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April 2006 Reviews by
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April 2006 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
April 2006 Comment
Piece:
Will CD Prices Ever Come Down...?
We've suggested this before but the issue warrants another attempt to try to persuade those who are pricing music these days.
More and more CDs with copy protection are popping up all over the place lately. But thus far these types of CDs seem to be causing more problems than they solve. Rather than helping the artists' careers and retain revenues that might be lost...they end up ruining careers and causing lost sales...all because some greedy people are hellbent on trying to milk the public for every buck they can get.
The truth of the matter is that CDs are OVERPRICED. Look at what has happened with DVDs. Sure, some of the newer ones are pricey...but many of the older and more common titles can easily be found now for about $5.00 or $7.00.
If music folks were to follow suit...and lower the price on most CDs to around $5.00 to $7.00...they would very well find that sales would go up, up, UP...because people would then be much more inclined to buy discs rather than download music and make copies.
The film industry has already lowered the prices on thousands of older DVD titles. As a result, they are selling MILLIONS and MILLIONS. Very, very smart. Just lower the price...and make up for it by selling millions more.
If music CDs were priced fairly...decision makers could stop snorting and bleeting about lost profits...and concentrate on the business they are supposed to be in...which is making great music accessible...and affordable...to the public.
But don't hold your breath. Instead of doing what makes sense, chances are that most companies will continue to dig the trench deeper...and deeper...AND DEEPER...until they finally end up pricing themselves right out of business.
It's funny how...even when a logical solution is being shouted at them from all directions...some folks just REFUSE TO LISTEN.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
About - Bongo (CD, Cock
Rock Disco, Pop)
Herky jerky modern pop that sounds something like an electronic version
of The Kinks mixed with The Flaming Lips...if they were all
20 years old and nervous. The folks in About are obviously fond of
mutating pop formulas. While the band's tunes are actually rather accessible
and surprisingly melodic...the manner in which they are presented is decidedly
unorthodox. While the light and breezy vocal melodies glide by, all kinds
of bizarre electronics seep in and out of the mix...continually keeping
the listener on guard. In the end, Bongo is a rather nice blend of
the familiar and the unfamiliar. The songs are damn catchy and hummable...and
the strange arrangements grow on you after a few spins. Thirteen tracks
here including "Think Niles Drink," "Nogato," "You
Got It and a Bit," and "Stack of Marshalls." (Rating: 5+)
Actress - Isolation (Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
Actress is a four-piece modern rock band from Chattanooga, Tennessee
with decidedly British sounding songs. Playing believable arena rock is
these guys' speciality. The tunes on Isolation are reminiscent of
bands like U2 and Simple Minds. While the band's music may
be out of synch with other bands in their home town, this album would not
sound out-of-place in the least if it had been on the British charts in
the mid to late 1990s. The band consists of Travis Knight, Todd
Bridges, Aaron Ficchi, and Josh Ficchi. If folks could
hear them, these are the kind of songs that could easily be appreciated
by millions. Top picks: "Blush," "Imagine an Explosion,"
"The Feeling We Forgot," "The Academy." (Rating: 4++++)
Against All Authority - The Restoration of Chaos and Order (CD, Hopeless,
Punk rock)
Still surviving with their essential energy intact after all these years,
Florida's Against All Authority have come up with another winner.
The band began in the early 1990s, but from the sound of this album you'd
never know it. These guys play buzzsaw punk that is influenced greatly by
British 1970s punk. Instead of calming down or changing their direction,
the band continues with their straight-from-the-hip-pocket approach. Taken
from a quote from President Dumbass (you know who), The Restoration
of Chaos and Order features punchy, loud, catchy tracks played with
genuine gusto. The rhythms are fast and furious, the guitars as thick as
fancy applesauce, and the vocals spewed with appropriate attitude. Fourteen
cool rockers including "All Ages Show Tonight," "Radio Waves,"
"War Machine Breakdown," and "Best Enemy." Great loud
rockin' stuff. (Rating: 5)
American Heartbreak - American Heartbreak (CD, Liquor
and Poker Music, Rock/pop)
Pure, classic, radio-friendly pop/rock played in the tradition of great
bands from decades past...most notably Cheap Trick. It has taken
the guys in American Heartbreak some time to get their career on track.
They released their first EP in 1997 but have only offered music sporadically
since that time. American Heartbreak is the band's second full-length
release, but it was worth the wait. These five fellows play with enthusiasm...and
their songs are instantly addictive and catchy. Folks who may be getting
tired of bands who are too adventurous (or others who throw vomitty crap-hop
elements into their music) will surely get a big charge out of this album.
You don't have to think. You don't have to listen to the lyrics. All you
need do is turn the volume up, up, UP...and you are guaranteed to
get a MAJOR BUZZ. Killer oughta-be hits include "Somebody," "Raise
Up Your Hands," "Unhappily Ever After," and "Isolation."
(Rating: 5++)
Mike Andrews - Hand On String (CD, Elgin
Park, Progressive pop)
If you read the press release that accompanied this CD, your reaction would
probably be similar to ours. Hmmm...there must be something credible
and unique about Mike Andrews' music...? Surely enough,
there is. This is an intricate album featuring songs that were most
certainly created out of pure love and personal integrity. Mike's tunes
recall some of the softer moments on Paul McCartney's first couple
of albums as well as some of the more reflective songs penned by Roger
Waters. His sound and style are all his own, however...and these twelve
tunes make this fact perfectly clear. We are always impressed by musicians
who don't seem interested in trying to please the public or write popular
songs. This man is writing music that comes straight from his soul. Amazingly,
many of the tunes come off sounding rather accessible and listener-friendly.
