October 2014 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews from
aka 
Stream "Right Through It"
A
Walk Among The Tombstones - Original Motion
Picture Soundtrack: Music by Carlos Rafael Rivera (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
This film is based on the bestselling series of mystery novels written by
Lawrence Block and stars Liam Neeson. It tells the story of
a private investigator who helps a heroin trafficker find the men who kidnapped
and murdered his wife. The music for the film was created by Carlos Rafael
Rivera. Rivera graduated from the USC Thornton School where he studied
with Don Crockett and Stephen Hartke. Not only does he compose
for film, but he also has various connections with the world of popular
music. At one point he opened for The Who at the Hollywood Bowl and
his guitar playing has appeared on feature soundtracks such as Crash
and Dragonfly. The music for the film A Walk Among The Tombstones
is, as you might expect, rather moody and peculiar. This soundtrack has
a different overall vibe... it doesn't sound similar to other twenty-first
century film soundtracks. A lot of this music is very subdued and strange,
with very precise and specific arrangements that really give it a bizarre
otherworldly sound. This is one of those albums that sounds really great
turned up L-O-U-D. Thirteen creative cuts including "Kenny's Story,"
"Ray Cases The House," and "Among The Tombstones."
J.J. Barrie - No Charge (CD, Angel
Air, Country/pop)
If we didn't know better we would have sworn these tracks were recorded
in Nashville, Tennessee. J.J. Barrie is the pseudonym used by Barry
Authors when he was recording country/pop music in the 1970s and 1980s.
Barrie had one single that really hit the target. "No Charge"
was a number one hit in England that, at the time, knocked Abba out
of that slot. Barrie was responsible for the song selection on this disc
which collects tracks from his previous albums. This collection will hopefully
re-introduce folks to Barrie's upbeat country/pop toe tappers. With Americana
music at an all-time high in terms of popularity and sales, folks very well
might be in the mood to revisit this artist's contributions to the world
of music. Seventeen upbeat melodic tracks here including "Lucille I
Got A Honey Of A Deal," "No Charge," "Bottle Of Gin,"
"Gypsy Woman," and "Sweet Was My Rose." After his involvement
in the world of music, Authors began writing screenplays and opened a development
company in Shepperton Studios in England. After that, he moved back to Canada
where he now resides. An interesting overview.
Big
Brother On Acid - Big Brother On Acid
(CD, Alrealon Musique,
Techno/experimental/psychedelic)
Wow, what a great name for a band...and we're pleased to report that
in this particular case the band name is a perfect fit for the music. We
loved the 1990s when so many up-and-coming artists were using computers
and synthesizers to create some really bizarre trippy music. If you loved
that kinda stuff, there's a good chance you'll flip your wig over Big
Brother On Acid. The band is the project created by Brooklyn, New York's
Mister G (who also records and releases under a variety of other
pseudonyms). You could call this dance music...club music...rave music...or
experimental electronica. But whatever you call it, it's music meant to
create a mood. And these eleven tracks certainly create moods. Plenty of
wild sounds abound here and the overall vibe is upbeat and fun. Kickass
cuts include "Friday Night," "Saturn," and "Illegal
Space Aliens." Cool stuff from another universe.
Peppino
D'Agostino - Penumbra (Independently
released CD, Guitar/instrumental)
Man oh man can this man play acoustic guitar (!). Peppino D'Agostino
truly is one of those musicians who can make his guitar speak. Intricate,
focused, and precise, this man's guitar playing can touch parts of the heart
and soul that cannot be touched by the human voice. Penumbra is a
pure album featuring nothing but D'Agostino and his guitar. The album features
well-chosen covers (including two songs written specifically for Peppino
by Latin Grammy Award winner Sergio Assad) as well as original songs
written for people that are important in Peppino's life. D'Agostino has
won several awards for his music and also co-founded The Pacific Guitar
Ensemble with David Tanenbaum in 2010. Cool, breezy, and ultimately
melodic...these tracks are pure heaven. Our favorites include "Penumbra,"
"Valse des Anges," "Incantation," and "The Blue
Ocean."
Billy
Thermal - Billy Thermal (CD, Omnivore Recordings, Pop)
What an interesting treasure unearthed by the folks at Omnivore Recordings.
Though this album was recorded over thirty years ago it was never released
in its entirety until now. This early 1980s band featured the songwriting
talents of a young man named Billy Steinberg. Named after the town
where his family's table grape business was located, Billy Thermal
recorded an album for Richard Perry's Planet Records (home of The
Pointer Sisters). Five of the tracks eventually made their way onto
a 1980s EP but the original album has remained in the vaults until now.
You might not know Billy's Steinberg's name but you've certainly heard his
music. Steinberg has written and/or co-written many hugely popular songs...including
Madonna's "Like A Virgin," Linda Ronstadt's "How
Do I Make You," Cyndi Lauper's "True Colors," Whitney
Houston's "So Emotional," and Roy Orbison's "I
Drove All Night"...and that's just the beginning. After Billy Thermal
dissolved, Steinberg teamed up with songwriter/vocalist Tom Kelly
and together the two formed the band I-10 which sparked a longtime
writing partnership. But here's where it all started...with some early new
wave-ish recordings, many of which were never heard by anyone. Interesting
for a variety of different reasons, these recordings show what a great spark
Steinberg had...and what spawned a long and very rewarding career in the
world of music. In addition to the original twelve tracks recorded for the
album this disc also includes three demo recordings. Hats off to the folks
at Omnivore for making this available.
The
Boxtrolls - (Motion picture, Laika)
Wow. One of the best films we have ever seen. This was produced
by the folks at Laika who also created Coraline (one of our
favorite films of all time). Do yourself a favor and see this film. Major
motion pictures don't have to pander to the oceans of stupid people
in movie theaters. This one's smart...unusual...thought provoking...visually
mindblowing...and totally mesmerizing. Stupid people won't understand it.
Go see it. You won't regret it.
Kenny
Butterill - Troubadour Tales (CD, No Bull Songs, Americana/pop)
This album took about ten years to complete...and the timing of the release
couldn't be better. Interest in Americana/pop music is now at an all-time
high. So we'd guess that Troubadour Tales will be welcomed with open
arms. Canada's Kenny Butterill (who also lives in Northern California)
has a nice friendly sound and his songs come across sounding completely
genuine and honest. The press release that accompanied this disc stated
that Kenny's influences include J.J. Cale, Gordon Lightfoot,
John Prine, and Donovan Leitch (who appears as a guest artist
on the tune "Gaia Blues"). We can hear traces of all of these
artists (and more) in these tracks. Butterill's songs are built around a
gently strummed acoustic guitar and his melodies flow by like a cool mountain
stream. More than twenty musicians lent their talents here so it may surprise
some that these cuts have a nice sparse overall sound. This album is housed
in a beautifully designed digipak sleeve complete with a thick lyric booklet
that makes it easy to read along with each song. This one's bound to go
over big with anyone who loves good solid folk/pop and/or Americana. Thirteen
cool tracks including "Good Thing That Couldn't Happen Here,"
"Hocus Pocus," "Dead End of the Dirt Road," and "Woman
In A Canoe."
The
Carmonas - The Carmonas (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The Carmonas is the Nashville, Tennessee-based trio comprised of
Aaron Carmona, Alison Carmona, and Chad Carmona. This
is a very strong debut album from a band who is proving that folks in Nashville
will embrace all kinds of different genres of music if they are delivered
with style. This self-titled album features strong songwriting and expert
playing. These three individuals write pop songs that incorporate threads
of folk and bluegrass into the mix. The vocals are clear and way out in
front so you can understand each and every word. The Carmonas have already
been embraced by the music community and they have a quickly growing fan
base across the country. This album is sure to garner some strong reactions
because of the classic sound of the tunes. Eleven well-crafted cuts here
including "Into The Sun," "Human Hurricane," "Corner
Of The World," and "When You're Older."
Cinema
Cinema - A Night at the Fights (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Here in 2014 when it seems as if 90 percent of the artists out there are
ultra timid and careful, the guys in Cinema Cinema aren't afraid
to turn things up really loud and push themselves to the limit.
These two guys do more with less...which instantly sets them apart from
the vast majority of twenty-first century musicians. Cinema Cinema
is the duo of Ev Gold (vocals, guitar) and Paul Claro (drums).
These guys' recorded sound is most definitely the sound of them playing
live. They don't use additional instruments and they don't layer everything
to death. A Night at the Fights was recorded and produced by Martin
Bisi who has worked with Swans, Dresden Dolls, and more.
This album features loud rip roaring tunes played like there's no tomorrow.
We sure wish other artists would take the path these guys have chosen and
strip down their sound. That was one of the wonderful things about many
mid- to late-1970s bands who used only the basics in order to get their
point across. Eight loud gripping tracks here including "Broad Daylight,"
"Boxcutter," and "Shiner No. 4." Top pick.
