CDs, Vinyl, and Cassettes (April-June 1996)

The Abe Lincoln Story | Abortion Discussers | Abstrakt Workshop | Analogue | Animals That Swim | Artcore 2 | Bad Religion | Bel Canto | Bile | Blanks 77 | The Blueberries | The Blue Eskimos | Tracy Bonham | Boyracer | Bum | Butterflies | C17H19N03 | Cannibal Corpse | Cardinal Woolsey | Casper Fandango & the Knees | Cast | Catherine Wheel | The Chainsaw Kittens | Chimera | China Drum | Clannad | Clarissa | Ken Clinger | Core | Jayne County | Coyote Shivers | Crankcase | The Daisygrinders | Dakoda Motor Co. | Death Ride 69 | Decoryah | Disappear Fear | Doctahri | Ryan Downe | Download | drivin 'n cryin | Edgar Schwartz | El Nino | Ether Bunny | Everlounge | Cesaria Evora | Fastball | Feyeraband | Finn Brothers | Fragile | French | Frente | Fu Manchu | Fun w/ Atoms | Gipsy Kings | Glass Candle Grenade | Global Basics | Godplow | The Gravel Pit | Gren | The Gufs | Gumdrops | Hampton Grease Band | The Handsome Family | A Robbie Hardkiss Mix | Havalina Rail Co. | Fred Hersch | Hayden | Dylan Hicks | His Name Is Alive | Robin Holcomb | Holy Barbarians | hugh | Charlie Hunter Quartet | Hurl | The Husbians | Husikesque | Idaho | Imperial Drag | Ivy | The Jesus Lizard | Joy Electric | Judge Nothing | Killing Joke | Bobby Kimball | King's X | Kiss | Land of the Loops | Bill Laswell | Lifter | Loomis | Loop Guru | Lotion | Love In Reverse | Love Nut | Lustre | Madball | Mad Daddys | The McRackins | The Meanies | Meat Beat Manifesto | Mill Valley Taters | Mineral | The Miss Alans | Modest Mouse | Monkey Feces | Mouth | Muzzle | My Head | NCRail | Nada Surf | The Nields | No Knife | Ocean Colour Scene | Orbital | Outrageous Cherry | Pain | Paleface | Peach of Immortality | Perfume Tree | Pitch Shifter | Planet Dub | Poundcake | Prescott Curlywolf | Primitive Radio Gods | Psyclone Rangers | James Ray | Real Punk | Reservoir | Rocket Fuel is the Key | 7 Year Bitch | The Screamin' Cheetah Wheelies | Shat | Shoegazer | The Sight-Seers | Skold | Skrew | Sleeper | Slobberbone | Patti Smith | Snuff | Epic Soundtracks | Robin Spielberg | Sponge | Spot | Russ Stedman | Stop | Suckerpunch | Super Deluxe | Super Junky Monkey | Survival of the Fattest | Dan Susnara | Svelt | Swirlies | T.H.C. | Telegraph | Thermadore | Johnny Thunders | Tinker | Titanic Love Affair | Townshend | Toy | Trip 66 | Triple Fast Action | Nik Turner | Type O Negative | Urusei Yatsura | Velour100 | The Verve Pipe | Weston | Yum Yum |

RATING SYSTEM:

= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= OKAY
= SHITTY

THE ABE LINCOLN STORY - We're Havin' a Dance Party with the Abe Lincoln Story! (CD, Flipside, Pop/big band)
Absolutely INFECTIOUS music. Now HERE'S a band that sings about things the common man can identify with: obnoxious phone gimmicks ("I Don't Understand [*69]"), hand signals ("Rock Scissors, Paper!"), day-to-day life ("Get High & Go To Work"), and more. Not only do the song topics go down easy, the music is a bunch of crazy FUN. The Abe Lincoln Story play upbeat pop music that's infected with cool horns from an era gone by. Steve Moramarco has a husky, raspy voice that just pushes things right over the edge. Revival bands like the Squirrel Nut Zippers are coming from a completely different side of the universe than these guys. This is more like soul/street boy pop that has real heart and soul. I sure hope I get to catch this group live, because they sound like they might just be one of the best out there. A total feelgood experience, the Abe Lincoln story gets my vote HANDS DOWN.

ABORTION DISCUSSERS - Make Language Illegal (CD, Lawless, Spoken word)
Of course, as we all know by now, all "spoken word" releases suck SHIT. That is particularly true with the latest release from the Abortion Discussers, whose new CD is a direct response to recent federal legislation making discussion of abortion illegal on the Internet. In the end, my reaction to this is...who cares? Who cares about abortion? Who cares about government? Who cares about AIDS? Who cares about...ANYTHING? This ain't clever. It's a goddamn piece of shit.

ABSTRAKT WORKSHOP 2 - A Collection of Trip Hop and Jazz (CD, Shadow, Trop hop/jazz)
Low-key, trippy, and subtle. Twelve tracks, featuring artists like Jazz Con Bazz, Slop Shop, Rollercone, Sharpshooters, 8 From the Egg, Chugg and more. Good background music or stuff to put on for a sexy dinner by candlelight. As an added bonus (and I think this also comes with the commercially available version), there's another full-length disc of music called "Trip Hop for Jazz Junkies" with a whole slew MORE of great stuff. Much of this music is light and airy, I admit, but in my life there's always a place for that. Smooth and easy does it.

ANALOGUE - AAD (CD, Sonic Bubblegum, Pop/rock?)
Rare is the case when a disc comes in that confuses me. Analogue is the first band that the infamous Sonic Bubblegum label has signed over the Internet, and an odd band it is. The music is as confusing as the CD insert (none of the songs have titles...the lengths of the tunes serve as song titles). Actually, these "songs" are more like soundscapes...different moods and musical ideas appear with each track. Probably the biggest compliment I can give this band is that it doesn't remind me of any others in particular. Most of these tracks certainly defy any sort of commercial appeal at all. Still, the music manages to draw me in and and keep me entertained throughout. This is much more creative and unusual than most of the stuff I've heard lately. Experimental, yes...but in this case that's a very GOOD thing. I love this.

ANIMALS THAT SWIM - Workshy (CD, Big Pop, Pop)
Smooth, clean, well-produced British pop music. This band began in London about five years ago, and they've apparently had quite a bit of success with their music. Listening to this, it almost makes me think that this is what the Television Personalities might sound like if they weren't so quirky and obscure. Not exactly mindblowing, this disc is still quite enjoyable and pleasant. "Sway With Me," is probably my favorite tune here...

ARTCORE 2 - The Art of Drum & Bass (CD, React, Techno/trance)
I'm actually reviewing the British import release of this CD which is also being released domestically (the first Artcore CD was only released overseas). This is an interesting compilation of bands who share the same interest in laying down thumpy, energized rhythm tracks and then overlaying some very dreamy electronic soundscapes over the top. It basically gives you the feeling that you're taking speed and downers at the same time...not a bad feeling at all. This cool disc features twelve tracks from bands like Adam F, Foul Play, Cool Breeze, Optical, J Majik, Eugenix, and many more. Very nice production on these tracks. I suspect this will go over big in the more progressive dance clubs...

BAD RELIGION - The Gray Race (CD, Atlantic, Rock/pop)
More great music from the band that spawned a thousand bands. Honestly, it seems like each month I hear more and more Bad Religion clones. Lucky for the "real thing," they're getting better with age. Several of the tunes on this CD are almost played at a normal (i.e., slower) pace, and this is part of why this may just be my favorite Bad Religion release yet. When the band slows down, it's much easier to tell what's going on. Also, sometimes the lightning speed is unnecessary when you've got such good songs. Oh don't worry...there are still TONS of hyperactive tunes here, but the band throws a few curves in this time and they work. The cover and sleeve art is, as always, spectacular. If you've liked 'em in the past, you'll love this. If you've never heard 'em before, this is as good a place to start as any...

BEL CANTO - Magic Box (CD, Atlantic, Pop)
Bel Canto is the duo of Nils Johansen and Anneli M. Drecker. Nils writes, arranges, and plays all the music. Anneli sings. Both are from Norway. The music on this CD is extremely well-produced and slick. That usually bothers me. With this sort of music it doesn't though. Nils' writes some damn fine music. Anneli sings like an angel. My friends will probably hate me for playing this. That's okay. I hate them anyway.

BILE - Tekno Whore (CD, Energy, Industrial)
Me like BILE. Bile is band what play hard, noisy electronic sound. Very much like first CD, but second CD even better. You think Marilyn Manson hard and offensive? Think again. Bile seeming to not care about any commercial appeal. Only seem to want making UGLY music. Chaos and confusion caused for many by CD likely, but those able to listen get BIG SEXY SPURT from band (key/bassist R. H. Bear very hairy rear end). Even though make ugly, hard noise, band have BIG sense of humor. Check out song title like "No One I Call Friend," "Interstate Hate Song," and "Green Day." Will want to see band again in concert, get big, explosive hard on. Bile KILLER live. MUST SEE band. I happy to recommend Bile. Bile GOOD thing.

BLANKS 77 - Killer Blanks (Advance CD, Radical, Punk rock)
Let's do the time warp...again??? New Jersey punksters Blanks 77 certainly sound like they're heavily influenced by punk bands from 1977. Is this a BAD thing? No. This is NOT a bad thing. This is a GOOD thing. 1977 was a year when punk was GOOD. Many of the punk bands of the 90s are NOT good. They are BAD. So WHO CARES if this band is a throwback to an earlier decade? Not US. We just like GOOD things. This CD is good thing. Blanks 77 will be doing a major tour of the U.S. from June through August 1996. Catch 'em if you can. From the sounds of this advance CD, these guys are HOT.

