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October 2019 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews by
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LMNOP discography. Listen/stream on Bandcamp, CDBaby, & Spotify
Everything irrelevant foe uss awe.
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Akku Quintet - Depart (CD, 7DMedia, Progressive/instrumental)
Nice soothing intelligent instrumental music for discriminating music fans. The folks in Akku Quintet create cool puzzling music that combines elements from artists like Robert Fripp, Phillip Glass, and more. Depart features songs that sound something like a cross between progressive rock, jazz, and modern classical. The quintet is comprised of Manuel Pasquinelli (drums), Michael Gilsenan (saxophone), Maja Nydegger (keyboards), Markus Ischer (guitar), and Andi Schnellmann (bass). The tracks on this album have more in common with motion picture soundtracks than popular music. Unlike so many modern progressive bands who layer too much and make things too complex, these folks made the right decision to keep things relatively simple. And that works in their favor, as this makes it easier to distinguish each musician's input...and to appreciate their true dexterity. Some are already aware of Pasquinelli as a member of the Swiss post-rock group Sonar. Fans of that band...or just about anyone else who appreciates cool and heady modern progressive music...should get a major kick out of Depart. This album is smart, inventive, and ultimately very, very listenable. Cool slightly trippy tracks include "Largo," "Breeze," and "Cyan."The Armoires - Zibaldone (CD, Big Stir, Pop)
More refreshingly upbeat and positive pop from California's sunshine-driven band The Armoires. While spinning this album we kept thinking these songs reminded us of someone. And then it finally hit us. These folks' music reminds us in many ways of The Cowsills, who some music fans will remember for their wonderfully refreshing hit tune "The Rain, The Park, and Other Things" (which still sounds great in 2019). Though the overall sound here is far more current than such a comparison might imply, the music does have that same sort of warm and inviting sound that made The Cowsills such a favorite among listeners decades ago. Produced by Steven Eric Wilson (of the band Plasticsoul), the band members describe Zibaldone as "a sonic love letter to music itself." You can certainly hear and pick up on the fact that music plays an integral and critical part of these folks' lives. This band is driven by the songwriting skills of Christina Bulbenko and Rex Broome. And rounding out the group are Larysa Bulbenko (viola, backing vocals), Clifford Ulrich (bass, harmonica, backing vocals), and Derek Hanna (drums). These tracks find the band doing what they do best...crafting and recording smart layered classic pop with smart gliding melodies and lyrics that are personal and inspired. No review of The Armoires would be complete without mentioning the fact that Christina and Rex are also the folks behind the ultra-prolific Big Stir label, which has become increasingly popular and influential among underground pop bands and fans all over the world. These tracks feature an intriguing array of talented guest artists including members of Spygenius, The Bobbleheads, The Corner Laughters, Toxic Melons, and Blake Jones (from Blake Jones and the Trike Shop)...plus Michael Simmons, Steve Rosenbaum, Matthew Seligman (ex-Soft Boys), and Miranda Broome. And not surprising considering how well loved this band is, all of the band members and guests are included in the carefully drawn nifty cartoon cover art. Cool reflective pop tracks include "Appalachu Krainia," "McCadden," "Satellite Business," and "When We Were In England (And You Were Dead)." Smart focused music with a conscience.Big Star - In Space (CD, Omnivore Recordings, Pop)
This album was created by the guys who can best be described simply as Big Star II. The original band only recorded three albums and then quickly splintered because of a lack of financial success. But over time there was such great demand for more that a new version of the band appeared. And it wasn't long before a new album was recorded and released in 2005. On In Space the band was comprised of Alex Chilton, Jody Stephens, Jon Auer, and Ken Stringfellow. Now that Chilton is no longer with us, Stephens seems to be on an upswing, and there's an upsurge of interest in The Posies (thanks to Omnivore deluxe reissues which are excellent)...the reissue of In Space seems particularly well-timed. There seem to be two basic camps in terms of reaction to In Space. The first camp consists of those who were disappointed because the overall sound seemed to stray so far from the original 1970s sound. The second camp consists of those who realize that times had changed, and that expecting things to sound exactly like they were was/is unrealistic and unfair. We're not in either camp, but we tend to identify more with the latter in terms of overall reaction to these recordings. If you're expecting everything to sound just like the 1970s Big Star you know and love, you probably will be disappointed by this album. But if you're open-minded and allow yourself to just listen and enjoy, you'll find a lot of great music here that has stood up well over time. These four guys had already been out touring, so at this point it only made sense that they would record some new material. This reissue includes all the tracks that were on the original album plus five bonus cuts. While not as riveting as the original Big Star recordings, In Space is a nice solid spin and it's a purely entertaining experience. The best news of late is that Luther Russell and Jody Stephens are now making music together under the name Those Pretty Wrongs...and their latest tracks are totally out-of-sight great. And the same goes for Luther Russell's solo recordings. Strangely satisfying cuts on In Space include "Dony," "Turn My Back on the Sun," "Mine Exclusively," "Aria, Largo," "Hung Up With Summer," and "Makeover."Bonsai Universe - Too Many Ghosts (Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
Bonsai Universe is Woody Aplanalp. Woody is one of those talented folks out there who composes and records music completely on his own terms. Rather than follow trends and imitate others, he instead opts to use music as a vehicle to expand his mind as well as the minds of others. Unlike so many artists whose music easily and instantly falls into one obvious genre, Aplanalp's compositions equally balance elements from progressive, pop, and rock music with one major difference. There are experimental elements thrown into the mix that give the tracks extra depth and intrigue. Too Many Ghosts is a heady and complex experience. And our guess is that this music is probably over the heads of many listeners. Those with an adventurous spirit will find a lot to appreciate here. The songs are listener-friendly and even catchy at times, but the overall feel has more in common with progressive rock bands from the past and present. The arrangements are complex and challenging and yet this fellow somehow manages to avoid having his compositions sound overproduced. Just goes to show that when you know how to use technology to your advantage, it can really work. So often technology is used as a crutch to cover up for the fact that there's no substance present. That is definitely not the case here. These tracks have cool and real substance for sure...but it's amped up to another level by the intelligent use of effects and layering. Fifteen cuts that clock in at over an hour, and they're all great. Our favorite initial cuts include "It's a Shame," "Walnut Grove," "Too Many Ghosts," "Hey Brown Eyes," and "My Little Corner." Rather fantastic sounding stuff, heady and unique. Top pick.
So much crummy
Everywhere.
Crummy folks with
Crummy hair.
Crummy here.
Crummy there.
Crummy, crummy
Everywhere
Make the crummy
Go away.
Damn the crummy
Every day.
Bob Bradshaw - Queen of the West (CD, Fluke, Western flavored pop)
Here's an interesting one...a concept/story album featuring western flavored pop. And the good news is...it's a keeper. Featuring smart guitar-driven melodic pop with a Western flair, Queen of the West is an extremely pleasant spin. This would already be an impressive album, but it's even more so when you consider the fact that it's an independent release. Doesn't matter whether you want to involve yourself with the story here, because each individual track stands up easily on its own. After spinning this one a few times, we began to notice how similar some of the more pop-oriented tracks remind us of mid-career Elvis Costello (around the release of Imperial Bedroom). Bob Bradshaw has a cool knack for coming up with excellent melodies. And the arrangements on this album are always spot on. But it's that deep focused voice that will keep listeners coming back for more. That...and the fact that these tracks have a wonderful warm sound quality that instantly sets them apart from the tidal wave of digitally tweaked albums released in 2019. Housed in a beautifully designed digipak sleeve complete with lyric booklet, this is one slick release that concentrates first and foremost on songs and credible recordings. All of these tracks sound mighty fine indeed, but for us particular standouts include "Queen of the West," "Ruby Black," "The Wearing of the Black," "How You Disappear," and "Take Me to the East."The Brutalists - We Are Not Here To Help (CD, Cleopatra, Underground rock/pop)
The second full-length release from the Los Angeles, California-based band The Brutalists. These guys are out of the gate and running. And they started out with an automatic built-in audience thanks to some prior connections. The band features the talents of Mick Cripps (a founding member of L.A. Guns), Nigel Mogg (a founding member of The London Quireboys), Kent Holmes, Charlie Nice, and Luke Bossendorfer. We love the title of this album, it sums up lots of things about the way people ought to think. We Are Not Here To Help presents eleven smart compositions featuring strong melodies, driving rhythms, cool guitars, and an overall upbeat vibe. These guys are treading on that fine line that separates the underground from the accessible. The music is by no means sell out crap, but it's also a lot more catchy and accessible than most of the underground stuff we hear. Some really great standout tracks on this one. Tunes that instantly caught our attention are "Leave It Out," "If I Just Do Nothing," "You Got Nothin On Me," and "It Was Never Meant To Be So Easy." In addition to the CD version, this one's also being offered as a stream and download, as well as on limited edition 12" vinyl. Cool rockin' stuff. Immediately following the release of the album, these guys were off touring California and the United Kingdom. Our guess is that The Brutalists are going to be...B-I-G.Stephen Clair - Strange Perfume (CD-R, Rock City, Pop)
If you like guitar-driven pop/rock that's direct and to-the-point, you're almost certain to appreciate this man's music. Stephen Clair writes songs that could and can be easily appreciated by a large segment of the listening population. The songs on Strange Perfume have a pure pop kinda sound, but they're also infused with plenty of electric energy. And fortunately for all of us, the guitars are turned up loud in the mix. Clair's songs remind us of classic pop artists from the 1970s and 1980s like The Kinks, The Cars, and Elvis Costello. So if any of these are in your list of favorites, many of these songs may have a cool familiar sound. Stephen's got a really nice unrehearsed sounding voice that comes across very genuine and real. Producer Malcolm Burn did an excellent job on these tracks, giving them a nice warm organic sound that should appeal to folks into the analog world of music. Joining Clair on these tracks are Nate Allen on bass, Daria Grace on bass and backing vocals, Brad Hubbard on baritone saxophone, and Aaron Latos on drums and backing vocals. Plenty of cool grooves here, these tracks should have people up and moving the moment they hear 'em. Smart well-crafted cuts include "Strange Perfume," "Cadillac Jack," "If We Last Long Enough," and "What Got In Your Head."Comet Gain - Fireraisers Forever! (CD, Tapete, Pop/rock)
More refreshingly real modern pop/rock from the cool folks in Comet Gain. This band has been in existence since 1992. But from the nifty refreshing sounds on Fireraisers Forever! you'd swear they just started making music this year. If you're like us and have become bored by too much overdone perfection in the world of recorded music, this band may very well be like a wave of fresh air. The tracks on this album have a wonderfully raw and spontaneous feel that is instantly inviting and genuine. The band is comprised of MJ Taylor, David Christian, Anne Laure Guillain, Rachel Evans, and James Hornsey. The album blasts out of the gates with the playful rockin' sounds of "We're All F*cking Morons"...which perfectly sets the mood for what's to come. These cool guitar-driven tracks are delivered with passion and style. They're instantly smart and catchy, and the lyrics are light years beyond what we normally hear. At a point in time when so many have become jaded and bored with commercial music, bands like Comet Gain are just what the doctor ordered. Creative...different...and ultimately very, very interesting on a variety of levels. The song titles give a good indication of what you can expect here: "The Girl With the Melted Mind and Her Fear of the Open Door," "Society of Inner Nothing," "Your Life On Your Knees," "Mid 8Ts," "Werewolf Jacket," "I Can't Live Here Anymore"...why can't MORE BANDS come up with unique lyrics and song titles like this...??!!! The Tapete label continues to be one of the best places to find the best of the best that's out there in 2019. This album absolutely hits our target dead center. Refreshingly intelligent and entertaining from start to finish. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Domain Extensions (Money has once again ruined something that could have been good.)
