babysue Store * Donate * Contact * Jokes * LMNOP aka dONW7 * Poetry * T-Shirts * Review Policies
babysue Store * Donate * Contact * Jokes * LMNOP aka dONW7 * Poetry
* T-Shirts * Review
Policies
June 2012 Comics, Poems, Jokes, and Reviews
from
aka 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Q: Why are all the girls at school so gross and ugly?
A: Because they were born that way.
Q: When should boys begin wearing makeup?
A: As soon as they are born.
Q: What do people see?
A: Nothing.
Q: What is there to be afraid of?
A: Everything.
Q: What is a 'professional'...?
A: A person who wears nice clothes and lies in order to get your money.
Q: What do figures of authority deserve?
A: To be treated like scum.
Q: What does a cute little puppy do when you throw a ball?
A: It fetches it.
Q: If you wish upon a beautiful bright star in the sky is it possible that one day your wish just might come true?
A: No.
Q: How does plastic food taste?
A: Better than real food.
Q: What do Heaven and Hell have in common?
A: Neither one exists.
Q: What is the difference between a "tranny" and a "trainee"...?
A: One works and the other doesn't.
Q: What should you do when you meet someone for the very first time?
A: Giggle and look in the other direction.
Q: What does it mean every time a girl has her period?
A: It means that an unborn fetus has died up inside of her uterus.
Q: When does the confusion brought on by puberty end?
A: Never.
Q: Why do people use deodorant, cologne, and perfume?
A: Because they stink.
Q: What do you get when you learn to accept people for what they really are?
A: Depressed and suicidal.
Q: What do you do when your favorite tasty treat is placed right in front of you?
A: You eat it.
Q: If women are from Mars and men are from Venus, where is everyone else from?
A: Mississippi.
Q: How ashamed should you be?
A: Real ashamed.
Q: What do you get when you break someone's heart?
A: A good hearty chuckle.
Q: How far apart should you stay from everyone else?
A: Real far apart.
Q: What should you do when it's time to attend your graduation ceremony?
A: Skip it.
Q: Is there any subject worth studying?
A: No.
Q: When should homework be due?
A: Never.
Q: What are cheerleaders?
A: Ignorant and ugly.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Folks who care
Are full of
Air.
Alexander
& The Grapes - Hemispheres (CD,
New Granada, Pop)
The debut album from Tampa, Florida's Alexander & The Grapes.
These guys play a slightly different style of music that sounds something
like a marriage of progressive pop, alternative country, and Americana.
The songs on Hemispheres sound refreshingly sincere and real...which
is probably the result of a group of guys who are relatively new to the
recording process. The first thing that caught our attention here was the
strange instrumental segment that appeared out of nowhere on the third track
("Conversation"). It's a strange transitional passage that most
seasoned musicians would never risk including in a tune...but here it works
perfectly. If you think you know what bands from Florida sound like,
think again. As we've said before, over the past few years Florida has been
producing bands whose music blurs across boundaries. The press release suggests
this band for fans of artists like Pedro The Lion, Frightened
Rabbit, Dr. Dog, and The Band. Whether you like any of
the aforementioned artists or not, if you like smart melodic subdued pop
music with superb melodies and inspired lyrics...there's a good chance you'll
go nuts over Hemispheres. Twelve well-executed tracks here including
"Another Year," "Conversation," "Chuck Stewart
Has A Dream," "Jordan," and "Seeds." Instantly
refreshing and cool... Top pick.
Bachman
& Turner - Live at the Roseland Ballroom,
NYC (Double CD, Eagle Rock
Entertainment, Pop/rock)
The name has changed slightly...but the basic idea and sound remains. Randy
Bachman and C. F. Turner will forever be remembered as the leaders
of the incredibly successful band Bachman-Turner Overdrive. In the
band's heyday they sold more than thirty million records and had enormously
popular hits that fans still pay to hear. In 2009 the two got back together
(using the name Bachman & Turner). recorded an album, and then
followed it up with a live concert in November 2010 at the Roseland Ballroom
in New York. This double CD is the audio documentation of that historic
show. In addition to playing songs from their newest album, the pair also
played the stuff the fans wanted to hear. Their best known hits are included
here: "Let It Ride" and "Takin' Care of Business" (of
course, of course...). The folks at Eagle Rock are releasing the concert
on DVD and Blu-Ray later this year. Until then...the duo's fans will most
certainly welcome this with open arms. Twenty tracks played with finesse
and style...
Flesh
Eating
Bacteria
Saves lives.
Phil
Barry - Between The Carolinas (CD, Princess / Chased
By Flying Monkeys, Pop)
Phil Barry has been a very busy man over the past few years. In the
early 2000's he played in the band Knee Deep Shag (they released
four full-length discs and played hundreds of shows). After the band split
he played guitar for Rachael Yamagata which involved touring the
globe. Now Phil's keeping busy writing and recording solo material, playing
in the band Corn Fed Girls, and quilting (?!). Between The Carolinas
is Barry's first full-length release...and it's chock full of warm, inviting,
highly melodic tunes that will immediately turn on fans of classic pop.
Thus far Barry's music has been compared to a wide range of artists including
Alex Chilton, John Lennon, Simon and Garfunkel, and Crosby, Stills,
Nash & Young (among others). Phil originally released this album
as a CD-R way back in 2009 (it was one of our Top Picks then). Now the smart
intuitive folks at Princess Records have done the right thing, reissuing
the album to what will hopefully be a substantially larger audience. Ten
killer pop cuts here including "Cora," "Mercury," "The
Spaces," and "Goodbye Is Not The End." Once again...this
one's highly recommended...
B.
Hamilton - Everything I Own Is Broken
(CD, Parks and Records,
Rock)
First off...you may be interested to know that B. Hamilton is a band
and not an individual. The band is the trio comprised of Andrew Macy
(bass), Bill Crowley (drums), and Ryan Christopher Parks (guitar,
vocals). Everything I Own Is Broken is definitely the rawest release
we've yet to hear on the Parks and Records label. And in this case that's
a good thing cuz these three guys have a great big ol' cool loud sound that
is inviting and somewhat abrasive. If you don't like ragged edges, this
may be too rugged for your taste. We love it loud and raw of course...so
we were immediately drawn to these genuinely inspired rock tunes. In spinning
this we couldn't help but be reminded of some of our favorite 1990s bands
when loud guitars and general controlled chaos seemed to be in great supply.
Plenty of crashing rhythms...pumping bass lines...overdriven guitars...and
totally loose vocals. We'd be willing to bet our baby booties that Andrew,
Bill and Ryan put on one helluva show for their fans. Kickass tracks include
"Me and Margaret Counting Backwards," "Outside A Hexagram,"
"Turn Out the Lights," and "On Borrowed Time." Kickass
stuff played with BALLS. Top pick.
Mark
Bates - Night Songs (Independently released
CD, Pop)
The second full-length release from Los Angeles, California's Mark Bates.
After hearing this man's music you may very well be asking yourself, "Why
isn't this guy already hugely famous?" After all, Bates has the
songs...the voice...and the presence to please millions upon millions of
fans. His songs are thoughtful, smart, familiar, melodic, and immediately
accessible. The answer to the question probably lies in the fact that there
are so many hundreds of thousands of credible artists that it's impossible
for them all to find a large audience. It's a sad fact but a very real
fact in the twenty-first century. The good part...is that there's more great
music being made today than ever before. The bad part...is that a smaller
and smaller percentage of artists seem to be able to make any profit at
all from their music. Oh well. Whether he ever hits it big or not we have
the feeling that Mark will probably be making music anyway...because from
what we're hearing here we'd guess that music probably just lives in his
veins. Groovy smooth pop cuts on Night Songs including "Ghost
Tonight," "Lucinda," "Rosie," and "Tomorrow's
Here."
BEAK>
- >> (CD, Invada,
Progressive/rock)
The press release that accompanied this album made us chuckle. According
to the text the band never played live prior to recording their first album.
