May 2014 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews from
aka 
Stream "You Can Make Up Your Mind"
James
Apollo - Angelorum (CD, Marterry
Music Ltd., Pop)
This is one of those cases where we not only admire the music...but we also
admire the approach. Angelorum arrived in our mailbox in a plain
brown wrapper with no accompanying information. When we went to the artist's
web site (link above), there was very little information to be found other
than a totally groovy video. Even though he's been making music for a while,
to the best of our knowledge this is the first time we've been exposed to
the music of James Apollo. This guy is good. The cuts on this
album are extremely danceable without being mindless...very warm overall
and they don't have that digital "canned" sound that is so common
with many twenty-first century recordings. James has a great voice that
really transmits. And judging from the video we saw the guy has real presence
and can dance up a storm. Listening to this, we can't help but think
that Apollo must put on one helluva show. Angelorum is a different
sort of album with tracks that don't fit safely within generic pigeonholes.
Produced by Mark Stockert, these cuts are amazingly well realized
and crafted with great attention to detail. With just a bit of luck and
the right timing, Apollo could very well end up being a major celebrity.
Knockout cuts include "White Line," "Angelorum," "A
Spinnin Ghost," "Neverland," and "Lone Lake."
The
Archers - These Wicked Woods (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop/folk/Americana)
Read closely...this band is The Archers...not The Archies.
And there are major differences between the two. The Archies were a cartoon
bubblegum band from the 1960s while The Archers are a twenty-first century
folk/pop band based in Victoria, British Columbia. How different can you
get? This band is comprised of Ethan Caleb, Sandy Hughes, Liam
McLaren, Liam Moes, and Robert McMullen. These Wicked Woods,
their debut full-length release, features nice flowing songs with articulate
arrangements, interesting lyrical observations, cool vocals, and overall
pensive vibrations. The folks in this band started right after finishing
high school so they've only just gotten started. Their 2011 EP (Much
More Than Merry Men) received a good deal of very positive reactions,
and our guess is that this album will be even more warmly received. The
Archers are touring heavily around Canada this spring in support of this
album. Eleven well-crafted cuts here including "These Wicked Woods,"
"Moon Song," "Riots & Judgments," and "Song
of a Father."
John
Beall - Appalachian Inspiration: Appalachian
Chamber Music Vol. 3 (CD, Ravello,
Classical)
John Beall is a long time Professor and Composer-in-Residence (since
1978) at West Virginia University. On his Ravello debut, Beall explores
the connections that are possible between folk and chamber music...and the
results just might surprise you. John cites Appalachian folk music as a
style of music that has made a great impact on him. On Appalachian Inspiration
he takes Appalachian folk songs and presents them using classical instruments.
One might think the marriage of the two would sound strange or peculiar
but instead, the two genres seem well suited for another...or at least they
sound that way when Beall is ministering the marriage. The album is presented
in three sections: "Sonata for Viola and Piano," "Quintet
for Piano and Strings," and "Wondrous Love Variations." All
of this music was recorded at various locations in Morgantown, West Virginia
and the sound quality is impeccable. Precise, intricate, and methodical
music with a difference.
Bee
Gees - The Warner Bros. Years 1987-1991
(CD Box Set, Warner Bros., Pop)
Although most folks in the United States aren't familiar with the Bee
Gees' output from 1987 to 1991, the albums the band released during
this time were very well received in other parts of the world. Americans
were so enamored with the band's disco material from the 1970s (which in
our opinion was the weakest link in the Bee Gees' chain) that they apparently
weren't willing to follow the band when they returned to their pop roots.
It would seem that the band's later albums would have been revisited by
now, but that hasn't been the case until now. As such, The Warner Bros.
Years 1987-1991 will hopefully be the release to turn more folks onto
three albums that should have received much more attention than they did
when they were first released. This five disc set contains the three studio
albums E.S.P., One, and High Civilization...all of
which have been remastered to provide state-of-the-art sound. Each album
includes bonus tracks at the end. Rounding out the set is the double disc
set entitled One For All Concert 1989 which was recorded live at
the National Tennis Centre in Melbourne, Australia. Some Bee Gees fans are
already upset by the fact that there is no booklet included in this set.
But in reality, that shouldn't be such a big deal because these days anyone
can pull up more information than they'd ever need about any aspect of the
band on the internet. Our guess is that the point here was to make this
music available to as many folks as possible by keeping the cost down and
to hopefully make more people aware of this phase of the band's career.
If you're like us and already have all three of these studio albums, you
will still want to acquire this set simply because these remastered
discs sound far better than the original issues. Plus you get several bonus
tracks and the double live disc set. We have always felt that One
and High Civilization were criminally overlooked when they first
came out. Perhaps now folks will be more receptive to what was one of the
truly strong periods of the band's career. Recommended for both casual fans
and Bee Gees fanatics. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Blue
Mother Tupelo - Only Sunshine (CD, Juke
Tonk, Foot stompin' southern pop)
Blue Mother Tupelo is the Nashville, Tennessee based husband and
wife team of Ricky Davis and Micol Davis. Only Sunshine
is the duo's fourth full-length release. It's been a few years since Ricky
and Micol released their last album (Heaven and Earth, 2009). That
disc struck a chord with lots of folks and this one's bound to elicit the
same kind of positive reactions. Unlike many Nashville artists, these two
musicians have a sound that is ragged, loose, and raw. When the Davis's
let loose, they can really make one helluva noise. But while foot stompin'
music is probably what the pair is best known form, they've also got a more
subdued melodic side that is equally appealing. If you wanna see what these
folks are really all about, go to their web site (link above) and check
out their videos. These two individuals are not only talented...but they
are also extremely focused. Ten gripping tracks here including "Country
Fun," "Meet Me Down River," "Free," "Comfort
For My Soul," and "Mississippi Mud."
The
Bones of J.R. Jones - Dark Was The Yearling
(Independently released CD, Pop)
Jonathon Linaberry is a man whose music harkens back to another place
and time...when music was a release from the soul and pure emotion channeled
into chords, words, and sounds. Many years ago Jonathan was into hardcore
and punk. But after hearing a music collection given to him called American
Roots Music he changed directions, opting instead to go the route chartered
by early artists like Blind Lemon Jefferson and Lightnin' Hopkins.