Destined to be a cult favorite in the years to come, Hand On String
is a mature, confident, infectious album. Killer tracks include "Something
Already Happened Again," "Tracings" (our favorite), "Love
Is Tired," and "Before the Echo." A truly great disc. Highly
recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
The
AV Club - The AV Club (CD, Insubordination, Pop)
Melodic catchy upbeat pop in the same general vein as Big Star and
The Young Fresh Fellows. This is the debut album from New Haven,
Connecticut's The AV Club. Instead of playing popular sounding modern
pop or alternative noise, these fellows play pure pop straight from the
hip with no unnecessary fillers. Songs are what make the band...and songs
are what this band is all about. These folks aren't treading any new territory...nor
are they trying to. Rather than attempting to be overly clever and
innovative, these folks are just playing good solid rock and roll. Buzzsaw
guitars, killer leads, spunky vocals, and a driving rhythm section combine
to create a cool and upbeat catchy wall of sound. Neat keepers include "Sweethearts
at 17," "Degrees of Grey," "Midnight Bus," "Don't
Take That Part of Me." Excellent. (Rating: 5+)
Buildings are getting
Bigger.
Cars are getting
Bigger.
Everything is getting
Bigger bigger bigger.(Rating: 1)
Birdies took her baby
And carried it away.
Birdies tore her baby up
And threw it in the
Hay.(Rating: 1)
Robert
Bradley's Blackwater Surprise - What About
That: New Year's Eve In Bloomington (Advance double CD, Kufala, Soul/pop)
Recorded the night of December 31, 2005 at The Bluebird in Bloomington,
Indiana, What About That is the first full-length live album from
Robert Bradley's Blackwater Surprise. Bradley began his career singing
on the streets in Detroit before making the transformation to a professional
musician in the 1990s. This double CD set is an instantly integral and essential
part of Robert's body of recorded work because it makes it clear to those
who have not seen the man that he is, first and foremost, a performer.
This slickly recorded album features eighteen cool tracks...and Bradley's
vocals are H-O-T from start to finish. In addition to the concert, the second
disc also includes three tunes recorded during the soundcheck ("Once
Upon A Time," "What About the Man," "Will the Circle
Be Unbroken"). If you're looking for great soul music with real punch,
you'll get a big kick out of these discs. The folks at Kufala sure know
how to pick 'em... (Rating: 5+)
Bugs
Multiply - Bugs Multiply (CD, Coma Gun, Pop)
Pure pop for positive people. Bugs Multiply is the trio consisting
of Matt Cox (vocals, guitars, keyboards), Rick Shore (drums),
and Hunter Kalman (bass). Rather than play noisy alternative rock,
these guys present surprisingly radio-friendly hard pop that is immediately
catchy and uplifting. Mr. Cox (the band's songwriter) comes up with songs
that borrow from 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s pop...reinventing them with unusual
chord structures and modern recording techniques. Fourteen smart tracks
here including "Loveyougone," "If You're Wrong," "Perfect
Scenes," and "All the Everything." Cool, clever, and upbeat.
(Rating: 4++++)
Candy Bars - On Cutting Ti-Gers in Half and Understanding Narravation
(CD, New Granada, Moody
progressive pop)
Although we hear dozens and dozens of new bands each month...it is rare
when we hear something that really doesn't sound like anything else. Florida's
Candy Bars is a band with a unique sound and vision. The band consists
of Daniel Martinez, Ryan Hastings, and Melissa Castellano.
On the confusingly-titled On Cutting Ti-Gers in Half and Understanding
Narravation, these folks have come up with a perplexing modern vision
of progressive pop. The band sounds something like Johnny Society...if
the music were sufficiently softened and funneled through a milky kaleidoscope.
The most unique aspect of this band's sound has to be the vocals. Martinez
has a strange raspy whispering voice that really makes these tunes come
across sounding most peculiar. We always loved John Cale's vocal
on the tune "Antarctica Starts Here" (from Paris 1919)
and wished he had done more vocal tracks like that. With Candy Bars, it's
like having Cale sing in that unusual timbre for an entire album.
Slightly spooky and surreal, this band is definitely off to an excellent
start here. Puzzling cuts include "Landscape," "The Flood
In Your Old Town," and "You Were Always A Horse." (Rating:
5++)
Ignorance is calming,
Seductive, and
Fantastic.(Rating: 1)
The
Church - Uninvited, Like the Clouds
(CD, Cooking Vinyl USA,
Pop)
Hard to believe this band has now been in existence for over 25 years (!)...but
it's true. Australia's The Church began playing in 1980 and have
been active ever since. On Uninvited, Like the Clouds, Steve Kilbey,
Peter Koppes, Tom Powles, and Marty Wilson-Piper play
with the intoxicating vitality of a band that has just learned how to record.
Rather than sounding dated and bored, these guys come off totally inspired
and reinvigorated (this could be due to the fact that there has been a renewed
interest in the band in the twenty-first century). Unlike many bands with
only one sound or style of music, the guys in The Church manage to merge
a wide variety of sounds and styles into their own unique brand of progressive
pop. Uninvited is a nifty album full of uniquely fulfilling smart
rockers...including "Block," "Overview," "Never
Before" (our favorite), and "Song To Go..." Excellent from
beginning to end. (Rating: 5++)
David Dault & Thad Thompson - Here is the Post Card (CD-R, Shoelag,
Pop/rock)
Pop/rock in the same general vein as Richard Thompson and Bob
Mould. David Dault and Thad Thompson traveled to Athens,
Georgia to record Here is the Post Card. These ten tunes are the
result. Dault and Thompson write and record guitar-based pop music with
a nice organic feel. Some of the tunes are acoustic while others rock rather
hard. The guitars are often dense and multi-layered...adding a slightly
surreal sound to some of the tracks. We are particularly impressed with
the vocals...impressive, heartfelt, and genuine from start to finish. Cool
compositions include "Easting by the Psalms" (our favorite), "My
Short Story," "Specific Gravity," and "Merkan Courage."