Dawn
of the Planet of the Apes - Motion Picture
Soundtrack: Music by Michael
Giacchino (CD, Sony
Classical, Film soundtrack)
We haven't seen this film yet but we did view the brief trailer. It's amazing
how far they've come with the apes in the Planet of the Apes series. They've
become so real, especially their facial expressions. Just goes to show how
computers and digital technology have changed the way we create and view
films. Dawn of the Planet of the Apes deals with conflict between
man and ape that will decide which will dominate the earth (which sounds
very much like current human conflicts on our planet). The music for this
film was created by Michael Giacchino who has previously created
music for the films Ratatouille, Up, and The Incredibles.
This lengthy album features close to 78 minutes of music (!) and an unbelievably
long list of musicians who played in the orchestra. Giacchino's preference
in film soundtracks is to combine clear melodies and themes with touches
of atonality...which explains the intriguing tension in many of these tracks.
Whether you see the film or not, the soundtrack will provide many repeated
hours of pure entertainment. Nineteen cuts here including "Level Plaguing
Field," "Monkey See, Monkey Coup," and "Primates For
Life."
DieAlps! - DieAlps! (CD EP, New
Granada, Pop)
The debut EP from Central Florida's DieAlps! This band has quickly
been garnering fans and attention in the Florida music scene. And now with
the release of their self-titled debut EP they're planning on transferring
some of that success to other parts of the country and beyond. Recorded
by the band in their home studio, this EP presents a band that is decidedly
mature and focused. These five songs remind us very much of some of the
more precise and rewarding underground pop bands we loved in the mid-1990s
when the home recording scene was really beginning to explode. If this is
any indication of things to come, you can expect to see and hear a whole
lot about this band in the very near future. Kickass pop tracks include
"Walking," "Riot Command," and "All Things Shall
Come To An End." Top pick.
Distorted
Harmony - Chain Reaction (Independently
released CD, Metal/progressive/rock)
The second full-length release from Israel's Distorted Harmony. To
quote directly from the press release that accompanied this disc, the band
"...started as a concept by a frustrated jazz pianist and was formed
in 2009 when founder Yoav Efron (keyboards/producer) teamed up with
Yogev Gabay (drums). The two were later joined by Misha Soukhinin
(vocals, Iggy Jackson-Cohen (bass) and Guy Landau (guitars)."
So this gives you some background on the band. Chain Reaction is
an intense, hard-hitting album featuring tracks that combine heavy metal,
progressive, and rock sounds into a cohesive whole. The overall sound reminds
us of the 1990s when there were so many ultra-loud death metal bands roaming
around the planet. Nine hard rockers here including "Every Time She
Smiles," "As One," and "Methylene Blue."
Treat other people
Like you yourself
Would like to see
Them treated.
Amy
Fairchild - Amy Fairchild (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Amy Fairchild should already be a superstar. It's been about 20 years
since she released her first album (She's Not Herself). Amy followed
that up with the well-received Mr. Heart in 2002. Afterward she took
a break from recording, although a live album (Amy Fairchild Live)
was released in 2004. This self-titled album is not only an excellent return
to form but also quite possibly might be the breakout album for her. Spinning
this disc is like listening to a collection of hits. Any one of these eleven
tracks would, in a perfect world, be hugely popular. Fairchild's melodies
stick in the brain like glue, her words are intuitive and resilient, and
she's got a voice that really cuts through the mix. Produced by Adam
Steinberg, these tracks have a nice slick sound without ever sounding
over produced. The more we spin this one...the more impressed we are. Amy
Fairchild truly is an artist whose time has come. Our favorite cuts include
"Situation," "Pieces," "Oh Marie," and "Love
Love Love." Top pick.
Fayssoux - I Can't Wait (CD, Red
Beet, Pop/country/folk)
You may not recognize her name but chances are you've already heard Fayssoux
McLean. She was responsible for those heavenly harmony vocals on some
of Emmylou Harris' best known recordings. Over the past few years
McLean has stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist and she's making
some truly amazing and resilient music. I Can't Wait features well-chosen
cover songs as well as originals. McLean is fond of co-writing with other
songwriters and several of these are included here. Produced by Peter
Cooper and Thomm Jutz, this album has a nice smooth organic sound
and the songs are never overproduced. For every well-known performer in
Nashville, Tennessee there are always tons of equally talented folks supporting
them. This is most certainly one of those cases. Fayssoux's music is sincere
and heartfelt and she comes across sounding like a real person singing real
songs. All of these tracks are keepers but our own particular favorites
include "I Can't Wait," "My Brain," "Golightly
Creek," "Find Your Own Light," and "Ragged Old Heart."
Georgia.
The state that
Ain't so
Great.
Melissa
Giges - Just When I Let Go (CD, ECR Music Group, Pop)
Smooth groovy soft pop. Melissa Giges won herself a devoted fan base
when she released her debut album (Evident) a while back. And now,
after having her music featured on several national television shows, her
latest album is bound to fan the flames of her career even higher. Just
When I Let Go features ten well written and well arranged modern pop
songs with a heavy emphasis on vocal melodies and lyrics. These songs are
layered with just the right ingredients and Melissa's vocals are exceptional
throughout. She writes all of her own songs and every single one comes off
sounding credible and real. Some of these tracks bear a slight resemblance
to some of Kate Bush's early material. If you love keyboard-based
pop and appreciate genuinely talented ladies in the world of music, you
won't do much better than this. Just When I Let Go is a solid album
chock full of memorable melodies and intelligent lyrics. Our favorite cuts
include "Audience," "The Show's About To Begin," "I
Was The Criminal," and "Let's Go Home."
Sid
Griffin - The Trick Is To Breathe (CD,
Prima, Americana/soft pop)
It's been about ten years since Sid Griffin released his last solo
album so his fans will obviously welcome The Trick Is To Breathe
with wide open arms. Griffin is best known as a member of the The Long
Ryders, a band that is legendary among music fans for playing cowpunk
and alt-country years before such terms even existed. In addition to writing
and recording solo, Sid is also a guitarist in the band The Coal Porters.
If you want a quick overview of what this man has accomplished over the
past few decades, click on his web site (above) and you'll find a wealth
of information. Last year Griffin, who now lives in London, sent some of
his friends in Nashville, Tennessee demos of some new songs. His pals learned
the songs and then Sid came over to Nashville to record the the album with
them. Interestingly, Griffin had never played with most of the musicians
on the album. The Trick Is To Breathe is a nice smooth listening
experience with an overall organic sound. Sid's voice is sounding mighty
fine these days. Credible well-crafted cuts include "Ode To Bobbie
Gentry," "Circle Bar," "Who's Got A Broken Heart,"
and "I'll Forget You Very Well." Griffin is staying mighty busy
these days. This year he's playing concert dates overseas and will be returning
to the United States again in 2015 to play some dates here.
Hannibal - Original Television Soundtrack: Music by Brian Reitzell
- Season 1, Volume 1 (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack), Original Television Soundtrack: Music by Brian Reitzell
- Season 1, Volume 2 (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack), Original Television Soundtrack: Music by Brian Reitzell
- Season 2, Volume 1 (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack), Original Television Soundtrack: Music by Brian Reitzell
- Season 2, Volume 2 (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack)
The folks at Lakeshore were kind enough to send not one but four
of the new soundtrack albums featuring music from the popular television
series Hannibal. We totally dig the darker side of soundtrack music,
so these are most certainly right up our alley. All four feature music composed
by Brian Reitzell. Brian was once the drummer in babysue favorite
Redd Kross, has collaborated with the band Air, and is currently
a member of TV Eyes (which also includes Roger Joseph Manning,
Jr. and Jason Falkner). Plus he records and releases music under
his own name (his first solo album entitled Auto Music was released
this year). The tracks on these soundtracks are, as one would expect, moody
and peculiar. And they are certainly one of the reasons the show itself
is so effective. Reitzell is a master craftsman, creating his music with
acute attention to detail. These compositions go all over the place in terms
of sounds and styles. The music ranges from atmospheric to ambient to progressive
to rock to experimental...and that's just the beginning. If you love imaginative
soundtrack recordings or if you love the Hannibal television
series, you owe it to yourself to hear these albums. The music works beautifully
as the soundtrack to the television show...but it's even more riveting
hearing it in an isolated environment so you can concentrate on all the
wonderfully subtle sounds. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Haunted
Heads - Haunted Heads (CD EP, Double Plus Good, Rock/pop)
The guys in the Oshkosh, Wisconsin-based band Haunted Heads return
with another smart and hard hitting collection of guitar-driven pop/rock.
Interestingly, the first and fourth songs on this EP ("V V," "FYTT")
remind us very much of AC Newman (The New Pornographers).