We've long admired early blues/roots artists but usually couldn't relate
to the lyrics. As such, Linaberry's music may make it possible for a whole
new generation to appreciate the style of music he makes. The songs on Dark
Was The Yearling are pure and simple, driven mainly by emotions rather
than technology. Few folks could pull this off. But Jonathan's got the talent,
the focus, and the voice to make it all work like magic. Twelve expertly
crafted tunes here including "Dreams To Tell," "St. James
Bed," "Broken Land," and "This Fire." Nice solid
music filled to the brim with integrity.
Gann
Brewer - Peddlers & Ghosts (Independently
released CD, Folk/pop)
Recorded in Memphis, Tennessee, Peddlers & Ghosts has all the
warmth and genuine appeal of a live performance. And that's probably exactly
what Gann Brewer was striving for when he recorded this album. Brewer
has been playing all over the world over the past couple of years meeting
folks and making connections with his friendly folk music. His influences
include John Prine, Mississippi John Hurt, Woody Guthrie, and Hank
Williams...so if you're into these artists there's a very good chance
you will appreciate this album. These songs are presented simply without
a lot of unnecessary ingredients muddying the mix. Backing Gann are Richard
Ford (pedal steel), David Michael Lee (keyboards, bass guitar),
and Lisa Kelly (mandolin). At a point in time when technology perfects
everything to pieces, this album comes across like a nice fresh splash of
water from a mountain stream. Cool compositions include "Dancin' in
Memphis," "Matter With Me," "Sidewalk Slim," and
"Leaving It All Behind."
Rachel
Taylor Brown - Falimy (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The ultra cool qualities in this lady's music are so subtle that we almost
missed them on the first couple of spins. Thankfully we took the extra time
to absorb the substance here...because we eventually realized that Rachel
Taylor Brown is one of the great unknowns in the world of music. Though
the humorously-titled Falimy is Brown's ninth full-length release,
up to this point in time she's still one of those obscure gems who is only
recognized by a relatively small fan base. But those who know Rachel obviously
love what she does. The songs on this album are basic pop but with
a twist. Ms. Brown is one articulate lady with a decidedly distinct sense
of humor. She's probably too smart for the casual listener and yet...on
the surface her songs sound so familiar and accessible that they could probably
be appreciated by a large number of listeners (even if they couldn't
understand the meaning hidden beneath the words). Backing Brown here are
Ben Landsverk, Jeff Langston, Leigh Marble, Katie Taylor, Lisa Stringfield,
Thom Sullivan, Liz Savage, Amanda Price, and Jennie Price.
Although her songs are reminiscent of classic pop artists from the past
and present, it is very difficult coming up with a single obvious comparison
here. We love every single track but initial standouts include "Mt.
Athos," "Robin," "Little F*cker," "Men In
War," and "One Brave Soul." This is one album that will most
certainly stand the test of time. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Svjetlana
Bukvich - Evolution (CD, Big Round, Progressive/eclectic/electro-acoustic/classical/jazz)
Rather astounding stuff here...and even more so when you consider the fact
that Evolution is Svjetlana Bukvich's debut full-length
release. If you like music that fits easily within one specific genre, this
album may be too much for your mirror. But if you like mind expanding stuff
that isn't fenced in or easily pigeonholed, you may very well find this
album gripping and infectious. Bukvich currently teaches music technology
at New York University but our guess is that her real passion is for writing
and recording her own music. Some true heavyweights contributed to this
album. It was mixed by the Grammy award-winning team of David Frost
and Tom Lazarus and features musical contributions from Tony Levin
(bass), Mordy Ferber (guitar), and Martha Mooke (electric
violin). It would be tempting to try and categorize this as world music
but that would be far too limiting. Svjetlana's music projects listeners
into another universe where imagination and creativity are in overdrive.
Her songs are unpredictable, magical, and often times otherworldly. Trying
to describe the sounds here is one difficult task. To sum things up simply...Evolution
is a resounding success on all levels. Five complex lengthy cuts
including "Before and After the Tekke," "You Move Me,"
and "Six Letters." Truly unique and different.
Butterfield Blues Band - East-West (Limited edition hybrid SACD, Audio
Fidelity, Blues/rock)
Hybrid SACD reissue of the classic East-West album. The Butterfield
Blues Band was a popular and controversial American band in the 1960s.
Controversial mainly because the band featured a multi-racial line-up. At
the time, folks apparently weren't ready for this. Originally released in
1966, East-West was probably long overdue for a true remastering
overhaul. And now, thanks for the kind folks at Audio Fidelity, the album
is once again presented...but this time as a hybrid SACD. Reissues of classic
albums can be a tricky thing. Sometimes the fans love them and in other
instances they all simultaneously slam them. Our guess is that this is a
case where all the fans are going to unite and give this one their seal
of approval. There are quite a few albums from the 1960s that have suffered
over time from their somewhat limited sound quality. Now sounding as crisp
and slick as when it was first recorded, this release breathes new life
into these nine tracks. Fans will no doubt be thrilled to hear the intricacies
of these recordings. Groovin' cuts include "Walkin' Blues," "Work
Song," and "East-West."
Eric
Clapton - Behind The Sun (Limited edition
hybrid SACD, Audio Fidelity,
Rock)
Hybrid SACD reissue of Eric Clapton's Behind the Sun. This
was Clapton's ninth full-length release that was originally issued on vinyl
in 1985. The album was a collaboration with Phil Collins (synthesizers,
machines) and featured more of Clapton's signature guitar playing that was
present on his previous solo albums. The album seems to get mixed reviews
from Clapton fans, probably because it was coming from a slightly different
direction. This hybrid SACD is bound to be a topic of debate among music
fans, most likely because the original album itself was released decades
ago. Whether you love it or hate it, these eleven tracks are now sounding
as clear as the evening sky over Kentucky. This is a limited edition disc
so if you want to hear this one better grab it up before they're gone. Some
of Eric's diehard fans consider this to be one of his underrated classics.
Best cuts: "She's Waiting," "Same Old Blues," "Tangled
In Love," "Behind The Sun."
Collapse
Under The Empire - Sacrifice & Isolation
(CD, Finaltune, Progressive/instrumental)
Collapse Under The Empire is the Hamburg, Germany-based duo of Chris
Burda and Martin Grimm. The two began playing together in 2008
and have been making a name for themselves ever since. Sacrifice &
Isolation is an album of instrumentals that might best be described
as epic and expansive. These ten tracks flow by like clouds in the sky,
occasionally veering into more intense and slightly surreal terrain. Burda
and Grimm compose music that sounds like it could easily be the soundtrack
to an underground art film. Precise and intricate, these ten cuts are extremely
intelligent and well-executed. Our initial favorites include "Sacrifice,"
"Lost," "What The Heart Craves For," and "The Path."
