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April 2007 Reviews by
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April 2007 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= LIKE TOTALLY INCREDIBLE
= QUITE EXCELLENT
= OH SO VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
Ayaan Ali Khan & Amaan
Ali Khan - Truth (CD,
Koch, Progressive pop)
Truth is an intriguing album that combines these two brothers' love
of electronics with traditional Indian music. The album features super slick
production and state-of-the-art effects. Ayaan Ali Khan and Amaan
Ali Khan record music that effectively incorporates elements of soft
pop with classical ambience. This album has an epic, spacious sound that
can give the listener the feeling of being alone in the desert at night.
A few years ago this music probably would have been described as world music.
Nowadays such a descriptive term no longer seems appropriate as listeners
are becoming increasingly aware that all music is world music (!).
Truth is bound to appeal to a wide cross section of listeners. These
cerebral compositions are heady, soothing, and imaginative. Top picks: "The
Blessing," "Rays of Hope," "Ecstatic Connection,"
"Truth." (Rating: 5)
Alsace Lorraine - Dark One (CD, Darla,
Pop)
Alsace Lorraine is the musical project driven by the talents and
songwriting skills of Paul Francke. Dark One is a smooth and
moody excursion into the world of dreamy modern pop. Francke and his associates
seem to have the innate ability to layer just the right instruments into
the mixes to make their tunes work. What makes this album truly special
is the presence of guest vocalist Isol who is better known as the
lead vocalist in the band Entre Rios (a babysue favorite).
Isol's vocals have a wonderful presence and just ooze with genuine
personality. Combined with Francke's skills...the two manage to come up
with some absolutely killer tracks here. The inclusion of a couple of remixes
of cuts that appear earlier on the album seems a bit odd...but hey, you
can always burn a copy without the extra tracks...right? Dark One
is a smooth, easy spin...extremely subtle and serene... (Rating: 4+++++)
Ans.Andur - Topeltvikerkaar (CD, Seksound,
Pop)
Although many people may not yet be aware of it, there are quite a few outstanding
bands coming out of Estonia these days. Thanks to the folks at the Seksound
label, word of these bands is now quickly spreading around the globe. Ans.Andur
is a true Estonian band. These folks aren't pandering to Europeans or Americans
as they sing all of their songs in their native Estonian language.
This may alienate some listeners...but it also may very well draw in many
more over the long run. Topeltvikerkaar features eleven modern pop
compositions, each of which is surprisingly original and unpretentious.
The tunes on this album do have commercial appeal, but they are first and
foremost artistic creations in which the band members are allowed to flex
their imagination. Some of the arrangements and vocal harmonies are rather
heady and complex...sometimes almost jazzy. Intriguing tracks include "Idiootide
Kateeder," "Fuji," "Alt Kummiga," and "Audiovaras."
(Rating: 4+++++)
The Artificial Sea - City Island (CD, Travelling
Music, Progressive)
This Brooklyn, New York-based band's album has been released on the French
label Travelling Music...a seemingly appropriate home for this obscure little
duo. The Artificial Sea is Kevin C. Smith (who plays the music)
and Alina Simone (who writes the lyrics and sings). This duo creates
atmospheric soft pop tracks with strangely haunting melodies. Unlike many
of their contemporaries, these folks have the good sense to leave plenty
of wide open space in their recordings...thus allowing listeners to concentrate
on the substance that is inherent in the music. Combining snippets of ideas
from 1970s progressive rock with bits and pieces from 1990s slo-core bands...Smith
and Simone have managed to come up with an album that is uniquely soothing
and satisfying. Our favorite tracks are "Gloryhole," "Tunnel
Vision," "Things We Spent," and "Outpost." Nice
packaging on this one. Recommended for fans of Bjork. (Rating: 5)
Atari
Star - Aniseed (CD, Johann's
Face, Pop)
Surprisingly direct and unaffected melodic guitar pop. Atari Star
is led by Marc Ruvolo and Davey Houle who also run the Johann's
Face label. Upon spinning Aniseed, the first thing that struck us
was how this music doesn't really fit into any particular hipster categories.
It isn't emo nor is it power pop or anything that can be easily labeled.
Ruvolo and Houle seem to be writing music that comes straight from their
hearts. As such, these pop tunes have a nice, genuine, sincere quality that
is timeless and rather classic in nature. Some of the tunes are upbeat and
catchy...while others are somber and thoughtful. This is a short album clocking
in at just over 35 minutes. But in that length of time, these fellows and
their associates manage to come up with some truly meaty tunes with real
substance. Keen cuts include "This Is Where I Often Pause," "The
Be All End All," "Serpentine" (our favorite), and "Letter
to Ernst." Good stuff. (Rating: 5+)
The reception
Will be a failure
Because hardly anyone will show up
And those that do will be
Disappointed.(Rating: 1)
Julianna
Barwick - Sanguine
(Independently released CD, Progressive/experimental)
Julianna Barwick is one of a growing number of modern underground
female artists proving that boys aren't the only ones with the drive to
experiment. Sanguine is an unusual album in many ways. Many of the
tracks are more like audio experiments than normal songs. Ms. Barwick layers
vocals and sounds to create some otherworldly and rather beautiful compositions.
Her music has far more in common with modern classical artists than your
average pop band. This is a short album clocking in at just over 24 minutes.
But during that time, Julianna proves without a doubt that she is an artist
who refuses to fit into easily defined categories. Quite unusual... (Rating:
5)
Black Light Burns - Cruel Melody (CD, Adrenaline
Music, Rock/pop)
Limp Bizkit was a very dull and unimaginative band. We were bored
when we first heard them and we were always puzzled as to why so many people
would support such generic, ordinary music. Now that the band has split,
lead singer Fred Durst seems more interested in porking ugly Hollywood
whores than making music (big loss...heh heh heh...). But guitarist
Wes Borland remains committed to music. Since the Bizkit burned,
Borland has created several different projects. Black Light Burns
just may be the one that sticks. The band is absolutely nothing like
Limp Bizkit (thank God)...but sounds instead something like a raw
rock version of Nine Inch Nails. Borland has become quite the lead
singer nowadays...he can really scream his way through these industrial
rock tunes with pure, raw energy. Cruel Melody features thirteen
thick meaty rockers that are quite catchy and interesting. Our favorite
cuts are "Mesopotamia," "Lie," "4 Walls,"
and "New Hunger." (Rating: 4++++)
Blitzen
Trapper - Wild Mountain Nation (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop)
While many others fail, the guys in Blitzen Trapper have managed
to successfully record and release a quality album full of superb tunes.
