April 2014 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews
from 
aka 
After The Dark - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Nicholas
O'Toole and Jonathan Davis (CD, Varese
Sarabande, Soundtrack)
The film After The Dark (also known as The Philosophers) tells
the story of a philosophy teacher who challenges his students to determine
which ten (out of twenty) would be best suited to take shelter underground
so that they could later restart the human race. An interesting heavy topic
for a film to be certain...and the music mirrors the weighty subject matter.
The original score for the film was written by Nicholas O'Toole (who
also created music for the films Nothing Left To Fear and How
To Be A Serial Killer) and Jonathan Davis (who is best known
as the vocalist and bagpipe player in the band Korn). Plus some additional
music was created by Glen Phillips (who is in the band Toad The
Wet Sprocket). This thirty-one track album features music that steps
beyond what one normally hears in film soundtracks. Some of the compositions
have an ambient feel while others tread into moody technological territory.
Threads of darkness are woven into these tracks, giving them a somewhat
foreboding sound and feel. This could easily be appreciated by folks who
enjoy the film as well as anyone who loves modern mood music. Slightly creepy
and surreal at times.
Takeshi
Asai - French Trio, Vol. 1 (CD, De
Trois Cities, Jazz)
New York City's Takeshi Asai is a very busy, productive, focused
man these days. He has been presenting his unique style of jazz piano to
the world for many years and has gained quite a bit of critical acclaim
along the way. In 2013 Asai assembled his French Trio that (in addition
to himself) includes Pascal Combeau on bass and Maxime Legrand
on drums. Asai has a wonderfully fluid sound on the keys that is sometimes
reminiscent of babysue favorite Vince Guaraldi. Unlike most
modern day musicians, Takeshi keeps things simple...always managing to get
the most out of his well-chosen notes. Or in other words...you won't hear
any of the usual overplaying here. This is the first album from Asai's new
trio and it's bound to please his fans as well as bring in legions more.
Eight captivating cuts here that are relaxing, inventive, and ultimately
quite infectious. Our favorite tracks include "A Beginning," "I
Remember The Castle," and "Fleurette."
Auburn - Nashville (Independently released CD, Pop)
After a ten year hiatus, the folks in the band Auburn got back together
in 2011 and have once again been captivating audiences with their interesting
brand of moody pop. The band's sound is driven by the intriguing vocal talents
of Liz Lenten, who has an unusual warbly vocal style that truly sets
her apart from others. Liz and her bandmates are off and running this time
around. Just before releasing Nashville (which, by the way, was recorded
in Nashville) the band opened up for Jefferson Starship on their
recent tour of the United Kingdom. Folks in the United States should be
immediately drawn to these tracks. The songs have a sound that incorporates
elements of Americana, folk, and blues...all swirled up together in a strangely
inviting mix that is simultaneously familiar sounding and unique. Twelve
well-crafted cuts here including "Sitia Bay," "Hurting,"
"I Would Fall Down," and "I'm Lost."
Everyone is in a band
And they all sound
The same.
Suzie
Brown - Almost There (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Nashville, Tennessee's Suzie Brown may not be a professional musician
yet...but she's already a professional..doctor (!). Yup, Ms. Brown
is a Harvard-trained cardiologist who writes, records, and performs music
on the side. Produced by Oliver Wood (of The Wood Brothers)
and recorded in just seven days, Almost There is a smooth and resilient
collection of mid-tempo pop tracks just brimming over with sincerity and
cool melodies. Nashville sure does have its share of processed cheese artists
these days, many of whom sound like carbon copies of one another. Ms. Brown
is in a different league because she concentrates on melodies and lyrics.
These songs sound very much like real musicians playing real music rather
than digital tracks that have been tweaked to perfection. Suzie's got a
great subdued soulful voice that comes across strong. Her words and messages
are positive, and the overall vibe here is upbeat and effective. Eleven
cool cuts including "Almost There," "Our Own Little Show,"
"Everywhere I Go," and "Space Between."
Dewa
Budjana with Jimmy Johnson and Vinnie Colaiuta
- Surya Namaskar (CD, Moonjune,
Progressive jazz)
The seventh album from Indonesia's Dewa Budjana. If you've never
heard this guy's fingers streaming up and down the guitar, you're in for
a treat. Budjana is one of those musicians out there who actually becomes
one with his instrument. When you hear him play, you can tell the guy
goes into some kind of stream-of-consciousness mode where the notes come
from some other universe. Backing Dewa on this album are Jimmy Johnson
on bass guitar and Vinnie Colaiuta on drums...as well as a few other
friends lending their talents. Budjana has already proven in the past that
he is one of the guitar greats of the twenty-first century. Here he continues
to solidify his position in the world of music. Eight mentally challenging
cuts including "Fifty," "Kalingga," "Surya Namaskar,"
and "Damel Waterenggong."
Kate
Bush (Artist)
Interesting how things seem to happen at the most curious moments. Just
about a month ago we were browsing through the cheapie bins (one of our
favorite activities...second to yard sailing) and came across a copy of
Kate Bush's 50 Words For Snow album for a dollar. Released
in 2011, we weren't even aware of the fact that Kate had released anything
since Aerial and Director's Cut. We bought the disc, of course,
and we weren't too surprised to discover how different it is from everything
else happening in the world of music. Ms. Bush is no longer interested in
recording pop music, instead opting to record pensive moody pieces that
can be listened to on a variety of different levels. Snow is a curious
spin to be sure. But it almost prompted us to go back in time and listen
to some of Kate's earlier music and watch some of her earlier videos. Wow.
We've known for a very long time that Ms. Bush is probably the most single
influential woman in the world of music. And that could never ever
be more obvious than it is now. So we then set about turning other friends
onto Ms. Bush, starting with The Kick Inside so that they wouldn't
be frightened off by some of the more bizarre and intense stuff that came
later. So anyway...for a few weeks we were riding high on our rediscovery
of Ms. Bush's greatest recordings (her first four albums)...when out of
the blue we heard that she will be touring England this year (her first
tour in 35 years). Double wow. We couldn't be more surprised.
