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November 2005 Reviews by
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* babysue® Store * Donate * General Info * Links * LMNOP®
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November 2005 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
November 2005
Comment Piece:
The Beanie Baby Phenomenon: Past and Present
When Beanie Babies were all the rage, we hated the goddamn retarded little animals. Not only were they horribly overpriced, but the incredible excitement surrounding them was completely...nauseating. Yup, those were the days...when every teenage girl, every young woman, every middle-aged mom, and every grandmother wanted nothing more than to hoard and covet the dreaded Beanie Babies...stacking and storing them anywhere they possibly could. Stores couldn't keep them on shelves and lines of hypnotized customers waited eagerly outside to buy them. But times change and so do people...and nowadays Beanie Babies are discarded reminders of how everyone jumps on...and off...the bandwagon at the exact same time. Question: What is now thrown all over the place at yard sales that absolutely no one wants...? Answer: Beanie Babies.
A couple of months ago we were chatting with two nice ladies in Chattanooga, Tennessee who had tried all day long to sell their Beanie Babies at their yard sale...and no one would buy them. At that moment, we were suddenly struck with an idea. Now that no one wants them, this is the BEST TIME in the WORLD to start collecting them. Those nice ladies sold their entire Beanie Baby collection to us...for about four dollars. This is so cool, we thought...when you don't have to pay anything for 'em they actually are kinda cute. At that point, we decided that whenever we found absolutely perfect Beanie Babies complete with their tags that we would buy them...as long as we could get them for no more than a quarter each.
Over the next couple of weeks we weren't so surprised to find that most folks were ready and willing to sell last decade's treasures for a quarter each. So we happily scooped up even more Beanie Babies to add to our collection. But along the way we discovered something peculiar and startling. Some folks are still living in the clouded confusion of the media frenzy...and apparently they aren't about to sell their cherished treasures for next to nothing.
Possibly the most extreme example of this hostile type of yard sale coordinator was a middle-aged lady in Chattanooga. She and her friends were having a garage sale to make money to benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina. She had three Beanie Babies on a table that weren't priced. When we inquired about them, she turned around flashing her most genuine, friendly smile and said, "I was asking $5.00 each for them but just give me whatever you want and you can take them." Not thinking much about it, we responded by saying "Well, we usually pay a quarter each." You would have thought that we had pulled up the woman's skirt and rammed a red hot ice pick into her vagina. That seemingly nice, calm lady suddenly turned RED with RAGE. "A quarter?!? A QUARTER?!?" she said as she began to tremble slightly. Her voice got louder and then she began yellling, "I'm not selling these to you for a QUARTER! I'll donate them to a CHARITY before I sell them for a QUARTER!" We almost couldn't believe what we were seeing and hearing. After all, the idiotic woman had just told us that whatever we wanted to pay would be acceptable. We looked at her calmly and said, "Okay then, bye!" And then we left.
What on earth would cause one person to give away their treasures for virtually nothing...while others would be horribly OFFENDED by the very idea...? Stupidity is probably the answer. Folks with any brains realize that you aren't going to get much for Beanie Babies these days. Other less informed individuals who are still living in the media-induced frenzy apparently still think there are millions of people dying to get their hands on the little creatures.
We had a Beanie Baby climax of sorts this past weekend. We found ten of them at a yard sale in Decatur, Georgia. When we walked over to ask about the price, the lady said that they were $2.00 each. Immediately deciding to pass, we looked down and found...160 perfectly clean Beanie Babies laying in plastic crates...all of them looking terribly forgotten and lost. We felt a wave of hot lust rush through our veins. After chatting with the woman for a moment, she finally agreed to sell her entire collection for $40 (which comes out to about a quarter each). The nice teenagers at the yard sale were very helpful...giving us a large trash bag (how appropriate!) to carry them away and looking around the yard for any Babies that had gotten separated from the pack. It was such a beautiful day...we were truly in Beanie Baby heaven.
But as we drove away, we couldn't help but remember the Chattanooga woman's hostile rage..."I'm not selling these to you for a QUARTER! I'll donate them to a CHARITY before I sell them for a QUARTER!"
If only she knew how many people will.
These days Beanie Babies bring out the best...and the worst...in people.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Adrianne - Down To This (CD, Kufala,
Acoustic pop)
Only truly brave souls dare to record and release albums using only an acoustic
guitar and voice. Adrianne is not only up for the task, but she succeeds
with flying colors. Her songs are neither folk nor pop, but a unique combination
of the two. On Down To This (her fourth album), Adrianna presents
new recordings of three tunes from her last album (10,000 Stones)
as well as eight new songs. Despite the fact that these are stripped down
recordings, this young lady is remarkably focused and never falters. Vocals
are the real draw here, as Adrianna's voice is extraordinarily personal
and effective. This might be even more impressive when you consider the
fact that she had a body tumor removed from her throat a few years back
that--at the time--left her with nothing more than a whisper. Some of the
tracks on this album are slightly reminiscent of 1990s folkster Kristen
Hall (who unfortunately never received the recognition she deserved).
Adrianna is certainly a strong new voice in the world of music, and Down
To This is a smashing success. Killer tunes include "Shout It Out,"
"Symmetry," "Rocks and Water," and "Shooting Star."
(Rating: 5+)
Lynn Anderson - Live at the Renaissance Center (DVD, Music
Video Distributors)
Though it may be hard to believe, this is the first concert ever
taped specifically for DVD release by country superstar Lynn Anderson.