After it was released they began touring and playing live which had very
negative effects on their ability to record a solid follow-up. Apparently
all the touring "...turned them into a truly awful-sounding pub
prog-rock band" (haw haw!). BEAK> (and yes, note the
band name is always followed by the right arrow sign...) is the trio of
Geoff Barrow, Matt Williams, and Billy Fuller. We never
heard the debut album so we can't compare and contrast here. The songs on
>> in some ways sound like demo recordings. The overall sound
is sparse and minimalistic...possibly the result of most of the music being
recorded live in one room ("with very few overdubs"). Some
of these tracks recall early German electronic artists from the 1970s...while
other cuts are more peculiar, abstract, and dark. The best thing we can
say here...is that this album doesn't sound like any other bands
that we've heard of late. And in a world where so many artists sound the
same that is a major accomplishment. Ten groovy cuts here including
"The Gaul," "Liar," "Elevator," and "Kidney."
Way cool groovy music that gets groovier and groovier the more you spin
it... TOP PICK.
The
Blakes - Art of Losses (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The guys in The Blakes have been making music since 2001. They've
released numerous well-received albums and EPs...and their songs have appeared
in a variety of different television programs and films. And yet...even
with all that...we have to admit this is the first time (to our knowledge)
that we have heard their music. It's a real sign-of-the-times kinda thing
going on here. In the twenty-first century there are so many great artists
that it becomes impossible to be aware of them all. We're big fans of the
better late than never philosophy...and that one certainly holds true here.
The Blakes are driven by the songwriting team of brothers Snow Keim
and Garnet Keim...two guys have have an uncanny knack for penning
some cool classic memorable pop. For this album these Seattle, Washington
residents traveled to Maine which allowed them the peace and quiet necessary
in order to totally concentrate on their recorded sound. The album title
was the result of a great amount of sadness and loss that recently occurred
with regard to friends and family. But you'd never know the songs deal with
downer topics because Art of Losses has an overall upbeat sparkling
sound that is immediately inviting and refreshing. Snow and Garnet write
modern classics...guitar driven pop songs with a heavy emphasis on vocal
melodies. And when they hit the target...man oh man do they hit the CENTER.
"Sea Fishing" and "New Friends" are easily two of the
best songs we've heard thus far in 2012. This is a stunning album that makes
us want to immediately go back and grab up everything these guys have recorded.
It's a total winner with a totally winning sound... Top pick.
Blue
Sausage Infant - Manitou (CD, Alrealon Musique, Pop)
Blue Sausage Infant is the one man project created by Chester
Hawkins way back in 1986. Like many artists from this time period, Hawkins
began his career by releasing independent cassettes. Since that time he's
continued on his mission to record music which he describes as "an
improvised form of psychedelia with a glaze of paranoid tension."
Those words should give you a good idea of what to expect here. Manitou
is a form of true creative expression. Chester obviously doesn't give a
damn about giving most listeners what they want to hear. Instead, this man
challenges himself and his listeners by writing and recording mind-expanding
pieces during which anything can happen. This album offers material that
is progressive and experimental. But unlike some artists who make music
so artsy and weird that it is unlistenable...this fellow's music is somehow
strangely inviting and provocative. Produced by Hawkins and Robert L.
Pepper (this guy's name pops up all over the place lately), Manitou
is an odd ride through modern experimental psychedelia. Nine cool tracks
here including "Afflicted by the Wind Disease," "The Moss
Takes Over," and "Abdominal Frost." Strangely intoxicating.
Top pick.
Zach
Broocke - Enjoy The Ride: Solo Writes 2001-2012
(CD, Lakeshore, Pop)
This may or may not be the first non-soundtrack related release from those
fine folks at Lakeshore Records...but it's the first one we've seen (the
label has also just released albums by the artists Frequency and
Zero The Antistar). According to Zach Broocke's web site,
Enjoy The Ride is a retrospective of his solo writing skills and
was written over a span of eleven years. The album features ten smooth groovin'
pop tracks with simple arrangements and definite flavors of folk and Americana.
Zach's songs have popped up in several motion pictures and television shows
over the past few years and he's made some amazing connections in the world
of music. Enjoy The Ride is just the kind of album folks these days
crave. The songs are mostly laidback mid-tempo pop tracks with the central
focus being Broocke's cool masculine vocals. Nothing but hummable smooth
cuts here. Our favorites include "Enjoy The Ride," "Remember
Me," "Dial Tone," and "Just Can't Wait."
Builder
Of The House - I Am A Tidal Wave (Independently
released CD EP, Soft pensive pop)
Builder Of The House is the one man band created by Rob Cimitile
along with a few friends offering support. I Am A Tidal Wave differs
from the average twenty-first century solo project in that Rob's tunes are
threaded with elements normally associated with folk and bluegrass. But
the six songs on this EP are mainly pop songs...yet they have different
intoxicating flavors. To our ears, these tracks sound something like a cross
between Elliott Smith and Ray Davies (more the former than
the latter). Rob writes great memorable tunes with super smart lyrics...and
he has a nifty voice that is instantly warm and appealing. We particularly
love the band name and web site. This guy's going to develop a sizable following
fast...
Cactus
Truck - Brand New For China! (CD, Public Eyesore, Pop)
Yet another exercise in difficult listening from the curious folks
at Public Eyesore (!). Cactus Truck is the Amsterdam-based trio comprised
of John Dikeman (saxophones), Jasper Stadhouders (guitar,
bass), and Onno Govaert (drums). According to the band's web site,
they create songs that combine "...hints of delta blues, early free
jazz, Japanese noise, and no wave in the music." These guys play it
hard and harsh on this, their first official full-length release. The chaotic
nature of these compositions reminds us a great deal of the strange atonal
instrumental segments in early Captain Beefheart recordings. The
spontaneous intense energy is unforgiving and certainly not intended for
a mass audience. Purely experimental stuff that is strange, nervous, and
peculiar. We can only recommend this to folks into the stranger side of
modern jazz and experimental music. Just over 30 minutes in length, Brand
New For China! is an experience you won't soon forget...
Those who can't,
Can't.
Cinema
Cinema - Manic Children & The Slow Aggression
(Independently released CD, Hard rock)
Cinema Cinema is the duo of Ev Gold (vocals, guitars) and
Paul Claro (drums). This is one hellacious album chock full of rip-roarin'
loud rock played with authentic intensity. These guys released their debut
album (Exile Baby) in 2008 and then proceeded to tour like madmen.
For this, their second full-length, they hooked up with producer Don
Zientara...who helped them record these simple, direct, explosive cuts.
These guys' approach to music is refreshing. Using only the basics they
concentrate on song structure and chops. So many artists and bands seem
to have softened their sound and approach this century. Not these guys.
Gold and Claro play with refreshing conviction...tearing away at their instruments
like the very worst violent offenders. There's a huge amount of material
here. This album clocks in at just under 80 minutes (?!!)...so you know
you're getting your money's worth. Hard rockin' stuff that's passionate
and furious.
Jim
Coleman - Trees (Independently released
CD, Instrumental/atmospheric/progressive)
Jim Coleman will forever be etched into many peoples' minds as a
member of the 1990s industrial rock band Cop Shoot Cop. And for good
reason...because Cop Shoot Cop was one of the best and most credible
industrial rock bands of the 1990s. Sadly, the group disbanded in 1996.
But by that time Coleman had already been shifting his energies and
focus into other areas. Trees is Jim's first electro-acoustic release.
It's a soft and soothing collection of tunes that bridge the gap between
subtle instrumental and ambient music. Some way cool credible folks offered
a lending hand here...playing with Jim on this album are Phil Puleo,
Kirsten McCord, Ellen Fulman, Dawn McCarthy, and Bryan Christie.
Coleman may be playing to a completely different kinda audience now...but
he's just as successful because his motivation is pure and real.
Ten intoxicating cuts including "Sideways," "Another Place,"
"Override," and "Rain." Soothing...organic...dreamy...
David
Courtney - The Show Must Go On (CD,
Angel Air, Pop)
This is a different sort of retrospective album presented in a different
way. Great Britain's David Courtney is best known for songs he wrote
for other artists. The biggest hits he penned were "Giving It All Away"
(recorded by Roger Daltrey) and "The Show Must Go On" (recorded
by Leo Sayer). This album presents re-recordings of some of David's
best known songs as well as a couple of older recordings from Adam Faith.
These songs were recorded by Courtney himself, The Rooftop Band (who
in reality are the Brighton Beach Boys), Superlungs, and Shiva
King. The sound and presentation were created in order to give a somewhat
circus-like feel to the proceedings. It's interesting to hear these recordings
as they bring many of these tunes squarely into place in the twenty-first
century. With the release of this album it makes you wonder who's going
to cover one of David's tunes next? Thirteen cuts including "Slow
Motion," "Giving It All Away," "One Man Band,"
"The Dancer," and "The Show Must Go On."
