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May 2006 Reviews by
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May 2006 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= UNBELIEVABLY INCREDIBLE
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
Choosy Mothers
Choosy mothers
Choose
Toothless gerbils.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Act like you care.
Act like you are interested.
Act like you are listening.
Act like you should
Act.(Rating: 1)
Apollo
Up - Chariots of Fire (CD, Theory 8, Rock)
Smart, herky jerky loud rock with balls and fire. Apollo Up is the
Nashville-based trio consisting of Jay Phillips (guitar, vocals),
Mike Shepherd (bass), and Jereme Frey (drums). So many loud
rock bands are bad carbon copies of one another. As a result, Apollo Up
is one great big refreshing jolt of originality. Instead of going for that
all-too-familiar twenty-first century loud alternative rock band sound that
we've all heard before, these folks follow their own muse...and in the process
of doing so, create some wonderfully cool and clever hard rock. There are
plenty of progressive elements thrown into these tunes which are bound to
keep listeners on their toes. Infectious rhythms, spastic guitars, and great
masculine vocals collide to create a big massive whirlwind of nifty modern
rock. Cool smart abrasive rockers include "Walking the Plank,"
"No Song," "Even If You Don't Die," and "Tennessee
For Victory." (Rating: 5+)
Art
Brut - Bang Bang Rock & Roll (CD,
Downtown, Rock)
Charging out of the gates with the hypnotic repetition of "Formed A
Band," we immediately fell in love with Great Britain's Art Brut.
Neither popsters nor posers, the folks in this band deliver a whopping jolt
of energy with true enthusiasm and flair. Unlike 95% of the CDs we receive,
these folks' write lyrics that are smart, perceptive, and very funny. The
tunes on Bang Bang Rock & Roll sound something like a cross between
King Missile and Gang of Four (more the former than the latter).
Most bands either play light pop or unlistenable noise rock. These folks
deliver a big punch...all the while focusing on intelligence and creativity.
The playing is top notch from start to finish..and we really love vocalist
Eddie Argos' super thick accent. Full of attitude and power, this
band is doing everything right. Fierce rockers include "My Little Brother,"
"Modern Art," "18,000 Lira," and "Maternity Ward."
This band makes some real statements here... (Rating: 5++)
Tommy Bolin - Whips and Roses (Part One) (German import advance CD,
SPV USA, Rock)
A must have for fans of 1970s rock. At the peak of his career, Tommy
Bolin was chosen by Deep Purple to replace Richie Blackmore.
As if that wasn't enough, Bolin also replaced Joe Walsh in the James
Gang. Sadly, the guitarist died in 1976 from heroin addiction...before
he could really make his own personal mark in the music world. Whips
and Roses (Part One) will help to correct this problem. The ten tracks
on this album spotlight Bolin's fantastic heady playing and impressive vocals.
Just as was the case with Jimi Hendrix, it seems very sad that someone this
talented could have their life and career cut short by a drug as boring
and lethal as heroin. The good news is that a second disc of material will
soon be released as well... (Rating: 5+)
Brookville - Life in the Shade (CD, Unfiltered,
Soft pop)
Soft, moody, melodic pop. Although the specific band members are not noted
on the cover of this album (individual contributors to each track are credited),
from what we can gather Brookville seems to be mainly driven by the
talents of singer/songwriter Andy Chase. Chase obviously has interesting
connections, as folks in rather high profile bands contributed to these
recordings. But rather than just being the result of a hobnob recording
session, Life in the Shade is a compelling and rewarding collection
of smart soft pop tunes. The songs feature great melodies and personal lyrics
that seem genuine and sincere. Unlike many submissions that we receive,
the songs on this CD have the potential to be embraced and adored by a very
large fan base. Thirteen crafty tracks here including "Blue Morning,"
"Slow Emotion Replay," "Life in the Shade," and "Missed
You Again." (Rating: 5)
Brothers and Sisters - Brothers and Sisters (CD, I
Eat Records, Folk/pop)
Folks who dig Neil Young's first few albums are likely to get a mighty
big charge out of Brothers and Sisters. The band consists of of eight
folks from various states who found one another in Austin in 2005 and decided
to make music together. What stands out most about this band is how accessible
and friendly their songs are. Early in their careers, most artists create
obtuse music that doesn't have much commercial potential. This is not
the case here. This album features light, breezy tunes that could easily
appeal to millions of people. The tunes on this album have a slightly hippy-ish
feel that harkens back to California pop from the 1970s. Songs are the ultimate
prize here...and songs are what make this album so appealing. Killer pop
tracks include "New Life," "Sunday Living," "Old
Age," "Old Love Letters," and "Going South." Neat
underground homegrown pop done right. (Rating: 5+)
Take 12 pounds of anorexia
And mix with 15 pounds of
Hairspray.
