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June 2003 Reviews by
About
E-mails | The babysue®
Store | General Info | LMNOP®
| Official T-Shirts | Review Policies
June 2003 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
June 2003 Comment
Piece:
Get All the Entertainment You Want FREE...or really, REALLY CHEAP.
Tired of hashing out all of your cash day after day after day...just so that you can enjoy a film or some goddamn music? Fear not, oh TRUSTY READER...there is a way OUT of the frustrating rat maze. You can get as much stuff as you can take in...and even MORE...by following one simple rule. When seeking entertainment...DO NOT BUY ON THE CURVE. To be more precise, whenever that mighty marketing machine in the sky starts churning out news about the latest BAND or FILM or WHATEVER...simply IGNORE IT...and WAIT. Wait months...or even YEARS...until that particular item or project has become unhip or dated...and THEN obtain it. You can also buy OFF THE CURVE in other ways. Simply buy the medium that is no longer in favor. Because everyone now demands CDs and DVDs...we would suggest that the cost conscious consumer concentrate on videotapes...or audio cassettes...or even vinyl records. These items can be had around the planet now for virtually nothing (in many cases these are now totally FREE at yard sales because no one will buy them...despite the fact that they are still completely valid formats!. "But gosh, babysue folks," you may be saying to yourself. "You are giving contradictory advice, aren't you? After all, you yourselves review the latest and the greatest stuff out there every month! Aren't you being a bit hypocritical?" Why certainly NOT, OH TRUSTY READER! We review new stuff because it is FREE. If you can't tap into the free vein of the marketing machine...we would suggest that you simply GO BACK A FEW YEARS...and read our reviews from 1996...1997...1998...or whatever...and seek out the great stuff that was released THEN. We can just about GUARANTEE YOU that you will find most of it either FREE...or very, VERY cheap. Don't let your SNOUT be jerked around by folks who want to take all of your HARD-EARNED MONEY. Be entertained the SMART and BETTER way. Obtain and buy things OFF THE CURVE. You'll be GLAD you DID. Besides...whoever said that "current" means BETTER?!? In most cases...it simply AIN'T!!! Don't be smart...be STUPID...just like WE is!!! We may be DUMB...but we sure ain't SMART enough to know that no matter WHAT we say 'bout NUFFIN...ain't NOBODY lissnin NO WAY!!! Huh huh huh huh huh! We don't care 'bout NUFFIN!!! Nottuh single goddamn FANG!!!
Anandi - Forever Days (CD, Lake Lady Music, Pop/soul/female
vocalist)
Anandi impressed a great many reviewers with her last release (The
Mirror)...and for good reason. That album established this young lady
as a real contender in the world of soul-infected pop. Forever Days
picks up where The Mirror left off...and offers even more substantive
proof of Anandi's impressive capabilities. Playing the game her own way...without
using gimmicks...and without an outrageous image...Anandi manages to captivate
and entertain based purely on her own talents (as well as the assistance
of Brad Craig on various instruments, Genji Siraisi on drums.
and guest artists Dennis Martin, Steve Mayone, and Karla
Schiemann). Anandi's music sounds like the more soulful side of Kate
Bush...or the more restrained side of Joan Armatrading. But make
no mistake, this lady's voice is purely her own...and what a voice she has
(!). Anandi delivers the twelve tunes on Forever Days with compassion,
sincerity, and true style. Our favorite cuts are "Forever Days,"
"Know Better," "Always a Child," and "All In It's
Own Time." A wonderfully satisfying album. (Rating: 5+)
Josh Bennett - Josh Bennett (Advance CD-R, Private Music, Rock/pop)
Unlike many up-and-coming new talents, Nashville's Josh Bennett isn't
afraid to make music that has the potential to appeal to millions of people.
His songs present a classic sensibility that is usually associated with
artists who have been at it for years. His soulful vocals and deliberate
delivery make the tunes on this album entertaining and unique. "Smile"
is a wonderfully slick pop tune that just gets better every time you hear
it. Produced by Ken Coomer (who has also produced albums by Wilco
and Steve Earle), this disc is destined to put Bennett's name permanently
on the map for years to come. Good stuff. (Rating: 4+)
Frank
Bango - The Unstudied Sea (CD, Sincere Recording Company,
Pop)
Imagine Scott McCaughey (Young Fresh Fellows) singing Elvis
Costello songs...and you may have some idea of what Frank Bango
sounds like. Being longtime fans of both McCaughey and Costello...we find
Bango's music to be inviting and engaging. The Unstudied Sea features
a non-stop collection of instant pop classics. Frank's tunes are based around
an acoustic guitar...and they possess a classic sound that is sadly missing
in most of today's popular music. While Bango is presented as a solo artist...the
contributions of songwriting partner Richy Vesecky should not be
underestimated. While the quality is startling high throughout this album...there
are two facts that will probably limit this man's chances for success. First,
while we love the vocals, Bango's voice has a slight nasal quality that
will not sit well with the average listener. Second...and even more importantly...these
songs are extremely positive. While we consider this second trait to be
wonderfully positive...most folks simply can't take it when an artist is
this uplifting (and almost completely lacking in sarcasm!). This album is
chock full of beautiful melodies and addictive hooks. Destined to be a favorite
among critics, this album is a knockout. Includes "Out of the Water,"
"Museums," "The Lottery Pieces," "Does the Bitter
Moon Really Care About How Dark it Gets?" (Rating: 5+)
Camarosmith - Camarosmith (CD, Dead
Teenager, Hard rock)
Camarosmith is Ben "Devil" Rew (vocals, harmonica,
guitar), Donny Paycheck (drums), Chris Johnsen (guitar, vocal.s),
Pat "F*ckin'" Brown (guitar, vocals), and Jeff "Sweet
Potato Jackson" Matz (bass, vocals). These guys are wild and out-of-control
rock and roll monsters. Playing rock and roll for the BIG BOYS...these five
guys truly know how to KICK ROYAL ASS. No clever gimmicks here. Just some
regular lookin' guys who like to turn ALL THE WAY UP and RAISE HELL. This
album features a nice, thick sound...courtesy of ace producer Jack Endino.