But the guys in Haunted Heads are actually much louder and rock a lot harder
than such a comparison might imply. The press release that accompanied this
disc compared the music to Superchunk, Guided By Voices, and
The Wrens...and we can hear traces of all of these as well. The more
we spin this one the better these tracks sound. Gripping super catchy cuts
include "V V," "The Other Side Of Your Dream," "FYTT,"
"Echoes," and "No Word." Haunted Heads is one of our
favorite guitar pop/rock bands this year because they're doing everything
right. Top pick.
Hercules - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Fernando
Velazquez (CD, Sony Classical,
Soundtrack)
This film ought to have an instant built-in audience, considering people's
fascination with super heroes and pumped up bodies. Considering how many
personalities from the past have been revisited, it seems somehow odd that
the story of Hercules has been almost forgotten over the past few decades.
Well that's all changed now with the release of the latest Hercules films.
The film Hercules stars Dwayne Johnson in the title role.
It is based on the graphic novel titled Hercules: The Thracian Wars
and it follows on the heels of another movie that was entitled The Legend
of Hercules. The music for Hercules was composed by Spanish-born
orchestral music, television, and film composer Fernando Velazquez.
These tracks were recorded with the London Philharmonia Orchestra and, in
Fernando's own words, "The music tries to capture this kindness
along with the great strength. It sounds modern and yet if feels classical
as it is completely symphonic, even when incorporating electronics and all
kinds of modern drums." There's definitely a lot of strength and
dignity in these meticulously-recorded tracks. Film goers and classical
music buffs will find a lot to love in these twenty-five tracks that clock
in at over sixty-five minutes (!). Classy smart compositions include "Son
of Zeus," "I Will Believe In You," "The Statue Falls,"
and "Comrades Stand Together."
The
Hobbes Fanclub - Up At Lagrange (CD,
Shelflife, Pop/rock)
The debut full-length release from the Bradford, England-based band The
Hobbes Fanclub. These folks make music that recalls the 1990s when underground
guitar bands seemed to be just about everywhere. Those days may (sadly)
be gone...but they make us appreciate those ultra cool bands out there who
aren't afraid to turn up their guitars and have fun. This band is the trio
comprised of Leon Carroll (vocals, guitar), Louise Phelan
(bass, vocals), and Adam Theakston (drums). The songs on Up At
Lagrange are presented simply, without incorporating many of the obstacles
that litter most twenty-first century recordings. So what you get here...are
tracks that pretty much sound like a real band playing real
music. If you like distorted guitars, reverb, and nice reflective melodies
you'll find a lot to love here. We dig every single track, but our initial
favorites include "Into The Night," "The Boy From Outer Space,"
and "Up At Lagrange." We'll be spinning this one for months to
come. Recommended. Top pick.
Holly
& Plastic - We Will Give This World
Away (CD, Double
Plus Good, Rock/pop)
Gripping, hard-hitting underground rock/pop from Holly & Plastic,
the moniker created by Andrew Johnson who listeners may already know
for his connections with h. Chinaski and Happy Haunted Heads
(both also on the Double Plus Good label). Holly & Plastic is a one
man band in which Andrew writes all the songs and plays all the instruments
and yet...these songs don't have the sterile canned sound that is sometimes
associated with solo recordings. Johnson has a cool knack for coming up
with friendly catchy songs. Some are more pop oriented while others have
a dense aggressive overall sound. This is a short album that clocks in at
just under thirty minutes. But in that amount of time Andrew makes it perfectly
clear that he is truly a voice to be reckoned with in 2014. Creative smart
tracks include "Normal Nightmares," "World," "Chasing
Ghosts," and "Let's Leave Her Here."
The
Howlin' Brothers - Live performance, September
19, 2014, 3rd & Lindsley,
Nashville, TN, Trouble (CD, Readymade,
Bluegrass/blues/rock/folk/Americana)
We've been big fans of the Howlin' Brothers ever since we heard their
Howl album that was released in 2013. The band followed up this year
with Trouble, which seems to have been even more widely embraced.
Produced and engineered by Brendan Benson and released on his Readymade
label, the album is more produced and varied than Howl. It features
thirteen tracks that delve into a variety of genres including bluegrass,
rock, blues, folk, Americana, and jazz. Some songs are rough and raw tracks
similar to what the band presented on Howl but also included are
some cuts that could appeal to a much wider audience. Our favorite tunes
include "Pour It Down," "Boogie," "Night and Day,"
"Hard Times," and "I Was Wrong." The band is the trio
comprised of Ben Plasse (upright bass, banjo), Ian Craft (fiddle,
mandolin, banjo), and Jared Green (guitar, harmonica). All three
sing lead vocals. Plasse, Craft, and Green met and began playing music together
while attending Ithaca College in Ithaca, New York...which may surprise
some since their music would lead most to conclude that they're from the
rural hills of North Carolina. These three fellows play wild upbeat music
that doesn't sound like other Americana bands currently out there on the
horizon. What most folks probably notice first about the music is how authentic
it sounds. We were fortunate enough to catch the band in concert recently
as they were on the bill with three other acts at 3rd & Lindsley
in Nashville, Tennessee as part of the Americana
Music Festival. Also on the bill were Suzy Bogguss, Jim
Lauderdale, and Moot Davis. The Howlin' Brothers started playing
around 10:00 PM and it sure was interesting to watch the reaction of the
crowd. Many of them were attending a conference specifically focusing on
Americana music and yet...when faced with truly authentic sounding
American music...some didn't seem to know just how to react. We were laughing
during a great deal of this concert because Ben, Ian, and Jared play music
that is so hyperactive and upbeat that it just made us feel giddy. We were
tapping our toes during the entire show. The band won over a lot of folks
with this performance but others seemed perplexed by the incredibly fast
and hard playing. When The Howlin' Brothers get goin' they're like a locomotive
plowing through a town. They play fast and they play hard. They're incredibly
focused in what they're doing and their singing has to be heard to be believed--these
guys have voices that can tear through walls. They come across sounding
much more like real hillbillies than former college students. The show consisted
mostly of songs from Howl and Trouble. These guys did an amazing
job winning over a lot of folks. But there certainly were also those who
did not seem to understand exactly where the trio was coming from. They
certainly aren't your conventional Americana trio. Ben, Ian, and Jared all
wore hats while playing...and they put on one helluva intense performance.
Plasse seemed to hold everything together with his fast and precise upright
bass while Craft and Green totally went off playing their instruments. We
particularly loved the tunes where Ian played bass drum with his foot while
playing banjo. And Jared's foot percussion/dancing during a few songs was
nothing short of amazing. All three guys have a stage presence that you
won't soon forget. They sing loud and you can tell that they're totally
immersed in their music. The overall feeling we got watching much of this
concert was that we were seeing bluegrass played with all the fury and intensity
of a punk band from 1975. We're totally in love with the concert hall 3rd
& Lindsley. It is certainly one of the most professionally run music
clubs in Nashville. Every time we've been there we've been blown away. We
loved The Howlin' Brothers' music heading into this show. Upon leaving,
we realized that these three guys have the potential to affect a huge segment
of the listening audience with their music. Because interest in Americana
is at an all time high, we can't help but think that--eventually--more and
more folks will be able to understand and digest the complex and intense
music that these guys create. If you're looking for easy and familiar processed
modern Americana you won't find it here. This band is taking the approach
of playing a brand of true and intense rural music from the past that has
been popular for decades...and then updating it with all the passion and
fury of three twenty-first century guys who have a whole lotta blazing energy
to spare. If these guys play anywhere near you, do yourself a favor and
go see 'em. It's an experience you'll never forget. Catch 'em now before
they get B-I.G. These guys are true hell raisers... TOP PICK.
Sarah
Wallin Huff - Soul of the Machine (CD,
Navona, Classical)
Sometimes the idea behind the music is just as interesting as the music
itself. According to the press release that accompanied this disc, the music
on this album "...explores the relationships between mechanical
structures, organic beauty, and identity." Now that might sound
a bit complex and heady, but after hearing the music on Soul of the Machine...you'll
get it. Sarah Wallin Huff presents three unusual compositions that
tackle some intriguing ideas and topics. Huff is a violinist and Professor
of Composition (and conductor of the Chamber Ensemble) at the Master's College
in Santa Clarita, California. Her music is quite complex and unusual and
yet...very easy to absorb and appreciate. There's a lot to take in here.
These three compositions clock in at over sixty-two minutes and incorporate
a wide variety of sounds and ideas. Our favorite is the wonderfully moody
and subtle "Gypsy Wanderer" which is divided into four sections
("Irreverently," "Grave," Con Brio," and "Rapide").
This piece features Maria Wozniakiewicz on violin and Karolina
Rojahn on piano and is nothing short of breathtaking. Another exceptionally
slick release from the fine folks at Navona.
