November 2017 Comics and Reviews by
Ebrie daze tase jass lakkah rodduh sammish.
Acting
Natural - Acting Natural (Independently
released CD EP, Pop)
Refreshingly upbeat and melodic pop music. These guys have a cool sound
and neat image and if all the variables fall into place...they could be
huge. The band is comprised of Eric Carnevale (lead vocals,
guitar), James David Maney (bass, vocals), and Jesse Leonard
(drums, vocals). This disc would already be impressive, but even more
so considering it is the debut from these charming young gentlemen.
Great melodies, infectious rhythms, fine-tuned arrangements...plus vocals
to die for (particularly the harmonies). The guys in Acting Natural
play classic pop in the truest sense of the word. Six standout cuts here...and
they all sound like hits. Our favorites include "The One,"
"Bloom," and "Missed the Train." Most of these tracks
bear similarities to British invasion pop from the 1960s. Totally fun stuff.
Dave
Ballou - Quadrants For Solo Trumpet
(CD, pfMENTUM, Improvisational)
It's not often you come across an album featuring the trumpet used as a
solo instrument. Just the idea of it would probably frighten most listeners
away. As such, it seems particularly intriguing that improvisational artist
Dave Ballou would start out this album with sounds that seem
very much like someone who doesn't even know how to play (!). The first
few notes of "North" will almost certainly alienate most people.
Ballou is one brave guy though. He can really play. But in many cases
he chooses to use the instrument as more of a noise maker than a musical
instrument. The world of improvisation is an odd one. Although many may
not realize it, creating spontaneous sound actually is a true art
form. If you don't believe it, compare music made by a competent instrumentalist
with someone who cannot actually play. You'll hear a big difference.
Even more impressive here is the fact that each of these four pieces lasts
just over fifteen minutes. Try creating credible spontaneous sound for fifteen
minutes, and you'll see how difficult it is. Quadrants For Solo Trumpet
is a truly peculiar spin. We've never heard anything quite like it. Startlingly
different and unusual.
Chris
Barron - Angels and One-Armed Jugglers
(CD, Chrysanthemum, Pop)
This talented fellow could rest on his laurels for the rest of his life
and his music would still be appreciated. But rather than retread past glories,
former Spin Doctors front man Chris Barron forges into the
future with songs that will ultimately please his fans and attract legions
more. This album is, in a word...brilliant. The songs don't fit into
any particular genre, and yet the album merges together comfortably as a
whole. Angels and One-Armed Jugglers is a very personal collection
of tracks. Some seem very serious in tone while others are infused with
a keen sense of humor. These tunes were composed with the idea that they
could be presented simply with only a guitar and voice. But the additional
players and precise arrangements certainly push the music to another level.
What will impress most folks here are the vocals. Barron's voice has never
sounded better. This is an album that's sure to strike a chord with listeners
and it will stand the test of time. Eleven captivating cuts. Our favorites
are the title track, "April and May," "In a Cold Kind of
Way," "Still a Beautiful World," and "Too Young To Fade."
Angels is most certainly a peak in this talented man's career. Recommended.
Top pick.
Tyler
Bates & Joel J. Richard - John Wick 2:
Original Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Varese
Sarabande, Soundtrack)
The second installment in the John Wick series. This motion picture
also marks the first time that Keanu Reeves and Laurence Fishburne
have appeared together in the same film since The Matrix. We haven't
seen it yet so this review only deals with the music created by Tyler
Bates and Joel J. Richard. This music would fit into the modern
soundtrack category, as the ideas and sounds are decidedly twenty-first
century in sound and scope. These tracks encompass ideas from a variety
of genres including techno, experimental, classical, and world music. A
few cuts feature other artists (Ciscandra Nostalghia, Le Castle Vania,
and Jerry Cantrell) but this is, for the most part, a venture created
by Bates and Richard. There's a lot to sink your teeth into here...over
seventy minutes of music. These tracks have a nice thick slick sound that
should certainly add that perfect zing necessary for motion picture
viewers. Some of the moodier tracks really make their mark..."Walk
To Museum" has a really strange uncomfortable feel, as does the slinky
sounding "Guns & Turtlenecks." "Mirror Mayhem" is
perhaps our favorite cut, and may remind listeners of music from the television
series Alias. Bates and Richard have created a true roller coaster
ride...a soundtrack album chock full of strange sounds and unexpected turns.
For a pure jolt of energized excitement, you won't do better than this.
Battle of the Sexes - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Nicholas Britell (CD, Sony Classical, Soundtrack)
This ought to be an interesting movie experience. Battle of the Sexes
tells the story of the rivalry between tennis celebrities Billie Jean
King and Bobby Riggs as the two were set to tie off in a major
tennis match in 1973. Emma Stone plays King and Steve Carell
plays Riggs, so that alone ought to be reason enough to catch this motion
picture. This is not just a story of tennis players competing...it also
involves other personal situations that both were dealing with at the time.
The soundtrack is...superb. Created by Nicholas Britell, the
music for this motion picture may occasionally remind many viewers/listeners
of Woody Allen as it recreates the mood of a different time and place.
Compared to many other well-known names in the world of music for film and
television, Britell is a newcomer. But in the few years he's been active
this talented composer, pianist, and producer has already been nominated
for an Academy Award. And if the soundtrack for Battle of the Sexes
is any indication of what he's capable of well then...the sky's the limit.
In addition to Britell's pensive cool compositions, the soundtrack also
features the original song "If I Dare" by Sara Bareilles.
This is a cool reflective soundtrack that no doubt adds the exact mood necessary
to drive the storyline.
The
Brocks - The Brocks (CD, Arkade,
Pop)
This unassuming album arrived in a plain brown envelope with no accompanying
information. No sales pitch, no photos of the band, nothing. When we popped
the disc into our player, we realized why. This is an album that
will sell itself. Rarely do we hear bands from Provo, Utah. But after
hearing this album we're sure ready to hear more. But apparently this band
is very different from what the city normally produces. Made up of a group
of students from Brigham Young University, The Brocks is comprised
of Dane Brock, Christian Darais, Morgan Ence, and Ryan King.
This, the band's debut album, has already created quite a buzz in Provo
and beyond. Two tracks have been used in commercials by Kenneth Cole and
and Mountain Dew. Not bad for a new band (!). Musically, these folks are
treading in territory that sounds something like a cross between New
Order and Joy Electric...with one major difference. The vocals
are pure pop all the way. The tracks on this album combine hypnotic
dance beats with heavenly keyboards. The vocal harmonies are pitch point
perfect. This is a pure feelgood experience, so be forewarned. If you want
dark and bleak, you won't find it here. These folks are providing a wonderfully
inviting upbeat experience that allows the listener to take a break from
reality. Killer tracks include "What I Want to Hear," "Going
Nowhere," "Circles," "HLYWD," and "Won't Stop
Here." Infectious and groovy stuff. Top pick.
Carter
Burwell - The Founder: Original
Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Varese
Sarabande, Soundtrack)
The subject matter of this motion picture may, unfortunately, scare some
folks away. There's so much anti-McDonald's sentiment in the world in the
twenty-first century. But, like it or not, the company has made a permanent
impression on our combined consciousness as there is no way of escaping
the commercials and buildings that always seem to be everywhere simultaneously.
The Founder is a film that tells the story of how the Big M got started,
with Michael Keaton playing the lead role. Regardless of how we feel
about the company, we're going to watch this one just out of curiosity.