Wild Mountain Nation is the Portland-based band's third release...and
it covers an amazing amount of territory in just over 30 minutes. The band
consists of six men...which may explain the wild variety of styles in the
music. On this short album these fellows manage to delve into obtuse rock,
melodic pop, country pop, experimental, progressive rock, bluegrass and
more. What might sound like a schizophrenic approach to recording actually
ends up sounding cohesive and satisfying. While occasional comparisons could
be made to bands like The Flaming Lips, early Pink Floyd,
and Guided By Voices, in the end these guys don't really have that
much in common with other bands. Wild Mountain Nation is a wildly
entertaining ride that gets better the more you ride it. Nifty cuts include
"Devil's A-Go-Go," "Wild Mountain Nation," "The
Green King Sings," and "Badger's Black Brigade." Imaginative
and quite often superb. (Rating: 5++++)
Chattanooga is
The greatest city
In the United States.
Thank God hardly anyone
Knows it.(Rating: 1)
Children like us
But we never wanted
To be liked by
Children like us.(Rating: 1)
Rob Crow
(Live performance, March 11, 2007)
We were fortunate indeed to catch Rob Crow live in concert during
one of the last shows of his first solo tour. While almost everyone in Chattanooga
wasn't paying the least bit of attention, one of the greatest shows of the
year was happening right under their noses. Opening up for Mr. Crow was
the local Chattanooga band Aphids and Mouth of the Architect.
The folks in Aphids played some particularly intriguing experimental music
that set the mood for the night. Up next were the perpetual head-nodders
in Mouth of the Architect. This band played a wild and furious merging of
death metal and progressive rock. Their music sounded great with the exception
of the generic screamer vocals. Finally and at long last, Rob Crow started
to play...and the club was instantly ON FIRE. If you aren't familiar with
Rob and his music, you must get your hands on his latest album Living
Well...it will without a doubt be one of the strongest and most memorable
albums to be released this year. Rob and his supporting band played most
of the songs off the album with a few others sprinkled in. The album itself
is a knockout...but it was even more of a mindblower hearing the songs played
live by a top-notch band. The material has real bite and punch...and we
found ourselves continually amazed at the complexity of the material and
how tight the band was. The music sounded something like a cross between
Built To Spill, Television, early Talking Heads, and
Yes. Crow seemed to be in a hypnotic trance while playing...he was
warm and friendly to the audience while delivering some of the most dizzying
and complex progressive pop on the planet. The small group that gathered
at the stage seemed somewhat frozen in the headlights during most of the
concert. Not surprising, considering much of the material was too bizarre
and spastic for dancing. We went to this show expecting something very good...and
left feeling as if we had witnessed one of the most amazing bands of the
twenty-first century. We can only hope that Rob will continue playing and
recording with his backing band. The entire concert was, in a word, AMAZING.
We also want to help spread the word to everyone in and around the Chattanooga
area about the club Lamar's. This venue HAS to be one of the coolest
places EVER for a rock concert. Lamar's is a somewhat cheesy old motel and
restaurant on a hill with a sign in front that is beginning to fall over.
The place is run by some nice black folks who have a reputation for serving
the "strongest drinks in town" (we don't drink so we can't verify
that). The environment at Lamar's was wonderful. Everyone we spoke with
was very warm and friendly...and we ended up having the feeling that the
band was playing in our living room. We will most definitely be back soon.
But, returning to Rob Crow... Some folks may, unfortunately, be writing
Crow off as a musician who has passed his prime. Because he is still primarily
known as a member of Pinback and is now a good bit heavier and stranger...his
newest solo recordings may leave a lot of folks scratching their heads.
We can only hope that enough people will support this fellow and what he
is doing. There are very few musicians in the world today with this much
energy, creativity, passion, and imagination. (Rating: 6+)
Dead
Heart Bloom - Chelsea Diaries (CD EP,
KEI, Soft pop)
The vocal harmonies on Chelsea Diaries are incredible...absolutely...incredible.
This band's vocal work is reminiscent of some of the better folk/pop bands
from the 1970s and 1980s...but the music itself is by no means retrospective.
Considering the fact that this band is currently treading in the musical
undercurrents, it is surprising how much commercial potential this album
has. Instead of underground artsy junk, these folks write real tunes
with great lyrics. The melodies are outstanding and far beyond what we normally
hear from unknown artists. The folks in Dead Heart Bloom have a real
winner on their hands here. Our only complaint is that by the time the disc
ended, we wanted to hear more. Killer tracks include "Who Will You
Love," "Chelsea Song #2," "New York City Heat,"
and "The Up and Down." Really nice packaging includes a beautiful
color photo booklet. Great stuff, recommended... (Rating: 5++)
Dora
Flood - We Live Now (CD, Elephant Stone, Pop/rock)
Many bands appear, make a big splash, and then disappear within a matter
of months. The guys in San Francisco's Dora Flood are taking a different
approach...slowly building and expanding their influence based upon good
word-of-mouth. We Live Now is a nifty, smooth spin that showcases
the band's pop sensibilities as well as their tendencies toward subtle psychedelia.
Produced by the band themselves and recorded onto two inch analog tape,
this album has a nice warm sound quality that is a refreshing change from
hearing too much digitally recorded music. Some of the tunes tend to rock...while
others are somewhat drony in nature. We find this band's guitars particularly
appealing. The layering of different guitar sounds definitely works in the
band's favor. This is an album that gets better with repeated spins. Dreamy
tracks like "Phoenix Rising," "Feels Like Yesterday,"
"Humble High" (our favorite), and "Light" make this
album a purely rewarding listen. Should appeal to fans of The Flaming
Lips and early Pink Floyd. (Rating: 5+
Linda
Draper - Keepsake (CD, Planting
Seeds, Folk)
We have been rather focused on Linda Draper's music for the past
couple of years...ever since we first heard the universally celebrated album
One Two Three Four. The first thing we noticed about Keepsake
is that (unlike her previous albums) it was not produced by Kramer.
