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March 2007 Reviews by
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March 2007 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= UNBELIEVABLY INCREDIBLE
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
A
Cat Called Cricket - Here Comes Another
Melody (CD, Beechfields,
Pop)
Fresh, genuine, and real. Baltimore, Maryland's A Cat Called Cricket
is a band that creates pop music that is unique and fulfilling. The folks
in this band (two guys and two girls) write and record soft, melodic pop
featuring a heavy dose of cellos. The band is driven by the songwriting
skills of Alex Champagne, but the music is arranged and performed
by the entire band. Champagne's voice and melodies recall Emitt Rhodes
at times. His vocals are pure and sincere...and the overall sound of the
band is inspired and rather organic. If you're looking for the loudest and
weirdest band of the month, you probably won't be too impressed with this
album. But if, however, you are seeking music that makes a real impression
and comes straight from the heart...Here Comes Another Melody might
just be your favorite new disc. Nifty keepers include "Seasons Never
Change," "Nothing," "Ripping Up Our Roots" (our
favorite), and "Everything." Really nice. (Rating: 5)
Every time a
Child is born
Angels in the sky
Launch hand grenades
At us.(Rating: 1)
No one is
Mentally retarded
Anymore.
Now they are
Autistic.(Rating: 1)
Autovein
- Bullets and Bruises (CD, Outlook
Music, Rock)
If you want to get in on a big band before they get big...get hold of a
copy of Autovein's Bullets and Bruises. Our guess is that--judging
by the sound of these tunes--this band is going to be hugely successful.
Produced by GGGarth Richardson, the album features big thick production
values...and perfectly captures this band's hard rock sound. So many modern
rock bands sound like carbon copies of one another. Perhaps this is why
the guys in Autovein are so refreshing. Instead of rehashing the same old
twenty-first century approach to rock (i.e., turn all the way up and play
mindless dribble into oblivion), the fellows in this band have the good
sense to present a surprising amount of variety in their tunes. Sure, the
band rocks hard...but they add enough softer moments and interesting intermissions
that you don't get tired of their sound. Kickass rockers include "Bullet
Is An Angel," "Quitter," "Save Me," "Useless,"
and "Head High." Loud, harsh, and catchy. (Rating: 4++++)
Avey Tare - Pullhair Rubeye (CD, Paw
Tracks, Experimental)
This is a truly odd, obscure, and peculiar CD...so if you're searching
for catchy, easy pop tunes...you certainly won't find them here.
Avey Tare is the duo of Dave Portner and Kria Brekkan.
The two recorded Pullhair Rubeye in their practice space in Brooklyn.
The result...is a collection of compositions that sound something like the
animal rustlings of the forest played backwards. Peculiar and abstract,
many will assume that these pieces are nothing more than spontaneous accidents.
With a bit of concentration, however, listeners may very well find more
than first meets the ears on this album. Portner and Brekkan aren't trying
to reach a wide audience or even please underground fans. This is a pure
artistic effort in which these individuals are following their creative
urges. We rarely hear CDs with so little regard for commercial potential.
This is a weird spin to say the least. This album features dreamy
hypnotic pieces that are bound to simultaneously confuse and calm the listener...
(Rating: 4++++++++++++++)
Kathie
Baillee - Love's Funny That Way (CD,
Aspirion, Country/pop)
Nice, smooth modern country pop that sounds something like a cross between
Shania Twain and Bonnie Raitt. Baillee is no newcomer to the
world of country music. She has been a background singer for a variety of
artists including Dan Seals, Lynn Anderson, and Randy Travis
and was previously the lead vocalist in the band Baillie and the Boys.
Love's Funny That Way is, however, her first solo album. While mostly
a collection of cover tunes, Baillee co-wrote three of these songs...thus
adding her own personal touch. These tracks are slick, melodic, and accessible...and
should appeal to a wide cross section of country music fans. Baillee has
obviously paid her dues...and this album surely paves the way for what will
be a solid and rewarding solo career. Top picks: "Love's Funny That
Way," "Never Knew Lonely" (a duet with Vince Gill),
"Anchor Me," "Come to Me." (Rating: 4++++)
Lou Barlow - Mirror the Eye (CD EP, Acuarela,
Progressive pop)
This EP features the merging of one of our top favorite artists (Lou
Barlow) with one of our top favorite labels (Acuarela). Barlow is known
by many for his work with the bands Dinosaur Jr, Sebadoh,
The New Folk Implosion, Sentridoh, and Lou's Wasted Pieces.
Mirror the Eye is the second disc to be released under Lou's own
name (following the 2005 release of his first solo outing Emoh).
This EP features five tracks: "Yawning Blue Messiah," "Faith
Defies the Night," "You're a Goat," "My Surrender,"
and "Mirror the Eye." We have been impressed by everything that
we have heard from Mr. Barlow thus far...and Mirror the Eye is no
exception to the rule. Although he has been recording for quite some time
now, Lou's music continues to be both memorable and inspired. Highly recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)
When I was bittle
I wanted to be lig.