The great news is that the buzz surrounding these shows is already swelling
to gigantic levels. Kate has apparently been happy to stay out of the spotlight
over the past few years. We can certainly appreciate that. But we also sure
as heck appreciate the fact that she has chosen to once again play live
for all the thousands upon thousands of folks who see her as one of the
most incredible musical artists of all time. So...this review is
a review of the artist herself...a woman with integrity...guts...skill..a
truly amazing voice...and precise views and morals of herself and the world.
There are few artists we admire as much as this incredibly gifted lady.
Anything/everything Ms. Bush does is highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Michael
G. Cunningham - Sonic Flight (CD, Navona, Classical)
We've mentioned this before but because many may still not be aware of it,
we want to remind listeners that the Navona and Ravello labels are providing
a great service in the world of music. Like most pop music fans who only
want to hear well-known bands like The Beatles, most classical music
fans only want to hear the same old great masters from the past like Bach
and Beethoven. We love the well-known bands and composers from the
past, no doubt...so we're not trying to slam them here. But unfortunately
the emphasis on the same old well-known artists means that present day composers
often get overlooked or ignored. The Navona and Ravello labels are shedding
light on the wealth of great present day classical composers...a group of
people who tirelessly work at their craft and are usually never properly
rewarded for all their hard work. Born in 1937, Michael G. Cunningham
has music degrees from Wayne State University, the University of Michigan,
and Indiana University. He is now a composer and author whose music and
books are highly regarded among classical music aficionados. This 2014 reissue
of Cunningham's Sonic Flight album features six smooth and compelling
compositions: "Violin Concerto," "Dialogue for Orchestra
and Wind Trio," "Diaphony For Orchestra and Wind Trio," "Wakefield
Autumn," "Kaleidoscope," and "Venus & Adonis."
If you think all the great classical composers were born hundreds of years
ago, think again. Modern day composers like Michael G. Cunningham are living
proof that classical music is indeed alive and well in 2014.
Douglas
Detrick's AnyWhen Ensemble - The Bright
And Rushing World (CD, Navona,
Classical)
If you're a member of the club who thinks that all trumpets sound the same,
think again. Although they're often used as blaring instruments, Douglas
Detrick proves that the instrument can be played in more subtle, moody
ways. His AnyWhen Ensemble is comprised of Hashem Assadullahi
on alto and soprano saxophone, Shirley Hunt on cello, Steve Vacchi
on bassoon, and Ryan Biesack on drums. Commissioned by Chamber Music
America, The Bright and Rushing World suite is presented in ten movements.
According to the press release that accompanied this album, the music was
inspired by artists like Duke Ellington, Gil Evans, Benjamin Britten,
and Igor Stravinsky. Listeners will hear tidbits of all of these
artists and more on these smooth and sometimes perplexing compositions.
The versatility of the players here is hypnotic and intriguing. Compelling
tracks include "The Door Is Open," "You Never Thought To
Give A Name," and "On The Wind Of His Leaving."
Our differences
Don't mean
Anything.
Frances
England - Paths We Have Worn (Independently
released CD, Modern folky pop)
San Francisco's Frances England writes and records pensive modern
folky pop that reminds us very much of babysue favorite Linda
Draper. So if you're a fan of Ms. Draper's music it is very likely you
will also appreciate the cool subdued sound of Ms. England's music. This
young lady's career had an interesting beginning--she originally wrote and
recorded children's music (her first album was a home recording made to
raise funds for her son's school). Word soon spread about her talents and
before she knew it Frances was playing Lollapalooza and Austin
City Limits. Considering how she began, it's interesting how mature
the songs on Paths We Have Worn are. The album features keen observations
on life and people and is decidedly optimistic. England's vocals are fragile
but focused, and her songs feature nice sparse arrangements that allow the
listener to focus on the lyrics and vocal melodies. Eleven strangely hypnotic
folky pop tracks here including "Fall Out of the Sky," "Good
Friends," and "Light Brings Color."
The
Forty Nineteens - Spin It (CD, Heyday
/ Rock Ranch, Pop/rock)
Short and sweet. This Detroit-based band plays catchy guitar driven pop/rock
that could easily appeal to millions. The guys in The Forty Nineteens
offer punchy music that fits somewhere in that territory in between Elvis
Costello and The Replacements. The band is comprised of John
Pozza (vocals, bass), Chuck Gorian (guitar), Chris Whelton
(guitar), and Nick Zeigler (drums, vocals). This is a short little
album that clocks in at just over twenty-three minutes. But in that amount
of time these guys more than make their point. Cool rhythm-driven cuts include
"Falling Down," "Pink '55 Bel Air," and "Dead Flowers."
Good solid stuff delivered straight from the hip.
From
Hell - Ascent From Hell (CD, Scourge, Heavy metal)
The press release that accompanied this album describes the band as "a
new horror concept heavy metal band." This is an all-star band
made up of members of other bands. From Hell is comprised of Paul
Bostaph on drums (Slayer), Damien Sisson on bass (Death
Angel), Steve Smyth on lead guitar (Nevermore, Testament,
One Machine), and George Anderson on lead guitars and vocals
(Down Factor). If you've heard any of these guys' other bands you
probably have a good idea of what to expect here. The tracks on Ascent
From Hell are super hard and loud and feature pummeling rhythms and
vocals that sound as if they came straight out of Hell. These guys are playing
for a very specific audience...that segment of the population that gets
off on loud, angry, frenzied heavy/death metal played at high volume. Ten
intense tracks here including "Standing At The Mouth Of Hell,"
"Eyes Of My Dead," and "Ascent From Hell." Reminiscent
of the 1990s when bands were really pushing the boundaries of what metal
could and should sound like...
Glass
Wands - Glass Wands (CD, Esperanza Plantation, Instrumental)
Glass Wands is the new instrumental project created by Brooks
Tipton. Before starting this band, Tipton played keyboards in the bands
Secret Sisters, Colour Revolt, Thursday, Unwed Sailor, and Bear
Colony. After serving as a backing musician in so many other bands,
our guess is that Brooks was probably bursting at the seams to create his
own project. This self-titled album is a wonderfully satisfying debut. Brooks'
songs are subtle and soothing, somewhat dreamy, and ultimately quite melodic.