As such, some of the strangely subtle studio tricks are missing. The second
thing we noticed is that these songs are slightly more accessible, normal,
and polished than Linda's earlier material. But songs are what make albums...and
Linda continues providing good, quality tunes on Keepsake. The real
treat, once again, are the lyrics. Ms. Draper has a way of arranging words
so that they are uniquely thought provoking. Accordingly, to really appreciate
this album, we would advise reading along with the lyrics to get the full
effect. We have to admit that we do miss Kramer's touch on these recordings...but
Keepsake remains yet another solid addition to Ms. Draper's impressive
catalog... (Rating: 5)
Mitch
Easter - Dynamico (CD, Electric Devil,
Pop)
When we heard that Mitch Easter was releasing a new album, we had
mixed feelings. We were mainly excited...but we were also worried about
the possibilities. After all, when most artists stop releasing music and
then return twenty years later they are either re-treading old territory
or they have totally lost the spark. Most folks remember Mr. Easter as the
producer of the first R.E.M. album or for the Let's Active
tune "Every Word Means No"...but the real meat of Mitch's music
were the non-hits that were only heard and appreciated by a relatively small
yet loyal fan base. But on to the present. Dynamico is...FANTASTIC.
This CD is Mitch Easter's most consistent and thoroughly engaging album
EVER. Instead of sounding old and burned out, Mitch still sounds like an
excited 17 year old. The tunes are vibrant and fresh...the vocals right
on target...and those unmistakable loopy guitars sound as good as they ever
did. Will this be the CD to push Mitch's career into the mainstream...?
Probably not. His songs are still a bit too awkward and peculiar for the
mass market. But our guess is that Dynamico will receive unanimous
praise from critics and fans. One thing is for certain. He was out of the
spotlight for far too long. Mitch Easter is back, THANK GOD. Let's hope
this will be followed by many more albums in the years ahead... HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
(Rating: 6)
Edie - Realities (CD, Stickfigure,
Soft pop)
Edie reminds us of Nico because she is both a musician and
a beautiful young model...but her music is actually more reminiscent of
Sonja Kristina because of her slightly spooky and subtle approach.
Born in The Netherlands, Edie eventually made her way to Paris, France...then
Sydney, Australia...then Los Angeles, California...and even Nashville, Tennessee.
Realities is an interesting collection of soft progressive pop compositions
that focus on Edie's soothing, breathy vocals. She isn't going the usual
route of writing and recording catchy girlie pop...her music is more more
esoteric and unconventional than that. After hearing this album a few times,
our guess is that Edie is going to build a dedicated following...but it
may be a slow process that happens over the course of the next few years.
Her music isn't immediately gripping...but rather slips into the subconscious
before having its full effect... (Rating: 4+++++)
Tim
Emmerick and Cold Front County - North
(CD, Red One, Rock/pop)
Good, solid, Americanized guitar pop rock. Recorded in one week in Brooklyn,
New York, North is a simple and pure slice of good old rock and roll.
Tim Emmerick has a great masculine voice that really makes his music
work. Rather than sounding like tired old blues-based rock, the tunes on
this CD have a spark that is sadly missing in many modern rock albums. The
tunes are, for the most part, easy and straightforward...and they do not
contain any elements that are not essential to the overall sound. Emmerick
may not win any prizes for the most original sounding songs on the planet...but
he more than makes up for this by delivering his tunes with guts, integrity,
and style. Punchy catchy cuts include "Black River Bridge," "Storm,"
"Signal Mountain," and "Mercy." (Rating: 4++++)
Foreign Islands - Restart Now (CD, Deaf Dumb + Blind Recordings,
Pop)
Extraordinarily catchy dance pop. This New York-based band plays a modern
brand of hard pop propelled by infectious beats and vocals that are drenched
with attitude. The guys in Foreign Islands keep their music relatively
simple...maintaining their focus on great beats, distorted guitars, and
simple vocal melodies. Restart Now is a very short mini-album clocking
in at just under 35 minutes (the final two songs are remixes of songs that
appear elsewhere on the CD). So...while you don't get a whole lot of music
here (only six actual songs)...the music you do get is really rather
fresh and exciting. If the next album is anything like this, our
guess is that these guys will very soon be setting the world on fire. Kickass
rockers include "We Know You Know It," "Fine Dining With
The Future," and "Ghost Story." Classy rockin' stuff... (Rating:
5)
Everyone stand around
Mourning the loss
Of someone whose life
Never mattered anyway.(Rating: 1)
Godrun Gut - I Put A Record On (CD, Monika
Enterprise, Obtuse electronic pop)
I Put A Record On is a very unusual collection of tunes that is sure
to make an immediate impression. Godrun Gut is the head of the Monika
Enterprise label...and has only now released her first solo album. This
CD features eleven moody, trippy art pop cuts and a video for the tune "Celle."
Rather than offer the generic and predictable electronic dribble that so
many artists churn out, Godrun creates subtle, moody, slightly creepy pieces
that are unusually intriguing. She layers peculiar electronics over simple
percussion and processes her odd, distant vocals so that they sound almost
machine-like. Listening to I Put A Record On may very well give you
the feeling that you are dreaming. Ms. Gut's strangely intellectual music
is fascinating and multi-layered...the more you hear it, the more the subtle
nuances of the music come to the surface. Stunning tracks like "Move
Me," "The Land," "Last Night," and "Tip Tip"
make this album a MUST HAVE. Highly recommended, without reservation...
