Taylor Locke

Five Songs To Hear This Week – Rathborne, White Arrows, Taylor Locke, The Princess, Bang Gang
FEBRUARY 23, 2015 / 0 COMMENTS

Historically known for its spiked cocktails of sunshine pop and desert-dwelling psychedelia, the west-coast scene has rarely sounded so, well, resolutely British, thanks to ex-frontman of Rooney Taylor Locke‘s stomp-box-sustained salute to The Beatles’ Come Together that is Call Me Kuchu. - Q Magazine

A few notes of electric piano and semi-distant slide guitar stamps Time Stands Still with the hallmarks of a West Coast album with a whole heap of promise. The opening track of Time Stands Still, “Burbank Woman”, was my first experience of the music of Taylor Locke and by the end of the song, I was a Taylor Locke fan. With Locke’s gently yearning vocal, resigned lyrics of unrequited love, yet mature emotional restraint, backed with a gentle rolling shuffle drum beat, “Burbank Woman” is a classy way to open any album.

As the guitar player of Rooney, Locke has been a fixture of American Powerpop scene since the start of the last decade. Time Stands Still is his solo debut, and it makes for one hell of a calling card, as it confirms without doubt that he’s capable of genuinely great things, and the work of a man who is a master of his craft, effortlessly drawing influences from the same deep well as the likes of Crowded House and Brendan Benson.

Lead single, “Running Away From Love”, is Time Stands Still’s unashamedly commercial moment. This is undoubtedly a good thing, because the whole point of Powerpop is to be catchy as hell, which is something that “Running Away From Love” has etched throughout, from its upbeat bouncy rhythm, Locke’s joyous vocal and a blast of bright guitar. This musical optimism is at odds with the lyrics, but this is a feature throughout Time Stands Still that makes it such a genuinely great album. The underlying theme of a soured relationship informs the lyrics of the majority of songs, but that in no way means that it’s a downbeat listen, as Locke’s vocals and the tunes lend the whole album a feeling of optimism.

Another strength of Time Stands Still is its relative brevity – at under 33 minutes it certainly doesn’t hang about. A lesser talent may have been tempted to pad the album out with more songs, but Locke is smart enough to know that ten fully realised songs are preferable to fifteen pretty good tunes which outstay their welcome. This level of care and attention means that the ten tracks that make up Time Stands Still are diverse examples of pop rock, but of uniformly good quality, with even with a relatively introverted number like the title track sounding like a mini masterpiece.

Riffing rocker “Call Me Kuchu” is the centerpiece of the second half of Time Stands Still, but it doesn’t dominate preceedings to the point where it over-shadows the rest of the songs. An irresitable mid-paced number, it has a slightly threatening feel that hints that Locke has the potential to unleash the unrepentant rock beast on the live stage should the mood take him.

As previously mentioned, the majority of Time Stands Still seems informed by failed relationships, nowhere more so than on the gorgeous “The Art of Moving On”, an almost embarrasingly accurate analysis of how most modern males react when a well established relationship comes to an end. It’s this grounding in universal truths which proves to be one of the hidden strengths of Time Stands Still, as there’s a genuineness to Locke that only the very best msucians seem capable of.

Time Stands Still is an album that genuienly took me by surprise. On intial listen, it’s a refreshingly straightforward blast of Powerpop, but repeated plays continue to reveal additional layers that were not previosuly so obvious, the result of which is that after a dozen or so plays of this album, my respect for the talent of Taylor Locke has continued to expanded exponentially.

After years of being just out of the spotlight Powerpop’s new hero has taken centre-stage, and you know something? He’s utterly brilliant. - Backseat Mafia

Premiere: Californian singer-songwriter streams debut solo album
Taylor Locke, the former Rooney guitarist, has released a stream of his debut solo album Time Stands Still.

"I think the term 'singer-songwriter' sadly evokes a white guy in a coffee shop strumming a fucking G-chord all day," says Locke. "I think this record sounds more like a band record… the band just takes occasional smoke breaks."

Since Rooney's demise, Locke has released two albums and a live EP as part of Taylor Locke and the Roughs and struck up a friendship with impresario Kim Fowley, which led to the recording of Time Stands Still.

"I was given a notebook of lyrics from the legendary songwriter and manager Kim Fowley and decided to use those as a jumping off point. I was in sort of a loner mode and unsure if I wanted to start another band. I searched through the Fowley lyrics and showed the ones I liked to my friend [LA songwriter] Kelly Jones who had impressed me with her recent solo album Alta Loma. We wrote a couple songs using the Fowley lyrics but quickly exhausted that source and began moving in a new direction. We were going to call this project the Fowleys and make it a band thing but Kim said he'd sue the shit out of me. That made the decision to go solo pretty easy. I guess Kelly became the female J.D. Souther for this project."

Time Stands Still is released on February 23, and can be pre-ordered from Lojinx now. The whole album can be streamed below. - Classic Rock Magazine

WATCH TAYLOR LOCKE TAKE THE COUCH CAR OUT FOR A SPIN (VIDEO PREMIERE)

Taylor Locke has long been a fixture on the SoCal power-pop scene, first as lead guitarist for the band Rooney and later with his own '70s-influenced group, Taylor Locke and the Roughs. Now he's working on his first proper solo album, Time Stands Still — and when L.A. Weekly saw the video for the first single, "Running Away From Love," we just knew we had to feature it.



