Funded by Rising Artist Mentorship, eight northern Colorado artists were picked by the KRFC radio station for professional recording and production. Steve Parker sat down with the artists and helped them step by step to perfect a song for a local music compilation titled Rise VOL.1. The artists performed their selected song on October 12 at Avogadro’s Number, here in Fort Collins.

[1.] “Spinning” (Lexi Shanley)– Shanley has a soulful vibe to her vocals and lyrics. Having drums and an electric guitar accompanying her singing makes the composition have depth and creates that singer-songwriter feel. Shanley is a senior at Fossil Ridge High School.

[2.] “Rockslide” (Eli Slocumb)– With influences like Sam Bush, Slocumb plays the mandolin, a smaller stringed instrument traditionally used in bluegrass and american folk music. The song is soothing and relaxing.

[3.] “Mid-July” (The Gremlins)– With an arrangement that keeps you listening, the lead singer also has a unique voice. This 3 piece band gives off the right amount of funk and rock. This trio all attend Poudre High School.

[4.] “Live Happily” (Metaphysical Lamppost)– Made of the drummer Krista Frable, Ethan Markey the bassist and MQ Borocz the guitarist, this band’s sound is best described as “progressive psychedelic funk rock fusion.”

[5.] “Boogie Woogie” (Jimmi Harrington)– This song instantly draws the listener in with the quick piano playing. The entire piece is consisted of keyboard work and keeps listeners on their toes.

[6.] “In Motion” (Kirby Hamill feat Amber Walker)– Consisting of guitarist Kirby Hamill and vocalist Amber Walker, Hamill gives an essence of Jimi Hendrix guitar style while Walker provides vocals that bring the song together.

[7.] “Fishing” (The Gremlins)– This song differs from “Mid-July” because of the faster tempo. The excitement draws in listeners and keeps them wanting more.

[8.] “Barefoot Dreams” (Footnotes)– The melodic guitar and violin make this song well rounded and an effortless listen. Having a male and female vocal on the track also makes it unique. Guitar player Andres Jimenez and violinist Taylor Ault are both seniors at Fossil Ridge High School.