(Rating: 5++++)
Hail
Social - Modern Love & Death (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Sounding nothing like your average underground art band, the guys in Hail
Social have a surprisingly upbeat, melodic, commercial sound that is
instantly appealing. The tunes on Modern Love & Death are reminiscent
of some of the better soul/pop groups of the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The songs are simple, direct, and catchy...and the band's vocals would certainly
make The Bee Gees proud. The analog keyboards add an extra inviting
flavor to the music as well. How many underground bands can you think of
whose music could easily catch on with both teenagers and baby boomers...?
This album is bound to go over well with tons of folks...if only they are
given the opportunity to actually hear it. (So many great bands get lost
in the rapids these days because of the volume of music being created.)
Here's hoping these guys great success in the months and years ahead. They
deserve it. (Rating: 4+++++)
Albert Hammond, Jr. - Yours To Keep (CD, Scratchie,
Pop)
Debut solo album from Albert Hammond, Jr. who is better known as
a member of the phenomenally successful band The Strokes. Produced
by Greg Lattimer, Yours To Keep is a resounding success. Some
of the tracks have a sound similar to The Strokes...but overall this is
a much more poppy release than a rock album. Many of the tracks on this
twelve track album seem to have been heavily influenced by The Beatles.
A great deal of time was obviously spent arranging and producing these tunes.
Instead of burying the songs in overdubs, the folks involved in this project
had the good sense to show some restraint when appropriate. Hammond has
a great voice that really adds warmth and depth to his songs. Pop fans will
no doubt go apeshit over cuts like "Cartoon Music for Superheroes,"
"In Transit," "Call An Ambulance," and "Hard to
Live in the City." A beautifully designed colorful digipak sleeve and
booklet complete this nifty package. Pop music that will stand the test
of time. (Rating: 5+)
Her hands were once so
Warm and tender
Until she put them
In the blender.(Rating: 1)
Emily Hay, Brad Dutz, Wayne Peet - Emily Hay, Brad Dutz, Wayne Peet (CD, pfMENTUM,
Modern experimental jazz)
Anyone familiar with California's strangest modern jazz musicians will immediately
recognize these folks. Emily Hay, Brad Dutz, and Wayne
Peet have all released albums under their own names. Now the three come
together for a collaboration that is certain to confuse just about everyone.
On this album, Hay plays flue, alto flute, and "sings" (more about
this later), Dutz plays percussion, and Peet plays organ, piano, and theremin.
This album is moody, strange, peculiar, and provocative. The music itself
is odd...but when you add Ms. Hay's vocals into the mix well...then things
really start to get strange. Emily is an experimental vocalist who
uses her voice as an instrument. When she sings her crazy gibberish she
sounds something like a cross between a brain damaged three month old infant
and an exotic bird. She chirps, screeches, spats, skats, whispers, and purrs...and
that's just the beginning. If your musical universe includes artists
like Kenny G, well then...you would probably best be advised to steer
clear of all three of these musicians for the remainder of your mortal
life. But if you're in the mood for some wild improvisational creativity...you've
found the right place. These three individuals seem to be a perfect fit
for one another. Great music, executed to perfection. Highly recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)
Helloween - Keeper of the Seven Keys. The Legacy: World Tour 2005/2006,
Live in Sao Paulo (Double CD, SPV
USA, Rock)
This double CD documents Helloween's ambitious 2005/2006 world tour
during which they played for thousands upon thousands of cheering fans.
Though this band has been at it now for a couple of decades, they show absolutely
no signs of wearing down or burning out. It isn't surprising that this band
has found such a large and devoted audience. Their music successfully combines
the best elements of heavy metal with complex progressive rock. An accompanying
double DVD is also being released simultaneously which features the usual
SPV high quality standards. If you have never heard Helloween, this is a
good place to start. If you're already a rabid follower...well then, this
is probably already on your must have list. Intense heady rockers
include "The King For a 1000 Years," "Mr. Torture,"
"I Want Out," and "Occasion Avenue." The guys in the
high and mighty Helloween continue to enthrall and compel... (Rating: 5)
House of Fools - Live and Learn (CD, Drive-Thru,
Pop)
The guys in North Carolina's House of Fools write and record extraordinarily
commercial sounding music...especially considering the fact that they are
an up-and-coming underground band (!). The tunes on Live and Learn
are so slick and melodic, in fact, that the band may have a bit of difficulty
making their initial splash. Bands usually start out loud and harsh...have
very little success...and then soften and alter their sound to suit a larger
audience. And then...voila...immediate financial rewards. These fellows
are obviously skipping step one, possibly hoping for a quicker entry into
the limelight. From the sounds we're hearing on this album, the guys in
this band certainly deserve any success that comes their way. They are really
and truly talented. Live and Learn features classy, classic pop that
harkens back to the 1970s and 1980s when bands were just beginning to go
nuts with the possibilities that technology allowed. Pensive, melodic tracks
like "It Could Be Easy," "Kiss the Haze," and "Better
Part of Me" should go over well with pop fans of all ages. (Rating:
4+++++)
When you wish
Upon a star
You will disappear
Instantly.(Rating: 1)
Iraq, Iraq, Iraq, Iraq,
Iraq, Iraq,
Iraq.
