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March 2009
Reviews from 
RATING SYSTEM:
= UNBELIEVABLY INCREDIBLE
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
Arborea
- House of Sticks (CD, Borne!
/ Acuarela, Folk/pop)
The third full-length release from Arborea. This band is the duo
consisting of Shanti Curran and Buck Curran. The Currans recorded
House of Sticks in an old hunting cabin in western Maine. The ambience
of the environment obviously bled its way into the music...making it sound
slightly perplexing and haunting. This album features nice, smooth, organic,
progressive folk tunes that would not sound out of place in the 1970s, 1980s,
1990s, or even in the twenty-first century. These beautiful, intricate tracks
have a nice timeless quality that is engaging and real. The songs are sparse
and gentle...and delivered with genuine personal warmth. A word of warning:
You do have to be in the mood for this kind of music (i.e., if
you're flying down the road with the windows down this probably won't be
the right choice). Shanti has a really great voice that reminds us of
some of the more subdued British female vocalists from the 1970s progressive
era. This music extends far outside the boundaries of 2009 pop music and
that is, of course, most admirable. Eight reflective cuts here including
"River and Rapids," "Alligator," and "House of
Sticks." Soothing and thought provoking. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The
ARS Supernova - Lumina (Independently
released CD, Pop/rock)
Hard to believe The ARS Supernova is an underground band releasing
their own music. From the sounds we're hearing on Lumina these folks
would fit right in with a host of major artists on a host of major labels
(and that isn't meant as a cut, just an observation). Many of the
songs on this album bear a striking resemblance to some of Queen's
later material. The songs feature a super slick recorded sound, layers upon
layers of overdubs, complex arrangements, and a soaring vocalist who would
make Freddie Mercury proud. Because we're not really that into big
production arena pop, this album isn't up our own peculiar little alley.
But because these folks are so good at what they do, we wanted to
make readers aware of their music. If this is your kinda bag, there's a
good chance you will be playing this one into the ground. Great sounding
guitars throughout. (Rating: 4+++)
Beep
Beep - Enchanted Islands (CD, Saddle Creek, Progressive pop)
Talk about an acquired taste. If you're looking for something you
can understand, appreciate, and dump all within the scope of a day or two,
Enchanted Islands probably isn't the right album for you. Beep
Beep is the duo consisting of Eric Ray and Christopher Terry.
The folks at Saddle Creek came up with a one-liner that does a good job
of describing this one: "Enchanted Islands is a bewitched fantasia
for a mysticized and genetically mutated Galapagos Islands." To
try and describe the overall sound... Ray and Terry write and record modern
electronic-based pop that sometimes sounds strikingly subdued and normal
while at other times it sounds slightly off-kilter and peculiar (the Captain
Beefheart-inspired jagged atonal guitar riffs certainly add an odd twist
to some of these compositions). After spinning this l'il sucker about a
dozen times...we found that the more familiar the songs became the more
we liked 'em. Solid mentally-challenging cuts include "I See You!",
"Mermaid Struggle," "Goodbye Sunshine," and "Only
See Me." Recommended if you like different flavors. (Rating: 5++)
Bell
X1 - Blue Lights on the Runway (CD,
Yep Roc, Pop)
Bell X1 is the Irish band consisting of Brian Crosby, Dave
Geraghty, Paul Noonan, and Dominic Phillips. This CD arrived
in our trusty post office box without any accompanying literature. Because
the band is apparently revamping their web site (and the old one doesn't
seem to be functioning correctly), quickly coming up with biographical information
wasn't so easy. So we'll just stick to the subject at hand which is the
band's latest album Blue Lights on the Runway. These fellows write
and record what might best be described as accessible commercial smooth
pop with a big slick sound. The tunes on this album are rather moody and
restrained. The vocals are always up front in the mix and the songs have
a nice fat thick sound. Most of the songs are effective and real, although
there is at least one real clunker that would've been better left off ('The
Great Defector"). Overall, we would recommend this band to fans of
U2 who would prefer a more soft and subtle sound... (Rating: 4+++)
Beware
of Safety - dogs (CD, The
Mylene Sheath, Progressive)
We have always admired artists and bands who create instrumental music.
The endeavor is usually a labor of love because the average music fan seems
to demand vocals in the music they listen to. The folks in Beware of
Safety have crafted an absolutely beautiful album entitled dogs.
The band consists of Adam Kay, Jeff Zemina, Morgan Hendry,
and Steve Molter. These four guys use a wide variety of instruments
to create their intricate, atmospheric instrumentals. The tunes give the
listener the feeling of traveling over land or water as layers of sound
slowly build upon one another to create particular moods. Summing up the
sound of dogs is rather difficult given the fact that the songs do
not easily fit within any one specific genre. Very satisfying sounds here...and
the disc is housed in a beautiful cardboard sleeve complete with mini art
booklet. Subtle, hypnotic...and quite mesmerizing. (Rating: 5)
The
Bird And The Bee - Ray Guns Are Not Just
The Future (CD, Blue Note,
Pop)
GUILTY PLEASURE ALERT. We have been hearing a lot about The Bird And
The Bee lately so we specifically requested a review copy of Ray
Guns Are Not Just The Future. Fans of slick, highly produced modern
pop with absolutely killer female vocals will definitely want to get their
hands on this CD. The Bird And The Bee is the Los Angeles, California-based
duo consisting of George Kurstin and Greg Kurstin. George
and Greg's music has a decidedly European sound and feel. The songs are
super smooth and melodic...instantly catchy...and feature some absolutely
fantastic warm and engaging arrangements. Sure, it's an artificial sugar-coated
world where everything is ultra dreamy and way too cool. But when the music
sounds this good...who cares? George's vocals sound absolutely spectacular.
For purely delightful spring listening pleasure, you can't do much better
than Ray Guns. With the current state of world affairs (i.e., everything
is doom and gloom depression)...this album is just what the doctor ordered.
