SINGLE REVIEW: "HANGING ON A LIE" - STRIKING MATCHES

SINGLE: "Hanging on a Lie"

ARTIST: Striking Matches

REVIEWER: Alyse Smith

Follow Alyse on Twitter at @ASmith1300

Striking Matches is the newest male-female duo to hit Nashville. The duo consists of Sarah Zimmerman and Justin Davis. They’ve burst onto the scene, gleaning across the pond recognition as well as tons of stateside love. They’ve had multiple songs featured on the show “Nashville” performed and released by the show’s lead characters. That gained them a sold-out London show as well as prominence in the USA. Their latest single “Hanging On A Lie” was one of the songs featured on “Nashville” so if you’re an avid watcher of the show you may have already heard them and wondered who this magnificent duo was and where you could get more of them! The answer is here and many, many places given their active touring schedule and upcoming debut album release.

They’re planning an incredible European tour and already have out a self-titled EP out available on Spotify.

“Hanging On A Lie” showcases smoky vocals from Zimmerman and impressive complementary vocals from Davis, the plucked strings indicate a funkier sound than is usually heard in mainstream country today. Perhaps that is one of the factors in their whirlwind soon to be worldwide success. A cheating, lying song that speaks of torn-through hearts and poisoned lips and references to Steve McQueen, the creativity in “Hanging On A Lie” does not disappoint. Many elements present in this song and nary a one that does not work on a superb level, be it the writing, singing or instrumental portion. Striking Matches has already gained so much success and I can’t wait to see them gain so much more and to see where they go from here.

Connect with Striking Matches online:

Official website - www.strikingmatches.com
Twitter - @StrikingMatches
Facebook - StrikingMatches
Youtube - StrikingMatchesSongs
Instagram - StrikingMatches

Striking Matches - Hanging On A Lie Web

STRIKING MATCHES ADDED TO LINEUP FOR NASHVILLE'S NEW YEARS EVE "BASH ON BROADWAY"

New country duo Striking Matches has been added to the lineup for this year's New Year’s Eve “Bash On Broadway,” in Nashville. The free concert and street party is being headlined by Hank Williams Jr and will also feature Brett Eldredge and Blackberry Smoke.

Striking Matches will start the party at 6:30 p.m., followed by the raising of a 15-ft. tall musical note. Storme Warren from GAC will host the fun between 1st and 5th Avenues, which will end with a finale including the dropping of the musical note, fireworks, and the firing of confetti cannons when the clock strikes midnight.

For more information, go to www.visitmusiccity.com/newyearseve.

MAYOR KARL DEAN AND COUNTRY STARS CASEY JAMES, SARAH DARLING AND STRIKING MATCHES HONOR MUSIC TEACHERS AT NAfME CONFERENCE

Over 3,500 Teachers, School Administrators & Students Packed Grand Ole Opry House for Inaugural Event

Left to right: Sarah Zimmermann, Justin Davis, Casey James, and Sarah Darling

Credit: Randi Radcliff

NASHVILLE, TENN. (October 28, 2013) – Last night, Sunday, Oct. 27, country music stars Casey James, Sarah Darling, Striking Matches and the city of Nashville honored music teachers nationwide for all they do to support quality music education in schools during a special concert at the Grand Ole Opry House. The concert kicked off the National Association for Music Education’s (NAfME) 2013 National In-Service Conference, which is being held now through Oct. 30 at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Nashville Mayor Karl Dean welcomed the packed house of over 3,500 concert attendees saying, “I think it’s pretty clear that a quality arts education and in particular, a quality music education, is a key component to a well-rounded, successful education program. Arts education is not a frill, it is not optional -- not if we are going to give our students the tools they need to live rich and rewarding lives.”

Rising country duo Striking Matches (Justin Davis, Sarah Zimmermann), who were signed to new label, I.R.S. Records Nashville, earlier this week kicked-off the music for the night with harmonizing vocals and blazing guitars. “This is an amazing honor for us to be here and perform for you,” said Davis. “No offense to any of my other elementary school teachers but the only name I really remember is my music teacher!”

Powerhouse vocalist Sarah Darling followed their set with her four-piece band, belting out hit single “Home To Me,” and other crowd-pleasing songs like “Ho Hey” (The Lumineers) and “Missing You,” (John Waite). Attendees filled the Grand Ole Opry House with the glow of cell phone lights during the jaw-dropping delivery of her final song, “Landslide.” She closed expressing her gratitude for NAfME honoring her with the “Stand For Music” Award earlier this year and the work of all music educators.