Now that I am lig
I want to be
Bittle.(Rating: 1)
The
Blow - Poor Aim: Love Songs (CD, K, Pop)
This is a reissue of a limited edition EP from 2004 (only 1,000 were originally
pressed) that not only features the original seven tracks but also includes
seven remixes by fans and friends of the band. This reissue was probably
prompted by the band's full-length 2006 release Paper Television.
We never heard the original Poor Aim EP...so all of this music is
brand new to our ears. The Blow is Jona Bechtolt and Khaela
Maricich...two individuals whose original objective was to create music
that was both commercial and personally rewarding. This band's music might
be a straight shot at pop were it not for the odd instrumentation and bizarre
electronic arrangements. What they seem to be doing here is creating basic
pop using unconventional sounds and methods. The idea works surprisingly
well. Not only are the tunes on this CD accessible and appealing...but they
are also artistically credible compositions. Smooth, hummable, and danceable
tracks include "Hey Boy," "Knowing the Things That I Know,"
and "The Love That I Crave" (our favorite). Delightful and just
slightly sinister. (Rating: 5)
CONDOLEEZZA RICE WORSHIPS THE DEVIL
When she's hidden away
In her own safe and private space
Condoleezza Rice
Worships the goddamn
Devil
And masturbates.(Rating: 1)
Dateline: To Catch A Predator (Pathetic television show crap)
As an explanatory note for folks outside the U.S.A., Dateline is
an American news (term used loosely) program that has recently begun a special
series entitled To Catch A Predator. The idea is simple...a "decoy"
child chats with a predator on the Internet and then tricks them into coming
to a house for a meeting...at which time the predator is secretly filmed
for inclusion in the television show. Asshole host Chris Hansen (what
a cheeseball) scolds the person mercilessly like a nigger mammy pretending
to be the Morality Police...at which time the predator leaves the home only
to be promptly arrested by the police. There are so many things wrong with
this program...where do we begin...? First, does the term "entrapment"
come to mind...? What are they going to do next...lay out lines of cocaine
in public places and then arrest people who come up to take a snort?
Molesting children is wrong, we all know that...but everyone obsesses
about the goddamn subject so much now that all it does is create more
and more predators. Take this show for example. You don't think they
are merely exposing the bad guys in order to do the right thing, do you...?
Of course not. The show is all about RATINGS. Ratings are so important,
in fact...that they don't mind including lengthy detailed excerpts from
each predator's chat...much of which is so filthy and explicit that it
actually is pornography. You can bet that this draws in plenty
of viewers (because that's all that matters). Of course, the program
gives shallow idiots the false impression that it is helping society by
shining the spotlight on those terrible sinners who deserve to be publicly
humiliated and sent to jail. But in actuality the program is promoting
the idea of having sex with children. Something else that troubles us
is the fact that the child decoy is often suggestive and flirts with the
predator in order to trick them into chatting dirty and coming over for
a meeting. How about if we have a decoy in chat rooms offer to give away
money to people...and then when they show up to take the money we scold
them, film them, and throw them in jail. There is another serious problem
with the decoys the program uses...they are not minors. Therefore,
if someone shows up to have sex with the decoy...they are not technically
breaking the law because the person is not a minor in the first place
(!). Dateline represents what is wrong in America today...people
are way too focused on retribution. Instead of trying to help people with
their obsessive problems in reasonable, rational ways...everyone just wants
to see those horrible villains get their just rewards. Sad, very sad. It's
just another example of how screwed up and pathetic our society is. Instead
of trying to help people who obviously need help...we spank them as hard
as we can and sometimes even kill them...for the plain and
simple fact that we like to see people get punished. (Rating: 1)
Ditchflowers - Carried Away (CD, Sunshine
Drenchy, Pop)
For an unknown band, the folks in Largo, Florida's Ditchflowers have
a remarkably slick, professional, and commercial sound. You won't find any
noisy experiments here or any artists indulging in mindless creativity.
Carried Away is an exercise in pure accessible pop. That might be
a bad thing...were it not for the effective songwriting skills of bandleader
Ed Woltil. Ed's style reminds us of a great many artists, but immediate
similarities to Neil Innes and Neil Finn come to mind first.
What may scare some underground fans away from this CD is the fact that
the overall sound is very similar to albums released by major labels...lots
of overdubs, precise and articulate mixes, etc. True, this is in many ways
a bit more slick than necessary, but songs are what count...and songs
are what make Ditchflowers stand out from the pack. Super catchy mid-tempo
upbeat tracks include "My Next Life," "All the Time in the
World," "New Skin" (our favorite), and "Spend My Life."