The score for the movie was created by Carter Burwell, who always
seems to pick interesting projects to work on. There are a few pop tracks
by other artists included here, but Burwell is responsible for the bulk
of the music. This album is very different from your average twenty-first
century orchestral soundtrack. The tracks are, for the most part, rather
sparse and thoughtful...with less of an emphasis on big orchestras in favor
of a smaller, more organic overall sound. Burwell is a man who seems to
be able to transmit feelings and emotions through music. And on this album
he has once again succeeded admirably. Wonderfully executed tracks include
"Multimixer Man," "The Arches," "Minneapolis,"
and "Secret to Success." Intriguing, thoughtful, and intelligent.
Cathedrale - J2-B2 (CD, Angel
Air, Pop)
Yet another obscure album retrieved from the vaults from the folks
at Great Britain's Angel Air label. And this time it's from a band that
we never even knew existed. Cathedrale was formed in the late 1980s
by Jon Camp after he decided to part ways with the band Renaissance.
Also in the band were John Young (who had previously played in Asia,
Greenslade, and Scorpions), Brett Wilde, and Tony
Bodene. In the beginning the band came very close to being signed by
Atlantic Records in the United States, but things didn't work out. They
recorded their debut album in the United Kingdom, but it was never released...until
now. If you like the sound of 1980s progressive techno pop, you will find
a lot to appreciate here. This is yet another example of bands who should've
been successful but--for various reasons--they were not. Twelve carefully
constructed tracks including "One By One," "Paris Is Calling,"
"It's Really Up To You," and "Crying."
Alex Chilton - A Man Called Destruction (CD, Omnivore
Recordings, Pop)
Back when he originally started releasing solo albums, we had a hard time
adjusting to Alex Chilton's sound. Possibly like so many music fans,
we really just wanted to hear more music in the vein of Big Star.
The first time we got our greedy little paws on Like Flies on Sherbert
we had a feeling things had taken a permanently different direction. We
were wanting an extension of Third...but Sherbert had little
if any similarities. Looking back now, we sure can appreciate and understand
the transition. Chilton was probably smart enough and adventurous enough
to know when one phase of life ended and another began. After all, as a
young man he had already lived through life as a celebrity in The Box
Tops. So when he decided to close the door on Big Star, he probably
just decided he wanted to make the kind of music that suited him. So Big
Star fans were then faced with hearing their pure pop God making groove-oriented
soul pop. Originally released in 1995, A Man Called Destruction is
probably/possibly one of the most accessible solo albums Alex released.
Now, thanks to the folks at Omnivore Recordings, the album is once again
available for all to hear. This deluxe reissue includes all the tracks from
the original album plus seven bonus tracks. Also included is a cool booklet
featuring notes/info from Bob Mehr. Quite an impressive package,
and a must for Alex Chilton fans. We liked this album when it was released.
But now, in retrospect, we have a much greater and deeper admiration for
these cool tracks.
Cyborg
Asylum - Never Finished, Only Abandoned
(Independently released CD, Industrial pop)
Interesting timing. Just last month we were musing about industrial music,
thinking that the genre is about due to experience a resurgence. Then the
new album from New York's Cyborg Asylum appeared in our mailbox...featuring
heavy and cool industrial pop that's been updated to suit a twenty-first
century audience. The band is the duo of David Varga and John
Tumminia. The tracks on Never Finished, Only Abandoned remind
us of a whole host of underground industrial rock and pop bands and artists
from the 1990s (one of the most creative periods in the history of
music). But this is not a retread of previous ideas and sounds, these tracks
offer new interpretations and variations of this style of music. Varga originally
started the project to create instrumentals but then invited Tumminia to
join in and add vocals. So with this album, the listener is treated to the
best of both worlds: totally trippy instrumental segments as well as way
cool vocal melodies. Twelve groovy cuts here including "Blitz,"
"Synergy," "Asymmetry," and "Paradigm Shift."
DieAlps! - Our City (CD, New
Granada, Pop)
The debut full-length release from Florida's DieAlps! Fans had to
wait a while for this one, but they won't be disappointed. Our
City is a superb spin, chock full of intelligent songs presented with
precision and true style. In many ways, the overall sound and vibe here
reminds us of some of our favorite bands/artist from the 1990s. The creative
spark runs high through all twelve tracks, making City easily one
of the very best albums released this year. The band is comprised
of Sarah Modene, Jonathan Robbins, Frank Calcaterra, and Connie
Calcaterra. Frank recorded, engineered, and produced the album at Atomic
Audio in Tampa, Florida. The songs are out-of-this-world great. And
they're made even more impressive by the superbly effective arrangements.
These songs have a nice full sound but they never suffer from that horribly
common and cluttered twenty-first century approach. The vocals are always
right on target. This is one of those albums that you can spin over and
over and over again for years and never tire of the music. We might describe
this as escapist progressive pop...because the wonderfully inventive nature
of the music just makes us feel great. And it makes us forget about things
happening around us that really don't matter at all. Killer tracks include
"Running Into Walls," "Trust Me" (chillingly beautiful),
"Get Yours," and "We Fought the Sea." Highly recommended.
TOP PICK.
Wyatt
Easterling - Divining Rod (CD, Phoenix
Rising, Pop/folk)
Chapel Hill, North Carolina-based singer/songwriter Wyatt Easterling
has come up with a real winner. This independently released album easily
stands up to just about anyone's professional standards. Produced by Chris
Rosser, Divining Rod has a superb organic overall sound that
should appeal to everyone. Songs are the main ingredient here, with a heavy
emphasis on lyrics. Listening to this fellow sing, you almost get the impression
you're having a conversation with an old friend. Although recording these
tracks obviously took a great deal of time and energy, the songs end up
sounding like a group of musicians playing live right in front of you. Wyatt's
vocals are particularly warm and appealing. We can't help but think that
over time other musicians will discover this album and choose to cover this
man's songs. His compositions have integrity and substance, so our guess
is that he will likely be a musicians' musician...appreciated most by those
who share his love of creating music. Combining elements of folk, country,
pop, and Americana, this fellow has crafted an album with true staying power.
Genuinely heartfelt cuts include "Stumbling Towards the Light,"
"Pacing the Cage," "Some Days," and "Somewhere
Down the Road."
Tyler
Edwards - A Few Good Hearts (Independently
released CD, Pop/folk/Americana)
Smooth and friendly music that incorporates elements from pop, folk, rock,
and Americana. Prior to going solo, Tyler Edwards was in the band
I Anthem that achieved a good bit of success a few years ago. Originally
from Florence, South Carolina, Edwards now lives in Seattle, Washington.
Produced and engineered by Jesse Proctor, A Few Good Hearts
presents songs that delve into all sorts of musical terrain. Tyler is one
of those guys whose music seems to flow naturally from his heart and soul.
Rather than trying to be artsy and unusual, he just seems to be intent on
providing music that is real and has substance. If that is the goal, then
he has succeeded admirably with Hearts. After spinning this album
a few times, you may very well feel like you know Edwards. His music is
warm, inviting, and personal. And he's got a voice that really transcends.
Eleven impeccable tracks including "Before the Question," "Don't
Rush Me," and "As You Need."
Flamin' Groovies - Fantastic Plastic (CD, Sonic Kicks / Burger
/ Severn, Pop/rock)
The reformed Flamin' Groovies is something that most people didn't
see coming. Our first reaction is...that these guys have still got it
goin' on. Yup, after all these years the Groovies still seem to have
the magic that drew so many to their music in the first place. Most importantly,
this is not a retread. Fantastic Planet is a new album featuring
new songs. And the real zinger is...the band once again features original
members Cyril Jordan and Chris Wilson who--prior to the recording
of this album--had not played together in thirty-eight years (!). The two
got together in 2013 in London and buried the hatchet(s). Possibly the coolest
thing about this album is that the songs have not been tweaked and
manipulated to sound like twenty-first century slop/pop. Listening to this,
it almost sounds like these are recordings from decades ago...the only thing
that seems to have been updated is the sound quality. But the most important
variable here are the songs themselves. Ten of the twelve are new
originals by Jordan and Wilson...and they sound just as inspired and groovy
as stuff the band recorded way back when. Killer cuts include "What
the Hell's Goin' On," "Crazy Macy," "Lonely Hearts,"
and "Cryin' Shame." Sure hope this reunion results in more albums,
'cause this one hits the spot. Recommended. Top pick.
