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Contact * Donate
* Jokes * LMNOP
aka dONW7 * Poetry
* Store * T-Shirts * Review
Policies
August 2012 Comics, Poems, Jokes, and Reviews
from
aka 
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Q: What makes kitchens and bathrooms different from other rooms in a house?
A: They both have running water.
Q: What do you get when you turn on a light?
A: Light.
Q: What do transvestites and television have in common?
A: They both attract attention...but in a negative way.
Q: Who cares about things?
A: No one.
Q: Why chicken?
A: Because of the sides.
Q: Where do the prettiest fairies hide?
A: Underneath the glittery lining of the highest cloud.
Q: What's a joke?
A: A joke.
Q: Is it difficult to lose weight?
A: Not unless you want it to be.
Q: What are grades and scores?
A: Letters and numbers that don't mean anything.
Q: What is the best thing to be when you grow up?
A: Something forgettable.
Q: What do you get when you mix things together?
A: Mixed up stuff.
Q: What will you become eventually?
A: Oozing liquid and dirt.
Q: Who deserves respect?
A: No one.
Q: What have computers become?
A: Monkeys on our backs.
Q: What are the justices on the Supreme Court?
A: Pathetic morons.
Q: How much pork would a pork chop chop if a pork chop could chop pork?
A: Approximately two ounces.
Q: May I have another cookie?
A: No, you may not. It's almost time for dinner and it would spoil your appetite.
Q: How do you make your vagina stop dripping?
A: Stuff it full of paper and sponges.
Q: What moves?
A: Lots of things.
Q: What doesn't move?
A: Everything.
Q: What do you get?
A: Whatever you want.
Q: What is the opposite of opposite?
A: Little Timmy Boatmilk.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Rosie
Abbott - Rosie Abbott (Independently
released CD-R, Pop)
The debut album from Nottingham's Rosie Abbott. The simple unassuming
package we received gave no indication of the quality of the music on this
album. Abbott sent out very reserved promotional packages...apparently leaving
it up to listeners to decide for themselves how they feel about her music.
It only took a few seconds for this wonderfully talented lady to win us
over. Rosie writes upbeat mid-tempo classic songs with pleasant melodies
and cool breezy arrangementss...and she has a FANTASTIC voice (!!!). We
can't help but think this ultra-creative musician will quickly be picked
up by some company or label that realizes the potential inherent in her
music. We totally dig warm fuzzy cuts like "If Everything Was Up To
Me," "Hard To Sleep," "Unfathomable (First Light),"
"If You're Happy And You Don't Know It," and "A Year To Remember."
Groovy stuff that occasionally veers into unexpected territories. Totally...NIFTY
STUFF.
The
Abe Lincoln Story - What Time Is It? It's
Story Time With The Abe Lincoln Story (Independently released CD-R,
Pop)
The third full-length release from California's The Abe Lincoln Story.
This band began way back in 1994 as the solo project created by vocalist/songwriter
Steve Moramarco. The band is apparently a vehicle for Steve and his
friends to have some fun whenever the mood strikes...which may explain the
long delay between audio releases. From the sounds we're hearing on What
Time Is It? It's Story Time With The Abe Lincoln Story it sounds like
these folks really enjoy what they do. This is one big band. Joining
Moramarco on this album are Kristian R. Hoffman, The Millionaire, Pat
Hoed, Charlie Woodburn, Paul Litteral, Damon Zick, Rial Gallagher, Deena
Rubinson, and Karen Zumsteg (whew!). These soul-infused danceable
pop/rockers are peppered with plenty of cool rhythms, zesty horns, and a
determined sense of humor. Twelve cuts here including "Marco Polo!",
"The Scum Always Rises," "The Problem of Time," and
"Given Circumstances." Provocative thought provoking stuff...
Normal is
Abnormal.
Adrian
Benavides - Same Time Next Life (CD,
Unsung, Pop)
Dark industrial progressive rock with unusual twists and curves. This is
the debut full-length release from Adrian Benavides which was written
and produced in conjunction with Markus Reuter. The compositions
on Same Time Next Life immediately reminded us of the strange warped
industrial rock bands that were treading around the United States in the
mid to late 1990s. Adrian's songs have a strange slightly atonal sound...and
they features some rather unorthodox arrangements. We rarely hear artists
delving into this genre lately...not sure why...? In any case, these deep
driving thunderous tracks are seriously intense. And the louder you turn
'em up the better they sound. We also dig those way groovy detached
vocals. Six odd cuts here including "Impulse Response," "Exterior
of a Heart," and "Same Time Next Life." Intense stuff that
packs a punch.
