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August 2003 Boppy L'il Reviews by
About
E-mails | The babysue®
Store | General Info | LMNOP®
| Quotes | Official
T-Shirts | Review
Policies
August 2003 Boppy L'il Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
August 2003 Comment Piece: Drug is Bad? Or Drug is Good?
Drug... is they bad...or is they good? Drug, they is good. Drug, they is bad. Drug hurt you. Drug help you. Drug is confused topic, making for unfortunate on part of both taker and one of disposing. No take drug, take drug...but no, you go take drug yes. Are all drug similar...or not similar? Is question for discussion...for taking rice and noodle equation to next century. You like fried rice with vegetable? You want rice topping with drug? Make fun of using drug not funny, for drug ruin many life. All size and kind of children give in to drug and become dependable with success. If there is one thing world not need, it dependable children. Teenager all take drug because of wanting to feel happy inside. But is taking drug really happy inside? To consider, we look at possible situation. Consider teenager that is opting for no breaking law. Teenager is to be seen as goodie goodie and not happy noodle producer. Now consider different teenager what goes to wild party and throw caution to wind. Is happy on outside yes...but on inside is ALL TORE UP and BLOODY. Tendency for position of late is for showing all thing that happen in happy family. You want spicy...or not spicy? Spicy is VERY spicy, perhaps? You liking egg drop soup? Now take fortune cookie. Open cookie and reading, which says One day soon you know difference between good and bad...but for now, only do anything necessary for condition to improve. Next day, reading changes and says, You very small baby, so small that nobody wanting you around anymore for milking to produce. Two week later, reading change to say Pokey ball go up and down hallway in very odd motion, reflecting tendency for author to go off on obtuse tangent WAY too often for general tasting. We not have taste, so we not care. As for now, you, our reader, should (1) throw cookie in garbage, (2) fart baloney particles, and then (3) swim far, far away...right into the light of the goddamn moon.
The
Afflictions - Janet Style (CD, Killdeer / Trophy
Buck, Rock)
Great upbeat bluesy alternative rock with plenty of extra punches for the
buck. Chicago-based The Afflictions have been around since 2000.
Their sound is reminiscent of early Rolling Stones, particularly
Jeremiah McIntyre's vocals (although the band also cites The Buzzcocks,
Stevie Wonder, The Meters, Bo Diddley, and The Oblivions
as influences). From our perspective, the band's music reminds us a great
deal of Richard Hell. The playing is energetic but loose...the songs
catchy yet artsy...and the overall sound is slightly reminiscent of 1970s
punk (although these guys are definitely not a punk band!). This
is one of those cases where intent is everything. These guys are
playing and singing for the right reasons--to have a good time and to entertain
people. Their passion for what they are doing comes through loud and clear
on Janet Style. This is a great upbeat album chock full of spontaneous
energy. Features killer cuts like "Ain't Nobody," "I Like
to Push You Around," "Do the Munky Rentch," and "Old
Testament Love." This one is a BLAST. (Rating: 5+)
A
Northern Chorus - Spirit Flags (CD,
Sonic Unyon Recording Company,
Progressive pop)
Music that flows like our minds on a breezy day in completely natural surroundings.
Canada's A Northern Chorus create wonderful musical landscapes that
are slow, methodical, and determined. The band's compositions sound something
like Low...except the overall sound is more focused and complex...and
also somewhat like Friends of Dean Martinez...except the music is
not quite as drug influenced. Spirit Flags is cerebral in nature.
In addition to vocals and guitar, the band's songs incorporate basses, flute,
viola, violin, and various percussion instruments. Despite the complicated
arrangements, the songs never come across sounding pretentious and overproduced.
Instead, the overall simplistic nature of the playing is central to understand
the band's music. The vocals are absolutely heavenly. Eleven beautiful crafted
tunes here...including "Red Carpet Blues," "Mombassa,"
and "Flag In Hand." Excellent. (Rating: 5+)
Ballboy
- A Guide for the Daylight Hours (CD, Manifesto,
Pop)
The first studio album from Edinboro, Scotland's Ballboy. At this
point, we have suspicions that a "Manifesto sound" is beginning
to emerge. That is to say, if you like the music of labelmates David
Gedge and Lilys...there is a good chance you will also dig Ballboy
tunes. The band released their first EP back in 1999...but apparently took
their time coming up with the material for A Guide for the Daylight Hours.
The band's sense of humor is obvious from their song titles (which are often
more like social statements): "Where Do the Nights of Sleep Go To When
They Do Not Come To Me"..."I Lost You, But I Found Country Music"..."Nobody
Really Knows Anything"..."All the Records on the Radio are Shite"...
Funny stuff to read, but the band's sound and approach are anything but
a joke. The songs remind us of The Kinks and Television Personalities...but
only slightly. The band is a group of four normal people...who just happen
to enjoy playing ultra-groovy music together. In real life Gordon McIntyre
and Katie Griffiths are school teachers, Nick Reynolds is
a nursery nurse, and Gary Morgan is a sound technician. Although
this band's music is not "cute"...it is most certainly decidedly
clever and intelligent. Simultaneously thought provoking, fun, and...different.
(Rating: 5+)
Beloved - Failure On (CD, Solid
State, Hard rock)
Beloved is a harsh and aggressive musical outfit with much more depth
and creativity than your average generic metallic crashers. These five monster
men produce a big, thick wall of sound that is harsh and intense...but they
never regress into that disappointing basket of boring rockers who make
loud noise for the sake of making loud noise. Beloved tunes are unpredictable...combining
elements of pop, rock, metal, and progressive rock into a heady and even
(at times) catchy concoction. Sometimes the band roars...at other times
they rock...and they even occasionally lower the volume to present a completely
different side ("Allure"). If you think all hardcore bands sound
alike, these guys will prove you wrong. Powerful rockers include "Failure
On My Lips," "Rise & Fall," "Watching the Lines
Blur," and "Insult to Injury." (Rating: 4+++)
The Blue Series Continuum - Good and Evil Sessions (CD, Thirsty
Ear, Modern jazz/progressive)
The Blue Series Continuum is an open ended project consisting of
a rotating group of musicians...with no particular individual being the
leader at any point in time. For this, the debut album, the continuum consists
of Roy Campbell, Alex Lodico, William Parker, Josh Roseman, Matthew
Shipp, and Miso. Due to the nature of the band, the compositions
on this album are (understandably) unpredictable. Some pieces are more jazzy
than others...while other tracks tread into experimental territory. Good
and Evil Sessions is a good fit for its name. Some of the music is relatively
light and airy while other pieces are dark and unusual. Considering the
wide range of material, this album holds together unusually well. Smooth,
clever pieces include "Brainwash," "The Stakeout," "Change
of Plans," and "Sweetbitter." (Rating: 5)
The
Break / Let It Burn - The Break / Let It Burn (Split CD EP, Doghouse,
Rock)
Hell-raising hard rock music from two New Jersey Bands. Up first is The
Break...an appropriately named little firehouse of a band with a hard
rock sound that is punchy and smart...and rather intense. The band offers
three tunes...including the intensely furious "We Live Without Sleep"
(a great rocker) and the crazy rhythmic sound of "I Name You Disaster."