(Rating: 5)
Dirty
On Purpose - Hallelujah Sirens (Advance
CD, North Street,
Pop)
Blurry, somewhat muffled, slightly hallucinogenic underground pop that recalls
certain elements of Kurt Heasley's Lilys. This Brooklyn quartet
has a sound that stands out from the pack. They aren't playing any sort
of immediately familiar music. Hallelujah Sirens contains spacey,
obtuse tunes with strangely catchy melodies. The band consists of Doug
Marvin (drums, vocals), Joseph Jurewicz (guitar, vocals), George
Wilson (guitar, vocals), and DJ Boudreau (bass). Prior to releasing
this album, these guys already had critics raving about their previous EP
(Sleep Late For a Better Tomorrow). It's easy to see why. This band's
tunes are light years beyond what we normally hear. Unusual arrangements
and surreal vocals create a whirlwind of modern mental pop that goes down
nice, smooth, and easy. Cool creative cuts include "No Radio,"
"Your Summer Dress," "Car No Driver," "Marfa Lights,"
and "Fake Lakes." The album seems to have been mastered poorly
because you have to turn your stereo up a good bit to hear it. Perhaps this
will be corrected on the final CD. But not to worry. This album is still
highly recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Dirty
Rainbow - Death. I Was Sure Of It (Independently
released CD, Rock)
Playing it loose, loud, and full of attitude, the guys in Dirty Rainbow
churn out rock that sounds something like a cross between The Stooges
and Fu Manchu. By combining elements of early punk with 1990s stoner
rock, these guys manage to write and record rock music that is brimming
over the edges with focused enthusiasm. The band consists of Sterling
DeWeese (vocals, guitar), Mitch Rackin (bass), Jeremy Schoenherr-Lachance
(vocals, guitar), and Rashmi Viswanathan (drums). Death. I Was
Sure Of It is instantly effective and infectious. Cool cuts include
"Six in the Morning," "Sweet Jesus Why," "F is
for Fake," and "Mama Said." Good stuff. (Rating: 5+)
What make donkey go?
What make punkish drool?
Thing what is murky, funkish
Donkeyfuel.(Rating: 1)
Our Father
Who farts in Heaven.
Hallowed be
Thy farts.(Rating: 1)
The
Finals - Plan Your Getaway (CD, Immortal, Pop/rock)
Punchy loud melodic pop rock. The guys in The Finals hail from Bergenfield,
New Jersey (which is just outside of New York City). The band members have
all been friends since they were very young. Perhaps this is why they seem
to have such a focused and unified sound. Plan Your Getaway is a
surprisingly mature album, but even more so when you consider the fact that
the band only began recording demos in their basement studio about a year
before this CD was released. The album features upbeat, feelgood hard pop
tunes with soaring melodies and articulate arrangements. Jason Sazer,
Matt Reilly, Lou Bottone, Joshua Sazer, and Christian
Kisala aren't playing for deadhead dummies. Their songs are smart and
inventive...and recorded with finely tuned precision. Crafty compositions
include "Right Here," "Not Now," "Extended Autumn,"
and "Black Market Babies." Good stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Growing - Color Wheel (CD, Mega
Blade, Progressive/ambient/instrumental)
Swirling, heady, hypnotic instrumental music that brings to mind Brian
Eno and Robert Fripp's groundbreaking album No Pussyfooting.
The fourth album from Growing, Color Wheel is a soft, subdued
collection of hazy instrumentals. The album features six lengthy compositions
(the song titles are noticeably absent from the digipak sleeve). These folks
are obviously playing for a specific, esoteric audience. There are no drum
beats to dance to...no catchy choruses...no immediately recognizable song
structures...only peculiar odd electronics that seep in and out of consciousness.
Color Wheel is the kind of album that you put on when you want to
create a mood. Creating moods seems to be the main intent here, as the soft
and mellow electronics tend to bleed rather beautifully into the background...
Intriguing stuff. (Rating: 4++++)
Robin Guthrie - Continental (CD, Darla,
Instrumental)
Beautiful, absorbing, hazy, provocative atmospheric instrumental music.
Many folks may not know Robin Guthrie's name...but all serious music
fans are familiar with his previous band, Cocteau Twins. Considering
how many modern bands borrow ideas and sounds from Cocteau Twins, it seems
amazing that at the time the band began there was not another artist that
sounded anything like them. Over time, the band's influence has continued
to evolve and grow...touching and affecting multitudes of musicians. As
guitarist and producer for Cocteau Twins, Robin Guthrie was primarily responsible
for all those lovely, haunting, peculiar sounds in all those cool pop tunes
that so many of us know and love. Continental is Guthrie's second
solo album. It features ten spacey instrumentals that evoke distinct moods
and feelings. The instruments and sounds are fuzzy and ever-so-slightly
spooky. This album is a purely artistic endeavor in which Robin was apparently
driven mainly by the desire to create. Fantastic mental soundscapes include
"Continental," "Monument," "Radiance," and
"Last Exit." This will easily end up being one of the best instrumental
albums of the year. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Head
Control System - Murder Nature (CD,
The End, Rock)
Head Control System is the Norwegian duo consisting of Daniel
Cardoso and Kristoffer Garm Rygg (Cardoso was previously in Sirius
and Re:aktor and Rygg was previously in Ulver, Arcturus,
and Borknagar). Murder Nature is the first album that the
two have recorded together as Head Control System. Note that this does not
sound like a two-man project. The tunes on this album pack a big punch and
sound very much like a full band is playing. If you dig thick moody psychedelic
guitars and powerful masculine vocals, you will find a lot to love here.