In this show which was taped at the Renaissance Center in Dickson, Tennessee
in 2004, Lynn and her band present sixteen of her favorite songs. Anderson's
strong, husky vocals still sound fantastic as she belts them out for a rather
subdued but appreciative crowd. There are some great bits of dialogue too...like
when Lynn introduces "What A Man My Man Is" by telling the audience
that her ex-husband/ex-producer used to write songs for her to sing that
were mainly about what a great man she was married to (!). It is also interesting
to hear Ms. Anderson recall the true story of how "Ride, Ride, Ride"
came to be (written by her mother when she was very young). This is not
a perfect DVD. For some reason, the track numbers don't show up when you
switch from one to the next. There are also a few segments where the sound
doesn't seem to be correctly synched to the video. But the overall vibe
is so strong here that these minor problems don't really matter. Live
at the Renaissance Center is a great piece of history...capturing Lynn
in concert in all her glory. In addition to the concert, this disc also
features an interview, a biography, a discography, a slide show, and web
links. Highlights include "Faithless Love," "Someday Soon,"
"Ride, Ride, Ride," and of course, "Rose Garden." (Rating:
5)
Terry
Anderson and the Olympic Ass-Kickin Team -
Terry Anderson and the Olympic Ass-Kickin Team (CD, Double Naught,
Pop/rock)
Good solid pop/rock from Raleigh, North Carolina-based Terry Anderson
and the Olympic Ass-Kickin Team. This is a really slick little album
that, if marketed with some bucks, could catch on in a big way with a mighty
big crowd. Unlike a lot of underground bands, these five fellows play accessible
music. Each song sounds like it could be a hit...and they're all delivered
with such positive energy and style that you can't help but be affected.
The songs are catchy and simple, and seasoned with intelligent hooks and
excellent lyrics. Instant classics include "Can't Get the One You Want,"
"You Know Me," "Raindrops," "Check Please,"
and "Rehab." The disc is packaged in a beautiful digipak sleeve
and includes a mini-poster with lyrics on the back. Great music from a great
band. (Rating: 5+)
Askeleton - (Happy) Album (CD, Goodnight,
Pop/rock)
The third album in Askeleton's trilogy . The first two albums were
entitled Sad Album and Angry Album (or Psychic Songs).
(Happy) Album is somewhat of a departure for the band and songwriter
Knol Tate...as this is a group endeavor (the band was originally
a one-man project). The change in approach has its positives and negatives.
On the positive side, the music has a much nicer flow...which should make
the music more accessible to a larger number of listeners. On the negative
side...Askeleton has lost some of its uniqueness in the process. (Happy)
Album is a good spin, full of cool melodic pop numbers. But while it
sounds very nice, we can't help but miss the more obtuse sounds we heard
on Angry Album. It would be nice if Tate could merge the two worlds
on the next album...retaining his quirky eccentricities while taking a more
conventional approach. In the meantime...(Happy) Album is sure to
please fans and keep folks interested... (Rating: 4+++)
BAG - BAG (CD, Sanctuary / Simmons, Pop/rock)
BAG is the first new album to be released on Gene Simmons'
music label in over a decade. BAG is a one-man-band originally from
South America but now residing in Canada. His tunes recall Prince
at times but only slightly. This album sounds nothing like a one-man affair.
The songs are tight...infused with heaping helpings of modern technology
and focused to infinity with complex arrangements. But in the end it is
BAG's songs themselves and his superbly effective vocals that make his music
such a treat. There's something for everyone here. There are harsh abrasive
rockers, dance tracks, and even some light pop numbers. While BAG himself
says that his "music is not mainstream"...he may very well be
surprised to find how many people will be eagerly seeking it out and scooping
it up. Really groovy stuff with positive vibes. Top picks: "Uh Uh Uh
Uh," "Blown Away," "Love Is What You Make It,"
"Ballad of Johnny Eunuch." (Rating: 5)
The
Bellrays - @ The Barfly (DVD, Punkervision / Music
Video Distributors)
We have been big fans of The Bellrays for years...but in all those
years we had never managed to see the band perform until now. Wow. Wow.
Wowwwww... The Bellrays once again prove that they are one of the
best goddamn bands in the world. Captured live in a sizzling hot show at
The Barfly in London, these four individuals are absolutely on fire...putting
on a mesmerizing and intense show at this small club. Lisa Kekaula,
Tony Fate, Robert Vennum, and Craig Waters put out
so much energy in this performance that you'll have to see it to believe
it. For those unfamiliar with the band, The Bellrays play a unique blend
of punk, rock, and soul...all spun together and spewed out with such intensity
that you can't help but be affected by it. There's not another band on earth
like 'em...and this concert is pure proof of this fact. Fate, Vennum, and
Waters play their instruments like the earth is about to end (bringing to
mind The MC5 and The Ramones)...while vocalist Lisa Kekaula
provides the jarring and intense soul that propels the group up, up, up
into the sky and beyond. Kekaula is quite possibly the best soul/rock vocalist
of the twenty-first century. She screams, she whispers, she howls, she preaches...all
of the while shaking her thing in a tight black dress that accentuates her
every move. The lady is pure dynamite. She's big and she's sexy...and
she's purely magnetic in every way imaginable. There are so many highlights
in this concert that it would be difficult to list 'em all, but we were
particularly impressed by "Voodoo Train," "Pay the Cobra,"
"Street Corner," "Some Confusion City," "Revolution
Get Down," and "Startime." These folks should already be
incredibly famous. But things being as they are (the public at large
has shitty taste)...The Bellrays are still a cult band. But the cult
continues to grow each and every year as new converts convert others...who
convert others...who convert others... In our world, these folks are already
big stars. They've got the goods and they DELIVER. Highly recommended. (Rating:
6++)
Tab Benoit, et al. - VOW: Voice of
the Wetlands (CD, Rykodisc,
Blues/cajun/pop)
This album features the talents of Tab Benoit, Big Chief Monk
Boudreaux, Dr. John, Cyril Neville, Anders Osborne,
George Porter, Jr., Johnny Vidacovich, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone,
and Waylon Thibodeaux. When these folks got together in January 2005
to record these tunes to raise awareness about the destruction of Louisiana's
wetlands, they had no way of knowing how severe the destruction would soon
be. Hearing this music now is an eerie experience. Hurricane Katrina made
everyone suddenly jump on the bandwagon to assist the folks of Louisiana...but
these folks had already gotten the ball rolling months in advance. As such,
their message is more important now than ever before. But what makes this
CD such a treat is not the idea behind the music...but rather the music
itself. This all-star band recorded eleven tracks that capture the heart
and spirit of Louisiana...incorporating all the great musical elements of
the region. Top picks: "Bayou Breeze," "Clean Water,"
"Weary Silent Night," "We Make a Good Gumbo," and "Me
Donkey Want Water." (Rating: 5)
Big
Star - In Space (CD, Rykodisc,
Pop)
The first new Big Star studio album in...30 years (!). In addition
to original members Alex Chilton and Jody Stephens, the band
also includes Posies members Jon Auer and Ken Stringfellow.