When domain names first became available, there were four extensions: .com, .org, .net, and .edu. That was confusing enough, but those of us out there with websites could deal with the slight confusion caused by the four different extensions. Now, many years later, the electronic world is cluttered and littered with tidal waves of totally confusing, unnecessary, and absurd extensions. And the reason why, as we all know...is MONEY and GREED. It doesn't matter that all of these extensions cause confusion and frustration. As usual, the main motivating factor is that it's a way for people to make more and more money by taking advantage of others. Why should multiple businesses and individuals be allowed to use trademarks already being used by others? It's just plain wrong. Some would argue that there aren't enough names to go around and this is why we need more extensions. And our response to that would be a loud and obvious...baloney. There are more than enough names to go around. The problem is that most just want to use familiar names. Once again people have allowed greed to dictate the way things work. Ever wonder what it would be like if we lived in a world where people had morals and integrity? If so, forget it. Because obviously we will never ever know.Ex Norwegian - Something Unreal: The Best of Ex Norwegian (Double CD, Think Like A Key, Underground guitar pop)
We've been Ex Norwegian fans for years now. Driven by the multiple skills and talents of Roger Houdaille, the band is easily one of the most prolific and consistently entertaining underground pop bands ever to emerge from the state of Florida. Those who experience the band's music are usually fans for life. We're pleased as punch to let you know that these folks have now released a double 'best of' CD featuring a whole slew of tracks from the past ten years. But this is actually much more than a mere 'best of' album, as it also features previously unreleased mixes, cover tunes, live recordings, non-LP tracks, and other rarities. We were already aware of the fact that Ex Norwegian has recorded some of the best guitar-driven underground pop on the planet. But hearing this overview makes this fact even more obvious and real. There's a lot to take in here. Spread across two discs are forty-seven tracks of timeless pop featuring wonderful soaring melodies, groovy guitars, and driving rhythms. In addition to being offered online, the album has also been released as a CD and a vinyl LP. The CD packaging is great. The two discs are housed inside a cool tri-fold digipak sleeve and includes a sixteen page booklet. But music is what it's all about. And you'll get more than you ever bargained for with this one. This will serve as the ultimate introduction for those who have yet to experience Ex Norwegian. And because of all the additional tracks, it's also a must have for those who are already fans of the band. So many killer songs here, but a few of our favorites include "Something Unreal," "Original Copy," "Unstoppable," "Not A Mouse," "Tell Me Your Plans," "I Like the Way," "Signed Curtain," "Smashing Time," "I'm a Fighter, Not a Lover," "Funny Zipper," and "Riot of Love." Just like all previous Ex Norwegian releases, this one is highly recommended for anyone into the best of the best in the world of underground pop. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Fastball - The Help Machine (CD, 33 1/3, Pop)
More instantly friendly and infectious modern pop from the cool guys in Fastball. The guys in this band have been making music now for almost twenty-five years. But from the sound of the songs on The Help Machine, you'd never know it. At a point in time when almost all commercial music is unlistenably bad, this band's music almost gives you hope that at some point the general population might wake up and suddenly be able to determine good from bad. That's not likely to happen of course, because most people prefer listening to the crummy dribble that's slopped out to them in big heaping spoonfuls. But for those smart enough to know good from bad, Fastball offers an excellent alternative. These songs have a great deal of commercial appeal, but they're also a far cry from what currently sells in the United States. And that, of course, is a very good thing. The band is the trio of Miles Zuniga, Tony Scalzo, and Joe Shuffield. Sure, there's probably a bit more polish on these tracks than is really necessary. And some of the compositions are layered a bit more than we would probably prefer. But what matters most here are the songs. And this album is chock full of smart hummable songs that, in a perfect world, would be warmly embraced by just about everyone who loves good solid guitar pop. Produced by Steve Berlin and engineered by Jim Vollentine, Machine has a great big thick modern sound. Zuniga, Scalzo, and Shuffield deserve a great deal of credit for being able to make cool credible music after so many years have gone by. If you loved Fastball many years ago, you're almost certain to love this album. If you never heard the band before, this would serve as an excellent introduction. Clever well-crafted cuts include "Friend or Foe," "White Collar," "The Girl You Pretended To Be," and "Never Say Never."The Full Counts - Next Up (CD, Phratry, Underground rock/pop)
The sophomore full-length release from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's The Full Counts. This group is comprised of ex-members of the bands Gumball, Food, and The Cynics. These guys play direct and simple straight-from-the-hip guitar driven pop/rock that is instantly memorable and inspired. Recorded at Electric Eye Recorders in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Next Up will immediately remind many listeners of underground bands from the late 1980s and 1990s when guitar bands ruled the earth. For folks like us who have grown tired of so many overproduced albums in the twenty-first century, this one will be a refreshing blast. Although we haven't seen the band live, our guess is that these tracks sound very much like these four guys playing a live concert. These men don't mess around as they present ten tracks that clock in at just over thirty-five minutes. The rhythms are persistent. The guitars are loud. The vocals aren't tweaked to perfection. In a world full of digital dullness, the guys in The Full Counts have managed to come up with a collection of songs that may remind listeners of why they fell in love with rock music in the first place. The press release that accompanied this CD accurately compared the music to The Smithereens. We couldn't help but notice that there are also some interesting similarities to the more rockin' side of XTC. The band is comprised of Eric Vermillion, Mike Quinlan, Mark Urbano, and Ethan Winograd. Cool rockin' cuts include "She Said," "I Know," "Song #5," and "Oh Whoa Oh." Catchy infectious stuff with guts.The Gerbils - Are You Sleepy (CD, Elephant 6, Underground pop/rock)
This reissue has been released to mark the 20th anniversary of this album's original release. If you like interesting obscure oddities, this one may very well be right up your alley. The Gerbils were a short-lived band in Athens, Georgia that made music in the late 1990s. Though their recorded output and level of success were both limited, interest in the music has continued right on through to the present. The fine folks at Elephant 6 have reissued this one on vinyl this year, but it's also available as a stream and download. The tracks on Are You Sleepy recall a time and place when underground bands sounded like underground bands. Many people think that music in Athens, Georgia peaked in the 1980s but they would be wrong. The 1990s, 2000s, and 2010s have produced even more interesting bands and music. And the area continues to be a thriving place for original underground pop. Are You Sleepy is a truly peculiar and odd album. Hard to say whether the folks in the band were trying to sound strange or whether the music they made just ended up sounding offbeat. Either way, this album has plenty of unusual tracks that range from underground pop to underground rock...occasionally teetering into experimental territory. The original band was comprised of Scott Spillane, John D'Azzo, and Will Westbrook. After this album was recorded drummer Jeremy Barnes joined the band and they released a second and final album (The Battle of Electricity). So...who or what does this music sound like? Difficult to say really, because there aren't any immediate and obvious influences or reference points that come to mind. Great cover art of a tree towering into the sky here. It's doubtful that the music made by The Gerbils will ever sell huge amounts. But that's not the point. The point is to make more fans of the underground aware of these folks' credible contributions to the world of artsy underground pop. Strangely satisfying tracks include "Sunshine Soul," "Crayon Box," "Fluid," "Ted Doesn't Mind," and "Grin."Beverly Glenn-Copeland - Primal Prayer (CD, Org Music, Progressive/world)
This is a very different release that, in many ways, defies categorization. Originally self released in 2004 under the title Phynix, the album received sufficient recognition and attention to inspire the folks at Org Music to make the wise decision to re-release it under the title Primal Prayer. Glenn-Copeland is probably best known for his electronic album Keyboard Fantasies that was released way back in 1986. But although that's what he's best known for, he has continued making music since that time. And he's played with a number of key individuals in addition to writing for the Sesame Street television program. As mentioned initially, this is a very different album that combines sounds and styles from a variety of different genres and sources. At the heart of the music is the voice. Beverly has a really amazing organic voice that can sound operatic, folkish, and poppy...depending on his mood and the style of music he composes. Although there are a few artists lending their talents here, the majority of this album was written, arranged, and programmed by Glenn-Copeland. So it is essentially a solo album with a few exceptions. This one is definitely a heady and artsy experience, so if you're looking for simple humdrum pop music you can easily sing along with...you won't find that here. But those adventurous souls out there wanting substance in their music will find a great deal to appreciate here. These tracks are concrete and thought provoking. And they feature wonderfully acute arrangements. Beverly is obviously more concerned with making music that communicates rather than making music that sells. Ten intriguing cuts including "La Vita," "Heaven In Your Heart," "Primal Prayer," and "A Song and Many Moons."Golden Ghost - The Big Sleep Future (CD-R, EPIFO Music, Underground progressive folk/pop)