If you like big overdriven guitars, loud danceable rock music, and masculine-fueled
rhythms that PUMP like there's no TOMORROW...you're gonna really DIG Camarosmith.
This is one of those rare cases where the band is even BETTER than their
name suggests. Cut-loose kickers include "It's Allright," "Corrupt,"
"Flight of the Red Wing," and "Running Free." Killer
stuff...highly recommended for fans of Fu Manchu... (Rating: 5++)
Commander Cody and His Lost
Planet Airmen - Greatest Hits Live! (CD,
King Biscuit Flower Hour,
Pop/rockabilly/swing)
This disc features a previously released show from 1976 by Commander
Cody and His Lost Planet Airmen. It is interesting to hear this band
now...considering how many bands have followed in their footprints since
(!). Commander Cody and Associates were producing rockabilly-induced swing
music at a time when few other bands were. And the music possessed a genuine
authenticity that was missing in many of the 1990s revival bands. This nice
lively album features thirteen hot numbers including "Battle of New
Orleans," "Down to Seeds and Stems Again Blues," and "Truck
Driving Man." Good stuff...dancin' music... (Rating: 4+++)
The
Divorce - There Will Be Blood Tonight
(CD, Fugitive, Rock)
The Divorce is a tight, loud, and intense hard rock trio from Seattle.
There are traces of a variety of bands in these guys' music...including
early Gang of Four, XTC, and Joe Jackson. But make
no mistake, this is no retro outfit. These gentlemen are playing modern
rock...infused with plenty of energy and (sometimes) screaming yelps and
hollers. For the most part, this band plays buzzsaw guitar rock/pop music
with intelligent melodies and pulsing rhythms. The band is at their best
when they are concentrating on playing like maniacs while still retaining
a strong melodic sense. (Some of the songs would have been greatly improved
by leaving out the intense screams...they just don't seem relevant considering
the exceptional quality of the songwriting.) Good stuff. The next release
from The Divorce could be an even more direct hit for the band... (Rating:
4++)
Electric Six - Fire (CD, XL
Recordings / Beggars Banquet,
Rock/pop/dance)
Detroit's Electric Six pack a hard punch...providing danceable rock
music infused with loud guitars, driving rhythms, and vocals that are reminiscent
of 1970s disco music. The band is very different from what we are accustomed
to hearing on the XL Recordings / Beggars Banquet labels. Far from being
an alternative pop band, these guys obviously have one intent...and that
is to make their listeners want to dance. Judging from the sounds heard
on Fire...the band is succeeding. This album features a non-stop
string of dance club numbers that charge out of the gate with fierceness...and
then just keep on pumping until the end. What we like best about this band
is that...while their main intent is to provide dance music...they don't
wimp out with crummy synthesizers and electronic beats. Instead, they deliver
their beats with pure masculinity and muscle that normally isn't heard in
dance music. Interestingly, the band has a great deal of commercial appeal...as
is evidence by such cuts as "Dance Commander," "Danger! High
Voltage," and "I'm the Bomb." (Rating: 4+)
Ether
Seeds - Ether Seeds (CD, Roadrunner, Hard rock)
The last couple of years have seen a slight shift in focus for the infamous
Roadrunner label. Originally known as a label for death metal and black
metal bands (which they still heartily support)...the label has now expanded
their focus to include hard rock bands. Considering some of the choices
the label has made in this arena...that is a very good thing. Consider
Atlanta's Ether Seeds...a loud, punchy, hard rocking band. The band's
music is surprisingly accessible. Their debut album for Roadrunner contains
cuts that are based in 1970s rock...but the music is infused with a modern
crash and burn style that is inviting and decidedly LOUD. But while the
volume is way, way UP...the band manages to balance their fury with intelligent
songwriting and focused playing. Features cool rockers like "Undone,"
"Kill the Messenger," "So Ugly," and "Fade."
(Rating: 5)
Jay
Farrar - Terroir Blues (Advance CD,
Act/Resist, Folk/pop)
A founding member of both Uncle Tupelo and Sun Volt, Jay
Farrar returns with his third solo album. Farrar's first album (Sebastopol)
was slightly hampered by busy arrangements and overproduction...but those
problems have now obviously been dealt with. Terroir Blues is a pure
and beautiful album. The tunes are pensive, folky, subtle...and presented
with only the bare essentials necessary in order to get the point across.
