CINDY ALEXANDER: Smash

Cindy Alexander

Smash

© 2003 JamCat Publishing/BMI (685481010320)

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Nominated for L.A. Music Awards Album of the Year, "SMASH" is adult alterna-pop with edge, depth, intelligence, and mood swings... from one of L.A.'s favorite and award winning singer/songwriters. Think Sarah McLachlan + Chryssie Hynde + Aimee Mann

notes

It is rare that an artist has so much to offer her audience: talent, beauty, charisma, songs that people can't help but sing along with, and lyrics they want to quote to their friends. Besides being crowned the L.A. Music Award's Outstanding Songwriter and nominated for Outstanding Female Artist, Cindy was also nominated for the L.A. Music Awards Indie Pop Album of the Year for her debut CD See Red. She's been named one of L.A.'s "Hottest Unsigned Bands" by Music Connection, the "Best of Local Licks" by K.L.O.S. 95.5FM, a "Buzzing" artist by Hits Magazine, and has topped the charts at mp3.com. Thanks to the internet, Cindy now answers fan-mail from all over the world.

Born and raised in L.A., Cindy credits her parents for instilling within her the love of music when, at age six, they gave her the gift of piano lessons. In addition "my Grandma was a music teacher and, growing up, she would play the piano and I would sing," Cindy recalls. By age 12, Cindy was mentored by Nathan Lam, "vocal coach to the stars," and picked to record an album of children's music called "Regeneration" which was narrated by Ed Asner. Throughout high school and college (Cindy is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of U.S.C., double majoring in Theater and English), Cindy continued to sing in choruses, and starred in dozens of plays and musicals, including regional theater in L.A. and San Francisco. After endless theatrical runs and some stints on T.V. and film, Cindy returned to her true love, music. "I found it so much more satisfying to write and perform my own material, and be myself."

In 1999, Cindy released her debut album, See Red, which she describes as "a collection of demos that I wrote over a three year period. It is a very personal record. Each song is like a polaroid of a particular point in my life." See Red was produced by Dave Darling (Boxing Ghandis/Meredith Brooks). Rave reviews have compared Cindy's work on See Red to Joni Mitchell, Sheryl Crow, Alanis Morisette and Sarah McLachlan. As one critic noted, "The lyrics on See Red are some of the finest we have seen in quite sometime. Cindy Alexander is a world-class indie artist."

In 2001, Cindy's recording of Tom Petty's American Girl produced by Matthew Wilder was the first single for the Sugar & Spice soundtrack (Trauma Records/ Newline Cinema). She completed a cross country promotional tour, playing in stores at Wherehouse Records, joined the Bacon Bros. as the opening act on their US tour, and in between played two highly successful tours in Germany. In August, 2002, a chill re-mix of her song "Only Love" was released on the Water Music Records/ Universal compilation Chilled Sirens, in the company of artists such as Sarah McLachlan, Julia Messenger, Bent, etc...

Now in 2003, Cindy presents her 2nd independent release, SMASH, which includes collaborations with Grammy Award winning writers Dennis Matkosky and Gary Harrison, and production contributions by David Darling, Dennis Matkosky and Evan Frankfort (Wallflowers/The Muffs/Jayhawks). The CD also features several songs performed by her live band, produced by Christian Nesmith (yes, son of Michael Nesmith from the Monkeys).

Cindy's songs have been featured in numerous films including Time Falling Down (Shaded Places starring Christina Applegate and Molly Ringwald), Better than I Am (20th Century Fox's Here on Earth)and Heaven Knows, I'm OK and Sick of Myself ( MGM/ Atmosphere Entertainment's cult film Smokers starring Dominique Swain and Thora Birch). Hey Hey will be featured in the upcoming movie Love & Support.

Cindy has shared the stage with Marc Cohn, Dishwalla, Suzanne Vega, Vonda Shepard, Edwin McCain, the Bacon Brothers, Tara MacLean, Ben Taylor, and was chosen to perform on the "Emerging Artist" stage at Woodstock '99. More information @ cindyalexander.com.


PRESS QUOTES RE: CINDY ALEXANDER.....


"Cindy is the personification of what it takes to be a superstar. Her writing is insightful and poignant. Her stage presence is utterly unforgettable, and her musicianship is flawless. She also possesses that
rarest of charisma that one cannot manufacture: she was born to perform,"
- David Lawrence, host and executive producer of The Net Music Countdown.

