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February 2006 Reviews by
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February 2006 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
February 2006
Comment Piece:
Turn Your Back On Society
This month we suggest that you turn your back on society. The news, the government, groups of every shape and kind, and all the wonderful people of the world...turn your back on them all and live your life in seclusion. Seclusion has many benefits. It is more pleasurable, less stressful, and just plain smarter.
So...the next time someone asks you to join an organization...or to contribute to a charity...or to vote...just say NO.
The farther you remove yourself from the world...the BETTER you will FEEL.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Peter
Adams - The Spiral Eyes (CD, Subcircle
Productions, Pop)
Although copyrighted in 2004, we just received a copy of The Spiral Eyes
from the kind folks at Tinderbox Music. An unknown at present, young singer/songwriter
Peter Adams is a man whose music will probably find a large audience
in the very near future. The folks at MTV have already licensed the tracks
from this album for use on their broadcasts and Adams was also chosen Singer/Songwriter
of the Year at the Cincinnati Entertainment Awards ceremony. These wouldn't
be such impressive occurrences if it were not for the fact that Peter's
music is rather obtuse and odd. Perhaps folks in the world of commercial
music are beginning to open their minds a bit...? Well, we wouldn't count
on that...but in this case we do agree with the industry sorts. The
Spiral Eyes is a great album. Peter's soft, subdued songs have a strange
sticking quality that is missing in music created by many new artists. His
words are personal and thoughtful and he composes excellent melodies. Smooth,
gliding tracks include "Cementalisque," "When the Morning
Dies," "The Invention of Nuclear Power," and "Elevators."
Impressive and unique. (Rating: 5+)
Aloha - Some Echoes (CD, Polyvinyl
Record Company, Progressive pop)
This band's last album (Here Comes Everyone) was warmly received
by critics. Some Echoes is likely to have a greater and even more
lasting impact. Aloha is Cale Parks, Matthew Gengler,
T.J. Lipple, and Tony Cavallario...four fellows whose love
of music caused them to unite to make their own unique sounds. The songs
on Some Echoes recall a variety of other artists...yet ultimately
don't sound that much like any one band in particular. True to the claim
of another reviewer, some of the band's ideas may be attributed to an affection
for early Genesis albums. The songs are, for the most part, subtle
and subdued...but some of the musical passages and arrangements are rather
complex, with slight jazz and classical influences. There are some beautiful
tunes here. Fans are likely to get big chills from tracks like "Brace
Your Face," "Between the Walls," "Come Home," and...particularly..."If
I Lie Down." Unusual and mesmerizing. (Rating: 5)
Aqualung - Strange & Beautiful (CD/DVD DualDisc, Columbia, Soft pop)
Aqualung is Matt Hales...a British fellow with a mindblowing
knack for writing tunes and a truly exceptional voice. A lot of money is
being pumped into this young man's career...which might be a bad thing if
it were not for the fact that this fellow's music has the substance to
make it all work. Strange & Beautiful is a DualDisc (CD on
one side, DVD on the other). The DVD features the entire album in enhanced
stereo plus a short film by Matt's brother, interviews, and additional video
footage. This album is being released to precede Matt's upcoming tour opening
for David Grey...whose fans are almost certain to become instant
Aqualung addicts. Hales does not produce noisy underground dribble. His
tunes are highly melodic, incorporating all the right elements from classic
pop...and reinventing them along the way. Matt's piano-propelled pop is
smooth...and glides along effortlessly. The words and melodies seem to come
straight from the heart, which may explain why his music rises above the
glossy, articulate arrangements. One thing is certain. Matt Hales is destined
to be a major player in pop music in the years ahead. Dynamite tracks include
"Strange & Beautiful," "Falling Out of Love," "Breaking
My Heart," and "Another Little Hole." (Rating: 5+)
Butthole Mountain (Film)
Because the first movie (Brokeback Mountain) received so many Golden
Globe Awards, Director Ang Lee was quick to film a follow up. Butthole
Mountain picks up where Brokeback Mountain left off. This love
story about two cowboys in the early 1960s gets a bit more intense this
time around. Co-stars Ennis Del Mar (Heath Ledger) and Jack Twist
(Jake Gyllenhaal) again deliver stunning performances as their love
for one another continues to grow and evolve. The movie begins with Ennis
excreting an unusually large mountain dump while Jack watches with lustful
greed. As the two lean over to inspect the mountain more closely, they give
each other a deep, longing, sloppy kiss. That kiss leads them off into several
seductive pony romps, as they quickly shed their clothes and begin to square
dance in the neighbor's barn. The secret hidden love between the two characters
grows and evolves as they frequently plow each other so hard that they begin
bleeding. As the blood flows harder and warmer, the two begin to cry as
they eventually cross examine their affair and realize that their homosexuality
is nothing more than a mild form of mental retardation. The film ends as
the two decide to hang themselves, offering one final jolt of autoerotic
asphyxiation in the process. Beautifully touching and sinfully nauseating,
this love story will turn even the sissiest of sissies into roaring heterosexuals.
