Maria’s Local Radar: Madame Mayhem

Fall is in the air, music is in my ears, and holiday shows are official getting booked. I think it’s safe to say the year is rapidly coming to an end, can you believe it? Well, we still have some time; it’s just crazy to think that in just a few months the holidays will be here. On a positive note, though, that means it’s almost time for some great shows including Taking Back Sunday’s Second Annual Holiday Spectacular at Starland Friday, Dec. 18, The Starting Line’s Annual Holiday Show also at Starland Dec. 27, and so much more.

That being said, there are also some local acts in the market bulking up their tour schedules this fall, including my featured act of the week. Once again, I received an email submission that grabbed my attention, allowing me to put their band in the Local Radar spotlight. Please allow me to introduce, or reintroduce you to, Madame Mayhem.

So, you may already know her, but either way we are all about to get reacquainted, because I am just hopping on board the fan train myself. In her own words, “Manhattan-born singer-songwriter, Madame Mayhem, is a true rocker with an eclectic style in every aspect of life.” First and foremost, this statement could not be any truer. I took one look at her and not to stereotype by any means, but I could tell she was a bad-ass chick. I think “Mayhem” is the perfect word to describe her talent, and lifestyle, for she is an “extreme artist.” She has quite the resume under her belt, having opened for Buckcherry, as well as being featured on Clear Channel’s iHeartRadio New Discovered and Uncovered Artist Chart. She has also graced many stages across the country including The Roxy, The Viper Room, Bowery Ballroom, The Knitting Factory, and many more. One of her coolest accomplishments, in my opinion, was also headlining VH1’s That Metal Show annual Christmas part. Well, I think it’s safe to say this lovely lady is well on her way, and there is nothing stopping her from getting to the top.

We also must note that Madame Mayhem has collaborated with some of the biggest names in the business, including Mark Hudson, Earl Slick, and John Moyer. The first video of hers that I checked out to get on board is from her smash hit “Monster.” With her edgy look, soaring vocals and overall rock star vibe, I fell in love instantly. This video showcases her flair perfectly, leaving me wanting more. Her powerhouse vocals carry her songs very well, sucking you in like a vacuum. With her heavy mainstream sound, I don’t see her trying to mimic anything that is out there on the radio now, including bands like Seether, Shinedown, and Three Days Grace. I can see her songs being added in between them on rock radio, for certain, however, she has a style all of her own.

I also took a dive into a few more of her tracks, and you should really take a listen to her discography; all I can say is, you won’t ever find yourself thinking you accidentally hit the repeat button, as each song is distinctly different. I really appreciate that, especially in this genre, because it is a common problem, in which I am sure she would agree with. Her lyrics range from smart, fun, dark, and sexy, with a little twist added to every track.

If you like rock with heavy riffs, melodic song structure, and a female singer who is, in my opinion, one of the best rock vocalists I have heard in a while (comparable to Lzzy Hale), then Madame Mayhem is the right choice for you. She has a few shows coming up including The Studio At Webster Hall in New York City on Nov. 18. I will do my best to get there, because I have to experience her live for the first time in an element which I enjoy. Buy her music now and show this artist some love, because she sure as hell deserves it.

If you want to learn more about Madame Mayhem, access her tunes, get her show dates, and watch those videos, visit her official website at madamemayhem.com. You can also find her on Facebook at Facebook.com/MadameMayhem. I am so happy I have become acquainted with her, because she has truly made my rock senses more pleased than ever. Genuine writing, superb talent, and a killer style, she’s got the whole package.

I will be back next week with some more talent of your liking, so keep on sending in those submissions. After all, “it’s a long way to the top if you wanna rock and roll.” Cheers!