" .... Melodies to die for, intelligent, tongue-in-cheek lyrics, and a real vocal presence ...HIGHLY recommended." Pop Matters

"An absolute delight to watch...Cindy Alexander doles out catchy adult album alternative that's more beer than foam - doses of musical catnip that adapt to your memory like leather gloves to your hand....radio friendly unit shifters with one foot in probity and the other in the Top 40."
- Music Connection

"Like Joni Mitchell before her, Cindy Alexander possesses a full rounded voice with a soft, delicate nature and distinctive presence. Cindy's highly personal lyrics are expressed via a quirky, sly sense of humor [and] her powerful songs [coupled with] her charismatic performances have earned her the praise of LA audiences and critics alike." -AOL Digital City

"Cindy Alexander combines alterna-pop energy with AOR hooks in her well-crafted, literate songs. Think of a more centered Sheryl Crow."
-Listen.com

"A world-class indie artist.
...the lyrics are some of the finest we have seen in quite sometime"
- Sound Waters

"A notable standout is the lead-off track from Cindy Alexander, who delivers an energetic double-time version of Tom Petty's "American Girl" that succeeds as much because of its own personality as the considerable pull of, and nostalgia for, Petty's original."
- ENTERTAINMENT TODAY (regarding the Sugar & Spice Soundtrack)

"Captivating Songwriter. She's either in complete control of her emotions or ready for therapy...either way, she's as irresistible as gossip."
-SONGWRITER'S MONTHLY

" Alexander can be the sexy temptress while still revealing bits of her inner self. Each tune is as thoughtful as it is addictive." - Citylife, Las Vegas

"When you attend a concert from Cindy Alexander, you are treated to a musical vibe not often found on too many stages. Attendees sing along with Cindy's songs as if she is a hit artist whose familiarity has been a part of the mainstream of American music for decades."
-Rock City News

" ...someone who can deliver songs that have mass appeal yet maintain an individual and remarkable identity. And backed with a band that has the ability thing down pat, Cindy Alexander is the center of gravity in a whirlwind of talent." - Sunset Strip Radio

"Cindy Alexander's seductive, bluesy voice catches a listener's attention immediately as she wends her way through personal and intelligent songs. With irresistible hooks and rich, contemporary arrangements, Alexander's thoughtful music is reminiscent of singers like Aimee Mann."
-Las Vegas Mercury

"GOOD MUSIC...give me more...the best of Local Licks."
-Kelly Kox, KLOS radio

"Captivating"
-Music Scene International


"crush inducing"
-Performer Magazine

"Cindy Alexander is a STAR"

-suite101.com

reviews

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  • Sensational
    author: Jo Gray

    Another sensational Cindy Alexander CD! I cannot praise this wonderful lady enough. Australia needs to get it's act together & invite her down. My entire street hears Cindy's music blasting from my house and there's been no complaints so far! :)) Keep Rocking,Cindy! My brother wants this one....and Red....and WTW....*S Cheers Jojo

  • Purchased again for friends and family
    author: Kimberly Barton

    I purchased this album for myself awhile back...but I loved it so much, I decided to buy it for a friend of mine (name "Jamie," actually -- and she LOVES Cindy's song called "Jamie"); and also for my sister-in-law who is doing her 2nd tour of duty in Iraq. I hope it lifts them up as high as it did me...I know it will.

  • Worth every penny
    author: Tien Yin Yau

    I just rediscovered this CD in my collection. Very catchy and vaguely naughty

  • Songs that actually speak to me...
    author: Kimberly

    It's not very often that I find a cd w/songs that speak to me...this album does, though! This is the best cd I've heard in a really, REALLY long time. There are so many cd's out there where there are just 1 or 2 good songs on it -- but all the songs on here are SO good! Catchy and heart felt...that is so rare, and I am so excited that I made such an awesome find!

  • Cindy continues to touch the hearts of her listeners
    author: kantbequiet@yahoo.com

    This is more of the same of what Cindy started in See Red: uptempo folky-rock tunes, with thought-provoking lyrics (especially 818) and ballads that will touch your heart. Smash is first-rate and Cindy is terrific.

  • Excellent....Lottsa fun to listen to
    author: Dave Carnes

    This one....#2.....Cracked me up...great vocals, lyrics are really cool. Cindy really knows how to hold a strong note!

