PRESS
Music Existence
Single Review of I’m Alright
“Knowing that they have the street credit, the indie rock darlings of the world, I rooted for Makar’s overall essence. It’s like walking into a vintage store, all the yellows, the greens, the rust colors – and feeling an overwhelming sense of sunshine and love. They somehow embody this punk world but let in shards of light and optimism. If they were a periodical, Makar would be the homemade kind you used to grab on your way out of the downtown record stores. Someone took the time to make a run to Kinkos and make those music rags.”
By Loren Sperry - January 27, 2022
https://musicexistence.com/blog/2022/01/28/single-review-makar-im-alright-premiere/
Glamglare
Videos of the Week - I Want to Be Loved
“NYC duo MAKAR does not need much to bring a story to life, in this case, “Petronella” by Jay Williams. They put a lot of good vibes into music and visuals, so enjoy a five-minute break from the cold January weather.”
By Elke Nominikat - January 11, 2022
https://glamglare.com/music/2022/01/11/video-picks-artsick-daytona-starsky-gentle-party-makar/
True Skateboard Magazine
True Skateboard Magazine
Music Video Review of I Want To Be Loved
“A quirky and fun music video ‘I Want To Be Loved’ by husband & wife duo MAKAR, who’ve been dropping literate, blues-infused piano pop / indie rock gems since 2002”
By True Skateboard Magazine — January 6, 2022
https://truesk8boardmag.com/makar-dropped-a-new-single/
Roadie Music
Single Review of Love & Confusion
“The new release will inevitably expand its name to the most inhospitable corners, because “Love And Confusion” is SENSATIONAL!”
By Alessandro Iglesias — December 18, 2021
https://roadie-music.com/makar-lancamento-do-envolvente-single-love-and-confusion-saiba-mais-e-confira/
Lost in the Manor
Interview
“Your latest track is 'Love and Confusion'. Can you share with us the background of its creation and did any unusual things happen during its creation?
Andrea: I know there’s really no resemblance to this but when I started this song I was listening to Love and Happiness by Al Green over and over again. I mean it sounds nothing like that song, it’s just the longing in it. It’s my little Indie nod to Rev. Green. I just love the way he begins the song. He whispers in your ear, sets your soul on edge, talking just to you, telling you a truth. I like the beginning because it feels so quiet and yet so powerful.
What surprises me with this song’s creation is that it alludes to other songs we’ve written and I wasn’t even aware of it at the time. The lyric, “the sky is falling down” connects with another song on the album, Devil Don’t Do Me In lyric – “Do I give into depression or does the sky simply fall on me?” Emotions always threaten to burst through and are frowned upon in the day-to-day grind.
It’s funny, I only see all these intersections with in hindsight. Even in our second album, Funeral Genius in the title track, I wrote “the sky below is always falling a little.” And the sky is that feeling when depression starts to circle and you feel if only you fight hard enough you can hold up the sky and push back the depression. I tend to write about the same things unknowingly – insomnia, depression, anxiety, wanting to belong.
In the recording of Love and Confusion, it became a very different song. It was angrier before (https://youtu.be/sGHqsKfA4bo). I had this desire to play it in a higher octave and in those higher octaves, Mark and I found all these different harmonies I could sing as well as the ooooo in the bridge. I can’t imagine the song without the oooo.
While I like the original version, the final version on the album with all the high / low harmonies and the high energy made the song take off. Add a little timbales and the song transformed.”
By Kamil Bobin — December 16, 2021
https://www.lostinthemanor.co.uk/blog/interview/december2021/musosoup/makar
Indie Dock Music Blog
Single Review of Love & Confusion
“The single 'Love And Confusion' is the main tune from this record and it really has that amazing energy and extraordinary melody that fascinates us with its simplicity and memorability.”
By Indie Dock Music Blog — December 7, 2021
http://indiedockmusicblog.co.uk/?p=9583
With Guitars
Single Review of Love and Confusion
“With the release of their latest single “Love and Confusion,” the band ramps up their positive vibes for a mesmerizing release of feel-good energy and vocal harmonies and contagious vibes. Right when Andrea’s vocals comes in, the flavorful pop notes were noticeable right from the start.”
By My Nguyen — November 17, 2021
https://www.withguitars.com/297555-2/
Neufutur Magazine
Single Review of Zombies Have Rights Too
“Husband and wife duo, Makar, have another cooler-than-you-think gem with their new Halloween-inspired hit, “Zombies Have Rights Too”. Or is it inspired by the undead? Perhaps a nefarious monster is behind the song, or maybe it’s presented as a nod to the folks that just don’t get the same attention or love as they deserve. The tight sound, the airy melodies and the quirky beat is what makes Makar oh-so-good.”
“I felt like there was a deeper layer to this, that the idea of being isolated and alone is universal. I think in a lot of ways, as a society we are zombies. We are always looking ahead, and not always truly looking at the people around us or even in the mirror.”