Add 20 ounces of Yowsuh
And two heaping tablespoons
Of impuned integrity.
Cook until ready.Serves 5 billion idiots.
(Rating: 1)
Czars - Goodbye (CD, Bella
Union / World's Fair,
Pop)
Wow...this is a great album. Folks who love the poppy side of Pink
Floyd and the melodic genius of Harry Nilsson are bound to get
a big kick out of Goodbye. The five gentlemen that make up Czars
(John Grant, Andy Monley, Roger Green, Chris Pearson,
Jeff Linsenmaier) create classic, classy pop that is surprisingly
accessible and direct. Goodbye features just the right mix of traditional
and modern sounds...which makes the album sound like a modern interpretation
of classic tunes from the past. Fantastic melodies...absorbing and effective
arrangements...killer vocals...this band hits home runs in all
categories. You can bet that Goodbye will make a major mark on listeners
in the years ahead. This will easily end up being one of the best albums
of 2006. Top picks: "Goodbye," "My Love," "Trash,"
"Bright Black Eyes." Exceptional. Highly recommended. (Rating:
5++++)
Damone - Out Here All Night (Advance CD-R, Island,
Power pop/rock)
The folks in Damone took their time getting around to putting out
this, their second full-length release. Now, with the support of their new
label (Island), these folks seem poised to make a major breakthrough. Damone
is a powerful band, spewing out catchy melodic pop with a really big sound
and tons of controlled energy. Unlike many bands, these folks look and sound
like true rock stars. And the best part is that...they've got the songs
to back them up. Out Here All Night is bleeding over the edges with
good vibes and infectious melodies. Crunchy guitar hooks abound, layered
over a rhythm section that just won't let up. These folks are playing exactly
what the kids need...great songs played with true enthusiasm. Another excellent
effort from a truly killer band. Top picks: "Now Is the Time,"
"What We Came here For," "You're the One," "Wasted
Years." (Rating: 5+)
Spread a little dammit
Wherever you go.
Spread a little dammit
And watch your head
Grow.(Rating: 1)
Decoder
Ring - Somersault (CD, Bella
Union / World's Fair,
Soft progressive pop)
Soft, soothing, satisfying. The folks in the band Decoder Ring make
music that doesn't fit easily into regular categories. Somersault
is a mature and complex album...yet there are constant creative threads
running through the music. Whether the band is playing instrumentals, soft
pop, or experimental electronic music, they always manage to keep the quality
up. At times this album is accessible and uplifting ("Somersault"
which features guest vocalist Lenka)...while at other times the songs
get rather obtuse and peculiar ("Heidi's Theme [Reprise]"). These
folks are in the business of entertaining their audience...and that is,
perhaps, what makes this album such a gem. All fifteen tracks are intriguing
and fulfilling...and they get better the more you hear them. Exceptional
tracks include "Snowflake," "Music Box," "Alpine
Way," and "Naked Snow." Beautiful stuff...executed to perfection.
Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Demented Are Go - Hellbilly Storm (CD, Hep
Cat, Rock/psychobilly)
Any band that is banned from the United States twenty plus years into their
career is okay with us. The guys in Britain's Demented Are Go are
very popular in subcultural circles, mainly among youngsters who like it
loud, sloppy, and swirling in blood and guts. We have to admit that...amazingly...this
is the first CD we have heard from this band. To our ears, the music sounds
something like a rockabilly version of tunes from the first Alice Cooper
album (Pretties For You). If that sounds odd...that's because it
is. So...even though the band is obviously milking gimmicks used by
artists over and over again...they're using the gimmicks to support songs
that are actually credible and entertaining. Hellbilly Storm
features thirteen fun rockers including "Pedigree Scum," "Out
of Control," "Demon Seed," and "When Death Rides a Horse"
(bonus track). Good stuff delivered with wild abandon. (Rating: 4++++)
Would you like
Coffee with your
Coffee?(Rating: 1)
Dub
Trio - New Heavy (CD, ROIR,
Rock/dub/pop)
Interesting. Very interesting. How many bands can you think of that
effectively combine dub and hard rock...? It may sound odd, but the guys
in Dub Trio take on the task and succeed. When most bands merge musical
styles, it is usually a gimmick to attract attention. That may be a small
part of the equation here...but in actuality these guys write really great
rock songs. The band's tunes are smart, catchy, and filled with neat hooks.
The guitars are particularly meaty and effective. If you think all hard
rock sounds the same, think again. These fellows are loud and powerful...yet
songs are their main focus. New Heavy was produced to perfection,
with a nice thick sound that compliments the band's ideology. Killer tracks
include "Not Alone" (featuring Mike Patton), "Jack
Bauer," "Sunny I'm Kill," and "Cool Out and Coexist."