Sparse. Intricate. Restrained. Reflective. Smart. And very different. Golden Ghost is Laura Goetz. She's spent the past seven years in hiatus but has now thankfully returned to the world of making music. The Big Sleep Future is her fifth full-length album and it's certain to be immediately embraced by her fans...as well as anyone else who appreciates super-intelligent-but-decidedly-uncommercial underground progressive folk/pop. You won't hear any potential hits here. There are no happy beats to dance to. These tracks are peculiar and strangely personal. Goetz is one of those cool musicians out there who allows music to take her wherever it may, regardless of whether the music sells or not. With this release, she succeeds admirably on all levels. These songs are listener friendly, but not in traditional ways. The overall sound is exceedingly soft and subdued. And the instruments are used more like paint, creating an audio canvass that is unique in and of itself. Laura has a particularly beautiful voice. If she chose to go the commercial route, she could probably be hugely successful in no time. But thankfully for those of us who appreciate this kind of stuff, she has instead opted for artistic integrity over irritatingly dull issues like sales and popularity. By choosing this path, she guarantees herself respect and admiration for decades to come from people whose opinions matter. As some of us already know all too well, big-time popular music in 2019 equals unlistenable crap. Hard to compare this album to anyone else because it is so genuinely personal. So much care and attention was obviously spent crafting these delicate tracks. There's a lot to take in here. Ten tracks that clock in at over sixty seven minutes. Wonderfully rewarding cuts include "Two Universes," "Immortal," "Killer Whale's Dream," "Dying to the World Again," "No Roses," and "Little Rabbit No. 3." The song titles are as unique as the songs themselves. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Grifters & Shills - Pretty Little Secrets (CD, 44 Stone Productions, Pop/rock)
Grifters & Shills is the husband-and-wife duo of John Stoll and Rebecca Stoll. Instead of adopting a familiar genre for their music, these two came up with their own unique description. They describe their music as 'high lonesome heavy metal.' Their music is apparently catching on in a big way in their home state of Texas. John and Rebecca met in 2008 when, at the time, they were both playing in a jam band. It wasn't long before they found that they had music and a lot more in common. Both are multi-instrumentalists and both write the songs. Pretty Little Secrets provides a nice focused snapshot of where the couple are in 2019. The album features instantly cool and friendly songs with a heavy emphasis on rhythms and vocal melodies. When we saw the cover art on this one, we had an idea it would be good. John Streeter's neat covert art features a magician surrounded by a rabbit, a skeleton, a car, a ghost, and a war helmet. In addition to the cool digipak sleeve, this nifty package also includes a booklet with lyrics to all the songs. And you'll want to read along, because the Stolls write songs that easy to sing along with. There are plenty of nice warm vibes running through these tunes. And we'd be willing to guess that the two manage to conjure up these same inviting vibes when they're playing live. You can instantly tell from these recordings that these two truly enjoy making music together. And over the course of recording several albums, they've gotten very very good at it. This album sounds better than most albums currently being released by major music labels. The vocals are exceptionally good. When John and Rebecca get going, you'll find it almost impossible to stay still. Nice groovy modern pop/rock cuts include "Running Out," "Keepin' Score," "Taxidermy Town," "Last Leaf Has Fallen," and "Left Right Left."Hawkestrel - The Future Is Us (CD, Purple Pyramid / Cleopatra, Underground rock)
Hawkestrel is a new project created by bass player Alan Davey that includes members of the iconic underground space rock band Hawkwind. Joining Davey in this endeavor are Nik Turner, Lemmy Kilmister, Ginger Baker, Simon House, Huw Lloyd-Langton, Paul Rudolph, Mick Slattery, and Bridget Wishart. Fans of early Hawkwind recordings are bound to get a major jolt out of this one. The Future Is Us is driven by the basic sounds and ideas presented on the first few Hawkwind albums, but then catapults them into the present in terms of sound quality and electronics. It's great that after so many years the musicians involved in this project continue to be driven more by artistic integrity and creativity than the almighty dollar and/or pound. These tracks feature that familiar Hawkwind drone and those spaced out noodly electronics that we all know and love. There's a lot to grasp onto here, as this album clocks in at well over an hour. In addition to being offered as a stream, download, and CD this release is also being offered as a double album on blue vinyl. Hawkwind fans rejoice, the space ritual continues well into the twenty-first century. Killer psychedelic tracks include "Do What Ya Need To Do," "The Future Is Us," "Goodbye Death Valley," and "Hawkestrel." Recommended. Top pick.
Todd Herfindal - Two Track Mind (CD, Single Recordings, Pop)
Two Track Mind is an excellent example of what hugely popular pop music ought to sound like in 2019. Unfortunately, the average music fan prefers the mindless generic processed cheese continually spewed out by shallow folks who are far more concerned with money and fame than talent and integrity. And this has led to the current sorry state of commercial music where almost all of the big superstars are completely boring, bland, and mindless. But enough about that issue (snore), let's get to what matters here. Todd Herfindal is back with another mind boggling collection of super smart heady guitar pop that's bound to push your consciousness straight up into the clouds and beyond. We went totally ape over this guy's music when we first heard him a few years back. Unlike some folks who lose their initial spark over time, the opposite is happening with this man. The magical magnetic qualities in his music just keep getting brighter and more focused. Two Track Mind is easily one of the best pop albums released in 2019. There's just no question about it. All of Herfindal's talents combine to make this one an obvious top pick. He's a top notch songwriter, musician, producer, engineer, and vocalist. And this time around he's really outdone himself in every category. These songs have cool soaring qualities that are instantly friendly and absorbing. To quote from his own website, Todd says this album "...explores two emotional tracks: dark verses light...how darker emotions collide with pure joy." That's a good way of summing things up here. Average artists merely write lyrics and melodies. The truly exceptional artists are the ones who can effectively communicate with their listeners on a higher level. And on this album, Herfindal does just that. These tracks are instantly catchy and hummable. They also have a great deal of substance and excitement threaded into them. If we could change any one thing about this album...we wouldn't change anything. This guy has totally hit the target dead center. He may not be a household name...yet. But his devoted fans already know what others will realize as years pass by. It's only a matter of time before this guy's career really busts loose. Killer cuts include "Sweet and Low (Get That)," "Fate," "Dead End Road," "Bright White Light," and "Bound for the Sun." Highly recommended.
Holy Beach - All That Matters Is This Matter (Vinyl LP, Ursa Minor, Underground rock)
Lately some of the more interesting hard rock bands in the United States seem to be sprouting up in our old stomping grounds (Atlanta, Georgia). Holy Beach is one loud roaring rock band with thick distorted guitars and cool pummeling rhythms. All That Matters Is This Matter is an impressive debut on a multitude of different levels. But first and foremost are the songs, which are what grabbed our attention most about this one. Holy Beach is comprised of John Lally (vocals), Jon Hilton (guitar), Mike Gibbs (guitar), Jason Petty (guitar), Kevin Faivre (bass), and Jordan Hershaft (drums). When we first heard this album what caught our attention sound-wise were the guitars. What a mesmerizing thick wall of sound. It was only later that we noticed that the band features not one or two...but three guitarists (!). At a point in time when the energy and creativity of the 1990s seems to be making a comeback (finally), these guys' music should be warmly welcomed all around the globe. This album completely lacks the phony perfect digital gloss that ruins so many modern albums. This is raw sounding stuff delivered with pure energized excitement. And we can almost guarantee that folks into the world of shitty commercial music in 2019 will hate it. But that will, of course, be their loss. Because in a world currently littered with so many soundalike artists, it's those taking a different and unusual approach that really win the game these days. Eight gripping tracks here including "Ships Off the Coast," "Fade Away," "Confident Prick," "The New Colossus," and "Skull Faced On a Horse." Hard rocking stuff with guts and integrity. Recommended. Top pick.