By Kim Muncie - November 8, 2021
https://neufutur.com/2021/11/husband-and-wife-duo-makar-release-new-single/
VENTS
Single Review of Zombies Have Rights Too
“The new song “Zombies Have Rights Too” is a quick, but altogether trek. I loved the haunting vibe meshed with a folky-pop-rock residue. Makar, the husband-wife duo made up of Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell, behind this trippy jaunt, embellishes the song with dreamy pop percussion (sounding a lot like bongos) with oohs and awes. Someone to love…zombie love, DeAngelis sings. The fresh, almost warm acoustic guitar elevates the heat, in almost a way that feels golden. I suppose if you’re looking for a song that goes ‘haunt in the night’ this might not be the midnight madness you seek. Rather, it’s an endearing look, albeit quick, look at a group that often gets overlooked. Zombies need love too; you will be singing away.”
“Zombies Have Rights Too” is from the forthcoming album (due November 19) Fancy Hercules. Purnell notes in the band’s press materials that they never run out of ideas for songs. Judging by their track record, and their newest release, Makar are bound to turn some heads and ears. “Zombies Have Rights Too” might find itself smooshed alongside other Halloween tracks, but it’s fair to say that it belongs in a whole new indie category. Makar have honed their sound, and this is just a scrumptious track to get behind. The music video, too, is just as fun. It’s a bit off kilter – and who doesn’t like a bizarre zombie and monster couple having a candlelit dinner in their apartment? Gnarly teeth and some burgundy fake blood, and you have yourself a riot of a music video.”
By Jennifer Munoz — November 6, 2021
https://ventsmagazine.com/2021/11/06/single-review-zombies-have-rights-too-by-makar/
Celebmix
“Zombies Have Rights Too” opens on a sparkling piano riding a tight, finessed rhythm. Buoyant vocal harmonies enter, giving the lyrics a delicious, ghoulish feel as syncopating beats imbue the tune with galloping cadence. Glowing ahh, ahh harmonies flow overhead, infusing the song with radiant suffusion.”
By Randy Radic — October 28, 2021
https://celebmix.com/music-video-premiere-makar-unveils-zombies-have-rights-too/
NY Patch Interview
The incredible duo of Makar have been taking over New York City as one of the prominent mainstays in the scene. Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell pour their heart and soul into their music, and have become one of the most talked about and well-regarded acts, even more so over the course of the past 2 years.
By Jennifer Palou - April 24, 2017
https://patch.com/new-york/new-york-city/making-music-makar
Kurrent Music
Makar is the folk-rock duo of Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell. Creating an impeccable brand of music, the group, who have been making waves the past several years, are gearing up for their latest release Fancy Hercules which will finally see the light of day in 2017. The musically charged duo pen poetic lyrics and mystical melodies that are thought provoking and breathtaking all at once.
By Carrie Lowell - February 10, 2017
http://www.kurrentmusic.com/blogviewer.html?blog-guid=615fc4f4-bd0c-482a-815a-2f61c5de472d
“With recent events in the U.S., Makar brings a very important and political song to the table. Recently releasing their latest single, "America Where Are You?" we hear the band voicing their thoughts and concerns in the latest piece. Fitting for the 2017 political landscape and Inauguration Day, the group brings to the table a rational and heartfelt concern in the world, and what a worrisome world it is. Sharing the story of the haves and have nots, the rich and poor, and beyond, their hearts capture the essence and concerns of the American people.”
Makar shares of the song:
"When we think of the lyrics of this song, we think about the poison of apathy. We think about how frustrated, disappointed and depressed we were about our leaders until President Obama and Vice President Biden. How paralyzing our own apathy was. Because if you stopped caring, the pain of what was happening to our world would dull and recede. But if you click off all the news in order to breathe and live in denial, that bubble of apathy just allows wars and injustices to continue. This song is a call to action now more than ever."
By Carrie Lowell - January 20, 2017
http://www.kurrentmusic.com/blogviewer.html?blog-guid=55f70e4d-5690-4309-a5aa-6ec3b880385f
Medium interview
Filled with gorgeous color and stunning imagery, Makar’s Folk-Rock sounds will equally entice and delight you. With their recent release in tow “Funeral Genius,” the group is gearing up for a jumpstart in 2017 on the heels of their long-awaited follow up, “Fancy Hercules.” Their creative and innovative songs drive with a force that is enlightening and delightful, even when the songs gain a dark edge. Makar proves themselves as artists, both musically and lyrically, which makes us want to know more about the rising group.”
By Amy Garon - August 30, 2016
https://medium.com/@AmyGaron/fall-2016-perks-up-with-upcoming-releases-c0c09621c4f2
Indie Band Guru
The New York City scene is a very crowded one. Everyone who comes here is given a chance but to have any staying power you must be something special. Our friends from Makar have been a staple of the folk rock scene for the last 14 years. Their sound is powered by guitar and piano that blends indie rock energy, some raw punk, and the intimate feel of folk. Andrea and Mark of Makar are some of the hardest workers out there and they seem to always have fun doing it.
Kind words from writer and founder, Keith Pro - August 15, 2016
http://indiebandguru.com/interview-with-makar/
Paste Magazine
Makar is a duo that have been breaking through the sea of Indie bands in New York City. Since 2002, they have been charming audiences with their vibrant brand of Indie-Folk that is noteworthy and delightful, as musicians Mark Purnell and Andrea DeAngelis find their heart and soul in their songs.