The album is, for the most part, a subtle and understated affair. Farrar's
vocals have never sounded better. His voice is masculine yet gentle...effective
yet never strained...and his lyrics seem to come straight from the heart.
Farrar is fond of utilizing the talents of special guests. On this album,
folks lending a hand include Mark Spencer, Eric Heywood, and
Jon Wurster among others. Our favorite track is the eerie and haunting
"Heart On the Ground II," an unusually effective piece that really
has staying power. If you've never heard Farrar's music before, this is
an excellent starting point. If you're already familiar with the man...prepare
to be blow away...again. (Rating: 5+++)
Flowchart - Pre-2000 Singles and Comp Tracks Part One (CD, Fuzzy Box, Obtuse pop), Pre-2000
Singles and Comp Tracks Part Two (CD, Fuzzy
Box, Obtuse pop), Evergreen Noise is Flexible / The Spirit of
Kenny G (CD, Fuzzy Box,
Obtuse pop)
Flowchart is the ongoing experimental project begun in the mid-1990s
by Sean O'Neal. Courtesy of the fine folks at Fuzzy Box and Darla,
three whopping discs of older Flowcart material have been released. The
first two discs (Pre-2000 Singles and Comp Tracks Part One and Pre-2000
Singles and Comp Tracks Part Two) aren't exactly what one would normally
expect from a "singles compilation." These discs feature compositions
that are decidedly uncommercial and peculiar. The pieces on these discs
have more in common with soundtrack music...evoking a mood in space rather
than turning a clever melody with cute words. The adventurous compositions
on these two discs are hard to describe...which is probably exactly what
O'Neal and company were striving for when they recorded them. Evergreen
Noise is Flexible / The Spirit of Kenny G, the third disc, features
more accessible music that would more easily fit into the category of pop.
This disc features cuts from two previously released EPs that have been
out of print for some time. Because of the peculiar nature of Flowchart
music...it is difficult to compare, describe, or even rate these recordings.
For the adventurous in mind and spirit, these are recommended listening...as
they present a strangely compelling body of work. (Rating: 4+++)
Freddy & The Fore Gone
Conclusions - Wigged Out Sounds (CD, Get Hip, Pop)
For those who love the sounds of the sixties...that spirit is still alive
and kickin'...and Freddy & The Fore Gone Conclusions are sheer
living proof of the fact. The band is headed by Freddy Fortune, who
many will remember for his previous bands The Covingtons and Fortune
and Maltese and the Phabulous Pallbearers. Freddy & The Fore Gone
Conclusions remind us of wonderfully uplifting bands like Hermans Hermits.
The tunes are simple, melodic, mostly based around love, and served with
sincerity and style. This band's image fits their sound. With their matching
suits and sunglasses...they seem ready to revive the world with a consciousness
of decades gone by...when music was simpler...and bands were more genuine.
Friendly, uplifting, and totally lovable, this band is doing everything
right. Kickass tracks include "Today," "Stranded," "Cry
In Shame," "Shattered," and "I Can't See You."
(Rating: 5)
Garrison - The Model (CD EP, Iodine
Recordings, Rock/pop)
Garrison continue in their mission to write and record memorable
hard pop. The Model may just be the band's best release yet. This
quartet continues to grow and mature...without sacrificing their addiction
to volume and power. The five tunes on this album are loud, powerful, smart,
and full of cool metallic hooks. The band's music is anchored in overdriven
guitars and throbbing rhythms...but the vocals are what push the music to
the next level. Instead of cooing softly or screaming like out of control
zombies, vocalists Joseph Grillo and Ed McNamara sometimes
sing in a straightforward manner...but when the need arises, they can really
BELT it out. Getting better with every release, Garrison is one of the best
hard pop bands around. Top picks: "Let's Fight," "The Only
One," "The Sound." (Rating: 5+)
Benjamin Gibbard & Andrew
Kenny - Home: The Post-Parlo Records Split CD
Series (CD, Post-Parlo,
Pop)
This split CD features four tunes from Benjamin Gibbard (of Death
Cab For Cutie) and Andrew Kenny (of American Analog Set).
The basic premise here is to present songs with the theme being "home."
Each artist presents three tunes of their own...and then offers a cover
of a tune written by the other artist. An interesting concept presented
in an intelligent manner (which is nothing less than we would expect from
the clever and eclectic Post-Parlo label). Gibbard's first three tunes ("You
Remind Me of Home," "Carolina," "Farmer Chords")
were recorded late 2002/early 2003. Kenny presents the first tune he wrote
("Hometown Fantasy") as well as two new compositions ("Secrets
of the Heart," "Church Mouse in the Church House"). Gibbard
and Kenny are a good pairing for a split CD. Each offers soft and introspective
folky pop with a heavy emphasis on melody. Both artists' lyrics are personal
and reflective, which is fitting for the "home" theme. This release
is recommended for fans of both bands that these men belong to...as well
as anyone else wanting a fresh dose of soft, reflective pop... (Rating:
4+++)
The
Heavenly States - The Heavenly States
(CD, Future Farmer Recordings,
Rock)
Epic pop with loud guitars. The first couple of tunes on this band's debut
album reminded us of The Poster Children...but by the third or fourth
song that comparison no longer applied. The Heavenly States' sound
ranges from noisy alternative guitar rock...to lilting pop music with heavenly
arrangements. The songs are not easy...nor are they predictable. And although
the band's overall sound seems slightly familiar...they do not sound derivative.