Cordoso and Rygg write and record tunes that are obviously nonstandardized
and unusually obtuse. But while the proceedings are intense and hypnotic,
in most cases you can still dance to the music (!). Sounding something
like a hard rock and roll version of Nine Inch Nails, the guys in
Head Control System manage to be inventive, harsh, and purely driven. Punchy
rockers include "Baby Blue," "Blunt Instrumental," "Kill
Me," and "Falling On Sleep." (Rating: 5++)
Everything is
Impossible.
Everything has always been
Impossible and
Everything will always be
Impossible.(Rating: 1)
Islands
- Return to the Sea (CD, Equator, Pop)
Smart playful underground pop. Canada's Islands is an underground
pop band with surprisingly hummable happy tunes. Packaged in a beautiful
cardboard and plastic digipak sleeve (with lyric booklet), Return to
the Sea is a positive and uplifting spin. Although the tunes on this
album are basic pop, it is difficult to come up with comparisons. At times
Islands sound like Built to Spill...at other times XTC...and
at other times any number of underground pop bands from Athens, Georgia.
The band's multifaceted approach to songwriting may leave some listeners
confused. Exactly what kind of band is this...and which category
does the music belong in...? Such questions are irrelevant, as intent and
quality are what matters most. Accordingly, Return to the Sea is
infused with just the right intent and tons of quality. Infectious
and effective tracks include "Swans (Life After Death)," "Rough
Gem," "Where There's a Will," and "Ones." An interesting
note about this CD...there is no web site listed for the band nor
the record label...that may be a FIRST in the twenty-first century
(!). (Rating: 5)
Sex...
Itza bad!(Rating: 1)
Denise James - Promises (CD, Rainbow
Quartz, Pop)
The first thing we thought when we popped this disc into our player was...wow,
this reminds us of Outrageous Cherry and The Volebeats. It
was only later that we realized the album was produced by Matthew Smith
(who just happens to be a member of both bands and plays various
instruments on this CD). Promises is the third album from Detroit's
Denise James. What is most impressive about this disc are the songs.
There are no cover tunes here, only originals. Yet when listening to these
songs, you get the distinct feeling that these are classic hits from long
ago. Ms. James has a superb voice that fits her tunes perfectly (she is
obviously fond of double tracking her vocals). Anyone who loves the music
of the 1950s and 1960s...or anyone who loves great female pop...is
bound to go apeshit over Promises. This fantastic thirteen track
album features killer tunes such as "What Happened to the Love We Knew?",
"It's Never What You Say," "If You Weren't So Beautiful,"
and "Waited So Long." Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Jane
vs World - 56k Hearts (CD EP, Popboomerang, Pop)
Playing upbeat bubblegummy pop that is as cute as buttons, the girls in
Jane vs World are sure to turn lots of folks OFF. In general, pretentious
underground music snobs DO NOT want to hear upbeat happy pop. These girls
are about as happy and upbeat as you can get. As for our own peculiar tastes...we
LOVE THIS...! Playing sing songy pop with genuine spirit, Kate
Duncan and Jadey O'Regan's songs sound something like a cross
between Ben Folds, Shonen Knife, and The Muffs. These
girls aren't the least bit shy about being as clever and cute as humanly
possible. Their effervescent pop tunes feature smart hooks and perpetually
honest lyrics. It's a truly upbeat bubblegum world these girls are living
in. 56k Hearts is instantly groovy and totally infectious. Killer
tracks include "B-Grade Lisa Loeb," "Sebastian Says,"
and "This Song Is About You." Can't wait to hear more from
these talented Australian ladies... (Rating: 5++)
Jetpack - The Art of Building a Moat (CD EP, Heatstroke,
Pop)
Instantly catchy, powerful, melodic pop from Nashville's Jetpack.
This quartet plays classic radio pop that is timeless and irresistible.
There are no awkward noise passages nor is there any attempt to sound ultra
strange. These guys produce pop that comes straight from the heart and soul.
The playing is inspired and the melodies are exceptional. We couldn't help
but notice that these songs were recorded at the end of 2004...and are only
now seeing the light of day (?). Punchy, accessible tracks include
"Mathematics," "All Hail the Clown," "Your Little
Way," and "Stonehands." (Rating: 4+++++)
Knowledge is next to
Nothing.(Rating: 1)
Landspeedrecord! - Intermission (CD, Ambiguous
City!, Pop/rock)
Complex progressive melodic modern rock. This is a reissue of the Intermission
album (originally released in 2004) which includes a second bonus CD containing
previously released and previously unreleased tracks. There's a lot to take
in here. Between the two discs, this package features a total of 30 songs.
Landspeedrecord! tunes are slightly reminiscent of Built To Spill..mainly
because the tunes are loud and rock, and yet the vocal melodies are ultimately
catchy and uplifting. The band is driven by the songwriting talents of Charley
Jamison. This fellow has a lot to say and almost always manages to say
it in rather unique ways. Released to celebrate the band's tenth anniversary,
Intermission is a solid and entertaining release from start to finish.