Quack, quack, quack, quack,
Quack, quack,
Quack.(Rating: 1)
Je
Suis France - Afrikan Majik (CD, Antenna Farm, Progressive/experimental/rock)
We knew from the very first spin that we would not be able to rate Afrikan
Majik using our usual rating system. Je Suis France is a group
of fellows based in Athens, Georgia who are playing a wild array of musical
styles all glued together into a bizarre patchwork presentation. During
the course of this lengthy album (clocking in at over 64 minutes) these
guys delve into psychedelia, pop, rock, experimental, ambient, electronic
and more. In trying to describe the music, we could say that the music sounds
something like a cross between The Young Fresh Fellows, Hawkwind,
Kraftwerk, and The Orb...but that wouldn't really get the
point across. Afrikan Majik is a weird spin to be certain. Is it
mere experimentation...or is it genius...? Only time will tell. In the meantime,
this band is bound to leave most folks wondering what the hell is
going on. Unpredictable music. (Not Rated)
Kaiser
Chiefs - Yours Truly, Angry Mob (CD,
B-Unique / Universal Motown, Pop)
Despite what many of us underground snobs would like to believe, underground
music doesn't always have to sound like underground music and commercial
music doesn't always have to sound commercial. Despite the fact that
they are an up-and-coming band, the five guys in Britain's Kaiser Chiefs
make music that could easily appeal to the mindless masses...even though
the music is actually rather intelligent and intellectual. Yours Truly,
Angry Mob features slick, hummable commercial pop with catchy melodies
and intriguing arrangements. Instead of offering harsh noise or artsy difficult
pieces, the band delivers their upbeat pop with energetic pizzazz. This
album has been released at a great point in time. These tunes ought to appeal
to lots of folks out and about who are wanting to spin some groovy music
just as spring is arriving. This may be a bit too slick and glossy for some...but
our guess is that most folks will find this positive pop to be instantly
addictive. Cool catchy tracks include "Ruby," "Heat Dies
Down," "Everything Is Average Nowadays," and "Try Your
Best." (Rating: 5+)
Lovedrug - Everything Starts Where It Ends (CD, The
Militia Group, Pop)
Thick, slickly produced modern progressive pop. The guys in Lovedrug
have a big polished sound that has already captured the hearts and imagination
of a great many listeners. Although still relatively unknown at this point,
the band will probably see their fan base increase exponentially over the
next few months. Our guess is that Everything Starts Where It Ends
is exactly what fans are wanting to hear. What is interesting about these
fellows is their ability to make accessible, commercial music while still
presenting complex, challenging songs that would usually be beyond the mental
scope of the general public. These tunes involve layers upon layers of overdubs
and state-of-the-art effects...but the real focus are the urgent and sometimes
almost bizarre vocals. Whether they're playing loud metallic pop, abrasive
progressive rock, or pensive ballads...these fellows manage to make it all
sound believable and real. Cool tracks include "Happy Apple Poison,"
"Dancing," and "Everything Starts Where It Ends" (our
favorite track). Sometimes just a bit overproduced but still...mighty good
stuff. (Rating: 4+++++)
W.W. Lowman - Plain Songs (CD, Arbouse
Recordings, Progressive pop)
Every once in a while we hear something and just don't know what
to make of it. Chicago's W.W. Lowman has created an album that is
puzzling in overall sound and scope. Plain Songs is a collection
of tunes Lowman wrote and recorded with Frank Navin of Aluminum
Group. So...is this music jazz, progressive pop, slo-core, or experimental...?
Actually, Plain Songs is all of these and then some. Lowman and Navin
enlisted assistance from some heavyweights in the Chicago area who add real
meat to these compositions. Some of these tracks recall Brian Eno's
Another Day On Earth...but not really. If there is one word that
seems to best describe this music it would surely be...fluid. This
music flows by...at times sounding soothing and familiar...and at other
times sounding rather skewed and odd. These seven tracks are bound to leave
many confused. In the end, these players have succeeded in recording a strangely
compelling album that just doesn't sound like anything else we've heard
thus far this year. Heady cuts include "Tea Till Ten," "Please
Don't Think Its Funny," and "Rasperate." Perplexing yet calm
and soothing. (Rating: 5)
Matt
Lutz - Seesaw (CD, Undetected
Plagiarism, Pop)
Matt Lutz creates soft, slightly obtuse pop that sounds out of place
in today's musical climate. Instead of sounding like Ben Folds, Sufjan
Stevens, or The Beatles...Matt's music recalls eclectic artists
like Sparks, The Auteurs, The Kinks, and T. Rex.
Seesaw is an appropriate title for this strange, gently gliding collection
of tunes. The title track could easily have been penned by Ron Mael...a
soft rocker with a slightly spooky feel. In a perfect world, the song would
be certain of becoming an underground hit. The eleven tracks on this 36-minute
album feature sparse arrangements, subtle-yet-effective vocals, and wonderfully
cascading melodies. We're glad we had the time to spin this album several
times before reviewing it...because the soothing nuances of the music only
become apparent over time. Nifty cuts include "Took Me Awhile,"
"Follow Along" (sounds almost exactly like The Auteurs),
"Stay On," and "Falling." A very cool album indeed...
(Rating: 5+)
Mag Seven - The Future Is Ours, If You Can Count (CD, End Sounds, Rock)
Featuring members of the bands Black Flag, Descendents, All,
GWAR, Only Crime, Hagfish, and Armstrong...the
guys in Mag Seven obviously already have a built-in audience. But
what some folks might not be expecting is an all instrumental band.
What surprises us is how basic this music is. While many might expect an
all-out noise attack, The Future Is Ours, If You Can Count is, first
and foremost, a rock and roll record. The tunes are melodic and the
band rocks...but rather than try to blow folks away with power, this music
is driven by cool guitar riffs, nifty bass hooks, and danceable beats. As
such, we are pleased to report that Mag Seven is an upbeat FUN experience.
At times, these tunes recall some of the better Canadian instrumental guitar
bands from the 1990s. Eleven kickass tracks here including "Suck Bitch,"
"I Drive Like Steve McQueen," "Put Your Weight On It,"
and "Strange Wool." Excellent from start to finish. (Rating: 5)
Billy Martin & John Medeski - Mago (CD, Amulet,
Jazz)
We've been big fans of organ and drum recordings ever since Lee Michaels
recorded the album Barrel way back in the 1970s. As a result, we
were instantly drawn to the new album by Billy Martin and John
Medeski. Like the progressive dinosaur trio Emerson, Lake, and Palmer,
Billy and John are better known as two-thirds of the jazz band Medeski,
Martin, and Wood. They had so much success as a trio that most people
probably consider the three to be inseparable. Since the time the pair first
played together in 1989, Martin and Medeski had apparently always wanted
to record an album like Mago. The idea for this twelve track album
is simple. Just hit the record button and play like hell. These spontaneous
compositions spotlight the proficiency of these players. There are no vocals
and (apparently) no overdubs...nothing to get in the way of hearing the
duo playing exactly as they really sound. If you love organ and drums,
you will likely go nuts over the sound of this album. Colorful cuts include
"Crustaceatron," "Hot Little," "Safak," and
"Sycretism." Cool stuff. (Rating: 5)
Midnight
Movies - Lion the Girl (Advance CD-R,
New Line, Soft pop)
Echoes of Nico drift in and out of the music created by the folks
in Midnight Movies. Produced by Steve Fisk, Lion the Girl
features eleven moody progressive tracks featuring calm, flowing arrangements
and distant, provocative vocals. Some folks might mistakenly label the folks
in this band as shoegazers but that would be inappropriate as the vocal
melodies on this album are far more focused than that category would allow.