These tunes truly kick ASS. (Rating: 5+)
Eastern Stars - July 5th, 1961 (CD, Mental
Monkey, Soft pop)
Eastern Stars is the duo consisting of Rob Corradetti and
Kaia Wong, better known for their work in the band Mixel Pixel.
Rob and Kaia recorded this album on an analogue 8-track recorder in 2004...but
the results of those recording sessions are only now seeing the light of
day. July 5th, 1961 features eleven tracks, most of which are soft
and subtle pop compositions. The duo names a wild variety of influences
including The Mamas and the Papas, Galaxie 500, Heavenly,
The Shaggs, and Pink Floyd (!). Obviously an artistic project
created purely out of the joy of making music, this album is simultaneously
peculiar and soothing. Top picks: "They Know," "We Want Yours,"
"In Russian Blue," "Jail Bait Baby." (Rating: 4++++)
Edison
Glass - A Burn or a Shiver (CD, Credential
Recordings, Pop/rock)
Although the band has been together for about seven years, the fellows in
Edison Glass have only now released their debut album. The band sent
producer Brad Wood (Smashing Pumpkins, Sunny Day Real Estate)
a sample of their music. He was so impressed that he invited them out to
his home studio to record A Burn or a Shiver. The album is smart,
peppered with plenty of layered vocals and quirky guitar riffs. These guys
may have made the right choice in opting to delay releasing an album. Now
with years of practice and touring behind them as well as support from professionals
in the music business, they seem poised to make a real mark. Smart rockers
include "My Fair One," "Today Has Wings," "Angelic
in Heart," and "When All We Have Is Taken/Comfort." (Rating:
4+++)
All peoples is liars.
All peoples is thieves.
All peoples is evil.
All peoples has teeves.(Rating: 1)
Final
- 3 (Double CD, Neurot
Recordings, Electronic/experimental)
Final is the solo project created by Justin Broadrick, better
known for his work in the bands Godflesh, Jesu, Napalm
Death, and Techno Animal. Interestingly, Final is the band that
Broadrick created before his work in all of these other projects--he
began Final when he was only 13 years old. Justin eventually decided to
resurrect the project...and recorded this whopping double CD set of experimental
electronic recordings. These moody soundscapes are reminiscent of Scorn
(Mick Harris). The music is, at times, more like sound drones
that mutate and shift until their eventual demise. But unlike ambient music
(most of which tends to sound the same), most of the sounds and ideas on
3 are strange and foreign to the ears. Creepy, surreal, dreamy, and
moody, this is like the soundtrack to a particularly peculiar dream. Top
picks: "The Light Orchestra," "Little Pictures," "Barely
Here," "All We Ever Do." Intriguing stuff. (Rating: 5)
Final
Fantasy - He Poos Clouds (CD, Tomlab, Progressive pop)
It doesn't happen that often, but every once in a while something
arrives here in our plush office suites that is truly unique and unusual.
Final Fantasy is the project spearheaded by Owen Pallett.
Not only does this young man approach songwriting from a strangely peculiar
perspective, but the manner in which he arranges his songs is most unconventional.
Rather than sounding like a modern pop CD, He Poos Clouds has much
more in common with string quartets and chamber music. The overall mood
is subtle and unusual. Pallett's vocals are, for the most part, extremely
soft and hushed. The instrumentation is, perhaps, what makes this album
such a strange listen. Few underground artists are taking an approach that
is even slightly similar to this. He Poos Clouds is much too obtuse
and odd for the average listener...so we can only recommend this to folks
with an adventurous mind and spirit. Neat tracks include "Arctic Circle,"
"This Lamb Sells Condos," "I'm Afraid of Japan," and
"The Pooka Sings." Weird...yet ultimately satisfying. Sometimes
sounds a bit like Sparks at times... (Rating: 5++)
First
Nation - First Nation (CD, Paw Tracks, Progressive art pop)
We've always been big fans of clever and obtuse underground girl groups.
Some of our favorite artsy girl groups from the past few decades include
The G.T.O.'s, Zuzu's Petals, The Red Aunts, and The
Raincoats. Truly unusual girl groups don't seem to pop up often enough.
Perhaps this is why First Nation immediately caught our attention.
Instead of using and combining the normal elements that we've all heard
three thousand times too many, these three ladies are treading in some rather
unorthodox territory. Actually and in fact, their music is difficult to
pigeonhole and/or describe. The subtle, strange arrangements on First
Nation support the sometimes fragile vocal melodies. A purely artistic
endeavor, these ladies' first full-length is a definite keeper. Strangely
odd and unfamiliar, the album as a whole is completely listenable and thoroughly
creative. Subtle, bizarre creations include "Awakes," "Female
Trance," "Monkey," "Cave Jam," and "Waterfall."