While some folks may be disappointed to find that In Space sounds
markedly different from the original Big Star, those with an open mind are
likely to find a lot to love here. Before hearing this album, Big Star fans
should take into account the fact that three decades have passed.
As a result, things are bound to sound different. What all four of
these folks have in common is that they were either a part of--or were deeply
affected by--the music of the original Big Star. That connection is what
brought these folks together. Fresh, honest, hummable modern pop tunes are
the result. While some songs recall the band's 1970s sound, others are much
more modern. Over the course of twelve tunes, these folks make it clear
that they are determined to keep the spirit of Big Star alive...and that
is a very good thing. Top picks: "Dony," "Lady Sweet,"
"February's Quiet," "Hung Up With Summer," "Do
You Wanna Make It." (Rating: 5+)
Bright - Bells Break Their Towers (CD, Strange
Attractors, Abstract pop)
Unusual and spontaneous. Bright is the duo of Mark Dwinell
and Joe Labrecque. The tunes on Bells Break Their Towers sound
something like sound loops. Songs begin with one theme or idea and then
fold and duplicate until things draw to a close. Recorded spontaneously
in the studio, these compositions sound like pop mutations. Dreamy and hypnotic,
the tracks are more like mood pieces than actual songs. Eight lengthy treats
here...with the shortest ("Receiver") being 4:29 and the longest
(the title track) clocking in at 12:16. Simultaneously trippy, soothing,
and peculiar...Dwinell and Labrecque have created an album that sounds like
no other. Meaty treats include "Manifest Harmony," "Flood,"
"Bells Break Their Towers," and "Night." Intriguing.
(Rating: 5)
Charlemagne - Detour Allure (CD, SideCho,
Pop)
Charlemagne is Carl Johns. Detour Allure, Johns' second
album, is somewhat of a departure from his debut. Whereas he sang and played
everything the first time around, Detour Allure finds Carl enlisting
help and ideas from others. The result is...a more focused, polished, and
well-rounded batch of pop tunes. Charlemagne songs are soft and direct.
Carl's songs recall classic artists from the past like The Beach Boys,
Harpers Bizarre, and Big Star. While there are many differences
between this disc and the first album, the most noticeable difference is
the quality of the songs themselves. Detour Allure is a much more
straightforward adventure. The tunes are willfully catchy and upbeat and
could easily be digested by the general public. Features eleven soothing
tunes including "Greyhound," "Your Scars," "I Heard
Something," "Tell Me," and "Hello September." Recommended
for fans of Denison Witmer. (Rating: 5+)
Eagle*Seagull - Eagle*Seagull (CD, Paper
Garden, Pop/rock)
Being big fans of Johnny Society, we were instantly drawn into the
music of Nebraska's Eagle*Seagull. While the two bands' tunes are
similar in many ways, they are also unique and stand on their own merits.
The main similarity is the voice. Eli Mardock has a voice that is
eerily similar to Johnny Society's Kenny Siegel...so similar, in
fact, that you might very easily mistake one for the other. Similarities
aside, Eagle*Seagull is--simply put--a truly credible band with truly credible
songs. Released on the Nashville-based Paper Garden label, this is one impressive
debut...chock full of intelligent songs with cool arrangements. Classy tracks
include "Lock and Key," "Hello, Never," "Last Song,"
and "Ballet or Art." Excellent from start to finish. (Rating:
5)
Friends of Dean Martinez - Lost Horizon (CD, Aero Recordings,
Instrumental)
We have never heard an album from Friends of Dean Martinez that we
didn't love. The band now consists of Bill Elm (steel guitar), Mike
Semple (guitar), and Andrew Gerfers (drums). On Lost Horizon,
the trio continues keeping their standards high while providing their listeners
with more brilliant stream-of-consciousness instrumentals. Elms' steel guitar
playing sounds stranger and more hallucinogenic as time goes by, which may
explain why Horizon just may be the band's best album yet. FODM tunes
have always sounded moody and peculiar, but possibly never as much as they
do on this release. These tunes are simultaneously calming and thought provoking...produced
to perfection...and mentally perplexing. Nine compositions for thinking
individuals. Incredibly effective music, highly stylized, and highly recommended...