THE BLUEBERRIES - Museum (CD, Spray, Pop/rock)
Very nice, clean, country-tinged pop from Lexington, Kentucky's The Blueberries. There's a lot to like about this CD. These three guys come up with some really cool vocal harmonies, and the production and arrangements on these tunes are superior. Pleasant stuff to play on a spring day that you may find yourself tapping your foot to. At first the somewhat country-ish tone of some of the tunes was distracting, but the more I listen the more I like that aspect of the music. "Mrs. Shame," "Rain," and "Rape" are my faves here. "Rape" has a nice, long section at the end which is just the sound of nature happening. Ahhh...beautiful. These guys have just the right sensibility about what they're doing...

THE BLUE ESKIMOS - Johnny Guitar E.P. (CD EP, American Standard Recordings, Rock)
This is the debut CD from San Jose, California's Blue Eskimos. Nice lo-fi recording quality on this one. The band plays instrumentals and skewed rock tunes, utilizing a very simple approach and even more limited instrumentation. You get nine tunes here...not bad for an EP, eh? I think what I like best about these here Eskimos is their guitar playing, which ranges from spacey to surf-like (reminds me of Television at times). A very solid debut. I'll be interested to see what these guys come up with for a full-length...

TRACY BONHAM - The Burdens of Being Upright (CD, Island, Rock)
Every so often a piece of music arrives in this office that really grabs my attention. Tracy Bonham's first full-length release for Island is certainly one of those discs. In fact, listening to this I can hardly believe that this is a debut! Ms. Bonham sounds like a well-seasoned songwriter, and she has a voice that'll blow your bananas off. Not only that, her songs cross over several different styles of music...and there's not a bad tune on the disc. In all honesty, all these tunes kick but the ones that I find of particular interest are "Mother Mother," "Navy Bean," "The One," and "The Real." Tracy Bonham is anything but a flash in the pan. This is one person who has the potential to either be a megastar or an incredible artistic success. Let's hope she chooses the latter. At this point, she has won me over completely.

BOYRACER - In Full Colour (CD, Zero Hour, Rock/pop)
Go ZERO HOUR! One of the things I like most about this label is that they have the BALLS to release stuff that bands record in their home studios, seemingly being more concerned with the actual feel of the songs than sound quality. This once again pays off for this adventurous label, scoring BIG TIME with Boyracer. Smooth, simple pop/rock music that is anything but affected and self-centered. This band comes across sounding very genuine and sincere on this 20 song (!!!) CD that spans a wide range of thoughts, ideas, and styles. Sometimes experimental and sometimes direct and simple, this band is completely COOL. Too many good tunes to mention. Just pick this one up and check it out. It's worth your while.

BUM - Can You Spare a Quarter? (CD, Streetlife, Folk)
In case you haven't already heard about this "success story," Streetlife took a portable DAT into downtown Chicago and recorded a retarded bum singing songs. The result? A stinky, slimey no-talent bum...coming off sounding like a stinky, slimey, no-talent bum. This SUCKS.

BUTTERFLIES - Bored Room (CD, Ng, Rock)
Atlanta's Butterflies are anything BUT a "formula band"! Breaking all the rules of songwriting, this band's obtuse, unusual approach to music is inviting and uplifting. Sometimes they play soft like a kitten, and at other times the band almost becomes a blur of chaos. It's this shifting of volume and tempo that reminds me very much of California's Timco, another band that is difficult to categorize. The Butterflies are Susan Holbrook (drums, vocals), Bryan Ciliberto (guitar, bass, vocals), and Bryan Terry (guitar, bass, vocals). Now before you go gettin' all upset thinking that girl drummers are all wimpy, you better hold yer goddamn horses...because Susan crashes and bashes with more hairy ballpower than most of the dumbfuck male drummers out there. This is a hazy, weird collection of tunes that just goes all over the place. Recommended!

C17H19N03 - Terra Damnata (CD, Fifth Colvmn, Electronic)
Just when you thought band names couldn't get any weirder... Seemingly oblivious to any sort of commercial appeal whatsoever, this unusual band catches my attention in a big way. Why? Well, there's not much here to grasp onto...and I like that. Electronic soundscapes that meander, wander, and drift by in a most peculiar manner... Vocals that sound like they're coming from inside the mind... A complete disregard for radio airplay... These are the reasons I like this very unusual CD. Ten tracks. Check out "Penetration" (this is beautiful) or "The Lords of Bone and Machinery." It's not pretty music, but then it's not meant to be. This is anything BUT easy listening...

CANNIBAL CORPSE - Vile (CD, Metal Blade, Death metal)
See the pretty drawing on the cover of the CD. See the nice man who's had his torso split open. See the maggots flowing from his severed torso. See his penis laying amidst the maggots. Vile. Appropriate title for this CD. This music mirrors a harsh, ugly world. These songs are played at a blinding speed. The vocals sound like they're coming straight from hell. Kind of like Morbid Angel, but meaner. You can't get much harder or heavier than this. The song titles say it all: "Devoured by Vermin," "Disfigured," "Puncture Wound Massacre," "Orgasm Through Torture." Highly recommended for children under age 3.

CARDINAL WOOLSEY - Paralyzed With Happiness (CD, Puddle, Rock/pop)
I jumped on this as soon as it hit my mailbox, so I hope I'm the first reviewer to turn you onto this CD. I had already heard a single from Cardinal Woolsey that really impressed me...but this, their first full-length release, is a real mindblower. The band plays pure pop, and they write some GREAT tunes. Actually, what pushes me over the edge with this band are the vocals. Way, way, WAY above average lead vocals...and the harmonies are heavenly. Add to that the fact that this quartet comes up with some breathtaking arrangements...and you've got a CD that will stand up to many, many repeated listenings. This is certainly a case where a band has managed to bridge the gap between accessibility and artistic integrity. Thirteen songs that'll stick to you like glue...and they all kick ass. My initial faves are "Heavenly World," "Colors," "Hey Tell Me," "I Get A Rush," and "Something Right." This is one of the best things I've heard this year for certain. These songs give me chills. GET THIS.

CASPER FANDANGO & THE KNEES - Consumer LP (Independent cassette, Lookit Meee, Pop)
This must be the year for all good drummers to step out from behind their drum kits and take on solo careers. This is a collection of one-man home recordings by Jason NeSmith, drummer for Orange Hat (yeah!) and Feyerabend. I got loads of cassettes in the mail from home tapers, and to be honest...most of them SUCK. I suppose that's why this cassette is such a breath of fresh air. Though only recording with four tracks, Jason squeezes the most out of his machines and comes up with a very impressive (and widely varied) collection of tunes. Sometimes poppy and at other times wildly experimental, this tape is a BLAST. You won't find it in stores, so if you're interested write to Jason at 1226 Stoneybrook Dr., SE, Atlanta, GA 30316.

CAST - All Change (Advance CD, A & M, Pop)
This is John Power's new band, the ex-bass player for the band the La's (whose best known song was the incredibly uplifting "There She Goes"). After the La's split up in 1991, John took three years off to concentrate on songwriting. Now he's back with this pure pop British quartet. John's got quick the knack for writing catchy melodies, as evidenced on this band's debut CD...and his vocals are exceptional. Of course this stuff is only going to appeal to pop fans, because much of this is very happy and sing-songish. These songs are highly polished and well-produced, yet they still retain the human element so crucial to good pop music. This is pretty damned good for a debut CD, and it makes me feel like this band is going to really go somewhere...

CATHERINE WHEEL - Like Cats and Dogs (Advance cassette, Mercury, Rock/pop)
Catherine Wheel is a band that takes some getting used to. I've heard several releases from this band. While I find myself enjoying some of the band's songs, there's a part of me that's turned off by what comes across as a conscious attempt to appeal to a specific audience. Maybe it's just my imagination. Hell, what do I know? Not much, to tell you the truth. But after listening to this cassette, I'm much more pro-Catherine Wheel than I was before. Is the music better this time, or am I just in a better frame of mind while I'm listening to this? I don't know. I don't know SHIT. Make up your own mind, Bub!

THE CHAINSAW KITTENS - Candy For You (CD EP, Scratchie, Rock)
It is very easy for me to gush about the Chainsaw Kittens. Everything I have heard from this incredibly enjoyable Oklahoma band has been top notch and incredible. Tyson Meade is an incredible singer and performer, and the rest of the band is tight and energetic. But the thing that sets this band apart from the rest are the songs. Though this is only an EP, in four songs the Kittens display more passion and urgency than 99% of the bands out there today. The tunes on this EP are "Grandaddy's Candy," "Bones In My Teeth," "Strange" (a cover of the Galaxie 500 tune), and "Bury My Heart." The Chainsaw Kittens totally ROCK!!!

CHIMERA - Earth Loop (Advance cassette, Grass, Pop)
This group hails from Belfast, and their identifying trademarks seem to be chiming guitars (thus the name?), cerebral vocals, and soaring, dreamy melodies. At times reminiscent of the Cocteau Twins (but more accessible), this band has some absolutely remarkable tunes: "Liquid Star," "Catch Me," "All I Need," "Let Met Be Around," "Lost In Space." Though this may sound too "pretty" for a lot of underground music snobs, they'll be the ones missing out. This is a very talented band with a lot to offer. Like sitting beside a lake on a beautiful Spring day, this is a nice breath of fresh air.