Not only is "Running Away From Love" a ray of Big Star/Rundgren-inspired power-pop sunshine, the video features Locke cruising around the streets of Los Feliz is his very own motorized Couch Car. Yes, it's a couch that's also a car. And it's real. We'll let Taylor explain.



L.A. Weekly: So the Couch Car is a real thing? How did you find out about it?



Taylor Locke: The Couch Car is real. I found out about when my neighbor drove by on it. I knew at that moment that it would be the only mode of transportation that I'd ever need to plan a music video around.



L.A. Weekly: Did you have to buy a Couch Car for the video, or were you able to get one on loan?



Taylor Locke: I am not at liberty to discuss my relationship with Couch Car Industries. Let's just say I have an artist agreement with their team.



L.A. Weekly: What was the funniest reaction you got to the Couch Car from random people on the street?



TL: I think the funniest reaction is well-documented in the video... a large, undulating woman, with an ample breast endowment, chased me down the street wearing only Nike Air running shoes. It was later determined that she was on vodka.



L.A. Weekly: Is "Running Away from Love" pretty representative of what the rest of Time Stands Still sounds like?



TL: Not necessarily across the board. The record has sparse, intimate acoustic moments, where it sounds like the band took a break. Solo artist territory is new for me, so I wanted to be sure that the lyrics were personal, and forward in the mix. I avoided the trend of reverb-drenched or overtly lo-fi sounds. I'm generally working with a fairly classic '60s/'70s preservationist palette, although my next record will probably be an EDM meets spoken word feminist slam poetry meets Germanic beatboxing meets jock rock affair. Anyone who knows me knows I'm always trying to nail that whole "techno meets Korn" thing.



L.A. Weekly: Who have you been working with on the album?

TL: The impetus of the project was a folder of lyrics given to me by the infamous Kim Fowley. I was pretending to be Elton John, and he was pretending to be Bernie Taupin, which lasted for two songs.

My main right hand man became co-producer/engineer/mixer/multi-instrumentalist Kyle Fredrickson. He and I were the main midnight oil burners. I did a ton of cowriting with my good friend, the fantastic singer-songwriter Kelly Jones. Her last record Alta Loma is spectacular. One of my comrades Chris Price appears as a writer and player on a few songs. We've worked together a ton, and have very similar taste. The exceptional drummer in my live band, Ben Lecourt, plays on most of the album.



L.A. Weekly: I'm sure the ladies will want to know: Did you already own a pair of lime-green briefs, or were those purchased especially for the video?



TL: No new wardrobe was purchased for the video. I was already the proud owner of those Borat briefs.



Taylor Locke performs at El Cid on Saturday, Nov. 15. For more info, click here or visit www.taylorlockemusic.com. - LA Weekly

Here it is, our annual Hot 100 list of unsigned performers who delivered something special onstage this year. Contributing nominations to 2014’s list were MC staffers as well as freelance writers, club bookers, A&R reps, music attorneys and other industry pros nationwide. To enquire about a review for your band in 2015, check out http://musicconnection.com/reviews/get-reviewed.
Each Artist below is listed in alphabetical order and includes the following: Artist Name, Genre, Hometown and Website. - Music Connection

Taylor Locke has been in his fair share of bands in the past, in Taylor Locke and The Roughs, Rooney and now a solo artist. He releases his first fully solo track, ‘Time Stands Still’, premiering exclusively through Spindle today(!!!). Plus the new single has a free download from Soundcloud. I see your fingers twitching towards that download button already…
Taylor Locke is an LA born and bred musician who’s been in the biz since 1999. Despite the title of his new track, ‘Time Stands Still’ acts as a testament to Locke’s musical growth over his career. What a beautiful way to honor it. And for 3:49 minutes, you’ll be the one standing still in slight awe at the soothing sounds of Taylor’s voice.
Enjoy it for yourself anytime, anywhere, any country, any time zone, any anything with a free download. - Spindle Magazine

Taylor Locke is the sound of the new Wild West. Midnight cowgirls and cowboys alike shake to the rattlesnake rhythm in underground venues in LA’s Silver Lake. Taylor Lock is not a country rock band, though, more like glam, echoing canyons, and a shot of whiskey. Their sound has been permeating over social networking sites in anticipation of their debut release, Time Stands Still, October 13th.

In front of an intimate crowd at Silver Lake’s underground spot, El Cid, Taylor Locke brought a classic rock vibe that’s been missing for many desert moons.

Initially known as Rooney under Geffen Records, Taylor, since has formed an entirely new ensemble composed of seven members. Now it feels like 1969, again. Their full sound is also attributed to guitarist Kyle Fredrickson, Ben Lecourt on drums, Art Webb on electric piano, and Joe Guese on bass. The sugar on top is a dose of birds, Shay Astar and Grace Kelly, on backup vocals.

The stylish, starlit “Running Away from Love” is an attribute to the neo – seventies ballad. Listen to “Call me Kuchu” on Soundcloud for glimmering guitars and drops of chords that will give listeners the rustic sound of a band running on high octane gasoline.

Be sure to check LA Weekly and their Facebook Page (Taylor Locke Music) for their upcoming shows. Subsequently, check out Taylor Locke in “Rumours: The Ultimate Fleetwood Mac Tribute Show” as the Lindsey Buckingham impersonator.

More of their music can be heard at SoundCloud.