Connect_icut - Small Town By The Sea (CD, Aagoo,
Experimental)
The word "experimental" is probably cause for immediate concern
with most listeners. It's certainly true that there are a lot of
experimental artists whose music is so far out and extreme that it is almost
impossible for most folks to digest. And that's unfortunate...because there
are also a lot of experimental artists whose music is just as credible and
entertaining (many times even more so) than artists who take a more commercial/conventional
approach. Connect_icut is an English artist based in Vancouver, Canada
who makes music that is experimental and calming. The web site (link
above) gives only the basics about the artist. Our guess is that the idea
is to let listeners decide for themselves what to make of the music. Small
Town By The Sea is a curious spin. Not ultra strange, but somewhat curious
in many ways. Although this is technology driven music, there's a certain
cerebral quality to these recordings that is missing on many experimental
albums. The overall feel here is kinda...dreamy and hypnotic. Hard to explain
this in any other way really...except to say we find it exceptionally smooth
and satisfying. Six intriguing tracks and each one is effective and reflective.
Smart and resilient electronic music from a different mental space.
Eli
Cook - Primitive Son (CD, Cleopatra, Rock)
Eli Cook is one hard rockin' fellow who sure can play a mean, mean,
mean guitar. We're not sure why, but it seems like the guitar often
takes a back seat in the world of music in the twenty-first century. It's
probably because folks are so preoccupied with all the sounds that can be
created by using computers and other high tech instruments. Or it could
just be that folks want a more clean and sterile sound. We've always been
drawn to loud distorted guitars. Accordingly, when we put Primitive Son
on and heard Cook's huge distorted guitar...well, let's just say we were
instantly feeling mighty satisfied. The guest artists appearing on this
album should blow just about anyone's mind. Artists supporting Cook include
Leslie West, Pat Travers, Harvey Mandel, Eric Gales, Vinny Appice
and many more. But make no mistake about it--this is not one of those
albums where the guest artists are the main dish. Eli remains purely in
the limelight here, and he proves that he certainly is the real deal. In
addition to playing the hell out his guitar, Cook also has a great gravelly
voice that really cuts through the mix. Fourteen kickass groovin' cuts including
"War Horse," "Motor Queen," "Tall & Twisted,"
and "Burying Ground."
Cult
With No Name - Another Landing (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop)
The sixth full-length release from the United Kingdom-based band Cult
With No Name. The band is the duo of Erik Stein and Jon Boux,
two talented fellows who are obviously gifted with a plethora of imagination
and ideas . The tracks on Another Landing remind us a a wild array
of other artists including (but not limited to) New Order, Starflyer
59, and Ultra Vivid Scene. The tracks on Another Landing
have real depth and substance. Stein and Boux delve into a variety of musical
styles without ever sounding scattered or schizophrenic. Their songs are
rhythm driven but lyrics and vocals are the main overall central focal point.
Lending some additional help on these tracks are Kelli Ali, Blaine L.
Reininger, Luc van Lieshout, Bruce Geduldig, John Ellis, and Coppe
(whew!). The more we spin this album the more subtleties we notice.
These tracks were crafted with care and mixed to perfection. And if you
love packaging...well you're gonna love the way cool artsy cardboard
sleeve here. Our favorite tracks include "Everything Lasts an Age,"
"A Pound of Penny Gaffs," "Those Weren't The Days,"
and "Over and Out of Here." Recommended. Top pick.
Deison & Mingle - Everything Collapse[d] (CD, Aagoo,
Experimental)
Spooky strange stuff. This is the first collaboration between Italian artists
Cristiano Deison and Andrea Gastaldello (also known as Mingle)...and
it is one weird and trippy experience. We don't really even
know how to explain what this one sounds like. To quote directly from the
press release that accompanied the album (someone deserves an award for
these words), the album presents "...drones, field recordings and
processed loops intermingled with disturbed rhythms, melancholy harmonies
and piano chimes. A gloomy and dirty electronic sound that turns into an
extremely evocative score which is full of pathos." So...you can
bet your best Sunday booties that you won't be hearing these artists
playing live on Ellen anytime soon (heh heh heh...). This
stuff is decidedly hypnotic and surreal...sounding something like the soundtrack
to a film that takes place on another planet. Even though we can't come
up with the right words to describe this music, we can say that it is...effective.
These bizarre tracks evoke moods and feelings that are foreign and thought
provoking. We love being challenged. And this is one challenging album.
If you don't like the stranger side of music you probably won't care for
this. But if you go for stuff that's truly different...well then, we would
highly recommend this one. Mentally absorbing and completely...odd.
TOP PICK.
Mike
Dillon - Band of Outsiders (CD, Royal Potato Family, Progressive)
Mike Dillon is one of the true originals in the world of music. He's
been making music and fine-tuning his craft for over two decades now and
there don't seem to be any signs he's letting up. To try and sum up the
overall sound of the songs on Band of Outsiders... Dillon sounds
something like Les Claypool playing the vibraphone...his songs come
from the same general territory as Frank Zappa...and his vocals sound
something like a cross between Tom Waits and Don Van Vliet.
Dillon himself describes his music as "...New Orleans punk jazz
Brazilian math rock...a gumbo of tribal percussion, The Meters, old
school hardcore, Brazil, hard bop and anything else that might move us."
All of this may or may not give you a clue as to what this album sounds
like. Mike and his pals are definitely coming from another universe with
their own unique sound and style. And you can bet your pajamas that you've
probably never heard the vibraphone sounding like this before. We'd
be willing to bet that a Mike Dillon concert is something you will never
forget. Thirteen groovy tracks including "Head," "Great Lakes
Tuna," "Celebrate the Hate," and "Dauphine & Desire."
Closing a door
Is the same as
Opening a
Door.
Draft
Day - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Original Score Composed and Conducted by John
Debney (CD, Lakeshore,
Motion picture score)
Draft Day is a new sports film starring Kevin Costner and
Jennifer Garner. So this one will appeal to sports fans while others
will probably prefer to skip it. But regardless of the movie and its subject
matter, the score is a knockout. Composed and conducted by John Debney,
this is some superbly crafted music that could fit in well with any number
of entertaining events. Debney is probably best known as the man who created
the score for Mel Gibson's The Passion of the Christ but he
has also created music for numerous television shows including Star Trek:
The Next Generation, Doctor Who, Cagney and Lacey, Tiny Toon Adventures,
The New Yogi Bear Show, Nightmare Classics, and many more. An interesting
side note to mention is that John is the son of Disney Studios producer
Louis Debney (The Mickey Mouse Club). The score for Draft
Day features a whopping 34 tracks (!), and every single one is executed
to perfection. Listeners may find it interesting that this album doesn't
sound like the score for a sports film. The music is much more subdued
and moody than you might expect. Plenty of slick cuts here including "Most
Desperate Guy You Know," "The Team I Wanted," "Brown
on the Clock," and "Made a Trade, It's Me."