All
Beliefs is
Cruddy.
There are no good
Decisions.
Matthew
de Zoete - Colour Film (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Beautifully executed modern pop with rich exotic arrangements. This is the
third full-length release from Canada's Matthew de Zoete (pronounced
"duh-ZOO-tuh"). He released his debut album (Across The Sea)
in 2006 and then followed up with Bottom Of The World in 2008. Since
then he's been focusing on playing live...doing tours of North America and
Europe. Our guess is that fans will immediately embrace this album with
open arms. Colour Film features wonderfully warm melodic compositions
with smart personable lyrics...and the sound quality is top notch throughout.
de Zoete has a killer voice...somewhat subdued and kinda dreamy...but always
exactly on cue. We liked this album the first couple of times we heard it.
But by the sixth or seventh spin...we found ourselves completely immersed
in this ultra-talented man's rich world of sound. Every track is a standout
but our own particular favorites include "The Good Life," "Anything
Is Possible," "Colour Film," and "Hunter's Moon"
(which features a truly outstanding melody that will stick in our minds
for years). An obvious TOP PICK. Highly recommended...
Ernesto Diaz-Infante - Civilian Life (CD, Pax
Recordings, Experimental/sound)
Perplexing experimental music recorded in strange places. San Francisco,
California's Ernesto Diaz-Infante isn't making music for the masses.
Quite the opposite. This talented fellow records strange sound pieces wherever
he chooses using nothing but a Sony Portable Minidisc recorder and a Tascam
Portastudio 4-track. Considering the limited recording equipment, we were
immediately impressed that Diaz-Infante manages to do so much using so little.
The compositions on Civilian Life are not music in the traditional
sense of the word. Ernesto captures sound and then turns it into music.
Some of these pieces are dreamy while others have a more industrial machine-like
sound. This is one of those albums that is difficult to describe because
there aren't any easy and obvious reference points. There's a lot to take
in on this ultra-creative 49 minute disc. Standout cuts include "Sun
Hypnotic!," "The Morning Sun Pours Through the Window," and
"Small Halo." Impressive stuff.
You
Don't have to do
Anything.
Brian
Dunn - TVs and Radios (CD, Cosmic Daves Record Factory,
Pop)
TVs and Radios is an album that grows on you...fast. On the
first couple of spins we admit we weren't blown away by this disc. But there
was something in these tunes that captured our attention so we kept spinning
'em and a day later...we were totally won over. This is the second full-length
release from Sudbury's Brian Dunn and it's bound to go over well
with folks who want simple direct honest music. We've said it before and
we'll say it again. Folks in Canada are creating better Americana music
than folks in the United States. And when you stop to think about it, that
seems kinda odd (!). Dunn's songs like somewhere in between Americana and
folky pop...and they remind us in many ways of singer/songwriters from the
great 1970s era of FM radio. Fourteen songs here and each one has something
different to offer. Brian has an exceptional voice that really strikes emotional
chords. Fourteen beautifully crafted cuts including "Winnipeg,"
"Victoria Park," "Katherine," "Love," and
"Baltimore." Heartfelt and inspired from start to finish. Top
pick.
Easter
Island - Frightened (Independently released
CD, Cerebral pop)
We liked what we were hearing on these guys' last EP (Better Things)
that came out early 2011. But that didn't adequately prepare us for this
incredibly effective and thoroughly engaging album. Frightened features
great subdued cerebral pop with wonderful gliding melodies, killer vocals,
and cool chiming guitars. These guys have a sound that is difficult to pin
down...but at different points this album reminds us of Ben Folds,
The Hang Ups, The Lassie Foundation, Lilys, and The
Beach Boys. The band is comprised of Patrick Ferguson, Ryan Monahan,
Asher Payne, Ethan Payne, and Nathan Thompson. This album will
instantly catapult Easter Island to the next level in their career.
These songs are smart, mature, and thoughtful...and they have cool resonant
qualities that make you want to hear them repeatedly for an extended period
of time. If you like dreamy pop music...it doesn't get much better than
this. Eleven mindblowing tunes here including "Weekend," "Ginger,"
"Sneaking," and "Can't Take You Anywhere" (this last
track is one the most beautiful songs we have heard in months). These
guys have really outdone themselves...creating an album that will hold up
for decades. TOP PICK.
Edmund
II - Floating Monk (Independently released
CD, Pop)
Highly stylized modern pop with a heavy emphasis on arrangements. Some folks
may remember Edmund II as a member of the late 1990s band Utah!
The band made a bit of a splash and made some interesting connections during
it's lifespan. Floating Monk is Edmund's debut full-length which
took about three years to complete. The album features mature thoughtful
songs that in some ways remind us of 1980s icon Peter Murphy. A lot
of time and energy was obviously spent crafting these tracks. We can hear
traces of Edmund's influences here which include Tortoise, The
Cure, Sigur Ros, and Shellac. Monk features nice
epic flowing tracks that are somewhat dreamy and thoroughly realized from
start to finish. Twelve tracks including "Golden Lung," "Roselia,"
"Lost Our Shape," and "Avere Sonno."
Ex
Norwegian - House Music (Limited Edition
Independently released CD-R, Pop)
We can safely say without reservation that our most played artist in 2012
is Ex Norwegian. Led by the unbelievably talented Roger Houdaille
(formerly in the band Father Bloopie), this band now has released
three mind boggling albums...each one as good or better than the last. Note
that when you first hear Ex Norwegian you might not be totally blown away.
We initially liked the songs for sure...but it wasn't until several months
after we had played the debut album into the ground that we began to fully
appreciate what we were hearing. Houdaille is one of those guys who writes
songs that sound simple...and yet there are so many subtle hooks and twists
going on that you just don't catch 'em all at first. He's got a killer voice,
writes melodies that are out-of-this-world...and also pens some of the smartest
lyrics in history. House Music has the exact same effect on us as
the last two albums. Once we started playing it...we just couldn't STOP.
The album begins with the sinfully melodic "Ginger Baby" before
launching into one of our top favorite pop songs ever..."Original Copy"
(which includes some killer lyrics..."Let's be original...just like
the original..."). There are so many lyrics here that we can't
get out of our heads... ("Take initiative...it's free...").
One killer pop tune after another...and on this limited edition bonus CD-R
you get additional bonus tracks that are not offered with the download.
And speaking of...right now the band is offering this album as a FREE (??!!)
download--although we would certainly recommend you donate something to
give them the proper incentive to keep pushing ahead. Every Ex Norwegian
album is a must have. As we said before, you must listen to the
songs a good ten or twenty times before they really sink in. But
when they sink in...you are likely to be addicted for life. House Music
is easily one of the best pop albums of 2012. Highly recommended.
Top pick.
Fire & Time - Works For Orchestra (CD, Navona,
Classical)
The folks at Navona are providing a great service to the music world. It's
unfortunate but in the world of classical music (just as is the case in
the world of pop, rock, and jazz), most folks just want to hear the same
old artists from the past played over and over and over again. And
that's a real shame because...probably much to the surprise of many listeners...there
are thousands of new classical composers on the planet continually
coming up with new pieces that ought to be receiving more attention than
they do. As such, Fire & Time: Works For Orchestra is a nice
tasty introduction to six modern composers: Karen A. Tarlow, Stephen
Yip, Allen Brings, Paul Osterfield, Steven Block, and Howard Quilling.
After spinning this, you'll probably be asking yourself the same question
we did... With so much great new classical music being written why on earth
are people still spinning the same old standards by Bach, Beethoven,
and Brahms? This is a concise simple way of introducing yourself
to a handful of credible current artists...all of whom will undoubtedly
receive more credit several decades down the road. Features performances
by the St. Petersburg Symphony Orchestra, the Moravian Philharmonic
Orchestra, the Kiev Philharmonic Orchestra, the Slovak Radio
Symphony Orchestra, and the Warsaw Philharmonic Orchestra.