This band has some good songs...but they seem hampered by overproduction.
Tunes that would best be presented simply and directly...and sometimes hidden
behind too many instruments and overdubs. Perhaps by their next album these
problems will be straightened out... (Not Rated)
James William Hindle - Prospect Park (CD, Badman,
Pop)
It would be difficult for any artist to match the quality of James William
Hindle's debut album. But on Prospect Park, the second full-length
album from this unique British gentleman, he far surpasses the quality his
first release. This album does, in fact, rank right up there with some of
the greatest pop albums of all time. Hindle has chosen his players wisely...blending
the talents of members of The Essex Green, The Ladybug Transistor,
Sunshine Fix, and Aden into the mix. Hindle's vocals are wonderful...slightly
reminiscent of Harpers Bizarre...but it is his ability to turn a
tune that is most remarkable. The subtle beauty of this man's melodies only
becomes apparent after many spins. Upon the first spin, listeners might
be apt to dismiss this material as nothing more than soft pop fluff. But
there is a great depth and honesty here that is highly rewarding and satisfying.
The lyrics are pure, intelligent, and moving. This is subtle soft pop at
its best. Supremely satisfying compositions include "You Will Be Safe,"
"Leaving Trains," "The Great Woodland Summer," "Shadows
Cast a Lie," and "Park Slope Song." Fantastic stuff. Highly
recommended. (Rating: 6)
I
Can Lick Any Sonofabitch in the House - Put
Here to Bleed (CD, In Music
We Trust, Rock)
Sounding something like a Southern refried sloppy combination dinner containing
slices of Alice Cooper, The Replacements, and The Pogues...this
band is a barroom lover's delight. The band is led by singer Mike D.,
a man who can out-rasp even the raspiest of singers. His drunken sing/growl
is the main focal point of this band's music...although the songs themselves
are impressively strong. Though the band is based on Portland...they sound
more like a band from Georgia or Alabama. The band's no-frills rock music
is stripped down, honest, and goes down easy. This album took a couple of
spins to sink in. These guys don't sound anything like other bands
on the In Music We Trust label (!). Good downhome rockin' music. Top picks:
"Twerp," "American F*ck Machine," "Things That
Fall," "Sixsixfive." (Rating: 4+++)
Jenifer
Jackson - So High (CD, Bar/None,
Soft pop)
Wonderfully soothing soft pop. We haven't heard a vocalist with a voice
this smooth and sincere since...Kirsty MacColl. Jenifer Jackson
has a voice that is remarkably similar to MacColl...but her material is
more obtuse and not as obvious. So High (Jackson's third album) is
chock full of absorbing melodies and dreamy arrangements. Not one to be
easily pigeonholed, Jenifer's material sways back and forth into many musical
genres...including folk, jazz, pop, soul, and world music. But whatever
style she takes on, Ms. Jackson seems to make it entirely her own. Her unique
presence comes through crystal clear in these recordings...and she has a
voice that has to be heard to be believed. This young lady has an uncanny
knack for drawing the listener into her world. Instantly addictive and wonderfully
heady, So High is a remarkable album from start to finish. Unforgettable
tunes include "The Power of Love," "We Will Be Together,"
"Got To Have You," and "Blue Forever Mine." Timeless
music. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Jeremy
- Pop Dreams (CD, Jam,
Pop)
One day...if and when things are totally right in the world...Jeremy
Morris will be a super successful pop star. Until that time arrives,
he will continue to be a underground cult icon with an extraordinarily devoted
following. Mr. Morris has been writing and recording for many years now...but
instead of burning out, he continues to grow and mature. Pop Dreams
features more of the cerebral, uplifting, and wonderfully melodic pop music
that we have come to expect from this multi-talented gentleman. Jeremy has
really outdone himself with his harmonies this time around. His thick vocal
overdubs are so velvety smooth and right on that it gives us chills (particularly
on "Why Don't You Love Me?"). These pure pop confections are layered
with just the right balance of instruments and voices...to create a mind-blowing
experience that ought to thrill even the most jaded pop fan. Songs are Jeremy's
strongest point. He seemingly pulls instant hits from the clouds one after
the other after the other... At this point, there's no telling how many
songs this man has written...and the most amazing part is that they're ALL
exceptional (!?!). Pop Dreams is right up there with Jeremy's best
works...and that's saying A LOT. Utterly fantastic and beautiful music that
comes straight from the heart that never stops giving. This man is a true
underground genius. (Rating: 5+++)
The King of France - Salad Days (CD, Egret,
Pop)
This band seems to have a fascination with aluminum foil and...CANDY. The
King of France is/are Steve Salad (guitar, vocals), Tom Siler
(keyboards), and Michael Azerrad (drums). The band released these
early recordings on their own Egret label. Some of the tunes on this disc
bear a strange resemblance to John Vanderslice...while at other times,
the band's fancy for The Pixies shines through. Salad has a nice
unaffected vocal style makes these tunes work. These lo-fi recordings have
a strange sound quality that makes them sound as if they were recorded in
the eighties...rather endearing (!). Nice simple pop that is not hampered
by excessive overdubs and unnecessary clutter. Top picks: "Lover Don't
Cry," "Been So Long," "Makeshift," "Moving
Up the Valley." (Rating: 4++)
Lucerin
Blue - Tales of the Knife (CD, Tooth and Nail, Rock)
Drummer Ryan Turner sums up the sound of his band best by stating
that they sound "...like power pop, mixed with a dash of metal, and
a teaspoon or hardcore." The four men in Lucerin Blue mix their
thick overdriven guitars with explosive rhythms and urgent vocals to create
a heady and intense brand of melodic hard rock. Some tunes have a poppy
feel...while others are rather abrasive and border on arena rock. Lucerin
Blue's tunes are far from generic. The band writes songs that are intelligent
and memorable. With the proper backing, this band could become HUGE. Eleven
tunes here, including "Game," "Man Made Weapon," "Superstar,"
and "This Letter." (Rating: 4+++)
Mink Lungs - I'll Take It (CD, Arena
Rock Recording Co., Rock/pop)
A lot of folks will likely buy this CD for the cover art alone. A great
album title is supported by a wonderful photo of a nice young lady taking
a little blue pill on the cover...while red, black, and white 1960s graphics
calmly swirl behind her head. It's a great, unforgettable album cover (and
title)...and gives a good indication of what the band's music sounds like.