Let It Burn has an even rawer sound. These guys are hard rockers
whose music is reminiscent of late 1970s rock. The vocalist has a great
"who the f*ck cares" attitude that makes the songs cook. The band
presents three cuts: "I Believe In Love," "Guzellugh (Celebration
of the Sun)," and "Fade Away." All are reminiscent of The
Sex Pistols. Two new kickass bands on one disc (!). (Rating: 4+++)
Buchanan - All Understood (CD, Ultimatum
Music, Pop)
Credible soulful pop that would make Joan Armatradding proud. The
four men in this band reside in Southern California...and they provide plenty
of Americana-based soul pop on All Understood. Make no mistake, Buchanan
is most certainly not an alternative band. The band's music is very
middle-of-the-road...and wouldn't sound out of place at all chiming out
of mom and/or dad's car stereo on a hot summer afternoon. That said, this
album is a nice, smooth listen. Instead of challenging the listener...these
guys seem intent on simply providing some good, hummable toe-tapping music.
Bandleader Jay Buchanan has the pipes to make this band's tunes cook.
Well-written compositions such as "Plans," "Satan Is A Woman"
(?), and "How Crazy I Am" make this album a cool, smooth ride.
Solid. (Rating: 4+)
Dakota
Suite - This River Only Brings Poison
(CD, Planting Seeds,
Soft pop)
This River Only Brings Poison, the third full-length album from Britain's
Dakota Suite, is a soft, subtle, and cerebral affair. The album casts
a grand spotlight on bandleader Chris Hooson's strong songwriting
abilities as well as his deep, smooth voice. Recorded with Bruce Kaphan
and Tom Mooney (both were members of American Music Club),
these compositions are major accomplishments in the world of restraint.
While his songs are understated, Hooson's material is by no means wimpy
or weak. The tempo is so slow that--at times--the music seems to limp along.
But that is the exact intent. These tunes were not meant to charge out of
the gates like lions on speed nor to drown the listener in a wash of loud
instruments. These modern moody pop pieces were created out of an obvious
love of music...and the desire to provide wonderfully relaxing music. The
overall result is jazzy as well as slightly hazy and dreamy material. Don't
expect to pick up on what this man is doing on the first listen. The true
meat of his material only becomes obvious after many spins. Delightfully
entertaining cuts include "The Lepers Companion," "Verdriet,"
"We Made It Rain," and "The Space Around Your Sleeping."
Includes four bonus tracks: "Love Gun," "One for the Shoeshine
Man," "When I Think of Myself Dead," and "The Streets
Were All I Saw." Excellent. (Rating: 5+++)
Darlington - Moron-a-Thon (CD, Stardumb,
Power pop/rock)
Texas-based Darlington return with another album chock full of purely
uplifting power pop/punk. These guys are obviously dedicated to their cause...and
as years go by their music seems to become even more infused with power
and virtual integrity. Moron-a-Thon is a wonderfully catchy l'il
album...much of it sounding amazingly like The Young Fresh Fellows
in their prime. The guitars are loud buzzsaws...the rhythms direct and unrelenting...and
the vocals have just the right amount of attitude and sloppyness to make
the whole think click like flying saucers at midnight. This band's strongest
strength is their simplicity and their ability to craft quality melodies.
The lyrics are sometimes funny...often seeming like entries from a personal
diary. Ten great little cuts guaranteed to make your granny proud. Includes
"Chelsea," "21 Park Lane," "Girls + Summer = Fun!,"
and "Electrocute Me." Great stuff...! (Rating: 5+)
Dave
Derby - Even Further Behind (CD, Badman, Pop)
The man who should've been a major kingpin in the pop world of the 1990s...is
back with yet another stunning collection of shimmering pop. Dave Derby
first came to the attention of most folks by way of his first band The
Dambuilders. Even though the band was fantastic, they ended up being
somewhat of an obscure favorite among critics...and had little commercial
success. After the band dissolved, Derby released two CDs under the name
Brilliantine...which consisted of home-recorded compositions. Switch
to 2003...Derby is back...with a super slick and totally satisfying batch
of extraordinary tunes. Why did he drop the Brilliantine name? In Derby's
own words, "I wanted to remove that level of artifice that was really
a solo project masquerading behind a band name. Of course now I'm masquerading
as an earnest sensitive singer-songwriter, but what can you do?"
Actually, Derby is by no means masquerading. He truly is an earnest and
sensitive singer-songwriter of the highest callibre...and the man has a
voice to die for. Because he has produced so much great work, it is difficult
to say whether or not this is Derby's best album...but it certainly rivals
anything he's done up to this point. Exceptionally well-written tunes include
"Middle Class Hero," "California Nervous Breakdown"
(an amazing cut), "Sad Northern Town," and "Cigarette Cowboy."
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5++++)
The Distant Pokers
Polly and frag...The Distant Pokers are on a rag. They dilly and
they froth, put their pillies on a mention. Then they sass it up and down
'til their neighbors lose their pensions. There's not nilly or a nally that
can punch their tilly-tally. But they wicker and they weigh for the poxacilan
day. Mr. Fixture asks away, "How can pokers save the day?" There's
no answer 'til next morn...when the old folks nurse their porn. Mr. Fixture
fades away...leaving grey stains on the tray. The tray gets up and gets
all sissy, making teething sounds with Lissie. The Distant Pokers turn and
sway, taking clouds inside their cave. "How do, Mr. Fixture,"
asks the second tiniest poker. "Ain't no bitt-niss o' YERN!" he
screams back, allowing ample time for an attack. Mice and miniature pasture
geese trickle in...leaving a big rumpled overcoat laying in the briney waves.
(Rating: 1)
The
Everyothers - The Everyothers (CD, Hautlab Music Group, Rock/pop)
Heavily influenced by David Bowie and Iggy Pop, The Everyothers'
self-titled album sounds a great deal like the music their idols made many
years ago...but with an updated style and sound. Discussing this disc, the
band says they "wanted it to have the influence of Iggy's Lust for
Life album." They most certainly achieved this goal. The overall
sound and energy...and particularly the vocals...are very similar. But after
spinning this album a few times...the only slight problem that we have found
with The Everyothers' music...is that, at this point in their career, they
are simply too derivative. That is not to say that these guys will not produce
some great music at some point in the future. They have real potential.