Historian - Expanse (Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
We always admire and appreciate bands and artists who aren't jumping on
bandwagons and playing whatever sound and style are currently hip, cool,
and popular. Historian is the Los Angeles, California-based project
created by Chris Karman. While this album serves as an introduction
for us, the band began releasing music in 2013. Hard to contrast and compare
these songs with other artists because there aren't any obvious ones that
come to mind. Some of the melodies occasionally remind us of Television
Personalities...and some have compared Karman's voice to an early Leonard
Cohen. But neither is an accurate indicator of the overall sound here.
Interestingly, the folks in this band tend to fill their songs with tons
of ideas "...and then meticulously pull back the layers, pouring
over every detail." An interesting way of approaching the recording
process, and this may account for the slightly perplexing mixes. One thing's
certain...these songs are ultimately intelligent and thought provoking.
Ten classy songs here including "Small Compromise," "Here
and Then," and "Thrown On the Road."
Machine
Mass - Plays Hendrix (CD, Moonjune, Progressive/rock)
This is an album with true crossover appeal. Plays Hendrix will appeal
those who appreciate progressive, rock, and jazz...as well as fans of Jimi
Hendrix. Machine Mass is the trio comprised of Michel Delville,
Tony Bianco, and Antoine Guenet. Together the three have tackled
what many would consider a holy grail...covering the debut album (Are
You Experienced) from sixties phenomenon Jimi Hendrix in its entirety.
This is a far cry from a mere rehashing of the material. Recorded live in
the studio these tracks offer entirely new interpretations of these classic
tracks from the past. What will perhaps puzzle and delight listeners here
are the keyboards and piano...instruments not normally associated with Hendrix.
Some of the music will ring bells in the minds of listeners...while others
seem to go off into their own unique territories, bearing only slight similarities
to the originals. The nine tracks that appeared on Experienced are
presented in the exact sequence as the original. Unusual variations on familiar
tracks include "Third Stone From the Sun," "Purple Haze,"
"Fire," and "The Wind Cries Mary."
Adam
Marsland - Bule (CD-R, Karma
Frog, Pop)
The twelfth full-length release from Adam Marsland. Adam is one of
those driven guys out there who always seems to have his fingers in several
different projects at once. He's a musician, songwriter, performer, producer,
and more. He's worked with underground artists as well as well known celebrities.
And it seems like whatever project(s) he's involved in at the moment end
up turning out...great. This album features twelve songs that wind
and weave their way into multiple genres...all the while retaining elements
of pure pop. Interestingly, these tracks were recorded mainly in Bali, Indonesia,
and Los Angeles (!). There's a reason why Marsland's talents are in such
high demand. Give Bule a spin to find out why. The album showcases
Adams' diversity in terms of songs and arrangements. It all sounds so effortless...but
we know that is not the case. A great deal of thought, time, and
energy was obviously involved in creating these tracks. Instantly effective
cuts include "Peace," "This Is Madness," and "More."
Rob Martinez - Today My Mind...Tomorrow The World (CD-R, Karma Frog, Pop)
The second full-length release from Rob Martinez. This is one of
those albums that will be immediately embraced by fans of classic pop. Martinez
seems to draw inspiration from hit songs from the 1970s and 1980s. His songs
have a soothing familiar sound which may give you the strange feeling you've
heard them before. Creating an album of new songs that sound like instant
hits is no small feat. These guitar driven compositions are presented simply,
using only the basics to create the overall sound. Rob's got a great voice...and
the harmonies are absolutely killer. Adam Marsland (see review
above) played almost all of the instruments (!) on Today My Mind...Tomorrow
The World and also contributed background vocals. This album is a pure
upbeat experience that's guaranteed to put you in a cool frame of
mind. Ultra-hummable cuts include "Let Me Tell You Why," "Sooner
or Later," "Rain Falls," and "Please Don't Talk."
Bear
McCreary - Unrest: Original
Motion Picture Soundtrack (CD, Sparks
and Shadows, Soundtrack)
Bear McCreary is a superstar in the world of film music. And his
is most definitely a case where an ultra-talented man is worthy of all the
attention and acclaim that he receives. The motion picture Unrest
delves into a topic that isn't normally covered in the entertainment industry...Chronic
Fatique Syndrome. The movie is a documentary about the life of Harvard Ph.D.
student Jennifer Brea and it chronicles her being diagnosed with
the syndrome and how she coped with it. This one must be a great view, as
most critics seem to be giving it a universal thumbs up. McCreary's soundtrack
is pensive with an overall somber and serious tone. This music is a bit
more stripped down and basic than we're accustomed to hearing from Bear,
and that's probably because that's what the story commanded. It was the
right approach to be certain, as these compositions seem like the perfect
companion for day-to-day life. Impeccable melodies and acute arrangements
abound. Our favorite tracks include "Jennifer and Omar," "Magnetic
Resonance Imaging," "So Many Lost," and "Whitney."
Jaco
Pastorius - Truth, Liberty & Soul
(Double CD, Resonance,
Jazz)
In the world of physical releases in 2017, music matters of course...but
just as important in many cases is the packaging. And that's mainly because
streaming and downloads have so often become the norm. With this release,
you get the best of both worlds: a wealth of great music housed in a slick
and tastefully designed triple fold digipak sleeve complete with a totally
cool thick 96 page (!) miniature color book. While this may be troublesome
for those who no longer feel that music deserves physical space in their
homes, folks who still like collecting physical objects with impeccable
packaging will love this. This is the kind of release that will particularly
appeal to diehard Jaco Pastorius fans around the world, as these
two discs contain live recordings from 1982 of Jaco and the Word of Mouth
Big Band playing at the Avery Fisher Hall in New York City (George
Wein's Kool Jazz Festival). The first release officially authorized
by the Jaco Pastorius Estate, Truth, Liberty & Soul is a pure
delight. This concert originally aired on the National Public Radio Jazz
Alive! broadcast, but this album includes an additional 40 minutes of music.
These two discs feature over two hours of quality stuff. And, as you might
guess, the playing and recording quality are both superb. These tasty tracks
will appeal to fans of classic as well as modern jazz. Pastorius was a very
early innovator, playing fretless electric bass way before it was cool.
These live recordings will remind listeners of this man's influence and
lasting legacy in the world of music.
Pep! - ...Presenting Pep! (Independently released CD,
Pop)
Pep! is a groovy new pure pop group obviously influenced by girl
groups from the 1950s and 1960s. The band name is a perfect fit for these
folks' image and overall vibe, as the word instantly recalls a simpler place
and time. From the sound of these songs, our guess is that these talented
ladies have a helluva time making music together. Spinning this album,
you can just feel the cool vibes. Super friendly tracks that feature
tons of backing vocals...and toe tapping rhythms that will take listeners
back in time. With the recent success of artists like Charlie Faye and
the Fayettes, we can't help but think that the time is right for the
world to embrace Pep! These wonderfully catchy upbeat cuts will immediately
make you forget about everything that you'd really rather not be thinking
about anyway. This band records instantly infectious escapist pop
that sticks in your head like glue. The performers on this album are Karys
Rhea, Ilana Webber, Morgan Lynch, David Origlieri, Teddy Williams, Jordan
Ross, Michael Rosen, and Christina Bernard. Cool tracks include
"Pep In My Step," "Be That Girl," "Baby Go On,"
and "One of These Days (I'm Gonna Be Your Girlfriend)." This one's
a great big ball of F-U-N.