Earning a Top 10 spot on the Deli Magazine’s Top 300 NYC Indie Bands, the group impress with their latest release, Funeral Genius. 2016 sees big things in store for the band, as Makar is set to release their third record, Fancy Hercules.
By Louise Parker - May 17, 2016
https://www.pastemagazine.com/articles/2016/05/makar-brings-new-york-home.html
Ethnocloud
Makar is husband-wife duo Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell, creating glorious Anti-Folk sounds throughout New York City for a number of years, the group are getting ready to release their latest endeavor into the world, Fancy Hercules. Usually armed with a guitar and piano, the duo bring new life into the genre, and expand their horizons far beyond.
By Jeremy Davis - April 5, 2016
https://ethnocloud.com/Jeremy_Davis/?blog=674
BuzzFeed
Makar, have made quite an impression on music listeners in recent years. Makar’s most recent record, “Funeral Genius” is their most innovative to date, but things are about to be taken up a notch with the eclectic upcoming record, “Fancy Hercules” due out later this year.
By 10000hours Community User - March 9, 2016
https://www.buzzfeed.com/10000hours/makar-is-causing-a-scene-in-new-york-city-2105u
Arena
MAKAR, the brilliant band who hails from New York, are already creating a stir in the New Year. Made up of Andrea DeAngelis, and Mark Purnell (who are also husband and wife), they prove that they are a mainstay in the indie-folk scene. In recent years, the band had released two records; 99 Cent Dreams and Funeral Genius, and have played venues all over Manhattan, Brooklyn and beyond. In 2016 eager listeners will get a brand new earful of MAKAR music as they are set to release their new record, Fancy Hercules. I had the pleasure of speaking with Mark and Andrea, as we explore every aspect of the band, and what treasures the new record will hold.
By Kay Aarons = January 6, 2016
https://arena.com/article/makar-talks-new-record-for-2016
No Depression
Chatting with New York Staple, Makar. If you are from the New York area, chances are you’ve heard of Makar. Made up of husband-and-wife duo Mark Purnell and Andrea DeAngelis, the two bring to life a familiar sound, which is starting to branch out across the nation; and beyond!
By Emily Hinde - January 6, 2016
http://nodepression.com/article/chatting-new-york-staple-makar
Independent Artist Buzz
Makar is a band that has been making waves the past several years in the New York City music scene and around the world. The eclectic anti-folk duo bring a charming set of songs to life with their latest record “Funeral Genius.”
October 9, 2015
https://independentartistbuzz.tumblr.com/post/130835742233/indie-5-0-five-questions-with-makar
New Sick Music
Review of Funeral Genius
A great album displays a range of sounds, of styles, and of emotions. In Makar’s album, Funeral Genius, whole spectrums unfurl with each new track. The piano and guitar wielding duo hail from New York, and their second album is just waiting for you to enjoy it.
Highlights of Funeral Genius include the second track “I Wanna Know What I Don’t Know” with its 90s punk-ish kick. Here, co-vocalist Andrea DeAngelis’s voice is reminiscent of Kathleen Hanna’s, and let me tell you, that’s a good thing. In the next track, “Belong Here” the vocals become much gentler. Makar are interested in nothing less than keeping an audience on their toes. The other half of the duo, Mark Purnell, shines on the ninth song of the album, “Show Me That Look in Your Eyes”, which has a definitive folk-love feel. A perfect track for summertime.
by Kaitlin Ruether - April 14, 2015
http://newsickmusic.com/?s=makar
Badass Bands Blog
Review of Funeral Genius
Jonesing for a dynamic guy/girl duo to add to your music repertoire? Look no further music lovers. Not only is this duo talented musically, they are after this music fiend’s own heart considering that the members are writers aside from their songwriting, Andrea is even a published poet. They are quite out of the ordinary as you will find in listening to their tunes, and their range is broad which offers ear solace to any kind of music lover. Badass Band 47 is New York’s MAKAR.
MAKAR is another band that found me, and once their tunes hit my ears, I had a hard time deciding which of them I liked best. It was almost as if I went into super ADD mode, I was clicking on all their tracks trying to decide which I liked best right off the bat and they were all so different I couldn’t settle on one. I ended up forcing myself to just download them all and listen to them in order from start to finish. So, that being said, let’s start by talking about the vocals. Andrea’s vocals I can really only describe as light and refreshing. They have power, but not in the traditional sense, in the sense that they are so soft and singsongy that you just can help but listen. For me this is especially exemplified on songs like ‘I Wanna Know What I Don’t Know’ or ‘Belong Here’ As for Mark, his voice is deep but also keeps the more light, singsongy quality that Andrea’s has. His voice almost reminds me of vocals that were more prevalent in 50′s tunes. A great example of this would be on the track ‘Show Me That Look in Your Eyes’. Their voices seem to be the male and female counterparts of each other, and they combine gloriously.
Music and lyrics wise, MAKAR is a band that you won’t be bored of. I remember thinking they we probably just going to be a folksy band, but they can’t be categorized. They have slower folksy tunes, upbeat 50′s style tunes, old school Southern country type songs (Think O Brother Where Art Thou) and even some that lean towards punk. They describe themselves a guitar and piano driven indie-rock band that makes Punk and Poet rejoice and dance together. That sounds pretty damn accurate to me. Lyrically, their songs are beautiful. Their topics are broad, ranging from dark to humorous, love to hate, social commentary, etc. Again their versatility musically and lyrically is their strong suit.