Bend
Sinister - Small Fame (CD, FU:M (File Under Music), Progressive
pop/rock)
If you dig the groovy sounds of staccato keyboard-driven 1970s pop...there's
a good chance you'll go ape over Vancouver's Bend Sinister. We were
impressed with these guys' last EP (On My Mind) that was released
earlier this year. But Small Fame seems to be the album where the
band has really found their sound. The smart and inventive songs on this
disc sound something like a cross between the poppy side of Queen
mixed with the more soulful side of The Guess Who. The trademark
here are keyboardist Dan Moxon's effervescent vocals. The man can
really sing circles around the common everyday twenty-first century vocalist.
Small Fame packs quite a punch...and will probably be the album that
puts these guys on the map. They've got a sound and style that is likely
to catch on with millions of listeners. The more we spin this the more we
dig it. Twelve clever inspired cuts including "She Don't Give It Up,"
"Don't You Know," "My Lady," "Give It A Rest,"
and "Quest For Love." Top pick.
Bona
Head - The Path (Independently released
Italian import CD, Progressive pop)
Impeccably produced smooth modern pop with orchestral arrangements. Italy's
Bona Head isn't creating artsy difficult music for the underground
crowd. The Path offers smooth melodic smart modern pop tracks that
could easily be appreciated by millions of listeners. The band is the one
man project created by Roberto Bonazzoli...a young fellow with a
wonderfully resonant sexy voice that should drive girls W-I-L-D. We reviewed
the last Bona Head album Colours Doors Planet back in May 2011 and
we were impressed by what we heard at that time. Roberto has apparently
been fine tuning his sound since then and his music seems to have even greater
depth and focus. The Path features fifteen well-crafted tracks that
should please even the most discriminating listeners. Cool reflective cuts
include "The Path," "Dead Zone," "Relax,"
and "The Perfection (Epilogue)."
Shimmering wafers
Of predictive breath
Willow and wander
Toward ultimate
Death.
Brian
Boggess Group - Debut EP (Vinyl EP &
Digital download, Midnight
Snack, Pop)
Brian Boggess Group start off with a bang here with the release of
their oddly titled Debut EP. This smart disc features four hard-hitting
pop tracks played with guts and conviction. None of that limp-wristed stuff
here, these guys play like they mean it. These songs were recorded
on analog equipment by engineer Geoff Sanoff at Stratosphere sound,
so you know the sound quality is superb. Boggess and his associates
play classic pop tunes that are amped up and inspired. We find it particularly
interesting that the second song ("Jack Knife") sounds very much
like the 1970s British progressive band Greenslade (particularly
the vocals). These guys are doing everything right here. After hearing
this, we can't wait to hear the follow-up...
Brave
- Original Soundtrack: Original Score Composed by Patrick Doyle
(CD, Disney, Film soundtrack/score)
This soundtrack consists mainly of instrumental compositions but also features
five tracks with vocals. Patrick Doyle is a classically trained Scottish
composer who is best known for the music he has composed for several Kenneth
Branagh films. We've not yet seen the Disney / Pixar film Brave
so we can't comment on the story and animation. Doyle has created some wonderfully
magical music here. The soundtrack is flavored with a definite Scottish
influence...and peppered with some very intricate and classy arrangements.
Some of the tracks are pensive and subtle while others are rather busy and
exciting. The sound quality is superb throughout...so you can bet your booties
this one's gonna have a super huge sound when you see the film. Twenty
perfectly executed cuts here including "Touch The Sky," "Remember
To Smile," "In Her Heart," and "Merida's Home."
Put butter on a bird
And place it on your tongue.
Inhale the bird and butter
Into your left lung.
The
Cynics - Spinning Wheel Motel (CD, Get Hip, Rock/pop)
We begin this one being a bit biased...because we're longtime fans of The
Cynics and we also generally dig stuff on the Get Hip label. What we
love most about the guys in The Cynics is that they play music as if time
is standing still. They don't change their sound and style to suit the changing
tastes of the general public. They don't adapt to the latest technology
and they don't use the latest samples. And they never ever sell out
or churn out lame shit. Spinning Wheel Motel is another great addition
to the band's catalog. The album features the cool melodic catchy guitar-driven
pop/rock songs that the band's fans have come to expect. By keeping things
simple and giving the listeners what they want, these guys have developed
die-hard fans who will follow them indefinitely. There are absolutely no
signs of burn out or regression here. This album is a fresh kick in the
boo-boo. Some of the lyrics will definitely cause easily-offended folks
to squirm (haw haw--you go guys!). We just love "I Need More,"
"All Good Women," "Rock Club," "Circles Arcs and
Swirls," and "Zombie Walk." We could never get enough of
the Cynics. They remain G-R-E-A-T. Top pick.