The tunes on Lion are not catchy, accessible pop tracks but rather
slow, evolving artsy recordings that will probably appeal to a very young
audience. We find this band's music to be soothing and just slightly offbeat.
Nifty cuts include "Souvenirs," "Ribbons," "Bell
Tower," and "Two Years." Interesting. (Rating: 4+++++)
Mommy and Daddy
Are laying in bed
Wishing and dreaming
They both were
Dead.(Rating: 1)
Amanda
Monaco 4 - Intention (CD, Innova Recordings, Jazz)
Amanda Monaco may very well be a musicaholic. In addition to playing
and recording, Amanda is also a professor of music, teaches jazz on the
web site WorkshopLive, and writes books. She may also very well be one of
the truly unique voices in twenty-first century jazz. Ms. Monaco looks nothing
like a jazz musician...her appearance would suggest that she is anything
but a musician. Her approach is subtle and seemingly distanced from
the pack in terms of her overall style of playing guitar. Joining Amanda
on this album are Jason Gillenwater (tenor saxophone, clarinet),
Fraser Hollins (acoustic bass), and Jeff Davis (drums). Together,
these four individuals create some rather subdued, spontaneous, and occasionally
intense compositions. Instead of putting herself dead center in the mix,
Amanda's guitars seem to weave in and out of the music like a ghost that
only makes itself visible on occasion. Moody and slightly creepy, Intention
is a peculiar album that becomes more perplexing with repeated spins...
(Rating: 5)
Monstrance - Monstrance (Double CD, Ape
House Ltd., Experimental)
Former members of XTC and Shriekback get together...and create
music that sounds completely unlike either band. Monstrance is Andy
Partridge, Barry Andrews, and Martyn Barker. But rather
than being an avenue for these fellows to expand upon their previous endeavors,
the project is an outlet for total and complete audio experiments. Some
may very well be turned off...while others may be turned on by this music.
In recording this double album, the three musicians recorded for three days
and came up with eight hours of spontaneous material. The music was then
sorted out and remixed by Stuart Rowe (guitarist for Future Sound
of London) and engineer Merv Carswell. The best way of describing
this material would be to call it modern jazz with a heavy emphasis on technology.
There's a lot to digest here...some of it is cerebral and inventive...while
other tracks are merely entertaining. At the very least, this is an interesting
project that may pave the way for some truly incredible music in the future...
(Rating: 4++++)
Palomar - All Things, Forests (CD, MISRA,
Pop)
The folks in Brooklyn, New York's Palomar have come up with a real
winner here. All Things, Forest is a pop album to be certain...but
it is by no means the kind of samey and predictable fluff that many artists
churn out. Palomar is three ladies and one fellow...all of whom are obviously
playing the game by their own rules. This album is simple yet uplifting...thought
provoking yet subtle...and amazingly focused. At times the band's music
recalls The Feelies, Azure Ray, and Ben Folds...but
only slightly. These guitar-based compositions feature wonderfully uplifting
melodies and mindblowing vocals. We were struck on several occasions by
the blatant honesty and integrity of the lyrics on this album. All Things,
Forest features beautiful pop music performed with integrity and style.
Classy cuts include "Bury Me Closer," "The Air Between"
(our favorite), "He Came To Stay," and "Alone." Highly
recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Grant-Lee
Phillips - Strangelet (CD, Rounder, Pop)
The fifth album from Grant-Lee Phillips, formerly with the band Grant-Lee
Buffalo. We don't mind admitting right off the bat that up to this point
in time we had only had very limited exposure to this man's music, despite
his substantial prior successes (he was voted best male vocalist of the
year in 1995 by Rolling Stone). These days you can't take in everything
from everyone...so we're usually content to discover artists at any stage
in their careers. Strangelet is a great album full of soft, pensive,
gently rolling soft pop tunes. The lyrics and vocal melodies are mature
and exceptional from start to finish. The album manages to have a nice,
lush, full sound without ever seeming busy or overproduced (the strings
add a particularly nice touch to some of the tracks). Phillips is an old
school songwriter. All of his tunes sound like instant classics and are
bound to get even better with the passage of time. We may be late catching
onto Grant-Lee's music...but after hearing Strangelet we are instantly
hooked. Nifty tunes include "Runaway," "Fountain of
Youth," "Raise the Spirit," and "Return To Love."
Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Pia
Fraus - Nature Heart Software (CD, Seksound, Pop)
The more we hear from the folks in Pia Fraus...the more impressed
we are. Nature Heart Software is the band's third album...and it
continues in the tradition of their prior releases. The music of Pia Fraus
is an unusual concoction. The band's tunes combine sounds from 1960s French
and British pop with elements from 1990s shoegazer bands. And while there
may be traces of artists like Ivy and The Cocteau Twins in
the music, the overall sound is original and unique. Nature Heart Software
is simultaneously soothing and puzzling. While the music is calm and subdued...some
of the arrangements are actually rather obtuse in very subtle ways. The
term dream pop is thrown about so much nowadays that it almost means nothing.
But that term most certainly describes this band's music. These soft, cascading
tunes are peculiar and hypnotic...and very, very beautiful. The vocals...are
simply out of this world (!). Intricate, delicate pop tracks include "Birds
Still Swing," "Day Week or Season," "Thank You Peter
Parker," and "Japanese Heart Software." Fantastic stuff,
highly recommended.... (Rating: 5++++)
John
Prine & Mac Wiseman - Standard Songs
for Average People (CD, Oh Boy,
Country/pop)
Old school country music created by John Prine and Mac Wiseman.