This is definitely a band you want to listen to. Mark and Andrea were kind enough to talk with BBB and below you will find the answers to your burning questions about MAKAR like: What does the name mean? How does their creative process work? Why do they think I should listen to them? What are their ‘day jobs’? Etc. So read on music lovers, and be dazzled by this radical musical duo.
By Jolynn Braswell - August 12, 2012
http://badassbandsblog.wordpress.com/2012/08/12/badass-band-47-makar/
RingMaster
Review of Funeral Genius
Guitar and piano led the new album from US band Makar (pronounced Mah-Kar) is a release which soon forms a strong engagement with the ear treating it to an open weave of thoughtful melodic imagination and easily pleasing pop sounds. Ranging from indie rock to folk pop with slithers of quirky invention, Funeral Genius makes an endearing and intriguing piece of pleasure to spend time with.
Formed 2002-03, Makar consists of New Jersey girl Andrea DeAngelis (vocalist/guitarist) and New Yorker Mark Purnell (vocals/ piano). With shows at the likes of Luna Lounge, CBGBs gallery, Knitting Factory and Pianos under their belt the pair wrote and released their eighteen song strong debut album 99 Cent Dreams in 2005. Three years in the making it won immediate and lingering acclaim across radio stations, media, and the public. 2008 saw the duo begin work on Funeral Genius another three year project, and upon its recent release the band again started being soaked in full and eager enthusiasm for its sounds which now having heard it is understandable. With the addition of Mark Nilges and drummer Dawn McGrath on the album Makar quite simply light up the air with twelve excitable songs which even if indie pop is not your preferred aural medium cannot fail to leave a warm smile inside.
The title track opens up the release with an instant sunny disposition despite the theme of the personal negativity some people carry through every day. There is a underlying eighties feel to the song and the album as a whole in that it reminds of The Passions a little but more of a more restrained but no less fun Martha and the Muffins. With a melodic eagerness and the enchanting vocals of DeAngelis playing around the great bass and the striding piano, the song is a very welcoming start to the album.
The following I Wanna Know What I Don’t Know and Belong Here continue the fun and inviting beginning. The first is a resourceful mix of indie rock and bouncing show piano with a seventies vocal flavouring, like an amalgamation of Throwing Muses and The Sundays with Middle Of The Road. It captures the imagination from the start with a familiarity and open inducement to join in and though it is not as eager as its predecessor it leaves one more than satisfied. The second of the pair continues the fine blend of piano and guitar topped by excellent the angelic vocals of DeAngelis all firmly and skilfully veined by the bass of Nilges and beats of McGrath.
Tracks like Bottle of Beauty mixes things up nicely on the release with Purnell taking the vocal lead whilst I Can’t Tell You To Stay offers a compelling bluesy groove to its flow though Nilges is the star on this particular track. The song twists and turns continually throughout to make for one of the more unpredictable and delightfully thrilling songs on the release.
There are a couple of moments where the album misses the mark though it is more down to personal preference to be fair, but In The Know with its limited breath and banshee harmonic shrieks left more puzzlement than joy whilst the closing lo-fi raw recording of Devil In A Dream seemed like a track too far for these ears. With intelligent and compelling songs like America Where Are You and Show Me That Look In Your Eyes making up the album personal tastes make a small impact of the pleasure gained from Funeral Genius.
Though not destined to be a consistent player here it is impossible not to be impressed and fully gratified with the quality songwriting, exciting melodies, and some of the best indie pop tunes heard this year. Makar have an open invitation for all to join their party with Funeral Genius it is just up to you to go an enjoy.
By RingMaster - June 13, 2012
http://ringmasterreviewintroduces.wordpress.com/2012/06/13/makar-funeral-genius/
Popa’s Tunes
Review of Funeral Genius
This is the second piece I'm writing for Popa Tunes, which has been a pleasure, as well as an excellent opportunity to expose myself to some new music. He has a natural ear for the sounds worth paying attention to, so I never turn down the chance to work with him.
In November 2011, NYC Indie Pop band MAKAR came out with their second major release "Funeral Genius," and the unique qualities of this album make it an extremely significant addition to my collection. Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell are the core of MAKAR, both demonstrate their extraordinary affinity for singing and songwriting throughout the album, with Andrea on guitar and Mark on piano. "Funeral Genius" also features bassist Mark Nilges and drummer Dawn McGrath, and the end result is something that deserves attention.
I've only had my hands on the album for about a week or so, but I have been listening to it on repeat nonstop. One of the greatest strengths of this twelve-track artistic accomplishment is the technically flawless layering of multiple styles; the instrumentals alone provide a good look at the finely-honed talent of every member. Purnell and DeAngelis alternating on vocals further enhance the multi-faceted nature of their work, and no amount of genre labels or comparisons would really do MAKAR justice. Each song carries its own particular sound, but it all comes together as a complete and well-rounded album. I keep finding myself a little more appreciative of each track every time I listen to it.