Very different. (Rating: 5++)
Say goodbye
To freedom.
We never had it
Anyway.
We have lost our
Freedom in the name
Of freedom.(Rating: 1)
Lisa Germano - In the Maybe World (CD, Young
God, Progressive pop)
One of our favorite artists of all time, Lisa Germano has yet to
be properly rewarded for exquisite and remarkable music. Germano has been
blowing the minds of a small group of dedicated followers for years now...but
the public at large just doesn't seem to notice her. This is probably because
Lisa's music is far too intelligent and cerebral for most listeners. Her
last album (Lullaby for Liquid Pig) was one of the greatest albums
ever recorded...but for the most part, it fell upon deaf ears. In the
Maybe World is another magnificent collection of songs. The melodies
are personal and the arrangements are purposely intricate. Lisa's voice
is soft, fragile, and incredibly focused. Instead of being a vast departure,
Maybe World is a continuation of ideas from previous albums. Lisa
Germano has refined her music to the point where she has no competitors.
Her sound is completely unique and easily stands out in a world where there
are so many generic carbon copy artists. Who else could sing the line "Go
to hell, f*ck you"...and make it sound like the most beautiful,
soothing lullaby in the world...? Maybe World features some of the
most incredible melodies we have heard from this enchanting lady. Fantastic
compositions include "The Day," "Golden Cities" (our
favorite), "Wire," "Except for the Ghosts," and "After
Monday." Exceptional from start to finish. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
(Rating: 6++)
Goddakk
- Monument to a Ruined Age (CD, Silber,
Electronic/drone/experimental)
Goddakk was formed by Martin Newman (of the band Plumerai).
The band is a solo project in which Newman experiments with sounds and electronics.
The compositions on Monument to a Ruined Age are, for the most part,
experimental electronic drone pieces with the main instrument being a Fender
bass guitar. Although Martin plays bass, guitars, and keyboards, the majority
of the instruments are mutated and drowned in effects to the point that
they are no longer recognizable. The overall sound of this album is spooky
and peculiar...it often sounds like the soundtrack to a really weird underground
film. This is the kind of music that you either love or hate. We've always
been fond of electronic manipulation...so we were naturally drawn to this.
Monument is a strangely inviting spin that creates otherworldly moods
in the mind of the listener. (Rating: 5+)
An apple a day
Makes the doctor
Turn grey.(Rating: 1)
You can ask your parents for help
But your parents won't help you.
You can ask your friends for help
But your friends won't help you.
You can ask your teachers for help
But your teachers won't help you.
You can ask God for help
But God won't help you either.(Rating: 1)
Daniel Johnston - Welcome To My World (CD, High
Wire Music, Pop)
The first greatest hits collection from Daniel Johnston. Actually,
these songs weren't ever real hits in the true sense of the word...except
for those folks who appreciate Johnston's music (the man has always been
far too obscure to be considered a true hit maker). This 21 track CD offers
a nice overview of Daniel's career...and includes many tracks that had never
been available on CD until now. Is Johnston a genius...or just an oddity...?
People may debate the issue for decades to come...so we're not going to
offer a rating here, but instead simply let you know about the availability
of this disc... (Not Rated)
Lady & Bird - Lady & Bird (CD, Yellow Tangerine,
Soft pop)
Soft, soothing, peculiar pop music. Lady & Bird is the duo consisting
of Keren Ann Zeidel and Bardi Johannsson. Together, the two
record soft, soothing, puzzling pop music that ranges from ambient sound
to hazy pop to strangely psychedelic experimentation. Some of the songs
are rather accessible and direct ("Do What I Do" and the cover
of Lou Reed's "Stephanie Says" are good examples)...while
others are slightly far out in subtle ways (the childlike discussions that
take place in "Shepard's Song" and "La Ballade of Lady &
Bird"). Overall, this album succeeds because it creates cool vibes...and
also because Keren and Bardi have come up with a sound that is almost entirely
their own. Ten clever cuts plus a bonus track (an acoustic live performance
of "Do What I Do"). Nifty stuff. (Rating: 5)
Leels
- Fingees Crossed (CD, Cloth
Monkey, Progressive pop)
Leels is a collection of Florida artists from other bands (Home,
Meringue, Dumbwaiters, Pee Shy) who got together to
form this project. Fingees Crossed (no, that's not a typo) is a puzzling
collection of progressive pop tunes. This band sounds something like an
Athens, Georgia-based modern cross between Harper's Bizarre and Thunderclap