These songs don't sound very much like any other bands we've heard of late
and that is, of course, quite a feat in and of itself. These compositions
set a definite mood so...if you need some cool reflective music for that
perfect evening, this could be the perfect choice. Thirteen
tracks that clock in at just under forty-four minutes. Precisely executed
cuts include "Silverleaf," "Anchor," "Black Pond,"
"We Were Fine," and "Figures."
Kim
Harris - Only The Mighty (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The world is chock full of so many talented people...most of whom will never
receive the recognition or success that they deserve. Canada's Kim Harris
is yet another remarkable up-and-coming singer/songwriter whose music
could easily catch on with millions of listeners. This would already be
a stunning and impressive collection of tunes. But it is even more so
when you consider the fact that this is Kim's debut album. What a
debut. While the songs on Only The Mighty might remind listeners
of a host of other modern classic singer/songwriters, there's heart and
soul here that is sadly missing in the content provided by most artists.
And in terms of lyrics, Harris is truly exceptional. To quote directly from
the press release about the album title Kim says, "The Mighty are
the smallest parts of ourselves, as strong as diamonds, that show themselves
when they are needed most." The vocals here are way, way, way
beyond what we normally hear. This young lady sings in such a way that you
actually believe the words she sings. Ten lovely cuts including "In
The Woods," "Poet Hearts," "Parliaments," and "Feast
For The Mighty." This young artist is clearly starting out on the right
path by doing everything...right. Top pick.
Honeyblood - Live performance, March 11, 2014 at Rhythm
& Brews, Chattanooga, TN
Honeyblood is the duo of Stina Tweeddale (vocals, guitar)
and Shona McViccar (vocals, drums). These two talented ladies have
quickly become quite popular with the hipster circuit in their hometown
of Glasgow, Scotland. Stina and Shona have just recorded their first self-titled
album which is being released this spring on Great Britain's FatCat label. The album features slightly
grungy modern pop with a heavy emphasis on melodies and lyrics. In advance
of the album's release, the band toured the United States to give folks
here a sample of what they're all about. Their show at Rhythm & Brews
(which is certainly one of THE best clubs in the city) featured the band
playing on the last night of their tour. Honeyblood was the opening act
for the band We Were
Promised Jetpacks who are also from Scotland. We wish we had been
able to stay for their show but other commitment prevented this from happening.
Opening up for a band on a Tuesday night isn't the easiest thing for any
band. But on this particular evening Tweeddale and McViccar seemed to magically
keep an audience entertained with their instantly friendly brand of fuzzy
guitar pop. Playing nothing but an electric guitar and a drum set, the sound
was amazingly full. They certainly did not need any backing musicians. Tweeddale
was dressed in black while McViccar was wearing a white t-shirt...both of
which seemed appropriate for their direct stripped down musical approach.
The two played most of the songs from the new album, all of which seemed
to appeal to the audience that continued to grow during the concert. After
getting past the first few songs Stina and Shona started chatting with the
crowd which certainly helped to draw listeners into their musical world.
For us, the highlight of the show was hearing "Super Rat," a tune
that--in a perfect world--would already be an underground hit. Other standout
performances included cool rendition of "Fall Forever" (another
great tune) and "Bud." These two ladies were totally in synch
with one another during the entire show. The drumming was totally infectious
and the vocals were right on target. The band didn't have any copies of
their new album on hand. But if they had...they would have sold several
because the audience was obviously in love. Watch for big things in the
very near future from these talented young ladies. They're on the verge
of taking off. If you like getting in on the ground floor of something special,
you will definitely want to check out Honeyblood. Way cool.
JIP - Last Call (Independently released CD, Rock)
If you loved alternative rock bands from the 1990s you're likely to get
a major charge out of the tracks on Last Call. On this album the
guys in JIP play straight from the hip using only the basic ingredients.
The band is comprised of Jim Gwynn (vocals, guitar), Spencer Watson
(guitar, vocals), and Mike Charbonneau (drums, percussion, vocals)
with Andy Gerber on bass and additional lead guitar. Last Call
presents thirteen cool rockers that feature driving rhythms, big overdriven
guitars, throbbing bass lines, and vocals delivered with proper intensity.
At a point in time when there are so many limp wristed bands on the planet,
the guys in JIP are a nice refreshing blast of cold water in the face. Cool
rockers include "Can't Say No," "Rock Hard Soul," "Last
Call," and "Unknowns."
Sherry
Lynn - A Beautiful Life (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The sophomore album from Sherry Lynn. This young lady has a sound
and presence that should immediately hit the target with country music fans
around the world. Rather than tackle heavy topics, she keeps things light
and easy on A Beautiful Life...and that just might be what makes
the album such a pleasant spin. At a time when most people need some form
of escape, these upbeat uplifting tracks ought to provide that. We were
already enjoying the listener-friendly tracks on this album. But when we
went to Ms. Lynn's web site and saw the live video of "Girls Will Be
Girls"...well, we pretty much fell in love. Lynn has a great presence.
She's a real beauty. And she has a voice that is resonant and real.
Pretty much all of the tracks on this album sound like potential hits. The
album closes with the title track which features a duet with country superstar
Crystal Gayle. A Beautiful Life will be welcomed with open
arms by music fans everywhere. In addition to the previously mentioned cuts,
our favorite songs include "I Like 'Em Like That," "So Much
More," and "I Could Get Used To This." Resilient and refreshing.
Top pick.
Luno
- Zeroth (Czech Republic import CD, Indies
Scope, Progressive pop)
Begun in 2009, the Czech band Luno is comprised of Ema Brabcova
, Martin Chmatal, Jan Janecka, and Martyn Stary. The band refers
to their own music as psych pop, but it's actually more complex than such
a descriptive term might suggest. Luno has had quite a bit of success in
their own country. Their debut album was named the ninth best Czech album
of 2011 by the web magazine Musicserver. The band now seems poised
to transfer some of that success to other parts of the globe. Zeroth
is a curious collection of technology based pop/rock tunes with the heavy
emphasis on rhythms and Brabcova's seductive voice. With just a bit of luck,
these folks could easily find themselves the next up-and-coming ultra-hip
underground band. They've got the songs and the sound to go all the way
with this one. Cool perplexing tracks include "Wrong Start," "This
Is The Fake," "Zeroth," and "Sizrhen."
