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January 2006 Reviews by
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January 2006 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
January 2006
Comment Piece:
You Can't Say Anything Anymore
People are so easily offended and bothered. One of the silliest things to happen over the past few years is the increasingly intense debate over what holiday greeting you should use at the end of the year and what the holiday tree should be called.
Should you say "Merry Christmas"...? No, because that would offend people who do not believe in Jesus. How about "Happy Holidays"...? No, because that would offend Christians who feel that the birthday of Jesus is being forgotten.
We're still confused as to why non-Christians would be celebrating the holiday season anyway. If you don't believe in Jesus then why the hell are you putting up a goddamn tree and giving gifts...? Oh, we almost forgot. The Christians stole the holiday from the Pagans...so it isn't the real birthday of Jesus in the first place (!). Christmas actually started out as a Pagan holiday. As if any of this matters...
This past December, we decided to use this holiday greeting: "Merry Something Or Other." You'd think that such a silly phrase couldn't possibly offend anyone, right? Wrong. Every single person that we tried this out on seemed very bothered and irritated. Most folks tried to correct us by telling us what phrase we ought to be using.
You'd think that people would understand that--no matter what words folks use--the intent behind the words is to wish others well. Isn't that what really matters...?
It should...but it doesn't. Instead of being warm and cordial to one another, people will continue to bicker and argue over tiny irrelevant things that don't matter one goddamn bit in the big scheme of things. Human beings sure are trivial.
Beginning next year...at the end of 2006...we won't wish anyone anything anymore. It's just not worth the effort.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Keith
John Adams - Pip (CD, Happy
Happy Birthday To Me, Pop)
Britain's Keith John Adams has been making music for some time now...first
with the band The Horse Doctors and later in Zuno Men...before
venturing off into his solo career. Adams writes upbeat catchy pop that
is reminiscent of early Thomas Dolby (the vocals are particularly
Dolby-esque). Pip is not only playful and intriguing...but it also
has remarkable commercial potential. Adams isn't trying to space everyone
out by being overtly weird or obtuse. Instead, this young man chooses to
write music that can be easily absorbed and appreciated. He succeeds on
this album...tossing out fourteen cool and hummable tracks, almost all of
which could easily be hit singles (in a perfect world). Classic tracks include
"Inconsequential Thought," "Never Look Down," "Pip,"
"Boy and Girl," and "Quiet Snow." (Rating: 5+)
Agent
Sparks - Not So Merry (CD EP, Immortal, Rock/pop)
Infectious, upbeat hard pop. Not So Merry is the first release from
this California-based four piece band. The tunes sound something like The
New Pornographers...except much louder and harsher. What is most impressive
about this band is how they are able to play with such energy and volume
while managing to retain critical song elements like melodies and lyrics.
Call it power pop or catchy hard rock...these folks are doing everything
right from the start. Five killer tracks: "It's Not My Time,"
"Mr. Insecurity," "Camouflage," "Choke," and
"So Long, Darlings." This EP is intended to whet folks' appetites
for the band's first full-length coming in 2006. We can't WAIT. (Rating:
5++)
Airport 81 - Put Your Squares Together (CD, Breathing
Room, Synth pop)
Slightly goofy analog pop music with a difference. The folks in Airport
81 write and record danceable pop that sounds something like a cross
between Kraftwerk and Joy Electric. The robotic tunes on the
humorously-titled Put Your Squares Together are wonderfully out of
synch with current trends in music. This might explain why this album is
so refreshing...or it could just be the fact that these folks have come
up with some great songs. This San Diego-based band consists of A-Drive,
Sneaky Pete, and Tape. If you're not into electronic music,
consider this. These folks incorporate real drums and real bass
guitar into their tracks...giving the songs a meaty and inviting human
feel. Uplifting and positive, Put Your Squares Together is a superb
listening experience from start to finish. Top picks: "Bonus Jack,"
"Hectometre," "Square Vehicles on Collision Course,"
"Trouble on the Assembly Line." (Rating: 5+)
Airport
Cathedral - Jetlag (CD, Burning Buildings Recordings, Progressive
pop)
Instantly engaging smart progressive pop. True to comparisons that have
been made by other reviewers, Airport Cathedral is reminiscent of
other artists like Hayden and J. Mascis. Considering the mature
tunes presented, it seems incredible that Jetlag is a debut album
(!). It takes many artists years of recording to come up with something
this solid. Personal and suggestive, these tunes have unusual sticking qualities
that make the listener want to spin them over and over and over.
During the course of these nine tracks, the folks in this eight member band
prove that they are a real force to be reckoned with. Great songs
include "Cure-Alls," "The Tease," "Now I Know,"
"One Step Down," and "Another Day Another Week." Great
stuff. (Rating: 5+)
The
Apparitions - As This Is Futuristic
(Advance CD, Machine,
Rock/pop)
Lexington, Kentucky's The Apparitions return with another entertaining
album. As This Is Futuristic features ten guitar driven pop tunes
with a heavy emphasis on melodies and lyrics. The band consists of Mark
Heidinger, Robbie Roberts, Eric Smith, Robby Cosenza,
and Justin Craig. These five gentlemen play thick involved pop/rock
music that is surprisingly accessible. Following the well-received Oxygen
Think Tank, this album is bound to please the band's growing fan base.
Memorable tracks include "Electricity + Drums," "God Monkey
Robot," "Shapeshifters," and "Positively Charged."
(Rating: 4+++)
Right and wrong.
Wrong and right.
Right and wrong are the same.Good and bad.
Bad and good.
Good and bad are the same.Life and death.
Death and life.
Life and death are the same.Same and same.
Same and same.
Same and same are the same.(Rating: 1)
The
Avett Brothers - Four Thieves Gone: The
Robinsville Sessions (CD, Ramseur, Pop/folk)
Nice organic folky pop. Four Thieves Gone: The Robinsville Sessions
is the third full-length release from this North Carolina-based trio. This
was our first exposure to The Avett Brothers. To be honest, these
fellows almost lost us...because the beginning of the first track ("Talk
On Indolence") is a real turn off. Potential listeners should be forewarned
that the rest of the album is infinitely superior to the initial rappish
fastspeaking. Fortunately patience paid off. The longer we listened, the
better the album got. So much so that by the end of these seventeen tracks
we were absolutely in love with most of them. Scott and Seth Avett
and Bob Crawford make wonderfully genuine and sincere music. Their
folky pop is infused with subtle elements of bluegrass. The words and melodies
are real and sung from the heart. There are several cuts on Four Thieves
Gone that are likely to become classics in the years ahead. Stunning
creations include "Sixteen In July," "A Lover Like You,"
"The Fall," "Dancing Daze," and "Four Thieves Gone."
Includes a nifty lyric booklet. Great stuff. (Rating: 5+)
The
Beatings - Holding On To Hand Grenades
(CD, Midriff, Rock)
Most really noisy bands sound the same. In their quest for hip status in
the underground community, far too many bands place songwriting second in
their drive to abuse and destroy eardrums with volume. The folks in The
Beatings manage to be abrasive and noisy...while still presenting songs
with real substance. Perhaps more importantly, their hearts seem to be in
the right place. You can tell by the playing and singing on Holding On
To Hand Grenades that the folks in this band love what they are
doing. The Pixies' influence can be a bit intense at times...but
hey, just as is the case with all those bands who want to sound like The
Ramones, if you're going to borrow from a band why not borrow from the
best...? Far from being a copycat band, The Beatings use Frank
Black's songwriting style as a diving board for their own cool creations.