Cerebral intelligent rockers include "Crack," "Guardian Angel,"
"Welcome to Baltimore," "Rat Race," and "Invisible
and Invincible." (Rating: 5+)
Linda
Lewis - Live in Old Smokey (CD, Market Square, Soul/pop)
Despite the fact that she has never achieved overwhelming worldwide success,
Britain's lovely and enchanting Linda Lewis continues writing and
recording music for her loyal and devoted fans. Live in Old Smokey
was recorded live at Ronnie Scott's Club in London. Linda's amazing vocal
range remains intact, as she and her band soar through fourteen tunes for
an appreciative audience. Old favorites are featured in the set list (most
notably "I'm In Love Again" and "Rock A Doodle Do")
as well as new tunes ("I Keep A Wish," "Waving," "I
Don't Do Don't"). This disc is sure to please folks who have appreciated
Ms. Lewis and her music over the past few decades (that most definitely
includes us). The only thing that we must mention is that you have to really
crank up the volume on this CD to get the full impact (this is most likely
a problem that occurred during the mastering process). (Rating: 5)
Lotus - The Strength of Weak Ties (CD, Harmonized,
Progressive pop)
Lotus is Steve Clemens, Jesse Miller, Luke Miller,
Chuck Morris, and Mike Rempel...five fellows who got together
in 1999 to write and record their own brand of music. What is perhaps most
interesting about this band is that--despite the fact that they are taking
a rather unorthodox approach with their career--they have been quite successful
thus far. Rather than play one particular style of music, these five gentlemen
pull ideas and influences from all over the map...merging all the disparate
bits and pieces into a rather intriguing style of modern progressive pop.
Combining natural sounds with electronics seems to come naturally for these
guys. The compositions on The Strength of Weak Ties are like modern
dub/jazz interpretations of progressive pop/rock from the past three decades.
Smart and inventive, this album should appeal to a wide cross section of
listeners. Ten tracks here, including "Tip of the Tongue," "Long
Legged Stumble," and "Sprout to Vine." (Rating: 5++)
The
Lovely Feathers - Hind Hind Legs (CD,
Equator, Pop)
This Canadian band has a sound that is similar to bands from Athens, Georgia.
The gentlemen in The Lovely Feathers play overwhelmingly creative
and exuberant melodic underground progressive pop with a difference. The
tunes on the strangely-titled Hind Hind Legs are complex and unpredictable...and
vary greatly from one to the next. We can usually decide how we feel about
most albums in a single spin. But this disc took several spins for many
of the tunes to sink in. Hind Hind Legs is an intriguing collection
of songs, but the album is...overall...somewhat uneven. But we still recommend
this disc because the good songs are really, really, really great.
Top picks: "Pope John Paul," Wrong Choice," "Lion Eats
the Wildebeest." (Rating: 4+++)
Magneto - Resistance Is Futile (CD, Popboomerang,
Pop)
The guys in Magneto are playing pop for folks "with short attention
spans who'll be able to digest our album in under half an hour" (a
direct quote from the band). Hey...that's us! Actually, the band's short
and sweet approach might not be so attractive...if it were not for the fact
that they write absolutely killer and instantly catchy pop tunes that are
OUT OF THIS WORLD. Folks who love Gigolo Aunts, Redd Kross,
Big Star, The Shoes, and Teenage Fanclub (hey that's
us...again) are bound to get a big mighty kick out of Resistance
Is Futile. The album resounds with pure feelgood exuberance. These guys
play with sincere focused excitement that is downright addictive. Hummable,
totally infectious tracks include "Underground," "Stronger
Everyday," "Falling," "Everything Has Gone," and
"Incomplete." This will easily end up being one of the best pop
albums of 2006. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5++++)
You are a man
And you are a
Mouse.(Rating: 1)
Manual
- Bajamar (CD, Darla,
Ambient/instrumental)
Manual is Jonas Munk Jensen, a Danish recording artist whose
music recalls Eno's early ambient works. Bajamar is a complex
and surreal collection of heady ambient recordings that swirl in the brain
and give the listener the feeling of somber meditation. We were impressed
with Jensen's last album (The North Shore), but this one is even
more inviting. Jensen may have been influenced this time around by ex-Cocteau
Twins guitarist Robin Guthrie (who just happens to also be on
the Darla label). Flowing and hypnotic, these tracks will appeal to folks
who truly believe that music can alter their moods in a positive way. Five
cerebral tracks here: "Bajamar," "Celebration," "Reminiscence,"
"September Swell," and "La Torche." Somber, hallucinogenic,
and beautiful. (Rating: 5++)
The Melvins - Houdini Live 2005: A Live History of Gluttony and Lust
(CD, Ipecac Recordings, Rock)
A while back there was a string of concerts given in the United Kingdom
called All Tomorrow's Parties. Several influential artists were asked to
perform. Artists such as The Stooges, Gang of Four, and The
Lemonheads. One of the bands was The Melvins, who were asked
to perform their entire Houdini album live. The resulting concert
was so well received that the band soon decided to record the album live
themselves (not live in front of an audience but live to tape/hard disk).
The result is Houdini Live 2005. This CD is a must have for Melvins
fans...as well as anyone else who appreciated what real 1990s grunge and
sludge pop was all about. The Melvins are one of the true powerhouse rock
bands on the planet...but what makes their music so effective is that fact
that they inject their loudness with tons of imagination and creativity.