The Emperors of Wyoming - The Emperors of Wyoming (CD, Liaison Music, Pop)
The seeds of this band were spread many years ago in Madison, Wisconsin
in the late 1970s when these four fellows were playing in two separate bands.
They all knew one another at the time and probably would have liked to have
joined forces but, at the time, other things came up and they all ended
up going their separate ways. And that's how things continued until January
2009 when the four decided it was finally time to record an album together.
But there was only one problem--they now lived in four different cities.
But technology now allows such barriers to be crossed by way of e-mail file
transfers, and the four began working on their debut self-titled album.
The Emperors of Wyoming is comprised of Butch Vig, Phil
Davis, Frank Anderson, and Peter Anderson. The press release
that accompanied this disc described the music as "...spaghetti
western, country-and-western, bluegrass, surf-rock, acoustic folk, hard
rock, pop-metal, and pop-rock..." These thirteen tracks flow and
glide into all of these areas and more. The songs are overall rather smooth
and inviting and we would describe the overall sound here as Americana folk/pop/rock.
Some really nice sounds here. Our favorite tracks include "Bittersweet
Sound of Goodbye," "Rebirth of the Cool," "Sweep Away,"
and "Drinking Man's Town."
Funkyjenn - Rock & Roll Voodoo Queen (CD EP, Golden Joy,
Pop/rock)
The debut full-length release from the Los Angeles, California-based artist
Funkyjenn. Heavily influenced by artists she heard on the American
Bandstand show in the 1970s, Funkyjenn is on a mission to deliver the
same kind of soul/rock sounds that inspired her when she was growing up.
She sure has assembled an impressive cast to support her here. Playing on
this album are Ted Russell Kamp, John Schreffler, Jamie Douglass, Carl
Byron, Dan Wistrom, Gia Ciambotti, Nicole Gordon, and Aubrey Richmond
(whew!). Rock & Roll Voodoo Queen features six sassy tracks delivered
with plenty of guts, confidence, and attitude. Our favorite tracks are "Shoulda
Been My Lover," "Nashville, TN," and "Rock and Roll
Voodoo Queen." With a bit of luck this young lady could be playing
to huge crowds in the near future...
Furious
Jones - Bread & Circuses (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The first thing that caught our attention here was the voice. At
a point in time when folks either mope or try to sing way too perfectly,
Tom Smith's rough and raw vocals are a refreshing blast. Sounding
somewhat similar to a very young Rod Stewart or Robert Plant,
this guy can really belt out a tune. Providing the perfect backing beats
is Sarah Smith, an extraordinarily talented girl with a precise sense
of rhythm. Bread & Circuses is the first full-length release
from Furious Jones. It's a hard hitting collection of modern pop/rock
tracks featuring driving beats, cool guitar riffs and, of course, those
trademark vocals that will grab even the most jaded listener by the throat.
Lots of folks have already taken notice of this band and their full-length
will no doubt be the release that really puts them on the map. Cool tracks
include "Never," "Bread & Circuses," "Lovin'
Hold," and "Cookoo Song."
Jenny
Gillespie - Chamma (CD, Narooma, Pop)
Highly melodic and moving modern pop from Jenny Gillespie. The story
of how Chamma came to be is somewhat lengthy and involved. So we'll
just sum the story up by saying this time around Ms. Gillespie decided to
experiment with some new approaches to recording. The resulting tunes are
heavenly, dreamy, and quite poignant. Chamma is housed in a beautifully-designed
digipak sleeve complete with lyric booklet with lyrics printed large enough
so you can actually read them (which is, of course, rare in the
world of compact discs). The impeccably recorded tracks on this album
feature subtle smooth vocals and dreamy orchestrations in the background.
Even though her music reminds us of dozens of other classic pop artists
from the past couple of decades, we can't come up with any obvious comparisons
for Jenny's music. She has a sound that is familiar and somewhat commercial
and yet...the artistic threads are obvious and substantial. The last track
(a remix of "Holidays") is somewhat of a surprise, delving into
more experimental territory than the rest of the album. Could be a sign
of things to come? This cool resilient album is chock full of great tracks.
Our favorites include "Holi," "Dragon Mother," "Chamma,"
and "Child of the Universe."
Gypsy
Lumberjacks - Pulling Upon the Strap
(Independently released CD, Carribean/flamenco/gypsy/jazz/bluegrass)
The guys in Gypsy Lumberjacks are probably never meant for superstardom.
And our guess is that this is probably okay with them. The songs on Pulling
Upon the Strap are a far cry from what sells in the commercial world
of music in 2014. True to the claim of the press release that accompanied
this disc, the album draws sounds and ideas from an array of different genres
including Caribbean, flamenco, gypsy, jazz, and bluegrass. And to make sure
folks can relate to it, there are threads of pop running through these tracks
as well. This is an album that sounds like real people playing real
music. None of that tweaked-to-perfection digital stuff here. Our guess
is that the folks who love this band really love 'em. They're playing
music that comes straight from the heart, and you can tell the main point
here was to first and foremost enjoy making the music. Nine smart cuts including
"Chichi Fria," "Caspian's March," and "What You
Wanted Here."