Sixteen cool rockers here including "A Responsible Person," "Feel
Good Ending," "Oh Shit, My Phaser's Jammed," and "Burn
Down the Jungle." (Rating: 4++++)
Beaumont - No Time Like the Past (CD, Siesta,
Soft pop)
Soft, progressive, seductive music. This British band was formed from fragments
of the bands Blueboy and Arabesque. No Time Like the Past,
Beaumont's third album, is a refreshing collection of soft understated
pop with a heavy emphasis on lyrics and melodies. Paul Stewart's
tunes are effective and instantly memorable...and Cath Close's vocals
capture the spirit of the music perfectly with her subtle yet inventive
lyrical imagery. What really pushes these tracks to the next level is the
impressive restraint used in the recording process. Instead of overdubbing
and multi-tracking everything to death, these folks had the good sense to
keep things simple and direct. And this is what makes No Time Like the
Past so thoroughly effective. Beautiful tunes include "Finding
You," "Next To Nothing," "Blind Spot," and "Red
Red Petals." A classy digipak sleeve with lyric booklet completes the
package. Superb. (Rating: 5++)
Bedsit Poets - The Summer That Changed (CD, Bongo
Beat, Soft pop)
Bedsit Poets is the duo of Edward Rogers and Amanda Thorpe.
The Summer That Changed is a beautifully intoxicating collection
of soft, dreamy pop. Rather than record songs that fit into any one particular
sound or style, Rogers and Thorpe create music that is classic and timeless.
The lyrics are particularly poignant and effective. By touching on thoughts
and emotions that almost everyone can relate to, these folks manage to strike
real emotional chords. The intricate arrangements fit the tunes perfectly,
giving the album a nice airy feel. Recalling music from a simpler place
and time, The Summer That Changed is intelligent and engaging from
start to finish. Top picks: "February Kisses," "Reach For
The Sky," "Round and Round," "Let It Rain." (Rating:
4++++)
The
Bosch - Buy One Get One (Independently
released CD EP, Rock)
New York quartet The Bosch made the right decision to head to Lexington,
Kentucky to record this lengthy EP. Produced by Duane Lundy, Buy
One Get One is a cool hard rock experience. Blasting out of the gates
with the harsh and catchy "Come On Phillie," these guys provide
nine intense garage rockers played with gusto and style. The band consists
of Brett Beyer, Andrew Raff, Matthew Harrison, and
Holt Richardson. These guys write great songs and they play like
they mean it. Buy One Get One is proof positive that The Bosch
is a band to watch. Classy tracks include "Metronome," "Back
to the Laboratory," and "Tell the Doctor." (Rating: 5+)
Bracket
- Requiem (CD, Takeover,
Pop/rock)
We've been big fans of Bracket ever since the band released their
debut album in the early 1990s. Despite the fact that they toured a great
deal and released fantastic albums in the nineties, they never managed to
shake their cult status. Eventually opting to build their own mobile recording
studio in a trailer, the band decided to take matters into their own hands.
Requiem is the first studio album to be recorded in the new studio.
It contains all the power pop elements that have always made Bracket's music
such a delight. Sprinkled throughout the album are some surprising elements
(slight classical fragments and orchestrated vocal pieces) that may surprise
some of the band's fans. Continuing in their mission to present as many
different songs as possible for the mysteriously invisible Warren
character, the album features seventeen tracks...all of which were
named after the man. Bracket's punchy power pop sounds as great as it did
when the band first began...and their vocal harmonies just keep getting
better. Hopefully this album marks the beginning of a new era in Bracket's
career. These guys deserve more attention than they've gotten thus far.
(Rating: 5++)
Meredith
Bragg and the Terminals - The Departures
(CD EP, Kora, Soft pop)
More pensive, thoughtful, melodic soft pop from rising star Meredith
Bragg. Recorded by Chad Clark and T.J. Lippie in Arlington,
Virginia, The Departures features five understated compositions that
showcase Bragg's gift for penning intelligent melodies and heartfelt lyrics.
We were impressed as hell with Meredith's debut album (Volume 1)...and
we have the same reaction to this EP. After hearing these tracks, we can't
wait to hear the next full-length. Features "Empty Beds,"
"Take Me Down," "Let's Start Over," "Postcard From
Boston," and "Two Blue Lights." Beautiful. (Rating: 5+)
Buzzcocks - Live at Shepherds Bush Empire 2003 (DVD, Music Video Distributors
/ Secret Films)
Peter Shelley of The Buzzcocks was easily the smartest of the original
wave of British punk songwriters of the 1970s. Forming a perfect fusion
of bubblegum and punk, Shelley defined his own sound and vision in such
a way that he had no competitors. During the first phase of the band's career
they had a good deal of success in England...but never had a hit in the
United States. Shelley eventually embarked on a solo career that was ultimately
not as well received (although some of his solo material was fantastic).
Because of renewed interest in The Buzzcocks over time, Shelley eventually
revived the band. This DVD features the new Buzzcocks in concert in 2003.
The band cranks out 32 tunes, most of which are from the 1970s albums. Unlike
other bands from the past, the band plays with gusto and style...making
songs that are now three decades old sound fresh and new again. It's interesting
that the majority of new Buzzcocks fans seem to be very young. It's a treat
seeing Pete present all the hits in surround sound...but it's also a bit
disappointing when one stops to realize that the band's creative output
since the 1970s just hasn't been that impressive. This concert would have
been much more balanced if there were more familiar recent tunes thrown
into the mix. Thus, this is not the ultimate Buzzcocks experience. It's
a good view...but the band doesn't have the same spark they once had. All
the DVD extras are, as usual, throwaway footage. In our minds, The Buzzcocks
will always be one of our top favorite British acts from the 1970s. But
we'd sure like to see them come up with a fantastic new studio album at
some point in time... (Rating: 4+++)
Cake
On Cake - I See No Stars (CD, Desolation, Progressive
pop)
Cake On Cake is the one-woman Swedish band consisting of Helena
Sundin. I See No Stars, Sundin's debut album, is an instantly
engaging and intriguing listening experience. Helena's unconventional approach
is obvious in both her writing and recording. While inviting and easy on
the ears, her songs are just slightly peculiar and offbeat. The unusual
arrangements incorporate metallophone, marimba, flute, tablas, kazoo, claves,
triangle, mandolin, and odd electronics. There aren't many artists we can
think of whose material sounds even slightly similar to Cake On Cake...except
perhaps some of the more subdued and pensive tunes recorded by Yoko Ono
(the vocals are particularly reminiscent of Ono). Subdued and strange, I
See No Stars is uniquely pleasant. Cool cuts include "Dreams Will
Come True," "Animals and Humans," "No Spring,"
and "Tomorrows Taken." (Rating: 5++)
Cats
& Jammers - Whole Lotta Goddamn
(CD, Scotch Hell, Pop/rock)
Combining the sound of The Buzzcocks with early Young Fresh Fellows,
the fellows in Chicago's Cats & Jammers keep getting better and
better. Scott Anthony, Addison Monroe, and Paul Medrano
play simple three piece rock music that is highly reminiscent of bands from
the early to mid-1980s. The songs are short and to-the-point and feature
wonderfully insightful lyrics that are often hilarious. The band's melodies
and hooks are what ultimately rule, however...as songs are the strongest
link here. Whole Lotta Goddamn features smart, effervescent tunes
that would make Scott McCaughey proud. The guys in this band play
with such sincere youthful enthusiasm and excitement that it's almost impossible
not to love them. Fun memorable cuts include "Rock and Roll
Invasion," "Will I Die Young?", "Propaganda Slaves,"
and "Stabitty Stabitty Stab Stab Stab." (Rating: 5)
Michael
Dean Church - Live It Out Loud (CD,
Sharp Objects, Country/pop
Having built up his career playing in Georgia nightclubs, young Michael
Dean Church eventually dumped the Peach State and moved to Nashville...possibly
the smartest move for an up-and-coming country artist. Shortly afterward,
Church hooked up with Steven Sharp...the two headed off to Buck
Owens' recording studio in Bakersfield, California...and Live It
Out Loud was born. Church comes from the old school of country music...the
era when most singers interpreted tunes written by others. Church and Sharp
chose eleven upbeat easygoing tunes for this album...all of which spotlight
Church's clean, masculine voice. The recordings are slick, but never too
slick. This is a very early release from this young man...recorded before
his voice and image have been manipulated by the corporate music monster.