The band's 2001 release (The Better Button) was impressive...but
this album is even better. It showcases more focused songwriting...and features
greatly improved sound quality. This Brooklyn-based band's sound could best
be categorized as peculiar and slightly psychedelic pop...and their sense
of humor is an integral part of their image. One fact that makes this band
unique is that all four members write and sing their own songs. Mink
Lungs is Jennifer Hoopes (vocals, bass), Gian Carlo Feleppa
(vocals, guitars, samplers), Tim Feleppa (vocals, guitars), and Tom
Galbraith (vocals, drums). Another cool album from a band with a truly
unique approach. (Rating: 5)
Nedelle - Republic of Two (CD, Kimchee,
Pop)
Every so often an artist pops up out of the blue to reminds us why we started
reviewing music. The first album from California's Nedelle is a KNOCKOUT.
Featuring many of the first songs that she has written, this 22-year-old
lady has come up with a real winner here. Nedelle's voice is silky smooth
and just a little bluesy. This album was recorded using vintage audio gear...which
may explain why the sound quality bears a strange resemblance to stuff recorded
in the late 1960s. Nedelle writes some great tunes to be certain...but her
voice will likely be her strongest asset in the years to come. Despite her
youth, she sings with a maturity and confidence that is missing in many
artists twice her age. Republic of Two is a breath of fresh air...featuring
eleven quality performances...each and every one as good as the next. Pop
music of the highest caliber. Superb. Top picks: "These Days,"
"I Lied," "Too Late," "Possess Me," "Grow
Willow Grow." (Rating: 5+++)
Pine Martin - Beautiful Stakes and Powerpoles (CD, Wild
Hotels of the Sea, Progressive pop/rock)
While too obtuse to land them a spot on MTV anytime in the near future...Pine
Martin have created a wonderfully satisfying and ultimately textured
album. Instead of relying of familiar gimmicks and samey hooks, this trio
instead prefers to combine strange chord structures and unlikely rhythms
to create their own brand of pop/rock. Pine Martin is Mark Wooten
(vocals, guitar, keyboards), Joe Lester (bass, keyboards), and Brian
Thornell (drums, keyboards). While this band has obvious leanings into
the world of experimental music, their tunes are...for the most part...nuggets
that are easily digested. What we find most intriguing on Beautiful Stakes
and Powerpoles are the arrangements. These compositions feature complicated
and challenging arrangements that prove there is still a great deal that
can be done with a basic lineup of guitar, bass, and drums. This music was
recorded in the same manner that a painting is created. Layers and layers
of sounds were meticulously added, giving just the right thickness of sound...without
ever going overboard. It would be difficult to say exactly who these guys
sound like..and that is, of course, the grandest compliment of all.
Top picks: "Mechanically Separated," "The Sequel," "Cottontails,"
"Bear." (Rating: 5)
Pusker and the Poodle Cracks - We Snoozed Out the Loose Punkin' (CD, Sissythread Cooker,
Electronic spuffs and whey)
Damn the snores and yeeps...Pusker and the Poodle Cracks done come
along to do it ALL! There was once a sad nothing going on somewhere along
the way...it was all holed up beside a lonely tree branch...crying its eyes
away and feeling pouty...when all of a sudden everything got CHANGED. The
lights got real BRIGHT...the colors got all FOCUSED...and the big ol' mixing
bowl in the sky was suddenly FILLED to the BRIM with the VERY BEST STUFF
AROUND. That's where Pusker came along...toting plenty of Poodle Cracks
for everyone. There weren't no CD...no digital nothing...just plenty of
good ol' cracks like what hadn't been seen since...since Roosevelt was having
dinner with your old Aunt Susan. We wanna record something! We wanna record
something! Oh YEAH? Well then you'd better got off your rotten old HIGH
CHAIRS and start DOING SOMETHING about it. Children. They don't have the
right. They don't have anything because they can't do anything. Adults.