Don
Freund - The Well-Tempered Clavier Book
1 - JS Bach: A Composer's Approach (Double CD + DVD, Navona,
Classical/piano)
We were first introduced to Bach's Well-Tempered Clavier by
way of Walter / Wendy Carlos' electronic recordings from the
1970s. Now in the twenty-first century well-known pianist Don Freund
takes a more traditional approach, presenting the piece in full over the
course of two discs. These compositions are among Bach's best (in our opinion)...so
to hear them so expertly executed here is indeed a mighty big thrill. The
discs are housed in a beautiful tri-fold cardboard sleeve which manages
to house everything in a very small space. Also included in the package
is an instructional DVD by Freund that we cannot make any comment on because
we don't consider ourselves knowledgeable in the field of music instruction.
Irregardless, this is one cool slick package that includes Clavier Book
1 in its entirety...and played with passion. Wonderfully entertaining
music that never gets old. Top pick.
From
Inside - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by Brett Smith (CD, Lakeshore,
Instrumental/experimental)
From Inside is the new film based on the epic graphic novel by John
Bergin. The plot involves a pregnant woman on a damaged train traveling
through a bleak apocalyptic landscape. We haven't yet seen the film...but
after visiting the film's web site we'd be willing to bet this is a strange
one. Produced and performed by Brett Smith, the score / soundtrack
is anything but your typical music prepared for film. These subtle
and strangely haunting pieces are subtle and peculiar...and they definitely
give the listener the feeling of being in a dream state. Those out there
who don't care for scores and soundtracks may want to re-think their stance...as
this disc rivals some of the best ambient/experimental recordings we have
heard of late. Smith layers sounds that are soothing, provocative, and mesmerizing.
Twenty-one beautifully executed cuts here including "Wasteland,"
"Sea of Blood," "Wreckage," and "From Inside."
Incredibly effective stuff... TOP PICK.
Gerry
and the Pacemakers - 20 Year Anniversary
Album - 1982 (CD, Angel Air,
Pop)
Gerry and the Pacemakers have the odd distinction of being the second
best known band to come out of Liverpool, England. The band began in 1962
and proceeded to score several huge hits during that decade. This album
is a real curiosity unearthed by the folks at Angel Air. In 1981 bandleader
Gerry Marsden came into contact with David Martin (of Butterscotch
and AMMO fame). The two became instant friends and a year later decided
to record this album together. What is interesting here is that this album
marries the sounds of the 1960s with the instruments and recorded sound
of the late 1970s and early 1980s. It's kinda like hearing sixties pop recorded
in a studio designed for disco pop (!). This is the first time that this
album has been issued on CD so it'll be interesting to see how folks react
to it in 2012. True, these tracks have a very dated sound...but in a way
there's something strangely appealing here. Twenty melodic cuts including
"You'll Never Walk Alone," "Unchained Melody," "How
Do You Do It," and "House of the Rising Sun."
Gunnelpumpers - Tritonium (CD, Spiritflake, Improvisational/instrumental)
True improvisational music played with a passion for spontaneous creativity.
Gunnelpumpers is the Chicago, Illinois-based group comprised of John
Meyer (electric guitar), Douglas Johnson (Clevinger bass), Michael
Hovnanian (double bass), Tom Mendel (electric bass), Randy
Farr (congas, percussion), and Bob Garrett (drum kit, percussion).
A lot of bands claim to play spontaneous music...but behind the scenes they're
plotting and calculating things. These folks are the real deal. The three
lengthy tracks on Tritonium were recorded at the Elbo Room in Chicago
and before the show the band members spoke very little about what they were
even going to play prior to the show. The result of that evening...? Three
strange groove-oriented compositions that merge ideas from jazz, progressive
rock, modern classical, and experimental into one big unpredictable mass.
We have to admire folks like this because they're obviously not driven by
a desire for money or fame. This is purely artistic stuff...heady and peculiar...and
strangely hypnotic. Our favorite here is the wildly unpredictable "McGroover"
that clocks in at almost 20 minutes (!)...
Haunted
Heads - Haunted Heads (Vinyl LP, Double Plus Good, Pop/rock)
If you love rip-roarin' hard fuzzy guitar pop from the late 1980s and early
1990s, you're probably gonna get all worked up by the guys in Haunted
Heads. This Wisconsin-based band plays with cool unbridled energy on
this, their debut full-length. The songs are presented simply using the
basics (guitars, bass, drums)...and unlike many modern hard pop bands the
songs are not a drony blur (!). We're tempted to label this band's
music as power pop, but that doesn't quite get the idea across because these
songs are actually much more varied and complex than what you would normally
hear from a power pop band. Plenty of quick stops and starts...loud overdriven
guitars...fast propulsive rhythms...and vocals that are tossed out with
appropriate sweaty enthusiasm. You can tell from the sound of these tunes
that these guys put on one helluva live show (hope we catch 'em
soon while they're still on fire...). After hearing so many safe and
sleepy bands lately...the guys in Haunted Heads provided just the kind of
intense masculine jolt we needed. We love this shit...HELL YEAH.
Twelve kickass cuts here including "36 Sharpened Saws," "Soda
Pop" (possibly our favorite), "Ghosts and Devils," and "This
Will Hurt Your Bones." Turn this one up LOUD. Top pick...
Sophie
B. Hawkins - The Crossing (CD, Trumpet
Swan, Pop)
Some of you out there might just be asking yourselves, "Why are
you weirdo underground weirdos bothering to cover an album like this?"
And that is actually a good question, because we usually shy away from extremely
commercial artists. But you know what...even though it may bug the hell
out of many of our ultra cool hip contacts around the globe...there are
actually cases where we dig an artist even if they are famous and
driven mainly by the desire to make money. The music is what matters. So
if the music sounds good...that trumps everything else. This is the first
album of new material from Sophie B. Hawkins in several years. Interestingly,
Hawkins recorded these tracks in her home and acted as engineer on the project.
Apparently her motivation in recording the tunes was to have fun. If that
is indeed true, then Hawkins and her fellow musicians have succeeded admirably.
Yes, these songs are potential commercial hits with all the polish and overdubs
associated with such... But underneath we get the impression that Sophie
is driven mainly by the desire to entertain. And she does so admirably.
Thirteen new songs here plus acoustic versions of four of her biggest hits.
Ms. Hawkins has a wonderfully inviting voice and she knows how to use it...
Allan
Holdsworth - Hard Hat Area (CD, Moonjune, Progressive/jazz), None
Too Soon (CD, Moonjune,
Progressive/jazz)
Reissues of two albums from Allan Holdsworth from the 1990s. Originally
released in 1993, Holdsworth's seventh album Hard Hat was a step
in a different direction. Allan and his band went on tour playing the material
live before entering the studio to record...which may explain why these
tracks sound so tight and precise. Backing Holdsworth are Gary Husband
(drums), Steve Hunt (keyboards), and Skuli Sverrisson (bass).
Digitally remastered in 2011 for this Moonjune reissue, these compositions
are cool and slick...and sound as if they could have been recorded in 2012.
Seven progressive jazz/rock fusion cuts here including "Prelude,"
"Ruhkukah," "Tullio," and "House Of Mirrors. It
was about three years later (1996) when None Too Soon was recorded
and released. This time around Allan is backed by Gordon Beck (piano,
keyboards), Gary Willis (bass), and Kirk Covington (drums).
The album features interpretations of songs by John Coltrane, Bill Evans,
Django Reinhardt, Joe Henderson, Irving Berlin, Gordon Beck, and Lennon
and McCartney. Holdsworth's guitar playing on both of these albums is
nothing short of stunning. Had he been playing rock music at the time he
would have been considered a 'rock god.' But because he was playing progressive
jazz/rock fusion he was probably considered more of an artist than a god.
His fluid snake-like guitar lines are heady, resilient, and often rather
magnificent. We tip our tidy little hats to the folks at Moonjune for making
these albums once again available to the public. Both of these should appeal
equally to jazz and progressive rock fans... Slick heady stuff played with
precise conviction. Top pick.
Hope
For Agoldensummer - Life Inside The Body
(CD, Mezarine, Soft folky pop)
Take note of the way these three artists spell their band name...because
it's different (there are spaces after the words 'hope' and 'for'
but the remaining three words are strung together with no spaces in between).
But the plus is...it makes it lots easier finding them on the internet
(!). Imagine crossing Allison Krause with Azure Ray...and
you may begin to have some idea of what this album sounds like. These young
musicians have lots of folks talking. And you'll be talking about them too
as soon as you hear the smooth dreamy songs on Life Inside The Body.