(Rating: 1)
Cavalier
King - The Sun Revolutions (CD, Rubric, Pop/rock)
Imagine Jim Morrison singing songs written by David Bowie...and
you might have some idea of what Cavalier King sounds like. The band
is the alter-ego of singer/songwriter Chris Taylor. Chris isn't just
another noisy underground art rocker. His songs are classy, classic, and
extraordinarily melodic. Although he isn't obviously borrowing or stealing
his sound from any particular artists, Taylor's songs sound surprisingly
familiar. The Sun Revolutions is a short album clocking in at about
37 minutes...but in that brief amount of time this young man proves that
he is a real contender in the world of music. Killer cuts include "Renegade,"
"The Unprotected," "Cavalier King," "The War Is
On," and "Victory." Great stuff...recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Etienne
de Rocher - Etienne de Rocher (CD, Fog City, Pop)
Classic underground pop. Etienne de Rocher traveled from his home
state of Alabama to attend the University of California at Berkeley...eventually
opting to drop out so he could focus on his music. de Rocher was offered
a deal with Capitol Records but just before inking the deal...he didn't
feel right about things so he made the wise decision to go with San Francisco's
independent label Fog City Records. Label founder Dan Prothero co-produced
this album with Etienne. The result is an impressively mature and thoughtful
collection of soft pop gems. The songs on this album are not underground
sloppy pop. These ultra-focused tunes are surprisingly polished and amazingly
accessible. Etienne's tunes recall FM radio pop from the 1970s and 1980s
(sounding like early Rick Springfield at times)...but presented with
an updated, professional sound and style. Fifteen tracks, including "Juniper
Rose," "Six Feet," "Come Twilight," and "The
Lizard Song." Good stuff. (Rating: 4++++)
Devics - Push the Heart (CD, Filter
US Recordings, Pop)
Beautiful, lush, dreamy pop. The folks at Filter US Recordings have once
again proven their exquisite taste by signing Devics. The band is
the duo consisting of vocalist Sara Lov and multi-instrumentalist
Dustin O'Halloran. Lov and O'Halloran are originally from Los Angeles
but made the wise decision to relocate to Italy. Together, the two create
wonderfully intricate soft progressive pop with a difference. O'Halloran's
finely tuned arrangements provide the perfect cushion for Lov's soft and
soothing vocals. The music is somewhat reminiscent of Azure Ray in
overall tone and mood....but a bit more poppy and accessible. While Lov
handles the vocal duties on most of these tracks, the cuts on which O'Halloran
sings are equally pleasing. A thoroughly satisfying spin, Push the Heart
is absolutely superb. Top picks: "Lie To Me," "Song For a
Sleeping Girl," "Moments," "Come Up." (Rating:
5++)
Drop down and give me twenty.
Drop down and give me thirty.
Drop down and give me something just
Drop down and give.(Rating: 1)
Everyone is dull and boring,
Dull and boring,
Dull and boring.Everything is dull and boring,
Dull and boring,
Dull and boring.But why is everything dull and boring,
Dull and boring,
Dull and boring?Contemplation is dull and boring,
Dull and boring,
Dull and boring.(Rating: 1)
The
Eames Era - Double Dutch (CD, C Student, Pop)
The debut album from Baton Rouge, Louisiana's The Eames Era is an
immediate HIT. This band had a lot of people talking about their previous
release (The Second EP). Double Dutch picks up where that
EP left off...as the band delivers eleven effervescent pop tunes that recall
classic pop artists from the past three decades. The band's tunes are simple,
slick, and clean...allowing the listener to concentrate on the instantly
addictive vocal talents of Ashlin Phillips. This young lady has a
crystal clear voice that really stands out. But make no mistake about it,
Double Dutch is a group effort...as all five members contributed
in writing the songs. The band's guitar-based pop is reminiscent of the
first couple of albums from Boston's criminally overlooked 1990s band Fuzzy.
Pure feelgood pop is getting harder and harder to find these days. These
folks do it right. Catchy cuts include "Go To Sleep," "Got
Your Note," "Talk Talk," and "Promises." (Rating:
5+)
Elliott
Brood - Ambassador (CD, Six Shooter, Alternative country/rockabilly/pop)
Canada's Elliott Brood is a band with an inventive sound and image.
