drift which is another unique aspect of the track. Though based on the foundation of the alternative rock genre, the song doesn't bear such hard metal beats which could numb the lyrics completely proving the song to be only about throbbing heartbeats. A well structured and balanced instrumental arrangement makes the track more pleasant and enjoyable to the core.
The track is quite an energy-packed and powerful but being highly enthralling the track has a strong gripping capacity which is hard to miss for any avid listener. An expert in production work and recording unit, Croft has depicted his craftsmanship well. The high-quality sound, the digital mixing and the tiny amplifiers, everything just perfectly matches each other.
The single, Haunted Dreams, is a well-crafted track with inspiring lyrics, catchy chorus, and melodious instrumental backup. Themed on the tales of vibrant feelings, this emotional journey is not one to be missed. A remarkable work by the great artist, the song just proves to be one of his greatest work. Overall, a brilliant art on its own, this song can become one's companion and philosopher within a few repeated plays. Energetic and entertaining, this is one song of the year not to be missed by anyone, whether one is a rock lover or not.
9.6/10 Stars
ROCK THE PIGEON - The Music Blog
Artist of the Day: Warm Chord Music w/ “Haunted Dreams” (March 22, 2018)
"Warm Chord Music (Jay Croft), a hard rock band/artist from Detroit, just released their new single ‘Haunted Dreams.’ For this track, songwriter Jay Croft decided to utilize dual male and female vocals. This gives the track a real Paramore vibe without sacrificing the balls-to-the-wall mentality that makes hard rock timeless. All of the musicianship, while not exactly groundbreaking, is highly competent. The track’s high production value really shows. Expect to hear more from Warm Chord Music soon."
Written by Noah Zucker
Click here to access the blog post: https://rtpmusicblog.com/2018/03/22/artist-of-the-day-warm-chord-music-w-haunted-dreams/