Neil
Innes & Fatso - Farewell Posterity Tour
(Double CD, Angel Air, Pop)
Although he's one of the most talented and unique musicians that the world
has ever produced, most folks out there in the world still don't know the
name Neil Innes. But they most certainly have heard him or have been
influenced by his music over the past few decades. Innes will probably always
be known best as a member of The Bonzo Dog Band, the Monty Python
sidekick who made music, or the man behind the criminally overlooked Rutles
(the Beatles parody band whose music was actually superior
to the real thing in many ways). But Innes has also done a tremendous
amount of work as as a solo artist, most of which he has never been properly
recognized for.Farewell Posterity Tour will appeal to those who love
Neil or to those wanting a proper introduction. This double disc set features
twenty-three tracks recorded live by Neil and original Rutles members Billy
Bremner, Brian Hodgson, Roger Rettig, and John Halsey. The set
includes Bonzo songs, Rutles tunes, and Neil's solo material...and it's
a riveting reminder of how much incredible material this man has written
over the years. We've been fans of this unique man's music for such a very
long time. Even if you have all of Neil's music already (we do),
you'll want to pick this up to hear these great live recordings. Everything
Innes touches is gold. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Inutili - Music To Watch The Clouds On A Sunny Day (CD, Aagoo, Experimental)
Experimental rock music from the unlikely city of Teramo, Italy. The word
Inutili means "pointless, useless, or unprofitable"...so
that may or may not give you an idea of what they sound like (?). If you
like progressive rock with experimental/explosive guitars, this one just
might rock your boat. It's definitely a drone kinda thing but not in a soft
comforting kinda way. Music To Watch The Clouds On A Sunny Day consists
of only two lengthy tracks. These recordings are spontaneous, harsh, and
at times extremely intense. Can you handle it? If this is the kinda thing
that's happening in the undercurrents of Italy these days...we wanna hear
more... Intriguing, different, and slightly sinister.
Kings and Queens
Use their power
To treat others
Like dirt.
Life
In A Blender - We Already Have Birds That
Sing (CD, Fang, Pop)
Life In A Blender is the six piece band comprised of Don Rauf
(vocals), Dave Moody (guitar, cello), Mark Lerner (bass),
Al Houghton (guitar), Ken Meyer (drums, cymbals, sound effects),
and Rebecca Weiner Tompkins (violin). These folks have a loose bluesy
pop sound that has really caught on with their continually growing fan base
around the world. In a way, some of these songs remind us of Camper Van
Beethoven while others have a markedly different sound. The main driving
force are Don Rauf's lyrics and vocals. The man has an instantly identifiable
voice that is the obvious focal point of these songs. But the arrangements
are also integral here, as each individual's contribution to the overall
sound is critical to the overall success. The album was recorded at Old
Soul Studios in Catskill, New York, so you know they sound great.
Seven well-executed cuts including "Tongue-Cut Sparrow," "Frankenstein
Cannot Be Stopped," and "To Sea In A Sieve."
The
Many Colored Death - Our Own Devices
(CD, Home Tone, Rock)
The folks in this hard-hitting Columbia, Missouri-based rock band hit a
home run. This is instantly one of our favorite releases of 2014. The songs
are loud, smart, propulsive, and the band has tons and tons of incredible
energy. So many bands in the twenty-first century are playing it safe and
tame. The musicians in The Many Colored Death play loud driving rock
music that features great fuzzy guitar riffs, dynamic bass lines, appropriately
focused vocals, and cool energized drums. And the best part is that the
songs themselves are dynamite (!). Seventeen gripping songs here
and they're all keepers. These three individuals have a great sound
and energy that could easily please millions of music fans. Yes, they're
that good. Not only is the music killer, but these guys also had
the good common sense to print a lyric poster which actually makes it possible
to read the lyrics (!). Our favorite tracks include "Fade In,"
"To Fly," "Bam," "Someone You Can Love," and
"Perchance To Dream." We sure hope this band gets the kind of
support they deserve. Hard rockin' music with guts and brains. The guitar
playing on this album is absolutely THE BEST (!!!). Top pick.
Music
For Money - Toro (CD, Erektrik,
Progressive)
Don't let the name mislead you. Music For Money isn't really
music made to make money. The folks in this Canadian band seem to be making
a point with their band name...because they're obviously not creating the
kind of sellout crap people create who really are making music for
money. We were mighty impressed with the last release from this Canadian
band...and we're pleased to report that Toro is yet another solid
addition to their catalog. The band is comprised of Myriam Boucher
(piano, keyboards), Pierre-Luc Lecours (guitars), Jeremie Jones
(electric and upright bass), and Francois Girouard (drums). To our
ears, the tracks on this album sound very much like the soundtrack to an
underground film. The songs have nice flowing qualities and they are threaded
with slight hints of psychedelia. These folks know how to create a vibe
and stay in it. Nine well-crafted cuts here including "Toro,"
"Laser Frog," "Deathfighter," and "Rossignol Mystique."
NRBQ - Brass Tacks (CD, Clang, Pop)
How many bands can you think of from the 1960s that are still making credible
music today? Not many. Not many at all. Begun in 1966, many folks may very
well be surprised at how fresh and real the guys in NRBQ are sounding
in 2014. The band has released more than twenty studio albums, a dozen live
albums, and they have played all over the world time and time again. And
yet...they still manage to have a cool inviting sound that always appeals
to their fans. On this album the band is comprised of Terry Adams
(keyboards, vocals), Scott Ligon (guitar, vocals), Conrad Choucroun
(drums), and Casey McDonough (bass, vocals). The band's original
songs are super strong and resilient. And this time around they even include
an interesting cover of the Rodgers & Hammerstein tune "Getting
To Know You." Listening to this, it becomes obvious why these guys
continue to be popular not only with music fans but also among their fellow
artists and peers. Twelve well-crafted cuts here including "Waitin'
On My Sweetie Pie," "Sit In My Lap," "I'd Like To Know,"
and "Can't Wait To Kiss You."
The
Oak Ridge Boys - Boys Night Out (CD,
Cleopatra, Country)
How many bands can you think of that have been around for four decades WITHOUT
releasing a live album? Incredible as it may sound, during the entire course
of their forty-one year career, the Oak Ridge Boys have never released
a live album...until now. The band has a large and devoted fan base
and those folks will no doubt be delighted by this fourteen track album.
Pretty much all the band's best known hits are included here, presented
with all the energy and passion present in a live performance setting. We
were surprised that the album is being released by the folks at Cleopatra
because we normally associate the label with progressive rock music (?).
Perhaps this is a sign that Cleopatra is branching out into other areas.
The Oak Ridge Boys are one of the solid staple country bands in the United
States. Spin this live album once or twice and you'll hear why. These guys
obviously still love what they're doing and that sense of pride and confidence
rings through loud and clear. Nice slick country pop cuts include "You're
The One," "Fancy Free," "Sail Away," "Make
My Life With You," and "Bobbie Sue."
Oculus - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by The Newton
Brothers (CD, Varese
Sarabande, Motion picture soundtrack)
We've always been intrigued by the idea that other worlds exist behind mirrors.