Hot Club of Cowtown - Wild Kingdom (CD, Gold Strike, Swing/pop)
This one flowed into our world at an interesting point, mainly because we were just recently introduced to the music of Bob Wills (we're slow...but better late than never). Wills' swing/pop from the past caught our attention because of the simple feelgood nature of the songs, along with all those peculiar 'whoos' and 'yee-haws' constantly heard in the background. Although the folks in this band have been at it for years now, this is the first time we've heard their music. The tracks on Wild Kingdom have the same kind of simple feelgood sound that made Wills and company such a favorite among listeners long ago. At a point in time when technology and complexity rules, these songs should be ultimately refreshing to a large segment of the listening community. Folks who've noticed that most modern commercial songs sounds like carbon copies will appreciate the sincere integrity of this group and their approach. The band is comprised of Elana James on violin and vocals, Whit Smith on guitar and vocals, and Jake Erwin on bass and backing vocals (along with special guests Damien Llanes, Joe Kerr, and Oliver Rajamani). Listening to these tracks you can just see audience members tapping their feet to the music. Kingdom presents eleven original compositions and three covers of traditional favorites. In addition to Wills, the folks in this trio also cite influences like Django Reinhardt, Stephane Grappelli, Bing Crosby, and Cindy Walker...so you know they're got excellent taste. These musicians have done an excellent job of presenting sounds and styles from the past in a modern context. Cool catchy cuts include "My Candy," "Three Little Words," "High Upon the Mountain," and "Easy Money." Totally genuine and real.In Deed - Everest (Extended CD version) (CD, Big Stir, Pop)
The second full-length release from the Swedish pop band In Deed. The band self-released this album on vinyl in their own country. And now, thanks to the fine folks at California's always-taste-conscious Big Stir label, the album has been released on CD. The big news for fans is that it includes three brand new bonus tracks that were not on the original album. If you love the sound of all those wonderfully overlooked underground pop bands from the 1990s, this one is very likely to be instantly appealing to you. The folks in this band write and record simple, straightforward pop that features super strong melodies, cool arrangements, and an overall groovy vibe. The band is comprised of Johan Helander (guitar, keyboard), Marcus Segersvard (drums), Richard Ohrn (guitar), Linda Karlsberg (lead vocals), and Jens Silakka (bass guitar). These folks got their start way back in 2001 when they released their well-received At 4000 Meters album. After many years they decided to treat their fans by getting back on the wagon and thus Everest was born. These folks write and record unapologetically upbeat infectious pop music. While these tracks may remind listeners of classic pop bands from the past, the overall sound is decidedly modern and current. The rhythms are direct and danceable. The guitar riffs are outta this world. And the vocals are the icing on the cake. We've always had a particular fondness for Swedish pop. Hearing this band validates why this is so. Cool catchy cuts include "Another Start," "What Once Was," "Song to You," and "15 Minor Hours." Some of these tracks occasionally remind us of Fuzzy (one of our favorite underground pop bands from the 1990s who never received the recognition they deserved). This one's a HIT.The Injured Parties - Product Placement (CD, Zenith Beast, Underground rock/pop)
Smart punchy power pop with a sense of humor. We're always whining about the fact that so many bands and artists in the twenty-first century push the guitars way down in the mix. As such, we're always on a mission to find music that features loud guitars. Well, we sure found it here. The songs on the humorously-titled Product Placement feature guitars turned all the way up. The guys in The Injured Parties have been playing in and around the Chicago area since 2005. That said, this is only the band's second full-length release...so it's been quite a wait for fans of the band. The Injured Parties is comprised of Larry O. Dean (guitar, piano, vocals), Jimmy De Lauriea (bass, vocals), and Mike Ebersohl (drums, vocals). The band has a sound that is something like They Might Be Giants except much more loud and aggressive. There are so many bands of late that conjure up the sound of the 1990s. These guys manage to give off the same overall vibe (plenty of volume and creativity), but they're not a retro band by any stretch. Lyrics are an integral part of the equation here, as these songs are chock full of keen observations about the world. And they present a unique way of looking at things. We've never seen these guys play live. But from the sounds we're hearing on this disc we'd be willing to bet they put on one helluva show. Cool driving rhythms. Guitars that jump out of the mix and slam you in the face. Casual Lou Reed-esque vocals. It all adds up to one groovy little band that makes instantly infectious music with a difference. Cool rockin' cuts include "Got a Tattoo," "Should've," "The Advantage Was Mine," "Bangkok," and "I Let Myself Go." A fun upbeat experience from start to finish.International Pop Overthrow - Vol. 22 (Triple CD, Omnivore Recordings, Various artists/rock/pop)
Wow. This is an incredible collection of modern underground pop classics. One of the main reasons we continue writing about music is because it's a vehicle for us to discover the coolest of the cool in the world of underground music. This collection is so tasty that...it makes us wonder if we ought to just throw in the towel and let International Pop Overthrow do the work for us (!). President/CEO David Bash is one of the most connected people on the planet in the world of underground guitar pop. Over the years his connections have grown and grown to the point that he is now one of the top experts in his field. But back to the matter at hand. Vol. 22 truly is a grand collection that may just restore your faith in the power of music. There's a lot to sink your teeth into here. Spread across these three compact discs are a whopping sixty-nine tracks. Sit back and relax while you're turned onto some of the best underground artists and bands on the planet. In all honesty each and every cut is a hit so we'll just list some of the artists so you'll have an idea of who's on this one. Included on Vol. 22 are tracks by The Bishop's Caredevil Stunt Club, Nick Frater, Pikal, Bird Streets, The Tearaways, Suite 100, The Lilacs, Blake Jones & the Trike Shop, The Top Boost, Dave Rave, Emperor Penguin, Ulysses, The Expected, The Details, and Butch Young...and that's just the tip of the iceberg. Folks into underground stuff are most likely already aware of the fact that this organization also puts on a festival that attracts musicians and fans from all over the world. If you're looking for one of the best sources on the planet to discover what's great out there that you've never heard of, pay attention to the artists supported by International Pop Overthrow. Vol. 22 is a totally kickass collection of oughta-be hits.Dan Israel - Social Media Anxiety Disorder (Independently released CD, Pop)
If you love the sound of classic guitar-driven pop artists from the 1980s, you're almost certain to dig the sounds you'll hear on the humorously-titled Social Media Anxiety Disorder. Minnesota-based singer/songwriter Dan Israel has hit the target with this one. This album is chock full of smart melodic pop that is memorable, intelligent, and uplifting. If you loved Elvis Costello's stuff from the 1980s, Israel is almost certain to float your boat. The cover art is hilarious. The album art looks very much like one of those awful K-tel records that you never ever wanted to buy because they were so poorly created and manufactured. Hopefully in this instance the artwork will have the exact opposite effect. Slamming out of the gates with "Be My Girl," the track serves as the perfect starting point for a string of twelve perfectly executed songs. Engineered by Jon Herchert and Steve Price, these tracks have a nice thick warm sound that should appeal to folks who appreciate music created on analog equipment. Expert artists lending their talents here are Peter Anderson, David J. Russ, Jeremy Yivisaker, Steve Brantseg, John Fields, Janey Winterbauer, Tonia Hughes Kendrick, Jon Duncan, Paul Odegaard, and Randy Casey. So many strong songs here that it's difficult to pick favorites, but some that initially stand out are "Be My Girl," "125" (our favorite), "Tired," and "Here For Today." This music really makes you want to move.Jason James - Seems Like Tears Ago (CD, Melodyville, Country)
One of the reasons so many country music fans prefer artists from the 1950s and 1960s is because at that point in time the music was much simpler. And the artists themselves seemed to be much more genuine than your average processed cheese country superstar that's churned out of Nashville every month in the twenty-first century. Sad but true, most country music is now created mainly for cash. And technology has, unfortunately, removed much of the sincere human spirit that was once such an integral part of the music. But fear not, dear readers. Charging out of the gates to prove all is not lost is up-and-coming singer/songwriter Jason James. Looking and sounding very much like artists from decades past, this young fellow effectively captures a sound and energy that will instantly appeal to a wide cross section of listeners. These songs sound so authentic that--if it weren't for the super slick sound quality--you'd swear these songs were recorded in the late 1950s or early 1960s. So much attention to detail here. And the idea was apparently to keep this as true to form as possible in every respect. Even Jason's voice recaptures the golden era of country. If you like or love artists like Hank Williams, George Jones, and Merle Haggard, you're almost certain to get a major jolt out of Seems Like Tears Ago. Just as was the case when K.D. Lang released her highly-influential Ingenue years ago, this album is bound to immediately capture the attention and admiration of a large cross section of music fans. James is one helluva crooner, and he really makes you believe the words he's singing. The photograph of the man on the back cover standing behind stacks of old vinyl records says it all. This talented young fellow has obviously been inspired and heavily influenced by folks his parents...or even his grandparents...probably listened to. You're going to be seeing and hearing a lot about Jason James in the coming months and years. He's squarely on the right path with this one. Listeners respond to folks who are genuinely inspired and real. This man is both. We're totally blown away by this album. It's a true modern classic. Killer tracks include "Seems Like Tears Ago," "I Miss You After All," "Achin' Takin' Place," "Coldest Day of the Year," and "Ole Used To Be." There are threads of sadness in these songs that push them to an even higher level. You need to hear this album. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Jimbo Pap - It Can Always Get Worse (CD, Fiesta Red, Soft progressive folky pop)
Smooth melodic mid-tempo soft pop with threads of folk and country weaved into the fabric. The strangely-titled Jimbo Pap is the band comprised of Kip Boardman, Jim Bowers, Bo Brannen, Cal Campbell, Pap Shirock, and Kaitlin Wolfberg (along with a whole slew of other artists lending their talents). You'd think with so many folks involved the songs on It Can Always Get Worse would sound thick and cluttered. But instead, the exact opposite is true. There are plenty of wide open spaces in these tracks which allow listeners to focus on the lyrics and vocal melodies. The songs are relaxed and laidback overall, and the arrangements are surprisingly minimalistic and sparse. Feelgood vibes are in abundance here, which gives us the impression that the folks involved in this project were truly having a good inspired time during the recording process. Although these cuts have the potential to appeal to a wide array of listeners, the music is a far cry from the world of commercial music in 2019. Worse is, in so many ways, so much better than that. If you like the sound of early 1960s country pop and folky songwriters from the 1970s, you are likely to immediately warm up to this one. Cool reflective tracks include "Submission (Nice Pants)," "Nothing's Quite the Same," "Yard Sale," and "Someone's Gonna Love Me Again." This review is of the promotional-only CD, but this release is being offered as a stream and download as well as on vinyl.Lasers Lasers Birmingham - Warning (Independently released CD, Country/pop)
Although he writes and records country pop, Los Angeles, California-based recording artist Alex Owen has chosen to release music under the wonderfully creative moniker Lasers Lasers Birmingham. This is bound to confuse the masses, so we just love it. If you hate the current sound of commercial processed junk spewing out of Nashville these days, you may very well appreciate the sincere and genuine sound of Mr. Owen. Recorded using only the basic ingredients, Warning is a nice smooth spin. And it's chock full of genuine observations about the world we live in. All eleven songs are originals, and they're all keepers. This guy has a voice that is a perfect match for the songs that he writes. In a world full of phonies and wannabes, Alex stands out as an original individual who isn't trying to copy or be anyone but himself. If you dig the sound of classic singer/songwriters from decades past, there's a good chance you'll find yourself instantly drawn to these songs. The more we spin Warning the better it sounds. Cool modern classics include "Warning," "After Party After Life," "Don't Go Trying To Fix Me," and "What a Shame."