The seeds for this album were sown several years ago when Cowboy Jack
Clement suggested that Prine and Wiseman make music together. Prine
eventually contacted Wiseman...and Standard Songs for Average People
was born. The tunes on this album are a far cry from the modern glossy computerized
pop pulp that is often passed off as country music these days. These fellows
do an amazing job of recreating the sound and energy of country music from
the 1950s and 1960s. These tunes were recorded using only the bare essentials,
thus allowing the listener to focus on the truly sincere delivery of the
vocalists. The overall mood is extraordinarily restrained and laid back.
It will be interesting to see how folks react to this album. Will it be
embraced as a credible reminder of country music from days gone by? Or will
it be overlooked because it just doesn't sound like other albums currently
on the market...? No matter. Prine and Wiseman have come up with a real
winner here...the style and sound of the past...recorded with the crystal
clarity of twenty-first century technology. Features songs written by Ernest
Tubb, Al Dexter, Tom T. Hall, Leon Payne, Kris
Kristofferson, and many more. (Rating: 5)
Dinky sin is
Grey and smokey.
Dinky sin is
Okey dokey.
Dinky sin is
On the walls.
Dinky sin is
Pussycat balls.(Rating: 1)
Everyone has the right
To end their life
Whenever and however
They choose.(Rating: 1)
Rope, Inc. - Songs of Love & War (CD, Second-Shimmy,
Pop)
Rope, Inc. is Matt Menovcik (who was previously in the band
Saeta) and notorious producer Kramer. Songs of Love &
War is a collection of subtle dub-influenced electronic pop. These thoughtful,
personal, moody songs are delivered with appropriate restraint...incorporating
some very simple yet beautiful keyboards. Manovcik has a slightly raspy
almost hushed voice that works very well with this sort of music. Kramer's
acute attention to details gives the music the heart and soul it deserves.
This is probably a bit too subdued and provocative to become the most popular
download of the month...but positive word-of-mouth about this project is
bound to spread which will give it the exposure it so obviously deserves...
(Rating: 4+++++)
Kitty
Rose - Live at The Ryman (CD, Wild
Affair, Country/pop)
Kitty Rose's music recalls a brand of easy listening simple country
pop that has sadly become less and less prominent in the past few decades
because of the increasing presence of overproduced schmaltzy country artists
with too much money pumped into their careers...to hide the fact that they
have very little talent. This CD features Kitty's debut Nashville concert
at the Ryman Auditorium on April 1, 1972. All the energy and excitement
of the performance comes shining through in these newly remastered tracks.
More than any other performer, Rose's music recalls Patsy Cline.
Her genuine sincerity and love of music are obvious and apparent. She's
a soulful, focused singer as well as a helluva songwriter. These eleven
tracks flow by nice and easy. This is country music played the way it ought
to be played. Gutsy tracks include "(I Ain't No) Pretty Little Thing,"
"What Will It Take?", "Trouble," and "Unlucky."
Great stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Randi
Russo - Shout Like a Lady (CD, Olive Juice Music, Pop/rock)
Randi Russo is creating music in her own cool little niche...without
ever sounding very similar to the massive tidal wave of underground artists
that currently flood our planet. The first track ("Release Me")
had us thinking that Russo's music was going to be nothing more than a rehash
of Velvet Underground sounds...but the following title track immediately
made it obvious that Randi has much more depth that first meets the ear.
By the time the third track hit ("West Coast Girl") we determined
that picking out influences would be difficult. Be forewarned that the tunes
on Shout Like a Lady probably won't blow you away instantly. Russo's
music is simple for the most part and does not contain the usual predictable
elements found in most modern pop. As such, her music can be appreciated
best by subtle observation. Spin this disc a few times...and we are willing
to bet that you'll find something to love. Cool melodic tracks include
"Battle on the Periphery," "That Corpse," and "Cobwebs."
Exceptional vocals throughout...and the lyrics are particularly appealing...
(Rating: 5+)
The
Shake - Kick It (Independently released
CD, Pop)
Nice, direct, catchy pop/rock with plenty of hooks. While most bands are
content to ape the sounds of their current modern day heroes, the guys in
The Shake are heavily influenced by classic pop groups from the past
(their publicity photo even depicts them pawing over a bunch of vinyl albums).
This mini-album is short, clocking in just under 30 minutes. But quality
is always more important than quantity...and these guys manage to keep the
quality up during the course of these nine tracks. This music sounds sincere
and genuine...a far cry from a lot of the overproduced digital crap that
we get slammed with. Nifty tracks include "Frequency," "8
O'Clock," "Devil's Side," and "Manic Boogie." We
can hear traces of The Kinks in some of these tunes. Neat stuff,
fulfilling... (Rating: 4+++++)
When in doubt,
Throw up.
When confused,
Throw up.
When terrified,
Throw up.
When satisfied and content,
Throw up anyway.(Rating: 1)
Twink - Ice Cream Truckin' (CD, Mulatta, Pop/instrumental)
When we heard and reviewed the last Twink album (The Broken Record),
little did we realize that the disc would end up becoming one of our top
favorite releases of the twenty-first century (we obviously need to go back
and up the rating on that CD...it is truly brilliant). Twink is Mike
Langlie...a fellow with the imagination of a child and the skills of
a mature techno geek. Whereas The Broken Record involved splicing
snippets from old children's records into modern pop masterpieces, Ice
Cream Truckin' presents nineteen compositions that evolved through assistance
and cooperation from Langlie's pals and associates. Mike played and recorded
himself playing toy piano(s)...and then gave the tracks to other folks to
flesh out. The result...is a bizarre meshing of the simple with the heady
and complex. Combining sounds from a three year old's playroom with techno,
pop, heavy metal, ambience and more is no easy task...and yet Truckin'
spins so smoothly you'd swear you were licking away at the creamiest ice
cream cone on the planet. Each track is named after an ice cream flavor
("Razzmatazz," "Sugar Cone," "Scooter Pie,"
"Rocky Road," etc.). Considering how many artists were involved
in this project, you'd think that the quality of this CD would vary wildly.