Truly memorable stuff. (Rating: 5)
Dreadful Yawns - Early (CD, Exit
Stencil Recordings, Soft pop)
This band has been through plenty of changes in the past few years. These
changes have involved shifting from one label to another and a revolving
band line-up. Rather than give up or burn out, bandleader Ben Gmetro
seems determined to stay focused and head toward the future. And that's
a good thing because...Early is a resounding success. Despite some
setbacks during the recording of the album, Gmetro has managed to come up
with a cool and impressively consisting sounding album. These compositions
are extremely smooth and calming. The arrangements are mostly sparse and
subtle...and the vocals warm and absorbing. And while the tunes are definitely
soft and mellow...the music still manages to have amazing power as a result
of the wonderfully exacting melodies. The only thing that may be a problem
for some folks is the cover...the super soft almost illegible text definitely
grates on the nerves (!). That being a minor point, of course...Early
is a wonderfully entertaining album. Our favorite tracks include "You've
Been Recorded," "Candles" (our favorite), "We Go Up,"
and "End of Summer." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Everthus
The Deadbeats - Addicts Stuck in Traffic
(CD, Standard Recording Company,
Progressive pop/rock)
Oddball progressive pop/rock that goes all over the place. As is the case
with most underground bands, all of the folks in Everthus the Deadbeats
have other jobs. It could be the variety in each of their separate lives
that gives their music such a far reaching array of influences. Addicts
Stuck in Traffic is a strange spin. Instead of using traditional song
structures, the members of this band have a tendency to dive unflinchingly
into the chaotic ocean waters. At times the band's music is rather smooth
and soothing...while at other times things get downright strange. Although
this band doesn't sound too much like anyone else, we can hear possible
influences from bands like Pere Ubu, early Gang of Four, and
even Hawkwind at times. This is a short CD clocking in at just over
28 minutes. Key tracks include "Blackout," "She," and
"Some Terrys." Quite odd at times. (Rating: 4++++)
Golden
Bear - To the Farthest Star (CD, C-Side, Pop)
The folks in Golden Bear impressed quite a few people with their
2006 debut album. Instead of resting on their laurels, the band went to
work almost immediately on this, their sophomore release. This band's tunes
recall a variety of artists including but not limited to early Kinks,
Sneakers, Claudia Malibu, and Let's Active. While the
band's alternative guitar pop will no doubt appeal to underground pop fans,
the tunes are probably a bit too odd and peculiar for the average listener.
And that is a plus for the band, or course, because too many modern pop
bands tend to play it way too safe most of the time. Chief singer/songwriter
Chris Gregory has a nice warm voice that really makes these tunes
come to life. Folks who loved the band's debut will no doubt have the same
reaction to this album. To the Farthest Star is yet another shot
in the right direction. Kickass pop tracks include "Galaxy Queen,"
"Darkness Sets In," "Stars and Women," and "New
Day." (Rating: 5+)
Ed
Gray - The Late Gray Ed Great (CD, Hot
Potato, Folk/pop)
At a point in time when there are so many pretentious and phony singer/songwriters
on the planet...the music of Ed Gray comes across as a cool and sincere
blast of fresh air. Based in Iowa City, Iowa, Mr. Gray obviously writes
and records first and foremost as an emotional outlet. His songs are direct
and personal...notably void of the wealth of overdubs and effects that normally
trash the sound of many modern artists' work. Ed's music incorporates elements
of folk, Americana, and soft pop. The vocals and instruments are particularly
appealing because of the slight flaws that seem to have been purposely left
in these tracks...thereby giving the album an impressively warm and inviting
sound. In a world where most everything seems to fit neatly into categories...this
CD stands out because of the intent behind the music. Top picks:
"Baby Bird," "You Have Me at a Disadvantage, Sir," "The
Brambling Broad Side." (Rating: 5)
Kemp
Harris - Edenton (Independently released
CD, Bluesy pop)
Kemp Harris is the real thing. Spin this disc a time or two...and
you'll be a believer too. Harris titled this album after his home
town of Edenton, North Carolina. He pours his heart and soul into his music...and
the result is some surprisingly realistic and mature bluesy pop tunes with
a difference. The album features original tracks and cover tunes...with
the most obvious constant being Kemp's deep and seductive voice. Harris
has the potential to catch on in a big way in the years ahead. His
music combines just the right amount of accessible elements with his own
original personality. Smooth, slick, and soulful...Edenton proves
that Kemp is surely on the road to somewhere. Killer cuts include "Sometimes,"
"Tryin Times," "Mother Earth," and "Edenton."
(Rating: 5)
Hotpipes - Hotpipes (Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
On the first spin we couldn't decide what to make of Nashville's Hotpipes.
But by the fourth of fifth go-round...we were hooked. These guys are really
good. The band's music occasionally reminds us of The Chainsaw Kittens,
early David Bowie, and The Holy Ghost. But most of the time
Hotpipes sound just like...Hotpipes. This independently released CD features
eleven smart, intricate, puzzling pop/rock tunes. This is the band's second
full-length disc...and it's a keeper. The playing is vibrant and focused...and
the arrangements fit the songs perfectly. Add in some particularly flavorful
vocals...and you've got a band with a unique approach to modern pop/rock.
There ain't a bad seed on this sucker, but our own particular favorites
include "If..Don't..," "Women of the World Agree," "So
Bored," and "Love in 3's." Excellent sound quality throughout.