CHINA DRUM - Goosefair (CD, 510, Rock)
England's China Drum have a really dense, really hard rocking sound full of energy. Apparently these guys are getting pretty hip lately, touring with bands like Green Day (ho hum) and Supergrass (yeah!). This falls in that same old Bad Religion category (Has anyone noticed how many bands Bad Religion has influenced lately? Jesus!), but these fellows pull off their thing well on their debut for 510 Records. Solid rhythms, good melodies... I really like what these guys are doing. That high polish may scare away the punks, but those guitars might just draw 'em back in...

CLANNAD - Lore (CD, Atlantic, World)
BIG SOUND. Gothic, heavenly, super-polished... Ireland's Clannad win hands down for the best orchestrated vocals around. This is the group's first CD since their highly-acclaimed 1993 release. Kind of like Abba, Steeleye Span, or even Robbie Robertson, this band obviously has so much experience and knowledge in the studio that they leave other folks in their dusty trails. This disc has lots and lots of high points. Maire Brennan's vocals are, of course, breathtaking. This is the kind of music that will hopefully cross over many barriers. Hell, this ain't the kinda shit I normally listen to...but that's EXACTLY why I like it. Everybody needs a change every once in a while, right? RIGHT. Most of this is fucking incredible.

CLARISSA - Silver (CD, Mammoth, Pop/rock)
This is produced by Don Gehman (who has also produced Hootie & the Blowfish, R.E.M., and John Mellencamp). Not a good foot to start out on (yukky doodle!), but after listening to this band I ended up liking them anyway. Rocking with a soft edge, Clarissa produce some very likable stuff on this disc. Sure, it's all very well-produced, layered music that sounds like money played a big part in making it, but it still comes off sounding okay. Hell, the guy's got a really good voice for this sort of thing and those chimey guitars are pretty damned cool. I bet radio stations are gonna EAT this up...

KEN CLINGER - KC.45/46 (Cassette, Bovine Productions, Eerie pop)
Ken Clinger is somewhat of a legend in the world of underground home tapers. I've heard various things he's done with other folks, but this is the first time I've heard Ken's solo material. Wow. Now I know what all the fuss is about. Curious about the title of the cassette? Well, this is Ken's 45th and 46th (!?!) projects in this series. Possessed to create? You betcha! I think we've got yet ANOTHER R. Stevie Moore on our hands. The music? Odd, atmospheric pop that doesn't sound unlike early Gary Numan, except not nearly as accessible. Ken really excels in his arrangements, and his vocals are downright spooky. Mr. Clinger prefers to trade tapes with other folks as opposed to selling his music. Contact him at Bovine Productions, 311 Stratford Ave., #2, Pittsburgh, PA 15232-1108 (or e-mail him at clinger@duq2.cc.duq.edu...also see his web page in our links section). This is mind blowing stuff for sure...

CORE - Revival (CD, Atlantic, Rock)
This is certainly an appropriately-titled CD. Hailing from the Jersey Shore, Core lists band influences like Led Zeppelin, Cream, Iron Butterfly, and Black Sabbath. Their music certainly has many of the elements of these dinosaur bands of the past. Big, overdriven guitars pulsate over thundering bass and drums to create the illusion that the seventies never really ended. Spaced-out, echo-drenched vocals complete the picture. That the band writes very simple tunes (often with only one or two riffs) plays very much in their favor. Thundering, pothead rock for the new generation of drugged-out misfits.

JAYNE COUNTY - Deviation (CD, Royalty, Rock)
With all the fuss over Pansy Division, one would think that there's never been an in-your-face homosexual rock band before. Jayne County is certainly one of the original fags to dress and play the way he does, and he's still at it after all these years. Well, actually it's SHE, since she's a transexual now (thus the name change from Wayne to Jayne). I remember seeing this guy's mug ALL OVER the pages of New York rock magazines in the seventies...and his (that was then) photos always made a big impression on me. Though I've always admired her, Jayne's music never did much for me in the past. This new one I really like, though. It's punchy, somewhat punkish rock music and Jayne's vocals sound better than ever. Hey, anyone who can cover "Cherry Bomb" and make it work deserves major points. Who said old ladies can't rock? Jayne County rocks like a goddamn motherfucker!

COYOTE SHIVERS - Coyote Shivers (CD, Mutiny, Rock)
This three-piece rock band (fronted by Coyote Shivers himself) has a really big, dense, hard sound. This CD has plenty of intelligent songs played with guts and vigor. I like the masculine sound of Shivers' voice. He whipers, he screams, he growls...and he somehow manages to sound believable no matter WHAT sound he's making with his voice. From the sound of this disc, I'd bet this band is a BLAST live. With ultra-hip tunes like "The Truth," "Happiness is a Warm Bong" (GREAT song title), and "She Drove Me To Drink and Drive," this trio is on their way straight up. Oh yeah...this guy had his nipples cut off and had them replaced with star shapes made from the skin of a goat. Now is that alternative...or WHAT???

CRANKCASE - Scrap EP (CD EP, Static, Rock)
I've been impressed by this Philadelphia quartet before, and they've done it again. Though only an E.P. this time (six tunes), these guys again offer up some mighty tasty rock tunes. My favorite this time around is the six minute "My Left Foot," which is musically quite complex and obtuse. On other tunes, the band is more accessible and rocky. Interestingly, outside the band these guys' occupations are audio/video technician, civil engineer, printer, and biologist (!). Just goes to show that some professionals DO know how to rock...

THE DAISYGRINDERS - Yo-Yo EP (CD EP, Half A Cow (import), Rock)
Punchy, somewhat noisy rock music. This EP features four tunes: "Yo-Yo," "Dodgy," "Hey Sally," and "Girf." "Yo-Yo" is my favorite with its cool intertwined guitars, but "Hey Sally" is also pretty damn neat...sounding something like the Young Fresh Fellows.

DAKODA MOTOR CO. - Railroad (CD, Atlantic, Rock)
You know...I normally HATE bands with combined male and female vocals. The sound of the two usually GRATES on my nerves. Dakoda Motor Co. is a band with combined male and female vocals. In this case, the merging of the two sounds GREAT. This could possible be because the female vocalist (Melissa Brewer) has a real SNOTTY voice which sounds super COOL. This band is led by Peter King (he's the host of MTV's Sandblast as well as a world-class surfer, having appeared on the cover of Surfer magazine four times). Because I HATE MTV, I figured this band would be PRETENTIOUS and HORRIBLE. But they're NOT. They're COOL and they ROCK LIKE HELL. In fact, this band is an incredible batch of fun. They beat the PANTS off most other rock bands out there. Honest. Jesus. Worth checking out...

DEATH RIDE 69 - Screaming Down the Gravity Well EP (CD EP, Fifth Colvmn, Industrial/techno)
Upon listening to this for the first time, I kept thinking that something was wrong. Then it finally hit me. A GIRL singing in an industrial band? Normally industrial bands have male vocalists. I'm not sure why, but that certainly seems to be the case. The female vocalist in this case is Beat Mistress, the drummer/percussionist from My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult. Ms. Mistress certainly has the pipes for this kind of music, and I definitely like the title track best. Big production, urgent alienation. Pretty damn cool.

DECORYAH - Fall-Dark Waters (CD, Metal Blade, Progressive rock)
What? A Metal Blade release that is NOT heavy metal??? Hey, more power to the record label that dares to release different styles of music. This band harkens back to the days of seventies progressive rock with elaborate arrangements and intricate musical passages. The band hails from Finland. Maybe that's why their sound is different from most of the stuff I hear lately. Sort of like baroque music for the nineties, this wall of sound is a nice change from what's currently out there...

DISAPPEAR FEAR - Seed in the Sahara (CD, Rounder, Folky lesbian pop)
Whenever any band labels itself as a "lesbian" or "gay" band, I just want to push it back in the closet and lock the door. This is definitely the case with Disappear Fear. No, the music isn't that bad...but the fact that these folks present themselves as an "openly gay band" is one big turn off. The lyrics on this CD are particularly STUPID.

DOCTAHRI - Einstein Was a Bullfighter (CD, Cash Only, Experimental/funk/electronic)
The new Cash Only label starts off with a mighty KICK. Featuring Bret Helm, formerly of P.I.L. and Jennifer Batten, guitarist for Michael Jackson's tours, this band is loud, smart, and heavy. This is a good example of an expensive studio used the right way. Yes, there are tons of effects on this CD...and there are LOTS of musical balls showing their hairy selves. But it's the sheer excitement that comes through in the end, making this batch of tunes both fun as well as challenging to listen to. Even the song titles are entertaining: "Life's Little Questionnaires," "Brain Dead Endorsee," "Coffee Saved My Marriage." This is certainly worth checking out, and it blows most modern industrial bands off the face of the earth. Honest.

RYAN DOWNE - The Hypocrite (CD, Rocket/Island, Pop/rock)
Bad midget rock.