In Sonitus Lux - Thundermoon (CD-R only, Stickfigure,
Progressive)
We've learned over time to always expect the unexpected from the folks at
Stickfigure. Thundermoon is a particularly unorthodox album. In
Sonitus Lux is the band/project created by Serson Brannen who
is also the man who created The Subliminator (an electronic/spoken
word project). What folks will most likely notice first about this album
is that it features Brannen playing a very unusual instrument called The
Hang. It's kinda hard describing exactly what it sounds like, you just have
to hear it. Joining Serson on these recordings is Jason Robert Elliott
on guitar and vocals. The length of the album tracks here will give you
some indication of the type of music presented. Two tracks clock in at over
20 minutes (!), another is over 12 minutes long, and the last track lasts
just over a minute. This is subtle moody stuff...kinda dreamy and hypnotic...kinda
trippy yet subtle and subdued. If you're looking for something to create
a mood for the evening, Thundermoon will do that. We love the fact
that (to quote directly from the press release) "The lyrics were
improvised during the recording." How cool is that? If you
love strange undercurrents in the world of music, this is one you'll want
to use for mind expansion...
Into
The Storm - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by Brian Tyler
(CD, Varese Sarabande,
Soundtrack)
Brian Tyler is one helluva productive guy. At this point in
his career he has composed and conducted music for over sixty films (!).
Plus, interestingly, he arranged and conducted the music for the latest
film logo for Universal Pictures and composed the music for the latest film
Marvel Studios film logo. He's also a multi-instrumentalist, playing instruments
such as drums, piano, guitar, bass, cello, various percussion instruments,
synthesizers, charangeo, bouzouki, and more. We can already tell we're gonna
enjoy this film. Into The Storm is about storms and tornadoes and
their disastrous effects on mankind. The music must surely be a perfect
fit for the visuals. Much of this stuff is wild, exciting, and full of energy.
There are moody, brooding moments to be certain...but the energized busy
musical sections are what will probably have folks gripping the seats of
their chairs in the theater. Tylor is one of the real pros out there...and
this soundtrack is yet another extremely detailed feather in his hat. Eighteen
inventive cuts including "Into The Storm," "Culmination,"
"Multiple Vortices," and "The Power of Nature." Wildly
riveting and intense.
Jenny
Jarnagin - Bullseye (Independently released
CD, Pop)
The tenth full-length release from Jenny Jarnagin. What initially
struck us most about this album is how direct the music is. So many
modern artists hide behind technology and layering to keep folks from realizing
that their music lacks substance. Ms. Jarnagin presents her songs simply
and never hides behind digital effects. We love one of the stories we read
on her web site. A few years back Jenny was going through her deceased grandfather's
belongings and the experience made her realize that music is what she would
most like to leave behind as her legacy. Since then she's made music her
main mission in life...and other folks are noticing. Jarnagin's songs are
smart, reflective, and personal...and she's got a superb voice that really
works magic on listeners. Instead of pushing her voice or sounding forced,
the words seem to flow naturally from her lips. This is a real person
making real music and, as such, Jarnagin immediately stands out from
the crowd. This is undoubtedly one of the most genuine sounding albums we've
heard this year. If you want to hear music that gives you the impression
that you are really getting to know another person...well then, Bullseye
truly will hit the bullseye. Our favorite cuts include "Zero To Hero,"
"Big Broken Heart," "In Every Way," "Can't Let
Go," and "Okie Girl."
Debra
Kaye - And So It Begins: Chamber Music &
Solos (CD, Ravello,
Classical)
We had an intuitive feeling this was going to be something special before
the music even began. The front cover of And So It Begins presents
a beautiful copper/gold tinted photograph of a picture window with some
various items sitting in the foreground. And on the back cover only a small
photo of the Debra Kaye appears, wearing shades...all the while inside
the musicians playing on the album are featured more prominently with more
conventional and recognizable publicity shots. This may seem like a small
observation, but it gave us the initial impression that Ms. Kaye is by no
means on an ego trip and probably prefers to let her music speak for itself.
And after hearing the music on this album, we knew we were right.
Kaye has degrees from Mannes College of Music and New York University and
currently is on the faculty of the Mannes College Preparatory Division.
Her classical compositions are laced with hints of jazz, folk, pop, and
world music...which gives them a somewhat exotic and unique sound and feel.
Amazingly, And So It Begins is Debra's debut album (!)...but
you'd never know it from listening to these perfectly executed tracks. Sixteen
cuts divided into eight different sections. This music is focused, inspirational,
and precise. This is an album that will surely stand the test of time.
Kool
Stuff Katie - Kool Stuff Katie (Independently
released CD, Pop/rock)
Wow, this one is right up our alley (!!). Kool Stuff Katie
is the Portland, Oregon-based duo of Shane Blem and Saren Oliver.
Blem found Oliver on Craigslist and the two have been making music together
ever since. The band has been making a name for themselves in clubs in and
around Portland and now, with the release of their first full-length album,
they're hoping to transfer that success to other parts of the country and
beyond. That shouldn't be too difficult, as this self-titled debut is a
totally fun and exciting spin. Produced by Steve Fisk (whose name
seems to be popping up all over the place lately), this album has a nice
direct sound and the tracks totally rock. The tunes are upbeat and
uplifting and the vocal melodies are simply wonderful. This is the kinda
stuff that really makes you wanna move. Ten groovy cuts here including "Hard
Girl To Know," "Three Shades of Red," "Simple,"
and "Rewind."
Heather
Kropf - Chrysalis (CD, Reverie,
Pop)
The fourth full-length release from Heather Kropf. Ms. Kropf writes
and records exceptionally sincere and real mid-tempo pop that is delivered
with honesty, integrity, and style. Born in Portland, Oregon, Heather
now lives in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania where she is highly respected as one
of the city's most promising singer/songwriters. Heather developed a strong
following with her first three albums that were released early in the twenty-first
century. But just after her third album (Hestia) was released in
2009, she was diagnosed with the Epstein Barr virus which caused her to
retire for the next three years to recuperate. But rather than be beaten
down by the experience, she began a Kickstarter campaign that funded the
recording of Chrysalis. Heather's fans are obviously loyal and devoted
and willing to stand behind her. The songs on Chrysalis are smart,
memorable, and reflective. The lyrics are exceedingly intelligent and personal
and they're delivered with a true genuine spirit. Kropf has an incredible
voice that is perfectly suited for the style of songs she writes. You can
bet your booties that this album will still sound great decades from now.
This music is timeless. Well-conceived cuts include "Ghost In
My House," "Harvest and Snow," and "Valentine."
Lunchbox - Lunchbox Loves You (CD-R only, Jigsaw,
Pop)
Cool underground guitar pop from Seattle, Washington's Lunchbox.
The folks in this band eventually changed their name to Birds of California...but
then opted to change their name back to Lunchbox. Smart move...cuz
we love the band name (it sure fits the music). There's so
much overprocessed music in the world today. Perhaps that's why the tunes
on this album are so refreshing and real. The folks in this band opt to
keep things extremely simple and direct, offering their tunes using only
the essential ingredients in order to get the point across. But songs are
what matter most, of course...and songs are what make Lunchbox Loves
You such a totally cool spin. These folks have a sparkling smart sound
that reminds us of some of the cooler underground bands in Great Britain
in the 1990s. Whether the tune features male or female vocals or both...this
band's cool bubblegummy pop sound is sure to put you in a great frame of
mind. Our favorite tracks include "Everybody Knows," "Will
You Be There?", "I Go Mad," and "Tonight Is Out Of Sight."
Maps
To The Stars - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by Howard Shore (CD, Howe,
Soundtrack)
This sounds like our kind of film. Maps To The Stars was written
by Bruce Wagner, directed by David Cronenberg, and features
the music of iconic soundtrack composer Howard Shore. Cronenberg
and Shore have worked together many times in the past. This is, in fact,
the fifteenth Cronenberg film featuring Shore's music (!). And this time
it's particularly mind boggling and intriguing. This soundtrack was the
winner of the 2014 Cannes Soundtrack Award. One spin and you'll see why.
Howard has really outdone himself this time. Instead of using the same kinds
of sounds and moods featured in most films, Shore creates his own musical
universe. This is not your standard film soundtrack. It is difficult
describing this music because it incorporates so many genres, styles, moods,
and sounds. It's a wild trip to be sure and you can be certain that these
cuts are integral to the film itself. Shore has proven himself over and
over again to be one of the most important film composers of the twenty-first
century. He has, once again, hit the target dead center. Killer tracks include
"Greyhound," "Wildfire," "Brother and Sister,"
and "Blanket of Stars." If you think all film soundtracks sound
the same, think again. This one's not like the rest. Top pick.