Cool free-floating pop tracks include "Fanfare," "Ray Gun,"
"Polite Dance Song," and "Lifespan of a Fly." This should
be particularly appealing to fans of Ivy. Recommended. (Rating:
5++)
Bombs
Into You - Metaphorically Yours [Vol 1]
(Limited edition independently produced CD-R EP, Electro pop)
Portland, Oregon's Bombs Into You present their latest EP as an absolutely
free-of-charge download on their web site (see link above). And for snobby,
difficult folks who don't review downloads (now who could that be?),
they are courteous enough to provide numbered, limited edition EPs with
snappy individualized handmade sleeves. These fellows play smart, moody,
modern pop music with a heavy emphasis on danceable beats and odd heady
electronics that bleed in and out of the mix. Only five tunes here...but
they're all rather gripping and interesting. Our favorites are "Sink"
and "Nearly." Cool sounding stuff. (Rating: 4+++++)
Nathan Brumley - Show Me A Sign (CD, Embassy
Music, Pop)
Cane Ridge, Tennessee's Nathan Brumley is an impressively talented
young fellow whose music sounds very much like a cross between Ben Folds,
Pearlfishers, and even Andy Pratt at times. Show Me A Sign
features ten tracks of pure piano-driven pop...all slickly produced and
arranged to perfection. Judging by the materials that accompanied this disc,
it appears that Brumley is a man who is driven to succeed. He writes and
records music designed to appeal to a wide range of listeners...particularly
those who like smooth, instantly hummable upbeat pop. And although Nathan
himself comfortably categorizes his music as Christian pop, the music does
not have obvious religious overtones (i.e., you don't have to be religious
to enjoy and appreciate it). Classy cuts include "Show Me A Sign,"
"Something Real" (our favorite), "Love Outside the Lines,"
and "Things You've Never Done." Nice optimistic stuff. (Rating:
5)
Caravan
of Thieves - Bouquet (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Sometimes the liner notes say it all. According to the front insert, Caravan
of Thieves is "Fuzz and Carrie [Sangiovanni]
playing acoustic guitars and singing harmony together, Ben Dean serenading
them on his violin and occasionally singing something baritone and Brian
Anderson laying down the foundation with his double bass while every
so often lending his voice." That pretty much sums up what's going
on here. The wonderful toe-tapping tunes on this album are so infectious
that you initially don't even notice the absence of drums and percussion
instruments. The folks in this band are so good at what they do that it
seems remarkable that they are (at least at this point in time) an underground
entity. These songs are not weird underground artsy crap. The tracks on
Bouquet are remarkably accessible and could easily be appreciated
by millions upon millions of listeners. The vocals are bright and superb
from start to finish. No canned artificial technology driven music here...this
stuff is real. The excellent cover photo of a young boy holding flowers
is a perfect match for the music contained on the CD. Music from an era
gone by played with true style. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Caustic
Casanova - Imminent Eminence (Independently
released CD, Rock/pop)
So many twenty-first century artists bury their songs underneath multiple
layers of technological sound. Nowadays when you hear a real artist playing
music without all the excessive gloss it tends to sound rather...strange.
Caustic Casanova is the Washington, D.C.-based trio consisting of
Francis Beringer, Michael Wollitz, and Stefanie Zaenker.
On the humorously-titled Imminent Eminence these folks present fourteen
stripped down pop/rock songs in which lyrics are an integral part of the
equation. The band has a real and obvious sense of humor...and their words
are strikingly poignant. Musically, the tracks on this album remind us of
many of the underground guitar bands from the 1990s who were playing for
a very esoteric audience. In some ways, this band's overall sound and ideology
reminds us of Redd Kross...but only slightly. Intriguing tracks include
"Are We Doing This?", "I Hate Everyone I Want To Like,"
"Glossolalia," and "Mythical July." These folks display
great potential. Their energy is real and undiluted. (Rating: 4++++)
People close their eyes and
People close their ears.
They're freaked out by
Truth because it
Preys upon
Their fears.(Rating: 1)
Creepy
- Strong Lies Kill Highs (CD EP, Teeno,
Pop/rock)
Simple, direct, punchy, upbeat guitar pop/rock. Creepy is the trio
consisting of Danny Cole (guitar, vocals), Adam Grant (drums),
and John Riccomi (bass). The Strong Lies Kill Highs EP features
six cuts...chock full of danceable rhythms and nice fuzzy guitar riffs.
Instead of playing artsy underground noise, these guys play straightforward
pop tunes that can easily be understood and appreciated. Hard to tell a
lot about a band from only six tunes...but we're initially impressed. Our
favorite cuts are "Approach Is Order," "Strange Days,"
and "Side Unseen." (Rating: 4+++)
Crime
In Choir - Gift Givers (CD, Kill Shaman, Instrumental)
If you're in the mood for the kind of complex, free-flowing spontaneous
progressive music that was popular in the 1970s but aren't in the mood to
hear melotrons and dated lyrics about druids and warlocks...you might
just be in the right frame of mind for San Francisco's Crime In Choir.
These guys are on a mission to provide modern progressive music with an
updated sound. And on Gift Givers, they have succeeded in their quest.
Crime In Choir consists of players who previously played with or were in
the bands At The Drive-In, The F*cking Champs, Jonas Reinhardt,
and The Mass. Gift Givers, the band's fourth full-length release,
presents seven lengthy complex compositions that showcase the players' fluid
spontaneity. These tracks are spilling over the brim with cool keyboard
sounds and neat intricate guitar lines. This band has a nice cerebral sound
and yet their music never sounds too thick or overproduced. Nice cool mentally-challenging
cuts include "Gift Givers," "Crystal Cake," "Fingers
Lightly Bowed," and "Fool's Guild." Nice. (Rating: 5+)
Desario - Zero Point Zero (CD, Darla,
Pop)
Clean upbeat modern guitar pop that is somewhat reminiscent of Darla labelmates
New Radiant Storm King while at other times the vocal melodies seem
to recall the music of Scott McCaughey (The Minus 5, The
Young Fresh Fellows). Desario (named after a character on the
television show Freaks & Geeks) was created by members who were
previously in the bands Holiday Flyer, California Oranges,
and Rocketship. Zero Point Zero, the band's debut album, has
a nice clean sound without coming across sounding overproduced. The band's
snappy, smart songs feature clean chiming guitars, smooth vocals, and cool
simple rhythms. Pure pop tracks include "Nautical Ways," "Fine
Time," "Drama Club," and "Sequoia Gee." A cool
and entertaining spin. (Rating: 4+++++)
Dipsomaniacs - Social Crutch (CD, FDR,
Pop/rock)
While we weren't paying attention...the guys in Dipsomaniacs have
obviously transformed themselves into a heavy duty in-your-face hard pop
band of the highest caliber. We've liked what we heard from this band in
the past, but it didn't prepare us for the powerful punch of the tunes on
Social Crutch. This is one totally killer power pop album...and the
sound quality is f*cking incredible. Nice thick throbbing tunes...with
melodies that are so instantly catchy that you'll get that same heady feeling
you get when listening to The Young Fresh Fellows and Fountains
of Wayne. After hearing this, we can honestly say that guitarist/vocalist/songwriter
Mick Chorba ranks right up there with some of the coolest pop songwriters
of the past few decades. His songs are vibrant and full of life...and they
possess a wonderful uplifting quality that is gripping and inspiring. We
are in love with this album...can you tell...? To tell you the truth,
after hearing this one you probably will be as well. Superb tunes
include "Together We Can Rule The World" (a perfect pure pop
anthem), "Blame It On The Gin," "Kids On Base,"
and "Halo Around You." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Slop food
On a dish
And eat off the goddamn
Thing.(Rating: 1)
Emma-Lee - Never Just A Dream (CD, Special Guest, Soft pop)
Most folks exposed to the music of Toronto, Canada's Emma-Lee will
likely have the same initial reaction we did. It is truly difficult to believe
that this enchanting young lady is (at least at this point in time) an unknown...?!?