As such, the album is a bit more real than country releases one normally
hears on major labels. Cool tracks include "Live It Out Loud,"
"What Am I Crying For" (our favorite), "Is That You,"
and "Burned By the Same Fire Twice." (Rating: 4++++)
Cinderpop - Their Skies Are Beautiful (CD, Bongo
Beat, Pop)
The second album from Vancouver, Canada's Cinderpop. The fellows
in this band play melodic pop rock in the same vein as 1980s artists like
Game Theory and Chris Stamey (more the former than the latter).
The guitar-driven tunes on Their Skies Are Beautiful feature beautifully
gliding melodic lines and exceptional vocals. Don't expect to be blown away
immediately however. You may have to spin this sucker several times in order
to tear the meat from the bones. With a little patience and concentration,
however, you are likely to be graciously rewarded. Cerebral, slightly hallucinogenic
tracks include "Bastian Cooper," "Minds Eye," "Mishapen,"
and "Airless." Great stuff. (Rating: 5+)
The
Class of 98 - Touch This and Die (Advance
CD, The Militia Group,
Pop/rock)
Instantly satisfying power pop. The fellows in Nashville-based The Class
of 98 did not graduate in 1998...nor are they originally from Nashville.
Instead, these four young men moved to Nashville in search of fame. Based
on Touch This and Die, they have already achieved their goal. This
is an impressive album in more ways than one. The songs would be great anyway,
but they are even more impressive when you consider the fact that this debut
was recorded by the band in their own home studio. Just goes to show what
you can achieve with a little energy and determination. The tunes on this
album recall artists like The Gigolo Aunts. The guitars are loud
and the rhythms fierce and intense...but the driving forces are the melodies
and lyrics. Main songwriter Steve Wilson really knows how to chain
smart hooks together to create a big wall of ultra-catchy hard pop. The
vocal harmonies are fantastic throughout. This classy debut features twelve
tracks including "Everywhere You Go," "Hundreds and Thousands
of Stars," "Anthem For Us," and "Highway H." (Rating:
5+)
Colosseum - The Complete Reunion Concert: Cologne 1994 (DVD, Angel Air Waves)
Begun in the 1960s, the guys in Colosseum burned out rather quickly
and disbanded in 1971. This DVD features the band's reunion concert...23
years later (!)...in Cologne. Colosseum is/was Jon Hiseman,
Chris Farlowe, Dick Heckstall-Smith, Clem Clempson,
Mark Clarke, and Dave Greenslade. The band begins with a lengthy
and speedy instrumental ("Those About To Die") before vocalist
Farlowe joins in with his odd bluesy presence. Chris provides the perfect
visual focal point (he's a strange one to watch), while the musicians show
why each has become legendary in their own careers. Colosseum truly
was the perfect merging of blues with progressive rock. The rhythm section
is dense and thick...while the heady guitars and keyboards drive the music
forward. In addition to the concert, this DVD includes a 90 minute documentary
entitled "The Story of Colosseum." This is recommended for fans
of the band as well as anyone interested in progressive rock bands from
the twentieth century. Good entertainment value here. (Rating: 4++++)
Chris
De Burgh - The Road To Freedom (German
import CD, SPV USA, Progressive
orchestrated pop)
The fourteenth studio album from Chris De Burgh. The Road To Freedom
presents eleven new original compositions which feature De Burgh's trademark
orchestrated pop. The album begins with the beautiful (mostly instrumental)
"When Winter Comes"...before launching into the haunting, ethereal
"The Road To Freedom." DeBurgh writes classic pop songs that feature
incredibly intricate arrangements. Unlike others with lengthy careers, De
Burgh shows no signs of burning out. His songs remain strong, his voice
is as resonant and effective as ever, and his lyrics are still exceptional.
This highly stylized collection of tunes includes "Snow Is Falling,"
"Five Past Dreams," "Rose Of England," and more. At
about the same time this album was released, De Burgh has also released
a double live CD (Live In Dortmund). Talk about prolific (!)...
(Rating: 5)
Delta 5 - Singles & Sessions 1979-1981 (CD, Kill
Rock Stars, Jagged rock)
Spawned from the post punk fragments of Leeds, England (which also gave
us the more widely known Gang of Four), Delta 5 is an obscure
delight. Singles & Sessions 1979-1981 is, in fact, the first
recordings by the band to ever be made commercially available in the United
States. Folks into bands from this time period are likely to get big thrills
from this CD. While the tunes do sound somewhat dated, the style and sound
remain effective and gripping. Like the previously mentioned Gang of Four,
Delta 5 tunes feature throbbing danceable rhythms and jagged, skewed guitars.
The vocals are strangely distant...and some of the lyrics are rather hilarious.
This disc features sixteen cool, perplexing rockers that have stood the
test of time. Top picks: "Mind Your Own Business," "Now That
You've Gone," "Colour," "Innocenti," "Singing
the Praises," "Journey." (Rating: 5+)
All that we are
Is dolly mucous.
All that we can be
Is dolly mucous.I fell in love with
Dolly mucous.She followed me home
Like hocus pukus.She met at the corner
Of holly polly.She stared at the stump
Of hoity toity.(Rating: 1)
Liz
Durrett - The Mezzanine (CD, Warm Electronic Recordings,
Soft pop)
Originally a resident of Rome, Georgia, Liz Durrett has had an unconventional
musical career thus far. Many years ago she recorded her first album...but
then put it away and went into musical exile. The album was eventually issued
by the folks at Warm Electronic Recordings...and was so warmly received
that it prompted Durrett to record a second album. Produced by Vic Chesnutt,
The Mezzanine is a beautiful, soft, intricate collection of tunes
that recalls artists like Linda Draper and Azure Ray. Liz
has a remarkable voice...which sounds unbelievable when she layers it with
her own harmonies. Her tunes are centered around a softly strummed and plucked
guitar...while subtle, sometimes spooky arrangements add richness to the
sound. But it is the tunes themselves that make The Mezzanine so
effective. While this album is too soft and strange to be grasped by the
general public...it is bound to be universally applauded by critics and
underground music fans. Killer cuts include "Knives at the Wall,"
"Creepyaskudzu," "Marlene," "Shivering Assembly,"
and "In The Throes." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Electric President - Electric President (CD, Morr
Music, Progressive pop)
Cool melodic underground pop music. Electric President is Ben
Cooper and Alex Kane. Cooper writes computer driven pop music
that retains nice organic qualities. His soft understated voice is nothing
like what one normally associates with electronic music...extremely subtle.
The songs on this album are, for the most part, uplifting and positive.
Although Cooper and Kane created this album themselves on their laptop computers,
great care was taken in recording the arrangements. Don't expect lo-fi pop,
however. These don't sound like home recordings at all. The overall
sound is very professional and polished. When these guys hit home runs,
they really score points. "Grand Machine No. 12" and "We
Were Never Built To Last" are exceedingly well-written compositions.
Intriguing stuff. (Rating: 5)
Good
Evening - I Saw the Sun Explode (Independently
released CD EP, Progressive pop)
The gentlemen in Good Evening provide a truly rewarding listening
experience. Rather than ape sounds and styles created by others, these four
individuals have created their own unique vision. I Saw the Sun Explode
features five tunes that don't sound like anyone else in recent memory.
By combining the predictable with the unpredictable, these folks have managed
to come up with a perplexing yet thoroughly engaging EP. The melodies are
complex and unorthodox...the arrangements full of subtle tweaking and creativity...and
the vocals are absolutely fantastic. A successful EP is one that makes the
listener want to hear more. That is exactly how we felt after spinning
this disc. Five tunes here: "Early," "Faster," "The
Spark I Was," "Go On," and "Backbone." Fascinating
stuff that is truly worth seeking out. (Rating: 5+)
Go
West - Kings of Wishful Thinking - LIVE
(DVD, Angel Air Waves)
The 1980s hitmakers Go West reunion concert from 2003. The band got
together in large part because of a well-received appearance by Peter
Cox on the British television show Reborn in the USA in 2003.
We must confess that we were never big fans of Go West songs...and this
concert doesn't do much to change our opinion. It does, however, show why
so many music fans were probably drawn to this band. The songs are upbeat,
danceable, simple, catchy, and easy on the ears. The concert is--in typical
1980s fashion--rather flashy and disco-esque. If you're a fan of the band,
this is an absolutely essential release. This is a very slick, polished,
professionally prepared DVD. This lengthy concert features seventeen tracks.