DOWNLOAD - The Eyes of Stanley Pain (CD, Nettwerk, Electronic/industrial)
Just how far can one go in mutating and distorting the human voice? That seems to be the quest for industrial experimentalists Download. Combining industrial rhythms and trance-like electronics, cEvin Key and Mark Spybey throw human voices into the mix...coming up with some of the STRANGEST sounds I've ever heard people make. The industrial/electronic medium can often become trite and annoying because the folks *��,*��,� .. *��,*��, FINDER DAT"*��,+��,� P�-97.hc�tml���������Revie�ws-April�EVIEW~1HTM ҋx"mqP(���ESOURCEFRK*��,*��,� �t-97.�html�������RevieC�ws-Augus�EVIEW~2HTM �Y�"tqP(s��ber-9�7.html���RevieH�ws-Decem�EVIEW~3HTM �d#|qP(h��7.htmUl�������������RevieHUws-Feb-9�EVIEW~4HTM ȁ;"�qP(���7.htmdul�������������Revie uws-Jan-9�EVIEW~5HTM f��!�qP(L��97.ht ml�����������RevieUws-July-�EVIEW~6HTM .p�"�qP(���97.htg5ml�����������Revieo5ws-June-�EVIEW~7HTM Ua�"�qP(���-97.he�tml���������RevieE�ws-March�EVIEW~8HTM �X"�qP(��7.html�l�������������Reviea�ws-May-9�EVIEW~9HTM ���"�qP(x��ber-9d�7.html���Reviea�ws-Novem�EVIE~10HTM ���"�qP(%��er-97d�.html�����Reviel�ws-Octob�EVIE~11HTM ���"�qP(���mber-ki97.html�Revieeiws-Septe�EVIE~12HTM up#�qP(��I hope they retain their soft sde, because the stuff that Chri played with his acoustic guita was probably the best. Chris wites really smooth pop tunes, ad he has a voice that's even smother. The young lady who sang nd played violin added just thezing. The tunes kick...the production is crisp and clear...and the vocal harmonies are astounding. Sort of like a cross between the Beach Boys and Frank Zappa (alright...so I DID get that from the press release...), this is an odd little band with more tons more talent and creativity than most bands with big recording contracts. From the bluesy "Uncle Blues" to the eerie "Monster Magik Show" to the haunting strains of "Carnival Connie," this CD never fails to amaze me. Of course, at this point I can certainly say that virtually ANYTHING on the Optional Art label is worth your while. Produced by the one and only Rich Arithmetic. Highly recommended!

EL NINO - El Nino (CD, Flat Earth, Rock/pop)
Another home run for the fine folks at Flat Earth. Over the last couple of years this obscure little label has been putting out some of the finest unknown pop stuff I've heard. Indiana must be LOADED with unknown pop talent, as evidenced by the totally inviting El Nino. On their self-titled debut, this quartet delves into pure pop, dreamy pop/rock, and psychedelia with ease and style. And some of the songs here are nothing short of KILLER. Want proof? Check out "Still the Same" or even better yet, "Fly." Exceptional vocals, spaced-out guitars, and way above average melodies are but a few of this group's strengths. If you can't find this in stores, e-mail the label at flatearth@surf-ici.com. Mighty fine stuff INDEED.

ETHER BUNNY - Papa Woody (CD, Fifth Colvmn, Dub/Jazz)
Fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, fun, FUN! Twenty absolute gems with song titles like "Chauncey Gardener," "Tar Baby," "Tinkerbell Tramp," "Mr. Poopypants," and "Bunny Jump." The music? Well, the rhythm tracks sound very much like dub or even acid jazz. But the music that's layered over the top is WILD. Horns straight out of Louisiana (or even orchestral pieces) oodle and noodle all over the place in a crazy haze of jazz hysteria, creating some of the most fun instrumentalReviews-April-97.html&������TEXTStMl
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.� ����aWO:���m�EVIE~12HTMome clunkers (&qot;Hephaestus," "The ale of the Old Wives"). Ths three-piece doesn't play formla pop...the song styles vary agreat deal from tune to tune. Ad most of them work. Reminiscen of a whole slew of different bnds, I get the feeling The Verg is just on the verge of makingsome groundbreaking recordings.Definitely worth a listen. (Ratng: 4)

WHY?TINGS BURN/VASOLINE TUNER/B> - "Glistening&qut; b/w "Mr. Ugly"(Split 7" vinyl single, T..N., Rock)
Cool single fromtwo cool bands. The oddly-title Why?Things Burn offer te tune "Glistening," hich is a nice slab of moody po music that is somewhat droningand surprisingly accessible. 's "Mr Uly" is much more obtuse, wth the eerie chorus refrain leaing a permanent impression on m feeble little brain. Vasoline uner is a band to watch. Their usic is odd and somewhat dissonnt, and their vocalist is KILLE (be certain to check out theirfull-length!). On cool minty gren vinyl. (Rating: 4))

THE MEANIES - 10% Weird (CD, Frontier, Rock)
Pure feelgood singalong punk pop that's so good it'll make you throw up coffee tables. No kidding, Australia's Meanies play so simple that it's almost like being back in kindergarden. No w *��,*��,� .. *��,*��,� �EVIEW~1HTM *��,*��,� >
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Underground (all kneel and ray). (Rating: 1)

MEAT BEAT MANIFESTO - Subliminal Sandwich (CD, Nothing/Interscope, Collage)
Now on Trent Reznor's Nothing label, Meat Beat Manifesto sounds better than ever. I was going to categorize this as "world music," but then I thought it was more like dub. Then as soon as I had come to that conclusion, I decided it sounded more like ambient music. In actuality, this music fits into a great many musical categories and therein lies this band's artistic appeal. Actually the brainchild of Jack Dangers, this band flits in out out of one style to another so fast it'll make your head swim. And on this DOUBLE CD (over 140 minutes of music!), there's a whole lot of shit to sink your teeth into. Rather than making his musical meld a difficult listening experience, Mr. Dangers effortlessly melds and blends his music in a style that goes down as easy as blueberry pie. Very different, very eclectic...this is dreamy and cool.

MILL VALLEY TATERS - History of Rock and Roll (Independent cassette, Guitar/instrumental)
GOD. I wish some label would sign these guys. They've been making some of the most enjoyable instrumental guitar rock around for quite some time now, and they DESERVE a wider audience. Sure, their independent cassettes are GREAT but I always end up wanting MORE...which is probably just what these guys WANT. Yup, this band is once again more fun than a HUNDRED barrels of MONKEYS. FUN. Pure and simple. This is my favorite tape YET from these guys. You will WANT to contact the Mill Valley Taters and get some of their music. It is a BLAST. Write to: Bone Headquarters, 426 Highland Ave., Stratford, CT 06497.

MINERAL - The Power of Failing (CD, Crank!, Rock)
Hmmm... Driving, powerful rock music from Austin's Mineral. The lead singer reminds me very much of the lead singer for Becky Sharp. On this, their debut CD, the band shows that they can competently play a variety of different styles of music...ranging from harsh and hard to soft and pensive. This doesn't sound like most of the bands I've heard from Austin. Cool guitars and a driving rhythm section are this band's greatest strengths.

THE MISS ALANS - Ledger (CD, World Domination, Rock/pop)
VERY COOL BAND! This is the fourth album for the Miss Alans. They put out two independent releases, and recorded a third one for the Zoo label before being dropped. Hailing from Fresno, California, this band is in a groove that I REALLY like. Well-executed guitars weave in and out of one another while a smooth rhythm section makes things boil. What REALLY pushes this band over the edge for me is the singer. Scott Oliver has a totally MESMERIZING voice--simultaneously breathy and masculine (sort of like Frank Black used to sound before he turned into an obnoxious, self-absorbed fuck). The band's arrangements are kept to a minimum, with each member seeming to focus more or creating a mood rather than overplaying their instruments. Nice production, excellent tunes. This is indeed EXQUISITE.

MODEST MOUSE - This Is a Long Drive For Someone With Nothing To Think About (CD, Up, Rock)
Think all rock bands sound alike? If so, here's one to prove you wrong. This doesn't sound like anything I've heard before. Modest Mouse is a truly original band, creating sparkling, incredible music that comes from some unique part of a mind like I've never heard before. Not only are these songs some of the best I've heard of late, but the arrangements are KILLER. This band is from Issaquah, Washington. Maybe being from a smaller town is what helps make these guys come off so refreshing and original (it certainly didn't hurt Bracket!). Whatever the case, I predict that this is going to be a MAJOR cult band if they can keep this up. Urgent, passionate, unusual, and yet very accessible, this CD is a whirlwind of totally knockout music. Way, way, WAY above average vocals. Cool lyrics. Excellent rhythm section. Eighteen tunes. You MUST check this out. WOW...

MONKEY FECES - Experiment Until You Shit (CD, Banjo, Bluegrass)
Progressive bluegrass experimenters Monkey Feces sound shitty. Their songs are shitty, their lyrics are shitty, and the messsages they convey are shitty. This could possibly be because all five members of the band have shitty parents, grew up in shitty towns, and wear shitty clothes. I like monkeys (who doesn't?), and I KNOW their shit has to sound better than this. A failed experiment, aborting the gigantic manger...and fixations invading the tension delight. Pigmy.

MOUTH - Hole of Your Head (CD, Reprise, Rock)
From Sweden, this is a Pixies soundalike band. They've actually got some good tunes, but a soundalike band is still a soundalike band. If they can shake the Pixies sound, I think they may be onto something though...

MUZZLE - Betty Pickup (CD, Reprise, Rock)
Muzzle is an EXCELLENT band. The sound is basic nineties fuzzy rock, but what sets them apart from all the other bands are those HEAVENLY harmony vocals! Unafraid to sing instead of yell, these guys manage to come up with some GREAT tunes...really catchy stuff that just pulsates with energy and style. At times reminiscent of the Jam, this is the kind of stuff that I can listen to over and over again without tiring of it. What's kind of sad is that this band (like so many others) may very well get overlooked because they don't have gimmicks and they don't dress like morons. This band simply makes great music. Eleven tracks, including "What a Bore," "Free Trampoline" (this one's totally COOL), "Glug," and "Flying Lesson." A brilliant CD!

MY HEAD - Endless Bummer (CD, Capitol, Rock)
Upbeat fun guitar rock from a trio that sounds like they've played together a hell of a lot. There's not really a lot that I can say about this band to differentiate it from hundreds of others on the scene. But I get a super good feeling listening to this, and I don't have to explain why. Let's be brief here: My Head sounds good. This CD rocks. Check it out!