The band's sense of humor is almost always in play, particularly so on this
disc. So...which is better...the original Houdini...or this
version...? Actually, they are both credible and entertaining...each
in its own way. This band never fails to please, tease, and top with cheese.
Yet another killer release from the mighty mighty Melvins. Recommended.
(Rating: 5++)
Minmae - Le Grand Essor de la Maison du Monstre (CD, Greyday, Progressive pop)
Minmae is one of the more peculiar underground progressive pop bands
in America. You never quite know what to expect from the band from one release
to the next. The band's last album (I'd Be Scared, Were You Still Burning)
was most impressive and surprisingly direct...and really sat right with
many folks. Le Grand Essor de la Maison du Monstre is a bit less
direct, incorporating more reflective improvisation and less catchy passages.
The songs are moody and fluid...almost jazzy in nature at times. Although
not our favorite Minmae release, this is a strong album with plenty of satisfying
tracks. Top picks: "Cold Steel Minders," "I Was at Johnnys
and He Played Phil Ochs," "Cash Out (or Spin)." (Rating:
4++++)
The nerve of some people.
The verb of some people.
The curve of some people.
The swerve of some people.(Rating: 1)
Place of Skulls - The Black Is Never Far (CD, Mainstream,
Rock)
Loud heavy stoner rock that should appeal to folks who have pledged their
allegiance to Black Sabbath's Master of Reality album. The
third album from Knoxville, Tennessee's Place of Skulls, The Black
Is Never Far is very loud and totally heavy. The band consists of Victor
Griffin, Tim Tomaselli, and Dennis Cornelius. Griffin
writes tough, masculine tunes that are centered around his huge overdriven
guitars and deep macho vocals. While Griffin provides the focus, Tomaselli
and Cornelius provide the tough pummeling drive that propels the sound.
Many of the tunes feature wonderfully gliding lead guitars that would make
Brian May proud. Hard rockers include "Prisoner's Creed,"
"Darkest Hour," "Masters of Jest," and "Changed
Heart." Good meaty tunes. (Rating: 4++++)
The
Poles - As Above, So Below (CD EP, Doubleplusgood, Pop/rock)
Sounding something like a modern underground version of Thin White Rope,
the fellows in Asheville, North Carolina's The Poles have a truly
unique sound. The band's music is driven by the exceptionally remarkable
vocal talents of Todd Lemiesz. The man has a raspy intense voice
that you have to hear to believe. Add to this the fact that the band has
some killer tunes...and you have a great little EP that is simultaneously
melodic and intense. The only bummer...is that there are only five tracks
here (!). But fear not...a full-length is due Fall 2006. (Rating: 5+)
Bruce
Robison - Eleven Stories (CD, Sustain, Pop/country)
Singer/songwriter Bruce Robison is, at least up to this point, better
known as a songwriter than a singer. Though most folks probably don't know
his name, millions know his music. Robison's songs have been covered
by some huge names in country music (Tim McGraw, Dixie Chicks,
Garth Brooks, Faith Hill, George Strait, and more).
Eleven Stories is an immediately impressive album that features Robison's
smooth melodic wordplay and gentle voice. These eleven songs were recorded
with three different bands...yet the album as a whole has a solid and cohesive
sound. If there is one word to describe Robison's songs, that word would
probably be sincere. Completely lacking in pretentiousness, these
compositions obviously came straight from this man's heart. Three songs
are covers ("Tennessee Jed," "More and More," "Bandera
Waltz")...the remaining eight are originals. (Rating: 4++++)
Secret Society - Sad Boys Dance When No One's Watching (CD, Acuarela, Progressive pop)
When we stop to think about it, we can't even begin to recall how many wonderful
obscure artists we have been turned onto by the folks at Spain's Acuarela
label. The folks at this esoteric operation have been exposing unique, quality,
unknown artists for many years now. Their roster continues to grow...as
well as their reputation for being able to pick the best of the best of
Spain's fertile musical underground. And speaking of fertile...Secret
Society is Pepo Marquez, a young man who has previously released
three EPs and has also had his songs featured on several different compilations.
Like other Acuarela artists, Marquez sings in both English and Spanish...which
expands his potential listening base and adds extra zest to his music. Sad
Boys Dance When No One's Watching is the debut full-length from Secret
Society, and it' s a keeper. The soft and subtle sound of these tunes might
fool one into thinking that the ideas behind the music are also soft and
fuzzy...but they aren't. The lyrics to some of these songs are unusually
harsh and sarcastic. Marquez has a great voice, superb songs, and a genuinely
unique way of getting his messages across. Top picks: "Moving Units,"
"Fight Fire With Fire," "My Relation With Above," "Old
Wooden Creaking Floor." Excellent. (Rating: 5++)
Seekonk - Pinkwood (CD, North
East Indie, Progressive pop)
Dreamy, subtle, soothing progressive pop. Seekonk is Sarah Ramey,
Dave Noyes, Jason Ingalls, Patrick Corrigan, and Todd
Hutchisen. This Maine-based band began as a three piece ensemble in
2002 and eventually evolved into their current line-up. At times the band's
music is relatively ambient in nature...while at other times they sound
something like an atmospheric hushed version of Ivy. The overall
tone and mood are much more progressive however. Impeccable arrangements
and acute attention to detail are a big part of the Seekonk sound. While
the music is soft and soothing, there is actually quite a bit going on in
many of these tunes...but you have to listen closely. These compositions
are deceptively smooth sounding. Pinkwood is an intricate album with
real depth that gets better with every spin. Cool tracks include "Love,"
"Air," "Take My Wife," and "The Great Compromise."
Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Let's all go to
Sissy School
So we can be
Generic.
Let's all go to
Sissy School so
We can be like
Erik.(Rating: 1)
Small
Sur - Small Sur (CD-R EP, Beechfields, Soft pop/folk)
Nice, relaxing, subtle, sincere, intelligent soft folky pop. This is the
first release we have heard from Small Sur. Obviously a labor of
love, this EP features eight smart melodic songs. The light and airy arrangements
are a perfect fit for these tunes. These compositions are as good or better
than anything we've heard on larger independent and major labels. One of
the greatest things about reviewing music is finding unknown treasures like
this. Exceptionally rewarding tracks include "Raining in the Suburbs,"
"April Moon," and "Yosemite." Superb. (Rating: 5+)
Sool - Sooltime (CD, Dren,
Pop/rock)
We've always been big fans of succinct songs. So we were naturally impressed
by the fact that the latest Sool album features a whopping 52 short
tracks. The band consists of Pete Weiss (of the Weisstronauts),
Neal Spaulding (of the Dynamite Brothers and Two Dollar
Pistols), and Kevin Quinn (of Mercy James and Weisstronauts)...along
with various friends lending helping hands. Some might find this album to
be a difficult listen because songs switch so quickly from one to the next...but
we find the approach to be clever and satisfying. Sooltime is simultaneously
accessible and artistically credible. The songs go all over the place yet
they all manage to be sufficiently entertaining. There's so much here that
we couldn't possible mention all the tracks without wearing out our fingers.
Some of our initial favorites are "Sooltime," "We Could Be
Happy," "Hot Banana," "Nudiste," "Timmy and
the Twister," and "The Questionnaire." Creativity gone wild.
(Rating: 5++)
Stereophonics - Live From Dakota (Double CD, Vox Populi / Nettwerk / V2,
Rock)
The first live Stereophonics album. Recorded to document what the
band considers some of the peak moments in their career, Live From Dakota
is a smashing statement of what they sounded like on their 2005 world tour.
The fellows in the band meticulously sorted through hours and hours of recordings
to find the one particular performance of each song that they considered
to be the most exciting. Many folks will probably be surprised at how rough
and raw many of the band's tunes sound live. These are true live recordings...there
are no overdubs or double tracking. If you hate Stereophonics and if you
hate live albums...you may still find yourself drawn to Live From
Dakota. This is a vibrant documentation of a band on top of their game.
Killer tracks include "Superman," "Pedalpusher," "Hurry
Up and Wait," "Jayne," and "Dakota." Really rockin'
stuff... (Rating: 5+)
Dave
Stoops - Spill Your Drink (CD, Sevrin,
Pop/rock)
Instantly likable catchy pop rock similar in many ways to Redd Kross.
Created and co-produced by Dave Stoops and Brian Berg (who
is also in the band 44 Long), Spill Your Drink is a cool hummable
collection of upbeat underground hits. Instead of trying to be outrageously
clever and innovative, Stoops opts instead to present his songs using classic
pop ingredients. The result is a timeless batch of tunes that--in a perfect
world--would be great big hits. Considering what poor taste most people
have, Spill Your Drink will likely be destined to be an underground
favorite. Killer guitars and excellent vocals reverberate through all thirteen
tracks here. Top picks: "Burn Too Bright," "Tarnish on the
Plate," "Invisible Again," "Mercury Night." (Rating:
5+)
Sugarplum
Fairies - Country International Records
(CD, Starfish, Pop)
Immediately effective and impressive modern pop. Sugarplum Fairies
is the duo consisting of Silvia Ryder (vocals) and Ben Bohm
(guitars, backing vocals)...plus a revolving cast of additional musicians.
Originally from Vienna, Ryder and Bohm now call California their home. These
folks' songs are in the same general vein as Ivy...the vocals are
immediately reminiscent of Dominique Durand. Sleepy, soothing, and
seductive, the tunes on Country International Records are thoughtful
and mature...and hold up to many repeated spins. The arrangements are a
perfect fit for the vocal melodies. This is an album that is certain
to stick. Ten intriguing tracks here. Top picks: "Villain of the
Day," "I'm Just Fine," "Not Smart At All," "Polyester
Poetry." (Rating: 5++)
Tits and teeth.
You only really
Think about them
When they
Hurt.(Rating: 1)
Mia Doi Todd - La Ninja: Amor and Other Dreams of Manzanita (CD, Plug Research, Soft pop)
Mia Doi Todd is a genuinely refreshing new talent who is rising from
the valleys. Her soft, poignant, sincere songs are refreshing and pure.
La Ninja is a bit of a departure, as the album presents (mostly)
other artists' remixes of Todd's tunes. While remix albums are not our usual
cup of tea, in this instance the interpretations are valid and intriguing.
Artists providing remixed tracks are Nobody, Adventure Time,
Dungen, Ammoncontact, Dntel, Campanella/Hellie,
Reminder, Flying Lotus, and Chessie. To make the album
even more inviting, Mia included three brand new compositions ("Norwegian
Wood," "Kokoro," and "Shikibu"). Another extraordinary
release from one of the best up and coming artists around. Mia Doi Todd
is purely entertaining and completely original. (Rating: 5++)
Ultra tacky people in their
Ultra tacky places.
Litter their bitterness
Regularly in their
Ultra tacky
Spaces.(Rating: 1)
Venice
Is Sinking - Sorry About the Flowers
(CD, One Percent Press,
Progressive pop)
Soft, personal, understated pop music. Athens, Georgia's Venice Is Sinking
is a band with a slightly surreal sound. The band's vocal melodies are reminiscent
of The Flaming Lips...while the instrumentation is more closely aligned
with progressive rock bands from the 1970s. This is an impressive album...particularly
when you consider the fact that this is the band's debut full-length CD.