Neat stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Julias Airwave - The City The Forest (CD, Sickroom,
Progressive pop)
Intriguing progressive pop. Julias Airwave consists of songwriter
Rick Colado and his bandmates Chris Gibson, Mark Hubbard,
and Jeff Mehlhoff. Colado's tunes tread that fine line that exists
between soft accessible pop and progressive improvisation. The City The
Forest is the band's second full length, following 2004's Dragons
Are the New Pink. What sets this band apart from others first and foremost
is the classically tinged piano. The tunes on this album have a nice, sweeping,
flowing quality that is dreamy and soothing. In many cases such an approach
might be obnoxious and insincere...but on this album these guys manage to
retain their musical integrity from start to finish because the songs seems
to come straight from the heart. The folks at Sickroom seem to be extending
their boundaries in terms of the types and styles of music they are supporting.
And, as such, they are finding more and more oddly appealing gems hidden
in the haystacks. This is most certainly one of them. Nifty soft pop tracks
include "In The City," "Nanner1," "Broken Bells,"
"Shipwreck," and "Every Little Bit Helps." (Rating:
5+)
Rose Kemp - A Hand Full of Hurricanes (CD, One
Little Indian, Pop)
Like some other reviewers, our first reaction to Britain's Rose Kemp
was that she sounds very much like PJ Harvey. Considering the fact
that we were big fans of Harvey's early work but very unimpressed with her
later recordings, it is fortunate indeed that Ms. Kemp's music incorporates
some of the best elements that made PJ's early music so appealing. It is
certainly worth noting that Rose is the daughter of Maddy Prior and
Rick Kemp (of the eternal babysue favorite Steeleye Span).
So...some might be thinking..."Why isn't Ms. Kemp continuing in the
grand tradition of her parents?" Fortunately for Kemp and her parents
and her listeners...she apparently isn't trying to make music to
suit other people. Instead, she is writing and recording music that comes
from her soul. And it just so happens...that her internal instincts cause
her to create slightly bluesy and occasionally rather abrasive underground
rock. What is perhaps most intriguing about Rose's music is the fact that
musical elements from her parents do occasionally bleed into the landscape
(check out some of the softer moments and, in particular, the harmonies
in "Tiny Flower"). Unlike most celebrity children, if Rose ends
up being a big success...it won't be because of her famous parents. It will
be, instead, because she is creating seriously substantial music on her
own. Eleven nifty tracks here, including "Little One," "Morning
Music," "Metal Bird," and "Sister Sleep." Great
stuff... (Rating: 5+)
LA
JR - Dos Casas (CD, Acuarela,
Progressive)
Previously known as JR, the band now known as LA JR consists
of Francisco Deborja, Frank Rudow, and Rafael Martinez
del Pozo. Dos Casas is a peculiar album featuring obscure, subtle
progressive compositions that are difficult to describe. These three fellows
write and record music that is dreamy and slightly psychedelic. Some of
these tracks sound almost normal...while others are strangely bizarre, jazz-like,
and haunting. One thing is certain. When spinning Dos Casas you can
never guess exactly what will come next. In some ways the tracks
on this album recall some of the more subdued progressive artists from the
1970s...while in other ways the overall sound is very current. Perplexing
and unpredictable...LA JR is a band on its own obtuse musical mission. Our
favorite cuts are "Perro," "Un Lado Util," "Wan
Yo," and "Arrebato." Exotic and absorbing. (Rating: 5+)
Les
Sans Culottes - Le Weekender (CD, Vibratone, Pop)
This band is best known for the fact that they are an American band that
sings in French. Because of their humorous approach to music, many may mistake
Les Sans Culottes as a joke band or a novelty act. But nothing could
be further from the truth. Actually and in fact, listening to the band's
music...they sound very much like an authentic modern French pop band. And
the best part...is that there is meat beneath the surface. Le
Weekender presents more of the upbeat, catchy pop tunes that the band
is known for. After two or three songs spin past, you begin to realize that
it doesn't really matter what language you're using...as long as
the intent is right and the music is good. We've been impressed with
everything we have yet to hear from these folks...and Le Weekender
is yet another bull's eye to add to the list. Thirteen show stoppers including
"Merci Beaucoup," "Les Enfants Terribles," and "Medications
Dans Une Crise." Simultaneously funny and genuinely entertaining. (Rating:
5+)
Let's
Go Sailing - The Chaos In Order (Independently
released CD, Pop)
There seems to be a growing number of underground female progressive popsters
popping up all over the globe lately. This could represent a growing tendency
for women to prove themselves artistically. Long gone are the days when
all women in music were either country crooners or cutesy popsters. Let's
Go Sailing is an appropriate band name for this project. The light,
airy tracks on The Chaos In Order flow by effortlessly like waves.
The band is driven by the songwriting talents of Shana Levy, a young
lady with a remarkable gift for matching memorable melodies with intriguing
lyrics. What strikes us most about these tunes is how personal and sincere
they sound. Rather than being an album created to make money, this CD was
obviously a vehicle for Levy to convey her feelings and emotions to her
listeners. Genuinely friendly tracks include "Sideways," "All
I Want From You is Love," "We Get Along," and "Come
Home Safely." Good solid stuff. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Luxury
Liners - Nonetheless (CD, Litterbug, Pop)
Our first reaction to Nonetheless was that it sounded way, way, way,
way, WAY too much like The Lemonheads. And indeed it does.