NCRAIL - NCRail (CD, Middlesex, Rock)
Experimental country rock? Or maybe progressive country pop? Whatever you call it, this band is treading in unfamiliar territory. This six-piece group has a big sound, and they cover a lot of ground over the course of this CD. Some songs work better than others. Some I like, some I don't. Hey...their live show just might push me over the edge though...cause these guys sound like they're having fun playing together...

NADA SURF - High/Low (Advance CD, Elektra, Rock)
Good driving, swirling rock music. Interestingly, this band got their big break by slipping a tape to Ric Ocasek (ex-Cars), who loved the band and produced this CD. These three guys play some really tight, powerful rock music with well-crafted melodies. Plus, they're rather imaginative with their arrangements (I particularly like the guitar stuff). While there's not a lot here to differentiate this band from a lot of other hard rock bands, I think these guys are onto something and I expect this is only the beginning for them. An impressive debut.

THE NIELDS - Gotta Get Over Greta (CD, Razor & Tie, Pop)
Fronted by two sisters from Massachusetts named Katryna and Nerissa Nields, this is one nice sounding pop band. The Nields sisters have crystal clear voices that, when combined together, sound seamless and perfect. And believe me, their vocal harmonies are OUT OF THIS WORLD. This CD contains plenty of upbeat music, but it's when the group slows things down that I really get charged up ("I Know What Kind of Love This Is" is certainly the strongest track here). Apparently this group has been having good success with their D.I.Y. approach and for good reason. This is a mighty talented band with lots of good tunes.

NO KNIFE - Drunk on the Moon (CD, Time Bomb, Rock)
Noisy but nice rock music from San Diego's No Knife. The band has a busy, unpredictable sound that is at times spastic and at other times assaultive. What I like best about this band is that while all the chaos is happening, they still manage to maintain clearcut melodies and song structures. At times so progressive that it borders on jazz, this group's music is hard to categorize. With only one listen, though, many of these songs grab me just where I like to be grabbed. Top picks: "Ginger Vitus," "Habits," "Kiss Your Killer," and "Titanic." Abstract and peculiar, yet still accessible and thoguht provoking...

OCEAN COLOUR SCENE - Moseley Shoals (CD, MCA, Pop)
Wow. I can't remember when I've heard a new band with so many GREAT songs on one CD. Britain's Ocean Colour Scene are somewhat like a cross between Crowded House and mid-period Bee Gees (with a little more soul than either of those bands). On this, the band's debut disc for MCA, these four guys show an incredible range of songwriting skills. Instead of playing one particular style of music, the band plays a timeless brand of pop music that will probably never grow old. Though virtually all the songs are good, standout tracks for me are "The Day We Caught the Train" (this one deserves to be a hit) and "The Circle," which has an incredibly beautiful melody. Musicians and songwriters in the truest sense of the word, these guys are heads above the pack in that they write some DAMN good melodies. Not only that, the lyrics are WAY above average...evoking specific emotions and feelings in a very genuine way. I also really appreciate that this band is not afraid to show their soft side... Beautiful pop stuff that'll probably sound just as good a decade from now...

ORBITAL - In Sides (CD, Internal, Electronic)
Orbital's latest release is one tasty electronic feast (say that ten times fast). This British duo has been making some of the coolest electronic music around for quite some time now, but this time they've really outdone themselves. This disc features eight new tunes, but that's rather confusing since tracks 3 and 4 (and 7 and 8) have the exact same titles. As an added bonus with this one, for a limited time this CD also includes the TIMES FLY and THE BOX EP (that's only true for the U.S. version). A lot of electronic groups could take a lesson or two from Orbital. Instead of spewing out predictable crap that sounds like digital trash, these fellows create orchestral soundscapes that continually change and evolve in a manner similar to classical music. This one should please old fans and bring in some new followers as well...

OUTRAGEOUS CHERRY - Stereo Action Rent Party (CD, Third Gear, Pop/rock)
I never heard this band's debut CD, but after hearing this I'd sure like to. For their second full-length release, Outrageous Cherry do cover versions of some VERY odd songs. Everything from Petula Clark to Television to 10CC to the MC5 and Eno get treatments here, and the results are staggering. Recorded in such as way as to sound much like a late sixties album, this sounds like nothing else I've heard all year. The band's vocals are especially good, harking back to the British invasion. If you think cover versions have to be bad, you need to hear this. These folks have a very firm grip on what they're doing, and the results are VERY impressive.

PAIN - Midgets With Guns (CD, Goggins, Rock/pop/ska)
The strains of the opening track ("Pose Ode") caught my attention immediately. As a prelude to the hepped-up, nervous pop on the rest of the CD, the introduction works. Though Pain produced a very good debut CD, this (their second release) is much, MUCH stronger. The production is crisp and clear...and the tunes are much poppier. In fact, it is this band's unique ability to combine straightfoward pop tunes with funky horns that is their greatest strength. The musicianship on this disc is impeccable, and the arrangements don't really sound like any other band I've heard lately. Excellent lyrics and vocals abound on this fourteen song CD. My favorite is "Square Pegs," which could easily become a smash hit on the college radio circuit. Also of particular note is "One-Legged Girl," which makes me feel like I'd love to hear this band produce a CD of softer pop stuff...

PALEFACE - Get Off (Advance cassette, Elektra, Rock)
If there ever was a man whose voice defined the word "snotty," it would surely be Paleface. "Discovered" by Danny Fields (who signed the MC5 and the Stooges), Paleface certainly owes some debt to the Stooges for his sound. Paleface and his new 3-piece band play simple, three-piece grinding rock with growling, snotty vocals. This sounds like it was recorded without overdubs, which is one of the most appealing factors about this release. For pure hard rock music, there are few bands I've heard this year that can match this man's intensity. Super simple and direct, these tunes hitcha right in the face HARD. Produced by Andy Paley. Rough and COOL.

PEACH OF IMMORTALITY - Talking Heads '77 (CD, Fused Coil/Fifth Colvmn, Noise)
If there is any band I've heard this year that stretches the boundaries of what can actually be put onto a compact disc and called music, it must certainly be Peach of Immortality. There is little to hold onto here. Noises stop and start, things speed up and slow down, and there's virtually no melodies or song structures to speak of. Oddly enough, this band's "noise making" sounds pretty good. It's certainly not for everybody. All of this sounds completely unrehearsed...like some people just fucking around with musical instruments and audio equipment. But hey...it sounds different. And around here, that counts for something. Warning: This is difficult listening material.

PERFUME TREE - A Lifetime Away (CD, World Domination, Trance/dub)
This is a band that likes to play with your mind. Shifting and mutating sounds collide and transform before your ears with varying dub tempos, creating the overall illusion of having taken some very heavy drugs. This unusual quartet hails from Vancouver, and apparently they're rather popular in their home country. To describe this? Hmmm... Imagine combining Scorn with the Cocteau Twins...and then throwing in Hawkwind and a handful of downers. Get the idea? Tripped out to the max, Perfume Tree is a very atmospheric band using more effects than a donkey camel. Ounce for dose and dose for ounce, this band is completely SPACED OUT.

PITCH SHIFTER - Infotainment? (CD, Earache, Electronic/industrial)
Pitch Shifter is one of the best industrial bands out there, and they just keep getting better. On their latest CD the band sounds as harsh as ever (and that's REALLY saying something), yet their music sounds more stylized than before. Seething with evil and intensity, these songs convey alienation and act as a sign of the times we're living in. This is one of the few industrial bands that will probably also appeal to punks, if only for those INCREDIBLE vocals. I caught this band live once, and that's what made a believer out of me. If you can take it really, REALLY loud and hard, then Pitch Shifter is the band for you. If you can't stand the heat, avoid this one like the plague. This rocks HARD.

PLANET DUB - Planet Dub (Double CD, Mammoth/Planet Dog, Dub/Various Artists)
Mmmmmm, mmmm. I sho' duz lak dat dub thang. Duh dub thang be goot. Reel goot. Yeh, hevveh base trax layuh wiff sum hevvuh-lee space-out sound maak fuh goot lissuh. Yoo bee trippuh? Dis stuff bee goot foe trippuh! Yoo bee trippuh yo brains out! Go, muh-fukkuh! You GO! Summuh duh ah-tiss fee-cha include 100th Monkey, Silicon Drum, Children of the Bong, Astralasia, Eat Static, Full Moon Scientist and plenneh moe! Plus, dissiz TOO CD fulluh dub! Dubbuh dub! Dubbuh dub! Dubbuh dub plenneh hot, Bub! Dis stuff duss muh nutz good...

POUNDCAKE - Aloha Via Satellite (CD, Q Division, Pop/rock)
Playing pop in the tradition of bands like Material Issue, Poundcake comes up with some damn fine tunes on their debut CD for Q Division. Playing basic power pop songs combined with vocals with a definite Beatles influence, these three guys prove themselves to be very talented and skilled. Where this band really shines is on the slower numbers, where the vocal harmonies come off sounding nothing short of...INCREDIBLE (check out "Big Brother Dandeline," my favorite tune on this disc). Question: When does a Boston band not sound like a Boston band? Answer: When the band is Poundcake. Lots of commercial appeal, but there's still a lot of meat here to sink your teeth into...

PRESCOTT CURLYWOLF - Six Ways To Sunday (Advance cassette, Mercury, Raw rock)
What makes a band good or bad? The difference between you and me is that you THINK you know, while I actually DO know. Got that? Now I'm not one of those pretentious, asswipe music reviewers that you hate...am I? Ummm... Back to reality. This is one ROCKING GODDAMN BAND! Usually too many cooks spoil the broth, but in the case the broth is better. Fronted by three guys who can ALL sing like hell, play their instruments like there's no tomorrow, and write some KILLER songs. The roots of this band began in Louisiana, but now the band is based in Austin. If you like in-your-face hard rock music, you MUST check this band out. Chock full of charged energy and INCREDIBLE guitar playing, this CD is one motherfucking ball of FUN. Too many great tunes to list, but some standouts are "Spaceman," "Rather Be," "What It Is," and "Bombshelter."