Man
With A Mission - Don't Feel The Distance
E.P. (CD EP, Sony, Pop/rock)
This EP reminds us of the glory days of the 1990s when industrial rock was
pushing music to another level. The first thing that will catch your attention
about the guys in Man With A Mission is the image. All four members
wear wolf heads which entirely cover their faces...which reminds us of The
Residents. But that's where the similarities end. This four song EP
hits hard and fast and features one remix ("Distance") by Sid
Wilson of Slipknot. If you like thick, fast, complex technology-driven
modern pop, give this one a spin. It's a short disc. But it delivers one
mighty big punch.
Marching
Band - So Much Imagine (Independently
released CD-R / Download / Vinyl, Pop)
Remarkably bright, resilient, and intelligent modern pop from Sweden's Marching
Band. The band is the duo of Erik Sunbring and Jacob Lind,
two clever fellows with enough smarts and imagination to run circles around
most other twenty-first century pop songwriters. Sunbring and Lind write
inventive technology-driven pop that reminds us in many ways of the criminally
overlooked 1970s band 10CC. We're reviewing a CD-R that was sent
our way, but this release is actually only being made available as a download
and as a vinyl LP. There's an incredible amount of material to take in here.
These guys offer a whopping twenty-one tracks that clock in at nearly seventy-one
minutes (!). For most artists, this would be the ultimate kiss of death.
After all, who can come up with that much credible original material...?
Well, believe it or not...every single track has something substantial to
offer and during all seventy-one minutes we never once felt bored
or disinterested. This album is going to be an instant hit among serious
fans of underground pop. There are so many killer tracks here that you are
certain to be blown away. Erik and Jacob hit the target dead center here
in babysueland. We love this stuff...!!! Highly recommended
for Spring 2014... TOP PICK.
David
Martin - Silky Smooth Moments (CD, Angel Air, Pop)
We only became aware of Great Britain's David Martin over the past
few years by way of several reissues released by the Angel Air label. Although
Martin has been very active over the years and has certainly entered your
consciousness in one form or another without your knowing it, he still remains
somewhat obscure perhaps because he has been involved with so many other
bands and artists over the years (as a singer, songwriter, and musician).
Silky Smooth Moments is decidedly overdue, and will hopefully give
this man more of the credit he so obviously deserves. The album begins with
the Martin original "Silky Smooth Moments" before presenting David's
interpretations of ten songs written by other classic artists including
Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, George Gershwin, and more. In some ways
this album reminds us of Harry Nilsson's A Little Schmillson In
The Night...except the overall sound is much more subdued and sparse.
Accompanied by the Terry Coffey Trio, Martin is sounding mighty focused
and sincere here. In addition to the title track, our favorite cuts include
"Almost Like Being In Love," "Just One Of Those Things,"
and "Let's Face The Music And Dance." Let's hope this is the beginning
of a long string of solo releases from this ultra-talented musical icon.
Marc
Maynon - Download Jesus (Independently
released CD EP, Pop)
Marc Maynon is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter in San Francisco
who describes his sound as "a hybridization of Robbie Williams
and The Sleepy Jackson." Mixed by Adam Munoz and mastered
by Ken Lee, this self-produced EP presents four smart solid songs
with intelligent lyrics. All of these cuts sound like potential hits. Marc
has a great knack for creating memorable winding melodies and words that
you won't soon forget ("I am a man of many faces. Be sure you know
which one you kiss.") If you appreciate pop artists like Ben
Folds and The Pearlfishers there's a good chance you'll totally
get what Maynon is all about. Our favorites here are "Man of Many Faces"
and "Challenge of Extremes." This young fellow is heading in the
right direction with a super bright future ahead of him.
Miss
Quincy and the Showdown - Roadside Recovery
(Independently released CD, Rock/pop)
Hard kickin' ballsy rock from three Canadian ladies who know how to turn
up and let loose. This band is the trio comprised of Jody Peck (vocals,
electric guitar), Shari Rae (upright bass), and Joy Mullen
(drums). These girls aren't playing the traditional female role in the world
of music. Like 1970s groundbreakers Fanny, they play it tight and
loud. And they're not afraid to let their aggressive sides show. The first
Miss Quincy album was released in 2010 (Mama Don't Like Me)
and that was followed up with The Devil Does in 2012. After becoming
a permanent three piece the band began touring heavily and has played live
with furious intent. And after hearing the hot tracks on Roadside Recovery
we'd be willing to bet these girls put on quite a show. Ten gutsy tracks
here including "Bad Love," "Making Money," "Rush
Hour Traffic With A Hangover," and "Water Tower." Gritty
explosive stuff with balls.
The
Muppets - Most Wanted (CD, Disney, Pop)
Whenever Jim Henson's puppets combine with the professional production
talents at Disney, parents and children are sure to be entertained.
This soundtrack to the new Muppets film features no less than twenty-five
new pop recordings from the puppets who changed puppet history. Songs feature
solo vocals in some cases while other tracks feature the Muppet members
singing with some big name celebrities including Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett,
Josh Groban, Celine Dion, and more. This album features songs by Oscar-winner
Bret McKenzie so you know they are an exact fit for the target audience.
Plenty of goofy and silly tracks here including "We're Doing A Sequel,"
"I'll Get You What You Want (Cockatoo In Malibu)," "Together
Again," and "Working In The Coal Mine." This film obviously
relies heavily on songs and is bound to be an instant Springtime hit.