This album features soft pensive folky songs that have real substance lurking
beneath the waves. Hope For Agoldensummer is the trio comprised of
Claire Campbell, Page Campbell, and Suny Lyons. We
enjoyed Life Inside The Body the first couple of times we heard it.
But by the ninth or tenth spin...we found ourselves totally in love with
these beautifully executed tracks. The lyrics and melodies are exceptional
and the overall vibe is just...intoxicating. This sounds better each
time we hear it. This will easily end up being one of the best albums of
2012. TOP PICK.
Crummy people have
Inherited the
Earth.
Is/Is
- III (CD, Guilt Ridden
Pop, Rock/pop)
In economic terms there are several types of bands. There are bands making
music for money...bands that might be making music for money...and
bands that are definitely not making music for money. This cool trio
definitely fits into the last category. III features decidedly rough
and gritty underground rock/pop songs created purely out of the love of
creating music. That's exactly the kinda thing we've come to expect from
the ultra-cool folks at Guilt Ridden Pop. In a world full of people motivated
by cash, fame, and fortune...this cool label (as well as the bands they
promote) is obviously driven by the desire to spread and share cool sounds
with other like-minded individuals. Is/Is songs are kinda dark and
moody and they lack that annoying techno-polish that ruins so many twenty-first
century rock albums. The more we spin this...the better these songs sound.
Eleven kickass cuts here including "Bomb Me," "Moon Dropping,"
"Hate Smile," and "Save Your Savior" (gotta love
those song titles...)...
James
& Evander - Bummer Pop (CD, Velvet Blue Music, Pop)
This is a curiously-titled duo...considering the fact that neither musician
is named James nor Evander. This band is the Oakland, California-based
duo of Adam Myatt and Glenn Jackson. These guys started out
recording and releasing EPs a while back...but it wasn't until they added
their own vocals into the mix that things began to heat up. Bummer Pop
may be a bit misleading, as we can't imagine anyone would describe these
tunes as "bummer pop." This album features ten smart pensive pop
tunes laced with dreamy vocals, cool analog synths, and an overall laidback
vibe. The best word to describe these songs would probably be...dreamy.
There's a bit of a retro sound happening here but it is neither overt nor
obvious. This one's bound to catch on fast with folks into the 1980s revival...or
those who just want a nice solid dose of smart subdued modern pop music.
Cool tracks include "Ambigamy," "The Creative Process"
(our favorite), and "What Else Is New?"
Karina
ESP - Detachment (CD, Morctapes,
Experimental/instrumental/ambient)
Subtle drone-like compositions from Great Britain's Karina ESP, the
one man project created by Chris Gowers. These slow methodical pieces
are not meant for casual music fans. You won't find catchy beats, hummable
melodies, or anything of that sort here. The compositions on Detachment
are peculiar noise creations prepared with precise and exacting attention
to detail. Ambient music seems to either pull specific listeners in...or
scare everyone else away. Fortunately we're in the former category...so
we found these strangely hypnotic pieces to be quite beautiful and perplexing.
Five slow moving tracks here: "Distant Light (1)," "Disconnection,"
"All The Years Have Fallen Away," "Dislocation," and
"Slow Return." Very serious odd stuff...that will surely put you
in a trance-like state...
Dan
Kibler - Dan Kibler (CD, Kool Kat Musik, Pop)
Instantly familiar hummable guitar-driven pop from Dan Kibler. This
self-titled album is recommended for anyone out there who loves the sound
of great classic FM radio pop from the 1980s and 1990s. Dan Kibler
writes songs that you'll swear you've heard somewhere before...but they're
all brand new. These songs are so direct and catchy that spinning this album
is kinda like hearing a greatest hits compilation. This is Dan's debut for
the Kool Kat Musik label and it's certain to be welcomed by pop fans around
the world with open arms. The songwriting is top notch from start to finish
and Kibler has a voice that is perfectly suited for his brand of mid-tempo
melodic pop. We particularly dig the cool intertwined chiming guitars and
precise harmony vocals. This is a nice juicy slice of pure pop music presented
with style and conviction. Twelve modern classics here including "The
Misunderstood," "Broken Bent and Bound," "Is It True,"
and "Freak Day Comer." Top pick.
King
Kohn - Blackened Blissful Bloom (Independently
released CD, Acoustic death metal hippie folk rock)
We're going to admit right off the bat that we aren't quite sure what
to make of this album. But we finally decided we had to cover Blackened
Blissful Bloom for the pure and simple reason that the album doesn't
sound like anyone else that comes to mind. Austin's King Kohn is
mixing and merging a wide variety of styles here...and he himself describes
his music as "acoustic death metal hippie folk rock"...which should
give you a pretty good idea of what's going on here. The thing that really
stands out here are the vocals. Kohn has a really strange urgent
warbly voice that really stands out. You may love him or you may hate him..but
you probably won't be able to ignore King Kohn (!). Thirteen perplexing
cuts here including "Buzz Off To The Man," "Charity,"
"Living Alone," and "The Dying Game." Interesting.
Mina
Koo - Mina (Independently released CD,
Dance/pop)
Some of our readers may be surprised to see this included in this month's
reviews...mainly because we rarely receive dance/pop submission lately (?).
In the 1990s we were constantly bombarded with electronic dance albums.
But now for whatever reason we tend to receive more rock, pop, and experimental
music. In any event... We were pleased as punch to check out this punchy
upbeat collection of modern upbeat dance tracks from Mina Koo. Several
years back Mina's parents let her know in no uncertain terms that they did
not approve of her decision to pursue a career in music. But their opinion
has probably changed now as Koo ended up in the Musician's Institute in
Hollywood, California and has now released her debut EP Mina. These
tracks sound something like Madonna's 1990s albums except the vocals
are markedly different (Mina's cool Asian voice adds cool exotic flavors
to the mix). Eight provocative dance-inducing cuts here including "Suddenly,"
"Beautiful Thing," "Jini," and "Troubadours [Dance
Floors]." Good catchy upbeat stuff with a solid 4/4 beat.
Sunday
Lane - From Where You Are (Independently
released CD-R, Pop)
The debut full-length release from Sunday Lane. This up-and-coming
artist previously released an EP entitled Bring Me Sunshine which
was very well received. It didn't take long for two of Lane's songs to be
used on the television show One Tree Hill. Sunday may be young but
her songs are surprisingly mature and seasoned. She has a slightly warbly
voice that is a bit off the beaten path, but once you warm up to the sound
it becomes a plus. These songs are instantly accessible and have a great
amount of commercial potential...so it wouldn't surprise us in the least
if Sunday doesn't find herself playing in front of large audiences in the
very near future. Smooth thoughtful mid-tempo pop tracks include "Get
To You," "Let Me Go," "Us Against Them," and "Want
You Back."
Mykul
Lee - Fortress (Independently released
CD, Pop)
If there is one word we would use to describe this album...that word would
be hushed. Originally from Oklahoma, Mykul Lee moved to California
in 2003. The original idea was to get a music degree there but his desire
to devote his life to recording soon became the most important driving force.
Lee has made a name for himself in California mainly as a producer and backing
musician on other projects...but his real passion is most likely found in
his solo recordings. Fortress is an extremely subdued collection
of modern pop songs that feature introspective lyrics and reserved arrangements.
We used the word 'hushed' earlier because it describes Mykul's method of
singing. His vocals are extremely subtle...almost as if he's leaning over
whispering into the microphone. The strange vocals give these soft pop tracks
a different sort of flavor that is intriguing and different. Comparisons
have already (appropriately) been made to Elliot Smith. Ten nifty
reflective cuts here including "Crazy Like Me," "The Way
That You Move," "Hello Beautiful," and "No One Like
You."
Justin
Levinson and the Valcours - This Side Of
Me (Independently released CD, Pop)
For whatever reasons, we rarely hear music artists from Vermont. So we were
curious to hear Burlington, Vermont's Justin Levinson to get a taste
of what's happening lately in the state. This Side Of Me features
ten slickly produced pop tracks that are layered to perfection. The songs
deal with relationship issues for the most part, but some of the emotions
seem to be presented tongue-in-cheek. Levinson certainly knows how to write
memorable melodies that should appeal to a wide range of listeners. He's
got a silky smooth voice and his backing band (The Valcours) provide
a solid foundation for these upbeat tracks. Some of these tunes remind us
of Rick Springfield in the very early stages of his career (think
Beginnings and/or Comic Book Heroes). If you're looking for
odd artsy stuff you won't find it here. But if you're searching for good
solid melodic pop well...all of these tracks fit securely in that category.