 American Idol finalist and headliner Casey James ended the night with an acoustic set including his hit “Crying on Her Suitcase,” to an enthused crowd who sang along to every word. “Music education is very important to me and I’m glad I can be a part of it,” he said. “I really appreciate what you all are doing for aspiring musicians.”

Outlining the vision behind the “Music Makes Us” program, which has been supported by Nashville’s music industry community, other local businesses and community leaders, Mayor Dean emphasized that cities can and should be ensuring students receive a quality music education in the schools, even in tough economic times. “What I want to leave with you is that it can be done,” he said. “Thank you for all you do in your local communities to make sure music remains a priority.” NAfME President Nancy Ditmer then presented Dean with a special award in honor of all of his work.

Pictured on the right, Artists also participated in a Q&A for students prior to the concert, answering questions they had about breaking into the music industry and the challenges of achieving long-term success.

The concert kicked-off a slew of other entertainment events to take place during NAfME’s conference this week, including a performance by more than 670 students selected as part of the All-National Honors Ensemble – the most skilled high school musicians in the country. Following Nashville At-Large City Councilman Ronnie Steine’s Keynote Address and other professional development workshops today, NAfME will host a fundraiser for their Give A Note Foundation for members at the Wildhorse Saloon tonight.

For additional program information, please visit http://inserviceconference.nafme.org.

National Association for Music Education, among the world’s largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAfME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association orchestrates success for millions of students nationwide and has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century.  With more than 70,000 members, the organization is the voice of music education in the United States. Follow NAfME on Twitter (twitter.com/nafme) and on Facebook (facebook.com/nafme).

RISING RECORDING ARTISTS AND NATIONAL ASSOCIATION FOR MUSIC EDUCATION (NAFME) SALUTE MUSIC TEACHERS

Casey James, Sarah Darling, Striking Matches and Mark Wilkinson to Perform Opening Night of 2013 NAFME National In-Service Conference at Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (October 18, 2013) – On October 27, 2013, some of music’s top new recording artists will come together at the historic Grand Ole Opry House to shine the spotlight on the work of music teachers and show their gratitude for all that educators do to spread the joy of music in our nation’s schools. The special concert will kick-off the 2013 National Association of Music Education’s (NAFME) National In-Service Conference, and admission is FREE to all conference attendees, invited guests and All-National Honor Ensemble students.

American Idol finalist and 19/Columbia Records recording artist Casey James, known for country radio hits “Let’s Don’t Call It A Night,” and “Crying On Her Suitcase,” is an advocate for access to music in schools. “I really appreciate what music teachers are doing for aspiring musicians," he said. "Music education is very important to me and I’m glad I can be a part of NAFME’s Conference."

Country music star Sarah Darling, 2013 recipient of NAFME’s "Stand for Music" Award, adds, “My 7th and 8th grade music teacher, Ms. Stephanie Rumple, was a great influence on me. It was her careful guidance and passion for the arts that started me on my musical journey. I feel like I owe her, and all of the music teachers out there who help preserve music in our schools a huge ‘thank-you’, for all they do. This concert will hopefully resonate with them as our way of showing thanks for their work that sometimes goes unrecognized!”

James and Darling will join their peers Striking Matches (MTV/VH1/CMT’s O Music Awards finalist) and Australian chart-topper Mark Wilkinson (“Middle Ground,” “All I Ever Wanted’), to perform their fan-favorite songs in an exclusive, intimate setting reserved for those who inspire students through music.

The concert at the Grand Ole Opry House is one of the many highlights planned for the four-day NAFME National In-Service Conference taking place October 27 - 30, where the main theme centers around ways in which “Music Education Orchestrates Success”— in school, in work, and in life. 

 Teachers and school administrators who attend will address the proposed re-authorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, gain new insights into how classroom teaching styles are being evaluated, attend targeted professional development workshops, and celebrate the achievements of some of the nation’s most distinguished student musicians.

For additional program information, please visit http://inserviceconference.nafme.org 

National Association for Music Education, among the world’s largest arts education organizations, is the only association that addresses all aspects of music education. NAFME advocates at the local, state, and national levels; provides resources for teachers, parents, and administrators; hosts professional development events; and offers a variety of opportunities for students and teachers. The Association orchestrates success for millions of students nationwide and has supported music educators at all teaching levels for more than a century. With more than 70,000 members, the organization is the voice of music education in the United States. Follow NAFME on Twitter ( twitter.com/nafme) and on Facebook ( facebook.com/nafme).