Lovely world is
Ugly world.
Lunt - Phantom Solids (CD, We Are Unique, Progressive rock/pop)
Unusual music that is difficult to describe but somehow...strangely provocative and very appealing. Treading into several genres at once, Phantom Solids is not the sort of album we normally hear in 2019. Most artists and bands make music that fits nicely within boundaries. And that's understandable, because when the majority of people feel challenged and confused...they usually try to get away fast. This review is intended for listeners who enjoy expanding their minds and their galaxies. This album presents music that incorporates elements from noise/sound experimentation, drone, progressive, pop, rock, and more. Interestingly, they're all incorporated in such a way that the overall sound somehow makes sense. Lunt is the band/project created by Gilles Deles. This man obviously has no interest in recording music that will produce hits. Although the overall sound is distinctly different from just about everyone else we've heard, we would recommend this album to folks who appreciate other unusual artists like The Swans, early Gang of Four, Donovan, and even the The Television Personalities at times. You may be wondering how any artist can create music that careens into such wildly different universes. If so, you'll just have to hear this album to get what it's all about. There are some truly adventurous instrumental sections. But the lyrics and vocal melodies are even more interesting. We've heard lots of bands in the United States going the progressive rock route lately, but we've never heard anyone in our own country who sounds like this. Deles writes compositions that are exceedingly intelligent. But they're also instantly memorable and satisfying. There's a great deal of substance layered into this music that makes it more and more interesting with every repeated spin. It's dark. It's light. It's familiar. It's unfamiliar. It's nervous. It's relaxing. Take the plunge and check out Lunt. His music will take you to places you've not been before. Mind bending tracks include "It Started With a Climax," "Your Ghosts," "In the Midst of My Days," "Emergency for the Wise," and "Trace in the East." Highly recommended. Top pick.
Magnapop - The Circle is Round (Vinyl LP, Happy Happy Birthday To Me, Rock/pop)
The sixth full-length release from Atlanta, Georgia's power pop band Magnapop. The Circle is Round is the first new album from the band since they released Chase Park in 2009. Years may have passed, but these folks still have the same magnetic energized sound that attracted fans when they began. The current lineup of the band is Linda Hopper (vocal), Ruthie Morris (guitar, vocal), Shannon Mulvaney (bass, vocal), David McNair (drums), and Bruce King (keyboards). Plus producer Ed Burdell added some additional guitars on these tracks. The band has now found an appropriate home on the Athens, Georgia-based label Happy Happy Birthday To Me...which seems totally appropriate for both parties. When you consider the fact that the sound and energy of the 1990s seems to be making a comeback of late, the release of this album seems well-timed. If you're a fan of all the cool underground buzzsaw pop bands that seemed to sprout up everywhere in the nineties, you are likely to instantly fall in love with the songs on this record. These folks still have the spark that made their music special. The songs feature thick fuzzy guitars and driving rhythms. And Hopper's voice has never sounded better. In addition to the vinyl release, the album is also being offered as a CD, a download, and stream. Simple. Catchy. Solid. And memorable from start to finish. Cool rockin' cuts include "Dog on the Door," "Super Size Me," "Rain Rain," "Rip the Wreck," and "Pretty Awful (demo)."Miss Mop's Potato Crud - Thumbsuckers and Bedwetters For Change (Independently released CD-R, Underground pop)
Those who grasp politically-motivated music will find a lot to depreciate here. Miss Mop's Potato Crud is a group of thirty or ninety-five people who all have one thing in common. They have twelve things in common. And there is one thing they all have in common. Are you a thumbsucker? Or a bedwetter? If you are or even if you are not, you will want to check this one out. This independently-released album is a real thing that really does exist. It is not a fictional dumb album created by some underground nobodies in an attempt to be clever and fill space because they're in a burned out mood. It's anything but that. It is a real thing that you can hold in your hands. You can also play the music and hear it. When you hear the music you will know what you are listening to. You will be listening to Thumbsuckers and Bedwetters For Change. Oh what an experience this is. Turn it up loud. Turn it down low. Listen to the lyrics. Ignore the lyrics. Few will be able to forget hearing the band present songs that say things like "We've always been spoiled brats but now we're really rotten spoiled brats who everyone hates because we deserve to be hated. And now we're thumbsuckers and bedwetters who can change the world without ever really changing anything." This is intelligent. But it's also not that great. How many wonderful tracks can you include on one album? Over six thousand if they're all under three seconds long. Each of these songs is only two seconds long. But they're catchy. And they're tiny. They're tiny and catchy and short. It should be noted here that Miss Mop is a potato box with grains of battle packed inside her retaining porch jabber. Get your hands on this album before your hands go away. Distant and oblique cuts include "Gravy for Max and Rollo," "Got to Change the Sheets Again," "Sucked My Thumbs Clean Off," and "There's a Goddamn Reason for Everything, Betty...Even if There's Really Not."Mondello - Hello, All You Happy People (Independently released CD-R, Underground pop)
Immediately warm and inviting underground guitar pop. Mondello is the band created by Little Rock, Arkansas-based songwriter/musician John Moran. And we're pleased to report that the appropriately-titled Hello, All You Happy People is a resilient and direct hole-in-one. Moran's music reminds us very much of home recorded projects from the 1980s and 1990s...when so many folks finally had access to affordable technology, but before they began overdoing it and overproducing everything (a disappointing trend which is, unfortunately, oh-so-common in the 2010s). This album presents fourteen smart melodic tracks that have an overall upbeat positive vibe. We don't know this for a fact, but we're guessing the band name comes from Beaver Cleaver's strange little outcast friend Larry Mondello, one of our favorite television characters of all time (from the show Leave It To Beaver). But back to the music at hand. The songs on this album are presented simply, using only the most basic instruments. John did a great job here of giving his tracks just enough polish to sound great, without ever over-tweaking and over-layering them. But it's songs that matter most, and songs are what make Hello such a positive and ultimately pleasing spin. While listening to this album, we're reminded of a whole host of legendary bands including The Fastbacks, Fountains of Wayne, Milk 'n' Cookies, The Bottlecap Kids, The Young Fresh Fellows, and more. What many people don't realize is that quality underground pop isn't dead in the United States. It's just buried way way deep in the undercurrents, as folks in the mainstream media are apparently only interested in exposing people to mindless shallow trash artists. Oops, there's that ever-present sarcasm, rearing its ugly head again. The important thing to remember here is that Mondello is a totally cool and refreshing little band creating music the way it ought to sound. All of these tracks are keepers, but our initial favorites include "Sherilyn," "They Say They Don't Believe It," "The Girl With Half a Mind," "Don't Say Anything Bad About My Baby," and "Do You Believe in Love?" Highly recommended. Top pick.
The Muffs - No Holiday (CD, Omnivore Recordings, Rock/pop)
We are huge fans of The Muffs. We can think of few bands who have maintained their integrity and consistently put out good music for such a long period of time. Unlike so many bands and artists who lose their spark as years go by, the folks in this band still sound inspired, energetic, and totally relevant. The band continues to be the trio comprised of Kim Shattuck (vocals, guitars), Ronnie Barnett (bass, backing vocals), and Roy McDonald (drums, percussion, talking). The folks at Omnivore Recordings recently treated the world to deluxe reissues of the first three Muffs albums (all highly recommended), so it only seems appropriate that the label is now releasing the band's brand new album. Fans had to wait about ten years for the warmly embraced Whoop Dee Doo album. Possibly/probably due to the warm reception that one received, the band recorded a bunch of tracks Kim wrote between 1991 and 2017 that--for one reason or another--failed to make it onto previous albums. The band slams out of the gates with the brilliant thirty-eight second "That's For Me." The track is a perfect example of everything that we love about this band. Fast, smart, gripping no-frills pop that's presented using only the basics. Fortunately for fans of the band, this album is presented simply and avoids the all-too-common mistake made by so many modern bands of overproducing and overlayering everything to death. Other cool stripped down tracks include "No Holiday," "Pollyanna," "Sick of This Old World," "To That Funny Place," "On My Own," "The Kids Have Gone Away," and "Sky." No Holiday presents a total of eighteen tracks that clock in at just under forty-five minutes. In addition to the CD version, the album is also being offered as a stream and download as well as a double vinyl LP (the fourth side is etched). Once again, the folks in The Muffs deliver the goods with passion and style. No Holiday ranks right up there with the best Muffs albums. We're hoping that the next album comes way sooner rather than later because our guess is that this band's best music is still yet to come. Wonderfully rewarding and refreshing in each and every way. Highly recommended. Top pick.