Rarely do we hear alternative country pop bands from Canada. Ambassador
features twelve tunes that effectively combine country, rockabilly, and
pop into one big cohesive ball of entertainment. The vocals are particularly
intriguing...ranging from subtle almost whispered phrases to more aggressively
delivered ranch hand yelps. The band consists of Casey Laforet, Steve
Pitkin, and Mark Sasso...three fellows who seem to have in intuitive
sense of what they're doing. Classy and focused, this band is clearly on
the right path. Top picks: "Twill," "Second Son," "Johnny
Rooke," "Superior." (Rating: 5)
Jack
Endino - Permanent Fatal Error (CD,
Wondertaker, Rock)
Lots of folks are familiar with the bands Jack Endino has produced (Nirvana,
Zeke, Black Halos, Boss Martians)...but most are probably
not as familiar with his own music. Originally a member of the 1980s/1990s
band Skin Yard, Endino has only now begun to reignite his own musical
career. Jack's music is not what you would expect. Producers usually make
super slick music that sounds...not surprisingly...overproduced. This is
most certainly not the case with Permanent Fatal Error. This
is, first and foremost, a rock and roll album. The rhythms are precise and
dynamic and the guitars are loud and in your face. But what really makes
this album kick are the vocals. Endino has a superbly effective masculine
voice that is urgent and focused. Permanent Fatal Error features
fifteen finely tuned rockers including "Count Me Out," "Elusive,"
"Reach," "Flight of the Wax Tadpole," and "Bringing
Me Down." Loud and rather...fantastic. (Rating: 5++)
Fast
Eddie Music Conspiracy - The Kids Dig It
(Independently released CD-R, Progressive rock)
Combining elements of 1970s progressive rock with 1990s hard rock, pop,
and heavy metal, the fellows in Maryland's Fast Eddie Music Conspiracy
aren't following any specific trends in music. This band is a good example
of just how evolved some independent bands have become as a result of technology.
Playing the game their own way, these guys manage to record and release
impressively focused and polished songs that are somewhat accessible...yet
simultaneously artistically credible. Instead of playing sloppy underground
dribble, these smart gents play together like one tight, focused unit. All
four members are accomplished on their instruments, and their songs are
ultimately imaginative and satisfying. Ten cool cruisers here including
"Boot to the Head," "Automatic," "Monstrosity,"
and "In the Name of the Machine." If they had the chance to hear
this album, chances are that the kids really would dig it. Good stuff.
(Rating: 4++++)
Figurines - Skeleton (CD, Control
Group, Progressive pop)
The press release that accompanied this CD pretty much nailed the sound
of Figurines...describing the band as sounding something like The
Strokes and Built To Spill (among others). The gentlemen in this
Denmark-based quartet create melodic danceable pop/rock that is smooth and
melodic...yet anything but predictable. Skeleton, the band's second
full-length release, features fourteen subtle tracks. The band's fragile
vocals are probably the most distinctive part of their overall sound. But
songs are the real focus here, as the material on Skeleton is thoroughly
engaging from start to finish. While there are no easy singalong choruses,
the band's tunes have definite sticking qualities. Destined to be a favorite
among underground pop fans and reviewers, Skeleton gets better with
repeated spins. Top picks: "Race You," "All Night,"
"Remember," "Continuous Songs," "Release Me On
The Floor." (Rating: 5++)
ft (The Shadow Government) - Guns of August (CD, Scenester
Credentials, Progressive rock)
The first track on this album ("Dissent is Democracy") immediately
catches the listener's attention...as various children read chillingly real
thoughts and ideas exposing how the U.S. Government has become the enemy
of its citizens. Immediately following, the band gets down to business...delivering
their odd progressive rock tunes with insistent fury. ft (The Shadow
Government) was previously known as Flaccid Trip...but apparently
there are few similarities between the two bands other than personnel. Guns
of August is a strange, gripping spin. Most bands claim to be unique
and original...but these fellows really are. Though some of the messages
in the music are of rebellion, the songs are anything but punk or
heavy metal. By combining identifiable elements with plenty of unpredictable
sounds and ideas, this band has come up with an album that challenges listeners
without scaring them away. The only cover tune is a strangely hypnotic interpretation
of Marc Bolan's "Organ Blues." Guns of August is
an album that will hopefully ignite people in their thoughts to actually
do something with their lives. Uniquely creative. (Rating: 5+)
Give birth to puppies.
Give birth to kittens.
Give birth to chickens.