They're the reason children are so bad. They can't create anything that
matters...so instead they create things that DON'T matter. And there you
have it. Pusker is all cushy and comfy in his little doodle hole...and he
don't give a primrose of a duster WHAT we all think of it. That's the way
it is. And if we don't like it, then we just won't. Mammy? Can you give
me a big ol' kiss, Mammy? Like you used to....? Let's pretend we're whores.
That will be fun. I will be a whore and you will listen to my whore-like
music. We will spend the day playing with everything that is sunny and jumps.
Sunny. Jumpy. That is the way the animals play. Sunny and jimmy jimmy...ALL
DAY, EVERY DAY. (Rating: 2)
Quiet,
Lovely - Automata, Musica (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop)
More complicated that it at first appears to the untrained ear...Automata,
Musica is not your average collection of generic and predictable pop
songs. Far from the contrary...this band's slightly familiar sounding tunes
are based around odd time signatures and strange arrangements that initially
don't sound so unusual. After a few spins, however, the intricate unique
nuances of the music begin to become apparent. Quiet, Lovely is Monte
Holman (guitar, vocals), Erik Lugo (bass), Tim Jenkins
(guitar, vocals, keys), John Perkins (guitar, vocals), and Jonathan
Standefer (drums). This band shatters preconceptions of what a Texas
band should sound like. These guys just don't sound like other Texas bands.
In fact, they don't really sound similar to any particular bands
that immediately come to mind. Unpredictable from start to finish...Automata,
Musica is a strangely satisfying album...full of surprises...and melodies
that have the potential to stay in the mind for years to come. A uniquely
crafted album. (Rating: 5+)
Rooney
- Rooney (CD, Geffen, Pop/rock)
Upon viewing publicity shots of this band, our first reaction was..."Oh
no...yet another invasion of the pretty boy bands." Boy were we
WRONG. Though they're young and very pretty...the fellows in Rooney
have more than earned their recording contract with Geffen. This album is
a non-stop string of pure pop singles played with the loving intensity of
a group of guys who just happen to have a wonderful knack for writing superb
melodies. Rooney's major label debut is a positive and upbeat experience
from start to finish...and that's OKAY WITH US (!). The band effective combines
all kinds of pop influences from the 1950s right on through to the present...and
they do so with integrity and style. The band's velvety smooth vocals...and
seamless harmonies...make their tunes seem to glide by like the clouds overhead.
If you're looking for a band that is breaking new ground...Rooney may not
be for you. But if, however, you are simply looking for some super slick
pop that is guaranteed to make you feel good...and stick in your head like
GLUE...then Rooney is your surefire CURE. Great tunes include "Blueside,"
"I'm a Terrible Person," "Popstars," "Sorry Sorry,"
and "Losing All Control." The band's slight bubblegummy influences
REALLY TURN US ON (!). Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
The Sick Lipstick - Sting Sting Sting (CD, Tiger
Style, Rock)
Harsh and slightly hilarious. The Sick Lipstick play harsh and intense
rock music...and there is no denying that the key identifying factor of
the band's music are Lindsey Gillard's vocals. This young lady's
voice contains all the restrained energy of a high school junior in heat.
The band sounds something like Ex Models...with Alvin (of
The Chipmunks) on lead vocals. This is a true helium-enriched affair
with abstract songs played with the conviction of an albino ex-killer. This
band's silly/serious approach will likely be misconstrued by most everyone.
Our guess is that they're probably just having noisy fun. And judging by
the tunes on Sting Sting Sting, it sounds like the quartet had a
HELL of a time in the recording studio. A weird experience here...featuring
twelve yelpers like "Go to Bed!," "Pretend I'm Sleeping,"
"Knit-Stitch/Crotch Itch," and "She's Got a Broken Femur."
Yow!!! (Rating: 4++)
Sister
Sonny - The Bandit Lab (CD, Five One Inc., Abstract/impressionistic/pop)
Combining an exotic variety of sounds and styles...Norway's Sister Sonny
delve into wildly mental territory on this, their fourth album. The Bandit
Lab is actually two albums combined on one lengthy compact disc. The
band is already popular in their native country...and it easy to see why.
While they have a keen interest in technology and the freedom of expression
that it brings...they never forsake their love of pop music in the process.
By blending the experimental with the accessible...these fellows manage
to challenge their listeners...without ever leaving them out in the dark
to dry. The band has bitten off a large chunk here. Bandit Lab features
seventeen puzzling tracks. Our favorite moments are when the experiments
bleed away...revealing the band's heavenly sense of melody...and some of
the most silky smooth vocals this side of Cincinnati. Super soothing cuts
include "Rumba Parumba," "Nothing Amuses the People As a
Puppet," "Educating Jimmy," "Girl at the Heart of My
Grief," and "Watchman." Challenging without being difficult.
Great stuff. (Rating: 5++)
The Spectors - Cockfights & Cakefights 1992-1996 (CD, Get Hip, Rock)
This disc is a retrospective covering Minneapolis band The Spectors
and their career in the early to mid-1990s. The band never received much
attention outside of their own turf...and we can only wonder why, as their
music is a fantastic jolt of pure undiluted fun. Some members have since
gone on to join the more successful The Conquerors. The 21 cuts on
Cockfights & Cakefights 1992-1996 are simple, direct, and full
of uplifting energy. Considering that this is a compilation, the consistency
and the flow of the album as a whole is surprising. The Spectors may be
no more...but their legend lives on, courtesy of the fine folks at Get Hip.