Several of their shows have been brewing around East Los Angeles, so be sure to check them out. Don’t forget to wear those old blue jeans, because Taylor Locke is playing. - MusikFace

Eight tracks to rock you directly in the head

This week, we've got a band celebrating 50 years in the business, another releasing their first single in over 30 years, a third releasing their second, and a fourth who party hard, wear wigs, and pay tribute to Hollywood glam. And that's just half of what's on show. - Classic Rock

Taylor Locke “Time Stands Still”

This year we find Taylor Locke (Rooney) going in a slightly different direction with his solo album, as opposed to his work with The Roughs. We hear a more of a singer-songwriter vibe than the colorful rocker of the past. And Locke still has that amazing talent for melody, plus his guitar prowess just keeps getting better. With that, “Burbank Woman” is an understated opening with an early ‘70s acoustic flavor and it follows the albums theme about a crumbling relationship with a distant partner.

“The Game” follows that musical template, so fans of America, The Eagles and Firefall will definitely enjoy this. The big single here is “Running Away From Love” and it showcases Taylor’s tight composition and brilliant songwriting. The swirling guitar riffs that lead “So Long,” recalls his previous work with The Roughs. “Call Me Kuchu” has a bluesy pop riff, reminding me of Ian Lloyd a little and the sweet storytelling on “The Art of Moving On’ goes into what it takes to get over a fresh break-up. Then the gentle ballad “No Dice” dovetails right into this picture. This is a quality album that stands as more a personal statement from Taylor, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. - Power Popaholic

You may know Taylor Locke as the former guitarist and founding member of the well known group Rooney. Make no mistake about it, Taylor has distanced himself and is on a mission to make his mark as a solo artist. Taylor Locke’s music still encompasses that retro sound, however his new single, “Running Away From Love” is full of fun melodies that you can’t help but sing a long with. Taylor continues to spread his music throughout the Los Angeles area and was even mentioned in Music Connection Magazine as one of the Top 100 hot unsigned live artists. The new album is out now featuring the hit single “Running Away From Love” out now on Lojinx Records.

WEBSITE

CONTACT:

mooreaneesah@gmail.com - The A&R Radar

Today's free song comes courtesy of Taylor Locke. The multi-instrumentalist has been a staple in the Los Angeles music scene since 1999, co-founding and playing guitar for Rooney and later forming Taylor Locke and the Roughs. Now, he's embarked as a solo artist and recently released his debut album, Time Stands Still. We're excited to offer up the jangly indie-pop jam, "So Long." Stream and download the infectious track above.

"Greetings Cowboys, Fly Girls, Killjoys, Homeboys, Valley Girls, Material Girls, Game Boys, Boy-Toys and Beach Boys!" Locke exlaims. "I invite you to take advantage of this free download of my tune 'So Long." It appears on my latest record, and first as a solo artist, entitled Time Stands Still (Lojinx Records UK). This particular cut is a throwback to some of my earliest influences, as well as some new sounds that grabbed my ears at the time of recording. It's a breezy rocker in waltz-time, with romantic longing at it's core. If your earbuds are tasting Harry Nilsson, Marshall Crenshaw, Haim, That Dog, The Beach Boys and even a little Olivia Newton-John Grease in your flavor profile, then I'll admit that mine are too. Enjoy."

Time Stands Still is out now and available through iTunes. SoCal readers, Taylor Locke has a few local shows coming up. Check out the full list below. - PureVolume

Ex Rooney guitarist Taylor Locke has with his The Taylor Locke Band released two albums cool. They are not as good as Rooney, but worth checking out if you like modern power pop. His first solo album Time Stand Still is, however, a positive surprise and offers a very nice collection of tracks. On its own, he is more singer-songwriter oriented, but has not released the 70's touch as he had throughout his career. Tracks like "The Game" and "Running Away From Love" is incredibly charming that takes you direct sunny California. Even the James Taylor fragrant "The Art of the Moving" are worth checking up on this nice and positive record from Taylor Locke. - Melodic

As a co-founder of band Rooney during a pivotal moment in the LA music scene in 1999 and latterly Taylor Locke and the Roughs in 2009, Taylor Locke has earned a well-respected place among the giants of the early 21st century, sharing rosters with Weezer, Jane's Addiction, and Queens of the Stone Age and latterly The Strokes, OK Go and Audioslave.

The LA guitarist and songwriter's début solo album Time Stands Still, is a vignette that stands testament to the evolution and growth of his music over the years. A tastefully eclectic blend of inspirations are apparent from the outset, modern edged pop-rock with undeniable roots in both contemporary and traditional Americana, and more than the odd tip of the cap to his 60's and 70's influences.

Burbank Woman, offers a slice of Americana-edged pop rock in the form of a bitter-sweet love song drenched with lap steel wailings and gentle fingerpicked guitar work. The introduction of the drums with its creeping pace allow for a lot of space in the ensemble harmonically and serve to add to the thoughtfulness of album's opening track.

The Game, with its laid back southern rock attitude and Running Away From Love with its more upbeat, pop-edge flavour both serve to invoke images of the warm west coast sun and all the freedom, fun and trouble a young man can get himself into under it.

Don't Be A Stranger is a catchy and upbeat pop-rock track. A rich and harmonious instrumentation and simple-yet-catchy riff work help make this an enjoyable listen, but it just doesn't seem to stand out as boldly as other tracks on the album.

At the very heart of the album is the quite brilliant So Long, drawing you in with its immediacy, wonderful swung rhythm and fuzzy overtone melodies. A smart and contained piece, with charming melodic hooks and an undeniably catchy chorus that is sure to make this a favourite with audiences.