Give birth
For the hell of it.(Rating: 1)
God helps those who help themselves.
God cleans those who cleanse themselves.
God helps elves who help other elves.
God makes shelves for those who make shelves themselves.
God dresses pretty for those who dress pretty themselves.
God blows his nose at those who blow their own noses.
God shakes his booty at those who shake their own booties.
God throws temper tantrums at those who throw their own temper tantrums.
God opens up fancy new popular nightclubs for those who open their own fancy new popular nightclubs.
God makes silk dresses for those who can't make their own silk dresses.(Rating: 1)
Goodmorning
Valentine - Steady Your Hands (CD, Collectible Escalators,
Soft pop/Americana)
Nice, smooth, pensive Americana-based soft pop. Centered around the songwriting
skills of Joey Beltram, this band has a sound that is slick, direct,
and effective. Beltram's tunes recall some of the more subdued songs recorded
by Jay Farrer. Steady Your Hands is slow and reflective...incorporating
a wide variety of instruments and styles. The lyrics and melodies are exceptional
throughout all twelve tracks. Beltram's deep, mournful voice is perfect
for the style of songs he composes. Top picks: "Tiger and the Leper,"
"So Long...", "Invitation," "Why Do You Bother."
(Rating: 5+)
Gregor
Samsa - 55:12 (CD, The
Kora Records, Progressive pop)
While the band consists of main members Champ Bennett, Nikki King,
Jason Laferrera, and Billy Bennett...twenty or more people
are listed as contributors on this, the first full-length Gregor Samsa
release. 55:12 features eight compositions that are decidedly lacking
in commercial appeal. Rather than creating music in an attempt to be the
latest underground rage, the folks in Gregor Samsa are creating music out
of pure artistic integrity. As such, there are no danceable rhythms...no
catchy choruses...and virtually nothing that is immediately familiar. The
songs cover territory that ranges from subdued ambience to gothic-like drones.
The vocals are hushed and subtle. Beautifully different, 55:12 is
destined to be a favorite among reviewers and true fans of the underground.
(Rating: 5)
Guided
By Voices - Suitcase 2 (4 CD box set,
Luna Music, Pop)
The second in a series of CD box sets featuring demos and unreleased recordings
by Robert Pollard's Guided By Voices. There seems to be some
debate as to whether or not recordings like this should be released. But...considering
the fact that when somebody dies all of this sort of stuff gets released
anyway...we say, why not? This is the kinda thing that will
only be truly appreciated by folks who are already fans of Guided By Voices.
But, as such, this box set is an intriguing spin that sheds more light on
the astounding, prolific talents of Robert Pollard. The set includes a booklet
detailing when each track was recorded and who played on what...as well
as some great old photos of the band. One hundred songs are featured on
these four discs. Some are haphazard scraps and pieces to be certain...but
others are surprisingly focused and memorable pop songs. While we can only
recommend this for die-hard fans, those fans are going to find some absolutely
killer gems in this set. Includes "Rocket Head," "Happy at
the Drag Strip," "You're Not the Queen Anymore," "Two
or Three Songs," "Boston Spaceships," "Invisible Exercise,"
"Home By Ten" and many, many more... (Rating: 5+)
Heros
Severum - Plague Dogs (CD, Two Sheds Music, Pop/rock)
Herky jerky spastic modern pop that recalls 1970s bands like Gang of
Four. Heros Severum is Eric Friar, Sherryl Branch,
and Davey Station. Plague Dogs is the band's second full-length
release...a rather impressive jolt of modern pop/rock. Rather than follow
current trends or play familiar riffs and grooves, these folks most certainly
have their own unique sound and style. Although the music is rooted in pop
and rock, the underlying rhythms are funky and ultimately danceable. The
vocals are unusual...harmonies and backing vocals are layered in such a
way that they sound odd stacked over the stop-and-go arrangements. These
folks are taking lots of risks...and most of them work surprisingly well.
Kickass rockers include "Let's Go Swimming," "I Can,"
"A Sick Dog," and "A Nice Haircut." (Rating: 4++++)
Howdy do, metal punk.
Howdy do to you.Howdy do, tatooed skinhead.
Howdy do to you.Howdy do, painted lady.
Howdy do to you.Howdy do, generic farmhand.
Howdy do to you too.(Rating: 1)
Isn't she a beauty?
Isn't she beautiful?
Isn't she shitty?Isn't he lovely?
Isn't he wonderful?
Isn't he shitty?Isn't life cool?
Isn't life neat?