Additional material includes an interview with Cox and Richard Drummie
as well as a history of the band. (Rating: 4)
Grand
National - Kicking the National Habit
(Import CD, Sunday Best
/ Recall Group, Pop)
Since the United Kingdom release of Kicking the National Habit in
2004, the guys in Grand National have made quite a splash in the
world of music. The album will be released for the first time in the United
States in February 2006 (with seven additional bonus tracks). Grand National
is Rupert Lyddon and Lawrence "La" Rudd. Lyddon
and Rudd write and record smooth danceable pop music that is reminiscent
of 1980s pop artists New Order. The beats are steady, the synthesizers
precise and determined, and the vocals smooth and superb. The tunes on this
album are extremely melodic and upbeat, the recordings super slick and accessible.
Unlike many new artists, Lyddon and Rudd write potential hits. They aren't
trying to be overly clever and they aren't trying to re-invent music. Instead,
these guys write pure, simple, direct songs that are easy on the ears...and
obviously danceable. Instantly infectious, Kicking the National Habit
features seventeen killer tracks including "Drink To Moving On,"
"Playing In The Distance," "North Sound Off," and "Litter
Bin." (Rating: 5++)
Guitar Wolf - Golden Black (CD, Narnack,
Rock)
Golden Black is a best of collection featuring a whopping 26 tracks
by the legendary Guitar Wolf. The songs on this album were chosen
by the fans themselves who voted for their favorites in an online poll.
Folks either love or hate this band...and this album won't change minds
on either side of the fence. These guys play extremely hard and noisy rock
that is not for the faint of heart. As such, these overdriven harsh tunes
will only appeal to those who like it really raw and nasty. In addition
to some of the band's more well-known tracks, this collection also features
rare and out-of-print cuts. Includes "Loverock," "Jet Generation,"
"Murder By Rock," "Sparkle Baby," and a whole lot more.
Long live Guitar Wolf. (Rating: 5)
Half-Handed
Cloud - Halos & Lassos (CD, Asthmatic Kitty, Pop)
Good luck keeping up with John Ringhofer. As the sole member of the
band Half-Handed Cloud, Ringhofer offers superbly intelligent and
mostly unpredictable underground pop music. John packed a lot into this
album...a whopping nineteen short tracks that clock in at less than 30 minutes
(!). This man is anything but another predictable underground popster. His
day job as a church custodian apparently allows him the time and energy
to really put his heart and soul into his music. The tunes on Halos &
Lassos are built around the odd rhythms produced by a 1980s instrument
called the Omnichord. Ringhofer plays piano, banjo, melodian, guitar, bass,
trombone, bell-kit, marimba, and sings. He is accompanied on this album
by percussionist Brandon Buckner and Wendy Buckner on bass
clarinet. Slightly goofy and ultimately thought provoking, the involved
topics on this album only become obvious after several spins. The song titles
are just...great. (Rating: 5+)
The
Handsome Charlies - Gentlemen Never Tell
(CD, I Eat Records, Pop)
Originally from Sydney, Australia, The Handsome Charlies now call
Austin, Texas their home. Rather than playing harsh underground noise, the
fellows in this band play melodic mid-tempo pop music that is super smooth
and instantly accessible. Gentlemen Never Tell is a mature sounding
album, especially when you consider the fact that this is the band's debut.
The songs are catchy, upbeat, and radio friendly. The arrangements are often
thick and complex, involving a wide variety of instruments and sounds. Happy,
intelligent tracks include "Mistakes," "Makes Me Love You,"
"Eighty-One," "Dark Prince," and "Perfect."
The vocals are exceptional. (Rating: 4++++)
The
Hellacopters - Rock & Roll Is Dead
(Advance CD, Liquor and
Poker Music, Rock)
The guys in The Hellacopters have earned a reputation as one of the
best rock and roll bands on the planet for one simple reason. They really
and truly are one of the best rock and roll bands on the planet.
Rock & Roll Is Dead is the band's sixth proper studio album.
Just as was the case on previous albums, these guys play music straight
from the hip. By avoiding unnecessary frills and overdubs, this Australian
band succeeds where others fail. Songwriting is key to the band's success.
Their tunes are simple and direct...instantly catchy and immediately danceable.
In addition to garnering the band even more fans, Rock & Roll Is
Dead is sure to please the band's original followers. Kickass rockers
include "Before the Fall," "Bring It On Home," "Murder
On My Mind," "Nothing Terribly New," and "Time Got No
Time To Wait For Me." (Rating: 5+)
His Name Is Alive - Detrola (CD, Silver Mountain, Progressive pop/rock)
Few bands have had such an unusual career path as His Name Is Alive.
The band now consists of founding member Warn Defever and a variety
of friends lending helping hands. In terms of styles, Detrola goes
all over the place. Instead of going for one sound or style, Defever dabbles
in obtuse cross sections of music...interpreting and reinventing different
art forms. As a result, this album has a somewhat schizophrenic sound overall.
One thing is certain, this definitely won't be the album to hoist
the band into the mainstream. The songs are, for the most part, too peculiar
for the general public. Moody and ethereal, these eleven songs seem to have
been created from pure artistic integrity. Strange heady progressive pop
tracks include "After I Leave U," "In My Dreams," "You
Need a Heart," and "Send My Face." (Rating: 5)
Hooked...Get
It On (Line) (DVD, Eclectic
DVD / Babalu Pictures)
Hooked...Get It On (Line) is a documentary created by director Todd
Ahlberg. The film covers a topic which has rarely been dealt with in
the media...homosexuals and their addiction to pornography via the internet.
Whether straight or homosexual, men of all types have always been drawn
in by pornography. This is nothing new. But now the lure of an easy fix
is more tempting than ever because of the sheer amount of pornography...and
potential encounters...made available because of the interconnectivity of
home computers. This documentary has no narration...only the words of the
addicts themselves as they give braggish examples of their frequent and
varied sexual encounters. The word "game" is used frequently.
The individuals interviewed seem to be lackiing in self-confidence. Most
admit that their encounters are a short term solution to the real problem...loneliness.
Ahlberg does a good job of presenting homosexuals as most of them really
are...isolated, addicted to sex, and very alienated from the world. With
all those godawful pride parades and marches, some people think that the
homosexual community is full of carefree, happy-go-lucky individuals. But
nothing could be further from the truth. Sad and perplexing, Hooked...Get
It On (Line) is an intriguing reminder of how superficial and phony
real people can be. (Rating: 4++++)
Come and dance,
Little Tacky.
Come and dance the shaker.Take your trance pills,
Little Tacky.
Take your pills and run.Little Tacky
Tastes his snacky,
Takes his snacky home.
Little Tacky
Whupped like yacky,
Snips his rosy cone.(Rating: 1)
Lords
of Altamont - Lords Have Mercy (CD,
Gearhead, Rock)
Lords of Altamont is a band driven by the vocal dynamics of Jake
Cavaliere who was formerly in the bands The Finks, The Witch
Doctors, The Go-Nuts, Untamed Youth, The Fuzztones,
and The Cramps. Lords Have Mercy is this band's second full-length
release. Featuring eleven blistering hard rock tracks, the album is a hard
rocking spin full of loud fuzzed out rock tracks. Combining elements of
punk with 1960s garage rock and modern hard rock, these guys manage to hit
the target dead on with every track. Great guitars collide with snotty vocals
and unrelenting rhythms to produce a great big whirlwind of rock and roll
fun. Hard driving cuts include "Cyclone," "Let's Burn,"
"Project Blue," "$4.95," and "Time Has Come."
Great stuff. (Rating: 5)
Troy Lukkarila - Unsafe Structure (CD, LukaLips
Destruction Co., Obtuse pop)
This CD first caught our attention because Rebecca Zapan (one of
our favorite artists of the twenty-first century) plays and sings on it.