The titular track, Time Stands Still, is a stark contrast to the energy of So Long. A reserved and retrospective ballad detailing reflections on his life as a performer. The piece is deliciously seasoned with wide-stereo keys riffs and adorable glockenspiel delicacies.

Call Me Kuchu, returns us to the realms of higher energy, with its foot stomping rhythm and classic rock and roll styling that go to prove Locke's ability to shift tastefully from heartfelt ballad to rock and roll blinder. With a certain something, somewhat reminiscent of Abbey Road era Beatles, it still manages to sit far removed from simple derivation. Locke has always struck me as a man who's not afraid to display his influences proudly while weaving his very own distinctive style. The addictive and driving chorus is still stuck in my head to this moment.

Next track, The Art of Moving On follows an emerging loud-quiet dynamic of the album's heart with a touching vignette detailing the familiar story of moving on from failed love. Lyrically this is one of my favourites on the album, sincere and constrained but harbouring clever phrasing and rhythm throughout.

A slight break from the albums dynamic, Going, Going, Gone, is a distinctly west-coast rock ballad, and another reflection of the trials and tribulations of life's speedbumps and dead ends this time performed through a more melancholic lens perhaps.

Album closer No Dice is a stripped back and traditional sounding acoustic piece, with lashings of perfect duet harmony and illustrious wordplay. A warm and gentle-paced burn, No Dice, serves it's role at album's end nicely and rounds out a fantastic and eclectic first solo Album.

A fresh perspective from a performer over half way through his second decade of life on stage, Time Stands Still is a great mixture of influences that is easy to access and easy to love.

(Ash Turner) - SRCZ Magazine

It might seem a bit early (or late) to start discussing summery sun-drenched pop but in spite of the current state of British weather indie label Lojinx has decided to release Taylor Locke’s debut album, Time Stands Still.

Running Away from Love, Locke’s first single off the album, is an upbeat indie-swing anthem. With a song writing style similar to that of Carole King the classic chord progression and colourful backing vocals are pleasingly cheery. Accompanied by an “interesting” video, you can tell that when Locke put the key into the ignition of his motorized armchair he must have known he was on to a good thing. Being chased by a naked woman and sipping mimosas are only the cherry on top of his musical cake.

So Long and Time Stands Still are similarly brimming with sunshine and although not all the tracks on the album are optimistic, it isn’t too hard to be sickened by the overwhelmingly positive sound of Locke’s music – in a good way. Even more reflective and conscientious moments, The Game and Going, Going, Gone are relished with a happiness which verges on the hazardous side of disturbing. However, Locke’s assurance gives the album a youthful emotional curve and genuinely invigorating outlook in site of the risk of crossing the line into overzealous drivel.

So we might not see a blue sky again until July, who cares? Listen to Time Stands Still by Taylor Locke and you’ll soon feel the heat from that West Coast LA sun.

Taylor Locke – Time Stands Still 7/10

Review by John Vallis. Twitter: @JohnSVallis - Nuit Magazine

Taylor Locke's debut solo album, Time Stands Still, is a powerful mix of pop, alternative rock, classical rock, and has been critically acclaimed by Classical Rock Magazine as 'the new sound of west coast rock'.

Personally, I find some of the singles on this album are too short and choppy, and some are very similar to other songs on the album. However, Locke's music also contains calming ballads carefully balanced with exciting and fun moods entwined through the album. I find this range of little texture and soft music to thick texture in his songs entertaining as you listen. Nonetheless, many of Locke's songs, I feel, are too drawn out and lack energy in parts.

I think this album has a slight absence of originality. Additionally, it does not vary as much as I would like it to as it moves through each song. Despite this, Taylor Locke has definitely got a fresh, new and upcoming talent as some of his songs are pleasing to listen to.

facebook.com/taylorlockemusic

twitter.com/iamtaylorlocke - Wicid Stuff

A few notes of electric piano and semi-distant slide guitar stamps Time Stands Still with the hallmarks of a West Coast album with a whole heap of promise. The opening track of Time Stands Still, “Burbank Woman”, was my first experience of the music of Taylor Locke and by the end of the song, I was a Taylor Locke fan. With Locke’s gently yearning vocal, resigned lyrics of unrequited love, yet mature emotional restraint, backed with a gentle rolling shuffle drum beat, “Burbank Woman” is a classy way to open any album.

As the guitar player of Rooney, Locke has been a fixture of American Powerpop scene since the start of the last decade. Time Stands Still is his solo debut, and it makes for one hell of a calling card, as it confirms without doubt that he’s capable of genuinely great things, and the work of a man who is a master of his craft, effortlessly drawing influences from the same deep well as the likes of Crowded House and Brendan Benson.

Lead single, “Running Away From Love”, is Time Stands Still’s unashamedly commercial moment. This is undoubtedly a good thing, because the whole point of Powerpop is to be catchy as hell, which is something that “Running Away From Love” has etched throughout, from its upbeat bouncy rhythm, Locke’s joyous vocal and a blast of bright guitar. This musical optimism is at odds with the lyrics, but this is a feature throughout Time Stands Still that makes it such a genuinely great album. The underlying theme of a soured relationship informs the lyrics of the majority of songs, but that in no way means that it’s a downbeat listen, as Locke’s vocals and the tunes lend the whole album a feeling of optimism.