Our favorite cuts include "Water Wears the Rock," "I'll Be
OK," Million Tears," and "If You're Happier."
Things that are alive
Aren't really
Alive.
Liminal Phase - LP (CD, Simon
Recordings, Instrumental/improvisational)
Hmmm...this is a different sort of album... This album features compositions
that teeter on the line that divides vintage jazz from progressive rock.
These cuts were recorded without overdubs...with much of the music being
spontaneously created on the spot. Liminal Phase is the Minneapolis-based
group comprised of deVon Gray (bassoon, flute, keyboards), Adam
Levy (guitars), Lisa Hirst-Carnes (oboe, harmonium), Joey
Van Phillips (drums), Dan Zamzow (cello), and Nathan Brende
(electronics). These folks recorded several hours' worth of material that
was then sorted through...with these eleven pieces being selected to be
on LP. Subtle, puzzling, intricate, and sometimes peculiar, these
compositions remind us of the soundtrack to an obscure foreign film we haven't
ever seen. Odd and strangely invited pieces include "Fanfare,"
"Etudes," "Loose Change," and "Cow Wing."
Interesting inspired music from a different sphere...
Ivy
Mairi - No Talker (CD, Latent
Recordings, Pop)
Provocative progressive pop with strange fragile qualities. Ivy Mairi
got an early start in the world of music and a really great break. At only
17 years of age she met Michael Timmons (of The Cowboy Junkies)
who became interested in her songs and began helping her record them. Timmons
then went on to produce her first album Well You. Now several years
later Mairi once again teamed up with Michael to record No Talker.
The thing that probably strikes most folks initially about this young lady's
music are the vocals. She has a strange warbly voice that is the immediate
focal point of her tunes. The songs merge elements from folk, progressive,
and pop into an interesting hodge podge that is somehow friendly and warm.
One thing is for certain. Ivy presents a different voice in the world of
music. Instead of following a particular sound or style, she seems to take
her own unique approach to songwriting. Ten credible well-crafted cuts here
including "Just Go," "Scar," "Passing Cars,"
and Wintry City."
Measure - The Air Inside Our Lungs (Independently released CD,
Pop)
Brooklyn's Measure started out as the duo of Laura DiStasi
and David Little. The two started making music together in 2008 and
released the Begin Again EP. Since that time their songs have popped
up on numerous television shows including Pretty Liars and Melrose
Place. In 2010 the band evolved into a quintet with the addition of
Woody Quinn, Tommy Harron, and Casey Tuck. About two
years were spent recording the tracks for this, the band's debut full-length
release. Unlike most recordings done over an extended period of time, these
compositions don't have a cluttered overworked sound and feel. Instead,
the exact opposite is true. The Air Inside Our Lungs has a
big sound with plenty of cool open space left between the instruments and
vocals. We're big fans of 'less is more'...so these cool breezy tunes come
across sounding refreshing and surprisingly spontaneous. DiStasi's vocals
are the obvious centerpiece here. She's got a cool breathy voice and she
never sounds forced or fakey. Nice dreamy tracks include "Somewhere
Outside," "Other Plans," and "Make You Love Me."
Mission
of Burma - Unsound (CD, Fire, Pop)
The guys in Mission of Burma made a big splash among underground
music fans from 1979 to 1983. Nearly two decades later (in 2002) they decided
to reform and continue. Unsound is the band's fifth full-length release...and
it's a peculiar one. These songs have strange discordant qualities and a
slightly harsh sound. Because each song seems to sound quite different from
the last, it is difficult to compare these songs to other artists. At this
point in time that's really saying something, of course (!). One thing is
certain...these guys have not sold out or changed their sound in
order to gain wider acceptance. Eleven well-crafted underground rockers
here including "Dust Devil," "This Is Hi-Fi," "ADD
In Unison," and "What They Tell Me."
Kalen
Nash - Ukred (CD, Normaltown,
Pop)
The first track on this album ("Don't You Love Me Baby") was a
kinda strange way to kick off this album...because our initial impression
was that Athens, Georgia's Kalen Nash was going to be a rough and
unpolished home recording artist. But as soon as "White Oak" began
we realized there was a lot more here than what initially meets the ears.
After spinning Ukred we went to Nash's web site to find out a bit
more about him but found nothing other than a few facts about shows and
music releases. We like that. In cases like this, the artist doesn't really
need to spill all kinds of personal details. That can wait until there are
larger numbers of drooling fans demanding stupid facts. Kalen writes really
smooth memorable songs that probably fit best in the singer/songwriter category.
His songs focus first and foremost on vocal melodies and lyrics. And he
comes up with plenty of cool, personal, warm compositions here. If we hadn't
seen the packaging first we would've guessed this had been released on Canada's
cool You've Changed Records label. Ten smart reflective tunes here including
"White Oak," "To Be," "The Uno," and "Where
Are You." This guy's got a great voice and his songs all hit the mark.
Top pick.
Add chemicals
To organic
Things.
All the
Other kids at school are
Stupid.
Picture
The Ocean - Picture The Ocean (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Pure melodic upbeat guitar-driven pop music played with style and passion.
Canada's Picture The Ocean is the trio comprised of Jesse Dee,
Jacquie B, and Matt Blackie. These folks write and record
cool mid-tempo classic pop tunes that should appeal to a wide range of listeners.
These recordings have a nice open sound that is uncluttered and direct which
allows you to focus on the wonderfully precise vocal harmonies. If you dig
great classic guitar pop from the late 1980s and 1990s you will find a lot
to love here. This may be a bit too safe and slick for some underground
snobs...but fans wanting positive pure pop are gonna really go for this
one. Ten well-crafted cuts here including "Erehwon," "Wake
Me Up," "Scars," and "The Storm."
Martin
Schlumpf - Summer Circle (CD, Navona, Instrumental/classical/chamber
music)
Intriguing music with a cool spontaneous feel. Summer Circle is divided
into three sections: "December Rains for Solo Piano," "Clarinet
Trio for Clarinet, Cello, and Piano," and "Summer Circle for String
Quartet." According to the press release Martin Schlumpf "...presents
expressive, complex, and rhythmically thrilling chamber pieces that marry
the sophisticated intricacies of jazz with the studied nuance of modern
classical" (couldn't have said it better ourselves). This may
be a bit on the peculiar side for folks who only appreciate the more smooth
side classical. Schlumpf's compositions are unpredictable, peculiar, and
infused with a curious nervous energy that is inviting and somewhat strange.
We totally dig the more challenging side of classical...so this album immediately
grabbed and our attention and held us spellbound from start to finish. We
weren't going to say this but... With a name like Martin Schlumpf it has
to be good. [With apologies to the artist, record label, and publicists
for the cheap shot at humor...] More way cool stuff from the always
provocative and challenging Navona label. TOP PICK.
The
Shrouded Strangers - Lost Forever (CD,
Iniz, Rock/pop)
The Shrouded Strangers is the duo of Aaron Carlson and Mike
Scutari...two guys who started making music together in Harrisonburg,
Virginia in 1999 (their debut album was entitled Yes, We Are The Shrouded
Strangers). Shortly afterward both got sidetracked with other ventures
and projects and the band was shelved for several years. Switch to 2008...and
the pair are at it again (now in Oakland, California), releasing the Live!
In Bedlam Towers EP and even doing some touring. Things went so well
that Carlson and Scutari decided to continue forging ahead. Lost Forever
has all the ingredients you would expect from recordings made for pure entertainment
value. There are plenty of rough edges here and that's what gives the music
a good solid slant. Instead of tweaking things to perfection, things are
left purposely somewhat sloppy and haphazard. Eleven slightly crazy cuts
here including "Late Bloomer," "Oilheart," "Waltz
Into Silver," and "Days Of Glass." Interesting heady stuff...
Teachers
Are pathetic
Creatures.
Tidelands - We've Got A Map (Independently released CD, Pop)
The second full-length release from San Francisco, California's Tidelands...the
duo comprised of Gabriel Leis and Mie Araki. The pair released
their debut album (If...) in 2011. Since that time they've lightened
their sound and now have a more spontaneous approach to music. We've
Got A Map is a super smooth spin, full of hummable mid-tempo pop tunes
presented simply and without unnecessary fanfare. These songs won't clobber
you on the head on the first spin...they're not the sort of thing that immediately
grabs your attention. But with a bit of patience listeners will probably
find (like we did)...that these tracks sound better with each repeated spin.