Music
For Hard Times - City of Cardboard (CD,
Public Eyesore, Sound/improvisation)
Ahhhhhh...sound as music. There are very few things that cause as
many debates as artists who create peculiar audio explorations that few
can comprehend and/or understand because the usual elements in music have
been discarded. Music For Hard Times is the duo of Tom Nunn
and Paul Winstanley. Using various instruments and effects, these
guys use sound like paint...creating abstractions that are curious, sometimes
spooky, and ultimately difficult experiences for the casual listener. The
folks at Public Eyesore have very quickly made quite a name for themselves
by being brave and adventurous enough to release these kinds of albums,
knowing very well that they will only reach a very limited audience. City
of Cardboard features seven improvisational tracks. These pieces are
bound to confuse and confound even the most ardent music fans. If you're
looking for something cute, catchy, and comfortable...this is not
the place to find it. Nunn and Winstanley are creating pure art here. And
although some would question whether or not it really is music...in
our minds this form of sound is just as valid as any other. Mind bending
cuts include "Obstacle Coarse," "Augury Spirit," and
"Map of the Alleys." Strange and unpredictable. Top pick.
Nurse
With Wound / Aranos - Santoor Lena Bicycle (Double vinyl LP, Tourette,
Experimental)
What an incredibly cool package... This double album is a collaboration
between Nurse With Wound and Aranos. Each disc was pressed
on beautiful clear vinyl and the set includes an ultra cool booklet featuring
art that the two created for this project. An interesting story we found
on the Aranos (link above) web site. Steven Stapleton (the
man who is Nurse With Wound) and Aranos simultaneously created eighteen
large paintings that were exhibited for one day only at Town Hall Studio
in Galway, Ireland. The music on this album was played during the exhibit.
The next day the two artists cut the paintings into 1000 pieces which were
used to create 500 individual covers for the Santoor Lena Bicycle
CD. How cool is that? Well if that doesn't intrigue you...the music on this
album certainly will. We received the double vinyl LP version of
Bicycle which makes the music available to more people (the original
run of CDs has already sold out) as well as those who prefer vinyl. So...what
about the music? Well...we can only recommend this album for folks who like
experimental sound pieces. Folks who want easy familiar music should consider
themselves forewarned. This album presents eleven curious tracks...some
of which are more musical than others. But all are strange and unpredictable,
each in their own way. Stapleton and Aranos are making music as a pure form
of artistic expression. As such, you won't be hearing tracks like "Marbles"
or "Bathing In Air" in the background of any of your favorite
cable television programs. These strange pieces set a definite mood and
have a peculiar way of altering consciousness. One thing is certain...you
either love this kinda thing or you don't. Here in the le land de la
suebaby...we just could never get enough. Love it. TOP PICK.
Old
Smokey - Wester Easter (CD, Cloud Recordings, Eclectic)
It's probably easier for most folks to listen to artists and bands who sound
similar to other artists and bands. And that's kinda unfortunate,
because it means that the folks who are truly doing something different
tend to get overlooked in the big scheme of things. The guys in Old Smokey
are dabbling in a variety of musical styles that makes it very difficult
trying to describe their overall sound. You'd think with the multitude of
styles happening on Wester Easter that the album would have a schizophrenic
sound....but instead the exact opposite is true. On their debut full-length
release, these guys prove that they can effortlessly fall into various genres
without ever losing their own unique sound. The band members have previously
played with The Olivia Tremor Control, Circulatory System, Vic Chesnutt,
Ham1, Moths, Madeline, The Good Ship, and The New Sound of Numbers.
So perhaps their varied experiences have contributed to their genre-bending
approach. Wester Easter is a genuinely great spin. These tracks are
ultimately melodic and memorable, and they were crafted with precise skill
and attention to detail. Instead of trying to come up with a hit, our guess
is that these guys are simply following their own muse and allowing their
music to take them wherever it may. Intriguing and sincerely...different.
Pacific
Mean Time - Pacific Mean Time (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop)
Pacific Mean Time is the new band created by previous members of
the band Little Beirut. The band enjoyed a good bit of success with
underground music fans. But over time the band members began to feel as
if they had hit a brick wall and considered quitting making music altogether.
But when a wave of creativity hit which produced a new round of songs the
decision was made to continue forging ahead but with a new name, image,
and sound. Pacific Mean Time will appeal to fans of Little Beirut
as well as anyone who loves well produced modern progressive pop. The songs
are smart and dreamy, the arrangements intelligent and precise, and the
vocals are always right on target. Some of the cuts on this album remind
us of Starflyer 59 but only slightly. Coming up with other possible
comparisons and/of influences is difficult. We'll be spinning this one over
and over and over this Spring. These cool drifting melodies are just what
the doctor ordered...
The
Pearlfishers - Open Up Your Colouring Book
(CD, Marina, Pop)
Okay, so we have to admit here that we're approaching this one from a biased
perspective. We've been big fans of The Pearlfishers for quite some
time and wanted to jump out of our socks when we received this one in the
mail. David Scott (the driving force behind the band) has been making
music for many years now and has somehow managed to always write surprisingly
upbeat and optimistic tunes. If you've never heard Scott's songs before,
his compositions sound something like The Carpenters and/or Burt
Bacharach...except much more poppy, upbeat, and current. Open Up
Your Colouring Book is yet another riveting addition to the Pearlfishers
catalogue. The melodies glide by effortlessly while intelligent lyrical
observations are presented...and everything is supported by wonderfully
magical arrangements that fit each song to a T. Folks who only like dark
noisy music will probably despise this album...but folks who appreciate
the more uplifting side of music should be totally knocked out. As much
Pearlfishers music as we've heard (and we've heard a lot...), we
could never ever get enough. Sixteen perfectly crafted cuts here
including "Diamonds," "The Way May Father Talked About Vincent,"
"Silly Bird," and "A Christmas Tree In A Hurricane."
We'll be spinning this one into the ground. Perfectly driving music for
Spring 2014. Can't say enough good things about this one... TOP PICK.
Peter,
Paul and Mary - Peter, Paul and Mary
(Limited Edition CD, Audio Fidelity,
Folk/pop)
Limited edition SACD/CD reissue of the debut album from the folk trio of
Peter, Paul and Mary. The folks at the Audio Fidelity label are reissuing
classic albums from the past that listeners know and love all too well.