They can play and sing up a storm. And their songs are good. They just need
more unique songs that display their own individual sound...rather than
the sound of others. Still a good album nonetheless... (Rating: 3+++)
Figure
Four - Suffering the Loss (CD, Solid State, Hard rock)
Loud, harsh, intense, and brutal rock played with plenty of thick hard metallic
thrashing. Figure Four could almost be termed as a death metal band...except
for the fact that their music actually rocks and one can even occasionally
understand the lyrics. (For those who cannot, a lyric booklet is included.)
This quintet of abrasive thrashers don't quite look the part. A couple of
the members look like normal guys...and the band even features a female
guitarist. Suffering the Loss is chock full of the kind of unrelenting,
furious, alienated rock music that adolescents crave. The folks in Figure
Four seem utterly dedicated to their cause...touring constantly...and playing
like there's no tomorrow. This band isn't for everyone...but that is exactly
the point. Songs like "State of Mind," "Kill and Deceive,"
"Suffocation," and "Thieves Don't Knock" are hard, roaring
rockers meant to blow roofs off. Loud and vicious. (Rating: 4++)
Flattbush - Smash the Octopus! (CD, Kool
Arrow, Hardcore/thrash/noise)
Loud, abrasive, intense, violent, frantic, and totally out of control. Flattbush
plays a style of music that is certain to alienate 99.9% of all who come
into contact with their music. The only folks who are going to be drawn
in are those who seek a world where hard persistent noise is never restrained...and
throbbing screaming noise reigns supreme. In other words...all parents will
hate this band. Smash the Octopus! is the band's first album...and
it's frightening. But it is also impressive...that the band could come up
with something this coherent for a debut disc. Crazy stuff here, including
"Better Off Dead," "Foxhole," "Death Squad,"
and "Red Light District." Very, very, VERY intense... (Rating:
4++)
Garrison - The Silhouette EP (CD EP, Revelation,
Rock)
Garrison returns with a harsh and intense five song EP. The Silhouette
is a blistering little disc...once again proving what an intense band Garrison
is. Slamming out of the gate with "Come On Die Young (No Seriously),"
the band instantly grabs the saddle and politely heads off to hell in a
sassy little handbasket. Their punk roots pop up on "Everything You
Want"...and then they get down to some serious rocking with "God
Is Not On Our Side." The EP concludes with "We Know Our Demographic"
and "The Closer." No one does hard rock quite like these guys.
A slam dunk disc. Loud and crazy. If this were a full-length it would've
received a "5." (Rating: 4+++)
The GC5
- Kisses From Hanoi / Horseshoes & Handgrenades (CD, Thick, Rock)
The GC5 sound something like an updated cross between Sloppy Seconds
and early Stranglers...except the music is much faster than either.
Kisses From Hanoi was originally released in 2000 but fell out of
print. The fine folks at Thick have reissued the album and added five songs
from the (previously available only as an import) Horseshoes & Handgrenades
EP. These guys have an unrelenting, powerful sound that that is characterized
by an assaultive rhythm section, buzzsaw guitars, and hoarse throaty vocals.
Formed in 1996, this Ohio band is a furious little group. They play loud
and they play hard. What probably sets these guys apart from thousands of
other similar punk rock bands is that their lyrics are smart. Cool loud
rockers like "Nothing But These Songs," "Not the Only One,"
"Culture Wars," and "Bastards of Young" ought to please
virtually all those wishing to dance themselves into a hot and sweaty blur.
(Rating: 4+++)
George Usher Group - Fire Garden (CD, Parasol,
Pop)
George Usher may not be a household name...but chances are you've
heard his music before. This man has been writing and recording since he
was in his teens...eventually playing in the bands The Decoys, Beat
Rodeo, The Bongos, and House of Usher. Though he's been
at it for years...Mr. Usher has obviously not lost the spark that he had
in the beginning. Fire Garden is a lovely album full of sparkling
melodies and shimmering instrumentation. Many of the tunes have a slight
British influences...and are strangely reminiscent of some of the best 1980s
guitar pop. The guitar playing is particularly impressive. Fluid guitar
notes seem to soar right through the mix and puncture the skull with their
precise and effective direction. Joining George in the band are Doug
Larcey, Dennis Ambrose, and John Bellow. The album was
(appropriately) mixed by legendary producer Mitch Easter. Fifteen
killer cuts...just the right dose of uplifting music to brighten your brightest
days. "Too Busy Dreaming" is so good that it gave us chills (!!!).
(Rating: 5+++)
Pat
Green - Wave on Wave (CD, Republic / Universal,
Country/pop)
After a two year absence from recording...Pat Green is back with
another absorbing and satisfying collection of country music infused with
a healthy dose of Americana pop. Recorded in both Texas and California,
Wave on Wave effectively presents where Mr. Green is currently at
in 2003. Having already received two Country Grammy nominations, this young
man is well on his way to making his name a household word. For those who
may be unaware of his growing popularity...his last album (Three Days)
debuted on Billboard's Country Album Chart at #7 (!). Wave on Wave
is likely to create an even stronger buzz...as it is quite possibly Green's
strongest album yet. The tunes are polished and smooth...but while they
are most certainly easy on the ears, there is also a subtle and appealing
urgency present. Green wrote and/or co-wrote twelve of the thirteen tunes
here. This album is chock full of feelgood country pop that should appeal
to most anyone who enjoys this genre of music. Top notch tracks such as
"Guy Like Me," "California," and "All the Good
Things Fade Away" make this an exceptional album. (Rating: 5)
Guapo
and Cereberus Shoal - The Ducks and Drakes of Guapo and Cereberus Shoal (CD,
North East Indie, Experimental/progressive
electronic drone)
Music that certainly isn't for everyone. This CD contains one composition
each from Guapo and Cereberus Shoal...and a third track that
was recorded jointly by the two artists. The music on The Ducks and Drakes
of Guapo and Cereberus Shoal is really not so musical at all. Instead,
these three lengthy cuts feature electronic experimentation that, more often
than not, is somewhat of a heady drone. The overall effect is slightly hypnotic...and
somewhat trippy. There are no beats...no easily discernible melodies...very
little indeed for the average listener to grasp. This is truly esoteric
stuff...and it is, surprisingly, a rather smooth spin. Features three tracks:
"Idios Kosmos," "A Man Who Loved Holes," and "Kdios,
Iosmos, He Two Loved Holes." Strangely addictive. (Rating: 5)
Head
of Femur - Ringodom or Proctor (CD,
Greyday Productions,
Progressive pop)
If you love art rock from the 1970s...chances are you'll find a lot to latch
onto on Ringodom or Proctor. On this, the band's debut album, their
love for early Sparks, Eno, and Roxy Music is obvious.