Marbin - Third Set (CD, Moonjune,
Progressive/instrumental)
A gripping live album from the guys in Marbin. These guys apparently
love playing live. They've played over a thousand shows in the United States
over the past three and half years (yow!). As a treat for all of
their fans who have been blown away at their shows the guys in the band
have released Third Set, a live album that features songs recorded
in March and April of 2013. This album captures all the spontaneous wild
energy of the band playing live. Marbin is comprised of Danny Markovitch
on saxophones, Dani Rabin on guitar, Justyn Lawrence on drums,
and Jae Gentile on bass. If you dig solos, you'll have to hear
the sax and guitar solos provided by Markovitch and Rabin. Wow, wow, wow,
wow, wow, wowwwwww... These guys are so fast and meticulous that
you almost can't believe what you're hearing. Ten blistering tracks here...and
they're all intense and over the top. Topping off the package is an absolutely
stunning cardboard sleeve featuring a beautiful painting by Brin Levinson.
The
Maze Runner - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by John Paesano (CD, Sony
Classical, Soundtrack)
The Maze Runner is a new film based on the New York Times
best selling novel by James Dashner. The film stars Dylan O'Brien
and the story is about a man who wakes up in a huge maze with lots of other
boys, all of which have no memory of the outside world other than an underground
organization called W.C.K.D. He then tries to find clues to help him escape.
John Paesano composed the music. He studied classical music at the
Conservatoire de Paris and then later at the Berklee College of Music. Paesano
has worked with several big names like Jerry Goldsmith, John Williams,
and Hanz Zimmer's Remote Control Productions. Although Paesano is
still considered an up-and-coming talent in the world of film music composition,
you'd never know it from the compositions on this soundtrack. This twenty
one track disc features music that is slick, professional, and meticulous.
This music could just as easily appeal to classical music fans as film buffs.
The album features a multitude of orchestral players as well as a choir.
Plenty of chilling and moody cuts. Our favorites include "The Maze
Runner," "Banishment," "Trapped," and "Final
Fight." Paesano will most certainly continue to be a major player in
film music in the coming months and years.
Yael
Meyer - Warrior Heart (CD, KLI,
Pop)
Nice smooth and soft modern pop with a slightly exotic feel. Warrior
Heart is the third full-length release from Yael Meyer. Originally
from Santiago, Chile, Meyer moved to the United States to attend the Berklee
College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts. Although mostly soft and soothing
in nature, the songs on Warrior Heart actually incorporate sounds
and ideas from a variety of sources. At the heart of the music is Yael's
voice. This young lady has a velvety smooth voice that comes across sounding
very personal and genuine. The songs range from mid-tempo pop to softer
and moody stuff. Produced by Bill Lefler (who also plays on the album)
and recorded at Death Star Studios in Los Angeles, California, these tracks
have a nice slick sound without ever sounding overproduced. Ten smart memorable
cuts including "Warrior Heart," "Endless Kind Love,"
"Vessel," and "When the Road Ends."
Carmine
Miranda - Piatti: 12 Caprices For Solo Cello
(CD, Navona, Classical)
No, not Carmen Miranda...the name is Carmine Miranda.
And there's a world of difference between the two. When we first did an
internet search to find Carmine's web site the search engine corrected us
and sent us to sites related to Carmen Miranda (the well-known singer who
was fond of wearing fruit on her head). Carmine Miranda is a Venezuelan/American
cellist. This young man has done what few dare to do...record an album featuring
the cello alone in the spotlight. A difficult and challenging feat for anyone,
but even more so when you consider the fact that he chose to tackle Carlo
Alfredo Piatti's "12 Caprices" (a set of compositions that
is well known for being very difficult and challenging to play). We love
classical solos, duos, trios, quartets, and quintets because the music is
obviously much more sparse than an orchestra and tends to be less overwhelming
than symphonic music. Miranda executes the 12 Caprices with exquisite
technique and skill. His playing is precise and inspired. And our guess
is that from this point forward Carmine's talent will always be in high
demand. Beautiful from start to finish. Highly recommended. Top pick.
MKRV - W.A.Y. (Independently released CD, Pop)
We don't receive many submissions from Russia so this one immediately caught
our attention. What is surprising here...is how American this band
sounds. If we had not known in advance, we would have never guessed these
guys are from Russia. This could be due in part to the fact that two of
the band members are attending a music production school in California.
MKRV is the trio comprised of Dima Mokrov, Narek Arutyunyants,
and Bob Erin. These three guys write and record moody modern pop
that is soothing, smart, and effective. These eleven tracks feature smooth
winding melodies, breathy vocals, and arrangements that are a perfect fit
for each tune. Every song here is a keeper but our initial favorites include
"All This Time," "On The Road," "Never Look Back,"
and "You Art." We can't help but think that if countries communicated
through music (rather than through politics)...the world just might be a
much more peaceful and serene place. Totally cool stuff here, these guys
have done everything right.
Moraine - Groundswell (CD, Moonjune,
Progressive/instrumental)
The third full-length Moonjune release from Moraine. This band is
comprised of Dennis Rea (guitar), Alicia DeJoie (violin),
James DeJoie (woodwinds), Kevin Millard (bass), and Tom
Zgonc (drums). These folks play cool progressive rock/jazz instrumentals
with a difference. The playing on this album is nothing short of mesmerizing.
Each musician is extremely proficient on their instrument, making the whole
one big ball of energized power. These tracks seem to be inspired by 1970s
progressive rock bands of the past, but the overall sound is twenty-first
century all the way. Rea is one of the great modern progressive rock/jazz
guitarists, playing speedy complex math riffs that zig zag in and out of
the music. Even though this is an all-instrumental album you never even
notice because the tracks are so magnetic and gripping. Produced by Moraine
and Steve Fisk, Groundswell is one mind boggling experience
that will leave you craving for more. Our favorite cuts include "Mustardseed,"
"Skein," "Gnashville," "The Earth Is An Atom,"
and "The Okanogan Lobe." Wild and trippy stuff. Top pick.
Orgone Box - Centaur (CD-R only, Kool
Kat Musik, Pop)
A bit of background information is in order here. In 1994 a band called
Orange released a single called "Judy Over The Rainbow"
on the Chrysalis label in Great Britain. The song became popular among popaholics
around the world and as time passed by the song became more and more popular.
But the band then seemed to just disappear...until David Gray (of
the Idle Wilds) and Bill Forsyth (of the Minus Zero label)
assisted the band Orgone Box (featuring former members of Orange)
in making their first album available to the public. Now the fine folks
at Kool Kat Musik have released a reworked version of the album so that
more folks can appreciate these fine pop tunes. We never heard "Judy
Over The Rainbow" when it initially came out...so this is the first
time we have heard Orange or Orgone Box. Centaur features breezy
smart pop tunes laced with some subtle threads of psychedelia. The new version
of the album features a new track as well as some re-recordings of some
of the band's original four track recordings. Ten effervescent songs here
featuring cool guitars, flowing rhythms, and superb vocals. Our favorite
cuts include "Anaesthesia," "Mirrorball (When I Want To Feel),"
"Judy Over The Rainbow," and "Bubble."
Palm
Ghosts - Palm Ghosts (Independently
released CD, Moody progressive pop)
Palm Ghosts is the new band/project created by Philadelphia, Pennsylvania's
Joseph Lekkas who was previously in the band Grammar Debate.
After that band dissolved Lekkas took some time off from the world of music...only
to realize a few years later that creating music was "...necessary
to beat his anxieties." Thus, the band now serves two purposes.
To beat the anxieties of the musician...and to relieve anxieties in the
minds of those who hear it. Recorded in an old warehouse during an intensely
cold winter, this self-titled album presents intelligent songs that are
inspired and real. These tunes remind us somewhat of Starflyer 59
except the overall feel is somewhat more folky and reserved. Lekkas has
a great voice and a real knack for knowing how to put the pieces together.
These tracks are resilient, personal, and reflective. Our favorite cuts
include "Dr. Tiger," "Airplane Jane," "I Know You
Won't Break My Heart," and "All My Life (I've Been Waiting.)."
Scott
Pender - 88 + 12: Music for Piano and Strings
(CD, Navona, Classical)
For his debut release on the Navona label, Scott Pender "explores
the expressive natures of four instruments--piano, violin, viola, and cello."
And according to Scott (on his own web site) "The phonograph was
my first music teacher." We like where this guy is coming from
mentally and musically. Pender lives in Washington, D.C. and has received
numerous honors and awards over the years for his musical contributions.