Isn't life shitty?(Rating: 1)
Coretta Scott King (Miscellaneous dead wife of a generic civil rights leader)
Considering all of her impressive accomplishments and contributions to society,
Coretta Scott King certainly earned her rating. (Rating: 1)
Lilys
- Everything Wrong Is Imaginary (CD, Manifesto,
Pop/rock)
Kurt Heasley is a man of many talents whose songs are difficult to
describe and comprehend. Lilys, the name for the revolving group
of musicians he uses from album to album, was such an original sounding
concept in the first few years of existence that many people were lost in
the heady confusion of the music. Over time, however, Heasley modified his
sound to appeal to a wider cross section of people...and, as such, Lilys
albums suffered in the process. The last few releases (Precollection
and The Three Way in particular) just didn't live up to most fans'
expectations. We are proud to announce that with the release of Everything
Wrong Is Imaginary, the band has returned in fine form. Gone are the
hints of commercial appeal and predictability...having been replaced by
Heasley's original creativity. The ten tracks on this album are unusual
and unpredictable...the fantastic vocal melodies sometimes almost buried
beneath the spacey arrangements. The overall sound is surreal and effervescent.
This isn't quite as overwhelming and fulfilling as Ecsame The Photon
Band (easily the best Lilys release ever)...but it sure comes close.
Diehard fans will be gushing over tracks like "Black Carpet Magic,"
"A Diana's Diana," "The Night Sun Over San Juan," and
"O.I.C.U.R." Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Ian
Love - Ian Love (CD, Limekiln,
Soft pop)
Ian Love sounds something like a young underground Paul Simon.
His soft, melodic tunes are driven by an acoustic guitar and layered with
intelligent arrangements and clean vocal overdubs. Love was previously in
the bands Rival Schools and Cardia before making the decision
to go solo. Judging from the biography that accompanied this disc, Love
doesn't mind sharing his personal life with his listeners. This young man
has been through a lot of ordeals in music thus far...and the resulting
maturity gained is obvious throughout this album. Ian's songs have intriguing
depth and seem to flow naturally from his soul. Cool introspective tracks
include "The Only Night," "Old Enough," "Heart
A Song," and "It's Not Over." (Rating: 4++++)
I want to live
In a mighty big house.
I want to make
Mighty big sums of money.
I want to go
On mighty fine trips.
I want to have hips
Just like goddamn Mighty Mouse.(Rating: 1)
Moi? - Moi? (CD, Crustacean,
Pop/rock)
Moi? is a different sort of band playing a style of music that is
out-of-synch with most other bands of the twenty-first century. The tunes
on Moi? recall classic artists from the 1970s and 1980s. Songwriter
Peter Kohl has a real knack for churning out upbeat, accessible tunes
that sound like hits. Moi? consists of Royce Peterson, Vinnie
Domingo, Julian Lovechild Maile, Dr. Benjamin Parish,
and Chris Co Anderson. Unlike most underground bands, these fellows
play music that is smooth and easy...and often catchy as hell. Cool hummable
tracks include "This Is All That I Wanted," "Housecall,"
"When She Wakes Up It Is Cold," and "Whoa Mama." Good
stuff. (Rating: 4++++)
The Moore Brothers - Murdered by The Moore Brothers (CD, Plain
Recordings, Acoustic pop)
The Moore Brothers write music that is clearly out-of-place in today's
market. Thank God for that. Murdered by The Moore Brothers
is an absolutely beautiful collection of soft pop tunes that are centered
around the magnetic vocals of brothers Greg and Thom Moore.
The Moore brothers write classic pop music that recalls some of the best
artists of the 1960s and 1970s...presenting their songs with appropriately
sparse arrangements that allow the listener to concentrate on the melodies
and lyrics. These guys easily stand out from the majority of underground
artists mainly because they have obvious and real talent. Their songs
are thoughtful, memorable, and sincere...and the harmony vocals are absolutely
fantastic. Killer tracks include "Wish You'd Say," "The Auditorium
Birds," "Pyramid," "Girl With a Light," and "I
Let Myself Go." Truly great music. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Pagoda - Seven Nights EP (Independently released CD EP, Progressive
pop)
More smooth, moody, progressive pop from Pagoda. This Washington,
D.C.-based band presents five songs that are soft and fuzzy...and calm and
dreamy. The title track is particularly cool and peculiar...slightly reminiscent
of early material from the 1970s British progressive band Curved Air.