The core of Head of Femur consists of Mike Elsener, Ben
Armstrong, and Matt Focht...although in concert the trio solicits
the assistance of up to seven additional players. The songs on this album
do not fit into any easily identifiable category. The guys in Head of Femur
are writing and recording music that does not sound like other bands currently
on the horizon. Because of this, they are almost certain to develop a small
but devoted underground following. After spinning this album several times...we
still aren't quite sure what to make of it. This may be one of those
cases where everything sinks in after 50 spins. Includes eleven unusually
obtuse but intelligent pop tunes like "January On Strike," "Me,
My Dad, My Cousin, and...Ronnie," and "Finally I've Made It Nowhere."
(Rating: 4+++)
Holy
Sons - I Want To Live A Peaceful Life
(CD, Film Guerrero, Soft
pop)
I Want To Live A Peaceful Life is an engaging and well-developed
album featuring exceptionally well-written songs. Holy Sons is the
one man band consisting of Emil Amos. Understanding exactly where
Amos is coming from is not a quick and easy task...and therein lies the
beauty of his music. Approach and overall feeling vary greatly from tune
to tune...as this multi-faceted album showcases this man's unique musical
vision. This, the fourth Holy Sons album, features songs that are personal
and real. Emil's music possesses a vulnerable quality that is ultimately
satisfying. His vocals range from confident and self-assured...to somewhat
shaky and uncertain. Listening to this disc, one gets the impression that
this man is honestly laying out his ideas and feelings for the world...and
allowing all aspects of his personality to shine through in the mix. While
the album was produced and recorded by Adam Selzer at his Type Foundry
studio, Amos also includes five songs that he recorded in his home studio.
There's a great deal more depth here than one normally finds in modern pop
music. Intriguing pieces like "Trivialized," "Family Man,"
"Last Hurrah," and "Amen" make this album a true winner.
(Rating: 5+++)
The Husbands - Introducing the Sounds of The Husbands (CD, Swami,
Rock/pop)
If you like bands on the Kill Rock Stars label...there's a good chance you
will dig the lo-fi, semi-distorted sound of The Husbands. Sadie
Shaw, Sarah Reed, and Nikki Sloate are a trio with attitude.
Their rough tunes sound like demonstration tapes for a future album...but
the sparse sound is most certainly not a mere coincidence. These girls aren't
trying to clean up their act or make a commercially accessible single. They
are playing for that small audience that wants their music raw and undiluted.
The band writes the majority of their own tunes...but they also include
covers by Bo Diddley and Carole King (?!?). Introducing
the Sounds of The Husbands is a strange and sassy little album that
showcases three young girls with lots of energy and the skills to transform
that energy into some badass underground rock and roll. (Rating: 4+++)
The
Innocence Mission - Befriended (CD,
Badman, Folk/pop)
Cool, thoughtful, soft, and wonderfully innocent folky pop. Members of The
Innocence Mission first played together in a Catholic school production
of Godspell. Since that time this band has transformed into highly
original unit. The players are Karen Peris (guitars, piano, organ,
vocals), her husband Don Peris (guitars, drums, vocals), and Mike
Bitts (bass). Karen writes most of the material and handles most lead
vocals. Her voice is extraordinarily unaffected and genuine. The tunes on
Befriended are personal and well-written. The ten cuts on this album
sound like virtual classics. The band never overplays or buries their music
underneath overdubs. Instead, they keep their music simple, direct, and
to-the-point. This will easily be one of the best soft pop albums to be
released this year. Ultra-satisfying cuts include "Tomorrow on the
Runway," "When Mac Was Swimming," "No Storms Come,"
and "Look for Me as You Go By." Absolutely wonderful. (Rating:
5+++)
Bill
Jones - Two Year Winter (Double CD,
Compass, Folk)
Bill Jones is a girl (Bill is short for Belinda). But Bill Jones
is not just any girl. Bill is an exceptionally fresh and talented
young lady whose music recalls the golden era of the folk resurgence in
Britain in the 1970s...when artists such as Fairport Convention and
Steeleye Span were making it cool for young folks to listen to traditional
folk music. Two Year Winter is a genuine and sincere collection of
tunes that will please even the most jaded music listeners. With a voice
as smooth as a mountain breeze, Ms. Jones manages to instantly captivate
and mesmerize...basing her tunes around piano and accordion. Instead of
burying these songs under thick productions...Bill instead opts to leave
lots of open space in her compositions...allowing the listener to concentrate
on the core melody...and her wonderfully optimistic delivery. The fluid
and organic sound of cuts like "From My Window," "The Story
of Our Darling Grace," and "Bide" is haunting and superb.
In addition to the album, this package also includes a bonus CD featuring
Jones' Bits and Pieces EP. Folk music doesn't get much better than
this. It sure makes American folk sound...absurd and totally boring (!).
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. (Rating: 6)
Paula
Kelley - The Trouble With Success or How
You Fit Into the World (CD, Kimchee,
Pop)
Smooth and beautiful girlpop. Paula Kelley was formerly with Drop
Nineteens, Hot Rod, and Boy Wonder...but is now off on
her own. After obviously paying her dues...Ms. Kelley comfortably displays
her real talents here...as a solo artist. The Trouble With Success
is a lovely album, merging pop elements from the 1960s all the way through
to the present...with the single identifying thread being Ms. Kelley's wonderfully
smooth vocals. Some of the compositions are basic guitar pop...while others
feature orchestral elements and lush background vocals. The fresh, upbeat
sound of this album is almost impossible to dislike. Instead of sounding
like a jaded artist who has turned bitter with time...Paula sings with the
enthusiasm of a woman who has just recorded her first album. In a word...this
album is... groovy (!). Features thirteen cool cuts including "My
Finest Hour," "The Rest of You," and "Where Do You Go."
Wonderfully inviting. (Rating: 5)
James Kirk - You Can Make It If You Boogie (CD, Marina,
Soft pop)
James Kirk's name might not instantly familiar to most people...but
the influences of his music have most likely been felt. Kirk was originally
in the band Orange Juice (which also included Edwyn Collins).
In addition, the band James named themselves after him. Other bands
such as The Smiths, Primal Scream, and Belle & Sebastian
have cited him as a major influence. For one who has been making music for
so many years, it may be surprising that this is James Kirk's first solo
album. His songs are subtle and understated...yet they contain major hooks
and feature wonderfully appropriate arrangements. The tunes on the humorously
titled You Can Make It If You Boogie possess a certain classic feel
that may give the listener the impression that he/she has heard this music
before. But with the exception of a new recording of the Orange Juice track
"Felicity," these are all new compositions...which provide obvious
proof that this man still has a lot to say. This is a beautifully crafted
yet laidback album that goes down nice and easy. Smooth, hummable pop music
that is likely to please fans of the previously mentioned Belle & Sebastian
(whom, interestingly, Kirk will be touring with to promote this album).