But we opted to review Unsafe Structure because the first track ("When
You Get Home") had us laughing so hard that we almost fell off our
comfy office chairs. You'll have to hear the lyrics on this song to believe
it. Florida's Troy Lukkarila is a very strange recording artist.
Sounding something like a bizarre underground American version of Neil
Innes (but not really), Lukkarila is...first and foremost...a comedian.
His extraordinarily loose recordings feature goofy stream-of-consciousness
lyrics that are often hilarious...and almost always unusual. Because of
the experimental nature of these recordings, it is difficult to rate something
like this. So instead of rating this album, we'll leave it up to you, the
listeners. Is Troy a mere weirdo goofball...or is he a modern genius...?
Only time will tell... (Not Rated)
The
M's - Future Women (CD, Polyvinyl Record Company, Pop)
The subdued cover art of Future Women would never lead one to believe
that this Chicago quartet writes and records brilliantly upbeat power pop.
The band's second full-length is one big exciting melodic BLAST. In the
band's brief career thus far, they have managed to score an opening spot
for Wilco...and now they've hooked up with the well-known Polyvinyl
label. Future Women is chock full of soaring melodies and thick,
absorbing arrangements. Produced by the band themselves, the album shows
what some bands are capable of when they are given total creative control.
While the band's tunes recall classic pop artists from the 1960s and 1970s,
this is definitely not an excursion into the past. While fans of
The Zombies and The Kinks are almost certain to latch onto
this album, it is just as likely to strike positive chords with young fans.
Future Women lacks the ultra-polished sound that many may be accustomed
to these days...and that just makes it better. Killer tracks include
"Plan of the Man," "Going Over It," "Never Do This
Again," and "Darling Lucia." (Rating: 5+)
Magnet
- The Tourniquet (Advance CD-R, Filter
US Recordings, Progressive pop)
Magnet is Even Johanssen, a Norwegian recording artist who
successfully combines electronics with traditional instruments to create
smoothly organic sounding modern pop. Johanssen has previously released
three EPs (Where Happiness Lives, Chasing Dreams, The Day
We Left Town) and a debut full-length (On Your Side). The
Tourniquet was recorded with assistance from Jason Falkner (of
Jellyfish)...which may explain the lush, elaborate arrangements on
these tunes. For such a young artist, Even writes and records songs that
are surprisingly mature and focused. His melodies soar...and his soft, subdued
vocals are remarkable. The lyrics are heartfelt and sincere throughout.
Easily one of the best soft progressive pop albums of the past few months,
The Tourniquet is a richly rewarding experience. Top picks: "Hold
On," "Deadlock (It's Over)," "Blow By Blow," "Jaws."
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Make A Rising - Rip Through the Hawk Black Night (CD, High
Two, Obtuse art pop)
Very weird, very artsy stuff. You have to appreciate a band making music
that is certain to alienate almost everyone. Philadelphia's Make A Rising
is a band on a peculiar mission. Rather than sounding like anything or anyone
familiar, these folks write and record confusing and difficult compositions
that recall some of the stranger British art rock bands from the 1970s.
The result is a confusing hodge podge of ideas. Rip Through the Hawk
Black Night sounds something like a modern Athens, Georgia band if they
were combining modern classical with indie pop. The first track ("Look
At My Hawk") alone contains so many ideas and song fragments that most
listeners are likely to be overwhelmed. But is this great music...or is
it just strange and offbeat? The truth is that...this album is a little
of both. By allowing themselves so much room to experiment, these
folks often go off the deep end. But this is ultimately what makes this
such a unique listening experience. Crazy tracks include "Plastic Giant,"
"Expired Planet," and "Partial Thoughts." Truly odd.
(Rating: 5)
Mask - Heavy Petal: The Tenebrous Odyssey of Jack and Virginia
(CD/DVD, Nova, Atmospheric)
Mask is the duo of Sonja Kristina and Marvin Ayres.
Heavy Petal: The Tenebrous Odyssey of Jack and Virginia is a beautifully
packaged CD/DVD set featuring a single disc (CD on one side, DVD on the
other). Many folks will remember Sonja Kristina as the lead singer
of the critically acclaimed Curved Air, one of the more uniquely
spooky progressive rock bands of the 1970s. Marvin Ayres is a solo recording
artist and producer who is probably best known as a founding member of the
1980s band The Government. While neither of these artists' names
are known to the general public, both have been on the fringes of fame for
many years...each having worked with some rather high profile celebrities.
This double-sided disc is, in a word...fantastic. The CD features
fifteen compositions...most of which are atmospheric, surreal, and creepy.
There are a few songs with at least a moderate amount of commercial appeal.
The others...are purely artistic endeavors in which Kristina and Ayres create
sonic masterpieces that are dreamy and peculiar. The DVD side of the disc
is as effective as the album itself. Rather than taking the usual boring
approach, these folks have created some rather inspiring and unusual visuals
to accompany three of their songs ("Free," "Lambent Spire,"
"Healing Senses"). These videos feature plenty of wild kaleidoscopic
hallucinogenic images that fit the music perfectly. "Healing Senses"
is particularly appealing...as it focuses on the simple beauty of the sky
and the sun as it is seen through a large tree blowing in the wind. If you've
never tripped before well...this is the next best thing. The blurring image
of the tree dissolving into night will give you chills. While we'd
love to proclaim that Heavy Petal will be a huge success....we know
better. Because of the album's peculiar nature it is likely to be appreciated
by a very small segment of the population. But that very small segment is
likely to be...overwhelmed by this incredible project. We can only
hope there will be more Mask projects in the coming years... Highly recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)
Modern
Skirts - Catalogue of Generous Men (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The guys in Modern Skirts don't fit the general mold of an Athens,
Georgia band. Instead of playing guitar pop, these fellows play piano pop
in the same general vein as Ben Folds. Catalogue of Generous Men
is a catchy, upbeat experience full of peppy pop tunes. The first track
("N.Y. Song") is so good that it is bound to be covered by artists
in the years to come. While this may not be the band's definitive album,
it captures these fellows in their formative creative stage...as their career
is just getting off the ground. Plenty of fine tunes here including "Pasadena,"
"September Days," "Save Me," and "Ring the Bell."
(Rating: 4+++)
Motorhead - Stage Fright (Double DVD, SPV
USA)
A mind blowing live concert from one of the most influential hard rock bands
of all time. Bands that have been at it as long as these guys have usually
burn out or lose their fire. But in this concert filmed in 2004 in Dusseldorf,
the guys in Motorhead prove that they can still deliver the goods.
From a technical point of view, this is one of the most professional
and slick DVD concerts we have seen. The sound quality is superb throughout...and
the editing from all the various camera angles provides several different
perspectives. What is particularly interesting is the crowd. Instead of
a bunch of old farts gathered together to worship their idols from their
teen years, the fans at this show are extremely young...proving that Motorhead
is not just a curiosity for aging rockers. Focal and vocal centerpiece
Lemmy Kilmister still shouts/sings with impressive urgency. Guitarist
Phillip Campbell plays solid, macho riveting riffs...and makes it
all look so goddamn easy while he struts around the stage. Drummer Mikkey
Dee's drum kit has more cymbals than anyone could ever really need...and
he constantly plays in a crazed style a la Keith Moon. The entire
band is surrounded by so many Marshall amps that it is almost embarrassing.
Listening to this powerhouse trio play, it seems almost impossible that
there are only three musicians. These guys play for the crowd...rather
than at them. By the end of the show, everyone seems happy as hell.
If you're tired of DVDs that feature second rate footage of crummy bands,
Stage Fright will immediately capture your attention. Twenty killer
concert pleasers. The second disc is somewhat of a throwaway, featuring
"bonus" footage...but that's no biggie. Just leave it in the case
and watch the first disc until your ears start to bleed. A killer concert
from Britain's classic hard rockers. (Rating: 5++)
Chris
Murphy - Elbow Room (CD, Popboomerang, Pop)
Chris Murphy is, at least at this point, best known as a member of
the popular Australian band The Rhymes. Elbow Room is his
first solo album, and it's a keeper. Murphy claims to have been heavily
influenced by the first Crowded House album, and it shows. Many of
the tunes on this album recall Neil Finn's earlier pop compositions.