Another strength of Time Stands Still is its relative brevity – at under 33 minutes it certainly doesn’t hang about. A lesser talent may have been tempted to pad the album out with more songs, but Locke is smart enough to know that ten fully realised songs are preferable to fifteen pretty good tunes which outstay their welcome. This level of care and attention means that the ten tracks that make up Time Stands Still are diverse examples of pop rock, but of uniformly good quality, with even with a relatively introverted number like the title track sounding like a mini masterpiece.

Riffing rocker “Call Me Kuchu” is the centerpiece of the second half of Time Stands Still, but it doesn’t dominate preceedings to the point where it over-shadows the rest of the songs. An irresitable mid-paced number, it has a slightly threatening feel that hints that Locke has the potential to unleash the unrepentant rock beast on the live stage should the mood take him.

As previously mentioned, the majority of Time Stands Still seems informed by failed relationships, nowhere more so than on the gorgeous “The Art of Moving On”, an almost embarrasingly accurate analysis of how most modern males react when a well established relationship comes to an end. It’s this grounding in universal truths which proves to be one of the hidden strengths of Time Stands Still, as there’s a genuineness to Locke that only the very best msucians seem capable of.

Time Stands Still is an album that genuienly took me by surprise. On intial listen, it’s a refreshingly straightforward blast of Powerpop, but repeated plays continue to reveal additional layers that were not previosuly so obvious, the result of which is that after a dozen or so plays of this album, my respect for the talent of Taylor Locke has continued to expanded exponentially.

After years of being just out of the spotlight Powerpop’s new hero has taken centre-stage, and you know something? He’s utterly brilliant. - Backseat Mafia

Lojinx Music - March 3, 2015
CD Review by Edwin van Hoof

Taylor Locke released his first solo album in March 2015 after the demise of his bands Rooney (4 albums on Geffen Records), and Taylor Locke & The Roughs. Now don't expect the typical singer-songwriter album from Locke who is stubbornly following his very own path packed with intimate melodic tracks as well as rocking tunes which have a sincere band feeling. The outcome is as diverse as it is entertaining.
"Running away from Love" is one of those rock infested tunes that breathe a band vibe. It's swinging up the joint without lacking the typical feeling singer songwriters manage to add. This is a free spirit approach found on album by such greats as Mr. Bob Dylan or Paul McCartney. It's that overwhelming atmosphere created when focusing on a song only a songwriter himself manages; "Don't be a Stranger" is another one of those tracks breathing energy.

Locke guarded the overall sound bringing in a full band to evoke his musical dreams and intentions. It adds up perfectly to Locke's voice providing an organic tension within the songs. A sonic rendition without lacking the acoustic outings, the genre is mainly known for. "Time Stands Still", the title track, has that mesmerizing campfire surrounding. It's timid and intimate perfectly highlighting the vulnerable lyrics of Taylor. The song has a nice vocal edge brought to the plate by the sweet backing vocals, going close harmony with Locke on the chorus lines and bridge. "The Art of Moving on" rimples the still water as it is a poetic chant of an ended relationship. The guitar pulls the song forward in silence much as the intension of the lyrics is. A slide guitar breaks the quiet mood set and makes the song bloom as a ray of sunlight on a dark day.

"Call me Kuchu" hints the Beatles with a sonic (late) 60's action packed sound; gloomy and taunting Hammond pumping up the tenacity whilst the guitar is steered from the mixing desk in a clear vibrant way slightly distorted by the effects. The choirs are powerful and add up to the dense psychedelic atmosphere, giving it the extra kick making this a stand out song. It that typical Lennon/McCartney vibe also present in the trimmed down "Burbank Woman" and the catchy "Going, Going, Gone". The vocal lines and choir interaction are breathing the grandeur of the Fab Four. "No Dice" is another one of those excellent warm and fuzzy melodic outings. The song instantly nests in your head due to its humming underscore and catchy hook.
"Time Stands Still" features everything to comfort fans of well-crafted melodic songs on a cold winter day. It is the soundtrack for a campfire without lacking the punch to get your feet off the floor occasionally. Locke's voice is appealing and perfectly adding up to his lyrical storylines. Locke shifts shape and surprises with this wide varied album consisting of irresistible melodies and mellow arrangements on gorgeous songs. It's also the last album which features contributions of Locke's late friend, the iconic Kim Fowley.

86 / 100

Taylor Locke is currently streaming his album at TeamRock.


- Read the full story at UnRatedMagazine.com
Adam Zubowicz at 1:27 PM - Unrated Magazine

Regardless of genre, good music is good music, and Taylor Locke’s latest, Time Stands Still, which was released on February 23rd, is just that: a record you shouldn’t let pass by your ears... - The Daily Country

Whilst the name, Taylor Locke,may not be familiar to you, he is no newcomer to music, having been part of the LA Music scene since 1999. In fact he had a fair bit of success, although not as much as he deserved, as the co-founder and lead guitarist of Rooney. This is his first release as a solo artist and comes with the added intrigue of knowing inspiration for the title comes from a folder of lyrics given to Taylor by the legendary Kim Fowley.
Opening number “Burbank Women” is a slow, mid paced song which is a gentle intro to the album. Compared to that slow burner, “The Game” has an instant attraction. It’s a pure adult pop song with an almost seventies feel to it. The sound will just have you dreaming of beautiful, sunny, summer days. Equally as bright, but even faster paced, is “Running Away From Love” which is a huge power pop number. - The Soul Of A Clown

Los Angeles native and former Rooney lead guitarist Taylor Locke’s first solo album ‘Time Stands Still’ finds Locke somewhat at odds with his newly-appointed singer/songwriter status. After spending 10 years with Rooney and two more with his side project Taylor Locke and the Roughs, he is a bit uncomfortable working outside the context of a band, as he explains in the press release for ‘Time Stands Still’: “I think the term ‘singer/songwriter’ sadly evokes a white guy in a coffee shop strumming a fucking G-chord all day. I think this record sounds more like a band record…the band just takes occasional smoke breaks.”