Quite the cool spin indeed... (Rating: 5)
Seth Knappen - Leaving Sound (CD, Future
Appletree, Ambient pop)
Subtlety is rare...and Leaving Sound is subtle. Seth Knappen
has played in numerous bands over the years, including Darling, Multiple
Cat, and Driver of the Year. With this release, Seth charts out
on his own...combining ambient electronics with soft pop to create a pleasing
and soothing album. Many of these cuts remind us of early Eno and
early Todd Rundgren--although there are no direct or obvious links.
Leaving Sound was (appropriately) produced by Alan Sparhawk
(of Low). Knappen is a master of understated soft pop. His compositions
are thoughtful...and far from obvious. Soothing hypnotic tunes like "Hard
Knock Life," "Tumbling," and "Out of Sight" make
this album a smooth and entertaining spin... (Rating: 4++)
The Latin Project - Nueva Musica (CD, Electric
Monkey, Latin/pop/dance)
Nueva Musica is the highly satisfying debut album from The Latin
Project, which is the duo of Jez Colin and Matt Cooper.
Colin and Cooper are a good match for one another. Their love of Latin music
and their ability to infuse it with modern techno is quite appealing indeed.
This album was three years in the making...and features many guest artists
including Junno Homorich, Katia Moraes, Freddie Crespo,
Robbie Nevil, and more. This music might best be described as world
dance music, as it incorporates sounds and ideas from a variety of sources
from all over the world. We are intrigued by how well these men merge traditional
sounds with modern electronics. Instead of sounding schizophrenic...the
overall sound is quite natural and inviting. Smooth danceable cuts include
"Lei Lo Lai," "Universal," "Windows," and
"Rio Negro." Cool stuff. (Rating: 4+++)
The Larkins - The Larkins (CD, Audium
/ Koch, Country/pop)
The debut album from East Tennessee sisters The Larkins. Even though
they've just begun, this duo (Shaunna and Tina Larkin) is
already making major waves in the world of country music. Of course, the
sisters' initial burst onto the scene has not been hampered by the fact
that Dolly Parton makes a guest appearance on their first single
("Steady As The Rain"). Support from the pro teams at Audium and
Koch isn't likely to hamper the sisters' career either...nor should the
fact that their music is refreshingly sincere and vibrant. Shaunna and Tina
are young (21 and 19 respectively)...and their youthful enthusiasm about
their music comes through loud and clear. These girls' talent is impressive
enough on their more upbeat material...but we prefer the softer and more
pensive songs. A case in point is "I Still Believed You Loved Me,"
a beautifully moving piece which showcases the sisters' vocal abilities.
Most surely destined to be major contenders, The Larkins have certainly
started off by putting their best feet forward. (Rating: 5++)
Les
Sans Culottes - Full Frontal Crudite: Live
in Paris (CD, DCN, Rock/pop)
Les Sans Culottes is a New York-based band playing a peculiar brand
of humorous French pop satire. The names of the band members offer a good
indication of what these folks are all about: Morris Chevrolet, Prof.
Harry Covert, Celine Dijon, Clermont Ferrand, Kit Kat Le Noir, Cal D'Hommage,
and Jean-Luc Retard. As the title suggests, Full Frontal Crudite
was recorded live. It captures the creative spirit and often hilarious energy
of a group of folks who are obviously--first and foremost--doing what they
do for pure enjoyment. The band's music is basic upbeat garage rock with
the most unique feature being that the lyrics are sung in French. It is
obvious from the goings on that both the audience and the band had a great
time during this particular performance. The band has a fresh spontaneous
sound that is instantly likable...and the female vocalists add just the
right touch of realism to the proceedings. This album was released courtesy
of the folks at DCN, a label which concentrates on releasing a wealth of
live music performances. (Rating: 4+++)
Margo - The Catnap (CD, Tsk!
Tsk!, Electronic pop)
Smart and absorbing electronic pop. Margo creates music that is simple,
subtle, smooth, and slightly trippy. In some ways, the band's soft electronic
pop compositions remind us of a more restrained (and less bubblegummy) Joy
Electric. Though there is a slight "loopy" sound to some of
the electronics, Margo is by no means cute nor a joke. Instead, these French
folks' music is a light and airy affair featuring wonderfully breathy female
vocals and slightly unusual sounds that are rather peculiar and striking.
Interestingly, the band wrote, composed, and produced the entire album themselves
in their home studio. The results are impressive to say the least. These
slick pieces are anything but commercial...although they very well might
appeal to a large audience just the same (if they had the right exposure,
of course). Margo is Jean-Francois (electronics, guitars), Melanie
(keyboards, vocals), Jerome (bass), and Caspar (their cat).
It isn't obvious exactly what Caspar's role is in the band...but the other
members love him just the same. This beautiful and captivating album features
"La Baumette," "Warm," "Sifits," "Luminous,"
and "Le Bal." (Rating: 5++)
The
Meeting Places - Find Yourself Along the
Way (CD, Words On Music,
Dreamy progressive soft pop)
The Meeting Places is/are Arthur Chan (bass), Chase Harris
(guitar, vocals), Scott McDonald (guitar), and Dean Yoshihara
(drums). This Los Angeles-based band formed in 2001 with their mission being
to create epic, droning dreampop. On Finding Yourself Along the Way...the
mission is accomplished. Appropriately released on the intriguing Words
On Music label, the album presents the band in fine form. These subtle pieces
are characterized first and foremost by heady and thick guitar work. In
overall tone and method, the hypnotic cuts on this album remind us of a
more restrained and pensive Spiritualized. The music is slow and
determined...and trance-like in nature. Interestingly, the band's vocals
remind us of early Starflyer 59. Intriguing drone pop with a difference.
Includes "Freeze Our Stares," "Same Lies As Yesterday,"
and "Turned Over." (Rating: 4++++)
Melomane - Solresol (CD, Vermillion Music, Progressive pop)
The second full-length release from New York's Melomane. Resolvo,
the band's debut album, created quite a buzz. Solresol is bound to
receive the same reaction, as it features more inventive and unusual pop
with a uniquely cool slant. Melomane tunes are not obvious. The band composes
material that is strangely different...yet intertwined with enough familiar
threads to make for an easy and smooth listen. The band consists of Pierre
de Gaillande, Daria Klotz, Frank Heer, Quentin Jennings,
Kenny Savelson, and Jesse Neuman. Not surprisingly, the band's
music has a French flavor (de Gaillande was born in France, you see...).
The twelve tracks on Solresol present this band's multifacted nature...making
it difficult to draw comparisons. Soothing, complex...and very intriguing.