I was already enjoying myself immensely just listening to "Funeral Genius," but after getting my hands on the lyrics I was blown away. The words to every song read like poetry, and despite the outstanding musical performance, I would consider this one of the most impressive aspects. The tone throughout each song comes across as folk with a dark taste to it, but the music is by no stretch of the imagination depressing. Mark and Andrea walk a very fine line with the words, but they do it with a level of style that makes the overall emotional impact something that makes you think and feel in a different kind of way. These lyrics have some real substance to them, and it raises my already massive appreciation for MAKAR's music.
Personal Favorite Tracks:
5. I Can't Tell You To Stay: One of the best bass lines on the entire album starts off this track, both Mark and Andrea sing, fantastic song. This is the one that really caught my attention.
11. Three Times A Midnight: A slow paced, well put-together song that has an immaculate chorus. Every member really shines in this song, and the lyrics are superb.
12. Devil In A Dream: Perfect bluesy folk song, low tech recording with an acoustic guitar in a basement somewhere in Mendham, NJ. What more do you need?
"Funeral Genius" is an album worth its value several times over, and any releases coming from these standout NYC artists in the near future will become an instant addition to my collection. Even if you aren't an indie pop fan, there's a good chance the hauntingly majestic sounds of MAKAR will change your opinion on the genre. In the meantime, I will be eagerly anticipating anything they come up with.
by Matthew Warburton cross posted at Screaming at the Wall
April 1, 2012
http://popatunes.blogspot.com/2012/04/makars-funeral-genius-lives-up-to-its.html
Rust Magazine
Review of Funeral Genius
Makar does what so many other bands try to do, but fail. They combine indie, pop and rock with catchy lyrics, and they do it very, very well. They make well written songs with a distinctive sound, mixing irreverence with seriousness, layering complex arrangements under likeable melodies. In a lot of ways they're similar to Radiophonic - recently reviewed by RUST - in that there's a real excellence and uniqueness in every small element of what they do, and their album "Funeral Genius" immediately breaks through to best-of, must-have status.
Coming from the left of center, with distinctive presences from both Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell "Funeral Genius" takes elements of the 60's and everything since and weaves together a complete full-length album that is strong from start to finish. For "Funeral Genius" this husband and wife pair are supported by bassist Mark Nilges and the mighty, legendary NYC drummer Dawn McGrath, and the result is an album that makes you stop whatever else you're doing and LISTEN to it. It grabs, holds and rewards your attention and you realize that this is one of those all-time-legendary releases that will define this musical moment in your memory.
With ten years of time together, during which Makar impressed audiences at top venues around the New York area, this album definitely sounds like a unified presentation from an experienced team. The press has been kind to them, and a feature on MTV got them a deal with Sizzleteen Records. "Funeral Genius" is the result of that deal, and it has actually been the result of a lot of long-term work. Recorded at the Seaside Lounge Recording Studios in Park Slope, Brooklyn, "Funeral Genius" was three years in the making. As Mark recalls, "We recorded the first 11 songs on the album in one day at Seaside out in Brooklyn getting the drums and bass down and then “Devil in a Dream” was recorded in one day out at Andrea's parent's house in Mendham, NJ on a handheld tape recorder.”
Mark Purnell has been compared to a young John Cale, and the band shares vibes ranging from Bjork to Bowie to Blondie with strong 60's roots. There is strong retro-esque songwriting similar in both feel and excellence to the Brian Jonestown Massacre, but this is not a "retro" band. It's a folky, punky, indie mix that presents a team of unique and talented people, and that's the real take-away here. Makar accomplishes a sound and feel that many, many other bands try to achieve and usually fail because they're not talented songwriters and performers whose music comes from experience and authentic talent. Spoiler alert: this is an album that will have you throwing away half a dozen other "wannabe" albums from your collection.
So get ready to make some space on your shelf or playlist for "Funeral Genius" and pick it up right away. It's going to be one of your most-loved albums of all time. Essential.
Eric Peterson - March 20, 2012
Website defunct - click on archived link here
Rust Magazine
CRITIC'S CHOICE AWARD: MAKAR'S FUNERAL GENIUS
“Husband and wife team Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell are joined by Mark Nilges and Dawn McGrath on this indie-rock masterpiece. Mixing poetry, piano, rock, rebellion and a good whiff of their NYC home streets, the result is hands-down the ultimate hipster album. Irreverent and absurd at times, at others biting and witty, there's something a little "off" about MAKAR, but that's what makes them so perfect. They're a little flaky, and a little kooky, but before you know it, they've just kicked your ass with a previously-unimaginably tight series of ideas and phrases that leave your head spinning while trying to catch up with what they're saying next. If you don't remember to pick up this album right now, that's ok, you'll be hearing about it for years as other bands point to it as inspiration.”
Eric Peterson - November 2012
Ear to the Ground
Band of the Week - Year 2 Week 6 (or something)
Makar, Funeral Genius
Makar, I'm told, is a 15th Century Scottish term for poet. Makar is also this really killer duo from New York City. We already recommended them based on a couple of tracks I heard from their 2005 debut 99 Cent Dreams. Now, I've had the chance to hear their long awaited follow up Funeral Genius, and it's time to start shouting from the roof tops. Actually, I just like shouting from rooftops, but Makar is worth shouting about.