Thor
Platter - Take Time (CD, Sunshine Music, Country/pop/bluegrass)
We couldn't quite figure out what category best suited this release. Country?
Not quite. Pop? Sorta. Bluegrass? Definitely some threads in the mix. Combining
elements from all three, Cleveland, Ohio-based singer/songwriter Thor
Platter makes music that should appeal to a wide cross section of listeners.
His influences include Woodie Guthrie, Bob Dylan, and Flatt &
Scruggs. But more than anyone else Platter cites Neil Young as
the man whose music affected him the most. Thor released his debut album
in 2013 and since that time his career's been on a steady path upward. Take
Time will no doubt be welcomed by fans as well as those who are new
to this man's craft. He's backed by some superb players: Paul Kovac
(banjo, guitar, drums, background vocals), Paul Lewis (bass, background
vocals), and David Mayfield (finger snaps). This album has a cool
genuine overall sound and vibe that is immediately appealing. Smooth and
substantial tracks include "Destined," "There For You,"
"Gun Shy," and "Pullman Blues."
Pylon
Reenactment Society - Part Time Punks Session
(Independently released 12" vinyl EP, Pop)
Although other bands had much greater financial success, Pylon was
easily one of the most artistically credible Athens, Georgia bands from
the 1980s. They had a sound that was like no one else at the time in the
Southeastern United States--so it was no wonder that Danny Beard
signed them to his highly influential DB record label. The band won
over a great many fans with their hard hitting focused live show. But in
1983 they threw in the towel because they weren't having fun doing it anymore.
But then, to everyone's delight, they reformed in 1989...only to disband
again years later due to the death of Randall Bewley. Fast forward
to 2014...and the band has once again resurfaced with a new line up, now
going by the name Pylon Reenactment Society. We approached this one
with some hesitation, but one spin of this EP dashed all our fears. These
folks truly create that magical Pylon sound. Yup, hearing these tracks
you may never even believe so many years have passed and that the players
have changed. The band is comprised of Vanessa Brisco Hay, Damon Denton,
Jason Nesmith, Joe Rowe, and Kay Stanton. These recordings capture
the band playing with the same furious sound as when it began. Totally crazy
fun that'll have you bopping and pogo-ing until you drop. Six tracks here:
"Beep," "K," "Precaution," "Feast On
My Heart," "Buzz," and "Crazy." On beautiful clear
vinyl. Recommended. Top pick.
Lou
Reed & Kris Kristofferson - The Bottom Line Archive (Double CD, Bottom
Line Archive, Pop)
We've been thoroughly entertained by each release in the Bottom Line Archive
series. This one's even more intriguing and unusual than previous albums
as it presents the unique pairing of Lou Reed and Kris Kristofferson.
These two discs present audio from a live concert the two played together
at The Bottom Line Cabaret in Greenwich Village on February 2, 1994. Songs
are interspersed with each artist recalling various events and aspects in
their lengthy careers, with Vin Scelsa directing the proceedings.
The key word here is...spontaneous. This one-time event of these
two artists meeting and performing on the same stage happened only once,
and it was neither scripted nor rehearsed. This slick double disc set is
housed in a well-designed four panel cardboard sleeve. Sure to appeal to
fans of both artists, this is yet another superb addition to the continually
growing Bottom Line catalog. Intriguing live performances include "Betrayed,"
"Help Me Make It Through the Night," "Legendary Hearts,"
and "Sweet Jane."
Sarah
Lou Richards - Someone Who Gets Me (Independently
released CD, Pop/Americana)
Sarah Lou Richards has a sound that could easily catapult her into
major stardom. Someone Who Gets Me combines elements from pop, country,
and Americana to create what sounds like a string of hit singles...singles
that you've never heard before. Originally from Wisconsin, Richards now
resides in Nashville. Interestingly, the tracks on this album were recorded
in Minneapolis, Minnesota. But they still kinda have that Nashville sound.
Richards has so much going for her. She writes friendly and immediately
catchy songs that stick in your head like glue. And she's got a voice that
really works magic on listeners. Thirteen captivating tracks here that should
please just about anyone who loves good solid classic pop. Catchy-as-heck
tracks include "High on a Hill," "Right Where I Need To Be,"
"New Kind of Song," and "Love Always Wins."
Tokyo
Rosenthal - This Minstrel Life (CD,
Rock and Sock, Pop/roots)
Tokyo Rosenthal is one of those guys out there who's doing things
his own way...and succeeding. And that's mainly because he has the drive
and talent to make things happen. Without the help of major labels or music
executives, Rosenthal has managed to develop a truly devoted fan base. And
those fans know with each and every release that Tokyo will deliver the
goods. This Minstrel Life is divided into two sections. The first
half of the album is six new tracks, while the latter half presents four
live recordings. It's all good because it was all created with the right
intent. If there's one word we would use to describe Mr. Rosenthal that
word would probably be...consistent. You kinda always know what to
expect from this guy and at the same time...you're always pleased and satisfied.
Life is yet another credible, consistent collection of intelligent
songs created by a man who truly knows his stuff. Intriguing tracks include
"Hundred Mile Man," "Now I Believe There's a Devil,"
"Mama Tried," and "Love Won Out."
Maria
Schafer - To Know Love... (Independently
released CD, Female vocal/jazz/pop)
Smooth, breezy, inspired...and genuine. Up-and-coming jazz vocalist
Maria Schafer immediately reminded us of babysue favorite
Peggy Lee. Just like Ms. Lee, Ms. Schafer has an amazing voice...and
makes it all seem so easy and completely effortless. Originally from Vancouver,
British Columbia, Maria now lives in Los Angeles, California. For the past
two years she's been the featured vocalist touring with The Glenn Miller
Orchestra. Give To Know Love... a spin, and you'll see why Schafer
was chosen for this coveted spot. While we're reminded of Peggy Lee, Maria
compares her sound to Carmen McRae, Madeleine Peyroux, Becca Stevens,
Gretchen Parlato, and Karen Carpenter (!). We can hear traces
of all of these, and more. Love... is a stunning debut. Make a note
of Schafer's name, because you're going to be seeing and hearing it a lot
over the coming years. With a voice like hers, there are no limits to how
far this exceedingly talented lady can go. Twelve captivating tracks here,
almost an hour's worth of quality music. Our favorite cuts include "You
Don't Know What Love Is," "Body and Soul," and "Lush
Life." Beautiful stuff...totally captivating. Recommended. Top
pick.
Lalo
Schifrin - Jean-Michel
Bernard plays Lalo Schifrin (CD, Varese
Sarabande/Cristal, Music for film & television)
This might best be described as a crossover album, because the music will
appeal to fans of several different genres. This album presents the music
of the legendary Lao Schifrin as played and interpreted by French
composer/pianist Jean-Michel Bernard. These tracks were recorded
in honor of Schifrin's eighty-fifth birthday--Schifrin himself is even featured
playing piano on three of these recordings. Precisely-executed renditions
of well-known themes include "Mannix," "Cool Hand Luke,"
and "Mission: Impossible"...as well as many more. This music will
appeal not only to those who love music for film and television, but also
to those who love and appreciate jazz and instrumental music. It sure sounds
like the folks creating the music were enjoying what they were doing, because
that seems to come across clearly on these tracks. This package also includes
a slick booklet with plenty of informative notes courtesy of author Stephane
LeRouge. Top notch sound quality here, which is always the case when
it comes to releases on the Varese Sarabande label.