(Rating: 6+)
The
Go! Team - Thunder, Lightning, Strike
(CD, Columbia, Pop/rock)
As the first tune ("Panther Dash") blasted out of our speakers,
we were starting to really dig this group's sound...but as the album progressed,
"scratching" and crap-hop entered the equation...and we just had
to take the damn thing OUT of the player and toss it. Too bad. (Not
rated)
Helloween - Keeper of the Seven Keys: The Legacy (German import/Double
CD, SPV USA, Rock)
Beginning with an introductory track ("The King For A 1000 Years")
that would make Spinal Tap proud, the guys in Germany's Helloween
quickly kick into high gear on the double CD Keeper of the Seven Keys:
The Legacy. This album is somewhat of an extension of two of the band's
best albums from the late eighties (Keeper of the Seven Keys, Pt. 1
and Keeper of the Seven Keys, Pt. 2). These guys have been writing
and recording "smart metal" since they released their debut album
way back in 1985. Of all the metal bands on the planet, these guys probably
merge styles better than anyone. While the music has a definite edge, the
tunes on The Legacy are laced with classical and progressive pop
ingredients...which give the tunes a huge orchestral sound. Every musician's
contributions are essential to the overall sound...and they are all as tight
as holy hell on their instruments. Keeper of the Seven Keys was
obviously a labor of love. There's no telling how many hundreds of hours
were spent creating this opus. Monster hits include "Born on Judgment
Day," "Silent Rain," "Do You Know What You're Fighting
For," and "My Life For One More Day." Essential listening
for metal heads. (Rating: 5+)
Thea
Gilmore - Loft Music (CD, Compass, Pop)
A most impressive collection of well-chosen cover tunes. On Loft Music,
Britain's Thea Gilmore presents her own interpretations of songs
originally recorded by The Buzzcocks, Paul Westerberg, Credence
Clearwater Revival, The Ramones, Neil Young, Van Morrison,
Jimmy Cliff, Nigel Stonier, Gorney/Harburg, and Phil
Ochs. Recording material by such a diverse group of artists might seem
like an undaunting task...but Thea makes it seem as if the project required
no effort at all. These smooth and effective covers show just how focused
Ms. Gilmore is...and also shed some light on who has influenced her music
over the years. Of particular interest are "Ever Fallen in Love"
(a particularly smooth interpretation), "Bad Moon Rising" (a folk
version), "Don't Come Close" (even poppier than the original),
"Crazy Love" (particularly haunting and beautiful), and "When
I'm Gone." Another brilliant album from one of England's finest...
(Rating: 5+)
Imogene - Imogene (CD, Intrepid, Groove pop)
Imogene is a groovy band. These four gentlemen play melodic pop music
infused with cool doses of R&B and psychedelia. Instead of sounding
like any one band in particular, the tunes on Imogene sound like
a hybrid of hundreds of other artists. Ultimately, however, this band manages
to create their own sound by channeling their energies toward one common
goal...to make quality music. The vocals are subdued and low in the mix...giving
the songs a strange--almost creepy--sound. Fuzzy guitars and funky keyboards
support melodies that glide by effortlessly...while the rhythm section keeps
things steadily on track. This album may not blow you away immediately...but
it will almost certainly grow on you over time. Neat cuts include "Sunny
Day Child," "Dark Room," "Wasteoids," "Death,"
and "Slow Dive." (Rating: 4++++)
Invisible - Invisible (Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
The first thing that struck us about this release was the cover art. Invisible
is packaged in an incredibly beautiful triple-fold digipak sleeve featuring
a painting by Marty Schnapf.
The abstract painting is a good match for the music on the CD. Invisible
is Delaney Kelly, Chris Larson, and Zach Okun...three
Portland musicians who are taking a different approach to music. The trio
is heavily into visuals...incorporating them into their live performances.
The trio's tunes range from experimental to progressive pop. After spinning
this disc several times we still can't pick out any specific influences.
Whatever style of music these fellows play, however, they play it well.
This is smart progressive pop for thinking listeners. Twelve thought provoking
tracks including "Rows of Unbending Lines," "Not the Next
Anything," and "Far Too Clean." (Rating: 5)
Kobi - Dronesyndrome (CD, Silber,
Experimental/instrumental)
Of all the experimental electronic artists of the twenty-first century,
Norway's Kobi just may be the best. The only other modern act that
we can compare them to is Sigur Ros. Dronesyndrome features
nine compositions that are wonderfully rich with atmosphere. It may be difficult
to recognize any familiar instruments as the folks in Kobi mutate and change
sounds and instruments to suit their needs. Recorded over a two year period,
this album was created by Kai Mikalsen, Fredrik Ness Sevendal,
Per Gisle Galaen, Kjell Olav Jorgensen, Petter Pogo,
Bjarne Larsen, Jon Birger Wormdahl, Tore H. Boe, and
Michael Duch. To the untrained ear, these recordings may sound like
abstract noodling. But more astute listeners will notice absorbing nuances
and intriguing subtleties laced into these tracks. True to the claim of
the accompanying press release, this album "sounds better the louder
and longer you listen to it." Mind blowing experiments...and they all
work. Includes "Faint Echoes Ran Round the Unseen Hall (Part
1)," "Anchored to a Central Core of Saturated Intensity,"
"The Existence of Another Goal" and more. Highly recommended.
(Rating: 6+)
Landing
- Brocade (CD, Strange
Attractors, Instrumental/progressive)
Although founding member Dick Baldwin has moved on, the members of
Landing move ahead. Baldwin chose synthesizer player Peter Baumann
to fill his shoes. The band's sound has evolved a great deal since their
earlier days on K Records. Brocade features five lengthy drony instrumentals.
Like other bands on the Strange Attractors label, these folks create their
music on-the-spot. As a result, these compositions sound something like
modern jazz instrumentals played on electronic instruments. The band members
create grooves and then use them as a canvass for creative noodling. This
moody hypnotic album sounds better the more you play it. Peculiar soothing
tracks include "Loft," "How To Be Clear," and "Music
For Three Synthesizers." Cool stuff. (Rating: 5)
LD
& The New Criticism - Tragic Realism
(CD, Darla, Pop)
The latest project from LD Beghtol who has previously released albums
under the names Flare, The Moth Wranglers, and The Three
Terrors. Most of Beghtol's previous projects were very slick and calculated
affairs...articulately recorded with acute attention to detail. LD &
The New Criticism is a band with a much looser sound and overall vibe...and
a much more obvious sense of humor. Lyrically, Mr. Beghtol has never been
more quick-witted, violent, and entertaining. True, there are lots of laughs
to be had while spinning Tragic Realism...but these tunes are definitely
not joke compositions. Companionship betrayal seems to have fueled
many of these songs and yet, while there are large rivers of sarcasm running
through this landscape, the music itself somehow maintains an upbeat aura.