The idea has been examined in Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking
Glass as well as the hokey pokey episode of Lost In Space where
Penny and Will Robinson fall into a mirror and meet the man
who lives in a parallel universe. The film Oculus deals with the
same basic idea but in a different overall context. The story involves two
children, Tim and Kaylie. As a child, Tim is convicted of killing their
parents. After many years he is released from protective custody and wants
to move on with his life. But sister Kaylie is convinced that the murder
was somehow the result of an antique mirror that was in their childhood
home. She manages to reacquire the mirror...and that's when things begin
to get strange. After reading the plot, this one is instantly bumped up
on our list of must see films. As if the storyline isn't enough, the music
created by The Newton Brothers is nothing short of magnificent.
Rather than present easy and/or familiar sounds, the brothers come up with
a soundtrack that is simultaneously hypnotic, puzzling, and uneasy. If you're
like us...and totally dig bizarre horror soundtracks...Oculus will
be right up your alley. Thirty-six incredibly inventive cuts here that will
bend your mind and your perspective. Can't wait to see the film. Until then,
we'll be spinning this one in the dark... Top pick.
The
One2s - EP One (CD-R EP, Azteca, Pop/rock)
Groovy fuzzy modern pop/rock from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania's The One2s.
This band is comprised of Leiana (bass, vocals), Sean Bombz
(guitar, vocals), Jay Dyer (drums), and Julia Tasca (guitar,
vocals). We rarely cover EPs and only in cases where something really stands
out. These folks have a cool rockin' sound with driving beats and persistent
instruments that is somewhat hypnotic and slightly psychedelic. Only four
songs here, but they're all keepers...and they're proof that these folks
are off to a great running start. Our favorite cuts are "Wide Awake"
and "Running Out of Time."
Dolly
Parton - Blue Smoke (CD, Sony Masterworks, Country/pop)
Dolly Parton truly is the energizer bunny of country music.
While other stars have passed on, lost their pizzazz, or given up the ship,
Parton continues sailing along as if time is standing still. Very much like
Martha Stuart, over the years Dolly has marketed herself as something
of an iconic trademark used to sell music and to market her entertainment
parks. Whether you like her music or not, most folks admire Ms. Parton's
perseverance and tenacity. She's a determined hard working lady who has
certainly paid her dues. Blue Smoke is Parton's forty-second studio
album (!) and it is being jointly released by Dolly Records and Sony Masterworks.
In addition to more classic Dolly solo recordings, Smoke also features
a duet with Kenny Rogers ("You Can't Make Old Friends")
and a new recording of "From Here to the Moon and Back" with Willie
Nelson. This one's bound to sell well and provide further proof that
Dolly isn't going away anytime soon. Twelve tracks from one of country music's
original stars including "Blue Smoke," "Don't Think Twice,"
"Banks of the Ohio," and "If I Had Wings."
Rio
2 - Original Motion Picture Score: Music
by John Powell (CD, Sony
Classical, Motion picture score)
Rio 2 is the follow-up to the very popular Rio film that was
released in 2012. This animated film features the voices of a whole slew
of well-known folks and it's bound to be another blockbuster success. The
music for Rio 2 was composed by John Powell who is best known
as the creator of the scores for the Matt Damon Bourne film
trilogy. He has also become one of the most in-demand composers in the world
of family animated films, having created music for wildly popular movies
like Ice Age, Kung Fu Panda, Dr. Seuss' The Lorax and many more.
Rio 2 is bound to be one of the big success stories of Spring 2014.
The music is fresh, upbeat, and will appeal to anyone who ever loved the
sounds associated with Rio de Janeiro. This nineteen track album will appeal
to both adults and children and is yet another spellbinding addition to
Powell's ever-growing catalog. Smooth slick cuts include "20th Century
Fox Fanfare," "Stalking the Ferry," "Red Bullies,"
and "Battle for the Heart of the Forest."
Rise
of the Lion - Rise of the Lion (Independently
released CD, Rock)
This is not a formal review as this album was released in 2012. Rise
of the Lion is a killer hard rock band with a sound that is sometimes
reminiscent of Jane's Addiction. These guys have cool songs and a
nice big thick sound. The reason we're bringing this to your attention is
because the band has a brand new album (Miss May I) that has just
been released (click on link above). If the new album sounds anything like
this, we'd bet it's a real rocker...
Rotary
Downs - Traces (CD, Rookery,
Progressive pop)
You might have some idea of what a New Orleans band should sound like. If
so, you may be surprised at the sounds on Traces. The guys in Rotary
Downs have been making music for about ten years now and they've undergone
several changes/transformations during that time. The band's last album
released in 2010 (Cracked Maps & Blue Reports) was a critic's
favorite and generated a lot of interest in the band. These guys took their
time recording the follow up, and our guess is that fans will find it was
well worth the wait. NPR describes the Rotary Downs sound as psychedelic
art-pop which sums things up nicely. We would have to add the word groove
in there somewhere as well because once these guys get in a groove they
stay in it. A great deal of time and energy was obviously spent crafting
and recording these tunes. As hard as we've tried we can't come up with
any comparisons for these guys' sound. The tunes are decidedly familiar
sounding but we've yet to come up with possible influences...(?!). Our favorite
tracks include "Orion," "Country Killers," "The
Sandwich Islands" (our favorite, a particularly beautiful cut...),
and "Flowers In Bloom."
All those who follow
Are blind and
Shallow.
Kaela
Sinclair - Sun & Mirror (Independently
released CD, Pop)
For an up-and-coming new artist, Kaela Sinclair certainly has a slick
and commercial sound that could easily catapult her into superstardom. Originally
only released locally around her hometown of Denton, Texas, Sun &
Mirror is now being presented to a national audience. Sinclair has all
the ingredients most listeners want. Super polished pop, a velvety smooth
voice, a very strong visual image, lush arrangements, and a big overall
sound. Eleven tracks here including "Ghosts You've Won," "Original
Sin," and "Coral Castles."
If it looks
Like a duck and
Walks like a duck
It's probably
Tarter sauce.
Tina
and the B-Sides -Barricade (CD, Movement Recording Co., Pop)
The twenty-first century has seen some of the most surprising and unlikely
reunions and reformations in the world of music. You just never know which
band or artist is going to suddenly return from the past at any given time.
Tina and the B-Sides got their start in the 1980s but they experienced
most of their success in the 1990s after being signed to Sire Records. By
the end of the 1990s they decided to take a break and things went stagnant
until the band members got together again in 2009 the play a show at the
Minneapolis Zoo. The band line up is Tina Schlieske (vocals), Laura
Schlieske (vocals), Jeremy Plumb (bass), Troy Norton (lead
guitar), and Ron Caron (drums). These folks still play the kind of
bluesy rock that their fans came to know and love, but now the overall sound
is more current and polished. Housed in a cool digipak sleeve complete with
glossy lyric booklet, Barricade proves that this band is seriously
back up and running. Groovy rockers include "Barricade," "Fervor,"
"Call My Name," and "Guava Jelly."