When you hear her voice, you'll see what we mean. The last time we recall
hearing a new female vocalist who sounded this smooth and sultry was when
we were first turned onto K.D. Lang many years ago. Never Just
A Dream is a super slick, super polished collection of soft melodic
tracks that recall the 1950s and 1960s when female vocalists were all the
rage. But Emma-Lee's voice is just the beginning. She is also an incredible...totally
incredible...songwriter of the highest callibre. All ten tracks on this
album sound like classics from the past that you have never heard before.
If you haven't heard of her yet, you can bet your socks that you will
be hearing a lot about Emma-Lee in the coming months. This girl is a
total knock out. Killer tunes include "Bruise Easy," "Never
Just A Dream," "Mr. Buttonlip," and "Until We Meet Again."
Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Matt
Finley - Brazilian Wish (CD, Kingsmill
Music, Jazz)
Really nice, smooth jazz with a Brazilian flavor. Despite the fact that
this album features a large group of musicians (thirteen to be exact), the
compositions on Brazilian Wish never sound overly complicated or
overproduced. Matt Finley is a real pro. The guy has been a professional
musician now for over 45 years (!)...playing flugelhorn, trumpet, flute,
and soprano saxophone. He composed all nine tracks on this album. Having
been a player for so many years, Matt has obviously made a great many solid
connections over the years...and several of them accompany him on this album
(including but not limited to Romero Lubambo, Warren Bernardt,
Mark Egan, Jeff Siegel, and Dan Levine). This album
was recorded way back in May of 2005 but is only now being made available
to the public. Cool, groove-oriented cuts include "Father's Day,"
"There You Are," "So Close," and "Soft Speaking."
Cool classy stuff delivered with style. (Rating: 5)
The
Flying Change - Pain Is A Reliable Signal
(CD, Scarlet Shame,
Soft moody pop)
The Flying Change is driven by the songwriting skills of Sam Jacobs
who was inspired to write these songs as the result of serious health issues
that were facing his family. Thus, not surprisingly, Pain Is A Reliable
Signal is a rather serious album with an overall somber tone. The songs
are, for the most part, rather sparse and subtle...with the central focus
being Jacobs' deep resonant voice. Some of these tracks recall Canada's
Hayden at times...while others come across sounding something like
a modern Americana/folk version of Leonard Cohen. The melodies are
smart and memorable, the lyrics honest and real...and the arrangements a
perfect tailored fit. Folks wanting upbeat pop may find this a bit too sleepy
for their taste. But folks wanting genuine real music will probably find
a lot of satisfying material here. Our favorite cuts include "Broken
Bow," "If You See Something," "St. Marys," and
"The Northern Bay." (Rating: 5+)
Fractal - Sequitur (Independently released CD, Progressive)
Hmmm...is this math rock...or a revival of the sound of progressive
rock bands from the 1970s...? Actually and in fact, the guys in Fractal
have a sound that combines ideas from both camps. Sequitur is the
second full-length release from this San Jose, California-based quartet.
There's a lot to digest here as the band presents no less than 16 complex
intricate compositions. And in the true tradition of 1970s progressive bands,
they aren't afraid to present tracks that are lengthy and involved ("Aftermath"
clocks in at nine minutes and fourteen seconds). The band consists
of Josh Friedman, Jim Mallonee, Nic Roozeboom, and
Paul Strong. It was obviously a labor of love for these guys creating
these complex tracks. The songs have a nice flowing quality and feature
some impressive instrumental passages. Our favorite cuts include "Aftermath,"
"Mantra: Eternal Spring of Life," "Mauves," and "Bellerophon."
(Rating: 4+++++)
Gladhander - One Against Three (CD, Demille
Productions, Pop)
The guys in Eugene, Oregon-based Gladhander play a modern brand of
hard pop reminiscent of many of the hard grunge bands from the 1990s. The
band's tunes feature hard driving rhythms, loud thick guitars, and appropriately
masculine vocals. Formed in 2005, the band consists of Mitchell Chamberlain
(guitar, vocals), Kasey Waite (drums), and Dustin La Roche
(bass). The band has apparently become a favorite in their home town and
its no wonder. The tunes on One Against Three are catchy and cool
and the playing is super tight. The vocals kick ass. It's amazing
there aren't more post-grunge bands around considering the vast influence
the genre had on music for so many years. This album features twelve classy
tracks including "Fit For a King," "Tooly," "Do
You Have It?", and "Make You Hate Me." (Rating: 4+++++)
Robert Gomez - Pine Sticks and Phosphorus (CD, Nova
Posta, Progressive pop)
The third full-length release from Corpus Christi, Texas-based singer/songwriter
Robert Gomez. With so many CDs it takes two, three, or more spins
before we can decide whether or not we want to cover them. With Pine
Sticks and Phosphorus the decision was obvious mid-way through the first
track. Gomez writes and records nice, lush, slightly orchestrated pop music
that is restrained yet effective. And man, what a voice. This guy
has a really cool smooth voice that fits his music perfectly. No canned
or predictable pop sound here. Robert crafts his music using sounds that
have a definite organic feel. His arrangements are precise and often complex
without having that overwhelming quality that ruins so many modern multilayered
albums. These tracks will no doubt immediately appeal to that specific segment
of the listening population who prefer music with a slightly different flavor.
Cool slightly moody cuts include "On This Day," "Hunting
Song," 'October 3rd Post," and 'Open Your Eyes/Escape From Burning
Trees." Very smooth and vibrant. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Greater
California - All The Colors (CD, Subtitled
Audio, Pop)
Nice, smooth, mellow, melodic pop from Long Beach, California's Greater
California. This, the band's third full-length release, is brimming
over the edges with nice smart pop tunes that would make Brian Wilson
proud. The band consists of Terry Prine, Nick Benich, Chris
Berens, Kari Prine, and Greg Brown...all of whom sing
and play various instruments. If the vast majority of hyperactive modern
pop artists leave you feeling nervous and anxious you may very well be drawn
into the strangely calming songs on this album. While the music does have
a retrospective flavor, the sounds and ideas have been updated to meet the
more discretionary requirements of twenty-first century listeners. Clean,
precise vocals...nice layered keyboards...and clean guitar riffs...who could
ask for anything more? Ten cool cuts here including "All The
Colors," "The Foolish Son," "Almost Sunshine,"
and "The Soft Lights." (Rating: 5+)
Halloween,
Alaska - Champagne Downtown (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Halloween, Alaska is the quartet consisting of James Diers
(vocals, keys, guitar), Matthew Friesen (bass, samples), Jacob
Hanson (guitar, keys, vocals), and David King (drums). Prior
to forming this band, members were previously involved in 12Rods,
Love-cars, and Happy Apple. Our first reaction to the tunes
on Champagne Downtown was that they sounded something like more poppy
versions of songs Peter Gabriel could have written early in his solo
career. As a result, we weren't too surprised a few moments later to read
that this album was produced by Tchad Blake (who just happens to
have also produced music by Gabriel). Downtown has a nice, full,
lush sound without ever sounding overproduced. The band displays an impressive
amount of restraint on this album, allowing the songs themselves to be the
central focal point. Smart move...because there are plenty of nice, heavenly
melodies here. And the vocals are absolutely superb from start to finish.