88 + 12 is divided into four sections. The intriguingly-titled "Veil
of Ignorance" features Julia Okrusko on violin, Lilit Muradayan
on viola, and Ming-Hui Lin on cello. Close to sixteen minutes' worth
of music that is intricate, delicate, and very personal. Next is "Rhapsody,
Elegy, and Finale for Violin and Piano which features Peter Sulski
on violin and Geoffrey Burleson on piano. A particularly beautiful
sparse recording where the interplay between the two instruments is critical
to the overall vibe. Beautiful flowing melodies abound in this one. Third
is "Sonata for Viola and Piano" which again features the talents
of Sulski and Burleson. These two fellows play with magical fluidity, seemingly
feeding of each other's energy with each and every note. Wow. The
album closes with "Sonata for Cello and Piano" featuring the talents
of David Russell on cello and Burleson on piano. Wonderfully moody
music that is simultaneously classic and modern. 88 + 12 will be
welcomed by fans of traditional classical music as well as those who prefer
modern composers. On this album Pender proves himself to be one of the true
modern masters. Top pick.
Petunia - Inside Of You (Independently released CD, Rockabilly/pop)
Petunia is best known as the vocalist in the Vancouver, Canada-based
band The Vipers. But in addition to playing with his band he also
releases albums under his own name. Inside Of You features Petunia
backed by The Vipers as well as some other key players. This man has a voice
that can't be mistaken for anyone else. Although possibly too peculiar for
some listeners, Petunia's voice is instantly identifiable and unique...and
we love it. This guy has a deep warbly voice and he's so focused that you
can't help but be drawn into his music. To quote directly from the press
release that accompanied this album: "Imagine that David Lynch
and Nick Cave had a hillbilly baby, that yodeled...or Tom Waits
meets Elvis at Woody Guthrie's hobo junction." That
pretty much sums things up nicely. There's a whole lot of energy happening
during the course of these twelve intriguing tracks. Petunia has tons of
devoted fans out there in the world who will follow him anywhere. Pick up
Inside Of You and find out why. Our favorite tracks include
"Runaway Freight Train Heart," "Primitive Love," "The
One Thing," and "Tear Drops Rolling."
Everything
Don't got to
Have no
Purnt.
Can't remember
Whatever it was
That happened
Whenever that was.
Right
The Stars - The Only Thing (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Nice, slick, dreamy, well-produced modern pop. This the third full-length
release from Right The Stars. The band was formed in 2009 by Rich
Jacques who writes all the songs and plays most of the instruments.
The songs on The Only Thing are characterized by multi-layered vocals,
smart arrangements, and an overall upbeat positive vibe. Unlike many up-and-coming
artists who make music that is artsy and difficult, these songs are very
accessible and could easily be appreciated by a large segment of the listening
audience. Jacques has a great voice that provides the perfect centerpiece
for his compositions. Plenty of smart melodies and lyrics here. Our favorite
cuts include "The Only Thing," "Suburbia," "Dreamtime,"
and "Almost Too Much."
Walter Ross - Triumvirate (CD, Ravello,
Classical)
The second release on the Ravello label from composer Walter Ross.
Now retired, Walter was a tenured Professor at the University of Virginia.
His compositions have been performed in over forty countries and he has
connections all over the world. This album is divided into three sections:
"Concerto for Double Bass and Orchestra" featuring the St.
Petersburg State Symphony Orchestra, "Piano Concerto, 'Mosaics'"
featuring the Slovak Radio Symphony Orchestra, and "Clarinet
Concerto" which features the Warsaw National Philharmonic. Ross'
compositions are smooth and ultimately very melodic, having much more in
common with many of the great composers of the past than modern twenty-first
century artists. Triumvirate features over sixty-five minutes' worth
of music...and the album is chock full of sincere and real emotion. Sometimes
intricate, sometimes moody, sometimes peculiar, and sometimes quite dramatic,
the music of Walter Ross could easily appeal to just about anyone who loves
and/or appreciates classical music.
Tom
Schreck - Save Your Glory (CD, Outsider Music, Pop)
This one instantly blew us away. Nashville, Tennessee's Tom Schreck
is a pure pop artist whose music could quite possibly catapult him into
superstardom. Yup, he's that good. This is Tom's second full-length
studio release although he's been recording music for quite a few years
now. Save Your Glory is one great big megadose of pop music...seventeen
tracks that clock in at over sixty-six minutes (!). We've seen tons of folks
list the song titles on the back of their CD like a vinyl album (Sides 1
& 2)...but this is the first time we've seen songs listed like
an 8-track tape (Programs A, B, C, & D). Schreck plays several different
instruments but unlike most multi-instrumentalists he also invites other
folks to lend their talents in the recording process. The songs on this
album are smart, catchy, friendly, and arranged to perfection. Nashville
is quickly becoming known as much more than just the home of country music.
The city is bursting at the seams with talent in all genres. Artists like
Tom Schreck are helping to change the way the city's music is perceived
by the rest of the world. Every track here is a keeper but our initial favorites
include "Brazen Hearts," "Jennifer," "Magnet,"
"Crooked Mountains," and "Car Alarm." Top pick.
Slow
Leaves - Beauty Is So Common (CD, Manitoba Film & Music, Folk/pop)
Slow Leaves was created by Canada's Grant Davidson as a vehicle
to share his music with the world. Grant's music should appeal to just about
anyone who appreciates FM radio pop from the 1970s and 1980s. His songs
are melodic and lyrics are integral to the overall vibe. On this album he
is joined by producer Rusty Matyas who plays various instruments
and provides harmony vocals. The songs on Beauty Is So Common come
across sounding very genuine and personal, seeming almost as if Davidson
was writing personal messages to a friend. The arrangements are nice and
smooth...but even smoother is Grant's voice. This guy has a voice that could
melt iron. Instead of pushing himself too hard, Grant just lets the words
come out naturally. Although the songs on this album have a nice effortless
sound, we can tell that a lot of thought and hard work went into creating
them. Ten well-crafted cuts including "Everybody Wants To Be In Love,"
"Second Chances," "Institution," and "Rearview."
Stage Fright - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack)
A different sort of soundtrack album featuring music composed by Jerome
Sable (the man who produced the film) and Eli Batalion. Stage
Fright is Sable's directorial debut, a film that combines horror with
music. The story involves a hopeful young singer (Alie MacDonald)
who is terrorized by a killer at a musical theater camp. We zipped around
the internet a bit and found that, apparently, the film is receiving mixed
reviews. We haven't seen it yet so we can't comment on the film itself.
The music here is a mixed bag of songs that seem to weave together to tell
a story. Some of the tracks have an operatic kinda sound to them while others
are rockers. This may be one of those sleepers that, over time, develops
a more sizable and devoted audience. Hard to tell from these tracks exactly
what the movie will be like...? Thirty two cuts including "Kylie's
Big Finish," "Where We Belong," and "Exit Stage Fright."
Sterile
Jets - Liquor Store (Independently released
CD, Underground rock)
Is this 2014...or 1994...? Fortunately we began to wonder which decade we
were in when we slammed Liquor Store in for a spin. This Long Beach,
California-based trio plays loud, harsh, noisy underground rock music like
the world will soon be coming to an end. And man oh man is that a refreshing
change from so many up-and-coming artists who are playing it waaaaaaaaay
too safe in the twenty-first century. These guys have a noisy grunge-ish
sound that reminds us in many ways of Austin, TX legends Ed Hall
(easily one of the best live bands in the 1990s). If you want a quick
dose of what Sterile Jets are all about visit their web site and
view some of the videos. What a wild trio these guys are...rough,
unconventional, uncompromising, and intense. Liquor Store will likely
scare away most listeners and that's probably just fine with these guys.
The band is comprised of Bean, Bly, and B. Ill (no
full or real names are given). Feel like some real hard and noisy stuff
that hasn't been processed through the cheese factory? Check out hellish
rockers like "...To The Ears," "Alt Rock Is A Coma,"
"I'm Glad You're Crying, Cowboy," and "Still Cherry."
Whew...this one packs a great big punch.
Mia
Doi Todd - Floresta (CD, City Zen,
Brazilian/folk/pop)
We've been enjoying the music of Mia Doi Todd for several years now...not
only because she makes credible and resilient music...but also because she
never ever disappoints. Although not a huge commercial success at
this point in time, Todd is a favorite among critics, serious music fans,
and other musicians. On Floresta (the Portuguese word for forest)
Todd presents unique covers of Brazilian folk/pop tunes. The seeds for this
album were sown back in 2009 when Mia went to Brazil in 2009 to play a few
concerts. While there she made contacts which eventually culminated in the
recording of this album. This album was engineered by Fernando Sanches
and features Fabiano do Nascimento on guitar, Mauricio Takara
and Rogerio Martins on percussion, and Meno del Picchia on
bass. As with all of her albums, Todd creates music that is genuine and
real...a far cry from the technology-based slop that the majority of Americans
are accustomed to. If you love Brazilian music...you're almost certain
to fall in love with this one. Ten cool reflective cuts including "Misterios,"
"Luz do Sol," "Portal da Cor," and "Cais."