[Brief update: Right after this review was published, we were shocked and psychologically shattered to hear that Kim Shattuck had passed away in her sleep. Her many fans around the world will never forget her credible and totally fantastic contributions to the world of music. Kim was one of the most talented and unique individuals on our planet.]Particle Kid - Window Rock (CD, OAR / Org Music, Underground pop)
The third full-length release from Particle Kid. This band is the project created by Micah Nelson. This talented fellow began making do-it-yourself recordings in his bedroom but has now progressed far beyond that. Window Rock is a cool snapshot of what smart progressive pop ought to sound like in 2019. Rather than going the obvious route writing and recording commercial pop, Nelson opts instead to create artsy tracks that are anything but predictable and obvious. But, strangely enough, they're also not difficult and confusing. Micah has the ability to write songs that are memorable and melodic without going the boring route of writing for the masses. Nelson was originally in the band Insects vs. Robots. Although he's now mainly a solo artist, his former bandmates Tony Peluso and Jeff Smith join him on these tracks. Particle Kid is picking up steam fast. The artist/band has already opened up for The Flaming Lips and The Claypool Lennon Delirium. The moody intricate tracks on this album may remind many listeners of some of their favorite artists from the 1990s (a creative peak in the world of music). Over forty-seven minutes of music here. Our favorite tracks include "Question Song," "Backwards," "Straight Line," "Magic Mirror," and "Still Going." By offering smart sounds driven by the pure desire to create, this fellow is managing to tread into that intriguing area where music has the potential to be accessible to a wide array of music fans of all ages. Interesting lyrics. And the vocals have a cool slightly unrehearsed sound that is particularly appealing. Well done.Alice Peacock - Minnesota (Independently released CD, Soft pop)
It's been quite some time since we've heard any new music from Alice Peacock and there's a reason for that. After releasing her 2009 album Love Remains she moved to another city and had three kids. So that's what's been taking up much of her time for the past decade. The good news for everyone is that she's back...and sounding just as good or better than ever. After spinning this album a few times, our guess is that the second phase of Peacock's career will be her most successful. If you love smooth melodic mid-tempo soft pop that's well produced and genuine, you will most likely go apeshit over Minnesota. Alice gives her backup musicians credit where credit is due and says they helped her realize her vision. Despite the title of the album, these songs were recorded in Nashville, Tennessee. Playing with Peacock on this album are the Red Dirt Boys (the backup band for Emmylou Harris): Phil Madeira, Will Kimbrough, Chris Donahue, and Bryan Owings. Some of Nashville's finest players to be certain. The basic tracks were recorded in just four days. But our guess is that it took a good amount of time applying the final polish to these tracks because they sound so damn good. You won't hear any of those annoying digital processing sounds here. These songs were recorded using traditional instruments and they have a wonderfully warm organic sound. But it's the songs themselves, as well as Peacock's super resonant voice, that make this one so genuinely entertaining. The good news for Peacock's fans is that she's also out playing live again. You can bet your booties you'll be seeing and hearing a lot about this album out there in the real world. Nice smooth cuts include "Love Goes With You," "Dry Spell," "Didn't Have to be So Good," "Your Own Backyard," and "Minnesota." Top pick.
Pity the self-centered.
Pity the lost.
Pity the unaware.
Pity those driven to succeed.Pity the ugly.
Pity the weak.
Pity the socially retarded.Pity the men.
Pity the women.
Pity the children
Who have not yet been born.Pity, pity, pity, pity,
Pity.
The Quebe Sisters - The Quebe Sisters (Independently released CD, Pop)
Over the past few years, we've become increasingly fascinated with simple country swing artists from the 1930s and 1940s. There's something about the music that is genuinely appealing. It's probably because people seemed to be so much more sincere and genuine then...and far less sarcastic and bitter than they are in the twenty-first century. So it seems particularly interesting that this month we received not one but two albums by artists who are opting to create music that recalls that specific place and time when music was simpler and not dominated by technology. The Quebe Sisters are doing it right. These three beautiful young ladies are playing a style of music that can be appreciated by people of all ages. Sure, some folks might think this kind of music is square in 2019. But those folks would be missing the point entirely, because we get the impression that these three musicians aren't interested in trying to impress the ultra snobby hipsters out there anyway. The band is actually comprised of five people: Grace Quebe, Sophia Quebe, and Hulda Quebe (all sisters), along with Simon Stipp (guitars) and Daniel Parr (upright bass). This self-titled release is the fourth full-length album from these talented folks. It features well-chosen cover tunes as well as some originals. What impresses us most here is the simplicity of the music. These songs are presented using only the essential ingredients necessary to get the point across. And this works perfectly for these recordings, because it allows the listener to focus on the incredible heart-melting harmonies. This is classic stuff, recorded the way it ought to sound. Beautifully executed tracks include "Always Seem to Get Things Wrong," "My Love, My Life, My Friend," "Load at 7 (Leave at 8)," "Lonesome Road," and "Twilight on the Trail." Really nice smooth stuff that'll sound great decades from now. YES.Rat Fancy - Stay Cool (Vinyl LP, Happy Happy Birthday To Me, Rock/pop)
Two of our top favorite buzzsaw/power pop bands from the 1990s are Fuzzy and The Fastbacks. On the very first spin the tracks on Say Cool reminded us very much of both. This Los Angeles, California-based quartet is doing everything right. They play highly energized super catchy pop/rock with an emphasis on simplicity and energy. If you loved bands and artists from the 1990s, there's a very good chance you'll go apeshit over Rat Fancy. What appeals to us about so many nineties bands is the fact that there was such a prevalent 'who cares' attitude about so many things. So different from the current climate where everyone seems to wear their hearts on their sleeves, spout politics, or try to make critically serious personal statements about the world and their own lives. In the end, so much of it is just irrelevant when the main point ought to be to have fun and entertain others. Isn't that the whole point of this whole music thing? OK, sure...a solid credible case could be made that music can be all kinds of other things as well. All things to all people and all that garbage, blah, blah, blah. So what we're really talking about here is what we think. And in our little universe, that's all that matters (of course). So back to the main topic. Rat Fancy is the quartet comprised of Diana Barraza, Gregory Johnson, Matt Sturgis, and Dan Fernandez. We should make it clear here that this is not a retro band. These folks just happen to be making very current and relevant modern buzzsaw pop that recalls some of the best bands from the 1990s. For those who just want to turn the volume up and forget about the world and everything going on, this album should do the trick. These insanely catchy tracks immediately capture your attention and keep you entertained. There's not a bad cut on this album...they're all great. Wonderfully effervescent songs include "Stay Cool," "Making Trouble," "Must Be Nice," "Beyond Belief," "Finely Knitted," and "Ride or Die." Totally fun and upbeat from start to finish. Recommended. Top pick.