Makar is husband and wife Mark Purnell and Andrea DeAngelis. They play piano and acoustic guitar driven alt-rock. It's intelligent, catchy and unique. In short it's everything, got me into this type of music in the first place. The bands list of influences reads like a playlist off my MP3 player, and includes Nick Drake - so bonus points there.
If you remember from the Ear to the Ground recommends post (and I know you remember everything I write), this is the band that does my anthem of late - Hate My Job. Go check out that video.
Joe Wolfe-Mazeres - Friday, January 13, 2012
http://ear2theground-music.blogspot.com/2012/01/band-of-week-year-2-week-6-or-something.html
The Great American Music Hour
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
I host a weekly independent music podcast called The Great American Music Hour (available on iTunes) and have just discovered this band. I love them; in my opinion, this is a distillation of American music for the past 35 years, from the Velvets through the Modern Lovers through the Ramones through the Strokes. It's basic rock 'n roll, but, then, isn't that the essence of what rock 'n roll is really all about? The basics? Here you've got energy, humor, and three-chord rock band music all wrapped up into one. For a rock 'n roll fan, what else is there? Check it out; you won't be disappointed.
By Jerry Jodice - 2006
Amazon
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
Makar's music is a quintessentially American sound, evoking the particular blend of optimism and melancholy that is an authentic response to living, creating, and playing in the fractured cultural and musical milieu that yields a New Jersey/New York band in the early millennium. This is apparently their first album, recorded as studio opportunities became available, and the result is a fine, fine listen, a thoroughly charming collection of songs that will indeed grow on you. That this is a debut effort and home-recorded should not dissuade anyone from checking it out -- the material is varied and developed, and the recording is warm and rich. There is a simplicity to the arrangements but a deceptive simplicity to the music -- many times Makar's songs build upon basic chord patterns and extend melodic ideas in unexpected directions. In some of the standout tracks -- "Another Day", "All I Know", "After Autumn", "Erase Face" -- one can hear a sophisticated band that has digested the pop music of earlier eras and produced their own unique synthesis of melody, urbanity, and pastoralist. The music is not without its precursors and sonic touchstones, and this leads me to an interesting (well, to me, anyway) sociological observation. There is a married couple at the core of this band, a couple who are comfortable enough with each other to subject their relationship to the additional dynamic of playing in a band together. Thinking on other pop/rock bands where this is also the case, there is some definite musical affinity with other groups that incorporate couples, a lived-in seemingly imperturbable warmth. Fans of Ida, Low, Yo La Tengo, and X may very well hear what I mean, and, by extension, I believe would like this record. I certainly do, and I recommend it heartily.
By Kontakte23 - 2006
https://www.amazon.com/gp/customer-reviews/R1VUQEHYNQHZUB/ref=cm_cr_dp_d_rvw_ttl?ie=UTF8&ASIN=B000CAKJJU
Great Fan Quote from Marina on Myspace
Makar, I miss you, a lot. Another day is the most charming song I have heard I think, yeah with the piano and pretty guitar, it’s like coming home after a trip, all warm inside the belly, mm it’s a great feeling and that is like your music to me, and the harmony, yeah it brings shivers, with the guitar, and the way you sing wayyy, ah elegant, I feel so bad for missing you, your music is like the sunshine on this dreary evening, or I guess the moon, but yes it feels so good to hear your voice again, so wholesome, it’s like being surrounded by family. Mmm Makar, I also feel so bad for taking you off my top 8, I’m sorry about that, I’ll bring you back, you are probably one of the most genuine sounding bands I have heard on myspace, maybe in general, think so. Ahhh I live in an amazing world to be able to hear you, your voices are so happy and make me feel all warm and happy inside like a new born puppy or something, but yes you are so brilliant, and I like the "What Can I Tell You" it's catchy and yes just wonderful, what a voice you have there, you could bop around to this type of music, wonderful! Your phrasing is special as well, ahhh marvelous and classics definitely to me. Um I hope you remember me by the way I certainly remember you very clearly. Ahhh here's my favorite song ever, I totally remember this one, "The Country Song" ahhh yeah really this is the all time favorite song of yours, it’s the one that I first heard when I added you and I was so happy, really I was, your music is illuminating or something, so brilliant, ahhhh, wooo, oh and the “I Hate My Job” yeah it’s so negative, but you seem to be so happy about it, a song about hate, but it’s so upbeat, why, ahhhh I love it, I wanna hear you say I hate you more, go ahead hate me, I just want to hear you sing it, with the catchy guitar, and the way it is sung with passion, wooo and you get all energized and it picks up pace. I think you should rock, because this music has saved my soul..mm yes. So how have you been? It’s special how it gets a bit slower towards the end, it’s my favorite, and the riiiiight part and then the pace quickens, it is pretty exciting for a song about hate, ah so perky about the hate, see songs like this make you great, so great right now, so yes cheeers! And cheers to your tempo changes, it is thrilling! Mmm thank you for letting me find you again, it was the bulletin, I’m so glad my ears are refreshed and you made me happy, oh you don’t even know how happy, so anyways I hope you are well, the pleasure has been all mine to listen to you again, thaaaaaaaaank you.
By Marina - February 11, 2007
Radio Crystal Blue
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
"Boy-girl piano/guitar avant-garde sing along music."