Slaughter
and the Dogs - Tokyo Dogs (CD, Cleopatra, Rock)
Talk about a totally rockin' experience. This album features recordings
of Slaughter and the Dogs playing live in Tokyo. This must've been
quite a show, as the band sounds like they were having one helluva
time playing for the folks in Japan. Founding members Mick Rossi
and Wayne Barrett and their bandmates were touring to promote the
recently released Vicious, their first album of new material in fifteen
years. As such, the band and the audience sound like they were on fire.
On this disc the guys play an impressive selection of their own originals
plus some well chosen covers (most notably a totally bitchin' cover of Lou
Reed's "I'm Waiting For My Man"). If you like loud in-your-face
rock music played with aggressive style, you're likely to get a major charge
out of this one. Kickass tracks include "I Got Your Number," "The
Bitch," "Hell in New York," and "We Don't Care."
This album is also available in your choice of yellow or red vinyl. YES.
The Spinto Band - Nice and Nicely Done (CD reissue, Bar/None,
Pop/rock)
A most welcome reissue of the debut album from The Spinto Band that
originally came out in 2005. The guys in this band lived a dream that many
could only contemplate. When Nice and Nicely Done was being recorded
and released, some of the band members were just graduating from high school.
Producer Robin Eaton heard one of their songs and invited them to
his Alex the Great Studios in Nashville to record this album, and the rest
is history. The reissue on Bar/None is being offered as a CD as well as
a deluxe vinyl release that includes twelve previously unreleased bonus
tracks. Listening to this album, it isn't hard to see why it created such
a buzz years ago. These tracks are smart and focused, and they ultimately
capture the excitement and true energy of a young up-and-coming band. There
are so many cases in the world where the buzz surrounding a band or artist
is completely unwarranted. That is not the case here. These guys
created a huge amount of interest right off the bat because they recorded
some totally killer tracks. And this reissue makes is very clear that these
songs have stood the test of time. Kickass cuts include "Brown Boxes,"
"Oh Mandy," "Crack the Whip," and "Mountains."
Recommended. Top pick.
Jon
Stickley Trio - Maybe Believe (Independently
released CD, Instrumental/progressive)
A different sort of instrumental album created by musicians who really
know their stuff. This Asheville, North Carolina-based trio is comprised
of Jon Stickley (guitar), Lyndsay Pruett (violin), and Patrick
Armitage (drums). Considering the fact that only three people are playing
the music, these songs have a really big sound. Amazingly, many of
these recordings were/are first takes. We're particularly impressed that
these guys chose to leave slight imperfections in their music. In the twenty-first
century, music that is too perfect usually equals music that is b-o-r-i-n-g.
As such, we seem to be on a continual search to find bands and artists who
aren't striving for perfection because it sure makes for a more interesting
listening experience. The songs on the interestingly-titled Maybe Believe
exist somewhere in the territory where progressive meets jazz meets roots
meets pop. The album mainly consists of originals but also includes three
well-chosen covers. Possibly the best word to describe the proceedings here
would be...fluid. These tracks give us the same sort of feeling we
experience when watching clouds roll by in the sky or a river flowing on
a sunny afternoon. The cool cover art was provided courtesy of Asheville
artist Frances Dominguez. Twelve thought-provoking cuts including
"Jewels," "Playpeople," "The Price of Being Nice,"
and "Lady Time."
This
Pale Fire - Alchemy (CD-R, Tone Tonic, Pop)
Subdued moody pop. Aukland's This Pale Fire is the band/project created
by Corban Koschak. Alchemy is a collection of tracks that
merge the worlds of pop and folk in a masterful way. Koschak writes songs
that are very personal and they're delivered in a very direct manner, using
only basic ingredients to create the overall sound. Expertly produced by
Levi Patel, the tracks on this album have a pure, sparse sound...but
they're accentuated by some lovely subtleties. We particularly love the
soft atmospheric strings in the background. Koschak's voice is the centerpiece
of his music, and he has a voice that truly communicates the lyrics he sings.
Twelve remarkably effective cuts here including "Northern Lights,"
"Float Out," "End of Science," and "Outro."
Tough
Age - Shame (CD, Mint,
Rock/pop)
Whoever's in charge of selecting bands/artists that days for Canada's Mint
label is doing an exceptional job. Just about every Mint release
we've heard lately is an absolute bull's eye. Once again, that's the case
here. Tough Age is a killer new band with a sound that immediately
resonates. While spinning Shame, we couldn't help but be reminded
of some of our favorite bands from the 1970s...a decade that was chock full
of some of the most refreshingly original underground rock bands of all
time. But rather than sounding dated, these songs sound completely relevant
in 2017. Perhaps it's because there are also threads of some of our favorite
bands from the 1990s laced into the mix. Like the 1970s, the 1990s was a
peak decade in the world of underground rock and pop. So hearing a band
whose music seems to have evolved from both is particularly appealing. Overdubs
were used sparingly in recording this album. That could explain why these
tracks come across sounding very much like a real band playing. We love
everything about Tough Age. Great name, great songs, great guitars, great
bass lines, great drums, great vocals. This is a case where EVERYTHING was
done right. Eight cuts that clock in at just over half an hour...and every
one's a keeper. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Nik
Turner - Life In Space (CD, Purple Pyramid / Cleopatra,
Rock/psychedelia)
You have to hand it to Nik Turner for perseverance. Turner is best
known as one of the original members of Hawkwind, the influential
British band from the 1970s who forever changed the face of psychedelic
rock music. Life In Space presents eight lengthy recordings that
contain the elements that Nik is known for...droning rhythms...mind-numbing
guitar riffs...vocals drenched in echo...and, of course, those spacey experimental
electronics. Joining him on these tracks are Nicky Garratt, Hephera Moon,
Bryce Shelton, Jason Willer, Simon House, Jurgen Engler, Chris Lietz,
and Paul Rudolph (whew!). One thing's for sure about this
man's career. He has never ever sold out. And he probably never will.
These tripped out tracks will appeal to the same type of fans who originally
supported his music decades ago...folks who truly enjoy expanding their
minds and their consciousness. Interestingly, Turner and his bandmates are
also touring in support of this release. Cool psychedelic slices include
"Why Are You?", "Back to Earth," "Secrets of the
Galaxy," and "As You Were."
Twin
Trances - Two On One (CD, Dirty Slacks, Underground rock)
There's not enough truly strange music on the planet these days. But that
seems to be slowly changing somewhat, as weirder and less commercial bands
are popping up like poppies in the United States of America. Two On One
is a truly strange spin with music that's probably too far out for most
music fans. Twin Trances is the Atlanta, Georgia-based duo of Chris
Strawn and Chris Brooks. If you like your music drenched in effects,
you're gonna love this one. Two On One has effects galore...but
there's so much more as well. Riff rock...psychedelic noise...throbbing
rhythms...these guys have it all. At a point in time when so many
folks have allowed themselves to become TAME and DULL...these guys are at
the opposite end of the spectrum, making hard-driving psychedelia for a
whole new generation. If you really want to expand your mind, check out
Twin Trances videos. YES. These guys remind us of a whole host of bands
we've been crazy about for years including (but not limited to) the iconic
Hawkwind and Austin's vastly underrated Ed Hall. This is a
true underground album. You won't hear about it in mainstream media
because those kind of people wouldn't support it. This is at the far end
of crazy creativity and wildly inventive experimentation. Killer tracks
include "Clean Enough," "Peacock," "Blush,"
and "Reject." Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
W.