So there will be those who love and welcome the reissues...as well as those
who find fault with the newly remastered tracks. To our ears, this disc
sounds as good or better than previous releases although one contact informed
us there are some minor flaws with a track or two here. Whether you're a
diehard fan or a casual listener, there's no denying the impact these three
individuals had on the world of music in the early to mid-1960s. These songs
still have an intriguing innocence that is sadly missing in much of today's
far-too-aware music scene. Twelve classic cuts from the past here including
"Early In The Morning," "This Train," "If I Had
A Hammer," and of course the 1960s mantra everyone remembers..."Where
Have All The Flowers Gone."
Polarities - Exploring The Contemporary Expanse (CD, Navona,
Classical)
The idea for this album was to expose listeners to new classical music compositions
that express "the emotions, feelings, and scenes associated with
opposites." In order to achieve this goal, this CD presents five
creations from four modern composers: Mathew Fuerst, Katherine Saxon,
Chi-Hin Leung, and Alex Freeman. Fuerst's "Symphony,"
presented in three sections, is moody, sometimes sparse, sometimes light,
and sometimes spooky. Approximately nineteen minutes of challenging music
that shifts in terms of moods and styles. Saxon's "East of the Sun/West
of the Moon" is very intriguing. Divided into eleven sections,
these tracks feature the talents of Jessica Lizak on flute, Peter
Sulski on viola, and Karolina Rojahn on piano. Because of the
strange nature of these pieces they could easily fit in the category of
modern/avant garde. Next up, also from Saxon, is "Vox Dilecti Mei."
This piece stands out on the album because it is the only composition that
features a vocalist (Amanda Kohl). Leung's "Afterimage: The
Dreamy Butterfly" jumps all over the place in terms of sounds and moods,
coming across something like the soundtrack to a cool underground suspense
film. The album closes with Freeman's "Blueshift," which is based
on astronomical phenomenon. Featuring Lisa Hennessy on flute, Jan
Halloran on clarinet, Peter Sulski on violin, Leo Eguchim
on cello, Karolina Rojahn on piano, and Robert Schkulz on
percussion, the composition allows the album to close on a more serene and
peaceful note. True to it's title, Polarities does present the emotions
associated with opposites. Challenging modern music that fits comfortable
outside the box.
Never ever use a period.
Could you please refrain from using question marks?
Exclamation points are the absolute worst!
And never ever end a sentence with a semi-colon;
Xavi
Reija - Resolution (CD, Moonjune, Progressive jazz)
This album just goes to show what can be done with the basics...if
you know how to use the basics, that is. Rarely do we see/hear releases
from drummers and percussionists, thus this one immediately caught our attention.
Xavi Reija is a drummer. And here he is supported by Bernat Hernandez
on bass guitar and Dusan Jevtovic on guitar. In an earlier incarnation
of the band Reija also incorporated keyboards and saxophone into the sound.
The new stripped-down sounds exceedingly groovy and hypnotic. Rhythms are,
not surprisingly, the driving force here. All three individuals are so focused
on their individual instruments that the overall sound is remarkably thick
and full. Hernandez plays bass with confidence...providing the heavy bass
lines that drive the music. Jevtovic is a guitarist extraordinaire, going
all over the place in terms of styles and sounds. And Reija, of course,
provides the driving beat that holds everything together. These guys let
loose with some spacey spontaneous stuff here. Very cerebral and mind altering
music. Eleven kickass tracks and they're all keepers. Our favorites
include "Flying To Nowhere," "Dreamer," "John's
Song," and "Welcome To The End." Top pick.
Should
- The Great Pretend (CD, Words
On Music, Progressive pop)
The band Should has had a long and unorthodox career. The band originally
began in Austin, Texas using the name shiFt. Inspired by early recordings
from Lilys Marc Ostermeier then formed Should along with Tanya
Maus and his brother Eric Ostermeier. The band recorded a couple
of albums before going into hibernation. Thirteen years later they released
the well-received Like A Fire Without Sound album. And now three
years later comes the fourth full-length release. This band's music has
never been driven by a desire for fame, money, or success. Instead, the
main emphasis is on creative freedom and creating music with substance.
And these ideas ring loud and true on the beautifully dreamy The Great
Pretend. The tracks on this album fit somewhere in that territory where
dream pop meets shoegaze. The music is soothing and cerebral and the vocals
delivered with appropriate restraint. If you're looking for easy catchy
pop you won't find it here. But if you're in the moody for heavy progressive
dreaming...then prepare to be hypnotized. Eleven imaginative cuts including
"Don't Send Me Your Regrets," "Everybody Knows," "Amends,"
and "Don't Get To Know Me."
The
Size Queens - Save The Plant! (Independently
released CD, Pop)
A band name like this undoubtedly conjures up all kinds of ideas in the
minds of music fans. But ultimately they would be wrong because The Size
Queens aren't anything like you think they might be. The band is driven
by the songwriting skills of Adam Klein and Michael Mullen,
two fellows who have somehow managed to carve their own unique niche in
the cluttered world of modern music. Save The Plant! is a bit different
from previous Size Queens albums in that it seems more subdued and mellow.
Where Klein and Mullen really excel is in writing substantial words and
melodies...and this album contains plenty of both. These guys are probably
our favorite modern lyricists. The words are sometimes serious and sometimes
goofy...but there are always plenty of cool observations lurking beneath
the surface. "Spinning World" features some of the coolest lyrics
we've ever heard. The song presents ideas that most folks simply
don't want to hear...that in reality we don't have that much control over
things that happen out there in the real world. The slightly moody pop songs
on this album are resilient and often times brilliant. Our guess is that
over time this band will end up being credited as one of the truly great
bands of the early twenty-first century. We can't get enough of Adam and
Michael's ultra-intelligent brand of pensive modern pop. Highly recommended.
TOP PICK.
Ignore the
Spoon spot
And it will go
Away.
Carleton
Stone - Draws Blood (CD, GroundSwell
Music, Soulful folky pop)
Nice smooth melodic pop from Canada's Carleton Stone. This young
fellow has a sound that is immediately familiar. The songs on Draws Blood
have a great deal of commercial potential so if all the pieces fall into
place...Mr. Stone could end up being hugely successful. Instead of sounding
like a new studio album, this disc sounds more like a best of collection
because virtually every one of these ten tracks sounds like a hit single.