The
Turtles - 45 RPM Singles Collection
(Vinyl 45 Box Set, FloEdCo, Pop)
If there's one band from the 1960s we have always admired, it's The Turtles.
We loved the band's music right from the start. And over the past few decades
Mark Volman and Howard Kaylan have never let us down. They
are most certainly two gentlemen who still have the magic they had when
they began making music so many years ago. If you haven't seen the documentary
Happy Together (DVD, 2000, Rhino/WEA), we highly recommend
it. It is, in fact, our favorite band documentary of all time. If you don't
love Volman and Kaylan when you begin watching, by the end you'll be a convert.
The 45 RPM Singles Collection is a super cool box set featuring eight
vinyl singles...including the band's biggest hits as well as some lesser
known tracks. They've all been remastered and...buyers take note...according
to what we've read this is the last time that these songs will be
offered in this format (7" vinyl singles). After the original band
broke up Mark and Howard had more incredible experiences by joining The
Mothers of Invention for a while and also providing backup vocals for
many of Marc Bolan's (T. Rex) greatest recordings. But they
eventually returned to their roots and now continue touring as The Turtles
and proving that retro acts don't have to be boring and lame. We recently
picked up a live recording of one of the band's shows from a few years back
and we were stunned at how exciting and gripping they're sounding these
days. With so many bands releasing vinyl albums, Volman and Kaylan opted
to release something different...a box set containing vinyl singles. And
that is, of course, a perfect match because that is the format on which
many of these first songs were first released. This will hopefully spark
an even stronger surge of interest in The Turtles...easily one of the best
and most credible pop bands of all time. Unlike other folks who have been
in the music business for decades, Volman and Kaylan have never sold
out. Top pick.
The
Use- What's The Use? (CD, Alrealon Musique, Electronic)
The Use is the one man band band created by Michael Durek.
But on this album there are a few guest artists lending their skills to
the proceedings. Durek was once a member of the experimental group PAS
Musique which introduced him to an entirely new world of music. Now
he's out on his own. What's The Use? is Michael's debut full-length
release, and it's a keeper. This album features analog synthesizers, home-made
digital instruments and effects, theramins, field recordings, and more.
It's kinda hard describing this music because there are so many sounds and
styles floating around in the mix. And it's almost impossible to
come up with any possible comparisons or influences because of the multitude
of sounds and ideas. This is a pure dose of creativity and yet the songs
are surprisingly accessible and friendly sounding. If you think all electronic
music is cold and distant, What's The Use? may introduce you to a
new world where electronics can be your friend. Ten groovy cuts here including
"Hello Everybody," "Time Burton," "Ripe,"
and "Halo Alchemy."
Willow Willow - Listening To Music (Independently released CD, Pop)
Willow Willow is the duo of Jessica Vohs and Miranda Zeiger.
The two became friends in kindergarden and have remained friends ever since.
Vohs and Zeiger cite The Silly Sisters (Maddy Prior and June
Tabor) and The Kinks as influences...so you know they've got
great taste. The two eventually began playing together around San Francisco
and Berkeley, eventually adopting the name Willow Willow (the title of one
of their favorite songs by the band Love). It wasn't long before
the duo was signed to Mod Lang Records and released their debut self-titled
full-length album. Jessica and Miranda took their time getting around to
recording their second album but it was well worth the wait...because their
fans are going to love this one. Listening To Music is chock
full of positive uplifting melodic pop. What struck us most about this music
is how remarkably human the vocals sound. Instead of layering harmonies
to the point of sounding like computerized cheese food, these two ladies
show proper restraint. And, by doing so, these songs come across sounding
very much like what we'd guess they sound like playing live. This is a short
album that clocks in at just over thirty-three minutes. But in that amount
of time these enchanting ladies will certainly win you over with their talent
and genuine spirit. Every song here is a keeper but our initial favorites
include "Sweetest Boy, Loneliest Girl," "Listening To Music,"
"Crash," "Hummingbird," and "I Will Never Tire
Of You." Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
There is no value for
Maintaining of connection
With those who is
Forgot.
A
A Conversation - The last taxi
Activator - Activator
Seth Adam - Steel tempered pride
Juan Alamo - Marimjazzia
Amen Ittys - Pliers
Alana Amram & The Rogh Gems - Spring river
Amigo - Might coulc
Amusium - French fries and caviar
Annette - Dream with me
Apollo Chamber Players - European folkscapes
Jon Armstrong Jazz Orchestra - Farewell
Arrested Development - At long last...music ans songs from Arrested Development
Asteroid No. 4 - Asteroid No. 4
August: Osage Countyk - Original motion picture soundtrack
Auris + Gino - Rub
B
Baby Baby - Big boy baller club
Sherman Baker - Sherman Baker
Cheryl Barnes - Listen to this
Carol Barnett - Treasures from the archives
Brian Baugus - Actor songster sage
Beat Funktion - Mandy's secret
Bee Bee Bee Bee - Eee Eee Eee Eee
Behind Enemy Lines: Seal Team 8 - Original motion picture soundtrack
Bend The Riever - So long Joan Fontaine
Laura Benitez and the Heartache - Heartless woman
Marie Nelson Bennett - Orpheus lex
Bernie - Original motion picture soundtrack
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
Boswell - Beryllium
Roger Bourland - Four quartets of songs and arias
Bowed Piano Ensemble - Ice and fire
Michael Bradford - The long night
Phillip Brandon - Phillip Brandon
BRB - Razorback - first bite
Brushfire Stankgrass - Micro climntes
Buenos Diaz - The love balloon
Buffalo Clover - Live at the Five
Buffalo Clover - Test your love
Bullets Over Broadway: The Musical - Original broadway cast recording
Burgeoning - Love alchemy, life algorithm EP
Hardin Burns - Down the deep well
Ellen Burr / Michael Unruh - Where am i from, where am i going
Rosemary Butler - You just watch me
Jon Byrd - Route 41
C
Curt Cacioppo - Ritornello
Calvary - Original motion picture soundtrack
Eileen Careyk - Let it go
Azure Carter & Alan Sondheim - Avator woman
Steven Casper & Cowboy Angst - Endless sky
Sergio Cervetti - Unbridled chamber works
Che Prasad - Christmastime in the apocalypse
Che Prasad - Shiva me timbers
Cinderella - Rodgers and Christopher's Cinderella: A new musical
Clementi Grand - His works, h is fortepiano
Conrad Clifton - Picture in picture
Susan Clynes - Life is...
Jose Contreras - Jose Contreras
Copernicus - Immediate eternity II
David G. Cortes - Time away but home again
Cosmic Punlch - FM stereo
Crap Detectors - On the psycho path of life
Reginald Cyntze - Elements of life
D
Keith Davis Trio - Still
Spencer Day - Daybreak
Dear Darwin - An abecedarium for soprano and piano
Matija Dedic, Antonio Sanchez, Scott Colley - Sentiana
Frank Dibussolo Group - Songs to write home about
Gareth Dickson - Invisible string
Dive Index - Lost in the pressure
Eddie Dixson - Bump key
Sarah Donner - That is a pegasus
Doors - A psyche tribute to The Doors
Bob Dorough - Bob Dorough
Doug Richards Trio - Jazz in the living room
Down Home Band - Monrovia
Rob Drabkin - Little steps
Drockulette - Smock
Duo526 - Ballade
E
8-Bit Operators - Enjoy the science
EDM - I need you
D. Edward - Love is
Dave Ellis - Everything in between
Jeff Ellis - Learning how to live
Jace Everett - Terra rosa
Jace Everett Bad things
The Everydays - The Everydays
Ezzeethere - Not so...