PRIMITIVE RADIO GODS - Rocket (Advance CD, Columbia, Pop/rock)
Man. This is EXCELLENT. Thank God this CD finally saw the light of day. Interestingly, this recording project began in 1990 by Chris O'Connor and an old band of his called the I-Rails. The band began recording this collection of tunes, and then Chris finished it on his own...and eventually released it on his own label. Apparently it got overlooked, until some person at Columbia who was paying attention heard the disc and decided to re-release it. I've heard quite a bit of stuff by Mr. O'Connor. I think this is the best thing I've heard him do. At times pure pop and at other times somewhat experimental, this disc is clever yet easy to listen to. Great tunes throughout...and the vocals are stellar.

PSYCLONE RANGERS - Beatin' on the Bat Pole (CD EP, World Domination, Rock)
Noisy, noisy, NOISY. Sort of like a cross between Ed Hall and the Stooges. Once Philadelphia's Psyclone Rangers start "beatin' on the bat pole" they just won't QUIT. This EP contains six tunes (including covers of Minutemen and Gun Club tunes). Wired, spaced-out guitars and echo-drenched vocals are in abundance here. This is some hell raisin' stuff, and it just whets my appetite for the next full-length from this KILLER band...

JAMES RAY - Best of James Ray's Performance & Gangwar (CD, Fifth Colvmn, Industrial)
This 76-minute collection was produced by Andrew Eldritch (of Sisters of Mercy) and James Ray, and includes the first two 12" releases by James Ray's Performance (originally released on the Merciful label). Sounds nice, and is a bit poppier than you might think. Fourteen tunes, my faves being "Mexico Sundown Blues," "Texas," "Cadillac Coming," and "Santa Susana."

REAL PUNK - The Nasty Years (CD, Cleopatra, Rock/Various Artists)
THIS is nasty? This intriguing compilation of tunes from some early punk rock bands sure sheds light on one thing. Bands of the nineties sound HUNDREDS of times nastier than bands of the seventies. Not that this is a good thing or a bad thing, I just think that bands have gotten (and sound much more) extreme. Still, this compilation serves as an interesting look back at the way some aspects of the music business began to change. Featuring a slew of legendary artists like the Dead Kennedys, Vibrators (their "Dragnet" is my favorite on this CD), Sham 69, the Germs, and Broken Bones, this disc also sheds light on another thing. Some bands age better than others. Some of these sound as fresh as when I first heard 'em. Others don't. The good stuff here is really good, however...

RESERVOIR - Reservoir (CD, Zero Hour, Electronic/instrumental)
Hmmm... Can you say "no commercial appeal whatsoever"? You can. I KNOW you can. Can you say "bio with no pertinent information"? And can you also say "publicity photo of a baby instead of the musician"? If you can say these three lines, then you can begin to understand this disc. Meandering, wandering, seemingly aimless electronic landscapes that are actually quite enjoyable to listen to. No, this doesn't blow me off my uncomfortable little office chair...but I do find it quite pleasant. I always admire an artist who has no regard whatsoever for the media. This guy's doing some very subtle yet intriguing work (he's also in the band Space Needle). I like it.

ROCKET FUEL IS THE KEY - Consider It Contempt (CD, Thirsty Ear, Rock)
Hard, hard, hard rock. This Kansas City trio sounds angry as hell, thrashing, crashing and trashing their instruments like there's no tomorrow. This is so noisy and harsh that it's going to alienate most folks, but I'd say those wonderful little punks out there are gonna love this. Huh? What's he saying? It's hard to understand any of the words to these songs, but no matter. It's the thought that counts. Twelve tunes that you wouldn't want to take home to meet your mother. I like this, if only because it's going to drive most of my friends completely UP THE WALL... B=Much better than most of the thrash bands I've heard of late.

7 YEAR BITCH - Gato Negro (CD, Atlantic, Rock)
Four girls with plenty of attitude and more balls than most male rock musicians. Sure, there's that grunge factor happening here (they ARE from Seattle, after all), but these girls are more inventive than that. They toss around lots of different rhythms and styles of music, and then spew it all out in their own irrepressible style. I really like "Crying Shame" and "Miss Understood" in particular, but just about all of these twelve tunes rock out in a nice sort of way. Of course, what really sets these chicks apart from most other girl bands is that they can really play and sing. I've never seen 'em in concert, but after hearing this disc I'd sure like to. A fine romp through a bitchin' rock and roll swamp. Huh!!!

THE SCREAMIN' CHEETAH WHEELIES - Magnolia (CD, Atlantic, Rock)
I like the music, but that vocalist just HAS TO GO... Bleah.

SHAT - Are You Choking? (CD, Fuse, Rock)
Nice modern progressive rock music from Chicago's Shat. These four high-schoolers have a sound way beyond their years, playing intense rock music with lots of peculiar changes in speed and volume. Prior to releasing this, these guys put out a single after their freshman year in high school ("Quite the Whore" b/w "Showjumper"). Most kids in high school only dream of doing this kind of thing. These guys are actually doing it. This is a good collection of tunes from a group of fellows who seem destined for success.

SHOEGAZER - Two Boxing Brown Bears (CD, T.O.N., Rock)
The first time I put this CD in my player, I wasn't too impressed. Then the tune "Beautiful" started pumping through the speakers and my attitude changed completely. Combining all the best elements of British punk from 1977, the tune is pure bliss with the unforgettable lyric "We're all going to die and I think it's beautiful." Poignant, no? These guys are not a one song band, though. They've got plenty of meaty tunes to feast on here. Check out the introductory instrumental "Throw It" or the tongue-in-cheek "Butterworth." Combine a sense of humor with a sense of urgency, add about a pound of crystal speed and there you have it: Shoegazer. Tons of upbeat fun for the entire family. Contains unlisted bonus tracks...

THE SIGHT-SEERS - Fun-Seeking With the Sight-Seers (CD, Shotput/57, Pop)
Pleasant pop music with a great deal of commercial appeal. These guys are certainly competent musicians, able to create a steady groove and hold it for the entire song. While I like this disc, the songs are hits and misses. I don't care for stuff like "Gimme Five!", but I sure get a charge out of "Away (Gone For Good)" and "Continuum."

SKOLD - Skold (CD, RCA/BMG, Industrial)
This is actually a solo album by a guy named Tim Skold. Tim recorded most of this music in his bedroom studio, which in itself is rather astounding. Instead of sounding like some bad homemade project, this music pulses and vibrates with intense energy. These tracks sound BETTER than much of the industrial stuff I hear that is recorded in big studios. Pained, strained vocals combine with some nightmarish, harsh sounds to paint a picture of the world that's not so pretty. All in all, however, this one ROCKS. Ten tracks of industrial gloom.

SKREW - Shadow of Doubt (CD, Metal Blade, Industrial/rock)
Big, loud, harsh, and NASTY. Skrew once again dish up an ugly batch of music not intended for the faint of heart. Interesting industrial rhythms combine with screeching vocals and peculiar arrangements, and the result is a rather pleasant yet nightmarish vision of the world. Ten tunes, including "She Said," "Knotted Twigg," "Going Down," and "Crawl." This band is not for everyone, but then they don't try to be. These men sound like they mean it. This one's a MIND BLOWER.

SLEEPER - The It Girl (CD, Arista, Pop/rock)
I absolutely HATED the last CD by Sleeper. I'm not sure whether it was the music or just a bad mood I was in. Maybe I'm feeling better today or maybe this disc is just better than the last. Whatever the case, I rather enjoy this goddamn CD. Upbeat, very British pop music with female vocals and cool guitar stuff. Apparently this band has already hit it big in their homeland, but I don't think they've translated that same success to the states. Twelve songs here, and they display a rather broad range of musical styles. I guess this disc just goes to show that playing shows with bands like R.E.M. and the Cranberries does not necessarily mean that you are a pile of shit. It's commercial, yes, but I like it too. Best tune: "Dress Like Your Mother."

SLOBBERBONE - Crow Pot Pie (CD, Doolittle, Rock)
Hailing from Denton, Texas, this band plays country-tinged, upbeat rock music with passion and style. From the sound of this disc, it sure sounds like these guys can get a crowd moving in a bar. Thick guitars and gutsy vocals are this band's trademarks, but it's all supported by a strong rhythm section. Particularly strong are "Whiskey Glass Eye" and "I Can Tell Your Love Is Waning." This is pure beer drinkin' (make that swillin') music. Not that different than a lot of other bands out there, but for some reason these guys are a lot more believable than most... They sure sound like were havin' some fun recording this!

PATTI SMITH - Gone Again (CD, Arista, Pop/rock)
Get ready folks... PATTI SMITH IS BACK!!! One of the most influential rock ladies of all time has her feet once again planted squarely in the recording studio...and the results are astounding. Unlike any other female singer/songwriter that's ever existed, Patti has always had an unusual style...melding poetry with music in a most peculiar fashion. Though Patti made her biggest dent in the seventies rock scene, she's lost none of her passion, energy, and integrity. True, she's not screaming out tunes like "Rock and Roll Nigger" anymore... Patti's more mature now , and her music reflects that maturity. Softer but no less dramatic, check out the power of Patti on "About a Boy," with it's frightening sound effects or, better yet, "My Madrigal," which sounds very much like Eric Carmen (!). Ms. Smith is one of the most original artists ever to hit the planet, and she continues to follow her muse...always more concerned with her art than with commercial success. Wow.