Chris keeps things simple with his smooth melodic guitar pop. If they had
been released at the time, these songs could have fit very comfortably along
with many of the most popular college radio hits of the 1980s. This classy
collection includes "Movie Star Beautiful," "World and Universe,"
"Confide," "Falling Apart," and more. Good stuff. (Rating:
4+++)
New
Radiant Storm King - The Steady Hand
(CD, Darla, Pop)
An excellent blast of modern progressive pop. The first new album from New
Radiant Storm King in five years, The Steady Hand is handsome,
solid, and inventive. The band now consists of original members Peyton
Pinkerton and Matt Hunter who are joined by new members Caleb
Wetmore and Patrick Berkery. Underground rock and pop fans will
have a field day with this album. The influences are varied and far reaching
and the tunes are absorbing and unique. Produced by Mark Alan Miller,
The Steady Hand features thirteen slick progressive cuts. The songs
are not easy spins but neither are they difficult to digest. By combining
smooth gliding melody lines with often complex arrangements, these fellows
create music that is simultaneously imaginative and relaxing. The best part
is that the more you spin these tunes...the better they get. Fantastic
tracks include "The Winding Staircase," "Fighting Off the
Pricks," "Hands and Eyes," and "Come On and Let Yourself
Win." Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
New York Dolls - All Dolled Up: Films by Bob Gruen and Nadya Beck (DVD,
Music Video Distributors)
A remarkably effective look back at the New York Dolls. David
Johansen, Arthur Kane, Jerry Nolan, Sylvain Sylvain,
and Johnny Thunders hit their prime for only a short time, releasing
one great album (New York Dolls) and one very good album (Too
Much Too Soon). The band splintered into oblivion soon after, but not
before leaving an indelible mark on rock and roll history. During the highest
peak in the band's career, Bob Gruen and Nadya Beck were there...taping
as much as they could with video cameras. As such, this DVD plays like what
it is...home videos of an underground band on the verge of hitting it big.
Although shot in black and white, the quality is excellent overall...and
even the sound during the concerts is good. This DVD does not attempt to
explain anything. There is no narrator (thank God) and no attempt
is made to tie everything together. Instead, what we have here is a document
of the band at their peak. The video says it all. Not only did Gruen and
Beck shoot the band in concert but they also captured lots of behind-the-scenes
footage of the guys just being themselves. There are some priceless moments
here...not the least of which is a concerned young girl reminding Thunders
to remember to take his vitamins (haw haw!). The band members smoke
up a storm (in more ways than one), fidget with their hair almost constantly,
and really ham it up for the camera. After viewing this, not only do you
get the feeling that you know what it was like being at a New York Dolls
concert...but you also feel as if you actually got to know the band personally.
In addition to the disc, this package features a beautiful 16-page booklet
filled with color photos. A lengthy loving tribute to one of the best..and
most influential...bands of the 1970s. WELL DONE. (Rating: 5++)
...Nous
Non Plus - ...Nous Non Plus (CD, Aeronaut, Pop)
Really great upbeat escapist dance pop. ...Nous Non Plus was formed
from fragments of Les Sans Culottes. As such, they are continuing
with the same basic mission...writing and recording what sounds like
French pop...but really isn't. This band seems more groove oriented
than Les Sans Culottes. The rhythms are more dance friendly and direct.
Simultaneously hilarious and catchy, the tunes on this debut album are incredibly
effective...each sticking with the listener like mental super glue. The
band consists of Celine Dijon, Jean-Luc Retard, Bonnie
Day, Cal d'Hommage, Professeur Harry Covert, Morris
"Mars" Chevrolet, and Francois Hardonne. Far from being
a mere joke band, the folks in ...Nous Non Plus are providing high quality
music that is unique and hypnotic. Ultra creative tracks include "L'Amant,"
"Lawnmower Boy," "Monokini," and "La Ballade de
Tourette." Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Orange Mothers - Greatest Hits (CD, I
Eat Records, Pop)
Local Austin-based band Orange Mothers never got much recognition
outside of their home turf...but it's not because they didn't deserve it.
This greatest hits collection features an overview of the band's career.
The fourteen song collection showcases the band's oddball quirky pop music.
The loose slightly goofy cuts on this album are not only funny...but they
have strange staying power. Long after you've laughed at the lyrics, you
may very well find yourself humming the band's tunes to yourself as you
go about your daily routine. Orange Mothers were decidedly out-of-synch
with other Austin bands of the 1990s...which may help to explain why they
didn't receive as much recognition. This delightful disc includes "Heaven,"
"Love Birds," "Candy Clover," "Rudy," "Promised
Land," and "Nancy." (Rating: 4++++)
Patty
Hurst Shifter - Too Crowded on the Losing
End (CD, Evo, Pop/rock)
No fancy stuff here...just good, solid rock/pop tunes from this Raleigh,
North Carolina-based quartet. Too Crowded on the Losing End is the
band's second full-length. The album is chock full of radio-friendly guitar
pop. Much to the band's credit, they keep their arrangements simple...allowing
the listener to concentrate on the melodies and words. The guys in Patty
Hurst Shifter aren't trying to be artsy or clever...instead opting to
play it straight-from-the-hip for those listeners who prefer an easy listen.
The playing is energetic and spirited and the vocals clean and professional.
throughout Ten classy tracks here including "She's Like a Song,"
"When You Lie," "All Washed Up," and "Break Everything."
Good stuff. (Rating: 4+++)
Chris
Pierce - Static Trampoline (CD, Mailboat,
Pop)
After hearing one too many alternative bands in one day, the music of Chris
Pierce came as a welcome surprise. Purely pleasant and pleasantly pleasing,
Static Trampoline is one groovy and smooth experience. There's already
a good buzz going around about this Los Angeles, California-based songwriter
and for good reason. Pierce has a sound and style that could easily appeal
to a huge audience. His songs are smart and melodic...and he has an incredible
deep voice that really makes his tunes come alive. Underground music fans
may not dig this album because it is so slick and professional...but they'll
be the ones missing out because Pierce makes classic, classy soulful
pop music that will be appreciated for decades to come. Killer tracks include
"Bye Bye Butterfly," "Wishbone," "Because Of You,"
and "Love Is Within Reach." Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Queen
- Under Review: 1973-1980 (DVD, Chrome
Dreams)
Queen were, arguably, one of the best bands of the 1970s. This DVD
collects fantastic snippets of the band performing some of their biggest
hits. While this initially might sound like a dream made in heaven, this
disc is--unfortunately--blemished from beginning to end. Under Review
is, just as the title suggests, an analysis of the band. But rather than
present even one complete live performance, the DVD instead presents various
writers analyzing the band into the ground. Just as you start to get into
any particular concert performance, the band dissolves...only to be replaced
by a critic babbling on and on about their views of the band. This is irritating
initially...but by the end of the DVD we were so annoyed that all we could
do was keep our finger on the fast forward button...trying our hardest to
avoid hearing and seeing any more critical analysis. This DVD could have
been salvaged very simply by putting the live tracks by themselves in
their entirety on the opposite side of the disc. If this had been the
case, we would have rated this much higher. But as it is, this disc is virtually
unwatchable. Queen fans are likely to be very disappointed with this. We
certainly were. (Rating: 2)
RMS
& Gil Evans - Live at the Montreaux Jazz Festival 1983 (DVD, Angel Air Waves)
A thrilling multi-camera documentation of a concert given by RMS
and Gil Evans at the 1983 Montreau Jazz Festival. Rather than just
being mere archival footage, this is a top-notch filming of an incredible
concert. The quality of the sound and video is amazing, especially considering
that this was shot over 20 years ago. The band starts off with the super
charged progressive jazz/rocker "Broadway Rundown" and then quickly
tones things down for the beautifully subdued "First Love." Other
highlights of this show include "Hoover the Duvet," "Little
Wing," "Gone," and "Juna the Last." Not only is
the musicianship top notch from start to finish, but the video editing is
virtually flawless. Playing in this show were Ray Russell, Mo
Foster, Simon Phillips, and Gil Evans along with guest
musicians Mark Isham, Henry Lowther, Malcolm Griffiths,
and Ronnie Asprey. These guys were really "on" for the
evening...as is evidenced by the enthusiastic reaction from the audience.