Moody, reflective, intricate tracks include "Pulaski Heights,"
"Undecided," "Buried Magnets," and "Blue By Late."
An intriguing album that gets better the more you spin it. (Rating: 5)
Tamas
Wells - A Plea en Vendredi (CD, Popboomerang, Soft pop)
Tamas Wells is an incredible singer and songwriter. His vocals are
eerily reminiscent of one of our favorite vocalists of all time, Kirsty
MacColl (who is sadly no longer with us on earth). Wells writes deep,
beautiful, longing tunes that truly touch the heart and soul...occasionally
recalling the overall feel of a couple of the softer tunes on John Lennon's
Plastic Ono Band album. This man's vocals are totally out of this
world. Sadly, this album probably won't get that much attention initially.
The music is too subtle to receive a great deal of recognition this early
in the game. In the years ahead, however, you can expect this album to be
one of those that touches a great number of people on a very deep and meaningful
level (in the same way that Big Star's Sister Lovers did).
Yes, it really is that good. Nothing else needs to be said except
that we HIGHLY RECOMMEND this album WITHOUT RESERVATION. A Plea en Vendredi
is, quite simply, a beautiful and intricate masterpiece. (Rating:
6)
ADDITIONAL NOTE: If we were handing out a "label of the month" award...this month it would surely go to Australia's Popboomerang. Beginning the year with releases from Jane vs World, Magneto, and Tamas Wells...this label has thoroughly blown us away. 2006 is probably going to be Popboomerang's best year EVER. Hats off to these folks for releasing pure, quality music.
Dance with a corpse.
Snort with a corpse.
Pour quarts on a corpse.
Play sports
With a corpse.(Rating: 1)
Ambulance Ltd - New english EP
Anaananaan - Anaananaan
Animators - How we fight
Appleseed Cast - Peregrine
Backlash - Heliotrope
Beyond Fear - Beyond Fear
Big Tease - Beautiful addiction
Ellen Burr - Duos
Chris Carelli - Anthology
Nicky Click - You're already a member
Blair Combest - Blair Combest
Current 93 - Black ships ate the sky
Darling Downs - How can i forget this heart of mine?
Destroyed - Russian roulette
Ernest Goodlife Band - Good to be here
Evangelicals - So gone
Everchanging Nomad - Hero today...gone tomorrow
Evolutionaries - Exoskeleton
Five Mod Four - Whiskers
Follow the Train - A breath of sigh
Brian Gladstone - A time for new beginnings
Doug Gochman - Right onto the track
Gravehaven - Life as a verse / Past present past (CD single)
Grizzly Bear - Sorry for the delay
Hazard County Girls - Divine armor
Heavy Blinkers - The night and i are still so young
Hell Promise - Aim for hell
el Hijo - La piel del oso
Holy Fire - In the name of the world
Homeless J. - Three seconds to go
Greg Hoy - Tastemakers and heartbreakers
If All Else Fails - Don't forget to be angry
Irving - Death in the garden, blood on the flowers
Mike Johnson - Gone out of your mind
Killing Joke - Hosannas from the basements of hell
D.S. Lionfire - Jerusalem: A symphonic saga
Lokbra - Army of soundwaves
Lostep - Because we can
Dean Madonia - The light of reason
Dean Madonia - Madness and desire: One night in America
Manta Ray - Torres de electricidad
Richard McGraw - Song and void volume one
Fineian McKean - Shades are drawn
Miranda Sound - Western reserve
Missing Plans - In honor of your departure
Momzer - Goodnight nobody
Moonspell - Memorial
Nire - We all shine on
Object - The mirror world
Henning Ohlenbusch - Looks like i'm tall
OM - Conference of the birds
Marykate O'Neil - 1-800-bankrupt
Katrina Parker - Only dreaming
Partisan - The gothic and the gospel
Payola Reserve - One long apology
Pilate - Caught by the window
Pillows - Two step
Pinetop Seven - Beneath confederate lake
Polkaholics - Polka uber alles
Jo Potter - 8 circles
Radioinactive - Soundtrack to a book
Red Animal War - Seven year war
Rock Kills Kid - Rock Kills Kid
Royal Bliss - After the chaos II
Roy Owens Jr. - Good times
Run Chico Run - Slow action
The Ruse - Light in motion
Cameron Russell - Yesterdaydreamer
Michael Sanders and One Tribe Nation - Servants of a lesser god
Selmanaires - Here come the Selmanaires
Sexcop - Island of dreams
Shearwater - Palo santo
Sleepy River - The funeral birth of a tree
The Smacks - Protected by the ejaculation of serpents
Sodom - Sodom
Leeroy Stagger - Tales from the back porch
Stavesacre - How to live with a curse
Kara Suzanne and the Gojo Hearts - Aumsville EP
Televise - Songs to sing in A & E
Tiger Baby - Noise around me
Universe Narrows - Universe Narrows
Upwelling - Upwelling
The Vacation - The Vacation
Valumen - Science faction
Various artists - Dorm sessions volume 3
Various artists - 4boxs samplr.
Various artists - Invaders
Violins - Pink water
Chris von Sneidern - California redemption value
The Weisstronauts - Featuring "perky"
Western Civ - Regent kingfish slumperpad
What the...? - You have no idea!
The Year Of - Slow days
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