Surviving defeat seems to be the main point here...and that is something
that all of us should learn as we go through life. The songs on Tragic
Realism have true substance...presenting the realities of the world
and the humor that is necessary in order to survive. Intelligent tracks
include "Elegy For An Ex-," "Apathy!", "Laughing
At You," "Too Old To Die Young," and "Unpaid Endorsement."
This is LD Beghtol's best work to date. Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Gretchen
Lieberum - Siren Songs (CD, Gogogerty
Music, Soft moody pop/female vocal)
More soft, soothing, pensive, moody pop from Gretchen Lieberum. Lieberum's
songs and voice recall the great vocalists from the 1940s and 1950s...an
era when people wanted music that was calming and relaxing. But don't expect
an old outdated sound, because Siren Songs is a slick modern recording...lightly
orchestrated and arranged to perfection. The instruments caress Lieberum's
smooth, absorbing voice throughout all eleven tracks, creating a truly rewarding
collection of soft pop compositions. In so many cases, the best artists
are those no one has ever heard of. Gretchen is definitely a case in point.
Siren Songs easily beats out 95 percent of what is being released
by major labels. Cool calming tracks include "Key Largo," "Opus,"
"Keep On Walking," "The Fall," and "Grace."
Beautiful music, well produced, and totally in focus. (Rating: 5+)
Lightning Bolt - Hypermagic Mountain (CD, Load,
Rock)
Lightning Bolt is an underground band in the truest sense. Begun
in 1995, the band has continually broken molds and charted their own territory.
Now nearly a decade later, the band's music is still raw, rough, and difficult.
Hypermagic Mountain is a thick and crazy spin. The tunes consist
of frenetic rhythms, out-of-control overdriven guitars, and distorted vocals
that are secondary to the music. Lightning Bolt could be compared to early
Butthole Surfers, as their music will almost certainly only capture
the hearts and minds of very young listeners. With so many underground bands
on the planet, it gets harder and harder to tell one from the other. These
guys stand out because their music is just so goddamn...intense and crazy.
Swell tracks include "2 Morro Morro Land," "Mega Ghost,"
"Bizarro Zarro Land," and "Infinity Farm" (love those
song titles)... (Rating: 4++++)
The
Mother Hips - Red Tandy EP (CD EP, Camera, Pop)
The Mother Hips are BACK. After the band took a break in 2001 many
thought that was the end. Fortunately, the band is back together writing
and recording the same kind of super melodic pop that has garnered them
so many fans over the years. Four tracks here: "Red Tandy," "Colonized,"
"Blue Tomorrow," and "Red Tandy (Alternate Version)."
The best news...is that here will be a brand new full-length in 2006. We
can't WAIT. (Rating: 5+)
Jay Nash - Some Kind of Comfort (CD, Kufala,
Pop)
Classic pop that most people have never heard...at least not yet.
Unlike most up-and-coming artists, Jay Nash isn't playing music that
is trendy nor modern. His words and music have depth and are timeless. Some
Kind of Comfort features the friendly kind of pop music that has been
popular on radio stations for decades. Nash's cool deep vocals and soaring
melodies are bound to keep his fans coming back for more. This album features
ten upbeat guitar pop tracks including "Eleanor," "Saturday,"
"Oogly Boogly," "Make Up Your Mind," and "High
on the Hill." Comforting and real. (Rating: 4++++)
Rosa Parks (Dull and uninteresting miscellaneous kind of thing)
Ding dong the witch is dead. (Rating: 1)
Wayne Peet Quartet - Live at Al's Bar (CD, pfMENTUM,
Jazz)
This appropriately-titled CD (recorded in 1999 at Al's Bar in Los Angeles)
features the talents of Wayne Peet (organ), Nels Cline (guitar),
Russell Bizzett (drums), and G.E. Stinson (guitar). This concert
captures the four as they present three lengthy improvisational compositions
("Five Swirls," "Five Doors," "Inner Funkdom").
The music crawls, swells, curls, and builds upon itself...often recalling
some of the more adventurous jazz/rock artists of the 1980s. Peet and Bizzett
provide the rhythmic foundation while guitarists Cline and Stinson go off
the deep end...much to the delight of the audience. These complex pieces
showcase the dynamic talents of these four individuals while providing quality
entertainment for the more involved jazz enthusiasts of the world. (Rating:
5)
Petracovich - We Are Wyoming (CD, Red Buttons,
Soft pop)
A couple of years ago we reviewed an intoxicating debut album (Blue Cotton
Skin) by Petracovich, whose real name is Jessica Peters
(the name was taken from her grandfather). The album was incredible, particularly
considering the fact that it was self-released. Jessica and her musical
partner Tad Wagner have returned
with We Are Wyoming. Cut from the same fabric as Blue Cotton Skin,
Wyoming is another soothing and incredible album that features Peters'
remarkable voice. Although still virtually unknown, this young lady is easily
one of the best vocalists of the twenty-first century. She has a
voice that is so smooth and effective that it rivals well-known artists
like Allison Kraus. The songs feature absorbing melodies that are
bathed in intricately crafted arrangements. Every once in a while an unknown
artist comes that totally blows us away. Petracovich started out on a high
note...and just keeps getting better. This mind-blowing album features fourteen
killer cuts including "Clair De Lune," "Telephone,"
"What If I Came To Get You?", "Paper Cup," "Dearly
Departed," and "We Are Wyoming." Beautiful stuff. Highly
recommended. (Rating: 6++)
Ray Price - Live at the Renaissance Center (DVD, Music
Video Distributors)
As of this date, this is the only full-length concert by Ray Price
to be made available to the public. Taped in the late 1980s but never-before-seen
until now, this concert presents the "Perry Como of country
music" at a later stage in his career. Nowadays a smooth crooner like
Price would probably be overlooked, but when this man's songs rocked the
charts decades ago people were truly moved by his soft and subdued demeanor.