Bonus features on this disc include "The Convergence: The Story Behind
the Concert," band quotes, biographies, and a photo gallery. A truly
excellent presentation. (Rating: 5+)
Oh rubber glob
Who art in Heaven
Hallowed be thy name.
Thy kingdom come
They will be done
On earth as it is in
Rubber glob.(Rating: 1)
Sad and lonely
Salt and Pepper Poppa
Sits alone at his table
And strokes at his beard.His mind is treble and
His body is bass.He hasn't a shield and
He hasn't a trace.(Rating: 1)
Sheeple here.
Sheeple there.
Sheeple, sheeple
Everywhere.Never will they
Feel the flame
For all the sheeple
Act the same.(Rating: 1)
She was angry and lost
So she had a mad bad baby.
The worst of the baddest of bad.The baby grew up.
She pushed it away.But the baby came back,
Badder and madder than ever.She held the mad bad baby.
It chewed her to pieces
On that terrible wonderful day.(Rating: 1)
Slowride
- C/S (CD, Deep Elm,
Rock)
Powerful melodic hard rock. Slowride is Dan Phillips, Rob
Marchant, and Steve Visneau. These three gentlemen have a thick,
solid sound and they write strangely catchy hard rockers. This band is already
popular among hipster reviewers and underground fans. With a bit of luck,
C/S could push them into the mainstream. While the songs are intelligent
and loud, the band's music retains decidedly accessible elements (i.e.,
you can actually understand the lyrics). Treading the fine line between
commercial pop and hard rock, these fellows are doing everything right.
C/S was produced by Stuart Sikes, who did an exceptional job
of capturing the band's sound. Cool rockers include "A New Day Is Upon
Us," "Slowly," "Rust Killer," and "Elouisa."
Great hard rock for thinking listeners. (Rating: 5)
(The
Sounds of) Kaleidoscope - From Where You
Were To How You Got There (CD, Hackshop,
Psychedelic pop)
Despite the fact that the band has been in existence in one form or another
since 1995, From Where You Were To How You Got There is the first
full-length release from (The Sounds of) Kaleidoscope. This band
has gone through a number of personnel changes over the years, which might
explain why--prior to this album---they had only released cassettes and
EPs. This is a strangely satisfying album, but don't expect to be blown
away on the first spin. Many folks' first reaction might be to dismiss these
guys as just another psychedelic drone band. But there is more to this music
than first meets the mind and ears. Hidden and buried beneath the peculiar
drones are some rather impressive tunes. Dreamy pop tracks like "Oh
My Mind" and "Th' Strangebirds" recall some of the more obscure
Lilys albums. While some tracks seem a bit vague and obtuse, when
these guys hit the target they really hit it dead center. Definitely a band
to watch. (Rating: 4++++)
The
Southern Sea - Simple Machines for Complex
Problems (Independently released CD EP, Pop)
Refreshing effervescent pop. We are pleased to have received this little
EP because it features what many other discs do not: Great songs. Recorded
in the band's home studios in their home state of Texas, Simple Machines
for Complex Problems features six stunning pop tunes. The arrangements
are simple and understated...and serve the basic purpose of supporting the
band's cool, gliding melodies. Indie pop fans are sure to get genuine thrills
from tracks like "Iowa Mountain Tour," "Hotel Mishaps Are
Sad," and "The Mighty Cottonwood Creek." The gentlemen in
The Southern Sea have real talent and on this EP they really deliver
the goods. Here's hoping that we are treated to a full-length album in the
very near future. Fantastic stuff... (Rating: 5++)
Chris Spedding - Click Clack (CD, SPV
USA, Pop)
Can session men have successful solo careers...? Maybe, maybe not...but
whatever the case, guitarist extraordinaire Chris Spedding continues
writing and recording credible and absorbing music. While Spedding's name
may still not be familiar to many people, everyone knows the artists he
has played with. Brian Eno, John Cale, Tom Waits, Jack
Bruce, Donovan...the list goes on and on...and on... Click
Clack is another exceptional offering from Spedding. Artists lending
their talents and support include Sarah Brown, Tal Bergmann,
Iain Dixon, Danny Thompson, Freddy Koella, and Bryan
Ferry. Thick, funky, pleasing tracks include "Hilife," "You
Don't Own Me," "Hear Your Daddy," "How To Get Rid of
the Blues," and "Click Clack." Will this be the album
that pushes Spedding's own career into the mainstream...? Hey, who knows...?
All we know is that this is yet another critical and artistic success.
(Rating: 5+)
Garrison Starr - The Sound of You and Me (Advance CD, Vanguard,
Soft pop)
Beautiful, pensive soft pop. Up to this point, Garrison Starr has
made a real impact on many reviewers but she has yet to hit the big time.
The Sound of You and Me is an exceptionally bright and sincere collection
of tunes. Recorded in Nashville with the assistance of collaborator/guitarist
Neilson Hubbard, the album resounds with cool threads of uplifting
optimism. As with all Vanguard releases, the sound quality is superb from
start to finish. Combined with precisely targeted arrangements, it all adds
up to a great batch of tunes that have been polished to perfection. Ms.
Starr's vocals are the focal point. This young lady can really sing.
Without ever sounding like she's trying too hard, Garrison manages to conjure
up genuine, finely tuned images of human interaction and involvement. Slick
without ever sounding too slick, The Sound of You and Me is a rich
and rewarding listening experience. Great cuts include "Pendulum,"
"Let Me In," "Big Enough," "No Man's Land,"
and "We Were Just Boys and Girls." Highly recommended. (Rating:
5+++)
The
Stems - Totally Cool: Anthology 83-86
(CD, Get Hip, Rock/pop)
Although most American music fans probably aren't familiar with them, The
Stems made quite a mark on the Australian music scene in the mid 1980s.
While the band's reverb driven garage rock was out of synch with popular
music at the time, they managed to have quite a few hits in their home country.
Unfortunately they were never able to transfer that success to the states.
Due to internal problems, the band split in 1987. Totally Cool: Anthology
83-86 is a best of collection for fans of the band and an introduction
to folks who never heard them in the first place. This is a meaty collection
featuring a whopping 21 tracks, six of which are demos (five of these being
previously unreleased). Just as the title of the disc suggests, these tunes
are...totally cool. These upbeat, melodic guitar-driven pop tunes
sound as fresh and infectious today as when they were originally recorded.
Classy, classic cuts include "She's a Monster," "Make You
Mine," "Love Will Grow," "For Always," "All
You Want Me For," and "Lon Chaney Juniors Daughter." An excellent
overview. (Rating: 5+)
Three Dimensional Blackboard - Waffle (Independently released CD-R)
While policy prevents us from reviewing this, readers will want to take
note that California's Three Dimensional Blackboard have returned
with a brand new album which is available at cdbaby.com.
(Not Rated)
Sauce for the moo and
Mushes on the meow.
Her soft fushy mango,
Her neat brittle brow.The bongo mechanics
Are tinky and toy.
The singalong hammers
With linkety snoy.The farm full of banjo,
The finger of harm
Will bingo forever
In throwaway thumbs.(Rating: 1)
Mia
Doi Todd - The Ewe and the Eye (CD,
City Zen, Folk/acoustic/soft pop)
Reissue of Mia Doi Todd's first album, which was originally released
in 1997 on the Xmas label. Recording a debut alone with an acoustic guitar
would be an insurmountable feat for most musicians, but Todd's brave choice
has brought her many devoted fans over the years. In addition to three bonus
tracks (new versions of "Planting," "Johnny Appleseed,"
and "Courting"), this reissue also includes the original 16 page
lyric booklet. This album showcases a young woman who is so focused that
she can entertain totally alone...without other unnecessary elements cluttering
things up. Most modern artists overdub and overproduce their tunes to death.