  • Wish I found her sooner!
    author: Jen

    I picked up this cd recently but actually had a hard time deciding which one of her cd's to buy first, but was amazed at the first song and every one after on Smash. This is the best cd I've bought all year! Cindy's voice is so beautiful and lovely I've been hooked since Masterpeice (and feel she wrote it for me.) It's amazing and a big surprise she's not a bigger star. Cindy could be compared to Cheryl Crowe or some other artists and a few of her lyrics or vocals sound similar to her but Cindy's voice and vocals are more distinctive. Standout tracks are "I'm So Sad" "Jamie" and "818" are so interesting and catchy I've listened to them hundreds of times, every track is a standout and wonderful. "Heaven Knows" is real gem listed at the end of the cd. The lyrics on these songs are so clever and interesting, every song is a masterpiece. Can't add much more or anything new to any of the other reviews, but loved Smash so much I bought her others immediately. Buy it before they're all gone! You won't be disappointed.

  • Leaves Me Wanting More
    author: Melinda Browne

    With this artist I can be sure I will not want to skip any tracks. Cindy continues to grow in her songwriting and her artistry.

  • An absolute masterpiece
    author: Mark McLean

    This album is simply, if I may borrow the title of Track 1, a masterpiece. An insightful journey into the heart and mind of a world class musician, through beautiful vocals, intelligent lyrics, and well-crafted melodies. I cannot get enough of "I'm So Sad That You're Happy" as well as "Idiot Child". I hear many artists here in LA, and Cindy is certainly one of the best.

  • WOW!
    author: Richard L

    Just heard Cindy Alexander yesterday on KLOS in Los Angeles. What an incredible talent! I've ordered all of her CDs and am certain that they will remain in my player for quite some time. Go Cindy!

  • Smash is excellent, another home run from Cindy.
    author: John Williamson

    Smash is another hit from Cindy. I have bought more than a thousand tapes,& CDs over the years and these songs and her emotion singing them makes you want to listen again and again. I can't wait for the next one. Way to go Cindy.

  • Pulled this one out of the air!
    author: Jackie

    Heard Cindy while I was flying cross country on American Airlines radio. When I heard "I'm So Sad that You're Happy" I went straight to the in-flight magazine and HAD to know who the songstress was that sang and wrote this hit song. Once I got home, I ordered the cd and it hasn't left my cd player. Smash is an incredible collection of songs by a gifted singer/songwriter.

  • An aptly-titled masterpiece ...
    author: Meredith C.

    It is rare for an independent artist to produce a debut album that lives up to all the hype it creates. It is rarer still for a follow-up album to equal the talent of its predecessor. (Does the phrase "sophomore slump" ring any bells?) Somehow, L.A. singer/songwriter Cindy Alexander has managed to produce a sophomore CD that not only equals its predecessor but TOPS it! The aptly-titled SMASH does just that ... and then some. SMASH contains all the elements that made Cindy such a hit in the first place: insightful, clever, humorous lyrics that would make Dorothy Parker roll over in her grave; dynamic, powerful vocals; flawless musicianship; and irrepressible charisma. There's not a dud on SMASH--the album is filled with a bevy of quirky yet surprisingly insightful hits. Pick a favorite song? I double-dare you (and so does Dorothy). Bottom line: Buy the album. Buy several copies and send them to your best girlfriends. You won't be sorry, and it will be the best hard-earned money you've ever spent on a CD.

  • Pure Emotion, Pure Talent
    author: Star Bucklatte

    Sounds like this artist is telling you stories to your face - real life stuff. Like she's hanging out with YOU, personally, and pouring her heart out on the table. Undeniably intimate and honest lyrics, and catchy melodies that linger in your head long after the cd has finished. I was surprised to find Cindy Alexander put this out on her own label and not on Atlantic Records. But maybe that's why it's so special cuz she's like my new secret that I keep spilling to all my friends. I'm spilling it here too.

  • My Second Exposure to Cindy
    author: John

    I admit that I am an old timer. I heard Cindy's See Red CD and had to buy this one too. She seems to be on the same wavelength as my kids. I can hear and understand her vocals. Her band is creative and supports her. Mainly, her vocals and lyrics are most thought provoking and understandable. May she never dye her hair maroon and keep on creating great music!

  • L.A.'s Sweetheart
    author: Shane

    Cindy Alexander is L.A.'s Sweetheart - on stage and off. Fans adore her. Critics adore her. I adore her. As a songwriter myself, I find her absolutely inspiring. As a performer, my jaw drops. This cd is brilliant from beginning to end - get it while she's still one of our best kept secrets.