A superb, balanced palette of drums, guitar and high crooning voices. A completely satisfying album with no real start or endpoint to it, nor concept. File it next to Velvet Underground's "Loaded" for sheer pop loveliness from your curators, Mark and Andrea. Singles include "I Hate My Job" (a rousing rant against the corporates), "Damion Day" (the requisite piano-guitar rave up, a crowd favorite). It's hard not to like the strong piano sound from Mark on "All I Know". "Honey Colored Time" has the most crossover potential...a song against the man.....but under what flag? Shimmer, slowness, even salaciousiness, so much to love about this rock quartet.
By Dan Herman - December 2006
https://radiocrystalblue.net/
Cosmosgaming.com
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
Makar is what happens when you cross the current indie revolution with a tinge of folk rock. Their debut album, 99 Cent Dreams, is an absolute joy to listen to. Every song is based on a real emotion or real thing, something that a lot of bands just can't seem to write good songs about these days. This album is catchy and has a sound that definitely stands out from the rest of the bands out there. It's not going to appeal to the metal heads or rap fanatics, but everyone else out there with an open mind will find an intriguing collection of songs.
Andrea and Mark are the two singers of Makar, and both have an extremely impressive vocal range. Mark's singing is typically more laid back and very smooth to listen to. It flows well with the instrumental work, and his vocals are what give the music a bit of an indie rock vibe. Andrea's singing is all over the place, but this is not a bad thing at all (it just might make things a little inaccessible to some listeners). Her voice is incredible and it especially shows on songs such as "All I Know", where she gives an extremely melodic performance that is definitely tear worthy. However, it is her screeches on songs such as the opener "I Hate My Job" that will grab a lot of listener's attentions. They are very high pitched and sometimes can be compared to some of the female punk singers out there (which is an unusual mix).
The instrumental work is superb, there's no better way to put it. The opener is a fast paced surf-rock esque track that quickly transitions into a more laid back ballad style track. Although Makar has plenty of folk rock vibes, there are also songs that allude to a country style. The group likes to jump between more mellow and up-tempo segments, although I will admit that I personally like the more mellow aspects. It may seem like a crazy mix at times (especially when mixing in the opening track with some of the later ones), but everything falls into place.
Makar's debut album is a wonderful trip through a wonderland of infectious tracks that the average person will be able to relate though. The two vocalist aspect (one male, one female) also gives the music a bit more depth than one would initially think. In an industry that is slowly leaning towards corporate cookie cutter rock 'n roll and stereotypical rap music, Makar isn't afraid to think outside of the box and come up with music that anyone can enjoy. 99 Cent Dreams is definitely a noteworthy album, and I can't wait to see where the group goes from here.
By Chris Dahlberg - June 20, 2006
http://www.cosmosgaming.com/music/music-reviews/makar-99-cent-dreams/
IndependentsOnly.com
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
New York's Makar finds a delicate way to mix their influences into something all their own defying comparison to anyone. Maybe it's the shared vocals of Andrea DeAngelis and Mark Purnell that stand out inside of each song. Maybe it's the small things that really start standing out the more I listen to the disc… the piano lightly chugging like it were in a Mississippi juke joint? Is it the guitars resembling the psychedelic sixties or the post punk clang heard in the eighties? Whatever it is that I'm hearing, makes Makar a musical genius worth telling people about. So pile into the van, make it fast and throw on this disc!
By Monk - April 4, 2006
Northeast In-Tune
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
Not going to lie, my favorite thing about Makar is the lyrics. Every song is based on an honest, coherent poem. Topics range from hating “The Man” to loving your spouse. Makar also has that rare ability, prized by such bands as Rasputina, to write about unconventional subjects and not make annoying songs. I Hate My Job sounds like obnoxious surf music, and yet, I dig it. It makes me think of those days when you are so frustrated that you break into crazed, but ultimately hilarious complaining. “I hate my job. I hate my life. I hate my girl. I hate my wife. And I hate you!” A personal favorite from 99 Cent Dreams is The Country Song. It’s a cowboy story in which God apparently gives up. And it also features some pretty lyrics, “I’ll find my way home tonight somehow, even if my guide’s a firefly.” That is the tip of the iceberg; you’ll have to check out Makar yourself to get the full treatment.
By Stephanie Crosby - February 24, 2006
God is in the TV Zine
Review of 99 Cent Dreams and Live Video
Makar are from New York, hate their jobs (opening track, I Hate My Job) and take their name from an old Scottish word meaning poet. 99 Cent Dreams is a self-released album featuring 18 tracks and they’ve sent a disc of live videos as well...They sound like New York. Not the recent New York, the Strokes and all that, but the older New York, the one that belonged to the Velvet Underground and the arty-types in The Village...This record is full of breadline-living bohemia and wanting to be Andy Warhol. The tunes are a mix of the Velvets and US college rock like Ben Fold’s Five. Plain, simple poetry set to decent melodies based around acoustic guitars with extras like pianos and whatever comes to hand laid over the top.