Tunabunny - Kingdom Technology (Vinyl LP, Happy
Happy Birthday To Me, Pop/rock)
We've been barking about Tunabunny ever since we first heard them
a while back. This Athens, Georgia band has a totally groovy and rockin'
underground sound that is instantly appealing and cool. Folks who miss the
gritty harsh rock sounds of the 1990s will find a lot to love about
this band. Instead of the safe and honed-to-perfection sound that currently
makes most commercial artists sound like carbon copies of one another, Kingdom
Technology presents imaginative tracks that are simple, direct, and
intriguing. What blows our minds about this band is the fact that at this
point in time when they've already paid their dues, most bands would clean
up the sound and make it more commercial to reach more people. But the folks
in Tunabunny seem to be taking the exact opposite approach. This album will
confuse many folks to be sure. But listeners who like music that causes
them to think and reflect will find a lot to love here. These folks don't
need a big production and digital effects to get their point across. When
you've got good solid songs and you can really play like hell, all you really
need is a handful of tracks to make things work. Fourteen groovy cuts here...with
lots of surprises in store. This vinyl LP includes a card with a code for
a free download. We can't get enough of Tunabunny. Totally rockin' stuff!
TOP PICK.
Twink - Miniatures
Volume 2 (Mini-album download, Toy/pop)
We're longtime Twinkaholics here. And we will continue to be as long as
the one-and-only Mike Langlie continues recording and release his
completely unique brand of toy pop. Langlie has created a winning combination
of toy pop music mixed with images and graphics that can compete with the
very best graphic art on the planet. This time around Mike offers his friends
and fans a FREE download of the mini-album Miniatures Volume 2. Click
on the link above to download. Even though this one's free you can also
make a donation (smart). The album features nine teeny-tiny short
tracks that were created with the Yellofier Phone App and each one has artwork
of miniature mutant toy mash-ups. As usual, this is a totally intriguing
and infectious collection of songs that could only be created by Twink.
We would highly recommend any and every Twink release. There's no other
artist we can think of who we admire more. Highly recommended... TOP PICK.
Tyla
Gang - Live In Stockholm (CD, Angel Air, Rock/pop)
We'd be willing to bet that most folks didn't see this reunion coming. Struck
from the ashes of Ducks Deluxe by Sean Tyla and Nick Garvey
in 1972, Tyla Gang was originally on the Stiff Records roster in
Great Britain. The band had a good bit of success before the original line-up
disbanded in 1979. Switch to 2010...and the band reformed. Recorded on March
13, 2013 in Stockholm, Sweden, Live In Stockholm sounds nothing like
a band from the past that got back together. These guys have a hard-driving
Americana-type sound that is very similar to what many folks in the United
States are now listening to. For this show the band was comprised of Sean
Tyla, Bruce Irvine, Michael Desmarais, John McCoy,
and Max Lorentz. This was obviously an "on" night for the
band and those attending the show. These twelve tracks sizzle with all the
spontaneous excitement of a dynamic rock show played by professionals. The
sound is big and the playing is super tight. Hard rockers included in the
set are "Cannos of the Boogie Night," "Dust On The Needle,"
and "Texas Chainsaw Massacre Boogie."
Anne
Vanschothorst - EK IS EIK (CD, Big Round, Harp/instrumental)
Exquisitely beautiful music from Dutch harpist Anne Vanschothorst.
After spinning this album a few times and becoming mesmerized by it, we
kept trying to come up with words to describe the music. Then, after visiting
Anne's web site, we found a quote from her that sums everything up perfectly:
"...to be touched by the unsaid is the most profound."
Music is a fluid medium that transmits ideas, feelings, and emotions. And
people use words to convey feelings, most likely because that is the language
most easily understood by everyone. But when an artist can more effectively
convey thoughts and feelings through instruments alone, that is something
truly rare and special. And that is precisely why EK IS EIK succeeds.
Vanschothorst puts more emotion into her harp than anyone we've ever heard
before. The compositions on this album are smart, precise, reflective, exacting,
and purely beautiful. Anne's music has already been used in independent
films as well as shows on the Discovery Channel and the PBS series
Closer To Truth. Forging a career playing the harp isn't the easiest
task on earth. But Anne plays with such natural confidence that she makes
it come across completely natural and inspired. Eleven hypnotic cuts here
including "Where's Mo?", "When We Were Trees," "Strange
Bird," and "And The Willow Tree Smiled." Intricate dreamy
music. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Verskotzi - Lemon Heart (CD, Princess,
Modern pop)
Verskotzi is the Minneapolis, Minnesota-based quartet comprised of
Joey Verskotzi, Izaac Burkhart, Grady Kenevan, and Ian Allison.
Lemon Heart is the band's first full-length album...and it's a knockout.
We were mighty impressed with the band's last EP (Lesson Learned)
that was released in 2012. These folks have created a modern pop album that
will be an instant hit with pop music fans wanting something inventive,
infectious, and substantial. Lemon Heart succeeds on many different
levels. The songs can be listened to as a form of escape. Or if you're wanting
more than than, the lyrics will provide plenty of food for thought. Into
cool sounds and technology? You'll find plenty of both here. And if songs
are the main deal for you...then you'll be pleasantly surprised at how smart
and memorable these ten tracks are. And of course there are the vocals,
which are usually the weakest link with any artist or band. Joey Verskotzi
has a great velvety voice that is instantly appealing and genuine. Add all
the different ingredients together...and you have an album that is magically
moving and ultimately full of depth and warmth. We can't get enough of groovy
tracks like "Luck," "Burnt Yuppies," "The Flying
Piano," and "Diamond Ring" (which features one of the
most beautiful melodies we've heard in months). Highly recommended.
TOP PICK.