Newman. Though the tunes on this album are basically pop in nature,
they are delivered with strangely structured arrangements and vocals that
range from pensive to slightly goofy. Most of the tracks on this album are
purely entertaining...although there are a couple that seem to fall just
a bit short. Top picks: "Finding the Read There," "Fight,"
"H.L. Champs." A good spin. (Rating: 4+++)
Don
Lennon - Routine (CD, Martin Philip
Records, Pop)
When Boston's Umpteens broke up in 1997, frontman Don Lennon
began his solo career. He has been racking up fans and impressing critics
with his albums ever since. Routine is Lennon's fourth album. Don's
tunes sound something like a cross between Ray Davies and Scott
McCaughey. The lyrics are often tongue-in-cheek and the songs seem to
flow by effortlessly. Lennon's understated tunes feature sparse arrangements
and his subtle, low-key vocal style fits his songs perfectly. These songs
might not blow your mind on the first listen...but after a few spins the
subtle substance of the music sets in. Ten nice soft pop tracks here including
"What SNL Stands For," "The Trust Fund," "Last
Comic Standing," and "Junior Year Abroad." (Rating: 4++++)
Lycia
- The Burning Circle and Then Dust (CD, Silber,
Progressive pop/rock)
Lycia is a very peculiar group of musicians. The band's sound is
similar to The Cocteau Twins...but much more dark and spooky. The
band is a pet project of Brian John Mitchell (the mind behind the
Silber label). Mitchell has taken on the task of releasing and reissuing
the band's music in the United States. Originally a double album, The
Burning Circle and Then Dust was shortened to fit on a single CD for
the re-mastered reissue. The album marked a turning point for the band,
as they began to focus their energies on more song-oriented music. This
eighteen track album is a challenging and peculiar spin. Dark, ethereal
tracks include "A Presence in the Woods," "The Return of
Nothing," "Silence and Distance," and "Surrender."
(Rating: 5)
Gunnar
Madsen - Fall of Troy
(CD, G-Spot, Instrumental)
What do you do when you've recorded the soundtrack for an upcoming video
game when the company producing the project disappears...? In order to win
the game, Gunnar Madsen opted to release the soundtrack as his next
album. Many may know Madsen as a former member of The Bobs or his
various film and TV projects. Fall of Troy features epic, classically
influenced instrumentals which sound very much like...the soundtrack to
a game or movie, of course. These thirteen compositions are slick and filled
with rich textures. So even though the game disappeared...the music will
live on. Top picks: "A Thousand Ships," "Behind the Gates,"
"Night Raid," "The Horse: Fall of Troy." (Rating: 5)
Majestic Twelve - Majestic Twelve (Independently released CD-R, Obtuse
pop/rock)
Deceptively packaged in a homemade cover that might lead one to believe
that the music is primitive and unstable, the folks in Wilmington, North
Carolina's Majestic Twelve have created a particularly pleasing and
appealing album. On the basis of their own skill and dynamic surges, these
folks have produced an album that is unusual and ultimately entertaining.
The band's music is characterized by herky jerky rhythms, unusual guitar
riffs, and subtle vocals that--at times--seem almost secondary to the music.
Some folks are certain to be offended by the band's lyrics...but our guess
is that everything here is done tongue-in-cheek. Combining elements from
1980s new wave with the sounds of modern progressive pop, this album is
a fun spin with plenty of tunes that are both listenable and danceable.
A great deal of time and energy went into recording these eleven tracks...and
it shows. A nifty album that doesn't sound like the rest. Top picks: "Welcome
to the City," "Condoleezza, Check My Posse," "Trapped
Under Water," "Everything On TV is a Lie." Cool underground
stuff. (Rating: 5)
Malachi Constant - Pride (CD, Guilt
Ridden Pop / Modern Radio,
Obtuse progressive pop/rock)
If there is one thing we are slowly learning over time, it is that the guys
in Saint Paul, Minnesota's Malachi Constant are virtually impossible
to predict. So...if you want to really enjoy the band's music...each time
they release a batch of recordings, you have to approach the music without
any preconceived notions. Otherwise, you are almost certain to feel lost
and alienated. Pride is a surprising CD in many ways, not the least
of which is the overall sound and feel. More than any other band, these
tracks bear many similarities to The Feelies. More subtle and serene
than before, the band lowers the volume while paying more attention to lyrics
and melodies. The results are peculiar and uniquely satisfying. We're not
sure whether we prefer the assault of the band's earlier sound...or this?