Ray and his band present twelve tunes, all of which go over exceedingly
well with the audience. It is a shame that many of country music's greatest
artists of the past seem to be getting lost in peoples' memory banks. Thankfully,
the Live at the Renaissance Center DVD series is shining a light
on some of the greatest of the greats...which will hopefully turn younger
artists and fans onto the music that has so obviously influenced them. Includes
"San Antonio Rose," "Heartaches By The Number," "Help
Me Make It Through The Night," and "For The Good Times."
(Rating: 4+++)
The
Rakes - Retreat (CD, Dim
Mak, Rock/pop)
A fine little EP featuring six rockin' tracks. The fellows in Britain's
The Rakes make modern rock music that is eerily reminiscent of Wire
(the vocals sound almost identical) and Television Personalities.
Being big Wire fans for years, we couldn't help but be drawn into Retreat.
The band plays hard yet their music is obviously inspired by underground
pop. This, the band's American debut, is a strong release that showcases
their superb songwriting skills. Cool tunes like "Retreat," "Strasbourg,"
and "22 Grand Job" will no doubt whet most rock fans' appetites
for the next full-length release. Great stuff. (Rating: 5)
Kate
Rusby - The Girl Who Couldn't Fly (CD,
Compass, Folk)
There have always been sad fragments running through Kate Rusby's
music...but probably never as much as on the engrossing and emotionally
jarring album The Girl Who Couldn't Fly. In a very short amount of
time, young Kate has managed to rise to the top of her game. No other female
folk singer on the planet has a presence and a voice anywhere near as engrossing
and refreshing. Like previous albums, Fly contains a mixture of traditional
and original songs. While previous efforts have all been direct hits, there's
something even more absorbing and effective about The Girl Who Couldn't
Fly. It could be due to the song selection...or it could just be the
direct and uncanny honesty of the artist herself. Kate's cover of "You
Belong To Me" is so fantastic that it will bring tears to the eyes
of many. Other highlights include the beautiful melancholy "Moon Shadow,"
the intricately arranged "Fare Thee Well," the light and airy
"The Game of All Fours," and the soothing and touching "The
Lark." There aren't many artists in the world who can create cool atmospheres
like Kate Rusby. She is a true gem, unlike any other. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
(Rating: 6+++)
Sabrosa
Purr - Music From the Violet Room (CD
EP, Dangerbird, Rock/pop)
Although they are very, very different, Music From the Violet Room
makes us feel the same way The Smashing Pumpkins' Gish did
the first time we heard it. This is a very exciting collection of tunes.
The folks in Sabrosa Purr make music that doesn't sound like other
bands...yet the songs are gripping, intense, and wildly unique. The songs
are sometimes creepy and subtle...and at other times harsh and violent.
The studio effects are trippy and unusual...and the vocals range from subtle
to out-of-control. The band consists of Will Love, Jeff Mendel,
and Jacob Thompson. These folks deliver a mighty big mental punch
here. This EP is destined to be highly cherished in the years to come. Features
eight tracks including "Sabrosa Purr, Pt. 1," "...By The
Water," "God Damn You," and "Liars, Petty Thieves and
Pets." Highly recommended for fans of previously mentioned Smashing
Pumpkins as well as Jane's Addiction and Nine Inch Nails.
Totally killer stuff... (Rating: 5++)
Ashlee Simpson - I Am Me (Really popular nothing kind of CD)
With all the great musical artists and bands in the world...this
is what most folks choose to listen to...? Sad, sad, sad. Ashlee
Simpson is dull. Dull and boring. Dull and boring and
ugly. Dull and boring and ugly and pretentious. Dull and boring
and ugly and pretentious and crappy. Dull and boring and ugly and
pretentious and crappy and small-minded. Dull and boring and ugly
and pretentious and crappy and small-minded and shitty. We hate her.
You should hate her too. (Rating: 1)
Bruce Springsteen (Really boring and dull kind of thing)
How on earth did Bruce Springsteen ever become so popular? It just
goes to show...once again...how dull and unimaginative most music
fans are. Instead of supporting someone who is truly unique and talented...they
would rather support a man with no originality or real talent. Hint for
retards: Just because he can raise his fist in the air and yell like
a retard, it does not mean he is a great songwriter. Bruce is just
a sorry old fart with an irritating shitty voice. He writes totally forgettable
songs and has a boring personality. Sorry to hit you with the truth, Bruce
Springsteen fans. But hey...you shouldn't be reading this anyway.
You belong on mainstream web sites designed by airheads like yourselves.
(Rating: 1)
Suplecs
- Powtin' on the Outside, Pawty on the Inside (CD, Nocturnal,
Rock)
If Ilka at Los Angeles, California's Fly PR is a fan...you know
it must be good. New Orleans rockers Suplecs play blistering hard
rock in the same general vein as bands like Nashville Pussy. The
energy level is high, the rhythms fast, and the guitars are in perpetual
overdrive. It's time to get high and rock out like there's no tomorrow...which
is exactly what the band does on Powtin' on the Outside, Pawty on the
Inside. The band consists of Danny Nick (bass, vocals), Andrew
Preen (drums), and Durel Yates (guitars, vocals)...three sexy
bearded gentlemen who can really pound the hell out of their instruments.