So much so, in fact, that if you didn't know who it was you might actually
mistake this band for The Lemonheads. But after spinning the CD a
couple of times we came to the conclusion that...since Evan Dando
isn't releasing so much music these days...we can certainly appreciate the
sound of Luxury Liners. This Nashville-based trio writes and records remarkably
memorable guitar pop that is an almost perfect cross between the previously
mentioned band and early Elvis Costello. The tunes are immediately
catchy and brimming over the edges with mind-sticking hooks. They may not
be the most original sounding band in the world...but their music is certainly
warm, inviting, and totally entertaining. Top picks: "Circles,"
"Fallen Star," "Crash and Burn," "The Cards You
Dealt Me." (Rating: 4++++)
Milenasong - Seven Sisters (CD, Monika
Enterprise, Obtuse pop)
There seems to be an intriguing new undercurrent of female recording artists
emerging in the twenty-first century who are pushing the boundaries of what
home taping artists are capable of producing. Sweden's Cake On Cake
is a good example of this new hotbed of talent. The young lady who calls
herself Milenasong creates music that is slightly similar to Cake
On Cake...except it is more moody and obtuse. She began recording on her
four track recorder several years ago and distributed her music to the world
through a series of limited edition CDs. Word-of-mouth eventually caused
her to be picked up by Berlin's Monika Enterprise...who have now released
her first proper studio album. Seven Sisters is a peculiar collection
of tunes...soft in nature, yet thought-provoking and mature. Far from a
commercial endeavor, this album features songs that are full of pure artistic
expression. The more we hear this...the better it sounds. Classy
tracks include "Sara," "Thirty," "Love Feel You
Do," and "All This Beautiful Light." Intriguing. (Rating:
5+)
MONEY BRINGS OUT THE SHIT IN PEOPLE
Money should be
Packaged, marketed,
And sold as a
Laxative.(Rating: 1)
Of
God and Science - Of God and Science
(CD, Detach, Pop)
Thank God there are still underground pop bands around that rely on real
drums and real guitars. When the introductory throbbing beat
to the opening track began, we had a feeling we were going to be very impressed
with this band's music. The fellows in Of God and Science are based
in Albuquerque, New Mexico where they also help manage and run the Detach
Records label. The band's tunes are guitar oriented underground pop with
unusual shifting melodies and moody arrangements. A word of warning. This
band's songs will not clobber you over the head the first time you hear
them. Instead of instantly catchy feelgood pop, these fellows write unpredictable
mature guitar pop that is difficult to describe and difficult to compare
to other bands. The subtle beauty of the band's melodies will surely grow
on you over time. Excellent dreamy vocals merge with articulately crafted
guitars to create a rather intoxicating sound indeed. This 40 minute album
features eight killer tracks including "5'7"," "A Lesson
In Decay," "Into the Light," and "Drift Alone."
Great stuff we will be spinning again and again and again. Recommended.
(Rating: 5++)
All old men
Look just like
Old women.(Rating: 1)
The One AM Radio - This Too Will Pass (CD, Dangerbird,
Soft pop)
Soft, mature, moody progressive pop. This release seems to be somewhat of
a departure for the Dangerbird label. Rather than noisy obtuse rock, The
One AM Radio presents dreamy and articulate pop tracks with a heavy
emphasis on production and arrangements. The band is the mostly one man
project created by Hrishikesh Hirway...a young man who obviously
knows the meaning and value of restraint. While the tracks on This Too
Will Pass most definitely have a twenty-first century sound, many of
the melodies harken back to classic pop from the past three decades. Hirway's
vocals are brilliantly soft and subdued...at times sounding ever-so-slightly
like Brian Eno. While Hrishikesh plays most of the instruments, strings
and horns provided by guests are notable in that they add just the right
amount of extra texture to the music. This album might not grab you by the
throat on the first listen...but repeated doses will no doubt have you coming
back for more. Nifty, memorable cuts include "The Harvest," "Lest
I Forget," "Coming Back," and "Where I'm Headed"
(our favorite). Great stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Yoko Ono - Yes, I'm a Witch (CD, Astralwerks,
Pop)
We've said it before and we'll say it again. When she is at her peak, Yoko
Ono is ten times more creative than any of The Beatles ever
were. And that is a fact that, over time, more and more people are beginning
to accept. Yes, I'm a Witch sheds light on the fact that more and
more artists are finally beginning to take Yoko's music seriously...and
its about time. Yes, I'm a Witch is a tribute to Yoko...but it is
also much more than that. Rather than being a mere collection of tracks
recorded by other artists, the album features a strange and impressive array
of artists providing the music...while Yoko herself handles the vocals.
What is surprising is how well this idea works. Rather than being a mere
rehashing of old material, this album breathes new life into Yoko's tunes...bringing
many of them into the world of modern twenty-first century pop. Participating
artists include Peaches, Porcupine Tree, Apples In Stereo,
Flaming Lips, and Craig Armstrong...and that's just the beginning.
This seventeen (!) track album is a truly wild ride. Surprisingly, many
of these recordings are as good (sometimes even better) than the original
recordings (and that is saying something). Yoko haters will probably
always be Yoko haters...but it is reassuring to know that as more and more
time passes the genius of this mesmerizing lady becomes more and more apparent.
Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Other Men - Wake Up Swimming (CD, Robcore,
Progressive pop)
During the past couple of years we have become increasingly focused on the
music of Rob Crow. Whether releasing music under various band names
or using his own name, you can just about always bet that if Crow's name
is involved with the project...it will be unique, intriguing, and interesting.
Other Men is not a new band but rather a newly formed recreation
of the band that was originally created in the early 1990s in San Diego.
The members are Travis Nelson (guitar), Manolo Turner (drums),
and Rob Crow (bass, vocals). Unlike most bands that reform to churn out
their old material, these three guys got together to continue forging ahead
toward the future with their sound. Fans of Pinback and Crow's solo
albums will be pleased to know that Wake Up Swimming sounds very
similar in terms of the overall sound and style. The band's herky jerky
rhythms, odd guitar riffs, and unpredictable vocal melodies somehow come
off sounding extremely cohesive and catchy. That just may be the real draw
of Rob's music. It sounds strange, offbeat, and peculiar...and yet the songs
are almost always catchy as hell in their own peculiar way. This
obtuse kickass album features eleven tracks including "Other People,"
"Kind of Off to the Side a Bit," "Indiscriminate Proposals
of Little Marcy," and "Bullet Train to Jimbo's." This is
the first release on Crow's newly created Robcore label. Highly recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)
Pola
- Pola (CD, Ionik,
Pop)
Catania, Italy's Pola is a rather odd pop band combining traditional
elements with shifting electronic snippets that are sometimes reminiscent
of The Lemon of Pink. The band is driven by the songwriting talents
of Tazio Iacobacci who was previously in the band Keen Toy.
This is a short album clocking in at just under 30 minutes. But in that
short amount of time, this band's unusual approach becomes quite obvious.
The acoustic guitars and strange electronics combine to create a peculiar
modern pop concoction that doesn't sound like the rest. Puzzling and subtle,
Pola is an album that may very well appeal to fans of Sweden's Cake
On Cake. Clever cuts include "Twenty Years Ago," "Lyrics?
No Thanks," "Non Grata," and "A New End." Interesting.
(Rating: 4+++++)
The President is
Shitty.
Physically and mentally
Shitty.(Rating: 1)
Radical Face - Ghosts (CD, Morr
Music, Progressive pop)
Another substantial release from Germany's perpetually intriguing Morr
Music. Radical Face is the one man band consisting of Ben
Cooper...a young man who is taking an unusual and odd approach to music.
Recorded in his own residence in Florida, Ghosts is centered around
the theme of ghosts that reside in peoples' homes. While Cooper's music
resembles Sufjan Stevens, Harpers Bizarre, and Starflyer
59 at times, he is by no means copying the sound or style of others.
Instead, by following his own peculiar instincts, Ben is creating thoroughly
engaging music that truly stands on its own in todays' world. While his
tunes are, for the most part, soft pop...he weaves all sorts of odd sounds
and atmospheres into the mix...which gives these pop tracks another ghostly
dimension. We had to spin this little sucker about ten times before we came
to conclusions about this CD. We finally realized...that we were truly affected
by the music. Colorful, imaginative, and utterly wonderful cuts include
"Asleep On a Train," "The Strangest Things," "Wrapped
In Piano Strings," and "Winter Is Coming." Highly recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)
An abnormal fear
Of assholes.(Rating: 1)
Red
Button - She's About to Cross My Mind
(Independently released CD, Pop)
On She's About to Cross My Mind, the guys in Red Button are
ripping off 1960s bands like The Beatles and Herman's Hermits
in every way imaginable with absolutely no sense of shame and no self respect
whatsoever...and it sounds just great. The band is actually the duo
consisting of Seth Swirsky and Mike Ruekberg...two fellows
who obviously have a mental fixation with British pop groups from the past.
What is possibly most interesting about this album is the fact that these
guys have managed to capture the idea and energy of the sixties while presenting
their material with decidedly twenty-first century production values. The
songs sound like old songs...yet the sound quality is top notch and
very current. Of course songs are everything...and songs are what make this
album such a guilty pleasure. Supremely hummable, upbeat, and happy...we
can't help but be knocked out by tracks like "Cruel Girl," "Floating
By," "She's Going Down" (our favorite), "Gonna Make
You Mine," and "It's No Secret." Very impressive stuff. (Rating:
5+)
Retconned - Unhappenings (CD, Stickfigure,
Electronic punk)
Retconned is Jonathan Lukens, an Atlanta musician taking an
unconventional approach to music. Electronic punk made its biggest splash
from the late 1970s to the 1990s...and now seems to be a mostly forgotten
phenomenon. Mr. Lukens is bringing the art form back to life...his tunes
recall bands like Suicide, Babyland, and early Ultravox.
Unhappenings features appropriately loose analog synthesizers and
vocals that are drenched with attitude. Jonathan's songs seem to reveal
a general tendency to create distance from society. These obtuse, alienated
tracks are experimental...yet they retain enough familiar elements to be
quite listenable and entertaining. Peculiar cuts include "Opposed Thumb,"
"Obvious," "Bring the Jubilee," and "Flags."