Seven Nights is wonderfully atmospheric...and will have the band's
fans eagerly awaiting their next full-length release... (Rating: 5+)
The
Playwrights - English Self Storage (CD,
Sink & Stove, Progressive
pop/rock)
British-based band The Playwrights have a lot of people talking...and
for good reasons. Though the band has been sieged with a few setbacks in
their career thus far, 2005 saw them getting in gear with a real recording
session. English Self Storage is the result. The fellows in this
band play slightly spastic but very melodic upbeat pop music that is counterbalanced
by some intriguing guitar playing. Rather than aping a single sound or style,
these fellows combine unlikely influences to create their own brand of modern
urban pop. While usually easy on the ears, the tunes on Self Storage
are often deceptively adventurous and complex. The band consists of Aaron
Dewey, Nathan Edmunds, Tom Mills, Hector Peebles,
and Benjamin Shillabeer...five guys who seem to have an intuitive
sense of what the others are thinking. Heady, unpredictable tunes include
"Why We've Become Invisible," "Central Heating In The Summer
Season," and "Leave It For The Archaeologists." Well done.
(Rating: 5)
All bow down
To the popular pigs.
All watch and listen
To the popular pigs.Popular pigs
Come in all shapes and sizes
And in all the colors
Of the goddamn rainbow.Popular pigs
Snort and grovel with glee
Because popular pigs
Get whatever they please.(Rating: 1)
If you want to say "please"...
Don't say it.If you want to say "thank you"...
Don't say it.Don't say anything
To anyone
Ever.(Rating: 1)
Rancho
Deluxe - Rancho Deluxe (Independently
released CD, Country/pop)
If you enjoy Toby Keith a great deal but find his music far too slick
and calculated, you may very well find a dependable fix in Los Angeles,
California's Rancho Deluxe. This trio has it all...great tunes, killer
vocals, and they've totally got their chops down on their instruments. The
band consists of Mark Adams, Jesse Jay Harris, and Graham
Harris...but other artists lending a helping hand include JayDee
Maness, Don Heffington, Michael Witcher, and Megan
Lynch. Rancho Deluxe is a big thick sounding album...but what
makes the disc such a treat are the songs. Adams has a great macho voice
that really drives the tunes. The playing is spirited and genuine from start
to finish...sometimes absolutely mind-blowing (you'll have to hear the guitar
playing in "On The Fence" to believe it). This album is
a pure feelgood listening experience...created out of a genuine love for
making music. Killer tracks include "Rock Bottom," "Follow
Your Heart," "Lonesome Home Security," "Hey You,"
and "Small Town Gossip." Great stuff. (Rating: 5++)
The Sems - Any Day Ago (CD, Luna
Music, Soft pop)
The Sems is the one-man band consisting of Pete Bogolub. Pete
recorded Any Day Ago in his home studio and then did the mixdown
with assistance from producer Mike Pecchio. This album features beautifully
gliding indie pop with some rather spacey and intricate arrangements. Bogolub's
vocals are decidedly subtle and understated...yet the words and melodies
manage to shine through these sometimes busy tracks. Any Day Ago
sounds something like a cross between Brian Eno and Donovan...except
more current sounding than either. This album features fourteen lovely gliding
tracks that include "A Lonely Place To Be," "The Last Noise,"
"Float In Space," and "Yesteryear." Beautifully constructed
soft progressive pop. (Rating: 5)
The
Sounds - Dying To Say This To You (CD,
New Line, Pop)
The Sounds...a new girl band with a rockin' sound similar to Sahara
Hotnights. The extraordinarily accessible tunes on Dying To Say This
To You are anything but a turn off. These young ladies manage
to tread that fine line between artistic integrity and commercial accessibility
without missing a beat. And there are plenty of groovy, danceable beats
to be found on this album. The rhythms and melodies are decidedly radio
friendly...yet these songs are delivered with such sincere attitude that
it is almost impossible to not like them. Hummable cuts include "Song
With a Mission," "Tony the Beat," "Don't Want to Hurt
You," and "Running Out of Turbo." Decidedly catchy and fashionable
modern. (Rating: 4++++)
Sparks - Hello Young Lovers (CD, In
The Red, Progressive pop)
Sounding something like L'il Beethoven Part II, Sparks' latest
release is yet another perplexing and splendidly enjoyable addition to their
mind-expanding catalog. The band's twentieth album, Hello Young Lovers
finds Ron and Russell Mael's tunes as peculiar and essential
as ever. The album begins with what might be described as Sparks' version
of "Bohemian Rhapsody"..."Dick Around" is unpredictable
and somewhat operatic in nature...weaving in and out of styles and melodies
effortlessly very much like Queen's signature track. The song sounds
like a perfect merging of the sounds found on Propaganda and L'il
Beethoven. After catching your breath from the lead track, "Perfume"
follows...perhaps the only slightly weak track on the album. But never mind...because
the remaining eight tracks are clever, unforgettable, and fantastic. Few
if any bands this late in their career could produce a masterpiece like
this...but Ron and Russell have always been exceptions to the normal rules
that apply to music. Who but the Maels could produce a song linking the
words to the national anthem with the chorus: "Can I invade your
country, baby baby...can I invade your country?." Totally hilarious.