This is one of those albums with a big studio sound (which may turn some
listeners off). But in our opinion, in this case all the slick effects and
overdubs add to the music (rather than detract). Smart, articulate pop tracks
include "Hot Pink," "The Hollywood Sign," "Un-American,"
and "Knights of Columbus." (Rating: 5+)
Heartour - Ate (Independently released CD, Pop)
Heartour is the solo project created by Jason Young who is
best known as the drummer in the Los Angeles, California-based band The
Ruse. Whereas The Ruse seems to be a straightforward commercial endeavor,
Young's project seems to be more of a creative outlet. Ate is the
third Heartour album...and it's full of bright, simple, upbeat pop compositions
with nice flowing qualities. The songs on this album were performed, programmed,
and recorded entirely by Jason (who also wrote all the tunes). Rather than
having a canned one-dimensional sound, however, these tracks sound nice
and full. But what really makes these songs appealing is Young's voice.
He has a nice, understated vocal style that comes across sounding genuine
and sincere. Eleven cool tracks here. Top picks: "Her," "I
Don't Even Know You," "Who Will Break the Spell?", and "Showgirl
& The Clown." (Rating: 5)
His
Mischief - The Perfect Lover (CD, Modern Radio, Rock/pop)
His Mischief is the Minnesota-based trio consisting of Jeff Quinn
(bass, vocals), Sheridan Fox (guitar, vocals), and Jeff Brown
(drums). The tunes on The Perfect Lover have a great deal of personality...and
they don't have that generic overprocessed sound that ruins so much modern
rock music. These guys record music that is normal enough to be entertaining
while having enough odd qualities to make it interesting. What probably
stands out most about the tunes on this album are the vocals. Instead of
over-rehearsed perfect vocals and layers upon layers of precise harmonies...these
guys keep their vocals clean and simple. Using only one vocal or two (occasionally
more), they manage to get their point across while retaining a nice live
sound. Nice simple modern progressive rock tunes include "Freaks Up
Front," "Limp Handshake," "Roman Holiday," and
"The What." A nifty upbeat fun experience with a good raw feel.
(Rating: 5)
Kenneth Ishak - Silver Lightning From A Black Sky (CD, Division,
Pop)
This one doesn't meet our review requirement of having been released over
the past 12 months (it was released in 2007)...but we wanted to give it
a mention because it really sounds nice. Norway's Kenneth Ishak has
already had a good deal of success in his native country and is now poised
to transfer that success to the United States. Silver Lightning From
A Black Sky features super slick, glossy pop tracks that are extremely
hummable and accessible. It'll be interesting to see what this guy's next
full-length sounds like... (Not Rated)
Let your balls hang out,
And flap in the breeze.
Balls need space too
In varying degrees.
(Rating: 1)
Romi
Mayes - Achin In Yer Bones (CD, Manitoba
Film & Sound, Pop)
Upon first spinning this CD our reaction was that this young lady's music
sounded an awful lot like thousands upon thousands of other female artists
roaming around the universe. But as we became increasingly familiar with
her songs, our opinion eventually changed...as we realized that the thing
that sets Romi Mayes apart from the masses is the fact that her music
seems genuinely inspired. The songs on Achin In Yer Bones
are reserved, soft pop with slight hints of country music and blues. But
the central focus of the music is obviously that super smooth and inviting
voice. Romi writes all her own music (two of the tracks were co-written
with others)...and she's a damn good songwriter. More than any other artist,
Mayes' music reminds us of Bonnie Raitt...although she is by no means
a copycat artist. Nice reflective cuts include "Achin In Yer Bones,"
"Tire Marks," "Givin Is Gone," and "Hard Road."
Nice sounding laidback stuff. (Rating: 5)
The Memories Attack - The Memories Attack 2 (CD, Noyes,
Pop/rock)
The Memories Attack is the Canadian duo consisting of Chris Thompson
and Ron Bates. Thompson was previously in the bands Eric's Trip
and Moon Socket. Bates was previously in the bands Orange Glass
and Falling Bodies. The two have now joined together and are creating
progressive pop with a decidedly underground slant. The Memories Attack
2 is a very intriguing collection of twelve tunes. Some of the songs
are somewhat experimental, others are almost straightforward pop...while
still others combine the two (and more). The majority of the songs on this
album are presented rather simply without using monumental layers of sounds
and effects. The nifty flowing melodies remind us of many of the more interesting
underground bands from the 1990s that never seemed to surface. This is one
of those CDs you will need to play over and over again before it sinks in...and
that is, of course, a very good thing. These guys have a cool knack
for writing and recording songs with peculiar qualities that draw the listener
back for more. Our favorite cuts include "Go!!," "Collapse,"
"Connected," "Summertime II," "Sink/Swim,"
and "Exploding House II." Some great thick guitar riffs on this
one... (Rating: 5+)
The
Moore Brothers - Aptos (CD, American
Dust, Pop)
We have been mighty impressed with The Moore Brothers in the past.
And we're pleased to report that Aptos is yet another exceptional
addition to the duo's growing catalog. Greg Moore and Thom Moore
write super smooth incredibly melodic folky pop with a sound that is (at
times) remarkably reminiscent of the best 1970s recordings by Crosby,
Stills, Nash, & Young (the precise vocal harmonies are particularly
similar sounding). The cover art by William Stout is great...the
front cover depicts a skeleton in the desert exposing his cape to reveal
that he does, in fact, still have a heart. The Moore Brothers are apparently
already rather popular in their home state of California. At this point,
they seem perfectly poised to transfer that success to the rest of the country
and beyond. This wonderfully reflective album features fourteen songs...all
of which hit the target dead center. Standout cuts include "Daughter
Feather," "Iraq," 'You, Me and Razor Dan," and "Bed,
Bath and Beyond." Smart and ultimately satisfying. Highly recommended.