  • WOW
    author: Bennett Young

    There is not one clunker on this cd. EVERY single song is well written, beautifully performed, and produced with taste. I'm not usually a fan of chick rock but this one particular artist has me charmed. Do I admit that I was introduced to Cindy Alexander by my ex-girlfriend? Felt guilty after copying the cd on my computer...so I went out and bought it. Considering that she's eye candy, not a problem to own the artwork... But back to the music. It's simply too good not to own in its original package.

  • This is the one...
    author: Dave

    I've been enthralled with Cindy's talents since I worked for and helped her at MP3.com several years back. I saw her in San Diego at a Bacon Bros. concert recently and had to get the new CD of course... I didn't know it could get better. I listen to all kinds of music - all genres, styles, etc. But SMASH is one of a handful of CD's that I've EVER left in my CD player to listen to over and over. Alas, I had to replace it with a new CD, but not before I was singing every song along with Cindy! :-) (Can I give SMASH 10 stars?)

  • She's got IT
    author: Shelby the Music Snob

    Followed a trail of underground indie artists and lo and behold, a diamond. I love that she's indie, but I'm surprised she's not a huge star all over MTV and VH1 - she has the looks, the songs, the voice, and that special IT that convinced me to buy all 4 of her cd offerings last night at a show in Seattle. Smash is cover to cover, one of the catchiest and most refreshing cd's I've bought to date. I'm obsessing on tracks two and three at the moment ("I'm So Sad that You're Happy" and "Jamie") but I hesitate to pick favorites because I truly think every song in this collection is worthy of replay. I was hung up on "Right On" last night. Cindy's lyrical attitude (and BOY does this GIRL have attitude) is empowering to women, as opposed to so many of the oh-so-serious female songwriters in the Lillith scene. She's also FUNNY. This is one artist both my husband and I can agree upon.

  • Amazing album!
    author: Matt

    Smash is even better than See Red, if that's possible! It is an album that puts Cindy with the likes of the Joni Mitchells and Chryssie Hyndes of the world. Smash has rocking moments, folky moments, poppy moments - and a couple bluesy moments (but it's less bluesy than See Red.) And Cindy does all the styles so well! This is a must have CD.

  • Only Love for Smash
    author: Mark

    So it's been 4 years since Cindy's last album and it was well worth the wait. This album has everything you would want. Slow songs like Only Love and Tour Song. It has rocking tracks like Smash and Carnival Junkie. As well as generally impressive and heartfelt tracks like, Idiot Child and Heaven Knows. This is a great album you will want to listen to over and over from the first song to the last.

  • S M A S H = Seductive, Magical, Alluring, Supremely Hot
    author: Robby C (roguerob)

    Smash is all of the above and more, much more - intelligent, clever and thoroughly original songs, beautifully written and superbly realized by Cindy and her phenomenal band. My favorite? It's a toss-up between Idiot Child, Only Love, Carnival Junkie, I'm So Sad (That You're Happy), Right On, The Tour Song, Heaven Knows, and the title track. . .Wait a minute, that's nearly all the songs ON the cd. Ok, ok, so I'm a Cindy junkie. I could do worse. A lot worse.

  • A voice worthy of your time
    author: Nell Sandburg from L.A., CA

    I don't buy a lot of cd's - but this is one I HAD to have. I don't compete with my friends to have the most cd's, only the best, and SMASH is one of them. Cindy's voice is rich and emotionally drenched, her songs are stellar, and the entire cd- from the content to the packaging is first rate. You've probably read the online reviews - Cindy is a "world class indie artist" and I couldn't agree more. This is one artist that lives up to the hype and I am unashamedly a HUGE fan. Just a side note - if you ever have the chance to see her live, DO IT. I try to see at least two shows a week, and Cindy and her band put on one of the best shows I've seen in L.A.. No pretense, just great music with the added bonus of Cindy's charismatic performance and charming sense of humor.

  • Cover to Cover! One of the Best .
    author: Gary Smorzewski - Light in the Garage Prod.