(Rating: 4++++)
Snatches
of Pink - Love Is Dead (CD, 8th House, Pop/rock)
We don't mind admitting up front that we are not the most informed and authoritative
folks on the planet when it comes to Snatches of Pink. We remember
having heard the band's name for years...but for some reason (possibly because
of the band name) we tended to lump them in the generic pop/new wave basket
of the 1980s. Our ignorance may be a plus...because we were immediately
surprised and impressed with Love Is Dead. Rather than pretentious
pop, these guys play genuine bluesy rock that features really great guitars
and decidedly loose vocals. The band is based in Chapel Hill, North Carolina...which
could explain why they apparently haven't lost their spark after all these
years. This fifteen track album sounds surprisingly fresh and energetic,
giving us the impression that the guys in this band are playing for the
right reason...which is to have a good time and entertain others. Top picks:
"Rocks," "From the Sun," "The War Room," "Alice."
Genuine rock played with guts. (Rating: 4++++)
Sorijev - L'es Faile'e (Independently released CD, Progressive/experimental)
Italy's Sorijev is an interesting band with an interesting approach
to music. Instead of sounding like current bands or offering commercial
pop, the fellows in this band write and record complex rock that harkens
back to some of the more adventurous progressive dinosaur bands of the 1970s...recalling
obscure artists like Gentle Giant at times. L'es Faile'e is
a lengthy album clocking in at just under 60 minutes. During that time,
these folks delve into rock, jazz, pop, and atmospheric electronics. After
spinning this album several times...we still weren't sure what to make of
it. And that is, of course, quite a compliment indeed. You have to hand
it to these musicians. Their music is, first and foremost, a pure form of
personal expression. The band consists of Ema (vocals, guitars),
Friedrik (guitars, keyboards), and Laivh (drums). For a trio...these
folks sure have a mighty BIG sound. Impressive. (Rating: 5)
Spring, glorious Spring.
The time when
Everything starts to
Die.(Rating: 1)
Story
of the Sea - Enjoying Fire (CD, Speakerphone, Progressive
pop)
Created by members of Minneapolis bands Houston, Manplanet,
and The Dames, Story of the Sea is a smart, intelligent, progressive
hard rock band with a difference. Enjoying Fire features ten guitar
driven pop/rock tracks that sound something like a more hard rocking version
of Starflyer 59...although the band's sound is also similar in some
ways to Little Brazil. What makes the tunes on this CD such a delight
is the variety of sounds and styles. This band's music is sometimes soft
and sometimes loud...sometimes simple and direct and sometimes rather complex
and odd. Whatever sound or style they're playing, however, the guys in this
band manage to make it all sound as simple as pumpkin pie. Unlike many albums
that can be summed up and digested in a single spin, Enjoying Fire
is one of those albums that gets better and better the more you hear it.
Creative rockers include "Karma," "Distillery," "Well
Adjusted," "Wish the Wish," and "Free To Go." Great
stuff, excellent sound quality throughout. (Rating: 5+)
Maria Taylor - Lynn Teeter Flower (CD, Saddle
Creek, Pop)
We have been big fans of Maria Taylor ever since we heard the first
release from Azure Ray several years ago. Azure Ray may be gone...but
Taylor continues writing, recording, and releasing albums featuring her
soft, personal, pensive pop. The tracks on Lynn Teeter Flower were
recorded and mixed in a variety of studios in a variety of different cities
which may explain the varying array of approaches and styles on the album.
The lead track ("A Good Start") had us worried. Although we can
understand Maria's desire to tread into the more accessible world of music,
this song seems to be the first hint at possibly selling out. There are
a couple of other tracks that also suffer because they sound too consciously
accessible ("No Stars," "Irish Goodbye"). Fortunately,
the remainder of the album still retains the soft and sincere music we are
accustomed to hearing from Maria. Our favorites this time around are "Clean
Getaway," "No Stars," and "Small Part of Me." While
Teeter Flower is a very good album...we have to admit that this is
the first time we have been slightly disappointed by Taylor. She hasn't
totally caved in for cash yet...but if she continues on this path, the artistic
merit of her work may slowly diminish. This is a very good album...but let's
just hope the next album is a return to form. (Rating: 4+++)
Vocokesh - ...All This and Hieronymus Bosch (CD, Strange
Attractors, Psychedelic/instrumental)
Milwaukee, Wisconsin's Vocokesh return with their eighth album. The
fellows in this band play acid-laced psychedelic music in the same general
vein as Steve Hillage, Clearlight Symphony, Amon Duul,
and Acid Mothers Temple. The compositions on ...All This and Hieronymus
Bosch are improvisational tracks featuring a wealth of trippy guitars
and even sitars. What is perhaps most appealing about this album is the
fact that...despite all the truly weird passages...it has an overall calming
effect on the listener. The music of Vocokesh could perhaps be as equally
influenced by 1970s progressive bands as present day modern jazz artists.
These spontaneous, free-flowing pieces harken back to the past...while helping
to introduce this style of music to a whole new breed of listeners. Nifty
mental cuts include "Eddie Makes the Scene," "The Truth Regarding
Sunspots," "Standing in the Ruins," and "Vibe #8."