I Can’t Tell You To Stay is a simple song sung beautifully by Andrea DeAngelis – a haunting tune that rises above the rest of their stuff. She sings it in falsetto, the words lost in the tune but the feeling staying put. Don’t know how you could get your hands on it, but it’d be worth hearing. " [from a live gig video at Luna Lounge found on http://www.sonicbids.com/makar]
By Chris Helsby - October 23, 2005
http://www.godisinthetvzine.co.uk/
Blue Magazine
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
At first it was kinda hard to wrap my brain around Makar's debut CD, 99 Cent Dreams. The album definitely harkens back to an earlier age or idea with its late 60's' Go Go guitars, community theater boy/girl vocals, and healthy dose of boogie piano. It finally hit me - Makar sounds like an early 70's rock musical, filled with furry do-gooders all oddly earnest and projecting on a stage of rainbows and karma. With a vibe that's both reverent folk revivalism and (possibly) tongue-in-cheek pastiche, 99 Cent Dreams owes as much to the "Jeepers Creepers" sketch from Mr. Show as it does to Hair. On "The Country Song", Mark Purnell's Vanagon blues vocals are periodically interrupted by sharp yelps from second vocalist Andrea DeAngelis, leading me to picture them both in technicolor dream coats on a stage mugging for a stoned, easy going audience. DeAngelis carries "What Can I Tell You" with an enjoyable blend of the Supremes and Suzi Quatro, simultaneous lush and chrome for what's probably the album's standout song. The title track, like much of the record, is really peppy and sunny, throwing in narrative tempo changes and a big blustry coda. Closer "Andrea" turns down the starshine with some minor key emotionalism after "I Don't Know God" sways its way through some mid-tempo coffee shop existentialism. While not your average folk/pop release, 99 Cent Dreams certainly displays its fair share of musical talent and theatrical bombast.
By Rooney - September 7, 2005
Windy City Times
Pop Making Sense
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
The New York music scene recently flourished with electro and ‘80s-inspired bands, the band Makar is a breath of fresh air with its full-length debut 99 Cent Dreams. Timeless folk-based pop gems manifest Makar’s 99 Cent Dreams. The opening track “I Hate My Job” offers everyday man fantasies about leaving the 9 to 5 drudge to become a rockstar. The standout tune “What Can I Tell You” also appears on the compilation Freshly Squeezed Music vol. 1. Husband and wife Mark Purnell and Andrea DeAngelis not only share lead vocal duties, but also co-wrote 15 of the 18 songs jointly and arranged the album’s artwork. Purnell’s voice is surprisingly theatrical and DeAngelis, who proved her own at various poetry recitals in the Big Apple, flavorfully adds chirps, complementing the cadence. 99 Cent Dreams is available through cdbaby.com.
By David Byrne - August 11, 2005
Entire article can be found at:
http://www.windycitytimes.com/gay/lesbian/news/ARTICLE.php?AID=9162
Smother.net
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
Makar is a New York based indie rock band who ain’t gonna take no shit no how. Whether it’s a diatribe and rant about work or religion, Makar tackles the issues head on with horns ready to stab anyone in the gut dumb enough to stand in their way. But based on these comments you’d think they had a hard edge to them; couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, Makar writes catchy pop-rock songs that could be mistaken for T-Rex writing folk-rock numbers. Good stuff.
by J-Sin - July 24, 2005
CDBabel.com
Review of 99 Cent Dreams
MAKAR's music is strangely normal. They play their instruments like they were in a punk band...but the music they are playing is very classic sixties rock. The result is a feel somewhere inbetween the Sex Pistols and Lovin' Spoonful. Makar's Lyrics are wonderful. Simply put I find myself addicted to them. A song like "Lost Voices" doesn't come along every day, nor a musing like "The Country Song." The vocalist duet is right out of Belle & Sebastian, except the mans voice is deeper. This makes for a nice contrast. Both voices carry the sort of inner humor that allows them to make serious lyrics fun. The bands sound takes some getting used to and the first song will most likely scare you away, but if you listen to this CD a couple of times you will start to notice that there is some real genius behind the lyrics and the sound.
By E Jeff Einowski - June 29, 2005
6/29/05
LeftOffTheDial.com
Review of Makar's debut album rough mixes - 99 Cent Dreams
New York City has done it again. Take a bow, because everything good just seems to gravitate towards the Big Apple. Makar’s imaginatively titled, 99 Cent Dreams, is one of those things. With a band name that means poet in 15th-century Scotland, their sound is described as “poet-pop-art-rock.” The band was given birth by band members Mark Purnell and his wife Andrea DeAngelis, both of whom write the lyrics and sing. [Dan Coates] rocks the bass and Jorge Arias seduces with percussion. The four make beautifully interwoven songs together.
As I listen to their songs on my beat up Discman, I feel as though I have gone through a series of flashbacks and have crash landed on the TV show, The Monkees. Zany, I know. Maybe it’s just because one of their songs is titled The Monkey? I have a strange thinking process. Yet, what makes their music so huggable? Their live CD was taken from a show at CBGB’s Gallery, and amidst the random clappings, it made me want to dance. With their crazy, switching time signatures, it’s one of those red light, green light dances, where at one point the music sways, and the next moment you realize your feet are tingling. I was especially impressed, because the songs were not professionally mixed or mastered. The tracks “Damion Day” and “I Hate My Job” are recommended for good times.
Their 18-song, full length debut is due out this summer, including the songs, I Hate My Job, The Monkey, and All I Know.
By Debbie Kang - July 26, 2004