JERROD NIEMANN HEADLINES “YEP PRESENTS CLASSIC COUNTRY REVIVAL” AT 3RD AND LINDSLEY ON MAY 29

Additional Performers Include James Otto, Sarah Darling, Striking Matches, and More

 

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Jerrod Niemann will headline the Third Annual YEP Presents Classic Country Revival, which will take place on Wednesday, May 29, at 3rd and Lindsley. Doors open at 6:00 PM and the show begins at 7:00 PM. Tickets will go on sale today (May 7), and are $10 in advance at www.3rdandlindsley.com or $15 at the door. Additional performers will include James Otto, Sarah Darling, Striking Matches, Brinley Addington, Westbound Rangers, Two Story Road, and Ben Danaher, as well as special guests. All proceeds will be donated to the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum.

The Classic Country Revival will pay tribute to country music legends, as each artist will perform two songs that were originally made famous by inductees into the Country Music Hall of Fame. The event aims to promote the history of the artists enshrined in the Country Music Hall of Fame to a younger generation.

“The artists inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame created the foundation that our industry is built on,” said Marc Rucker, Crush Management Nashville and a member of the Board of Directors for the Young Entertainment Professionals Network (YEP). “We want to pay tribute to them and make sure their legacy is remembered and revered for generations to come. Accordingly, we’ll be donating the proceeds from this event to the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.”

Sea Gayle Records/Arista Nashville recording artist Niemann earned a nomination for the CMA New Artist of the Year Award in 2010 on the strength of his first major label album, Judge Jerrod & the Hung Jury, which debuted at No. 1. His hits include “What Do You Want,” “One More Drinkin’ Song,” “Shinin’ on Me,” and the No. 1 smash “Lover, Lover.” Niemann’s current album is Free the Music. For more info, please visit www.jerrodniemannofficial.com.
 

RING IN NEW YEARS EVE WITH LOVE AND THEFT, STRIKING MATCHES AND MORE LIVE FROM MUSIC CITY

Don't miss this year's event. It just gets bigger and better every year! 

The event starts with the all-new Family Hour, 7-8pm, with Lennon & Maisy Stella (Connie Britton's daughters on "Nashville"), raising of the Music Note, fireworks, and more! 

The Fray, Sixpence None the Richer, Love and Theft, and Striking Matches take the stage for the main event. Count down to midnight for the Music Note Drop®, fireworks, and confetti cannons! 

Send off 2012 with a bang and start out 2013 the right way - the Music City way!

Don't worry about driving on New Year's Eve - book a vacation package that includes a hotel of your choice and transportation from Grand Avenue.

Can't make it but still want to experience Music City on the last day of the year? The entire show will stream live HERE! Tune in 6:30pm-12:30am on December 31.

GO HERE FOR ALL THINGS NEW YEARS EVE IN NASHVILLE - ALL THE DETAILS YOU NEED TO GET THROUGH THE NIGHT!

NEW ARTIST TO KEEP YOUR EARS ON: STRIKING MATCHES

Sarah Zimmermann and Josh Davis, who make up the new duo Striking Matches, are outstanding! Why has it taken us so long to catch wind of them. Keep an ear out for this duo, they are gonna be a household name especially after their music is featured in the new hit ABC series, Nashville, this season. Haven't heard which song yet, but they're definitely in there! Go pick up their debut self-titled EP on iTunes now!

PURCHASE EP ON iTUNES HERE

MUSIC CITY NEW YEAR'S EVE BASH ON BROADWAY

Ring in 2013 and rock out 2012  with your closest friends, family and neighbors at Nashville’s New Year’s Eve party on Lower Broadway. Bring your party hats, party horns, and New Years resolutions and come prepared to make some noise. Count down to the evening's end with fireworks, kissing whoever and a midnight "Music Note Drop®"!

THE FRAY, SIXPENCE NONE THE RICHER, LOVE AND THEFT, AND STRIKING MATCHES WILL BE PLAYING THIS YEAR.

The FREE downtown street party starts at 7:00 on New Year’s Eve. So, come out and celebrate the Music City way.

Just a "note": they will be dropping a 15-foot-tall red music note to kick off the new year. The "Music Note Drop®" will descend 115 feet to trigger a fireworks display and major confetti cannons at midnight!