(Rating: 5+++)
Morrissey - Years of Refusal (CD, Lost Highway, Pop)
While there are plenty of people who love Morrissey as well as plenty
of people who hate Morrissey...we tend to be fence sitters. While
we've always found his music (as well as the music of The Smiths)
to be pleasant and entertaining...we have just never been that wild about
Morrissey's voice. We always loved Johnny Marr's guitar sounds and
have admired Morrissey's lyrics from the beginning...but his voice always
left us feeling kind of cold. So now in 2009 Morrissey presents an album
with a cover photo meant to prompt discussion (the cover photo shows
him holding a baby, thus causing folks to ponder the title of the album).
The music...is a rather direct type of straightforward pop/rock that sometimes
recalls the original sound of The Smiths. After spinning it several times,
we actually ended up liking Years of Refusal a lot more than we imagined
we would. The album features twelve smart upbeat pop tunes...and the backing
band is very skilled and impressive. Sure, there are lots of other things
we'd rather be spinning... But in the end, Refusal manages to deliver
the kind of smart melodic pop that Morrissey fans know and love. (Rating:
4++++)
Motorik
- Klang! (Independently released CD, Rock/pop)
The first thing that caught our attention about Motorik is that the
folks in this band have a nice, clean, simple sound. With so many bands
layering their music to the point of insanity, the nice open sounds of the
tunes on Klang! come as a welcome surprise. Vocalist Sio has
an interesting higher register voice that sounds something like a cross
between Robert Smith and Russell Mael...and her simple throbbing
bass lines are absolutely intoxicating. Joining Sio are Adrian Garver
on guitar and Hoagie Gero on drums. You have to admire any three
piece band whose songs are so good that they don't need all the extra sounds
and studio gimmicks. Klang! is chock full of refreshing, instantly
danceable tracks delivered with fresh energy and originality. Our favorite
cuts include "Or So I Thought," "It's Just Sugar," "First
Rule," and "Six Filters." Neat resilient rockers. (Rating:
5+)
MW Ensemble - Apartment or Nepal (Limited edition CD-R EP, 75 Or Less, Progressive)
Before we get into the subject of music here, we must comment on the record
label. The 75 Or Less label releases CDs that are truly limited editions...and
(apparently) always in limited editions of 75 copies or less. Talk about
a purely artistic approach to releasing music (!). MW Ensemble
is the Kentucky-based trio consisting of Nancy Wheeler, Jeremy
Edison, and Mike Winters. These three individuals play a brand
of soft, subdued, progressive music with some pop leanings. These recordings
are simple and sparse...allowing the listener to concentrate on the songs
themselves rather than a bunch of technological tricks. Smooth, pensive,
intriguing cuts include the first track (unnamed), "Apartment,"
and "Nepal." Peculiar stuff that comes off sounding extremely
smooth... (Rating: 4+++++)
Naommon - Love Is Struggling (CD, Allnighter, Techno/disco)
The first (title) track on this album had us wondering if Grace Jones
was making a guest appearance (?!). Naommon seems to be playing for
a very distinct crowd, namely gays and club kids. He already achieved a
great deal of success with his debut album (Allnighter) that was
released in 2008. The tracks on Love Is Struggling are obviously
heavily influenced by music from the 1970s...but Naommon's music is by no
means a total retrospective experience. This guy uses ideas and sounds from
the past but injects them with plenty of modern state-of-the-art electronics...creating
a very modern version of what was popular a few decades ago. Unlike many
modern techno artists whose music is driven purely by computer technology,
this guy seems to place a great emphasis on vocal melodies and lyrics. The
songs are, for the most part, simple and direct...and very easy to digest.
Neat toe tappers include "Allnighter," "Romance Knack,"
"This Quirk Is Love," and "Make It Right." Nice cool
groovy stuff that makes for effective dance music. (Rating: 4+++)
OGOGO - Redux (CD, III,
Spontaneous improvisation)
Is this modern jazz or modern classical...? OGOGO is the duo consisting
of Igor Grigoriev on treated guitars and Rodney Oakes on MIDI
trombone. Together the two have created an album that is definitely an acquired
taste. We had to laugh reading over the band's press release as they describe
their music this way: "...their divergent trombone/guitar sound
and compositions are distinctly OGOGO-like..." That's great...comparing
the sound of your band to your own band (heh heh heh...).
Musically...Redux is a strange spin. The compositions feature Igor
presenting all kinds of unorthodox sounds with his electric guitar...while
Oakes proves there's a lot more that can be done with a trombone than most
people realize. This disc is a heady, strange spin and will certainly only
appeal to folks wanting something out of the ordinary. Thirteen curious
cuts here that will leave most folks scratching their heads... (Rating:
4+++++)
Paper
Arrows - Things We Would Rather Lose
(CD, Quell, Pop)
Nice smooth accessible pop. Things We Would Rather Lose is the second
full-length release from Chicago, Illinois-based band Paper Arrows.
At a point in time when so many bands are aping specific styles of music
and relying on technology more than songwriting abilities, this album comes
across sounding nice and refreshing. Paper Arrows tunes fit within the category
of pop music...but the band's songs are by no means generic predictable
fodder. These fellows craft their songs with a cool preciseness...and they
come across sounding genuine and real. The vocals are particularly appealing.
Instead of over rehearsed perfection, the vocals are loose enough that they
give the listener the feeling the words are coming from the heart. So maybe
that's the best way to sum this one up...pop music that comes from the heart.
Yeah, that's it. That may sound kinda pompous or hokey, but when
you hear the music you'll know why. This is a short album that lasts just
over 30 minutes. But as we all know, in the world of music quality is almost
always more important than quantity. Strong proficient tunes include "More"
(such a great opening track), "One More Quiet Song," and "Almost
Gone." Cool resonant stuff. (Rating: 5)
The
Poles - Twelve Winds (CD, Double Plus Good, Pop/rock)
Super cool dark hard pop. Twelve Winds is the first full-length album
from Asheville, North Carolina-based band The Poles. We were heartily
impressed with this band's debut EP (As Above, So Below). The band
has a sound that is something like a cross between Thin White Rope,
The Doors, and Bob Mould...but fueled by the intensity of
a decidedly modern twenty-first century hard rock band. The group consists
of Matt Gentling (bass), Jon McDuffie (drums), Todd Lemiesz
(guitar, vocals), and Bruce Rogers (guitar). The weakest link in
most bands is the vocalist. But in the case of The Poles this is definitely
not the case. Todd Lemiesz is easily one of the most focused and
incredible singers that this decade has produced thus far. The man's thick,
raspy voice is exacting, intense, and immediately identifiable. There are
so many hard rock bands on the planet whose music lacks substance and has
no heart. That is perhaps what sets The Poles apart from their contemporaries.