Eight well-crafted tunes here including "Coil," "Sexy Fox,"
"Japan," and "Half A Century." Really beautiful artwork
on the cardboard foldout sleeve...
Trysette - Here On In (CD, GJ
Tunes, Pop)
Australia's Trysette has a sound that should appeal to a wide audience.
True to the claim of the press release that accompanied this disc, the songs
are reminiscent of artists like Norah Jones, India Arie, and
Jack Johnson. The soft pop tunes on Here On In are driven
by acoustic guitars and Trysette's calm breathy vocals. Ten smooth commercial
tracks here including "'Cause You're Mine," "The Right Thing,"
"Moonlight Kisses," and "Just A Fantasy." Trysette will
be touring the United States this year to promote the album...
Jess
Turner - Jess Turner (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Slick pop has become burdened with a really bad reputation in the twenty-first
century...and for good reason. There's so much super slick phony pop being
foisted on the public that it becomes very easy to just block it ALL out
because 99% of it SUCKS. Well, as all good listeners know (at least those
who are actually paying attention)...there are exceptions to every rule.
And Jess Turner is obviously one such exception. In fact, you might
even say say she's exceptional. Sure, this self-titled debut album
is a really slick affair...and Turner is obviously playing music that has
the potential to appeal to a large audience. But unlike other trashy schmaltzy
pop artists out there her music is very genuine and real. We have to admit
that this album is probably too safe and familiar for folks wanting really
far out music and harsh loud stuff. But that's not the audience Jess is
playing for anyway. Her songs are beautifully crafted and she has a truly
lovely voice. Ten modern classics here including "Shakespeare,"
"Drown In His River," "Broken Highway" (really beautiful
melody here), and "Dust Angels." House in a really cool tri-fold
digipak sleeve complete with nifty lyric booklet...
Woodpecker - Thanks Anyway (Independently released CD, Pop)
The story of the band Woodpecker and how they came to be differs
substantially from the standard story. The band originally got together
about ten years ago to record the score for a short film. They were initially
recording bluegrass covers of punk and hip hop songs. But things change
as they always do...and years later they found themselves turning to a more
credible and tangible sound. Things properly congealed in 2008 as the band
released their debut full-length release (the curiously titled F-Hole)
which received quite a bit of praise and notoriety. The band's second full-length
picks up where F-Hole left off. Leader Josh Steinbauer's songs
are increasingly focused and fine-tuned...with lyrics that generally tend
to tell stories. The songs on Thanks Anyway have a nice free-flowing
sound that is friendly and sincere. These tracks utilize mainly traditional
instruments and have an updated classic sound that should please a wide
range of listeners. Eleven intriguing tunes here including "Every Boy
in NY," "Married to the Movies," "Scabble Travel Set,"
and "Black Lodge."
Roy
Young - Rock 'Em Young: 1959-1962 Complete
Singles Collection (CD, Angel
Air, Pop)
The folks at Great Britain's Angel Air label dig deeper into the vaults
this time...coming up with this amazing complete collection of early singles
by pop/rock icon Roy Young. The label released an excellent double
disc set in 2009 called The Best Of 50 Years that was welcomed with
open arms by fans and music historians. Rock 'Em Young collects all
of Young's early singles and adds three live tracks ("Keep A Knocking,"
"Margie," "Rip It Up") recorded at the Star Club in
Germany in 1962. Although it's been said many times before, Roy is probably
best known as the guy that Brian Epstein asked to join The Beatles
way back when. But he's also well-known for having toured and recorded with
classic artists like Chuck Berry, Jeff Beck, Deep Purple, Eric Clapton,
and Gene Vincent. Young has influenced countless other musicians
and artists over the years...and after hearing this you'll know why.
Classic rip roarin' cuts include "She Said Yeah," "I Go Ape,"
"Hey Little Girl," "Late Last Evening," and "Big
Fat Mama." Totally rockin' stuff... TOP PICK.
A
Abundance - Manner effect
Jason Adamo Band - Bricks & mortar
A Dangerous Method - Original motion picture soundtrack
Age/Sex/Occupation - This side of the fence
Miguel Algarin / Albey Balgochian - Soul to sol
All The Right Moves - The monster I've become
Amenities Package - Out of phase
American Revolution - Buddha electrostorm
A Midsummer Night's Dream - The winter's tale
Ammo Without A Gun - Ammo Without A Gun
Answers To Nothing - Original motion picture soundtrack: Music by Craig
Richey
Richard Anthony - Love is the power
Auburn - Indian summer
Danielle Aument - Songs for you
Authorities - King pao au go-go
Avengers - Avengers
Axel's Axiom - Uncommon sense
Azud - Mrindle
B
Backwords - By the neck
Dave Ball - Don't forget your alligator
Bill Barner - Ten tunes
Bonnie Barnett Group - In between dreams
Ivan "Funkboy" Bodley - Look at that cookie
Alisa Boniello - Lovestruck
Anna Borges & Bill Ward - Receita de samba
Francis Bowie - Francis Bowie
Crystal Bright & The Silver Hands - Muses and bones
Bucket Boys - Leavin'
Burning River Gamblers - Burning River Gamblers
Adam Burrows - Tall tales
C
David Caceres - David Caceres
Caltrop - Ten million years and eight minutes
Campbell Apartment - In
Tim Carey - Room 114
George Carill - Relevant
Carter Calvert - And the Roger Cohen Trio
Jeff Campbell - Stop and go
Guy Capecelatro III - North for the winter
Casa De Mi Padre - Original motion picture soundtrack
Case Theory - Cinematic
Susan Cattaneo - Little big sky
Celeste - Ready to fly
Sergio Cervetti - Nazca and other works
Cheers Elephant - Like wind blows fire
Chief Fuzzer - Transcendental road blues
Churchwood - Just the two of us
Citadel Besieged - The winter of evermore
Dawnya Clarine - Walking on water
Coke Weed - Nice dreams
Phil Collins - Live at montreaux 2004
Comanchero - The undeserved
Dylan Connor - Primitive times
Copernicus - Live! In Prague
Copernicus - Victim of the sky
Copper Gamins - EP
Corduroy Road - Two step silhouette
Cornflower Blue - Run down the rails
Chris Cortez - Aunt nasty
Crooked Saint - Sweating bullets
D
Trent Dabbs and Amy Stroup - Sugar + The Hi-lows
Peter Daltrey - King of thieves: The best of Pter Daltrey Volume 2
Dare Dukes + The Blackstock Collection - Thugs and china dolls
Darkest Hour - Original motion picture soundtrack: Score by Tyler Bates
Danny Darts - American songwriter
Ryan Davidson Trio - Ryan Davidson Trio
Dawns - Limited EP
Days of Grace - Original motion picture soundtrack
Dead Rat Orchestra - The guga hunters of ness
Deep Purple - With orchestra: Live at montreux 2011
Deep Purple - Total abandon Australia '99
Delta Moon - Black cat oil
Xander Demos - Guitarcadia
Jon DeRosa - Anchored EP
Jon DeRosa - A wolf in preacher's clothes
The Descendants - Music from the motion picture
Tony Desimone - The second time around
Disseriph - Disseriph
Donna and Doug - Take the day off
Doors - Mr. mojo risin': The story of l.a. woman
Drowned In Meaning - Drowned In Meaning
Drunken Prayer - Into the missionfield
John Du Cann - The many sides of 1967 - 1980
Dumb Blonde - Miss guy
Xenia Dunford and the Eastern Exile - Lonely streets
E
Earps - A tribute to Buck Owens: Buckle up!