(Rating: 5+)
If Walt Disney
Could see
How his corporation
Has transformed into
A greedy army of
Money hungry pigs
He would probably
Throw up all over
Mickey Mouse.(Rating: 1)
Winning isn't
Everything and
Everything isn't
Anything.(Rating: 1)
YouTube.com (A real hit and miss web site)
Even though we had never ever even visited the site, we had pretty much
dismissed YouTube.com as a total waste. After all, the only clips
we ever heard about or saw through other sources were homemade clips of
people acting stupid (something we can easily witness in our everyday lives
any old day of the year). Our recent visit to the web site revealed something
very interesting. Yes, the site is filled with absolute JUNK...but in addition,
we were blown away to find that odd, unusual, and rare clips of some absolutely
FANTASTIC musical artists were also on display. In our short time browsing
and viewing, we we absolutely thrilled to find such oddities as The Kinks
performing "Wonder Boy" (yow!), the original Cockney
Rebel playing "Cavaliers" live (double yow!), Donovan
playing "Yellow Star" live, Roy Wood performing the criminally
overlooked "Whisper In The Night" with the original Electric
Light Orchestra lineup, Sufjan Stevens singing "John Wayne
Gacy, Jr.", and a wealth of killer T. Rex interviews and clips...and
that was just the beginning. Sure, many of the clips are herky jerky
and of questionable quality but the thing is...they are THERE for FREE VIEWING.
Our guess is that over time copyright laws will kick in and many of these
items will be removed...but for the time being, YouTube.com is offering
some great stuff if you search for the right things. Of course, considering
the fact that 98% of the material is JUNK...we will still have to give this
site an overall rating of "3". It'll be interesting to see what
the future holds for sites like this... (Rating: 3)
1,2,3,4 - Doctor
A Brokeheart Pro - The kitten next door
Brandon Adamson - Costume drama
Akimbo - Harshing your mellow
A Northern Chorus - The millions too many
Apse - Spirit
Army of Me - Citizen
At Swim Two Birds - Returning to the scene of the crime...
Brittany - Shane
Randy Brown - Dream big
Keith Bryant - Live it slow
Bunny - Play to my own tune
Call Sound Call Noise - Call Sound Call Noise
Gina Catalino - Swept in sound
Cinematics - A strange education
Tammy Cochran - Where i am
Daphne Loves Derby - Good night, witness light
Dash Rip Rock - Hee haw hell
Charley Dush - Breakdown union
Eastern Conference Champions - Eastern Conference Champions
Eyes To Space - From the bureau of robotic affairs
Fall - Reformation
Frog Eyes - Tears of the valedictorian
Glos - Harmonium
Go Find - Stars on the wall
Graboids - Infinite delay
Graduate - Anhedonia
Hide From Cleo - Coffee dreams and acoustic beans
Hiding in Public - What lies ahead
Hourly Radio - History will never hold me
Inevitable Backlash - Sex for safety EP
(International) Noise Conspiracy - Live at oslo jazz festival
John Wilkes Booze 13 - The silver session
Juba Dance - Orange
Kalli - While the city sleeps
Keyboard Cathy - Inspiration
Kids Techno - The devil and salisbury plain
Kind - Visit yourself
Lampshades - Surprise!
Legend of Dutch Savage - All will be good when i'm gone
Andrew Lipke - The way home...
Lisi - Damn it!!
Lord Fyre's Sound System - Soul BBQ
Lord Fyre - Destruction at 2013
LZ Love - My higher ground
Christine Martucci Band - I'm all in
Kevin McCarthy and Beautiful Loser - Hiding in plain sight
Cody McCarver - Peace, love and coondawgs
Maria McKee - Late december
Dave Mehling - How do i make you lonesome
New Atlantic - The streets, the sounds, and the love
Num9 - The glow-worm's resistance
Number 23 - Original motion picture score
Origami Ghosts - Solving my own puzzles...
Panther - Secret lawns
Patchwork - Work and worry
Christine Rachelle - The love i feel
Roark - Break of day
Eldridge Rodriguez - The conspiracy against us
Gena Rowlands Band - Flesh and spirits
Cliff Rubin - Dreamers and children
Saps - C'mon already start a fire
Satellite Program - Adoration in retreat
Scharpling and Wurster - The best of Scharpling and Wurster on the best
show on WMFU Vol. 4 - The art of the slap
Sherwood - A different light
Shinyville - No sleep till babylon
Signal Hill Transmission - An empty space
Singular - I finally know what's good for me
Slaraffenland - Private cinema
Songs of Praise & Joy - Songs of Praise & Joy
Leeroy Stagger - Depression river
Judd Starr - Luminiescent
State of Ohio - State of Ohio
Swampdawamp - Swampdawamp
Kelly Sweet - We are one
Tarwater - Spider smile
Greg Theien - Enough thunder
Therefore I Am - Therefore I Am
This Story - Darling, it's war
Two Cow Garage - Three
Unknown Instructors - The master's voice
Utah Carol - Rodeo queen
Anna Wilson - Time changes everything
Wensday - A taste of torch rock
Xactimate - Version 24
Zen Boy & Karma Girl - Who they are and how they came to be!
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