This album features heavy melodic rockers with subtle pop hooks thrown in
for good measure. These guys play genuine, authentic hard rock for folks
who like masculine hard stuff. Kickass tracks include "Tsunami,"
"Gotta Pain," "Four Legged Love Song," "Burnt,"
and "Meatballs and Spaghetti." Great album from start to finish.
These guys are the real thing. (Rating: 5+)
10 Ft. Ganja Plant - Bass Chalice (CD, ROIR,
Reggae)
Folks who really, really, really dig 1970s reggae music are likely
to loose their panties over 10 Ft. Ganja Plant. The band's music
sounds so authentic that you'll swear you're tripping in time. Interestingly,
the band is from upstate New York...but you'd never know it from spinning
Bass Chalice. Guest artists on the album include members of John
Brown's Body and The Meditations. The rhythms and bass lines
are intoxicating and soothing...while the guitars and keyboards are ultra-focused
and often slightly hallucinogenic. Whether the band is playing cool instrumentals
or dance-inducing pop, their overall vibe is bound to please reggae fans
worldwide. Ten classic cuts including "Blood Money," "Last
Dance," "Burning James," and "Deliver Us Jah."
(Rating: 5)
Tall Dwarfs - Weeville (CD, Flying Nun / Cloud
Recordings, Pop), Fork Songs (CD, Flying Nun / Cloud Recordings, Pop)
Reissues of two Tall Dwarfs albums: Weeville and Fork Songs.
Tall Dwarfs was the New Zealand-based duo consisting of Chris
Knox and Alec Bathgate. Together, the two made recordings that
affected a tiny but incredibly devoted group of listeners around the world.
As such, these reissues are sure to receive a warm welcome. Prior to hearing
these reissues, we had never heard either album in its entirety. Weeville
was originally released in 1990 and has now been remastered and reissued
thanks to the folks at Athens' Cloud Recordings. Weeville is a peculiar
album that bears little if any resemblance to other music that was recorded
at the time. Knox and Bathgate apparently weren't interested in any sort
of commercial success as the album is a purely artistic endeavor. Each song
bears little resemblance to the others and yet the album has strange threads
that hold it together. These sixteen odd little tracks have managed to capture
the hearts and imagination of folks in Yo La Tengo and Neutral
Milk Hotel among others. It's no wonder. The albums sounds something
like a more subdued version of The Bonzo Dog Band...except not nearly
as goofy. This disc includes a 20-page lyric booklet. The reissue of Fork
Songs (1991) also includes the Dogma EP (1997). By the time Knox
and Bathgate had recorded Fork Songs they had managed to tighten
their sound and focus their energies...resulting in a smooth and more easily
digestible collection of tunes. While still created out of artistic freedom,
the duo's tunes were becoming just slightly catchy. Whereas Weeville
was more fanciful and unpredictable, Fork Songs is stronger and more
cohesive overall. Our favorite inventive underground pop tunes include "Dare
to Tread," "Lowlands," "Life Is Strange," "Two
Humans," and "Think Small." The Dogma EP is stranger
than either of the full-lengths. These six home recordings provide a fitting,
peculiar ending for the disc. Tall Dwarf fans will undoubtedly scoop up
these treasures immediately...while it may take others some time to digest
the material on these discs. Esoteric and difficult to pigeonhole, Knox
and Bathgate both managed to solidify their future careers with this project...
(Rating: 5+)
Ten
Words For Snow - D-NA (CD, Contraphonic, Pop/rock)
Intelligent, catchy, upbeat guitar pop/rock. Ten Words For Snow is
Justin Berger, Kraig Sagan, Shannan Hibbard, and Dave
Melkonian. Together these four individuals create music that sounds
something like a cross between Guided By Voices, XTC, and
The Beach Boys. The band's articulately crafted recordings seem to
work as they have already built up a credible following and impressed reviewers
across the country. One thing is certain...D-NA sounds nothing like
other Detroit bands. These folks have managed to encapsulate influences
from their favorite bands and recycle them with their own unique vision
and style. The guitars and vocals are totally out-of-this-world.
Killer tracks include "Sexy Grunge Story," "Shake You Off,"
"Beneficial Compost," and "It Will Hide Your Face."
(Rating: 5+)
Pam Tillis - Live at the Renaissance Center (DVD, Music
Video Distributors)
Pam Tillis is a colorful entertainer...and we're not just talking
about the flashy rainbow-colored outfit she wears in this event. During
this show which was taped at the Renaissance Center in Dickson, Tennessee,
Tillis and her band really put out for the crowd. Pam has a really cool
stage presence herself of course...but this concert is made even more engaging
because of her choice of backup musicians...all of whom really add their
own special touches. Compared to most country superstars, Tillis chooses
young players...and interestingly has two female musicians playing center
stage with her. The band consists of Darin Favorite (lead guitar),
Bethany Dick (fiddle), Mary Sue Englund (acoustic guitar),
David Spicher (bass), Tim Lusby (steel guitar), Weston
Mays (keyboards), and Kent Slucher (drums). Pam and her band
present some great up-tempo numbers, but the slower moody tracks are the
real standouts. Of particular interest are "Walk In The Room,"
"Spilled/Pony/Good One Medley" (truly fantastic), "Calico
Plains," "In Between Dances," and "Mandolin Rain."