    The last band/album I picked as a cover to cover was LIVE, Throwing Copper. There haven't been many ,if any, since except possibly Steve Earle's Jerusalem. This album however has me back in good spirits singing along with every tune, and I can say this will be my next pick. The production is also first rate and shows the beauty of not having the Music Machine spewing out it's drivel and dictating how the songs sound. This can only be done when the artist has a choice on what to record and how to record it. This one's a keeper and should catapult Cindy into the spotlight she so much deserves. I could go on and on however, you cannot read a record album, so go buy a copy and listen to it already. True talent shines.... Shine on Cindy! Gary Smorzewski Light in the Garage Productions

  • The "Idiot Child" Staggers to Genius
    author: Pesci

    Did your lover let all the emotional baggage get in the way of happiness? Are you a magnet for side show relations and tilt-a-whirl romance? Do you know that person who's afraid of everything they ever wanted? We all know these characters or admittedly may even be one of them. SMASH is an album filled with these faces and other assorted character goodies Cindy Alexander shows "we all got problems of our own" (Idiot Child) with her new roller coaster rock n roll record. Cindy Alexander is the songwriter you wish you could be. Sure the characters and tales are deep and introspective, but dont forget the music. The melodies and vocals soar, the guitars blast, and the drums crush (smash?). Anyone can analyze but it takes a songwriter/performer like Cindy Alexander to kick your ass and make you want to shake it all at the same time. "Welcome to my open house.." (Masterpiece) the line that starts the record off. Cindy seems to say here I am, and accept that I am closer to perfection because of or as a result of my mistakes and flaws. The beauty is in the details; the rest of the songs to follow. I dont need to tell you what my favorite tracks are (there is NO filler on this album). It should be your job to figure out which are your favorites. I can muster a thousand cliches to tell everyone what you're missing if you dont own this album, but in truth you're only missing out on the most important a valid voice in Los Angeles today.

  • Worth the wait!
    author: George Rosales, Music Fan

    Since having "See Red" stolen by my friends numerous times and having to buy it over and over again...I've waited 4 long years for another Cindy Alexander cd. SMASH was definitely worth the wait. EVERY song is memorable, quotable (Cindy's lyrics always are), and stands on its own - no filler here. From the rockin' edgy attitude of Masterpiece to the gorgeous, lush vocals of Jamie, to the incredible string arrangement in 818, you will not be disappointed.

  • Cindy does it again!
    author: Joe

    Once again, Cindy Alexander has released a superlative album. Her previous effort, "See Red," was the first album in a long time that I wanted to listen to again as soon as the last track ended. Even so, I was blown away when I heard this new album because I realized Cindy's voice and writing skills are even stronger now than they were when she recorded that previous excellent, excellent album. Amazing! To get into more of the specifics about this album, it rocks harder than "See Red," but does so without losing the endearing quirkiness and intelligence of Cindy's lyrics. Oh, and the song "Masterpiece" is appropriately titled. Cindy's strong voice and imaginative lyrics, backed by a catchy and rockin' tune, makes for one heck of a potent song. This is a great album, and I'm thrilled to have it in my collection!

  • Playing in the Big Leagues now
    author: Melissa

    I admit that I had to hound band members in order to be one of the first to get a copy of this cd - this BRILLIANT cd. Not only is Cindy's songwriting some of the best you'll hear in today's market, but her voice just blows me away and it's stronger than ever. Sometimes a siren, sometimes an angel, but always passionate and resounding with truth, Cindy is the real deal. I've followed her the last couple of years and fell in love with her live show. More than "See Red" (which is an incredible collection of songs, but more acoustic and mellow than this cd), SMASH captures the energy of her live shows. Idiot Child sounds EXACTLY like I heard it at the Roxy. Gave me goosebumps then and gives me goosebumps now. Buy this CD - this girl is gonna be a star. She already is in my galaxy.

  • Smash is a Smash!
    author: Ronny

    Cindy Alexander again proves she has what it takes to be a big star. "Smash" is her latest CD and the title fits. This CD is fantastic. The opening track "Masterpiece" starts with the line "Welcome to my open house..." a perfect opening line to this collection of songs. This CD shows off Cindy's range as a singer and songwriter. One minute she has you in palm of her hand singing a love song on "Only Love" and the next minute she kicks you in butt on the title track "Smash". Cindy's lyrics are playful and sexy when she talks about having a "phone date" on "818". Need a song to stew about an ex lover? Try "I'm So Sad (That You're Happy)". How about one of those turn the stereo up and blast the windows out of your car song? Hold on to your speakers with "Right On". There isn't a dull moment on this CD. Cindy Alexander's "Smash" is a masterpiece!

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