Includes "Complicated Melody," "The Fighting Guitars,"
"The Cruise," and "Buddha Statue." (Rating: 5++)
The
Mitchells - Hear Where You Are (CD,
Pigeon, Pop/rock)
Most albums can be digested in a listen or two. We had to spin Hear Where
You Are several times before finally coming to some conclusions about
it. First, and possibly most importantly, The Mitchells don't really
sound much like other bands. There are similarities, sure...but their overall
approach and sound is rather unique. Second, the guys in this band sing
like men. (Note that this does not mean they scream and yell and make
horrible noises like many men.) Third, these guys write memorable songs
and they play them with completely genuine enthusiasm. The accompanying
press release gave us a hint that this would be an intriguing album, as
it was recorded and mixed by Thom Monahan. Perhaps the best way to
describe the band's sound would be to say that they sound something like
a cross between My Dad Is Dead and The Feelies (the former
because of the deep vocals and the latter because of the crazy guitars).
The arrangements are particularly unusual. Instead of merely slamming out
chords and playing a steady beat...these guys' music can be downright quirky
and kinda jerky...slightly spastic in a nice rocking kinda mental way. Ten
cuts including "Our TV Theme," "Stakeout," "Home
Build Kit," and "Prefab." A credible and cool album. (Rating:
5++)
Mya - Moodring (CD, A&M,
Soul/pop)
Wonderfully addictive modern soul pop. Moodring is the third full-length
release from Mya. This beautifully attractive young lady has been
turning a lot of heads lately...and this album is likely to further ignite
her career. Unlike many modern soul artists who infect their music with
the horrid threads of rap and hip-hop...for the most part, Mya and her associates
keep their music clean and pure...utilizing many elements from early soul
music and fusing them with modern technology. The end result is an upbeat
and danceable sound that is inviting and very easy on the ears. Of course,
Mya's super smooth and sexy vocals are the focal point of the music. She
sings with a natural ease that brings the listener dead center into her
musical universe. A slick album that (thankfully) proves soul/pop is continuing
to make a major resurgence in the United States. Cool tracks include "My
Love is Like...Wo," "Sophisticated Lady," "After the
Rain," and "Whatever Bitch." Track that would have been better
left off: "Why You Gotta Look So Good?" (Rating: 4++)
My Name Is Timmy
Hello. My name is Timmy and I have a dog named Timmy. My mother is named
Timmy and my father is named Timmy. We also have a parakeet that is named
Timmy. My teacher at school is named Timmy and my best friend is named Timmy.
The flowers in the garden behind our house are named Timmy and so are the
trees. When I can't sleep at night, I try to remember my name...but sometimes
it is so easy to forget. Who am I? Where do I live? Where do I come from?
If there is a reason for everything, then there must surely be no reason
for anything. I don't believe in anything. My name is Timmy...and I don't
give a goddamn about my crummy fingers. (Rating: 1)
New
Bethel - Inside the Blue Vera (CD EP,
Kittridge, Pop)
New Bethel is Molly Williams (organ, bass, vocals), Aaron
Buckley (guitar, vocals), and Charles Maxey (drums). Begun in
the summer of 1999 as a recording project, the band is now touring and releasing
their music in hopes of gaining a larger audience. Inside the Blue Vera
should help the band in their mission...as it presents six fresh and clever
pieces that fall outside the boundaries of normal underground pop. Instead
of playing noisy alternative rockers or sugary sweet alternapop...these
folks instead opt to blend all kinds of ideas and sounds into their own
unique concoction. The result is a highly entertaining sound that draws
on few obvious influences...yet remains accessible nonetheless. Some pieces
involve little or no vocals...instead allowing the band to present their
(almost jazzy) instrumental abilities. Intriguing stuff. Includes "The
Great Decline," "The Ticket," and "Over the Counter."
(Rating: 4+++)
The New Normal - The Sprightly Sound of The New Normal (CD-R, Mallard Pointe Sound Recordings,
Pop/rock)
How could we not love The New Normal...? Featuring Mike Ritt
(of Shades of Al Davis) and the original ripping rhythm section from
The Young Fresh Fellows (Jim Sangster and Tad Hutchison)...The
New Normal is a band full of underground superstars. Hell, even Scott
McCaughey, Chris Ballew, and Conrad Uno make guest appearances
on some of the tracks. Recorded over the course of two weekends in Seattle,
this album is a spontaneous ball of melodic fun. Nothing difficult or atonal
here. As the title suggests, these tunes are totally upbeat and..."sprightly."
Ritt wrote all the songs with the exception of "We Are Carloadbuyers"
(co-written with Tad) and "Keep Searchin'" by Del Shannon.
Purely infectious tunes like "Your Damn Uncle," "Chez Me,"
"Never Never Man" (ahhh...beautiful!), and "The King of Goretex"
make this album a wonderfully entertaining experience. Great driving music.
(Rating: 5)
Paloalto - Heroes and Villians (CD, American
Recording Company, Pop)
If you enjoyed the softer side of Queen on their first few albums...chances
are you'll go apeshit over Heroes and Villians. Bandleader James
Grundler has a voice that one could almost mistake for Freddie Mercury
at any given point in time. This, the album's second full-length album,
is a wonderfully entertaining ride through the modern world of slick melodic
pop. Produced by Rick Rubin, the album is like a finely detailed
painting. The songs...already strong on their own merits...benefit from
the intricate arrangements and obvious attention to detail. While Paloalto
tunes most certainly have the potential to make lots of money for those
involved with their projects...in reality, the band is putting their music
first...creating credible, memorable tunes that will sound good years from
now. Uplifting tunes include "The World Outside," "Going
Going Gone," "Sleeping Citizens," and "Seed." Smart
catchy pop for thinking listeners. (Rating: 4+++)
Patriotism
All the lonely idiots...proudly displaying how much they love their country.
The retarded and the meek clamor...waving flags of artificial power...trying
hard to get along...all the while hating one another from across their lawns.
The patriotism grows like a tumor at a picnic...making ticks grow larger.
The power of nothing becomes gratuitous. Something inside the stupid people
makes them babble about everything that gets loafed by the media...while
their pathetic families shit and crumple up papers. Throw them in the wastebasket.
The ugly and the stupid and the dumbest of the dumb...get all worked up
and become more irritating with every passing day. It is best to ignore
everyone in every little way...than to respond to the retards we pass by
every day.
Pedal
Steel Transmission - The Angel of the Squared
Circle (CD, Cardboard
Sangria, Progressive pop/rock)
Depthy music from a band whose name adequately describes their sound. Pedal
Steel Transmission is a Chicago-based quartet with a difference. Instead
of striving for one image or sound...they successfully intertwine many.