Smaller Hearts - Honestly (Independently released CD-R, Underground minimalist electronic pop)
The sophomore album from Nova Scotia's Smaller Hearts. These folks made quite an impression on a lot of folks with their debut. Their music stands out from the crowd because of its simplicity. Fans of analog keyboards and synthesizers will appreciate this music most. By keeping things simple and direct, this duo manages to make music that's easy to listen to and appreciate. If there's any one artist we could compare Honestly to, that artist would probably be Joy Electric. This is a short album that clocks in at under thirty minutes. But in that brief amount of time these two clever artists manage to present eleven intelligent and intriguing tracks. What impresses us most about this band's music is that fact that you can spin it over and over again. You can bet that the main motivation here is to make music that first and foremost satisfies those who created it. The fact that others can (and will) enjoy it is just icing on the cake. If you loved the debut, you'll love this one. If you missed out on the first album, Honestly would serve as the perfect introduction. Smooth pensive cuts include "Perennials," "Cloud Cover," "Low Orbit," "The Curve," and "Felt Time."The Successful Failures - Saratoga (CD, FDR label, Pop/rock)
Although big time financial success may have eluded them (at least for the time being), nothing seems to stop the guys in the New Jersey-based band The Successful Failures from forging full steam ahead. These fellows do things on their own terms...writing and playing the kind of music they want to play and self-releasing it on their own independent FDR label. Saratoga is the band's seventh full-length release and it should please longtime fans as well as those who are only now discovering their music. Recorded at Retromedia Studios and produced by Adam Vaccarelli, these tracks capture the sound and energy of a band playing live. So many modern studio recordings sound exactly like studio recordings...incorporating way too many effects and far too many layers. This often results in a tidal wave of albums that all sound identical in many ways. Saratoga is decidedly different because while listening to this you'll get the feeling that you're actually hearing four guys playing live. Songs are what it's all about, of course. And once again these guys deliver track after track of upbeat hummable music that's a purely positive and upbeat experience. The band continues to be a favorite among critics and fans of the underground and this album is a good example of why this is so. Solid rockin' cuts include "Because We're Ghosts," "The Ocean & The Stars," "Ruby Ruby," and "Everywhere She Goes It's Raining." Smart, memorable tracks created out of keen dedication and pure inspiration.The Tea Set - Back In Time For Tea (CD, Cleopatra, Underground rock/pop)
Here's an interesting obscure gem being distributed throughout the world by the fine folks at Cleopatra. The Tea Set was an up-and-coming obscure band in Great Britain that was formed in 1978. The band got together again for the first time in 2018 to record a single and collect the tracks that became this compilation. Back In Time For Tea is pure living proof that these guys could've been big (and may still be if the reformed group has its way). The original band was comprised of ex members of the band The Bears (Carly & Ron West) who joined forces with Mark Wilkins and Nic Egan to create artsy noise for those who happened to be paying attention. Although they never hit the big time, the band had some great successes...most notably landing spots as the opening band on tours by The Stranglers and The Skids. These tracks have held up very well with the passage of time, and should appeal to folks who enjoy the whole late 1970s punk/1980s new wave thing. Cool underground rock cuts include "On Them," "Grey Starling," "Tri X Pan," "The Preacher," and "Pharaohs." Interestingly, Carly ended up creating some iconic album cover art and West ended up working in marketing and A&R for several major labels. An interesting snapshot of a band who may just be on their way back up. Cool sounding danceable stuff with decidedly rough edges.Those Pretty Wrongs - Zed For Zulu (CD-R, Burger, Pop)
This one immediately caught our attention for three reasons. First, it's on the Burger Records label...so you know it's gotta be something interesting. Second, one half of the band is Jody Stephens who should need no introduction, as he played drums in the perpetually influential band Big Star. Third, the other half of the band is Luther Russell who many people now (including us) consider one of the most gifted underground pop artists in the United States. So, with such high expectations, how could this album ever hit the impossible target? Simple...by presenting smart, well-crafted, highly melodic smart underground pop that's bound to last a lifetime. Stephens and Russell met a few years ago during the making of a Big Star documentary. It wasn't long before they recorded a single together that was so well-received that it led to an album (which we unfortunately have not yet heard). As time passed the pair realized they had enough material to record a second album...and Zed For Zulu was born. Considering all the Big Star connections, you might think that this album would be a soundalike affair. Fortunately for everyone, these two guys have progressed with their lives and their music. And while there are definite traces of the past here, this album is decidedly unique and current. The two words that tie everything together best here are melodies and substance. There's so much throwaway pop in our world that it's sometimes very easy to forget that there are folks out there writing and recording pop music that transcends the medium. And that's exactly what the tracks on Zed do. Sure, they're hummable and catchy. But beneath the surface there's a lot more going on, both mentally and musically. And that ultimately means that after many spins and many years pass, the music will still sound great. The vocals (and harmonies) are absolutely stunning. This album is nothing short of a modern classic. Precise attention to detail. Excellent songs from start to finish. Wonderfully warm analog sound. What more could you ask for? These gentlemen are doing so much more than simply re-treading the past. Ten superb tracks including "Tonight, Tonight, Tonight," "The Carousel," "You + Me," and "It's About Love." Recommended. Top pick.
Pat Travers - Swing! (CD, Cleopatra, Swing/big band/instrumental)
Pat Travers is a man who has true perseverance. The Canadian musician who began his career in the 1970s with the Pat Travers Band continues making credible music for fans who continue to appreciate his true skills and talent. As you might guess, over such a long period of time Travers has skipped around from label to label and his band has had multiple lineups. But the two constants are the man and his guitar...and both are still sounding great in 2019. The appropriately titled Swing! is somewhat of a departure, as Pat and his fellow musicians tap into the world of music from past generations. Instead of doing what others expect from him, these days Travers seems to just do what interests him most. And that's probably why he remains credible and real in a world where so many sell their souls. The idea for this album came to him when he was listening to a 1940s radio station. He approached the taste-conscious folks at Cleopatra Records to see if they would be interested in releasing his take on big band/swing music and...Swing! was born. This is not a mere reproduction of songs from the past. Pat and his associates do a modern take on these tunes presenting them with a blues/rock approach. Some cuts are more stripped down, while others feature horns. A rollicking good time from start to finish, this album features eight well-crafted tracks including "Sing Sing Sing," "Opus One," "Take the 'A' Train," and "Let the Good Times Roll."Sunny War - Shell of a Girl (CD, Org Music, Progressive/folk)
Sparse, moody, modern progressive folk music with a different overall sound and feel. For an overview of Sunny War, visit her web site (link above). She's an interesting artist who seems to be approaching music from her own unique perspective. Shell of a Girl doesn't sound like other albums we've heard over the past decade or two. And that's probably because there are very few artists whose music combines elements from progressive, soul, folk, and blues into one cohesive whole. The tracks on this album are presented simply, using only the most essential instruments to get the point across. But get the point across she does, as Sunny comes across sounding like a truly inspired individual who is absolutely driven to write and record music. In a world full of songs that are overproduced and layered to death, Ms. War's compositions seem completely out of sync. And that is a very good thing, of course, because...who wants to sound exactly like everyone else? (Well, obviously a lot of people do...but that's another subject altogether.) We particularly love Sunny's voice. Without ever trying too hard, she just lets the lyrics and melodies softly flow...and the end result is strikingly smooth and resilient. Girl is a very cohesive album and every track is a keeper. You won't hear other artists like this currently on the horizon. Inspired tracks include "Shell," "Where the Lost Get Found," "Love Became Pain," "Soul Tramp," and "The Likes of You." [Note: If you've not yet been exposed to the Org Music label, we would suggest you check out the artist roster. Be prepared to be blown away, as these folks are releasing some truly interesting stuff.]Mark Wingfield & Gary Husband - Tor & Vale (CD, Moonjune, Progressive/instrumental)
The single word that probably best sums up this album is...inspired. There aren't many folks who could record an album featuring a single piano and single electric guitar and manage to be consistently entertaining and intriguing. So the fact that this album works so brilliantly is quite an accomplishment for these two gifted gentlemen. Recorded at a twelfth century farmhouse an hour outside of Barcelona, Spain (way cool), Tor & Vale is an example of how good things can sound when two people communicate flawlessly with their musical instruments. And that is particularly true when you consider the fact that three of these eight compositions were created spontaneously. This album is a far cry from where commercial music stands in 2019. So many people in the world tend to listen to the latest computer generated pop that's handed down to them. And although it is very true, it is also very sad. Sad because there is so much music with real substance out there in the world. The tracks on Tor & Vale will appeal to people who think and communicate on a higher level of consciousness. These guys seem to create and play out of pure inspiration (there's that word again). There's no attempt to come up with anything catchy and there are no tracks that could in any way be a potential hit single. Mark Wingfield and Gary Husband create music on their own terms. And, in doing so, manage to create brilliant recordings that truly touch the mind, heart, and soul. Eight lengthy tracks that provide perfectly presented modern progressive mood music with a difference. Precisely executed tracks include "Kittiwake," "The Golden Thread," "Tor & Vale," "Tryfan," and "Vaquita." Exquisite stuff, executed to perfection. Recommended. Top pick.
Diss wutt yoo gitz
Foe been batt.
Yoo gitz no AYE contakk.
Yoo gitz no inner-AKK-shuh.
You gits no
Direkk kumyoonuh-KAY-shuh.
Yoo gitz no
Kunsidder-RAY-shuh
Ubb inny kine.Yoo gitz
Nuffin.
She bish.
He bish.
Day awe bish.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
A
Academics for Pure Boredom - Slurps
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 - Aunt Sissy's lather bastard
Am Not - Am too
Anohni - Hopelessness
Anthroplod - Plodroanth
Antlers for Booboo - Oh no not that tired old runt again
Ape - Don't say no words
Apples Got Smushy - Train smush
Application For Crap - Please submit crap
Athens Is Not A City - Trauma for the bush animals
August Wish - Traps for punted
Augusta Is Not A City - Wilma for the plush panelsB
Bad Bump - Banana tread
Badfigure - Crooked down
Bambi Dambi - Lambi
Ballerina Pumps - Blackass
Barge - Limpy
Beadulls - Desmocker
Beatles - Medium
Beatles - Medium rare
Beatles - Rare
Beatles - Not as rare
Beatles - Stuff that was never recorded
Beatles - Stuff that we wish had never been recorded
Bee Numb - Numb bee
Beyonce - Sorry album
Beyonce - I can dance but that's about it
Beyonce - My face is ugly
Beyonce - Don't you get tired of hearing my stupid name all the time
Beyonce - I'm really a boring old hag
Beyonce - My fans have poor taste
Beyond the Beyonder - Blander and blander
Bjork - Jorky B
Black Tabitha - Pastor of senility
Blankets for Blankets - Laps
Blender in a Blinder - Fizzle
Bobo's Pretty Duster - Lamp off, lamp on
Davis Bowee - All the dumb dudes
Breezer the Flew - Like dazzlers in fume
Garth Brooks - I've recorded tons and tons and TONS of music
Garth Brooks - And yet you babysue folks have never reviewed ANYTHING
Garth Brooks - What is wong with you goddamn undergroud music snobs?
Garth Brooks - I'm rich, rich, RICH
Garth Brooks - If you've got lots of money, nobody cares if your voice is shitty
Bumps Fifty - West
Jenna Bush - Why does my face resemble the rectum of a pig?