Even though the music is moody, loud, and aggressive...underneath it all
are songs with real substance and true emotion. Many of the tunes here are
moody and somewhat reserved...but when the band lets loose and turns up
the volume...look out. There is no doubt that lots of folks will
be blown away by Twelve Winds. This band has produced a debut album
that is bound to be on many "best of" lists by year's end. Hard
effective cuts include "Van Exodus," "Trampoline Days,"
"Twelve Winds," "We Dine in White," and "Wick."
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
The pregnant woman
Is a selfish
Woman.(Rating: 1)
Propagandhi - Supporting Caste (CD, Smallman,
Rock)
It seems as if 99% of the music we hear from Canada is high caliber progressive
pop...but this band is from a decidedly different universe. The guys in
Propagandhi play hard rock. Really hard loud masculine rock
with plenty of big hairy ballpower. Most bands playing hard rock music make
the mistake of letting things blur into a boring wall of screaming and noise.
This is definitely not the case with these guys. Supporting Caste
is a surprisingly smart loud rock album...and the songs are extremely well
thought out and developed. The overall sound is something like hearing a
modern progressive take on the sound of Bad Religion...except much,
much better and with way more punch. The vocalist has a cool powerful
voice that does sometimes involve some screaming. But he sings more than
screams...which is an important variable that sets the band apart from their
contemporaries. Great cover art on this one...a complex painting showing
naked American Indians, pilgrims, animals, and even a centaur fighting one
another (??!). Cool in-your-face rockers include "Night Letters,"
"Dear Coach's Corner," "Without Love," and "Last
Will and Testament." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The
Shortwave Set - Replica Sun Machine
(CD, Wall of Sound, Progressive)
This band is already somewhat of an underground phenomenon. The Debt,
the band's debut full-length, was very well received. So much so, in fact,
that the band quickly made some mindbending connections. Produced by Danger
Mouse, Replica Sun Machine (the follow up) features the talents
of Van Dyke Parks (string arrangements) and John Cale (viola).
To us, these tunes sound something like 1960s inspired hippie pop funneled
and channeled through the intricacies of modern computer technology. Much
of the band's music sounds upbeat and inspiring...but there's plenty of
audio exploration going on as well. It's kinda like experimental pop with
more of an emphasis on pop than experimentation (although sometimes its
the other way around). The group's cool harmonies are one of the most obvious
selling points. The vocals are constantly dreamy and out-of-this-world.
Surprisingly, this album is not an easy spin. There's a lot going
on in these tunes. So much so that you'll want to spin this album over and
over to fully appreciate all the subtleties. Eleven cool cuts here including
"Harmonica," "Replica," "House of Lies," "No
Social," and "The Downer Song." (Rating: 5+)
Sleeper
- Behind Every Mask (CD, Mush,
Progressive/electronic)
The dreaded words "hip-hop" mentioned in the press release that
accompanied this disc had us frightened. But upon spinning Behind Every
Mask we found that the only hip-hoppy thing about this album are some
of the rhythms. The man who calls himself Sleeper writes and records
thick, dense, trippy electronic recordings that are probably far too grainy
and gritty for the average listener. Whereas most electronic artists go
for clean and pure sounds, Sleeper seems to grovel in a world where dirty
distortion is an important part of the equation. Most folks would probably
describe this music as being difficult to listen to. Hard metallic sounds
are layered on top of one another to create intense walls of bizarre sound.
Weird tracks include "Abdomen," "Condition or Effect,"
"Nothing New," and "Kartoon." Strange stuff even by
our polarizing standards... (Rating: 4++++)
The
Soul of John Black - Black John (CD,
Eclecto Groove, Pop/soul)
Although the press release that accompanied this CD did mention the most
dreaded words in the world of music ("hip hop"...barf...)...from
what we hear on Black John there is very little that sounds like
the dreaded disease that plagues so many twenty-first century albums. The
Soul of John Black is not a band name but rather another name for musician
John "JB" Bigham. John writes and records snazzy soul/pop
with cool, groovy beats. Over the years, Bigham has played with and/or has
been associated with some biggies including Miles Davis, Fishbone,
Nikka Costa, and Bruce Hornsby. The soulful tunes on Black
John are decidedly slick and commercial. At the heart of the tunes are
John's cool, resonant vocals. This guy really sings like he means it.
In some ways, many of these tunes sound something like a more soulful, laidback
version of some of Prince's music from the 1980s (and that is
meant as a compliment, of course...). Cool, captivating tracks include
"Black John," "Betty Jean," "White Dress,"
"Better Babe," and "Thinking About You." (Rating: 5)
Ysanna
Spevack & Philip Clemo - Soundzero (Independently released CD, Progressive)
Soundzero is the second full-length collaboration between composer/violinist
Ysanna Spevack and composer/filmmaker Philip Clemo. This is
one of those cases where the music is rather difficult to lump into one
clean easy category. Is it world music? Is it experimental? Is it mood music?
Is it progressive pop? Or is it modern classical....? Actually, the tracks
on this album teeter in and out of all these categories and more. One thing
is certain. Spevack and Clemo aren't making music for the masses. This album
features complex heady recordings that are not easily digested and/or understood.
And yet...there is something about this music that is strangely calming
and hypnotic. This album goes all over the place...yet all the while retaining
a solid feeling of continuity. Intriguing cuts include "Merkaba,"
"What the Voice Leaves Behind," "Thinking of the Infinite
Sun," and "The Long Red Road." Ultimately dreamy and complex.
Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Your wall done got splattered.
Your clothes done got splattered.
Your pet done got splattered.
Your head done got splattered.(Rating: 1)
Street Fighter: The Legend
of Chun-Li - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by Stephen Endelman (CD, Lakeshore, Soundtrack)
Composer Stephen Endelman has been composing film soundtracks ever
since he moved to New York way back in 1992. Since that time his music has
appeared in a wide range of well-known films including (but not limited
to) A Bronx Tale, Flirting With Disaster, and The Englishman
Who Went Up a Hill, But Came Down a Mountain...changing and adapting
his style to fit the type of film he is working on. Street Fighter: The
Legend of Chun-Li is a story that involves warriors on the streets of
Bangkok battling the fight of "terror versus beauty, light versus
darkness, and good versus evil." The music on this CD has a grand
epic sound that ranges from moody and odd to gripping and intense. There's
no telling how many hours upon hours it took writing and recording these
27 (!?) tracks. The attention to detail is mesmerizing. This soundtrack
will not only appeal to fans of the film but also to serious Classical music
buffs as well... (Rating: 4++++)
Suburban Kids With Biblical
Names - #4 (CD EP, Labrador,
Pop)
Okay...so the band name is obviously a huge plus here. This humorously-titled
duo writes and records upbeat hummable pop that is in many ways like a British
version of babysue favorite Miniature Tigers. Suburban
Kids With Biblical Names is Peter Gunnarson and Johan Hedberg.