Carleton dedicated this album to his fellow musician/friend/mentor Jay
Smith who passed away shortly before this album was recorded. Thus,
subjects dealing with the loss of his friend are threaded into some of these
tracks. Fans of classic radio pop will find a lot to love here. Songs that
initially stand out for us are "Blood Is Thicker Than Water,"
"Signs of Life" (which features a truly beautiful melody and
great lyrics), "What I Want," and "Pick Me Up, Dust Me
Off."
Swans - To Be Kind (Advance Double CD, Young
God, Progressive)
With the release of To Be Kind, Swans once again prove to
be a magical and vital musical force that continues well into the twenty-first
century. For this album the band is comprised of Michael Gira, Norman
Westberg, Christoph Hahn, Phil Puleo, Thor Harris, and Christopher
Pravdica. If you loved previous releases from this band, chances are
you will also love this one. If previous Swans albums didn't make sense
to you, then this one probably won't either. Fortunately we belong in the
former group of listeners who enjoy being challenged by Gira and his associates.
How many bands can you think of that began in the early 1980s and are still
credible and relevant today? One reason Swans have managed to survive is
that their releases always tend to remain in the underground and are usually
only appreciated by a core group of listeners. As we all know, too much
success can cause way too much damage to the average musician and/or band.
And financial success usually means death to the creative process. This
band is still all about creating music out of the pure desire to do so.
And that is obvious from hearing these latest recordings. So...who does
To Be Kind sound like? Well...Swans, of course...who else?
This band truly has carved out their own unique niche in the world of music
so it is difficult trying to compare them to anyone else. This is being
offered as a double CD, triple vinyl LP, and as a download. So take your
choice. More highly inventive stuff from Swans...created with true focus
and imagination. TOP PICK.
Twilight
Circus Meets Edward
Ka-Spel - 800 Saints In A Day (CD, Tourette, Experimental)
Although most folks would never know it from the title, this disc is a Legendary
Pink Dots reunion album of sorts. Ryan Moore (of Twilight
Circus) was once in the Dots while Edward Ka-Spel
is currently in the Dots. Though Moore left the band years ago the
two have remained in touch. In the summer of 2012 the two decided to once
again work together...and thus the seeds for 800 Saints In A Day
were spread. Ryan recorded the initial tracks for this album and then handed
them over to Edward who extended and finished recording them. Anyone who
is familiar with either of these artists already knows that these guys aren't
the ones to deliver this month's temporary brand of cute and catchy techno
dance pop. These two guys operate on the fringes of the musical universe,
recording whatever and however they please...with little or no regard for
any sort of commercial appeal. Describing this album is difficult. Some
of the cuts are more musical than we were expecting...while others sound
very much like tailored accidents. We love the space where these guys dare
to go...mainly because they always manage to challenge and captivate. Eight
trippy tracks here...and they all work. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Have a heart.
Have half a heart.
Have three hearts.
Have fifteen thousand six hundred and seventy-seven
Hearts.
Barry
White - Can't Get Enough (Limited Edition
Vinyl LP, Audio Fidelity,
Soul/pop)
This release will appeal to two great big legions of fans...vinyl lovers...and
seriously passionate Barry White fans. This limited edition numbered
vinyl album features all the tracks from the original album that have been
specially remastered for this disc. For many people, Barry's music is the
best time capsule of 1970s soul on the planet. Though this album was reissued
on CD years ago, this vinyl reissue will delight fans who want that wonderful
deep bass sound that can only be provided by an analog source. This is one
super package...the album sleeve is the original foldout type that fans
will remember from long ago. Seven infectious cuts here including "You're
My First, The Last, My Everything," "I Can't Believe You Love
Me," "Oh Love, Well We Finally Made It," and "I Love
You More Than Anything (In This World Girl)." Groovy seventies memories
revisited.
Wishbone
Ash - Blue Horizon (German import CD,
Rock Solid House, Pop)
We were surprised to receive this disc in the mail because we have to admit
that we were not aware of the fact that the guys in Wishbone Ash
were still making music...and have been doing so continuously now for about
45 years (!). Just goes to show that in the twenty-first century there are
so many artists out there that there's no way of keeping track of them all
at any given time. Considering how long the band has been making music,
most music fans will probably be surprised that Blue Horizon has
a rather fresh sound and feel. Instead of sounding like a tired war horse,
these guys still manage to inject their music with plenty of spirit and
cool energy. Originally formed in 1969, Wishbone Ash has released 24 studio
albums, 10 live albums, 4 live DVDs, and were also the subject of a rockumentary
(This Is Wishbone Ash). Horizon features the cool grooves
that band's fans have come to know and love. And those groovy guitars sound
just as cool as ever. These guys deserve credit not only for keeping the
flame going...but also for continuing to be a credible force in the world
of music. Well-crafted tracks include "Take It Back," "Deep
Blues," "Way Down South," and "All There Is To Say."
Wesley
Wolfe - Numbskull (Independently released
CD-R, Pop)
We're not normally influenced much by a bunch of press quotes. But we have
to admit that the particular quotes on the press release (from folks whose
opinions matter) that accompanied this album caught our attention. And it
only took a matter of minutes for us to realize why so many writers shower
Wesley Wolfe with so much praise. This guy is good. He's been
making music for about twenty years now but you'd never know it judging
by the songs on Numbskull. This album has all the cool puzzle pieces
that make great pop great. There's a heavy emphasis on lyrics...and the
vocal melodies are absolutely out of sight. Wesley's voice is a perfect
fit for his style of underground pop. He never oversings or pushes things
too hard...but always manages to get the most out of every note and syllable.
In some ways the tunes on Numbskull remind us of Robert Pollard
(Guided By Voices) but only slightly because Wolfe definitely has
his own sound and style. Plenty of ultra catchy cuts here that will grab
you on the very first spin. Our initial favorites include "Lost In
My Daydreams," "Cloud Cuckoo," "Deathrow," and
"All That Matters."