Both are appealing. One thing is certain. Pride is an album that
will take many spins to set in. Confusing tracks include "The Traditions,"
"New York City Is Full of Pussies," "Sex Fantasy," and
"Immortality." Malachi Constant remains one of our favorite obscure
delights... (Rating: 5++)
Monster Magnet - Spine of God (German import CD, SPV
USA, Rock)
Monster Magnet may not be this year's hippest band anymore...but
in our minds, they will always be hip. Thankfully, the folks at SPV
have made the wise move to reissue Spine of God (one of the band's
finest albums). The band's thick, masculine rock tunes sound as great as
they ever did. The playing is top notch from start to finish and the vocals
are absolutely thrilling. Most rock fans are already very familiar with
this album...and with tracks like "Pill Shovel," "Nod Scene,"
and "Snake Dance"...it's no wonder. What fans will want
to note about this reissue is that it contains a fantastic bonus track...a
demo recording of "Ozium" which is completely different from the
album version. If you've heard this album before, you'll want this disc
for the bonus track. If you never heard Spine of God well then...this
is probably the best time to jump on the Monster Magnet bandwagon... (Rating:
5+++)
Old Haunts - Fuel On Fire (CD, Kill
Rock Stars, Rock)
With so many bands playing so many different styles of rock music, it is
indeed refreshing on those rare occasions when we can label a band as simply
"rock" (this being one of those cases). The guys in Old
Haunts impressed a lot of folks with their last album (Fallow Field).
On this, the follow-up, the band returns with more surefire rockers played
with verve and gusto. Old Haunts tunes sound something like a cross between
modern garage rock and 1970s punk and new wave. The band's tunes are mainly
centered around interesting guitars, and vocalist Craig Extine has
a superbly effective yelpy way of singing (reminiscent of Tom Verlaine)
that really gives the band a personality. As was the case with the last
album, songs are the real meaty treat. Cool, clever rockers include "Civil
Savage," "Paradise," "Into a New Room," and "Salvage
Purity." (Rating: 5++)
Paper
Chase - Now You Are One of Us (CD, Kill Rock Stars, Progressive
pop/rock)
Imaginative progressive pop/rock from the Dallas-based band Paper Chase.
With cover art featuring a pantless man who has just (presumably) hung himself,
Now You Are One of Us is a curious album indeed. This band's music
sounds something like a modern progressive obtuse version of Devo
(the vocals are particularly similar at times). Unlike most modern albums,
this l'il sucker has real substance. Instead of copying and aping other
bands, these fellows seem squarely focused on creating their own unique
sound and image. This unpredictable album combines elements from a variety
of eras and sources...and spews them at the listener with surprising poise
and precision. Paper Chase is by no means a mere noise band. These compositions
are clever, articulate, and unusual. Add to this the fact that the players
are exceptionally proficient and fluid on their instruments...and you have
an album that will surely stand the test of time. Puzzling tracks include
"We Know Where You Sleep," "The Most Important Part of Your
Body," and "The House is Alive and the House is Hungry."
Uniquely cool. (Rating: 5+)
They had a tiny bird
But were never taught
How to raise it.Parrots make
Rotten parents.
All parrots will be
Rotting parents.(Rating: 1)
Persephones Bees - Notes From the Underworld (CD, Columbia,
Pop)
Fronted by the charismatic vocal talents of Russia's Angelina Moysov,
the folks in Persephones Bees provide pure melodic pop for positive
people. The band's first major label release, Notes From the Underworld
is a rewarding and instantly infectious album. Sounding something like a
more accessible version of Sweden's Komeda, these four folks aren't
afraid to let their cute tendencies shine through. The songs on this album
are light, fresh, and easy...which is a rather refreshing change from some
of the more abrasive and overly inventive artists on the planet. But fear
not, these tunes don't sound anything like generic hits. There is enough
cool creativity going on here to keep things from sounding samey or stagnant.
Excellent melodies supported by just the right amount of polish. Pure feelgood
tracks include "Way to Your Heart," "City of Love,"
"On the Earth," and "Queen's Night Out." (Rating: 5+)
Ride your Phony Pony
'Til there's nothing left to do.
Ride your Phony Pony
'Til you're all dried up and
Blue.(Rating: 1)
Your job is not real.
Your family is not real.
Your thoughts are not real.