Throughout this show Pam and her band prove themselves to be true professionals,
playing with and for the crowd...instead of at
them. Presented in stunning 5.1 surround sound, this is a truly entertaining
DVD. After watching this, we immediately wanted to go out and pick up everything
that this magnetic lady has recorded. Outstanding. (Rating: 5++)
The
Twin Atlas - Sun Township (CD, Tuppersize,
Soft pop)
The Twin Atlas is Sean Byrne and Lucas Zaleski, two
Philadelphia gentlemen who write and record their music at home. Sun
Township features ten light, breezy, airy pop compositions with super
smooth harmony vocals and gently strummed guitars. The albums' words and
melodies are subtle and user-friendly...and slowly grow on the listener
with repeated spins. Despite the fact that the songs are soft and pensive,
this album actually sounds better if you turn up the volume. Only
by doing so will the listener be able to hear the nuances in the arrangements.
Songs are what will keep listeners coming back to The Twin Atlas, however...and
this is where Byrne and Zaleski really shine. Their tunes are simple and
easygoing...yet rather unique and ultimately satisfying. Top picks: "Roll
On," "Wrap the Days," "Nylon Test," "Current
Below." (Rating: 5)
The
Veronicas - 4ever (CD, Warner
Bros., Pop)
No, The Veronicas are not an offshoot of The Archies.
There is no connection. The band The Veronicas is a new upbeat buzzsaw girlie
pop band consisting of two 20-year-old twin sisters from Australia. While
the duo's super-energized positive vibe may turn some folks off, others
will be immediately turned ON (we fall into the latter category). True,
there are a lot of bands playing this style of music. But intent
is everything...and intent is what makes 4ever such a cool spin.
Lisa and Jess Origliasso write killer songs...and they deliver
them with such genuine enthusiasm that you just can't help but be drawn
into their world. Both of these young ladies have killer voices...and their
harmonies are nothing short of spectacular. These twelve tunes are slightly
bubblegummy, instantly catchy, and perfect for hyperactive dancing. Top
picks: "4ever," "Secret," "Leave Me Alone,"
"Heavily Broken," "Mother Mother." Great stuff. (Rating:
5)
Acumen Nation - what the f**k?
Aeroplane - Changing modes
The Afterglow - Modern life virus
Annabella - songs of goodbye
Anti-Social Music - sings the great American songbook
Atomic Violet - Rock widow
Awesome New Republic - ANR so far
Bang Sugar Bang - Thwak thwak go crazy!!
Berry - Marriage
The Black Angels - The Black Angels
Bonk - Western soul
Bush Chemists - Raw raw dub
Tim Chaplin - Chrome plated on nickel silver
Cheeseberger - Uitgebergerd
Coretta Scott - Scream & shout
Days Like These - Inventure
Dear and the Headlights - Dear and the Headlights
Default - One thing remains
The Defilers - Metal mountains
Degenerate Art Ensemble - The bastress
Alice Despard - Vessel
The Drinks - Grr!
Dr. Israel - Patterns of war
Drywall - Barbeque babylon
Face To Face - Shoot the moon: The essential collection
Fielding - Fielding
Jody Friendman - Est. 1980
Fumosonic - Different place and time
The Gene Pool - 3rd and main
Leah-Carla Gordone - Dancing on the dragon
The Grabs - Sex, fashion, and money
Kirsty Hawkshaw - Meta-message
The Hideous North - Your mother called and said she doesn't love you
Hudson Bell - When the sun is the moon
Jana Hunter - Blank unstaring heirs of doom
If Thousands - I have nothing
I.Inside - The mood that shapes you E.P.
Jai Alai Savant - Thunder statement
Blake Jones & The Trike Shop - Pop songs & kyries
Lisa Karp - Fucsia blues
Vic Latino - One night in NYC
The Lifted - A reason to live
Listing ship - Time to dream
Michael Lloyd Band - Highwaters EP
The Lonely Hearts - Dispatch
LU - Issues
The Lucy Show - Mania
Hilken Mancini and Chris Colbourn - Hilken Mancini and Chris Colbourn
Mary-Jane - What I came here for
The Meadows - The Meadows
Merry Mixmas - Christmas classics remixed
Jeffrey Michaels - Jeffrey Michaels
The Mother Hips - Red tandy EP
Natalise - I came to play
Wally Nichols - Sharpie
Only Now Existing - Voodoo doll
Gregory Paul - Awake from the flash
The Pit That Became a Tower - Behold! the unseen
The Positions - Bliss!
Program the Dead - Program the Dead
PTI - Exhaust
Radio Whales - Infinite number of sounds
Mike Rickard - Stirred not shaken
Ris Paul Ric - Purple blaze
Saboteur - Saboteur
The Saturday Nights - "Stranded" b/w "Julianna Convince Me"
Saving Jane - Girl next door
Saving Jane - Gril next door (CD single)
Sepultura - Live in Sao Paulo (CD)
Sepultura - Live in Sao Paulo (DVD)
Sevendust - Next
Shipwreck - Origin
A Skaggs Family Christmas - Volume one
Something Must Break - Volume one
SOS - A guide to better living
Southeast Engine - Coming to terms with gravity
Spider - Spider demo
Leo Stokes - Good place to start
Stromkern - Light it up
The Super-Scary Monster Show Featuring Little Gloomy - Walker and Jones
3rd Alley - After school special
Terminus Victor - Under surveillance
The Terms - Smalltown computer crash
The Thin Man - Greasy heart
The Thunderlords - Noisy songs for noisy kids
Tony Hawk's American Wasteland - Soundtrack
The Transit War - Ah discordia
UHF - All our golden tomorrows
Vaistron 1: Breakdown - Boussourir and Andrew Dabb
Various artists - I love Guitar Wolf very much
Various artists - 20 nights of wine and song
Various artists - Noise research program volume 2 - summer 2005
Vessel - Stay alert, watch your neighbors
The Village Green - The Village Green
Voxtrot - EP
The Westport Sunrise Sessions - The Westport Sunrise Sessions
Wren - Wednesday
Yoko Solo - The beeps
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