G. Snuffy Walden - The West Wing: Original
Television Soundtrack (Limited edition double CD, Varese
Sarabande, Soundtrack)
W. G. Snuffy Walden began his career in 1968 when he formed the blues
rock trio Stray Dog. After going solo and touring with some major
league artists in the 1970s, he was approached by film and television agents
to see if he would be interested in creating music for them. And the rest
is history. This is the sixth installment in the Varese Sarabande We
Hear You series...a limited edition double CD featuring music Walden
recorded for the television series The West Wing. To reward his talent,
Snuffy won the Emmy for Outstanding Original Main Title - Theme Music...so
there was already a built-in audience for this music before it was even
released. These two discs present music that is exceptionally well-realized
and expertly arranged. The music is so precise and slick that it should
please even the most discriminating classical music buffs. There is a wealth
of superb music here...forty-four tracks spread across both discs. This
will obviously be welcomed by fans of the television show. But, more importantly,
the music should also find an entirely new audience...those who appreciate
the best of the best recorded for film and television. If you love
the piano, you'll love these compositions. If you love strings, you'll be
rewarded. And if you love carefully crafted orchestrations, this will hit
your target. Impeccable music that will last for decades and generations
to come. Carefully constructed tracks include "The Aftermath,"
"The First Commandment," "Charlie in the Oval Office,"
and "90 Miles Away." Only 2,000 copies are being made available
of this release so...get yours now. Recommended. Top pick.
The
Warlocks - Vevey (CD, Cleopatra,
Rock/psychedelia)
The first official live album from Los Angeles, California-based band The
Warlocks. Recorded in 2016 in Vevey, Switzerland during the band's tour
of Europe, this album captures all the energy and spontaneity of these guys
in concert. Fans will definitely want this one, as it may very well
be the definitive live recording of the band. For those who are easily annoyed
by live recordings where there's way too much audience noise happening,
this one will be particularly appealing. You can hear the audience on occasion,
but it's so low that you barely notice it. The sound quality is so good
on these tracks that it almost sounds like the band was performing live
in a studio. Bobby, JC, Earl, Corey, Chris, and Plucky were
obviously on the top of their game at this show. The band's slightly psychedelic
heavy rock has strange hypnotic qualities that make it transcend the medium.
The recording features sixteen tracks from the band's catalog, past and
present. You may very well find yourself drooling over juicy tracks like
"Red Camera," "Shake the Dope Out," "Baby Blue,"
"Hurricane Heart Attack," and "Zombie Like Lovers."
If you love The Warlocks you'll love this. If you've never heard the band,
this album will make a believer out of you. Available either as a CD house
in an mini-LP style gatefold sleeve or as a double LP with your choice of
either blue or clear vinyl (yes!).
Warning
Light - At the End of the Road (CD-R,
Stickfigure, Atmospheric/electronic/instrumental)
Yet another mood enhancing audio journey brought to you courtesy of Warning
Light. The band is the ongoing project created by D Haddon, who
has been recording under the moniker for about a decade. He has worked with
a whole slew of electronic artists in the Atlanta, Georgia area over the
years. At the End of the Road finds him returning to his roots, as
these tracks have a more ambient/atmospheric sound and feel. According to
the press release that accompanied this disc, the album is "...about
the inevitability of endings, and how those endings create space for something
new." These twelve tracks demonstrate an impressive depth that
shows how much this fellow has learned over the years. Recorded at his own
Bedsitter Studios in Avondale Estates, Road is probably the most
fully realized Warning Light album yet. Haddon spent about three years recording
these tracks. And the attention to detail is obvious. Beautifully
realized compositions include "Jetplanes Leaving at Dawn," "Decaying
in Evening Light," "The Vast Empty," and "Expression
of an Impression." Top pick.
James
Warren - Innocent Bystander (CD, Angel Air, Pop)
Considering the length and depth of his career, it seems incredible that
after all this time James Warren's only real reference point for
most people is the hit song "Everybody's Got To Learn Sometime"
by The Korgis. It's a great song, no doubt...but this talented fellow
should be appreciated for so much more than that. We're keeping our
fingers crossed that his solo career will yield another major hit because
this man surely deserves it. Warren came to the attention of most folks
in the criminally-overlooked band Stackridge (the band recently split
after many wonderful decades). James is still going strong, as is evidenced
by the cool pop tracks on Innocent Bystander. He's still got that
magical quality in his voice, and the songs are immediately familiar and
catchy. Will this be Warren's breakout solo album? There's no telling really.
But if not, it won't be because of a lack of good material. This album offers
nine slick hummable songs, some of which remind us in many ways of music
by The Pearlfishers. Our favorite cuts include "The First Time,"
"You've Got the Love That Matters," and "I Just Want You
to Tell Me." The cover bears a curious resemblance to Sparks'
Kimono My House album (!).
Weatherboy - Weatherboy (CD, Stand Down,
Pop)
Nice, smart, free-flowing modern pop. We received this album with no accompanying
information, so we had to do some searching on the internet to find out
more about Weatherboy. The band is the duo of Ragnar Rosinkranz
and John Walquist (although Phil Keaggy is also listed
as a member on the back cover). On this self-titled album, they also
enlist the help of an impressive array of additional artists/musicians.
The single word that probably best sums things up here is...classic.
These guys aren't making music that'll disappear from your memory in a month
or two. These tracks were created using traditional instruments and they
have a timeless sound that should appeal to listeners of all ages. We've
always been suckers for great melodies. That's probably why this album immediately
stuck in our minds. These guys' vocals are truly exceptional, as are the
arrangements. This is definitely one of those cases where they've done everything
right. Cool, intelligent modern pop tracks include "Got A Good
Thing," "Great, Great Life," "A Bright Future,"
and "Full Bloom." Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Wiccid - By Design (CD, Cleopatra,
Electro-industrial synth-pop)
Industrial pop/rock is finally seeing a resurgence this year...and it's
about time (!). We were crazy about all the harsh abrasive loud industrial
bands in the 1990s...when the world was full of loud guitars, distorted
keyboards, and techno beats. Wiccid is the new band created by Erie
Loch...a talented fellow who has worked with so many cutting edge bands
and artists that it's mind boggling. To support the release of By Design,
in late 2017 Loch took his band on the Extreme Fest 17 tour which
also included Lords of Acid, Combichrist, Christian Death, En
Esch, and more. This album has a sound that will be familiar to folks
who were into the industrial scene at the end of last century, but the sound/genre
has been updated so that it doesn't sound dated. Listening to these tracks,
it becomes obvious why so many have chosen to work with Mr. Loch. He clearly
knows how to put the pieces together so that everything works. Classy
throbbing techno/industrial tracks include "Ash," "Break,"
"Lights," and "The Grand Comedian."
The
Woggles - Tally Ho! (CD, Wicked Cool, Rock/pop)
Brand new album from legendary underground band The Woggles. These
guys have been entertaining audiences and themselves since the late 1980s.
But you'd never know it from the fresh and groovy sound of the songs on
Tally Ho! Recorded in Athens, Georgia and produced by Jim Diamond,
this album presents the band doing what they do best. Hold onto your seat
as these fine gents rip and roar their way through thirteen cool garage
rockers. We love it when bands/artists stick to their guns and refuse to
alter their path in order to gain fame and fortune. The Woggles are one
of those great bands who have chosen to play the game their own way without
letting outside influences spoil the game. Like previous releases, this
album is a pumped up feelgood experience. The songs are chock full of groovy
guitars, catchy melodies, and hypnotic rhythms. Our favorite cuts include
"Luminol Test," "Judas," "Waiting For the Rain,"
and "Be Seeing You." Top pick.