F
Fair Ophelia - 2
Falling Birds - Native America EP
Fankhauser Cassidy Band - On the blue road
Far West - Any day now
Derek Fawcett - Feel better
Fearing & White - Tea and confidences
Feel No Other - Feel No Other
Bonne Finken - Fairytales/love affairs
Julian Fleisher - Finally
Flow Tribe - Alligator white
Footnotes - Comin' home
Jamila Ford - The deep end
Foundations - Modern works in the clasical tradition
Jeremy Fox - With love
Carl Franklin - Been a while
Morgan Frazier - Morgan Frazier
Danny Freyer - Must be love
Frozen - Original soundtrack
Amos Funk - Black rose
G
Nick Gallant - Wanderlust
Matt Garrison - Patchwork
G.B.F. - Original motion picture soundtrack
Robin George - History
Ferrill Gibbs - Significant trees
Giver - Original motion picture soundtrack
Glade - What turns on the lights
Glass House - Long way down
Global Unified - Global Unified
Goddesses - 3
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
Chris Greco - Standards, vol. 1
H
Matt Hannah - Let the lonely fade
Hard Soul - Seize the year
Harrington/Lowewen Duo - Metropolis
Dave & Emma Hart - Hold on
Cyndi Harvell - Heartache & revolution
Hearts of Oak - New England
Heavy Glow - Pearls & swine and everything fine
John Michael Hersey - Adirondack
Sydney Hodkinson - A keyboard odyssey
C. Holmes - Peace love & C. Holmes
Amanda Homi - Till I reach Bombay
Kandia Crazy Horse - Stampede
House of Cards - Season 2, music by Jeff Beal
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! - The musical
I
If/Then - Original Broadway cast recording
I Love Rich - Respect the rich
Il Rumore Bianco - Mediocrazia
Il Sogno del Marinaio - Canto secondo
Indies Scope - 2013
Insect Surfers - Infra green
Intimate Dream - Wonderful thing
In Your Eyes - Original motion picture score: Music by Tony Morales
J
The JAC - Love dumb
Chris Jasper - The one
Daena Jay - Subdivision
Jersey Boys - Music from the motion picture and Broadway musical
Noel Johnston - Salted coffee
Jokeless - Smoke free
Carolyn Lee Jones - The performer
Laney Jones - Golden road
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
Dave Kain, Thomson Kneeland, Joe Abba - Raising Kain
Eric Kamen - Serenades
Ricky Kej / Wouter Kellerman - Winds of Samsara
Kelly's Lot - Live in Brussels
Madison King - Onward and upward
Elly Kouri - I love you too much
Adrian Krygowski - Roam
Daniela Kuri - Sway
Bae Kuang - These darling wings
L
Joe LaCascio and Woody Witt - Absinthe: The music of Billy Strayhorn
Michael Lake / Gerry Pagano - Roads less traveled
Lalama Brothers - Erie Ave.
Brett Larson - One of these roads
Lily Lambert - So far
Ronnie Lane - Memorial concert: One for the road - Royal Albert Hall, London
Jacob Latham - Midnight train
John A. Lewis Trio - One trip out
Lilla - The awakening
Jackie Lomax - Against all odds
Michelle Langara - Songs of blue
Lovers Key - Here today gone tomorrow
Lowman - Garden of rainbows
Lucky Bone - Borderline
Carmen Lundy - Soul to soul
Vincente Lyn - Live in New York City
M
Machine Don't Lie - Nobody panic
Magnolia - Magnolia
Ray Majors - The 7% solution
Matthew Malsky - Geographies & geometries
Terry Marshall - Arrival
Dan Masterson - Learn to live
Josh Matthews - A sides
Josh Matthews - Co-patriot
McCormick Percussion Group - Soli for soprano with percussion orchestra
Mark Meadows - Somethin' good
Todd Meadows - Brothers keeper
Meanies - Cover their tracks
Adam Meckler Orchestra - When the clouds look like this
Michael-Ann - Heavy load
Tim Levan Miller - Boredom longs for fear
Andy Milne & Dapp Theory - Forward in all directions
Miss Massive Snowflake - So sweet
Jim Mize - Jim Mize
Moistboyz - 5
Mike Montrey Band - Song by song by song
Monuments Men - Original motion picture soundtrack
Patricia Morehead - Brass rail blues
Morning Birds - Bloom
Dan Moretti & The Hammond Boys - Live at Chan's
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
Kris N. - The thankful parade
Namb - Namb
Nekozurashi - Ahostractions
New American Farmers - The farmacology sessions
Graham Nicholas - Sometimes chicken, sometimes feathers
Nine Times Blue - Matter of time
Nishe - This is Nishe
Nissy - Program the hissing thing
Non-Stop - Original motion picture soundtrack
Noisy Noses - Noisy Noses
Northwest +1 - Minor suggestions
November Man - Original motion picture soundtrack
Novox - Over the honeymoon
Brian Noyes - Journeys after...
Nylon Jail - My heart soars like a hawk
O
Oak Street Blues - Calico
Elijah Ocean - Bring it all in
Old Cabin - Old Cabin
Alejandra O'Leary and the Champions of hte West - Heartspace timepiece
One Chance - Original motion picture soundtrack
Oooooo - Noooooo
Orchestra of Spheres - Vibration animal sex brain music
Rich O'Toole - Jaded
Alexandra Ottaway - Tetrahedron dreams
P
Jenna Paone - Hammers and strings
Charlie Parr - Hollandale
Daniel Jay Paul - The path less traveled
Pawns or Kings - Pomme de terre
Period 2 - Period 2
Perry Project - Can't steal soul
Troy Petty - Fairy tale pen
Simon Phillips, John Lawton, Joseph Williams - My kind o' lovin': Intelligent
music project II
Steve Picataggio - Two feet on the ground
Aaron Poehler & Ryan Tullyt-Doyle - Dietrich
Q
Bobby Quick and the Speeds of Sound - Bobby Quick and the Speeds of Sound
R
Ben Rabb - Until it's gone
Yves Ramette - The golden galaxy
Random Order - Black lipstick kiss
Rapoon - Cultural forgeries
Reacta - Refraction
Reanimation - Under the last tree on earth
James Tristan Redding - Walking into Brooklyn
Marty Regan - Scattering light, scattering flowers
Dina Regine - Rigiht on, alright
Charlee Remitz - These veins
Rococo - Losing ground
Edward Rogers - Kaye
Anna Maria Rosales - Wahsed up on your shore
Arrica Rose & The ...'s - Wavefunction
Jefferson Rose Band - Feel like dancing
Roxanna - Exotica
Royal Oui - Royal Oui
S
69 Cats - Transylvanian tapes
Chris Sanchez - Guilty
Sarah - Featuring Bruce Barth
Save The Radio - Calculating the sum of your life
Scan Hopper - Mariana bridges
Scarred But Smarter - Life N times of Drivin N Cryin
Scattered Bodies - Talking songs
Scenic Route to Alaska - Warrington
Scientist - World EP
Erik Scott - And the earth bleeds
Hilary Scott - Freight train love
Secret Agent 23 Skidoo - The perfect quirk
David Serby and the Latest Scam - David Serby and the Latest Scam
Serious Fun - Serious Fun
Shameless - Music from the television series
Sherlock - Original television soundtrack
Ships Have Sailed - Someday
Signal - Original motion picture soundtrack
Herb Silverstein - Monday morning: 10 original tunes
The Silvertones - Silvertone avenue
Sine Qua Non - Simple pleasures
Donna Singer - Destiny: Moment of jazz
Devin Sinha - The seventh season
Smoke Season - H0ot coals cold souls
Snowpiercer - Original motion picture soundtrack
Soatoa - Latent
Society of Composers, Inc. - Pendulum
Sours - Sours
Spectra - A concert of music by members of Connecticut Composers, Inc.
Spell Kasters - Kastin' the spell
Spiritlines - Pale hands
Spycker - Voted away
Andrew St. James - The shakes
Neville Staple - Ska crazy!
Ann ie Stela - Whiplash blues
Richard Stoltzman - Resolve
Ed Stone - King of hearts
Isobel Stover - Her own sweet world
Stray - Life in Japan 2013
Stray Birds - Best medicine
Joe Sullivan - Whiskey jack waltz
Mason Summit - Absentee
Sunshine Riot - A fresh bottle and a brand new day
Sweet - Sweetlife
T
Tal Gur - Under contractions
Julian Temple Band - Upsidedownbackwards
That Awkward Moment - Original motion picture soundtrack
Third World - Under the magic sun
Derek Thomas & Skylnie Drive - Beyond the trestles
Beth Thornley - Septagon
Dinah Thorpe - Lullabies & walke up calls
Tippy - Getting Tippy
Alex Tjoland Band - Silent revelry
Darryl Tookes and Joe Beck - Precious child: Love songs & lullabies
Toothe - Talons EP
Tower of Song - In cityi and in forest
Billy Tsounis - Nefelibata
Matt Turk - Cold revival
U
Ugly Kids Club - Head games
Ugly Quartet - Mars needs Maurice
Uncommon Evolution - Uncommon Evolution
Unrepeatable Quartet - Edmonton 2012
Midge Ure - Fragile
The Use - What's the use?
V
Van Burens - Van Burens
Vanilla Beans - FFFF
Various artists - Made in Iceland VII
Various Artists - A blues tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival
Various Artists - Sweet relief: Love is everywhere
Vaudeville - Vendetta
Ana Velinova - The thief
Vices - Vices
Videoing - Treasure house EP
Villians - A little something for the pain
Vinny Vegas - The big white whale
Vlatko - Subjective experience in a commerical free zone
Vosque Dots - Toska
W
Sean Wagner - Word came with the evening
Tommy Wallach - I meant it to be sweet
Week of Wonders - Piggybacks b/w The end of the day
Windows - Sunrise highway
Danielle Woodrow - Turning
Stan Wells - High tide
Western Education - Let your secrets out
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
Ricardo Zohn/Muldoon / David Liptak - Stars stories song