As a result, hearing someone play naked and alone...allowing all their human
frailties to be heard...is refreshing indeed. In the end, however, it is
Mia's songs that make this album such a treat. Subtle delights include "Digging,"
"Planting Time," "Nightblooming Trilogy," "Set
Sail," and "Autumn." Beautiful stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Tristeza - A Colores (CD, Better
Looking Records, Instrumental)
While the band name may not be a household word, the folks in Tristeza
have managed to garner a great deal of respect and attention among reviewers
and underground musicians over the past few years. A Colores is somewhat
of a departure for the band. James Lavelle left to concentrate on
his other project (The Album Leaf). Original members Christopher
Sprague, Luis Hermosillo, and James Lehner remain...being
joined on this album by guitarist Alison Ables and keyboard player
Sean Ogilive. This CD features twelve colorful yet subtle modern
mood compositions that shift and glide like mental dreams. What sets Tristeza
apart from many other instrumental bands is the pure and simple fact that
these folks are superb musicians. Creativity abounds on A Colores...making
it perfectly clear that Tristeza will be around for many years to come.
Intricate, subtle, thought provoking compositions include "Bromas,"
"Wand," "Halo Heads," and "Palindrome Dome."
Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Live and die
In wah wah womb.Stay inside
Of wah wah womb.Cut in two
The wah wah womb.Stay inside
The wah wah tomb.(Rating: 1)
Paul
Winn - Paul Winn (Independently released
Australian import CD, Soft pop)
Though released in 2004, we only recently acquired a copy of this disc.
Australia's Paul Winn writes and records super smooth pop that is
surprisingly professional and accessible. This self-produced album features
ten original tracks that feature Winn's subtle, soothing vocals and arrangements
that support (rather than detract from) the melodies. The band on this album
consists of Paul Winn (vocals, guitars, piano), Simon Fishburn (drums),
and Matt Keegan (saxophone). These tunes were mixed with assistance
from well-known producer Anton Hagop. Winn's music should please
fans of artists on the Vanguard label. His soft pop tunes have a nice organic
sound that is instantly pleasing. Includes "A Game," "Reflection,"
"Leave It To Fate," "Taylor," and more. Well done. (Rating:
4+++)
Amalgamation - Flu
AM Syndicate - Empire
Annette - Growing into myself
Ariel Aparicio - Frolic and f*ck
Argo - Needs
Andrei Arsene - Where we started
Michael Lee Austin - Labor pains
Ethan Azarian - Cross'n over
BCRP - BCRP
Bee - Overground breakthrough
Bell Hollow - Bell Hollow EP
Belong - October language
Martha Berner - ...This side of yesterday
Beyond the Valley of the Barbarellatones - Beyond the Valley of the Barbarellatones
Black Furies - Death rip saturday night
Blackmore's Night - Christmas eve
Blackmore's Night - Castles & dreams
Cannibus & Phoenix Orion - Def con zero
The Capes - Hello
Capital Sons - Capital Sons
Captain RW - Someone to share my rainbow with
Cars Can Be Blue - All the stuff we do
The Casting Couch - Row your boat
Charly Cazalet - Rough mix NYC
Chantal Charmandy - Love needs you
Chicken Shack - I'd rather go live
Clear Static - Make-up sex
Dan Clucas/Immediately - Exile
Comomusic Anthology - 1990-2005 #2
Consumption - Out of the ashes
Corporate Ninja! - #1
Cowboy Mouth - Voodoo shoppe
Crime In Stereo - Fuel. transit. sleep.
The Curstaceans - I'm happy if you're happy
Dame Satan - Ghost mansion
David and the Citizens - David and the Citizens
The Decadent Royals - Swing on, sinners
Devics - Push the heart
Divorcee - Music for cleanup men, breakdown and inbetweeners
Charley Dush - Highwood hills
Dust Devils - Gathering dust
1888 - Abble goose dam
East West Blast Test (EWBT) - Popular music for unpopular people
Elekibass - Welcome wonderful world
Fenix TX - People reign in blood - live
The-Films - The-Films CD single
B. Fleischmann - The humbucking coil
The Fuzz Band - Collision
Gil Mantera's Party Dream - Bloodsongs
The Glass Family - Sleep inside this wheel
Glove Box - Glove Box
Ken Gould - Miles from mariana
Green Carnation - Acoustic verses
The Harpeth Trace - Man and the cousin
Haunted Mansion - #1
Hypatia Lake - And we shall call him joseph
The Human Value - The Human Value
The Illuminati - The Illuminati
Imaginary Freds - Near life experience
Inner Beauty Contest - The better to see them with
Louis James - So unreal
Jaugernaut - Contra-mantra
Juniper - Escape
Katray - Remade live
Kobayashi - Strange lights and resolutions
Mike Ladd - Presents father divine
Jon Langford - Gold brick
The Lashes - Get it
Natalie Rose Lebrecht - Imagining weather
Lenore - #12
Leon-Vest - So blue
Steuart Liebig/Stigtette - Delta
Low Skies - All the love i could find
Mad Francis - Let's get naked
Masters of the Lunaverse - The anonymous EP
The Maybellines - A la carte
Linda McLean - No language
Mellowdrone - Mellowdrone
Jeff Merchant - Window rolled down
Midstates - Boxing twilight
Miller - Complete buffoonery
Mud the Otter - Mud the Otter
Shawn Mullins - 9th ward pickin' parlor
Munkey Juice - Fatty Arbuckle's coke bottle
The Noise Revival - To the seven churches in the province of Asia
The No-Neck Blues Band - Qvaris
No Parachute - A compilation of indie music videos: volume 1
North to Emerson - Anywhere but here
Malcolm Palmer - Between the womb and the tomb
P:ano - Ghost pirates without heads
Paranoids - Obsessions delusions & headtrips vol. 1
Paul Hanover Band - Under your skin
Ariel Pink's Haunted Graffiti 5 - House arrest
Plug Uglies - Plug Uglies
Portugal the Man - Waiter: You vultures!
The Pralines - Song of the day cafe
Preeta - In this moment
Racecar - Racecar
Randevyn - Soltrain
Receptor Sight - Cycles and connections
Scott Reeder - Tunnel vision brilliance
Relic Rust - Presents relic cuts, the intro
Rex Libris: Labyrinth of Literature: Volume 1, Issue 2
Rusty Like - Pirouette
Rachel Sage - The blistering sun
Saxon Shore - The exquisite death of saxon shore
Matthew Shaw - Convenience
J. J. Sheridan - The art of Turlough O'Carolan (1670-1738)
The Sixfifteens - Feature, conference, transfer
Slacks - Terrestrial
Slick - Elements of the game
The Slow Poisoner - Fatal floral phonograph
Small Arms Dealer - A single unifying theory
Azalia Snail - Avec amour
The Society of Rockets - Where the grass grows black
Some By Sea - On fire! (igloo)
Some Monastery - Machete wounds
SoundsGood - Biscuits & gravy
Amilia K. Spicer - Seamless
The States - Multiply and divide
Swim Team - Juice for Jesus
300 Pounds - Metamorphosis
Tic Code - abccade
Tony Travalini - Silence and obscurity
David Turbow - Gold standard
TVfordogs - Roller
UFO -Showtime (CD)
UFO - Showtime (DVD)
Various Artists - I am the resurrection: A tribute to John Fahey
Various artists - I Eat Records: Appetizers & leftovers
Various artists: Inner City Sound: Australian punk & post-punk
Various artists - To: Elliott From: Portland (Expunged Records)
Various artists - Pssst! - Filter Magazine
Vaz - The lie that matches the furniture
Venice Is Sinking - Venice Is Sinking
Venice Is Sinking / What We Do Is Secret - Split EP
Vervein - The weather inside
We Are The Fury - We Are The Fury
The Weather Machines - The sound of pseudoscience
When Girls Collide - Hit me with your tail wag
The Whigs - Give 'em all a big fat lip
The Willis - Bathtub lighbulb heart attack
Willit - Willit
The Witnesses - Black eyes and white lies
Wooden Hand and the Vanishing Voice - The flood
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