The
Woolly Bushmen - Arduino (Vinyl LP,
Pig Baby, Rock)
Now here's a band that truly packs a mighty punch. The Woolly
Bushmen have a sound that is something like a cross between early Creedence
Clearwater Revival mixed with The Cramps...combined with a hefty
dose of twenty-first century garage rock. Recorded by Rick Miller
(Southern Culture on the Skids) at Kudzu Ranch, Arduino is
like a great big tidal wave of cold water smacking you in the face. The
three guys in The Woolly Bushmen have a sound that is immediately gripping
and real...and they have an image to match. Pull up some of the band's live
videos to experience what this band is all about. This beautifully designed
vinyl LP features eleven cool rockers that ought to please even the most
jaded listeners. The band is comprised of Simon Palombi (organ, guitar,
lead vocal), Jacob Miller (guitar, bass), and Julian Palombi
(drums). Loud distorted guitar...pulsing drums...and vocals that orbit the
earth...this is a band with true presence and style. Kickass tracks include
"Something New," "I Don't Want You," "I'd Rather
Die," "Blue Powder," and "If It's All Right With You."
Crazy inspired fun from start to finish. Recommended. Top pick.
Jerry Yester - Pass Your Light Around (CD, Omnivore
Recordings, Pop)
An exceptionally well-prepared collection of unreleased tracks from Jerry
Yester. In many cases, albums created from unreleased tracks like this
come off sounding like a jigsaw puzzle where many of the pieces just don't
fit together right. This this collection (prepared by Yester and Cheryl
Pawelski) comes off sounding like an album that was recorded in its
entirety for release. Yester has produced and/or played with some amazing
acts including The Association, The Turtles, Tim Buckley, Tom Waits,
the Modern Folk Quartet, Rosebud, the Lovin' Spoonful, and Judy Henske.
But despite all of this, there never was a solo album bearing his name...until
now. This album collects a batch of recordings Jerry made in the 1970s,
with one exception that was recorded in 1964. Recently remastered by Michael
Graves, these tracks sound amazing. Hearing these, you'd never
guess they were unreleased tracks recovered from Yester's personal archives.
The music's great...but so is the packaging. The disc is housed in a beautifully
designed digipak sleeve, complete with a very informative 15 page booklet
featuring a new essay about the tracks written by Barry Alfonso.
These all sound like lost hits. Our favorites include "Pass Your Light
Around," "The Whiskey Moon," "The Minutes," and
"All I Can Do Is Dance."
A
Ryan Adams - Heartbreaker (deluxe edition)
Ryan Adams - Dustjacket (relaxed edition)
Additional Items Composed - Reversal of radishes
Additional Items Reversed - Back to the additional items
Adele - My frisky rat puppy done ate my head off
Alice Copper - Lob it to Seth
Allman Brothers - Crackdown concert 1986
Shirlette Ammons - Language barrier
Am Not - Am too
Anohni - Hopelessness
Anthrax - For all kings
Antlers for Booboo - Oh no not that tired old runt again
Apples Got Smushy - Train smush
Athens Is Not A City - Trauma for the bush animals
Augusta Is Not A City - Wilma for the plush panels
B
Bad Bump - Banana tread
Badfigure - Crooked down
Bambi Dambi - Lambi
Ballerina Pumps - Blackass
Barge - Limpy
Beadulls - Desmocker
Beatles - Medium rare
Bee Numb - Numb bee
Beyonce - Sorry
Beyonce - I can dance even if I can't do anything else very well
Beyonce - If all you want is an ugly body and face, I've got both
Beyonce - Don't you get tired of hearing my stupid name all the time
Beyonce - I'm really a boring old hag who looks terrible without thick layers
of make-up
Beyond the Beyonder - Blander and blander
Bjork - Vulnicura live
Black Tabitha - Pastor of senility
Blankets for Blankets - Laps
Blender in a Blinder - Fizzle
Breezer the Flew - Like dazzlers in fume
Butler Pudding - Lippity gris gris
Buzz's Lamp Cord - Tawny frink
C
Car Mump - Dazed and refused
Casket of Corformity - Laser dog
Cast of Cast - Lastly
Cat Grave - Mickey's laboratory
Cesula - Maid in martians
Chance The Rapper - Coloring book
Chicago - Love songs
Chump - Malaria
Chunks of Paisley Pumps - Lordy the snore is a plaza burn
Eric Clapton - I still do
Phil Collins - No jacket required
Come To Lulu's Nurse - Romp and the bumpy tum tum
Confederate Railroad - Happy to be alive
Conscious Or Not - Grumpy lazy
Crap You Like - Tape measure
Crosby, Stills & Nash - Survival Sunday
Crunchy Links - Switches and prawns
Czerchnkii - Dim
D
Dadfinger - Where's dad's finger when you need it?
Dae Dae - Mae Mae
Daisy Days - Freezing
Damn People - Damn People
Damn Tumblers - Damn Tumblers
Damn Warp - Damn Warp
Damn Zoo - Damn Zoo
Deftones - Gore
Diets Are For Dimwits - Lassie's lost pudding cup
Dimmer than Dim - Inputs
Dion - New York is my home
Dirty Pennies - Flocks and pimps
Doves That Die Today - Lassie
Drippy Dennis - Directional
Dry Potato - Sync
Ducks for Ducks - Nine hundred ponies
Dumb Sounds - Like Nanny and the poodle
E
Each and Each - Teach
Eachy - Preachy
Eat The Bounty Feathers - Naptime
Ectonerf - Bah baddah bah
Elephant Muff - Beneath the blurry knob
Elves and Bumpy Thumpers - Original motion picture soundtrack
Emergency Flakes - Phasers
Empty - Flow
Empty Flower - 1 2 3 4
Enter the Entrance With Lockets - Glasses on the puddle
Eventually We'll All Die With Nothing - Pom poms
Everyone But - But Everyone
Ewe - Ranch funk
EZ - Not so
F
FA - La la
Famous Famous - Converter
Far Out Far In - Farin
Faxes Forever - Limp little pixies
Ferz - Lizzy
Fifty Million - Zero lads
Finks Forever - Live at the dead
Five Times Fifty-Five - Live
Four Times Four Is Four - Five times
Foxes - All I need
Fume - Lumps
Funky Laminate - Parking
Fur For Francis - Pouches
G
Gas Pumps - Last primper
Gauge Rage - Now cow
Germany's Burp - Lamp drill
Get Your Begging Done - Tower bitch
Vince Gill - Down to my last bad habit
Goo Goo Dolls - Boxes
Graham Slackers - Naturally grabby
Ariana Grande - Into you
Grass Patches - Dolby
Josh Groban - Stages live
David Guetta - This one's for you
Guns N Roses - Acoustic session: Radio broadcast 1987
H
Hamster on a Bun - Heartache on a bun
Hay - Hay
Hazle - Measurements
Hell for Humans - Happiness is a dumb puppy
Help Me Help Me - Liver
Help the Hopeless - Bloody hearts get you nowhere
Hissy - Laserbon
Hitt - Dawn for the loud birds
Hizzers - Stuck
Ian Hunted - Punts and nuttters
Husperate - ADN
Hut for Henry - Universe of sandy
Huzzle - Earlier albums
I
Ian - Jackknife
Icky - Picky, picky, picky
If It Dies Don't Touch It - I offered more than they wanted and they took
it
If You Knew Nothing You Would Be Nothing - Drips
Inky Doll - Dampness and dryness
In The End The Beginning - Ridgefield
It Stays Warm - Square butter
IX Lamb Sweater - To each his each
IZZ - Each his to his
J
Michael Jackson - Off the wall
Michael Jackson - Towers of nothing
Michael Jackson - Nosey dopes
Jerry's Apple - Towers
Jerry's Crud - Narry a buster
Jersey is Swervy - Translustre
Jethro Toil - Sick as a tick
Jethro Wump - Aquatong
Elton John - Wonderful crazy night
Elton John - Where did my voice go?