Everything in your world is
Fake.(Rating: 1)
Go back to
Wherever it is
That you came
From.(Rating: 1)
The
Robot Ate Me - Good World (CD, 5RC, Progressive pop
The Robot Ate Me is one of the most unpredictable and obtuse underground
bands around. After releasing what was undoubtedly the band's most accessible
album in 2005 (Carousel Waltz), now comes the baffling and almost
completely uncommercial Good World. Our first reaction after hearing
this CD was that Ryland Bouchard has been listening to a lot of Robert
Wyatt lately...or at least it seems that way. Good World
is extremely reminiscent of some of Wyatt's early recorded work. Clocking
in at just under 23 minutes, the album features 17 tiny tracks of sparse
artsy pop. Bouchard has really taken a chance with this album. After altering
his sound on the last album to attract more listeners, many folks probably
won't be too pleased with this album. An almost purely artistic endeavor,
Bouchard takes off on some rather bizarre audio paths here. Some of them
work, some are just...rather confusing. In the end, however, this is yet
another rewarding collection of inventive material. Who knows what
will come next...? (Rating: 5+)
Scott
Solter - One River (CD, Tell-All, Ambient/electronic)
Scott Solter is probably best known as a producer and recording engineer.
He has worked with a variety of artists including John Vanderslice,
Mountain Goats, Spoon, and William Lazarus. One
River is Scott's second solo album. It features seven slow, sparse,
methodical compositions that are extraordinarily understated and very reminiscent
of Brian Eno's early ambient recordings. These pieces are slow and
obtuse...meant to create moods and environments. Most folks either love
this kind of stuff or hate it. In this little office suite, anything that
calms us down...gets an easy thumbs up. (Rating: 4++++)
Ultra Electro - David Waxman Presents Ultra Electro (Double CD, Ultrarecords, Various artists/electronic/dance)
The world of electronic dance music can be confusing and overwhelming. There
are so many artists and so many different labels that it can, at times,
become a swirling blur of excess. Fortunately for many of us, DJ David
Waxman has a great knack for picking out the best of the best...in essence,
doing the leg work for us so that all we have to do is turn up the volume
and dance, dance, DANCE. This double CD set follows Waxman's previous collections
that include Ultra Dance, Ultra Trance, and Ultra Chilled.
Ultra Electro features 24 tracks by some of the best of the best...including
Gorillaz, New Order, Moby, Daisy Daisy, Digitalism,
and Supermode (some tracks are remixes, others are the original recordings).
If you're a lazy listener and you just wanna groove out to some trippy electronic
dance music, this compilation is sure to fit you like a glove. Packaged
in a stunning lime green package. Totally groovy. (Rating: 5)
Unwed
Sailor - Circles (CD, Burnt
Toast Vinyl, Ambient/instrumental/experimental)
Absolutely beautiful progressive artsy music. This band blew a lot of folks
away with their concept album entitled The Marionette and the Music Box.
This CD will undoubtedly have the same effect on listeners. Moody, cerebral,
peculiar, and unorthodox, the tunes on Circles are wonderfully creative
compositions involving ambient sounds and progressive experimentation. Unwed
Sailor is driven by the songwriting skills of Johnathon Ford,
who began the band in Seattle in 1998. Since that time his band has changed
and evolved and has also relocated from one city to another...all the while
continuing to compose and create. Joining Johnathon on this album are Daniel
Burton, Phillip Blackwell, and Matt Griffin. These fellows
create music that sounds something like a modern cross between Brian
Eno and Tangerine Dream. These two lengthy pieces are dreamy,
hypnotic, exquisite, and beautiful. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Rhonda Vincent -
All American Bluegrass Girl (CD, Rounder,
Bluegrass/country/pop)
Rhonda Vincent is probably the most important new female talent to
emerge in bluegrass in the twenty-first century. Far from being another
generic star created by marketers, Vincent has the looks, personality, and
voice...that people want. All American Bluegrass Girl will no
doubt be another hugely successful album for Rhonda. Featuring twelve tracks,
the album presents honest, soulful, precisely-arranged bluegrass music that
should appeal to almost everyone. Vincent has the same appeal as Alison
Krauss. Both ladies are blessed with the purest of the pure in terms
of vocals. Brimming over the edges with sincerity and great songs, Bluegrass
Girl can only help to cement Vincent's place in the world of commercial
music. Top picks: "Forever Ain't That Long Anymore," "Rhythm
of the Wheels," "Don't Act," "Precious Jewel."