The band's music does, in fact, cover so much territory...that it is quite
difficult to describe. Listening to the tunes on The Angel of the Squared
Circle is like looking into a kaleidoscope. Reality becomes distorted...sounds
mirror themselves in unusual ways...and the listener eventually becomes
hypnotized by the band's cool inventive sound. The only problem these fellows
may encounter is that their music may be too complex for the average listener...possibly
limiting their audience to a small underground cult. That may or may not
be a problem for the band. In our minds, artistic success is the ultimate...and
these gentlemen have already achieved that. This is a wonderful album. The
progressive and unpredictable tunes are entertaining and thought provoking...and
they honestly don't sound like anyone else. That's a mighty big accomplishment
in and of itself. Wildly creative tunes here include "Waiting,"
"Amy," "Breakin Windows Everywhere," and "Silent
Like Hands." Excellent sound quality throughout. (Rating: 5+)
Pia Fraus - Plastilina (CD EP, Clairecords,
Pop)
Pia Fraus is a young Estonian group who have managed to impress the
critics in a short amount of time. In Solarium, the band's 2002 album,
was hailed by many as a pop masterpiece. Plastilina is a not a new
release, but rather a collection of tracks culled from the band's debut
album Wonder What Its Like. One composition ("Deep Purple Girl")
was re-recorded for this EP...and a hidden bonus track is also included
(a "sanfu remix" of "Summer Before Spring"). Plastilina
features wonderfully refreshing upbeat pop that accentuates this band's
flair for writing catchy tunes and presenting them with style. This EP is
undoubtedly intended to whet folks' appetite for the band's next full-length.
(Rating: 5)
The
Potomac Accord - In One-Hundred Years the
Prize Will Be Forgotten (CD, First
Flight, Progressive pop)
Subtle, understated progressive pop with an epic feel. In One-Hundred
Years the Prize Will Be Forgotten is the second full-length release
from The Potomac Accord. The band blends piano, bass, drums, and
guitar into their own unique brand of unpredictable...and slightly obtuse...pop
music. In terms of volume, these folks are varied. At times the band is
unusually slow and soft...and at other times, the proceedings become quite
loud and intense. Overall, however, The Potomac Accord is a restrained affair...concentrating
on song composition, lyrics, and keeping things simple. In an era where
too many bands are competing for an unknown prize, these folks don't seem
to be in it for the sake of competition. Their tunes are, instead, obviously
coming from the heart...and being played with sincerity and conviction.
There are no catchy hooks...no funny and unusual studio tricks...and no
attempt to overwhelm the listener with cleverness or cuteness. These mature
tunes have an overall serious tone that is peculiar and strangely inviting.
Cool cuts include "A Quiet White Cut by the Longest Blue Shadows,"
"Sunset on the Empire," and "New Fallen Century." Wonderfully
obscure stuff that sounds even better with repeated spins. (Rating: 5)
Rebel Powers - Not One Star Will Stand the Night (CD, Strange
Attractors, Experimental/noise/abstract)
Rebel Powers consists of members of Acid Mothers Temple, Telstar
Ponies, and Mainliner. That fact alone should give some indication
of what this band is all about. Not One Star Will Stand the Night
is a peculiar album. There are only two tracks ("We Are For the Dark,"
"Our God is a Mighty Fortress")...but they are long (each clocks
in at well over 20 minutes). These compositions are experimental spacey
drones of eerie noise...recorded in such a way that they often seem to resemble
identifiable music. This material was recorded in 1998...but is only now
seeing the light of day (probably due to currently increased underground
interest in Acid Mothers Temple). Produced by Toby Robinson, this
is one obtuse little disc...expanding the boundaries of music...and exploring
the possibilities of dreamy subconsciousness. Slightly unsettling... (Rating:
4+++)
The
Robot Ate Me - They Ate Themselves (CD,
Swim Slowly, Progressive
pop)
A unusual band...and an unusual album. Although it may take many spins to
get into, They Ate Themselves is a powerful body of work well worth
the time and energy. More than any other band, San Diego's The Robot
Ate Me is coming from the same general direction as Radial Spangle
(one of the most underappreciated yet incredible bands of the 1990s). The
tunes on this album are anything but obvious. Rather than slamming
out samey hooks and punching the listener in the face with familiar sounds...these
guys instead opt to create perplexing and confusing compositions that arouse
the curiosity of their listeners. The track "What We Thought Was Fog"
has to be heard to be believed. It is a peculiar yet gripping piece with
strange emotion that cannot be defined. In addition to intriguing and mind-numbing
melodies...this band gets major bonus points for their lyrics. Instead of
the same old generic dribble that most bands pass off for lyrics...these
guys come up with funny and perplexing words that are as entertaining as
they are thought provoking. Despite the overwhelming number of albums coming
out every week...on this planet, creativity still remains rare. It is difficult
to pinpoint exactly what it is that makes The Robot Ate Me so appealing...but
they most definitely are a hearty and meaty treat for the mind and ears.
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
The
Sabians - Shiver (CD, The
Music Cartel, Progressive rock)
Formed by ex-Sleep guitarist Justin Marler and drummer Chris
Hakius, this San Francisco band doesn't sound like the rest. The
Sabians have a mature, progressive sound that is characterized by intelligent
guitar work and highly concentrated rhythms. The band has a heady sound
that goes all over the place...making it very difficult to draw comparisons
or come up with possible influences. Sabian tunes are not obvious...but
are, instead, moody and mysterious. The tunes on Shiver range from
loud rock to restrained...all the while retaining cool threads of intelligence.
The only comparison that we can come up with here is to say that this band's
music sounds something like Lou Barlow's Folk Implosion. Plenty
of good quality stuff here, including "Sixteen-Forty," "Cannibal
Machine," "Bullet," and "Broken Circle." Pity that
more bands can't strike an original chord the way these guys can. Highly
original and yet strangely accessible. Great stuff. (Rating: 5)
Sentridoh - Lou B's Wasted Pieces (CD, Shrimper / Revolver USA, Pop/rock)
Whether recording under the names Sebadoh, Sentridoh, or Folk
Implosion...one thing is certain. Lou Barlow always entertains.
Lou B's Wasted Pieces is a collection of old recordings Barlow originally
released in the early 1990s (much of which was only available on audio cassette).
These pieces have been remastered...transforming them from low fidelity
to something much more listenable (i.e., the sound quality has been improved
greatly). As one would expect with such a release, this is a real hodge
podge of material. Some are experimental pieces...while others sound almost
clean enough to appear on current Folk Implosion releases. What impresses
us most about Barlow is that...even when he's just tampering around by himself
with an acoustic guitar...his music possesses a strange quality that is
difficult to describe...but infinitely absorbing. There's a lot to digest
here...31 cuts in all. While this is probably most appealing to completists...in
our minds, this collection of music is astoundingly good...especially considering
the limited audience it was originally intended for. Featuring some good,
some great, and some...rather incredible cuts...Lou Barlow's Wasted Pieces
are anything but a waste of time... (Rating: 5)
South - With the Tides (CD, Kinetic,
Progressive pop/rock)
Swirling, epic, progressive pop/rock. With the Tides is the second
full-length release from Britain's South. Though this band is a trio
(consisting of Joel Cadbury, Jamie McDonald, and Brett
Shaw)...their sound is thick, full, and very B-I-G. This could be due,
in part, to the influence of producer Dave Eringa, who has also produced
the bands Manic Street Preachers, Idelwild, and Ash.