These two fellows write upbeat playful pop tunes that have staying power.
The songs feature intricate arrangements and smart lyrics. Only four songs
here...but they're all satisfying and warm. Excellent vocals. Our favorites
are "1999" and "Europa." (Rating: 5)
Superdrag - Industry Giants (CD, Superdrag Sound Labratories/Thirty
Tigers/RED, Pop/rock)
Several years ago we were turned onto the music of Knoxville, Tennessee's
Superdrag. We immediately fell in the love with the band's music.
But then for the next several years we never heard anything from them. It
wasn't because they weren't recording and releasing music...it just so happened
that either the labels or publicists handling the band's music weren't sending
us their CDs (naughty, naughty...tsk tsk...!). But even though we
obviously missed out on several years of the band's output, we are pleased
as party punch to report that Industry Giants is a great big SMACK
IN THE FACE. This album features pulsing super-catchy power pop played with
brilliant balls. The band consists of Don Coffey, Jr., John Davis,
Brandon Fisher, and Tom Pappas. You'd think that having been
around for so many years these guys would show signs of burning out. But
instead the exact opposite is true. On this album, these guys play
with all the peppy excitement of a band that has just learned to play. Powerful
cuts include "Slow To Anger," "I Only Want A Place I Can
Stay," "Ready To Go," and "Deathblow To Your Pride."
Damn, those guitars sound just great. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Trentalange - Awakening, Level One (Independently released CD, Progressive
pop)
This album grew on us slowly over the course of a half-dozen spins. Awakening,
Level One is the second full-length release from Barbara Trentalange
(who releases music using only her last name). This album features thick
well-produced modern pop songs with subtle, moody, dark undercurrents. The
songs are, for the most part, restrained pop music. But the sounds and arrangements
push the music to a different level. There's a lot going on here...much
more so than you realize on the first spin. Barbara writes cool songs...and
then obviously spends a great deal of time arranging them to perfection.
She's got a really cool voice...and her backing vocals are superb. We really
like the synth/keyboard sounds that tend to really beef up the sound. The
louder you turn this one up...the better it sounds. Cool mental pop cuts
include "Fever," "Ultimate Machine" (an outstanding
track), "Racing With Nowhere To Go," and "Fire Lights the
Sky." (Rating: 5+)
Underworld: Rise of the Lycans - Original Score by Paul Haslinger (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack)
Orchestral soundtrack for the film Underworld: Rise of the Titans
scored by former Tangerine Dream band member Paul Haslinger.
This is the third in the Underworld film series. As would be expected,
this soundtrack disc features thick, moody orchestral music with definite
threads of tension intertwined into the music. These tracks feature a nice,
warm, big sound. These recordings were obviously created using absolute
state-of-the-art software and equipment. If you turn the volume up, you
can hear some really incredible subtle sounds...some of the effects and
percussion sounds are rather remarkable. Haslinger did a great job creating
music that will no doubt blow the minds of film buffs in surround sound.
Eleven classy cuts including "Lucian and Sonia's Love Theme,"
"Court Battle Suite," and "Storming the Castle." Intense
stuff. (Rating: 5)
Valina
- A Tempo! A Tempo! (CD, Joyful
Noise Recordings, Rock/pop)
The third full-length release from Austria's Valina. This band writes
and records complex progressive modern rock (almost math-rock at times)...while
their lead vocalist sounds very much like a cross between John Lydon
and Paul Weller (?!?). A Tempo! A Tempo! was released
in Europe in 2008 and is now being distributed throughout the United States
thanks to the folks at Joyful Noise. The songs on this album are never predictable.
Valina tunes feature strange jagged guitars, odd time signatures, and plenty
of frantic stops and starts...a far cry from the average twenty-first century
band who simply flails mindlessly into oblivion. Eleven perplexing tracks
here including "Calendaria," "Dogged," "Mehrklang,"
and "Libidos Regime." Odd, out-of-the-ordinary music. (Rating:
4+++)
Victorian Halls - Victorian Halls (Independently released CD EP, Rock)
Considering the fact that there is a very strong buzz out there in the world
about Victorian Halls we were very surprised that this release was
an EP rather than a full-length. After all, how many bands with so much
anticipation surrounding their music release two EPs in a row? It's almost
like they're toying with their audience (which is, of course,
a very good thing to do...). After hearing this, we're going to stick
with our previous description. The guys in Victorian Halls play harsh obtuse
modern pop that sounds very much like a cross between The Pocket Fishrmen
and Jane's Addiction. This self-titled EP presents four more nervous,
herky-jerky, oddball hard pop/rock tunes with the central focus being those
bizarre helium-induced lead vocals. Unlike most hard rock bands who turn
way up and just flail, these guys write surprisingly complex and intricate
tunes that sound as if they must be difficult to play (almost math-rockish
at times). These guys are bound to be big favorites among teenagers and
college kids over the next few years. All four of these tunes kick ass but
our top favorites are "Desperate Storyline" and "It's Not
Fad, It's Etiquette." Sure wish the band would include lyric sheets
(!). Fantastic heady stuff, rather intense. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
We
Are Hex - Gloom Bloom (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop)
The debut full-length release from Indianapolis, Indiana's We Are Hex.
The appropriately titled Gloom Bloom is an odd and perplexing collection
of thirteen compositions that the band recorded in their home studio (Hex
Haus). The tracks on this album are inextricably connected with technology.
So much so that some of the cuts teeter into the "sound as music"
genre where technology and effects are just as important (if not more so)
than actual melodies. The band is made up of four members: Brandon Beaver,
Jilly Weiss, Matt Hagan, and Trevor Wathen. These folks
incorporate a wild variety of sounds and styles into their music. The aural
barrage is probably too complex and unpredictable for the casual listener.