Jenna Bush - Trying way too hard to be clever and cute
Butler Pudding - Lippity gris gris
Buzz's Lamp Cord - Tawny frinkC
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
Chicky Chicky Clock - Rump of the month slob
Chump - Malaria
Chunks of Paisley Pumps - Lordy the snore is a plaza burn
Eric Clapton - I still don't know what a guitar is
Phil Collins - No vocal skills required
Sean Combs - How come I never get reviewed in babysue?
Sean Combs - You don't like me just because I'm hugely famous
Sean Combs - Hey, I make a lot of money you underground jerks
Sean Combs - I'm rich, rich, RICH...ain't that what it's all about?
Sean Combs - Lookin' ugly for everyone
Come To Lulu's Nurse - Romp and the bumpy tum tum
Confederate Railroad - Happy to snort crystal speed
Conscious Or Not - Grumpy lazy
Crap You Like - Tape measure
Crosby, Stills & Nash - We were friends once upon a time
Crunchy Links - Switches and prawns
Miley Cyrus - How come I never get mentioned in babysue?
Miley Cyrus - I guess it's because my music lacks substance
Miley Cyrus - I wish I wasn't dull and boring
Czerchnkii - DimD
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
Devonte - I'm fish food now
Diets Are For Dimwits - Lassie's lost pudding cup
Dimmer than Dim - Inputs
Diorssi - New York is my damn
Dirty Pennies - Flocks and pimps
Doves That Die Today - Lassie
Driplite Dirtbag - Directional
Dry Potato - Sync
Ducks for Ducks - Nine hundred ponies
Dumb Sounds - Like Nanny and the poodleE
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
Enough for Five Thousand - One bottle
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 soF
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 - PouchesG
Gang of Flower - Untertainment
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
Goddamn Children - Goddamn us all to hell
Graham Slackers - Naturally grabby
Ariana Grande - My fame proves that people are retarded schmucks
Grandmothers and Grandfathers - Nothing else to live for except the goddamn grandchildren
Grass Patches - Dolby
Josh Groban - Sitting on a toilet for charityH
Hamster on a Bun - Heartache on a bun
Hamster on a Lettuce Leaf - Try to find something to stuff in your cheeks
Jennifer and Sarah Hart - Where did our love go
Jennifer and Sarah Hart - We loved Jesus very much
Jennifer and Sarah Hart - Happy together forever because we died together
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
Whitney Houston - Howzuh bauwduh nuthuh drank?
Whitney Houston - You put water in my drink
Ian Hunted - Punts and nuttters
Husperate - ADN
Hut for Henry - Universe of sandy
Huzzle - Earlier albumsI
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 hisJ
Alan Jackson - Now that I'm a girl
Alan Jackson - Now that I'm half a girl
Alan Jackson - My dress has a big tear in it
Alan Jackson - And my eyeliner is all messed up now
Michael Jackson - Off the floor
Michael Jackson - Towers of mops
Michael Jackson - Nose dopes
Jerry's Apple - Towers
Jerry's Crud - Narry a buster
Jersey is Swervy - Translustre
Jethro Toil - Sick as a tick
Jethro Wump - Aquatong
Jethro Zoo - Minstrel in the snake exhibit
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 trunkK
Kaas - Lacey
Kalesh - Kaos
Kandy and the Ks - Lassie's drool
Kows - Land of the Kows
Kraftlunch - Radio lunch
Kraftdinner - Electric dinner
Kraftsnack - Trans euro snack
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 - ListsL
Lab Crutch - Tramps that David hates
Ladies For Pretzels - Louder than the other thing that we had discussed earlier
Lady Gaga - How come I never get mentioned in babysue?
Lady Gaga - If I look really strange, nothing else matters
Lamb Peppers - Smuppy
Lamps for the Homeless - These goddamn things don't work
Cindi Lauper - Elderly grandmothers with bad hair colors
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 - Sings her favorite Nine Inch Nails songs
Loud and Loud - Dull and dull
Lumineers - Cleopatra
Lumps - Lousy mouses
Lung Disease - TrowelM
Manners and Nanners - Tablets for pokey
Maroon 5 - Music for shitheads
Maroon 5 - Stupid people love our music
Maroon 5 - Our lead singer is one ugly old homo
Trayvon Martin - Skittuzz fo evuhbuddeh
Trayvon Martin - Juss a boy on his way to duh candee sto
Masta Ace - The falling season
Matchbox - Going down there
Math for Math's Sake - Plazas
Maze Lops - Trazzler
Mazer's Big Torch Bucket - Lipsy
Bruce McArthur - People in pots
Bruce McArthur - Landscape architect blues
Bruce McArthur - Big 'n' playful
Paul McCartney - Nursing home blues
Tim McGraw - Do anything for charity
Tim McGraw - Do anything to make money
Millie's Pork Bucket - Boxes won't go away
Money for Puny People - Lucky drop
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
Motorbutt - Clock your cleaners
Mrowl - Prowling for mrowl
Murphy and Nop - Dammy and slop
Murphy and Nuns - Drippy nun bitches
Murphy's Paw - Plaid and dumb
My Evening Girdle - Snippets and drabble
My Evening Snot - Things my animals forget to learnN
David Nail - Fighter
Nasal and Tonsil - Lasers and urchers
Ned and the Headrumpers - Trowels
Aaron Neville - Apache
Newsboys - God's not dead
New York Dolls - We weren't real dolls
New York Dolls - We were real dolls
New York Dolls - We were really from Portland
New York Dolls - But we realized no one would buy music by the Portland Dolls
No More Blouses - Farmy
No More Bundt Cakes - Prowler
No More Cactus - Deal or no no
Nothing That You Haven't Heard Before - Repeat it
Now Cows - Blouses and thermometers
Numb's Fumbler - Town and mouthO
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
The Orb - It's 1963 and the stripes are grinding
The Orb - Big fluffy omelets
Osmosis - USB #7
Other Muzzles - Howdy Pops
Oz and the Schnoz - Pow wows and monkeysP
Painted Fuss - Nope
Pants and Pantless - Rainy press
Part Blub - Fran is ugly
Dolly Parton - Lots of money makes me happy
Dolly Parton - Lots of attention makes me happy
Dolly Parton - Lots of everything makes me happy
Paws With Fingers - Ink bus
Pet Shop Boys - Super
Poodle Powder - Dust of the dawgie
Mike Posner - At night, alone
Pranks for Steak Loads - Heaps of slop
The Puddles - Nappy load
Punk Biscuits - Sap
Punk Noodles - Take this noodle and cook it
Puny - Runny infection
Pusfergradison - Nay, the basket sayethQ
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
Quarternelson - A trotter in snuffer's cloning
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 benchR
Radiodud - Half of the basic shop
Radishes - Lavish stickers
Debbie Rafter - Lemme after
Raws - Raws and raws
Reel to Raoul - Mouthpiece
Reform Club - Never yesterday
Rely On Relish - Candy dash
Mick Rhodes & The Hard Eight - Paradise city
Roasted Trap - Asia's not there anymore
Rolling Bones - Get your mama's kraut
Rolling Chunks - Flower pots
Rolling Dammits - Sure thing not sure
Rolling Elderly People - Stocky plungers
Rolling Joints - Finky stinkers
Rolling Monkeys - Monkeys on Main Street
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 anymoreS
Larry Samual - Barney doesn't have hugs for me
Santa Died Last Night - Presenting...
Santa Did It - Lamenting
Ed Sheeran - How come I never get mentioned in babysue?
Ed Sheeran - It's because my music is crummy, isn't it?
Ed Sheeran - Why do I look and sound so crummy?
Ed Sheeran - Are there any questions that have answers?
Blake Shelton - Can't help it if I'm a boring dullard
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
Shotgun Louise - Rampy dim
Shotgun Tina - Lousy lamps
Shotgun Zappa - Mouses and mouses
Smashing Drumsticks - Pass the pepper
Smuppy - The tatters that ground pepper
Sparse - Kim's Ono spy mouse
Bruce Springsteen - The Crazy Boss
Bruce Springsteen - I'm a generic old woman now
Bruce Springsteen - Shallow songs that everyone can buy
Barbra Streisand - Barfing up my breakfast
Styx - Suite madame blue: Radio broadcast 1977
Sultans of Swing - Subcontinental drift
Swap and Change - Loudness weird
Swenter - Flowers
Taylor Swift - How come I never get reviewed in babysue?
Taylor Swift - Well, if your publicist would send something...you might.
Taylor Swift - Really?
Taylor Swift - Sure
Swy - RentT
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 being shallow
Tonk - Thoughtly
Trilly Dills and Damp Dippers - Witch white
Trunk Idiots - Laugh when it's all over
Try To Try - Stop and try
Tummy Bus - Lambs and prawns
Tunker - Lassie's paw
TZ397 - Rowl the smunkU
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
Carrie Underwood - I'm proof that people will buy anything
Carrie Underwood - Making money is more important than making good music
Carrie Underwood - Cliff diving lesbians
Keith Urban - More pork from my smelly pig faceV
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're 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
Why Can't We Eat It In The Car - Marbly
William XIII - XIII or 238
Wind That Goes - Don'tX
X - The day we tied our shoes wrong
Xie - La la the distance away
X-ray Pecs - Lookie away
X-ray Stats - Box cutters and tramplers
Xzistance - Lift downY
Yack Yack - Tacky tick
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
Young and Bland - Stick, stuck
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
Frank Zappa - Lukewarm mouses
Zi - See Zi play
Zunk - How the leaves got patchy
Zupper - Towels for Blanche
Zyle - Twelve and fifty
©2019 LMNOP (aka dONW7)