Yelena Eckemoff - Forget me not
Electrik Emily - Radio active
Electrik Emily - Stiletto rock
Elika - Always the light
Annalise Emerick - Starry-eyed
Empire Escorts - Empire Escorts
Engloria - Drive EP
EWW Yaboo - So many of the kids b/w Make it fast
Adam Ezra Group - Ragtop angel
F
Finding Clyde - Sacrifice it all
Tim Foljahn - Songs for an age of extinction
Forbidden Dimension - The golden age of lasers
Foreigner - Alive & rockin'
Forever Her Nighitmare - The rebirth
Bill Fox - One thought revealed
Frank - Here together
Ian Franklin and Infinite Frequency - Breaking grounds
Frequency - Frequency
Furious Seasons - My analog face
G
Peter Gabriel - Live blood
Will Galison - Line open
Jose Garcia - Songs for a lifetime
Jackson Garrett - Let sleeping dogs lie
Steve Gates - A bee in her mouth
Gazpacho - March of ghosts
Robin George & Vix - You
Jenny Gillespie - Belita
Grannies Club - Wait & see
Gone - Original motion picture soundtrack
Ash Gray and the Girls - Born in the summer
Nathan Griffin - Nathan Griffin
Katie Guthorn - Why not smile?
Guzzer - Who hit the guzzer
H
Habit - Lincoln has won
Hard stuff - Bolex dementia
Hard stuff - Bulletproof
Sylvia Herold and the Rhythm Bugs - The spider and the fly
Harris Group - Choices
Gavin Harrison & Osric - The man who sold himself
Josh Harty - Nowhere
Jason Heath and the Greedy Souls - Packed for exile
Hillbily Vegas - Ringo manor
Homespun Remedies - Great depression
Penelope Houston - On market street
Russell Howard - Cityheart
Hully Blower - Hully dulls the blower
Huxter - #2
I
Illdotlogic - Dreams in stereo
Illness - A monument to our gilded age
I Melt With You - Original motion picture soundtrack
Inner Flame - A tribute to Rainer Ptacek
Insects of the Underground - Mind matter
Iron Lady - Music from the motion picture
Iveys - Days & nights
J
Jackity Jack Jack - Jackity all the way home
Olivier Jarda - Good luck cartel
Jack Jeffery - The constant that remains
Karen Johns & Company - Peach
Justin Jude - 5 kinds of rain
Mike June - Exile on wilson street
K
Kaaa - A is for zebra
Naama Kates - The unexamined life
Dave Keener - The easy way
Art Kenyon - Art Kenyon
Kid Savant - Drop it on the stereo
Kevn Kinney - A good country mile
Susan Krebs Band - Everything must change
L
Josh Levinson Sextet - Chauncey street
Leslie Lewis - Midnight sun
Light - 1102/2011
Light the Black Skye - Looking out looking in
Little, Big - Pins and narwhals
Longreef - Dirty motel
Loop 2.4.3 - American dreamland
Lost Lovers Brigade - Skeletons
Jessica Lynne - Spiritual cowgirl
M
Manooghi Hi - Silence
Lisa Marie - Summertime jazz
McCormick Percussion Group - Concerti for strings with
Memorials - Delirium
Mommyheads - Vulnerable boy
Money In The Banana Stand - Giant steps II
Monks of Mellonwah - Neurogenesis
More Music From - The Rum Diary
Morning Set - Morning Set
Ken Will Morton - Contenders
Mr. Meaner - Drinking again
MSB Family Band - MSB Family Band record
Maria Muldaur - Christmas at the oasis: Live at the rrazz room
Putnam Murdock - Brand new widow
Dale Murray - Dream mountain dream
MW Ensemble - MW Ensemble
My Furious Frenzy - Venus on fire
N
Arthur Nasson - West cambridge cowboys
Nearly Beloved - Where's bob
Lukas Nelson - Wasted
Willie Nelson - Remember Me Vol. 1
Thea Neumann - Lady and the tramps
David Newberry - No one will remember you
Nfected - Karate style 2
Night Genes - Like the blood
Nobox - Hollywood is on fire
No End Of Now - Some music we made
O
Old Time Machine / Old Cabin - Split EP
Old Time Machine - Old Time Machine
Oliver Dawson Saxon - Motorbiker
Once: A New Musical - Original broadway cast recording
Oooooooo - Looooooo
Open Hand - Mark of the demon
Ryan David Orr - Mordred the quarter known
Our Lives - Out of place
P
Painted Blind - Painted Blind
Papa Juke - Out of the blues
Pariah - Original motion picture soundtrack
Petunia & The Vipers - Petunia & The Vipers
Sal Piamonte - Lives in devil city
Plastic Arts - Academy clonez
Vajra Pleroma - Vajra Pleroma
Poor Young Things - Let it sleep
Porter Draw - California widow
Pow Wow Now - Let's have a pow wow now
Doug Prescott - The journey and the deep blue sea
Projection - While you were out
Pz - Pz 4 Pz
Q
R
Rags & Ribbons - The glass masses
Leandra Ramm - One night with you
Davide Ramos - Sento la tua mancanza
Ray Mann Three - Sketches vol. 1
Reach Around Rodeo Clowns - Dark days dark nights
Reanimation - Giants hide among us
Red Jasper - Sting in the tale
Red Moon Road - Red Moon Road
Red Wanting Blue - From the vanishing point
Kate Reid - The love I'm in
Riddle the Sphinx - Professional pretender
Donald Ridings - From the wild EP
Rivethead - Doomsday for optimism
Rockabye Baby! - Lullaby renditions of Depeche Mode
Rockabye Baby! - Lullaby renditions of The Smiths
Rockdoves - From the birds
Riff Rockit - Riff Rockit
Jeff Root - Fossil rock
Walter Rose - Cast your stone
Alan Rosenthal - Just sayin'
Rubblebucket - Live in chicago
Rum Diary - Original motion picture soundtrack: Music by Christopher Young
S
17 Pygmies - CIII: Even Celestina gets the blues
65's - Strike hard!
Sad Little Men - I'll be the octopus
Rachael Sage - Haunted by you
San Francisco Music Club - Love & freedom
Amy Saraiya & The Outcome - Soundproof box
Satin Chaps - Might i suggest
Satin Hearts - Living in overdrive
Eric Schackne - Hammers & strings
Kenny Selcer - Don't forget about me
Senayit - Of body
Sophia Serghi - Night of light
Sexy Accident - You're not alone
Sexy Accident - Ninja ninja fight darth vader
Nathan Shaffer - Come bcak america
Nick Simper / Nasty Habits - Live at Scene Vienna
Lorrie Singer & Bradley Kopp - A deep oasis
Andrew Sisk - Treelines
Shevy Smith - Ad astra
Maya Solovey - Forte
Sonali - Speechless
Sonolumina - Sonolumina
Charlene Soraia - Moonchild
Stanleys - Always
Starlings, TN - Heartache in 4/4 time
Steel Chops - Steel Chops
Stolen Rhodes - Falling off the edge
Sunspot - The slingshot effect
Dan Susnara - Prison sanctuary open field...prison
Sweet Interference - The falling in and out
T
Lynn Taylor - Barfly
Jesse Terry - Empty seat on a plane
Thieving Irons - Behold, this dreamer!
Kevin M. Thomas - Intensify
Tiger! Tiger! - Cut them where they bleed
Tohpati Bertiga - Riot
Total Babes - Swimming through sunlight
Transformers: Prime - Music from the animatd series
Tunnel Trees - Cuppa joe
Twin Trip - II
U
Ultra Sex Laser - Christmas!
Ultra Sex Laser - The lego EP
Ultra Sex Laser - Greatest hits
V
Naga Valli - Eastern soul
Various Artists - Communicating Vessels - 7-inch series Vol. 1
Various Artists - Sample this: Saustex 2012 sampler
Vassy - Beautiful day
Logan Venderlic - Logan Venderlic
Videoing - Reader LP
Video Love - Mon ange
Frank Viele - Acoustic vudu
Gordon Vincent - Mechanical breakdown
W
Nic Walker - Owls in the dump gift shop
Joanna Weinberg - The piano diaries
Whitelake - Enter the haggis
Why I Must Be Careful - Honeycomb
Bradley Wik and the Charlatans - Burn what you can, bury the rest...
Cole Williams - Out of the basement, out of the box
Chris Willis - Premium / Songs from the love ship v. 1
Jack Wilson - Jack Wilson
Wind Up Radio Sessions - Bird eyes
Wishes and Thieves - Forest fire EP
Tommy Womack - Now what!
Wrinkle Neck Mules - Apprentice to ghosts
Dustry Wright - If we never...
X
Y
YellowTieGuy - Joy in the mourning
Y La Bamba - Court the storm
Benjamin Yusupov's Viola Concerto - Tango rock concerto
Z
Gina Zavalis
Martin Zellar - The hardways
Zero The Antistar - The broken electric lullaby