As such, we can't help but think this band's music will appeal mainly to
very young listeners and those wanting stuff on the cutting edge. The press
release that accompanied this disc appropriately compared the music to Joy
Division, The Cure, Gang of Four, PJ Harvey, and
The Jesus and Mary Chain. If you're looking for simple, easy, predictable
pop, you won't find it here. If you can handle the strangely disjointed
sounds, you will probably end up being rewarded by these strange, provocative
tunes. Top picks: "INDPLS," "Noise Knot," "No Enemies,"
"Loose Hearts." (Rating: 5)
Western
CIV - Shower the People You Love With Gold
(Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
Sheesh...talk about an acquired taste. We liked this album right off the
bat...but continued to spin it for about a week before writing this. Western
CIV is a great band with great songs. The band's tunes could best be
described as pop...but it is by no means the kind of predictable stuff you
may be accustomed to hearing. The tunes on the curiously-titled Shower
the People You Love With Gold swagger and sway all over the road as
they make their way to your mental destination. The vocals are particularly
appealing...the vocalist sings in a very restrained, matter-of-fact way
that really resonates. Some of the tunes remind us of alternative 1980s
college radio pop...others sound like lost hits from the 1970s that were
never heard...while still others just sound like good, solid, twenty-first
century progressive pop. These tunes were recorded with just enough polish
to make them sound appealing...while still retaining a really cool organic
sound. Super smart cuts include "Inkblot Candor," "I Am A
Waterfall!," "Rally" (a particularly cool track), and "Paper
Hornet Parade." This band's sound sometimes reminds us of Gentleman
Auction House. Totally entertaining stuff. Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Zach
Williams and the Reformation - Electric
Revival (Independently released CD, Rock/pop)
When we were pompous, ugly, confused little retards in high school, we would
have hated this band. At that point in time Southern roots rock represented
everything that we hated in our closed-minded little prepubescent world.
But times change and people do as well. And these days we're neither ashamed
nor afraid to admit that we can get a keen little high off the ballsy southern
fried rock provided by Zach Williams and the Reformation (although
we still stick to our firm belief that the Allman Brothers were always
a crap band). Recorded in Memphis, Tennessee, Electric Revival has
a nice, thick, big sound...and these recordings really capture Williams'
super deep, resonant, slightly raspy voice. After hearing this album, anyone
who ever loved the sound of Lynyrd Skynyrd will probably think they
have died and gone to heaven. Loud, bluesy rockers include "Set You
Free," "Empty Dreams," and "Take Me Home." Good
solid rock music for the masses. (Rating: 4+++++)
You think that you are unique.
You feel that you are important.
The quicker you face the truth
The quicker you will feel better.
You don't really matter.(Rating: 1)
Zank - Without A Bridge (CD, Groove House, Pop)
The guy who simply goes by the name Zank wrote most of the songs
on Without A Bridge while backpacking around the globe. After returning
to his home in California he recorded this, the resulting album. Bridge
is a surprisingly slick and professional album, particularly when you consider
the fact that it was recorded at home. Zank really knows how to write effective
melodies and he's got a really smooth voice that seems tailor-made for commercial
pop. Eleven flowing understated pop tracks here including "Sorry,"
"Like Flowers For the Sun," and "You Always." Housed
in a very nice, appealing tri-fold digipak sleeve. Nice sincere sounding
stuff. Well done. (Rating: 4+++)
A
A2 B2 - Prissy McNothing
Adrev - Failure
Apple Failure - You get an F
Aspic Tines - Crypto-superzeit! international
B
Tone Bent - Say what you will
Bo Benton - I know u want it
Blackbelt Band - A new community
Meredith Blus - Let it rain
Body or Brain - Second star to the right
Knox Bronson - The seasons
C
Jessica Campbell - Put the stars back
Casiotone For the Painfully Alone - Advance base battery life
Yuanlin Chen - Away from xuan
Philip Clemo - The rooms
Coyote Poets of the Universe - Callin' you home
D
Death In The Park - Death In The Park
Myles Deck and the Fuzz - Police cops
Rick Derringer - Live at the ritz, new york-1982
The Devil Makes Three - Do wrong right
Doctors & Dealers - Lost friends and new found habits
Dump For Charity - Shitting for a cause
E
Dustin Edge - A forest through the trees
Evil Is Good For The Environment - Satan is dating mother nature
F
Courtney Fairchild - In chances
Farkus - Thought you should know
Chico Fellini - Chico Fellini
Forever - Forever
Mitch Friedman - Game show teeth
G
Matt Gary - The days you live for
Tiffany Gassett & Rising Tribe - Back to the water
Guns For Children - Let the little ones shoot it out
H
Handsome Family - Honey moon
Human Animal - The united states of auschwitz project
I
I Ain't I - Me is me
Illity Pritt - Snow not
J
J.A.C.K. - Deletist
Jaden South - Leading the horse
Josh and the Empty Pockets - Under the bed
Julie The Band - An act of communication
Jupiter Rising - The quiet hype
K
Kill The Living - Live with the living blobs
King Earl Boogie Band - Loaded & live
L
Lucy Langlas - Flag
The Library - The Library EP
Marcio Local - Says don day don dree don don
Lunky Do - Splah the drih minter
M
Beth McDonald - Home
Beth McDonald - At last: love songs & lullabies
Michelle Malone - Debris
Kate Mann - Things look different when the sun goes down
March Into Paris - Sheild the dilemma
Jana Mashonee - New moon born
Metzcal - Nevermind the reason pathetic smoke & leders
Mighty Fairly - Big words and power chords
Mott - By tonight-live 1975/76
N
Night Control/Death Control - Night Control/Death Control
Nubs for Business - Night night, dodo
O
Hal Onserud - Hal 2008
Overman - The evolution EP
P
Mike Pardew - Azul
Parlotones - A world next door to yours
Alice Peacock - Love remains
Kelly Jo Phelps - Western bell
Phoenix Rising - Ascension
Pravada - Manus plere
Q
Q Stands For Liver Spots - Down the river with snot pills
Quack Is Not For Ducks - Paddle your wally doll 'til it grows things
R
Resin - Truth be told
Margo Reymundo - ...My heart's desire
Robbers - Flesh
Romeo Spoke - For the cause
Ruse - Midnight in the city
S
Scotty Don't - Songs from the back porch
Joshua Singleton - Joshua Singleton
Slate Pacific - Safe passage
Sleepy Sun - Embrace
Soft Targets - Heavy rainbow
Andrew Solomon - Something more
Son of the Velvet Rat - 11 / animal
Sonogram - Gamelan son of lion
Spanish Armada - Spanish Armada
Bethany Smith Staelens - The big band theory
Stoley PT - Winter-summer-winter-summer
Strezo - Haunted house vol. 1
Sweet Water - Clear the tarmac
T
Gina Thompson - Missing you
True Nature - Feels like centuries
U
The Uninvited - Original motion picture score
V
Various Artists - Heavy rotation records: dorm sessions 6
Various Artists - The 8088 Record Collective: Compilation Vol. III
Various Artists - No lip service music compilation
Various Artists - Rockabye baby! More lullaby renditions of the Beatles
Various Artists - Luaka Bop: Twenty first century twenty first year
The Veer Union - Against the grain
W
Allison Weiss - And the way she likes it
White Lies - White Lies
X
Mister X - How's the daisy flowing?
Y
Yeeper Snue - Trousers that sniff the bottom feeders
Z
Flint Zeigler - New harmony sessions