Instead, the album is slick and professional from start to finish. Mike
Langlie is creating a style of music in which he has no competitors.
Slightly goofy and definitely surreal, the music of Twink is a bizarre acquired
taste that will always leave the listener wanting more... Fantastic stuff.
Highly recommended. (Rating: 6)
We have
So much money now
That we don't know what
To do with it.(Rating: 1)
White Rabbits - Fort Nightly (CD, Say Hey, Pop)
Listening to White Rabbits is like playing a guessing game. Just
exactly who do they really sound like? One minute they sound
like Squeeze...but a moment later they sound like The Strokes...the
next tune seems to be influenced by David Bowie...followed by another
that sounds something like an updated version of 10CC...! After spinning
Fort Nightly several times, we finally came to the conclusion that--while
the band's sound does seem influenced by a wild variety of artists--in the
end, White Rabbits really just sound like themselves. This interesting pop
album features smart, intricately arranged tunes with well-thought-out melodies
and exceptional vocals. The folks in this band create music that doesn't
fit in with current trends in modern twenty-first century pop. The average
listener might have trouble digesting this album because it doesn't sound
like everything else. In this little corner of the universe, however, that
is a very good thing. We recommend this album without reservation.
Smart, original tunes like "Kid On My Shoulders," "Dinner
Party," "March of the Camels," and "Tourist Trap"
make this CD a solid keeper. Excellent from start to finish. (Rating: 5++)
Young Gods - Super Ready / Fragmente (CD, Ipecac,
Progressive/industrial/rock)
We have been big fans of the Young Gods for years now. The band has
always been years ahead of their time and they never fail to entertain with
their unique brand of peculiar modern rock. Although this Swiss trio has
never been a commercial success, they have fared extremely well in terms
of artistic integrity...and they have been a major influence on many recording
artists. Super Ready / Fragmente is the band's debut for the Ipecac
label (which also releases albums by The Melvins)...and it's another
credible mind-bending addition to their catalog. The disc includes moody
progressive cuts and trippy, hallucinogenic rockers that feature the echo
drenched vocals that seem to be the band's trademark. While this album is
an obvious resounding success, our guess that it will (unfortunately) be
another commercial failure in the United States. But that may be a good
indication of real credibility...because things that sell well in this country
are total and absolute rubbish. Once again, the Young Gods have created
a fantastic masterpiece that will appeal to intelligent listeners
with an adventurous spirit... (Rating: 5+++)
All Smiles - Ten readings of a warning
Alternate Routes - Good and reckless and true
Appearance - Lost in aurora
Arrah and the Ferns - Evan is a vegan
At Dusk - You can know danger
Bad Apples - When colours become day and night
Barn Burning - Werner Ghost Truck
Charlie Beresford - The room is empty
Burning Dirty Band - Goodbye dominion
Christopher Blue - Room tones
Clemente - ...Whilst honey hums
Clutters- Don't believe a word
Shannon Corey - Unsaid
Neil Cotterill - Moonshot
Crawlspace - The spirit of '76
Hector Cuevas and the Boston Latin Band - Hector Cuevas and the Boston Latin
Band
Destructo Swambots - Clear light
Dreamphish - Happiness happiness compilation 1995-2005
Eastern Conference Champions - Eastern Conference Champions
Jeff Eaton - Stop the world
Electric Soft Parade - No need to be down-hearted
Everybody Else - Everybody Else
Fire Bug - End of the world
Foreverinmotion - The beautiful unknown
Germans - Germans
Ben Godwin - Skin and bone
Graduate - Anhedonia
Virginia Gray - Sweet music
Great Northern - Trading twilight for daylight
Jeff Gutman - No way back
Halfway - Remember the river
Kate Havnevik - Melankton
Benni Hemmhemm - Kajak
Horrors - Strange house
Jana Hunter - There's no home
Infected - Insomnia
In Theory - This is it
Hazey Janes - Fire in the sky
Joshua Jug Band - Joshua Jug Band
Mark Kerr - One drink away from the blues
Kill Toby Wyatt - North to south vs east to west
Lacona - President's say
Lacona - 35/half of 70
Louis - Freak show revenge
Love In October - Words of sound
Malassis - Birds like bricks
Mando Diao - Ode to ochrasy
Lynn Marie and the Boxhounds - Party dress
Daniel Lee Martin - On my way to you
Messiah's Kiss - Dragonheart
Miggs - Late nights and early mornings
Gabriel Miller-Phillips - Shoot the moon
Mob Rules - Ethnolution A.D.
Molia Falls - A support entry title EP
Mondo Diao - Long before rock'n'roll
John Morton - Solo traveler
Abel Mouton - Singled out
Mr. Jekel - Keep it pushin
Nazanin - Someday
New Rags - Take jennie to brooklyn
Ocean Floor - Tall tales and small tales
One Trick Pony - Phantom pains
Ono - Open your box
Ola Podrida - Ola Podrida
Pigs - Oink!
Point - Unlucky stars
Porter Block - Suburban sprawl
Tincup Prophette - Liar and the thief
Protest Hill - The city echoes our hearts
Rainravens - Garden rocket
Red Collar - The hands up EP
Retarded - Goes louder
Lou Rhodes - Beloved one
Screamin' Mee-Mees & Hot Scott Fischer - Warp sessiosn 1972/1973
Session Americana - Beer town: the table top collective vol. 3
Scott & Aimee - Sitting in a tree
She Craves - Come around
Skull Time - Skull Time
Stalking Horses - This is your signal
Stampead - Milk and honey
Still Flyin' - Za cloud ej
Still Flyin' - Time wrinkle ej
Dori Turner - Songs for dark days
Utah Carol - Rodeo queen
Various Artists - Madlib - Time out presents the other side of los angeles
Various Artists - Ellen Allien - Time out presents the other side of berlin
Various Artists - Sandinista Project
Vocoder - It should have been so easy
Voyces - Kissing like it's love
Warm Guns - Electric mobile movies
Wooden Stars - People are different
Yacht - I believe in you. your magic is real.
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