Needless to say, this is a highly polished and heavily produced album. Fortunately,
the band writes material that is strong enough to weather all the overdubs
and sometimes busy arrangements. Some of these pieces are beautiful...particularly
"Colours in Waves," "Loosen Your Hold," and "Nine
Lives"...which feature the band's more introspective, restrained side.
This trio's music ranges from accessible and direct...to rather abstract
and (at times) unpredictable. With a bit less emphasis on unnecessary studio
polish...South's compositions would be even stronger. Solid stuff. (Rating:
4++)
Starbag
- Starbag (CD, Happy Happy Birthday
To Me, Pop)
Light, airy, hummable pop with a slight hint of country. Some of the songs
on this album remind us of some of Harry Nilsson's very early material...although
the overall tone is more loose and fluid...and based around guitars rather
than keyboards. The songs are snappy, smart, highly melodic, and tend to
stick in the brain like glue. The guys in Starbag call El Paso, Texas
their home...but they don't sound like other Texas bands. This is a short
album consisting of only eight songs. But when the material is this good...the
length of the album is irrelevant. The sparse arrangement are an integral
part of this band's sound. Moving pieces like "I Just Can't Wait,"
"I'm So Tired," "My Way Back Home," and "Give Me
A Place" make this album a pleasant and entertaining spin. Real catchy
stuff. (Rating: 5)
Toshak
Highway vs. Sianspheric - Magnetic Morning / Aspirin Age (Split Double CD EP set,
Sonic Unyon Recording Company,
Pop)
We've seen split CDs before where a CD contains songs from two bands...but
this is the first time we've seen a split CD that contains two complete
and separate CD EPs by two different bands. An interesting idea...made even
more interesting by the music contained on these two discs. On the first
disc, Toshak Highway present five slightly moody pop pieces that
are highly melodic and well produced. This is the third release for this
project (spearheaded by Adam Franklin of Swervedriver)...and
it offers more solid proof of what a great songwriter this man is. His side
projects all seem to be superior to Swervedriver releases (!). The second
disc features five tunes by Sianspheric...a band with a more obtuse
and abstract view of the world. This is their fifth release. Sianspheric
tunes are strangely haunting and leave a marked impression. They might best,
perhaps, be termed as epic mood music (?). This is a groovy l'il double
EP set...featuring two underground bands whose music is more than worth
the price of admission. (Rating: 5)
Tsurubami - Gekkyukekkaichi (CD, Strange
Attractors, Ambient/drone/psychedelic)
Tsurubami is Emi Nobuko (drums), Kawabata Makoto (guitar),
and Higashi Hiroshi (bass). Makoto and Hiroshi are also in the band
Acid Mothers Temple. As the title suggests, Gekkyukekkaichi
is a very strange album. Consisting of two lengthy pieces that were completely
improvised (with no overdubs added)...the album plays like a bizarre, distorted
soundtrack to a peculiar livid dream. Drums are used more for sound effect
than for rhythm. The guitar and bass seem to hover in unbridled Robert
Fripp territory...with heavy sustain and plenty of effects added to
heighten the hallucinogenic aspects of the music. This album is not for
everyone...nor was it meant to be. This trio is playing for a very select
audience...that esoteric audience seeking to enhance their consciousness
through music...while (most likely) getting high on something. Of course,
one needn't be high to appreciate this music. Instead, the music itself
can be used to induce a high (honestly!). Very trippy, very strange,
very hypnotic...this one is WEIRD. (Rating: 5)
Velvet
Crush - Free Expression (Expanded) (Double
CD, Action Musik, Pop)
Velvet Crush is one of the most satisfying pop bands on the planet.
Their music possesses a cool ethereal quality that gives the listener the
feeling that he/she is floating in the clouds. Free Expression was
originally released in 1999. The album has now been remastered and reissued
along with a bonus disc containing the original demonstration recordings.
The first disc (the "real" album) was co-produced by Matthew
Sweet, who also adds his playing and singing skills. This 14-song album
is an instant refresher course in positive melodic guitar pop. Cool guitars
and exceptionally heartfelt vocals literally bleed out of the speakers...infused
with so many hooks that the overall effect is heavenly intoxication. Powerful
tunes like "Kill Me Now," "Between the Lines," "Goin'
To My Head," "Gentle Breeze," and "On My Side"
make this album a true pop classic. The second disc of fourteen demos offers
a more personal glimpse of the music...not as slick and produced...yet still
mesmerizing and effective nonetheless. Paul Chastain and Ric Menck
are two of the most incredible pop songwriters around. Killer stuff...!
(Rating: 5+++)
Watashi
Wa - The Love of Life (CD, Tooth and Nail, Pop)
Wonderfully shimmering and uplifting music. Jangley pop may not be hip anymore...but
if word gets out about California's Watashi Wa, the entire genre
could see a major resurgence in the years ahead. The Love of Life
is the band's third full-length album and their first on the Tooth and Nail
label. Fans of pure pop are certain to flip over this one. These four guys
don't dabble in noise or experimental crap. Instead, their focus is on writing
and recording slick pop with superb melodies...using an ultra-direct approach.
This style might not work for every band...but when the material is this
good...everything just CLICKS. Love of Life contains twelve "oughta-be-hits"...and
each and every one rings true. For many bands, this little sucker would
be a "best of" collection (!). Pure feelgood cuts include "All
of Me," "With Love From Me to You," "Her Dress,"
and "Life is Beautiful." Great stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Denison Witmer - Recovered (CD, Fugitive
Recordings, Pop)
Recovered is an intriguing album consisting of covers of appropriate
and well-chosen tunes. Instead of picking obvious hits to cover...Denison
Witmer instead picks lesser known...and in most cases more credible...tunes
by well-known artists. The album begins with an astounding cover of Graham
Nash's "Simple Man"...which not only does the song justice...but
is also injected with enough original ideas to make it sound new again.
Witmer then proceeds to present nine more tunes, infusing them with his
own unique sound and vision. Particular standouts include a strangely easy
remake of Big Star's "Nightime" and a sparse and atmospheric
rendition of Carole King's "So Far Away." Cover albums
are usually dull and uninteresting...but this album is an exception to the
rule. In paying tribute to some of his favorite artists...Witmer proves
himself to be a thoughtful and gifted new artist. (Rating: 5)
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