SNUFF - Demmamussabebonk (CD, Fat Wreck Chords, Rock)
Can't wait for the new release from Bracket? If not, you might make a move to pick up the latest CD from London's Snuff. Hard rockin' power pop/punk with plenty of catchy melodies infused throughout, this music rocks hard but never forsakes melody for power. This band broke up in 1991 and then reformed in 1994, though this is the first release that I've heard from them. I'm usually not too impressed when bands reform, but when I've never heard them in the first place I simply don't have a reference point. Accordingly, this sounds damn fresh and fun to me, and I'd have to give Snuff a big THUMBS UP. They really do sound A LOT like Bracket...which is okay by me!

EPIC SOUNDTRACKS - Change My Life (CD, Bar/None, Pop)
Epic Soundtracks is a major force to be reckoned with as a songwriter. The guy's got some track record. Previously a member of These Immortal Souls, the Red Crayola, Crime and the City Solution, and the Jacobites, Epic set off on his solo career in 1992. Though the press release that accompanied this disc describes Mr. Soundtracks as a cross between Alex Chilton and Harry Nilsson, to me he actually sounds more like Lloyd Cole (which is by no means a cut!). These tunes are basic piano pop, with catchy, flowing melodies that are instantly likable. The only thing that didn't hit me right about this disc was the Big Star cover. As a teenager I loved Big Star too. But when is everyone going to stop beating a dead horse? This is a very good CD...but I think in another year or two this man's going to produce some REAL masterpieces. I feel certain he's got it in him.

ROBIN SPIELBERG - Songs of the Spirit (CD, North Star, Instrumental/piano)
I know, I know. You're saying, "'Songs of the Spirit'?!? Gimme a BREAK!" But hey, wait a minute and give this one a chance before you go knocking something you've never heard before. Robin Spielberg is a true talent. Her music touches on some very real emotions and thoughts that are shared by all of us, and she never has to say a word. Sometimes happy, sometimes sad, sometimes reflective, Ms. Speilberg's melodies consume and amaze me. Thirteen tunes that'll touch your heart. I mean that. My initial favorites are "A Song For Jennie" and "The Photographer." Fantastic. This is the stuff that dreams are made of.

SPONGE - Wax Ecstatic (CD, Columbia, Rock)
DAMN THIS SOUNDS GOOD!!! I was impressed with this band's last full length, but this time they've REALLY outdone themselves. Sponge play a fuzzy, urgent sort of rock music that isn't all that different than a lot of other bands out there...but they've got TONS more passion and REAL ENERGY! In addition, they've got some really cool lyrics and PRICELESS song titles. How can you hate a band that has not one but TWO songs with "drag queen" in the title? My initial top faves are "My Purity," "Got To Be A Bore," Silence Is The Drug," "Velveteen," and the title track. Believe you me, these guys ROCK. But they're also quite versatile. Sponge is a band to watch, and this is a disc you'll want to hear over and over again. Hats off, guys! This one's a HIT!

SPOT - Removals...Other Isms (CD EP, No Auditions, Eclectic)
Primarily known for his production and engineering skills with bands like the Meat Puppets, Minutemen, Redd Kross, Descendents, Butthole Surfers and others, this CD EP just might surprise you. Instead of alternative rock music, Spot produces spontaneous, obtuse music that sounds like a blurring of bluegrass, country, and Irish folk music. And he melds them all together seamlessly into his own unique style of music. To say this is vastly different than anything out there is an understatement. In fact, the only negative thing I can say about this CD is that it only contains 5 tunes. This guy is GOOD. I'd love to hear a full-length release from Spot...

RUSS STEDMAN - Oscillate Wildly (Cassette, Jovial Milkman, Rock/pop)
Russ Stedman has become a legend in the underground, possibly because the man continues to put out creative self-released cassettes at lightning speed. Intent on out-creating and out-recording almost everyone, Russ is interesting in that his projects almost always turn out great. And the guy doesn't really sound like anyone other than himself. Always entertaining and original (and at times ridiculous and funny), Russ Stedman is a true original. As always, this tape can be had for a mere $5.00 by writing to Jovial Milkman, P.O. Box 89224, Sioux Falls, SD 57109-9224.

STOP - Never (CD, Bomp!, Rock)
Far too many bands never learn rule number one in writing and recording, which is to KEEP IT SIMPLE. New York City's Stop seem to keep this rule in mind throughout their debut CD, and as a result they get a definite thumbs up. I guess when you have good songs you don't have to try and gloss things over with technology, eh? Anyway...this trio is a GREAT deal of fun, playing (for the most part) buzzsaw guitar rock that's fun and funny to listen to. Hell, Handsome Dick Manitoba even handles the lead vocals on one track here (plus Lester Bangs' voice creeps in on one track). Featuring some of the better elements of 80s and 90s rock music, Stop gets the go ahead for CERTAIN. This rocks out TOTALLY.

SUCKERPUNCH - Suckerpunch (Advance CD, MCA, Punk/power pop)
Somewhat like a cross between the Sex Pistols and Bracket, Southern California's Suckerpunch are one hard-hitting rock band. The band has a penchant for playing unrelenting rock music with real passion, and they never forsake melody in their quest for making loud noise. The band's trademarks are buzzsaw guitars, snotty vocals, and anthemic choruses. There are way too many punk bands out there with no songs to back up their attitude. Suckerpunch is an exception to the rule, in that their songs are both hummable and catchy (many times bordering on power pop). I particularly like the opening track ("Shitlist").

SUPER DELUXE - Famous (Advance cassette, Revolution, Pop/rock)
ANOTHER band with the word "super" in the title? Hard to believe, yes, but even harder to believe is that this is yet ANOTHER superb "super" band. This is the first release on the new Revolution label, and what a way to kick things off. Pure, power pop driven with smooth, catchy melodies and way above average vocal harmonies, this brings to mind a whole slew of different bands...in particular early Squeeze. In my little world, one can never get enough of that happy, feelgood pop stuff...because it somehow has the effect of making me feel the world isn't horrible, ugly, perverted, and corrupt (which I know it really is). Still, anything that makes me forget about it gets bonus points. Good driving music, and excellent songs abound. My faves here are "Lizadrin," "Flustered," and "Holly's Dream Vacation."

SUPER JUNKY MONKEY - A I E T O H (Import CD EP, Sony, Hard rock)
This is the harshest all-girl Japanese band I've ever heard. Actually, this is probably the FIRST totally harsh all-girl Japanese band I've ever heard. Whatever the case (pant, pant, pant...) these bitches spew out a bunch of hard-to-listen-to noise on this little EP. If you think this is another Shonen Knife, think again. These girls have more in common with Sepultura than their other Asian counterparts. In all honesty...and although I do like this...this band does sound like a lot of other hard rock/noise bands out there. The live show may be the key here, however, so I look forward to catching these girls live to see how they come across in person. Until then, I'll be TRYING to digest these four tunes. Arrrrrrgh........

SURVIVAL OF THE FATTEST - Fat Wreck Chords Presents... (CD, Fat Wreck Chords, Rock/Various Artists)
For some of the very best in power pop/punk, Fat Wreck Chords almost wins hands down. I've yet to hear a band on this label that I didn't at least like. For a quick overview of where the label is at in1996, this CD will clue you in quick. Featuring no less than seventeen tracks (!), bands featured include Hi-Standard (these guys are GREAT!), No Use For a Name, Snuff, Lag Wagon, Tilt, Bracket (always a favorite here in babysueland), and Me First and the Gimme Gimmes (great band name, eh?). Pure, upbeat rockin' fun. A cool compilation indeed...

DAN SUSNARA - Would (Independent cassette, Pop)
Chicago home-taper Dan Susnara has been recording and putting out stuff for quite some time now. WOULD is Dan's latest full-length release, and it contains fifteen cool tunes. Mostly acoustic-guitar based pop, many of these tunes have an almost gothic sound to them. Dan's a creative songwriter, and even though he notes that he uses "no tape loops, sampling or percussion," this guy still manages to squeeze some pretty bizarre sounds out of his equipment. Contact Dan at 7806 S. Kilpatrick, Chicago, IL 60652.

SVELT - Souvenir (CD, Schizophonic, Rock/pop)
Svelt features two former members of the Sub Pop band Sprinkler, which I unfortunately never heard. This three piece band (bass/guitar/drums) has a big, punchy sound and a sometimes obtuse approach to songwriting. What pushes these tunes over the edge for me is the vocals. Chris Slusarenko has a great voice for this type of music...and the guy's got a KILLER falsetto that I'd like to hear more of. Hailing from Portland, Oregon, this band formed in 1993...but this is their first full-length release. In all honesty, this doesn't sound all that different from a lot of other three-piece rock bands out there. But what sets Svelt apart from most of the others is these guys' come across sounding sincere and real. Add to that the fact that they've got some DAMN good songs...and you've got a goddamn fine collection. Eleven tunes. This cooks. Goddamn.

SWIRLIES - They Spent Their Wild Youthful Days in the Glittering World of the Salons (CD, Taang!, Rock)
The always peculiar Swirlies are once again...peculiar. Since forming in 1990, the band has released a slew of recordings (mostly 7" vinyl singles). This, their second full-length, finds the band in excellent form. Without using a single goddamn synthesizer, this band manages to come up with more odd sounds than most techno bands. Possibly what I like best about the Swirlies is their ability to scrape away at their instruments as if they're looking for blood, while singing in such a subdued manner that you'd almost mistake them for the Cocteau Twins. And you can never predict exactly WHAT they're going to do next. These thirteen songs showcase a band with a firm grip on what they're doing, and yet you can tell they're still allowing accidents to happen in the studio (which only makes the music more charming). Not the easiest CD in the world to listen to, this one does take some effort. But believe me (please?)...it's worth it.