By sticking to their guns and refusing to follow trends, the Mael brothers
manage to outdo just about everyone. Hello Young Lovers is bound
to please the band's persistently devoted fans. Other folks will, unfortunately,
probably be just as alienated and confused as they were three decades ago.
No matter. These guys are obviously still doing what they do for personal
satisfaction. As with all Sparks albums, Hello Young Lovers is HIGHLY
RECOMMENDED. (Rating: 6+++)
She put a feather
In her asshole
And shook it all around.She put a rifle
In her asshole
And blew it like a clown.She put a megaphone
In her asshole
And shouted to the world.She put a congressman
In her asshole
And shitted like a squirrel.(Rating: 1)
The world is lovely so
Shut up about it.Life is worth living so
Shut up about it.Nothing means anything so
Shut up about it.Shut whatever needs to be shut and
Shut up about it.(Rating: 1)
Stranger
Lazy - The Cox Sintrific (Independently
released CD, Pop/rock)
Good solid entertainment. Indianapolis, Indiana's Stranger Lazy is
a cool band with excellent songs. The tunes on The Cox Sintrific
are reminiscent of early Guided By Voices. You won't hear lots of
unnecessary overdubs and fake glossy studio polish here...only super catchy
melodic tunes that get better the more you spin 'em. Excellent guitar riffs
combine with above average lyrics...creating an intelligent musical climate
where this quartet explores their musical creativity. Fourteen clever tracks
here, including "And I Punched It," "Hello Mr. Boombox,"
"Solar Cop," and "Kidneystones and Palindromes." Smart
and inventive. (Rating: 5)
The
Strokes - First Impressions of Earth
(CD, RCA, Pop/rock)
This, the third album from The Strokes, is a classic. After releasing
a fantastic debut album (Is This It?) that blew most people away,
the band followed up with a very good...but not incredible...second release
(Room On Fire). The sophomore album was entertaining but a bit too
similar to the debut. First Impressions of Earth picks up where the
first album left off...hitting the listener with a much tighter, thicker,
and focused sound. To put it simply, this album rocks like holy hell.
The songs are uplifting and highly melodic and the delivery is top notch.
As usual, the guitar interplay between Nick Valenski and Albert
Hammond, Jr. is dynamite. Nikolai Fraiture and Fab Moretti
create tight and heavy rhythms while chief songwriter Julian Casablancas
provides the focal point with his Jim Morrison-inspired vocals. Having
just been released so early in the year, First Impressions is already
destined to be on a great many best of lists for the year. Killer tracks
include "You Only Live Once," "On The Other Side," "Fear
Of Sleep," and "Red Light." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The
Subways - Young for Eternity (CD, Sire, Power pop/punk)
Loud and abrasive power pop/punk played with enthusiastic determination.
This London, England-based trio has a mighty big sound...and tunes that
sound like instant underground hits. The band consists of Billy Lunn
(guitar, vocals), Charlotte Cooper (bass, vocals), and Josh Morgan
(drums). The appropriately-titled Young for Eternity features twelve
nasty little pop tracks that are most likely to appeal to young listeners.
The band rocks hard...while never dispensing with melodies and identifiable
song structures. In some ways, The Subways sound like a cross between
The Jam and The Smashing Pumpkins...except much more modern
and current than either. Great sounding thick and gritty guitars.
A band to keep an eye on... (Rating: 4++++)
The
Telescopes - Auditory Illusions (CD,
Double Agent, Experimental)
Britain's Telescopes have managed to confuse and alienate many people
over the years. The band's music is unconventional, obtuse, and almost entirely
lacking in commercial accessibility. On Auditory Illusions, the band
consists of Stephen Laurie, Jo Doran, and Lorin Hals Hall.
The three lengthy audio tracks on this EP were recorded live...thus involving
the creativity and spontaneity that has made the band a cult favorite. This
disc also includes a video of "Flying" (requires Quicktime to
play). The Telescopes have been one of our top favorites for years now.