True to Locke’s description, the album alternates between sparsely arranged acoustic ballads and the West Coast guitar rock sound of acts like Jackson Browne or Dawes. In fact, as I listened to ‘Time Stands Still’, I was strongly reminded of Dawes, particularly by the similarity between Locke’s singing voice and that of Dawes frontman Taylor Goldsmith. While not one of my favorite bands, Dawes do have their moments of brilliance, and so it is with Taylor Locke as well.

One of those brilliant moments is the opening track to ‘Time Stands Still’, ‘Burbank Woman’. It’s another one in a long and timeworn list of songs about the contradictions of the feminine mystique, but its lyrics manage to sidestep the usual clichés, as in the chorus: “she knew something that she didn’t say / deep in her heart there was a valley and no freeway to get there / never mind the miles of my persistence / she was gonna keep me at a distance”.

Unfortunately, those clichés catch up with Locke before the album progresses much further. Second track ‘The Game’ is an extended gambling metaphor, using stale poker jargon to describe a turbulent romance. Trite lyrics also plague the album’s first single ‘Running Away From Love’, whose bland musical arrangement and backing vocals would make qualify it as perfect material for the muzak in a department store. - There Goes The Fear

Historically known for its spiked cocktails of sunshine pop and desert-dwelling psychedelia, the west-coast scene has rarely sounded so, well, resolutely British, thanks to ex-frontman of Rooney Taylor Locke‘s stomp-box-sustained salute to The Beatles’ Come Together that is Call Me Kuchu. - Q The Music

Time Stands Still is Taylor Locke’s solo effort, and what a little marvel it is! With its irresistible blend of Americana, classic rock and catchy pop, the ten songs offer a work that is as confident as it is refreshing and inspired.

Up until now, the LA-based singer/songwriter is perhaps best know as the ex frontman of his band Rooney, followed by Taylor Locke & The Roughs. But now Locke has decided to take the path of the lone cowboy, and if ‘Time Stands Still’ is anything to go by, that path should lead into the right direction.

Opener ‘Burbank Woman’ is a gentle and harmonious ballad about an encounter with the lady of the song’s title, and clever lyrics “Deeper in her heart there was a valley and no freeway to get there / never mind my persistence / she was gonna keep me at a distance.” A gently plucked guitar and a voice filled with both longing and acceptance make this a beautiful love song.
‘The Game’ steps into the tracks of smooth west coast rock, while ‘Running Away From Love’ is much more pop-orientated. It’s a carefree and radio-friendly feel that evokes the spirit if freedom and having fun in the sun. There is a slight Tom Petty vibe to be noticed in ‘Don’t Be A Stranger’ and that can’t be a bad thing. Catchy riffs and an overall laid-back feel (aside from a heavier guitar solo mid-way) turn this into another winner.

‘So Long’ is one of the best tracks on the album. An irresistible and penetrating melody that reminds a little of The Cars and a chorus that will stay in the collective mind should make this an audience favourite. Quite in contrast stands title track ‘Time Stands Still’. This ballad-style song is a very personal reflection of the artist on his journey through life, emphasised through Ben Shaker’s Glockenspiel.

‘Call Me Kuchu’ shakes you out of reflection mode courtesy of a dynamic rock sound and its addictive chorus. The instruments here work together particularly well – we’re talking guitars, drums, organ, electric piano and bass. It’s a right little scorcher and shows that Locke can easily slide from soft to rough-edged.

One of the most beautiful tracks on the album is ‘The Art Of Moving On’ – a rather self-explanatory title about a failed relationship. The song is full of advise from the artist on best how to deal with it, without falling into the cliché of schmaltzing things up. The next track ‘Going Going Gone’ is another reflection on all things that turn life upside down, though here the chosen musical arrangement is distinct easy-going west coast rock.
Closing track ‘No Dice’ is harmony pure, and an exercise in effective word-smithery. When Locke sings, “There’s demons inside me I’m trying to chase / you told me that I’d pay the price / no dice” it is personal but at the same time neutral enough for the listener to weave their own interpretations into the song.

Something tells me that following the release of his debut album time won’t stand still for Taylor Locke but that things will in fact move very fast indeed – steering towards a tour and another solo album! - Music News

Track by Track Review

Burbank Woman
The lyrical story he weaves into the hypnotic drum and guitar rhythm makes the listener feel like they are there.

The Game

Relaxed romantic tune with a attitude. Another tune with a lyrical story to match to style of tune.

Running Away From Love

High tempo, high fun and extremely catchy. One of the standout tracks from a packed album.

Don’t be a Stranger

The breakup song of the romance songs. Didnt quite hit the nerve.

So Long

The intro makes the listener think it is an older tune – in a good way. Another standout.

“You keep me waiting while your hesitating..”

Time stands Still

This is the slowdown take a breather song. Slow pace but not quite a love song ballad.