T.H.C. - Death By Design (CD, Fifth Colvmn, Techno)
Hyperactive electronic dance music. These folks sure aren't afraid to turn up the speed control on that drum machine! Psychedelic and drenched in effects, these tunes would fit perfectly into any nightclub catering to the "alternative" crowd. While most of this sort of music simply doesn't translate well to the home studio, for some reason T.H.C. does. It could be those ghostly vocals and simple arrangements. Urgent, passionate, and strangely distant, this electronic band pushes the right buttons on their machines and comes up with a winner. Best tracks: "Allopathic Medicine" and "Directly From Satan."

TELEGRAPH - Experimentfarmroad (CD, Brazil, Instrumental/experimental)
Many musician not creative. Not have many good idea, create music not good for listen. Darren Callahan VERY creative. Make instrumental music not sound like other people. Darren write PLENTY song for CD (22 for inclusion). Not only LOT of song, all song GOOD. Darren originally in band calling OO OO WA (apparent was commercial flop, critical success). This reviewer like OO OO WA okay, but like Telegraph much BETTER. In fact, this CD one of favorite instrumental CDs of year thus far. This man not afraid to take chance, not seeming to give damn about commercial appeal. Dream-filled and hypnotic, this fill rice bowl to BRIM.

THERMADORE - Monkey On Rico (CD, Atlantic, Pop)
Nice sounding rural-type folky pop music. There's certainly nothing here that's going to change your universe, but at the same time this disc has plenty of enjoyable tunes that are nicely arranged and well-played. Not unlike some of the Kinks' more countryfied releases, this band has its moments of homespun fun. Best song for me is the tune "Go," which makes for some good drivin' music...

JOHNNY THUNDERS - Have Faith (CD, Mutiny, Rock)
As guitarist for the New York Dolls and the Heartbreakers, Johnny Thunders is an undisputed legend. While this CD showcases Mr. Thunders great talent as a guitarist, it unfortunately also shows what a lousy singer he was. Recorded live in Japan, this CD contains a lot of raw energy and excitement. The vocals just don't cut it though. This CD is being released on the five year anniversary of Thunders' death. His guitar playing is surely missed. But thank God we won't have to be subjected to his singing anymore...

TINKER - Receiver (CD, Bear, Rock)
There are noisy bands and then there are bands that are noisy. Is there a difference? Does it really matter? Well, in the case of Tinker, it does matter. These folks make a lot of noise with their instruments, but they are not mere noisemakers. Not unlike St. Johnny at times, this band has the hooks and melodies to drive their noisy, chaotic music in directions where most bands won't or can't tread. The shifts and changes in intensity are intriguing and the production is just right. Eight tunes, and they all cook. I particularly like "Baba Zarda and "Blinder." Bear Records is a label putting out some DAMN fine stuff. Check this one out, for sure...

TITANIC LOVE AFFAIR - Their Titanic Majesties Request (CD, No Alternative, Rock/pop)
If the Replacements had formed in the 90s and had a stronger pop sensibility, they might very well be Titanic Love Affair. This band is, above all, VERY radio friendly. In fact, this stuff is so poppy and polished that it may scare many folks away. Perfection is a good thing, but at times the overly glossy sound comes across sounding sterile. Even though, these guys have some exceptional tunes and they've sure got those vocal harmonies down... When they're good they're REALLY good ("Pull You Through"), and when they're average they're, well...average ("Living On the Wrong Side").

PETE TOWNSHEND - Coolwalkingsmoothtalkingstraightsmokingfirestoking: The Best of Pete Townshend (CD, Atlantic, Pop)
To be one of the most influential rock songwriters of the past few decades, Pete Townshend's solo work (outside of the Who) has never seemed to find an audience. This compilation of tracks from Pete's solo career may change that, or at least make his work more familiar to a wider audience. Much of the Who's early and mid-period recorded work was exceptional, to be sure. For some reason, Pete's solo work has never seemed to measure up. Whether it's too calculated or too highly produced is up for debate. Some of this stuff is okay, but for the most part it leaves me cold...

TOY - Everything Seems... (CDI, Human Entertainment, Pop)
Smooth programmed pop music. This interactive CD contains four versions of the tune "Everything Seems." In the same general category as Kate Bush, Toy has several appealing elements: cool vocals, inventive samples, and above all a good sense of melody. It's hard to say much more based on hearing just one tune, but at this point I want to hear more...

TRIP 66 - Trip 66 (Vinyl EP, Ruffhouse/Columbia, Rock)
For other folks out there who feel that PJ Harvey sold out totally on her last disappointing CD, Trip 66 may just fill that void. Hard, crashing, masculine rock music fronted by a female vocalist who knows how to ROCK. The band recorded this EP in their basement studio, and they did an excellent job at the control board. Crisp, clean tunes pulsating with tons of energy. Of course, the tunes are what matter most...and the band comes up with some real kickass melodies on this EP. An excellent debut...and this just makes me want to hear MORE. On cool PURPLE vinyl...

TRIPLE FAST ACTION - Broadcaster (CD, Capitol, Rock)
Even though I don't keep up with such things, I'd betcha these guys are burning up the airwaves on college radio. Their songs contain all the variables that add up to college radio hits. Urgent vocals, heavy rhythms, anthemic choruses...this is the kind of stuff that most likely will only appeal to college students, but hey...there's nothing wrong with that. There are some good tunes here ("Anna" and "American City World" in particular). The only problem I have with some of these songs is that they aren't exactly the most original things I've ever heard. But what do I know? I don't know shit. Make up your own mind on this one.

NIK TURNER - Past or Future? (CD, Cleopatra, Space rock)
Wanna get high but don't like drugs? Here's some music that'll getcha REALLY high... Synthesized, spaced-out, trippy Nik Turner has become more and more influential over time. Originally one of the innovators of the legendary Hawkwind, Nik created the Space Ritual band to recreate some of the wonders of the past. The band includes members of Zero Gravity, Farflung (YEAH!), and Pressurhed as well as violinist Simon House. This live recording includes fourteen tracks, including such unforgettable gems as "Warriors On The Edge of Time," "Silver Machine," and one of my all time favorites, "You Shouldn't Do That." Call if jazz, psychedelia, experimental, whatever...Nik Turner continues to boldly go where no man has gone before. When I was listening to Hawkwind in high school, I wouldn't have ever guessed there would be so much interest in the band this many years later...

URUSEI YATSURA - Kewpies Like Watermelon (CD EP, Che, Rock)
Boy, I'm at a loss about the title of this one. I had heard another EP recently by Urusei Yatsura that blew me away. This one has the same effect. This must be Scotland's answer to the Young Fresh Fellows. Pulsating, passionate, catchy rock music stripped down and fast. This EP (on the notoriously incredible Che label) contains but four songs, but they all rock like holy hell. After two EPs, I'm ready to rock out with a full-length from this dynamic little band that has captured my heart and soul. This is punchy as SHIT. Yeah, Daddy likes this one...A LOT.

VELOUR100 - Fall Sounds (CD, Tooth & Nail, Pop)
Velour100 is a duo consisting of Amon Krist (vocals) and Trey Many (instruments). Trey is also a member of the highly experimental His Name Is Alive, a group that I regard very highly. I can hear touches of His Name Is Alive in this project, but the songs are much more accessible. Trey writes some damn good music, and Amon's vocals glide over the arrangements quite nicely like falling leaves. Though things do surge and get noisy at times, for the most part these tunes are soft and reflective. Interesting guitar and piano lines abound on this disc, and there's just the right touch of experimentation to keep things from getting boring. Nice stuff, and this doesn't sound like anything else I've heard this month. Smoooooooth and niiiiiiiice... Ah...

THE VERVE PIPE - Villians (CD, RCA/BMG, Rock)
Dense, commercial radio rock/pop music. The Verve Pipe hail from Lansing, Michigan. The band plays an urgent, passionate style of music that would fit very comfortably on most commercial FM radio playlists. I'd be interested to hear the band's prior two independent releases to see how they sound in contrast to this release, because in my opinion (once again) Jerry Harrison gets carried away with production and ends up making the band sound somewhat generic. There are actually a lot of things to like about this band, but it's hard to get a good grasp on this one because there's so much damn polish on these tracks...

WESTON - Got Beat Up (CD, Go-Kart, Rock)
Nice, spontaneous rock band that reminds me of the Embarassment (could be those obtuse speak/sing vocals). With song titles like "Retarded," "Your Summer Dresses Bore Me," and "Heartbreak Sandwich," you KNOW these guys have their hearts in the right place. Instead of sounding canned and overly practiced, this batch of tunes comes off sounding so fresh you'd swear the band recorded 'em in the studio (Maybe they did...who knows?). Go-Kart is certainly a label to trust, and once again they score with this release. Fourteen tunes of pure rock angst.

YUM YUM - Dan Loves Patti (CD, TAG, Pop)
Pensive, breathy, heavenly pop music. Basically the project of a fellow named Chris Holmes, this group has a flexible line-up that changes depending (probably) upon who Chris is hanging out with at the moment. The music of Yum Yum is acoustic-based, straightforward pop in the purest sense of the word. No atonal noise here...just smooth, well-arrnaged pop that goes down NICE and EASY. And Chris writes some KILLER tunes. Sort of like Matthew Sweet on downers, I find the more I listen to this the more I like it...