This EP is yet another must have. Limited edition release, only 500 copies
being made available. Get 'em while they're hot. (Rating: 5+)
Voices & Organs - Orphanage (CD, Western
Vinyl, Obtuse progressive pop)
Blurry, slightly surreal ambient pop. Sweden's Voices & Organs
is a truly obtuse pop band driven by the unusual songwriting talents of
Per Lindmark. Sounding something like listening to a soft pop album
while old 78s and an AM radio are playing in the background, Orphanage
is a peculiar yet inviting spin. Lindmark's tunes are slow and methodical...sometimes
almost completely drenched in effects and background noise. As a result,
this album will definitely not appeal to everyone. The recording
method(s) used are rather strange and unorthodox. But songs are what matter...and
there are some beautifully constructed melodies hidden beneath the surface
here. Eighteen curious cuts including "Any Day Now," "Nestlings,"
"Boychild," and "Idle Words on Empty Pages." (Rating:
4++++)
Young
and Sexy - Panic When You Find It (CD,
Mint, Soft progressive pop)
Fresh, effervescent soft pop from Canada's Young and Sexy. Panic
When You Find It features ten subtle, thought provoking tracks...most
of which are slow, moody, and methodical. The band is centered around the
songwriting talents of Paul Hixon Pittman and the vocal talents of
Lucy Brain. This, the band's third album, finds them sounding acutely
focused as they deliver finely-tuned compositions that are sure to stand
the test of time. Lucy's vocals are a perfect match for Pittman's often
unpredictable melody lines. The arrangements are progressive in nature,
although usually only incorporating elements that are essential for the
tunes to work. Dreamy, soft, and slightly surreal...Panic When You Find
It is bound to gently melt in your mind...not in your hands. Top picks:
"Your Enemy's Asleep," "All the Little Girls and Boys,"
"Conventional Lullabies," "Satellite." (Rating: 5+)
Air Supply - The singer and the song
Below the Sound - Three
Benlavain - Come on people
The Besties - Singer
Black Angels - Passover
Randy Boone - Ignoble daydreams for impudent minds
box_ - box_
BPA - Maybe use my knife
Carol Bui - This is how i recover
Burning Idols - The feeding bird
Casiontone for the Painfully Alone - Etiquette
Catalog Debris - Seven degrees from center
Cerrito - South of the border
Xeven Cervenka - Sev7en
Circuit - Eau de humanity
Clogs - Lantern
Connor Rand and the Red Dirt Band - Connor Rand and the Red Dirt Band
Copperheard - Remedy
Crushkill Destroy - Metric midnight
Crystal and the Wolves - Shapinska rock
Dafni - Drifting in circles
Dead Next Door - Time to fight
Dear and the Headlights - Dear and the Headlights
Depth Affect - Arche lymb
DJ Markitos - Unreachable destiny
Mike Downey - Adventure, bless, and don't be sorry
Electric Six - Senor smoke
Flipping the Pig - Pout
Folly - Resist convenience
Gary D. and the Fabulous Armadillos - Diary of a decade
George Lesiw Band - Anuta was here
Ghostigital - In god we trust
Guajiro - Guajiro
Harlan - The still beat
Taylor Hollingsworth - Tragic city
Eric Kamen - Native unit
Seth Kauffman - Ting
Arden Kaywin - Quarter life crisis
Gerson Kelly - Junto a mi
Killdozer - The last waltz
Pete Kronowitt - Elements
Landlord - Glitterati
Dave Lombardi - Guardian muse
Lylas - Lessons for lovers
Masters of the Universe - Don't block the box
Wes McDonald - In the furnace
Mellowdrone - Box
The Messiah - 26
Me Talk Pretty - Ana
Mr. Anonymous - Mr. Anonymous
Shawn Mullins - 9th ward pickin' parlour
Nine Black Alps - Everything is
No Trigger - Canyoneer
Picket Line - Chapter: end
Megan Reilly - Let your ghost go
Alan Semerdjian - When there was something wrong with you
SevenOneFive - We don't feel like this for free
Small Faces - Under review: An independent critical analysis
Stoley P.T. - Lesson #1
Straiht Wikid Crew - Kali yuga demolition vol. 1
The Strays - Life support/bastards of young
The Super-Scary Monster Show Featuring Little Gloomy - Walker and Jones
Terrestrial Tones - Dead drunk
Theo and the Skyscrapers - Theo and the Skyscrapers
Third Sight - Symbionese liberation album
Towers of London - How rude she was EP
Rhonda Towns - I wanna be loved by you
Various artists - A Hospital Records compilation
Various artists - SXW 2005 Crustacean Records sampler
Various artists - Take action! Volume 5
The Wails - Via
We Are The Fury - Infinite Jest
Jason Whitton - Thiftstore cowboy
Wolfmother - Dimensions
Wooden Wand & The Vanishing Voice - Gipsy freedom
Mike Younger - Every stone you throw
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