Call Me Kuchu

More instruments than most of the other tracks. More layering of sound with a catchy chorus section. It adds a different style to a good album.

The Art of Moving On

The Heartbeat sounds of the drums to echo the sounds of the hearty lyrics. “The art of moving on” – good idea.



Going, Going, Gone

The solemn song to end the love story. The feelings of love have gone but the story moves on.



Conclusions

An Album which shows off catchy tunes and lyrics to a level un-expected. The audience may keep “running faster” but to the tunes that can match the speed of the run.

The balance of the album is good as well, it hits the right beats at the right times. “The Art of Moving on” folowing on by Going, Going, Gone – shows off the down

It has high variety and offers high standards of tune and lyrics. If your tastes need a good vocal story to its songs, this album will hit it.



For More Info –

Taylor Locke – Facebook / Twitter - Erisea Magazine

Hankering for some '70s MOR or '90s west-coast harmonic-rock? Well if you've ever been turned on by The Eagles, Jellyfish, Phoenix or Tom Petty, you might 'get' ex-Rooney frontman Locke whose take on sleepy retro-pop is altogether more refreshing than a title such as Time Stands Still may initially suggest.

With the aforementioned Rooney being of similar stoned-out indie-rock, some US, some Brit-influenced, it's hardly surprising to stumble across a superb slice of radio-chummy surf-pop such as Running Away From Love. Not unlike Wake Up Boo by Boo Radleys crossed with Oh Lori by the Alessi Brothers, RAFL is unashamedly leap-up-in-the-air stuff and isn't a million metres away from the rest of this agreeable album.

And the 'hits' keep on a-coming. Burbank Woman references the West Coast in the title (home of Warner Brothers, doncha know) and proffers lap steel guitar and Wurlitzer in abundance, while the woozy Going Going Gone recalls James Taylor and the like. The Game is sophisticated downtown soul-rock with a reflective bent and must-hear Don't Be A Stranger completes a quartet of memorable little gems.

There's no hurry with Locke, that's for certain. Apart from the single, we're talking top-down convertible music, rather than bottoms-up party music. As an album, there's plenty to revel in if Stateside songwriters with a hint of Brit float your boat. - Flipside Reviews

LA based singer/songwriter Taylor Locke is well loved on the music scene, particularly as being the front man of his band Rooney and soon after Taylor Locke & The Roughs; now the singer is branching out as a solo artist for the very first time, to put the ball in motion he’s releasing his debut album Time Stands Still. The British Invasion era springs to mind when listening to both of Taylor’s groups, each reminiscent of bands such as The Beatles and The Cars; will we hear such influences flowing through his solo work? The answer begins as a ‘yes’ to the previous question, Burbank Woman has somewhat of a Paul McCartney vibe to it, you can definitely imagine The Beatles coming out with a track that is so vocally intact and light-hearted; the sound Taylor Locke seems to have gone for is perfect, The Game is different from the former but still falls into place, his delivery is spot on. Lead single Running Away From Love is a fun and catchy number, the keys help to make it bouncy and that consistent beat keeps you captivated, the ideal candidate to give listeners a first taste of solo Taylor; Don’t Be A Stranger also has a memorable melody, the electric guitars in this one are what sells the track to you. The introduction to So Long is wonderful, when the verse kicks in it feels like we’re being taken back to the 70s or 80s for a number in a smash hit movie musical, it’s so perfectly put together with its addictive melody and interesting arrangement. Title track Time Stands Still is nice little guitar ballad, its chorus shows a more vulnerable tone to Taylor’s voice and really appeals to you, it gives an insight to Locke’s growth throughout his fruitful career and personal development; Call Me Kuchu is punchy, Locke really can rock it out when he wants to, just like John Lennon he doesn’t hold back his rough side as it’s just as enticing as his smoother tone. The Art of Moving On is poetically delivered and successfully conceived, he basically suggests ways to move on from a previously troubled and ended relationship, advice we can all take every once in a while; Going, Going, Gone is another catchy track you’ll find yourself humming along to, an art Locke has perfected with this album. The warm hum of the guitar brings us into the melodically accomplished No Dice, the final track on the album, which sees it out on a comfortable note. Taylor Locke has achieved wonders with Time Stands Still, he has such a beautiful sound going for him and he should run with it and see where it takes him next; although this is his solo debut, Locke has been hard and at it since 1999 and it really shows in the quality of his music and lyrics, which together make a stunning power couple. You could definitely hear elements of The Beatles/John Lennon in many of the tracks, influences he could easily cite as he writes with that era in mind; to sum it up, Time Stands Still really grabs you and is a great fusion of pop/folk/rock that makes you want to hear it all again, just stunning. - See more at: http://renownedforsound.com/index.php/album-review-taylor-locke-time-stands-still/#sthash.Ah6JBFeM.dpuf - Renowned For Sound

Taylor Locke
Time Stands Still
Out Now
title track from album out Feb 23 2015 (Lojinx Recordings)

Grab your free copy of the single ‘Time Stands Still’ here.

Allow yourself to be taken in by the dreamy, dulcet tones of this Californian style country sonnet that twists together luscious melodies with a hint of harsh truth.

It’s a track that’s especially poignant following the death of Kim Fowley, the track’s co-writer and famed LA producer and Svengali, last month, following a battle with cancer.