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
The
Wedding Present - Search
For Paradise: Singles 2004-5 (CD + DVD, Manifesto,
Pop)
If you're like us...and you just can't get enough of a good thing...you'll
most certainly already be seeking out a copy of this CD/DVD set (if you
don't have it already). As the guiding force behind The Wedding Present
and Cinerama, Britain's David Gedge and his friends have been
making quality music for quite some time now. And the amazing part is...the
songs never sound tired, dated, or pretentious. This beautifully
packaged double disc set includes a CD containing 14 tracks (11 of which
were previously unreleased in North America) and a DVD containing promotional
videos. As is the case with virtually all of Gedge's projects, there isn't
a bad cut on this album. The tunes are sincere, memorable, and stick in
the mind like glue. In our opinion, David and his bands have never received
the widespread recognition they deserve. Perhaps this set will turn on a
few more thousand folks to the pure and simple fact that The Wedding Present
is still alive and more vital than ever before. Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Yonder Mountain String Band - Yonder Mountain String Band (CD, Vanguard,
Bluegrass/pop)
The fourth studio album from Yonder Mountain String Band, as well
as their debut for the Vanguard label. The band's music is becoming more
mainstream. This self-titled album is the first to incorporate drums into
the mix. The band consists of Adam Aijala (lead guitar, vocals),
Jeff Austin (mandolin, vocals), Dave Johnston (banjo, vocals),
and Ben Kaufman (bass, vocals). These four fellows write and record
laidback folky bluegrass pop that features strong melodies and well-crafted
lyrics. The music has broad appeal and could easily be appreciated by listeners
of all ages. Radio-friendly tracks include "Sidewalk Stars," "East
Nashville Easter," "Night Out," and "Wind's On Fire."
Nice and smooth. (Rating: 4++++)
Ahab Rex - The queen of softcore
Anushka pop - Akathena
Bank Robbers - Tomorrow belongs to me
Spencer Bates - Goodnight rosebud
Bernard - A view beyond the cave
Bi-Level - The songbird
Black Moth - Super rainbow
Bleachers - Suspicion
Books About UFOs - Let the bridges ignite
Cave Deaths - Glacier on fire
Chambermaids - Chambermaids
Chrome Pistola - Information war
Cinematics - Break / Alright
Conner - Hello graphic missile
Ramona Cordova - The boy who floated freely
Cougars - Pillow talk
Crucified Barbara - In distortion we trust
Darling New Neighbors - Everyday is a saturday night
Defanation League - The anatomy of grip-top
Disco Biscuits - The wind at four to fly
Downers - Shake the dead and let th downers die...
Earlymay - Little answers
Terry Eason - The aching of the household fly
Emulsion - Blue sky objective
Enablers - Output negative space
Fabulous Rudies - Fabulous Rudies
Final Start - Final Start
Futureheads - News and tributes
Getaway Car - Last charge of the light horse
Gillis - If it wasn't for gravity
Halifax - The inevitability of a strange world
William C. Harrington - Urban electronic music
Hawk - Tied with tiny strings
Jai Henry - Silence kills tusk wounds
I Farm - IV
Languis - Other desert cities
Julia Lau - In the wildflowers and weeds
Little Ones - Sing song
Lonely China Day - Lonely China Day
Lowcloudcover - Separation anxiety
Mad Dukes - Mad Dukes sing and play for you
Dan Melchior - Fire breathing clones on cellular phones
MGR - Nova lux
Michael Columbia - Stay hard
Paul Minor - Shadow figure
Moccasin - Last leaf
Modern Machines & If I Had a Hifi - Hot nuggets
Monster Magnet - 25 tab
Ken Will Morton - King of coming around
Mountain Con - Sancho panza
Roisin Murphy - Ruby blue
Neverwonder - Neverwonder
Wally Nichols - Sharpie
Obsessed - Lunar womb
Of Montreal - The early four track recordings
Of Montreal - The bedside drama a petite tragedy
Of Montreal - The bird who continues to eat the rabbit's flower
Marykate O'Neil - 1-800-bankrupt
Paik - Monste of the absolute
Danny Pound - Surer days
Proudflesh - Proudflesh
Alec K. Redfearn and the Eyesores - The smother party
Rhino Bucket - And then it got ugly
Sam Roberts - Chemical city
Nick Robin - Back from the dead
Brisa Roche - The chase
S-1 Committee - REF.#13.841
Rachel Sage - The blistering sun
Michael John Serpe - Distilled
Shapes and Sizes - Shapes and Sizes
Shimmerplanet - For the one who kills tomorrow
Shocker - Up your ass tray-the full length
Lane Steinberg - The return of Noel Coward's ghost
Strip Club - Cold comfort
Stutter - Stutter
Submarines - Submarines
Michael Talbott and the Wolfkings - Freeze-die-come to life
Tempemonon - Bushwacked
Thee Moths - Nature
This Song Is A Mess But So Am I - Marble mouth
TJO - A raveling
The Trust - The Trust
Various artists - Athfest 10: Athens music & arts festival June 21-25,
2006
Various artists - Kay Dee records compilation vol. 1
Various artists - The funhouse comp thing
Vena Amori - The seduction of an american housewife
Vibration - Amarilla
Vibrolas - From parts unknown
Peter Walker - Young gravity
Walking Hellos - Walking Hellos
Joe Wilson - A day in my shoes
Wolfmother - Wolfmother
Yayhoos - Put the hammer down
Stephen Yerkey - Meta neo nature boy
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