A
Activator - Activator
Seth Adam - Steel tempered pride
Amen Ittys - Pliers
Alana Amram & The Rogh Gems - Spring river
Amigo - Might coulc
Annette - Dream with me
Apollo Chamber Players - European folkscapes
Arrested Development - At long last...music ans songs from Arrested Development
August: Osage Countyk - Original motion picture soundtrack
Auris + Gino - Rub
B
Baby Baby - Big boy baller club
Sherman Baker - Sherman Baker
Brian Baugus - Actor songster sage
Bee Bee Bee Bee - Eee Eee Eee Eee
Bezobratri - Bezobratri
Bim Skala Bim - Chet's last call
Erica Blinn - Lovers in the dust
Sam Boshnack Quintet - Exploding syndrome
Roger Bourland - Four quartets of songs and arias
Bowed Piano Ensemble - Ice and fire
Brushfire Stankgrass - Micro climntes
Ellen Burr / Michael Unruh - Where am i from, where am i going
Rosemary Butler - You just watch me
C
Azure Carter & Alan Sondheim - Avator woman
Che Prasad - Christmastime in the apocalypse
Che Prasad - Shiva me timbers
Susan Clynes - Life is...
David G. Cortes - Time away but home again
Cosmic Punlch - FM stereo
Crap Detectors - On the psycho path of life
D
Keith Davis Trio - Still
Matija Dedic, Antonio Sanchez, Scott Colley - Sentiana
Frank Dibussolo Group - Songs to write home about
Doors - A psyche tribute to The Doors
Bob Dorough - Bob Dorough
Doug Richards Trio - Jazz in the living room
Drockulette - Smock
E
Dave Ellis - Everything in between
Jace Everett - Terra rosa
Jace Everett Bad things
Ezzeethere - Not so...
F
Fair Ophelia - 2
Fankhauser Cassidy Band - On the blue road
Far West - Any day now
Fearing & White - Tea and confidences
Footnotes - Comin' home
Foundations - Modern works in the clasical tradition
Carl Franklin - Been a while
Morgan Frazier - Morgan Frazier
Frozen - Original soundtrack
G
Nick Gallant - Wanderlust
Glass House - Long way down
Global Unified - Global Unified
Good Grief / Eureka California - Rusty nail & another round b/w Turn
on autopilot, DC sniper
Goodnight Tonight - Watch the rain
H
Matt Hannah - Let the lonely fade
Hard Soul - Seize the year
Dave & Emma Hart - Hold on
Heavy Glow - Pearls & swine and everything fine
Amanda Homi - Till I reach Bombay
Kandia Crazy Horse - Stampede
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! - The musical
I
Il Rumore Bianco - Mediocrazia
Indies Scope - 2013
Intimate Dream - Wonderful thing
J
The JAC - Love dumb
Noel Johnston - Salted coffee
Jokeless - Smoke free
Carolyn Lee Jones - The performer
Nate Jones Band - EP
Just A Machine - Piqured jacks
Just A Season - Just A Season
Just A Tarzan - Just A Tarzan
Just A Zoo - Just A Zoo
K
Kaak - Licked and licker
Kelly's Lot - Live in Brussels
Elly Kouri - I love you too much
Adrian Krygowski - Roam
Daniela Kuri - Sway
L
Lalama Brothers - Erie Ave.
Jacob Latham - Midnight train
Jackie Lomax - Against all odds
Michelle Langara - Songs of blue
Lowman - Garden of rainbows
Lucky Bone - Borderline
M
Machine Don't Lie - Nobody panic
Magnolia - Magnolia
Ray Majors - The 7% solution
Dan Masterson - Learn to live
Josh Matthews - A sides
Josh Matthews - Co-patriot
McCormick Percussion Group - Soli for soprano with percussion orchestra
Moistboyz - 5
Monuments Men - Original motion picture soundtrack
Ken Will Morton - Slow burn
Mud - Original motion picture soundtrack: Score by David Wingo
My Education - 5 popes
N
Namb - Namb
Nine Times Blue - Matter of time
Nissy - Program the hissing thing
Noisy Noses - Noisy Noses
Brian Noyes - Journeys after...
Nylon Jail - My heart soars like a hawk
O
Oak Street Blues - Calico
Old Cabin - Old Cabin
One Chance - Original motion picture soundtrack
Oooooo - Noooooo
Orchestra of Spheres - Vibration animal sex brain music
P
Charlie Parr - Hollandale
Troy Petty - Fairy tale pen
Steve Picataggio - Two feet on the ground
Aaron Poehler & Ryan Tullyt-Doyle - Dietrich
Q
R
Reacta - Refraction
James Tristan Redding - Walking into Brooklyn
Marty Regan - Scattering light, scattering flowers
Royal Oui - Royal Oui
S
Sarah - Featuring Bruce Barth
Scan Hopper - Mariana bridges
Scattered Bodies - Talking songs
David Serby and the Latest Scam - David Serby and the Latest Scamd
Sherlock - Original television soundtrack
Herb Silverstein - Monday morning: 10 original tunes
Sine Qua Non - Simple pleasures
Spell Kasters - Kastin' the spell
Spycker - Voted away
Richard Stoltzman - Resolve
Stray - Life in Japan 2013
Joe Sullivan - Whiskey jack waltz
Mason Summit - Absentee
Sweet - Sweetlife
T
That Awkward Moment - Original motion picture soundtrack
Beth Thornley - Septagon
Dinah Thorpe - Lullabies & walke up calls
Tippy - Getting Tippy
Alex Tjoland Band - Silent revelry
U
Ugly Quartet - Mars needs Maurice
Unrepeatable Quartet - Edmonton 2012
The Use - What's the use?
V
Vices - Vices
Vinny Vegas - The big white whale
W
Week of Wonders - Piggybacks b/w The end of the day
Stan Wells - High tide
Jeremy Wilms - Diamond people
Winter Pale - Red sun
Woodshedders - Wildfire
Rik Wright - Fundamental forces
X
Y
Yippee - A, D, and U
Z
Frank Zappa - Everyone hates my wife now