(How do they unearth so many cool bands every month of every year?!?
) Great garage rockers like "Private Dick," "I Fell In Love,"
"Little Country Shack," and "Big Beat Country Dance"
make this one a charged up roll and roll party album. Fun stuff. (Rating:
4+++)
Starflyer 59 - Old (CD, Tooth
and Nail, Pop)
One of the greatest...and most criminally overlooked...bands of the past
decade. Starflyer 59 have put out more incredible albums than just
about any band on the planet...and yet they remain an obscure delight for
those enlightened few who have turned onto the mind-blowing music of Jason
Martin. Even the band's most enduring fans are likely to be surprised
at the material on Old. While many of the basic ingredients of the
band's sound remain intact (exceptional melodies, fantastic vocals, killer
guitars)...these thickly produced and surprisingly radio-friendly tunes
are certainly a departure in many ways. When listening to this album, it
is crucial to keep an open mind. Upon the first listen, one might be inclined
to think that the band has sold out...but this is far from the truth. In
fact, Martin himself admits, "...this is really what we've been wanting
to do." Even though this album has an unbelievably accessible sound...Martin's
flair for writing unforgettable tunes still manages to shine through. One
can only hope that...after so many years of creating exceptional music...this
will be the breakthrough album for the band... (Rating: 5+)
Kristy
Starling - Kristy Starling (CD, Curb / Warner
Bros., Pop)
Uplifting, purely positive pop. Young female vocalist Kristy Starling
has a voice that is just as beautiful as she is. She got her start on NBC
News' "Today's Superstars" competition...making it to the last
six finalists (she lost in the final round to a singer from Atlanta). Though
the tunes on this album are slick and formula-driven pop all the way...Starling
has enough personality and talent to make things work. Perky, positive,
and upbeat...this young lady is sure to please that legions of fans who
are seeking pure feelgood music. Includes the tunes "Water," "Something
More (I Need to Praise You)," "To Where You Are," "I
Need You." (Rating: 4)
Sufjan Stevens - Greetings From Michigan: The Great Lake State (CD, Asthmatic Kitty / Sounds Familyre, Progressive pop)
In an unprecedented career move, Sufjan Stevens undertakes an extensive,
exhausting...and very likely amazing...project. This album marks the first
in a series of FIFTY albums...each one to be devoted to a different state.
For the first album in the series, Stevens takes on his home state of Michigan.
On the first couple of spins we were determined to figure out who this man
sounds like...but by the tenth spin we determined that the influences are
so vast and far-ranging that it would be impossible to compare Sufjan to
other artists. The true beauty of Greetings From Michigan is the
fact that this man is creating his own audio world with his own unique sound
and vision. The music ranges from soft pop to abstract pop to jazz to experimental...and
that's just the beginning. Unlike most artists who merge so many styles,
however, Stevens manages to do so while retaining a solid sense of continuity
throughout his album. His lyrics are thoughtful, smart, and introspective...and
they are delivered in such a subtle and sincere manner that the listener
can't help but be drawn in. If all fifty albums are this good...we'll
be supplying reviews of every single one (!). Fifteen fantastic cuts here,
including "Flint "For the Unemployed and Underpaid)," "Holland,"
"Alanson, Crooked River," and "Vito's Ordination Song."
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Surface of Eceyon - Dragyyn (CD, Strange
Attractors, Progressive space music)
Cool stuff always seems to be surfacing from Portland's Strange Attractors
label. Surface of Eceyon consists of Aaron Snow, Adam Forknet,
Daron Gardner, Dick Baldwin, and Phil Jenkins. Together,
the five produce what might best be described as progressive space music.
The moody and moving compositions on Dragyyn are strangely hypnotic
and slowly make their way into the center of the mind. This band's sound
is by no means obvious. These free-flowing songs feature a great deal of
spontaneity and creativity...various instruments and sounds merge together
into one subtle and transfixing mixture. The results is a somewhat hazy
and translucent jazzy brand of music that sounds something like a combination
of ideas from progressive rock bands from the 1970s and trance bands from
the 1990s. It is difficult to describe (and to pronounce) Surface of Eceyon...but
what we like best is that this album evokes a definite mood. You have to
admire folks who produce this kind of stuff...because they are obviously
doing it out of pure dedication and desire. Six wonderfully lengthy pieces
here, including "Stolen Wind" and "By A Curious Vessyl."
(Rating: 5+)
Topoware (Obvious kind of new product sort of thing)
"For the mouse who don't wanna waste it!"