Noam
Weinstein - Bottlefed (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Noam Weinstein is one instantly likable guy. If you don't believe
us, go to his web site (link above) and peruse around a bit. This
guy has the all the right ideas about what he's doing and he comes across
like a very funny man who is cool and genuine. It would be hard to discuss
Noam's music without comparing him to Elvis Costello. He's by no
means a copycat artist, he's just a guy whose overall sound and vibe will
remind most listeners of Costello's more pensive side. Bottlefed
features a great cover photo of Noam walking around outside...but instead
of a beer can inside the bag in his hand it's a baby bottle. Inside the
sleeve you'll find him comfortably sitting in a baby crib, complete with
his electric guitar. But if you think that the songs are going to be jokes,
think again. This fellow manages to do things that would seem kinda dumb
if other folks did them. But Noam's cool inviting presence makes anything
possible. This twelve song album is simultaneously melodic, catchy, thought
provoking, and funny. If you love great FM radio pop from the 1970s
and 1980s, these songs will probably sound familiar. Weinstein takes the
basic sound of hit songs from that time period and updates them with twenty-first
century ideas. Nifty refreshing cuts include "Childproof," "I
Surrender," "The 80s," "GPS Lady," and "Advance
Beginner." Noam is one talented guy. And this is one smart album. Top
pick.
What
Moon Things - What Moon Things (CD,
Hot Grits, Progressive)
What Moon Things is the strangely-titled New Paltz, New York-based
trio comprised of Jake Harms, John Morisi, and Chris Kehoe.
Rather than play the type of safe, easy, familiar music folks folks in the
twenty-first century seem to want, these three guys are opting instead to
create music as art...with their main focus apparently being true to themselves.
This eight track album reminds us very much of the mid-1990s when there
were so many great underground guitar bands treading around the United States.
These songs are sometimes melodic...sometimes structured...sometimes harsh
and noisy...and often times unpredictable. Who does the band sound like?
Hard to say, really. Because these guys are playing their own brand of experimental
underground guitar rock, it's hard to compare their music to other bands.
Recorded in Morisi's apartment in New Paltz, this self-titled album was
mixed by Scott Nicholas and mastered by Jesse Magnum in Athens,
Georgia. If you love groovy loud guitars and strange distorted vocals, you
will want to check out these peculiar heavy tracks. At a point in time when
so many bands are playing it safe, it certainly is reassuring to hear folks
out there who aren't afraid to let loose and let things happen. Our favorite
cuts include "The Vampire," "Squirrel Girl" (whew!),
"Moon Things," and "Sun, Where's the Fire."
Travis
Whitelaw - Beer & Booty (CD, Skull
Bros, Country/pop)
If you're lookin' for somethin' with a serious slant, you'd be well-advised
to steer clear of this one. Travis Whitelaw is a comedian using music
in order to deliver his goofy redneck ramblings. To give an idea of where
this guy is coming from...imagine having Ray Stevens reappear in
2014 as a scruffy redneck swilling beer...and there you have it. Whitelaw
is playing for a very specific audience--folks who just wanna down a few
beers, laugh, and have a good time. But while Travis is mainly a comedian
spewing out irreverent lyrics for those who live to party, his band is not
a joke at all. We found a video of Whitelaw and his band playing
"Chokin' the Chicken" live at Banjo Jim's and we were mighty impressed
at how damn good they are. So there is some solid real playing goin' on
here behind the crazy lyrics. This is either your kinda thing or it just
ain't. Ten whoopin' cuts includin' "Shootin' Beer Cans Off My Fence,"
"Hillbilly Filly," Dumass," and "Blue Balls."
The
Wonder Revolution - WOW (CD, Air House, Progressive pop)
Remarkable stuff. Simply...remarkable. On this album from The
Wonder Revolution, guitarist David Lord collaborates with Les
Easterby (The World Palindrome)...and the results are substantial
and far reaching. If you like heady, dreamy, well-produced modern pop with
a difference, you will find plenty to appreciate here. The appropriately
titled WOW features songs that are more like dreams than pop compositions.
The melodies are smooth, the songs have cool drifting qualities, and the
layered instruments, sounds, and vocals are absolutely hypnotic. Some folks
might compare this to Sufjan Stevens but such a comparison is much
too easy and inadequate. These songs are from an almost entirely different
universe, a slightly surreal world where the overall sound is more important
than the individual variables. The more we spin this one, the more baffling
and complex it seems. Eleven superbly crafted songs that don't sound like
all the rest. Our initial favorites include "Breathing With A Butterfly,"
"Clusters," "Tree Woman," "Walking Under Petals,"
and "You Can't See It." Highly recommended... TOP PICK.
The world is
Bad.
A
Activator - Activator
Seth Adam - Steel tempered pride
Juan Alamo - Marimjazzia
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
Marie Nelson Bennett - Orpheus lex
Bezobratri - Bezobratri
Bim Skala Bim - Chet's last call
Erica Blinn - Lovers in the dust
Blue Skies for Black Hearts - Blue Skies for Black Hearts
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
Eileen Careyk - Let it go
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
Falling Birds - Native America EP
Fankhauser Cassidy Band - On the blue road
Far West - Any day now
Fearing & White - Tea and confidences
Julian Fleisher - Finally
Footnotes - Comin' home
Foundations - Modern works in the clasical tradition
Jeremy Fox - With love
Carl Franklin - Been a while
Morgan Frazier - Morgan Frazier
Frozen - Original soundtrack
Amos Funk - Black rose
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
Nancy Goudinaki - I wanna be your star
H
Matt Hannah - Let the lonely fade
Hard Soul - Seize the year
Dave & Emma Hart - Hold on
Cyndi Harvell - Heartache & revolution
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
I Love Rich - Respect the rich
Il Rumore Bianco - Mediocrazia
Indies Scope - 2013
Intimate Dream - Wonderful thing
J
The JAC - Love dumb
Daena Jay - Subdivision
Noel Johnston - Salted coffee
Jokeless - Smoke free
Carolyn Lee Jones - The performer
Nate Jones Band - EP
Shaman Juan - Soothsayer
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
Jim Mize - Jim Mize
Moistboyz - 5
Mike Montrey Band - Song by song by song
Monuments Men - Original motion picture soundtrack
Ken Will Morton - Slow burn
Motel Life - Original motion picture soundtrack: Score by David Holmes and
Keefus Ciancia
Mud - Original motion picture soundtrack: Score by David Wingo
My Education - 5 popes
N
Namb - Namb
Nekozurashi - Ahostractions
Nine Times Blue - Matter of time
Nissy - Program the hissing thing
Non-Stop - Original motion picture soundtrack
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
Alexandra Ottaway - Tetrahedron dreams
P
Charlie Parr - Hollandale
Period 2 - Period 2
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
Edward Rogers - Kaye
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 Scam
Shameless - Music from the television series
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
Toothe - Talons EP
U
Ugly Quartet - Mars needs Maurice
Unrepeatable Quartet - Edmonton 2012
The Use - What's the use?
V
Vices - Vices
Videoing - Treasure house EP
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
Winchester Revival - Eyes in the canopy
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