Locke says – ‘The last time (Fowley) was out and about without a wheelchair (he) brought me a present…it was a folder of unfinished lyrics, mostly hand-written, hand-picked for me from his vault. He told me they were mine to do what I wanted with. Suddenly I had my hands full with a new project. He twisted my arm into making my first solo album.’ - Chickens Are Dinosaurs

After LA rockers Rooney called it a day, Taylor Locke kicked around in tribute acts. Then he met Kim Fowley, and recorded one of the Califiornian rock albums of the year
We’ve all been there, when a relationship you’ve spent years devoting yourself to splutters to a halt. It’s a confusing, disorientating time. In Taylor Locke’s case he was dealing with the demise of Rooney, the LA-based five piece he played guitar in for over a decade. Looking and sounding like a West Coast version of the Strokes, they were pretty, had good hair and major label backing, but somehow it never worked out, and after their last album in 2010 Rooney went on ‘indefinite hiatus’.

Want to read the full article?

http://www.teamrock.com/features/2015-02-04/taylor-locke-the-new-sound-of-west-coast-rock - Teamrock

Forget the winter blues and watch this charming video to accompany ‘Running Away From’, an uplifting alt-pop gem from Mischa Barton’s ex, LA troubadour Taylor Locke. The video features Taylor as Big Lebowski’s ‘The Dude’ style, getting around and running his life comfortably from his special “couch car” (butler and a naked woman running not included) - Fame Magazine

Known as the former guitarist for L.A.-based indie rockers Rooney, Taylor Locke released a solo LP earlier this year. Titled Time Stands Still, Locke showcases a songwriting prowess that fans of his former band may not have realized. Today, we're excited to premiere the latest video off that album. "Call Me Kuchu" is styled as an old fashioned movie, but don't let the fun vibes fool you. The song's serious tenor is played down by the imagery, which is something that Locke intended.

“The challenge was to respect the serious nature of the song, but without illustrating the lyrical content too literally," Locke says of the video. "I wanted to walk the line between having fun, but also acknowledging the matter at hand. I hope people will be entertained and drawn in by the look of the video, but also take a close listen to whats going on under the surface."

Taylor Locke's Time Stands Still was released earlier this year. -

Taylor Locke (ex-Rooney) just premiered his brand new music video, “Call Me Kuchu” on Purevolume. The track, from Locke’s new solo album, Time Stands Still, showcases Locke’s lyrical prowess beautifully.

“Call Me Kuchu” is soulful, and reminiscent of classic rock. Inspired by the documentary of the same name, the song and video come together in a stunning metaphor. The film shed light on the lack of basic human rights in Uganda, where being gay is considered criminal. The music video, directed by art/editorial photographer Logan White, acts as a satire, featuring Dr. Kuchu, a turn-of-the-century magician and snake oil profiteer, who is a metaphor for the…let’s call them “misguided,” self-deluded politicians and religious zealots. Edited by Emmy-nominated Dakota Solt (who plays Dr. Kuchu’s assistant), the video is something you just have to see.

“The challenge was to respect the serious nature of the song, but without illustrating the lyrical content too literally. I wanted to walk the line between having fun, but also acknowledging the matter at hand,” shares Locke, who developed the concept and script alongside Saxon Brice, regarding the inspiration behind the video for “Call Me Kuchu.” “I hope people will be entertained and drawn in by the look of the video, but also take a close listen to what’s going on under the surface.”
Have a look at the video below and let us know what you think! - LivLostInStereo

Taylor Locke (ex-Rooney) just premiered his brand new music video, “Call Me Kuchu” on Purevolume. The track, from Locke’s new solo album, Time Stands Still, showcases Locke’s lyrical prowess beautifully.

“Call Me Kuchu” is soulful, and reminiscent of classic rock. Inspired by the documentary of the same name, the song and video come together in a stunning metaphor. The film shed light on the lack of basic human rights in Uganda, where being gay is considered criminal. The music video, directed by art/editorial photographer Logan White, acts as a satire, featuring Dr. Kuchu, a turn-of-the-century magician and snake oil profiteer, who is a metaphor for the…let’s call them “misguided,” self-deluded politicians and religious zealots. Edited by Emmy-nominated Dakota Solt (who plays Dr. Kuchu’s assistant), the video is something you just have to see.

“The challenge was to respect the serious nature of the song, but without illustrating the lyrical content too literally. I wanted to walk the line between having fun, but also acknowledging the matter at hand,” shares Locke, who developed the concept and script alongside Saxon Brice, regarding the inspiration behind the video for “Call Me Kuchu.” “I hope people will be entertained and drawn in by the look of the video, but also take a close listen to what’s going on under the surface.”
Have a look at the video below and let us know what you think! - LivLostInStereo

Known as the former guitarist for L.A.-based indie rockers Rooney, Taylor Locke released a solo LP earlier this year. Titled Time Stands Still, Locke showcases a songwriting prowess that fans of his former band may not have realized. Today, we're excited to premiere the latest video off that album. "Call Me Kuchu" is styled as an old fashioned movie, but don't let the fun vibes fool you. The song's serious tenor is played down by the imagery, which is something that Locke intended.

“The challenge was to respect the serious nature of the song, but without illustrating the lyrical content too literally," Locke says of the video. "I wanted to walk the line between having fun, but also acknowledging the matter at hand. I hope people will be entertained and drawn in by the look of the video, but also take a close listen to whats going on under the surface."

Taylor Locke's Time Stands Still was released earlier this year. -