Hey all you clean little snoutsters...don't worry about POLISH and SOAP
no more! Now there a WAY! A brand new WAY! A new way to think about mousing
up your pad with something other than that same old lackluster polish that
just don't make your whiskers push up the way they used to. The newest line
of things that gets talked about now is...TOPOWARE. Topoware is many different
buyable projects that all hold things inside and then they has clean fitting
LIDS that keep everything in the ENTIRE WORLD AIRTIGHT! Think about all
those little mouslings on the other side of the world who don't got NOTHING...while
you there in your self-absorbed little spoiler pad has EVERYTHING. The point
is to save, save, SAVE...all the while whisking your brisk little whiskers
on the THINGS that MATTER. Get TOPOWARE now...at a VERY DISCOUNT! That very
same discount you USED to think about when you was a YOUNG mouser! Go mouses,
GO! Go, go, go , go, GO!!! Grab that Topoware by the handle and plug your
MUG with the BIGGEST and the BEST! Snitzer and SNOBB...Topoware makes you
THROB! Happy mousers, one and all. Happy mousers...BIG and TALL. (Rating:
2)
Tricky
- Vulnerable (Advance CD, Sanctuary, Soul/techno/pop)
The seventh full-length album from Britain's Tricky. The man who
calls himself Tricky has made quite a name for himself over the past few
years...and now many critics are calling Vulnerable his best work
yet. This album was recorded in Los Angeles and features many "tricky"
production tricks. Tricky tunes are a hybrid of soul, pop, and techno. But
while the tunes tend to rely heavily on technology...there is substance
beneath these ocean waves. The soul-influenced pop numbers are melodic and
seductive...and are surprisingly easy on the ears. This album features female
vocalist Costanza Francavilla, who has a smooth and silky voice that
is a good match for Tricky's tunes. While the advance CD only features audio
tracks, the actual CD when released will also feature three films and a
video. Vulnerable will no doubt please fans already impressed with
Tricky...but our guess is that many others will also be drawn in by the
sultry and hypnotic tunes on this album. Top picks: "Stay," "Car
Crash," "Moody," "Search and Survive." (Rating:
5)
Unwed Sailor - The Marionette and the Music Box (CD, Burnt
Toast Vinyl, Instrumental)
A simple idea...beautifully executed. While millions of bands and record
companies are whining about money they are losing because fans are copying
CDs...the fellows in Unwed Sailor have solved the problem in their
own unique way. The Marionette and the Music Box is a CD and storybook
set...and each item is integrally tied to the other. The storybook features
paintings by artist extraordinaire Jamie
Hunt, who some folks may know for his creative work with the band
Aspera. For this project, Hunt created models of the characters in
the story and then photographed them in different situations. These photographs
were then used in order to create the paintings. The results are mind bending.
Equally as mind bending are the compositions. Each composition on this album
corresponds to a painting. Interestingly, the instrumentals seem to embody
and capture the spirit of each painting. While there is a small phrase underneath
each painting to describe what is happening, there are no other words used...either
in the paintings or in the music...to explain the events that occur. This
is the sort of creation that should appeal to listeners of all ages all
over the world. It could just as easily be enjoyed by a young child...a
senior citizen...or even a teenage punk. What we like best about this project
is that both pieces stand just as well on their own as they do together.
The booklet is highly entertaining on its own merits...as is the music.
With so many artists and bands heading off in almost identical career routes...these
fellows win by taking their own wonderfully imaginative path. A uniquely
rewarding experience. Highly recommended. Superb. (Rating: 6)
Visionfest - Visionlive (CD & DVD, Thirsty
Ear, Avant garde jazz/modern classical compilation)
This CD and DVD package features performances from the Vision Festival,
an annual event staged in New York's Lower East Side. The artists and performances
featured are extremely unorthodox...stretching the boundaries of jazz beyond
their already exceedingly stretched limits. The CD and DVD both feature
the same nine artists performing in the same order. The audio disc is intriguing...featuring
some rather complex...and at times mind-grinding...explorations. The DVD
is, for the most part, a video documentary...featuring only a minimal amount
of editing and/or effects. Possibly the most entertaining artists featured
are the Billy Bang Trio, the Douglas Ewart Quintet, and the
Matthew Shipp String Trio. Without a doubt, however, the most amazing
performance here is given by bass player Peter Kowald. Watching and
hearing what this man can do with an upright bass is nothing short of astounding.
He does everything to the instrument except drill it full of holes and fill
it with hot syrup. Hunched over his instrument like a madman, Kowald gives
a truly amazing solo performance . No doubt fans of traditional jazz would
have a hard time swallowing this pill...but for those with an adventurous
spirit, this is a great introduction to some of the more obtuse and heady
jazz being performed today... (Rating: 5)
Yeah
Yeah Yeahs - Fever To Tell (CD, Interscope, Rock/pop)
Chances are that Karen O is going to be a big, big star. You can
just see it in her eyes and her facial expression...plus the girl is just
bursting at the seams with sexual tension. She's something like a cross
between P J Harvey and Chrissie Hynde. New York's Yeah
Yeah Yeahs have chalked up a lot of points in a lot of areas in a very
short amount of time. Fever To Tell is a case where the intent of
the musicians playing the songs is just as important as the songs themselves.
This trio is obviously dedicated to their cause...as they crash, bash, burn,
and yell their way through these eleven modern trash rock creations. A lot
of these tracks are noisy indulgence...but the intent behind the noise is
so well-focused that it doesn't really matter. The last track ("Modern
Romance") shows just how good a singer Karen can be when she tones
things down a bit. Expect big things from these folks in the future. A nice
rigid JOLT of an album. (Rating: 5)
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