Jones Is A Donkey - Drammamine
Jones Is An Elephant - Mine ain't mine
Judas Priest - Battle cry
Junk Is Just Junk - Lady trunk
K
Kaas - Lacey
Kalesh - Kaos
Kandy and the Ks - Lassie's drool
Kows - Land of the Kows
Krap - Krap
Krazy Cow - Lots of tips
Krunchy Krunch - Captain's caps and tons
Kudzu's Lamp - Drastic
Kunks - The Late Glossy Kunks Album
KWKWERA - Lists
L
Ladies For Pretzels - Louder than the other thing that we had discussed
earlier
Lamb Peppers - Smuppy
Cindi Lauper - Detour
Laxative Preamble - Naps and snappers
Let There Be Let - Now there be meow
Lisa Said - First time, long time
Lists - Stop the Lists
Loretta Lynn - Full circle
Loud and Loud - Dull and dull
Lumineers - Cleopatra
Lumps - Lousy mouses
Lung Disease - Trowel
M
Manners and Nanners - Tablets for pokey
Masta Ace - The falling season
Matchbox - Going down there
Math for Math's Sake - Plazas
Maze Lops - Trazzler
Mazer's Big Torch Bucket - Lipsy
Millie's Pork Bucket - Boxes won't go away
Monkey Chuck - Arlene
Monkey Davis - Nervous
Monkey Pauline - Damnable
Moo Moo the Bow Wow - Trouser's ain't fresh no more
Motorhead - Clean your clock
Mrowl - Prowling for mrowl
Murphy and Nop - Dammy and slop
Murphy's Paw - Plaid and dumb
N
David Nail - Fighter
Nasal and Tonsil - Lasers and urchers
Ned and the Headrumpers - Trowels
Aaron Neville - Apache
Newsboys - God's not dead
No More Blouses - Farmy
More More Cactus - Deal or no no
Now Cows - Blouses and thermometers
Numb's Fumbler - Town and mouth
O
Octorub - Norbie
Oh No That Old Shithead Is Here Again - Rotten old schmucks with no manners
Oooh - Uuuuuh
Oooh Oooh - Uuuuuh uhhh
Opposite of Opposite - Lopposite
Orange Floyd - Sharp glide of the goon
Osmosis - USB #7
Other Muzzles - Howdy Pops
Oz and the Schnoz - Pow wows and monkeys
P
Painted Fuss - Nope
Pants and Pantless - Rainy press
Part Blub - Fran is ugly
Paws With Fingers - Ink bus
Pet Shop Boys - Super
Poodle Powder - Dust of the dawgie
Mike Posner - At night, alone
The Puddles - Nappy load
Punk Biscuits - Sap
Punk Noodles - Take this noodle and cook it
Puny - Runny infection
Pusfergradison - Nay, the basket sayeth
Q
Quacks - Trippy truck
Quails and Trucks - Lamb power
Queen For A Tray - Lower the pork
Query - Stop the questions
Quest for Dope - Smoking snuff
Quails Got Drunk - Beer and tissue paper
Quicker Than Daffy - Cords that don't work
Quiet Little Worm Thing - Never thought about it and never want to now
Quiz Germs - Links that don't work
Quurtie - Lousy bench
R
Radiohead - Daydreaming
Radiodud - Half of the basic shop
Debbie Rafter - Lemme after
Raws - Raws and raws
Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dark necessities
Reel to Raoul - Mouthpiece
Reform Club - Never yesterday
Rely On Relish - Candy dash
Mick Rhodes & The Hard Eight - Paradise city
Rihanna - Anti
Rolling Bones - Get your mama's kraut
Rumpy - USBs and RTDs
Runny - Tippy's revenge
Rush - Beneath, between and behind
Ruzzer - Bow to the Ruzzer
Rylo - The dog's head is not steady anymore
S
Larry Samual - Barney doesn't have hugs for me
Santa Died Last Night - Presenting...
Santana - Santana IV
Blake Shelton - If I'm honest
Blake Shelton - If you're into what I do you're obviously on the wrong web
site
Blake Shelton - If people think I'm handsome they must really be confused
and retarded
Blake Shelton - If I'm dishonest
Shotgun Louise - Rampy dim
Shotgun Tina - Lousy lamps
Shotgun Zappa - Mouses and mouses
Smashing Drumsticks - Pass the pepper
Smuppy - The tatters that ground pepper
Snoop Dogg - Coolaid
Sparse - Kim's Ono spy mouse
Rick Springfield - Rocket science
Bruce Springsteen - Roxy night
Mavis Staples - Livin' on a high note
Steely Dan - Doing it in California
Barbra Streisand - Encore
Styx - Suite madame blue: Radio broadcast 1977
Sultans of Swing - Subcontinental drift
Swap and Change - Loudness weird
Swenter - Flowers
Swy - Rent
T
Tai Tai - Lists
Talking Sheds - Lambs forking up tonsils
Tea For Lunch - Massachusetts isn't a country
Teepee Tupperware - Laura's butter pand
Telltale - Taller toll
Thuds - Ready for emperors
Thunder - All you can eat
Justin Timberlake - Can't stop the feeling
Trunk Idiots - Laugh when it's all over
Try To Try - Stop and try
Tummy Bus - Lambs and prawns
Tunker - Lassie's paw
Twisted Sister - Rock 'N' Roll Saviours: The early years
Steven Tyler - We're all somebody from nowhere
TZ397 - Rowl the smunk
U
Ugly Banana - How do the hussy wink
Ugly Orange - Do the mouse
Ultraplucks - Eyebrow mania
Umbrella Vision - Church of tassle
Uncle Duck - Mushed
Uncle Pregnant - Does and rodents
Keith Urban - Ripchord
V
Various Artists - A collection of dull dribble that no one will ever notice
Various Artists - We stopped makin' em because they stopped buyin' em
Various Artists - No one buys these kinds of compilations anymore so that's
why we keep producing 'em
Various Artists - Tribute to someone whose name we can't remember
Various Artists - Trying to get something heard never works
Various Artists - The most boring bands you never cared to hear
Various Artists - We've the last ones to know the last ones
Various Artists - Our albums are always the first to get thrown away
Various artists - Who gets to eat the trash
W
Wally Is Near - Stamp that thing goodbye
Wanda and the Wandas - Limp
We Don't Get It - Now is the now
Well I Guess This Is Just Another One - Lumps
Whether Or Not - Lousy weather
William XIII - XIII or 238
Lucinda Williams - Ghosts of Highway 20
Wind That Goes - Don't
X
Xie - La la the distance away
X-ray Pecs - Lookie away
X-ray Stats - Box cutters and tramplers
Xzistance - Lift down
Y
Yack Yack - Tacky tick
Yanni - The dream concert
Yell All The Time For Whatever You Pay For It - Taxi service
Yellow Floyd - Park wide until noon
Yesterday's Potties - Damp portions
Yes We Will Be Bananas - Trap doors
Yes You - You guessed it
You might - Yes you might
You never - Well I never
Yoyos for Panama - Sharp
Yoyos for Zop - Trollo mia presto
Yuck This Tastes Awful - Don't eat it then
Z
Zappa and the Zappettes - Trown
Frank Zappa - How flowers got in the potty train
Zunk - How the leaves got patchy
Zupper - Towels for Blanche
Zyle - Twelve and fifty