Ryan
Darton - I Am A Moth (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Ryan Darton has apparently had a life-long love affair with music.
He grew up in rural Utah but now resides in Los Angeles, California. Prior
to embarking on his solo career Darton was in the band Kid Theodore.
Now a multi-instrumentalist, Ryan seems obviously poised to reap the rewards
of his many years playing music. I Am A Moth may very well be the
album that propels this guy's career to the next level. The songs are direct
and instantaneously familiar...and they have that nice warm spark driven
by a man who has truly found his sound, voice, and style. Some of these
songs are powerful loud pop tracks while others are more somber and subdued.
But whatever he does Ryan always comes across sounding inspired and convincing.
He writes genuinely memorable melodies and he's got a voice that gives his
songs an extra kick. A dozen well crafted tracks here. Our favorites
include "Summer & Snow," "Camel's Back," "Shadows,"
and "Falling In Love." Top pick.
Don
Dilego - Western & Atlantic (CD
EP, Velvet Elk, Pop)
This is the fourth release from Don Dilego whose past three full-length
albums have created quite a buzz. The Western & Atlantic EP is
being released in advance of his next album Magnificent Ram A. This
disc features seven smooth pensive tracks played with appropriate restraint
and obvious style. Dilego's smooth mid-tempo pop should appeal to a wide
cross-section of listeners. His songs have obvious commercial appeal...but
they are a far cry from the crap pop that always seems to top the charts
nowadays. After hearing this...we'll be waiting eagerly to hear the next
album. Cool catchy tracks include "Midnight Train," "Chicago,"
a cover of The Replacements' "Here Comes A Regular," and
"Carry On." Good solid stuff.
Dirty
Panties - I Am A Robot (CD, SquidHat, Pop/rock)
As regular readers are always aware, we're just as interested in the motivation
behind music as the music itself. As such, the girls in Dirty Panties
immediately caught our attention for the plain and simple fact that they're
obviously so immersed in what they do. I Am A Robot is a charged
up album chock full of razor sharp power pop tunes that remind us of many
of the cool alternative underground rock bands treading around the country
in the mid-1990s. These fabulous ladies keep thing simple and direct, focusing
on getting the point across rather than trying to bury their tunes in tidal
waves of overdubs. Pure feelgood tracks include "Cheers," "Figment
Of A Girl," and "I Am A Robot." Totally upbeat and fun.
Down
By Law - Champions At Heart (CD, DC Jam, Rock/hard pop)
One of the leading pop/power rock bands from the 1990s returns with
one HELLUVA kickass collection of hard rockin' tracks. Down By Law
was originally formed by All's Dave Smalley in 1989. The band
enjoyed a great deal of success but in the early twenty-first century they
decided to throw in the towel. We're not usually too excited about reunions...but
in this case we're totally won over and blown away. From the sound of the
tunes on Champions At Heart you'd never know these guys had put their
careers on hold. These songs have that great super fast loud pummeling sound
that the fans loved...and are fortunately now loving all over again. We
loved the excitement and energy of the 1990s so this one immediately knocked
our brains out. Hard, fast, furious, and nervous...these sixteen tracks
are a pure dose of infectious rebellion. Kickass cuts include "Bullets,"
"Knock This Town," "Crystals," and "Champions At
Heart." This stuff totally rocks... TOP PICK.
Eco, eco,
Eco groan.
Leave the world
Alone.
Elk - Daydreams (CD, Indoor
Shoes, Pop/rock)
While we're always hearing hundreds of new pop, rock, and Americana bands
from up north, rarely do we hear Canadian garage rockers. Not sure why,
but for some reason most garage rock bands still tend to be located in the
United States. The guys in Elk may be on a mission to change all
of that, as Daydreams contains simple straight-from-the-hip guitar
driven rock tunes without all the fussy frills that get in the way of the
music. If we hadn't looked at the CD cover and press release, we would have
guessed this was put out by Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania's Get Hip label. But
that's not the case, this album was released by the folks at Indoor Shoes.
Daydreams features twelve tracks with cool driving rhythms, guitars
drenched in reverb, and vocals that have a decidedly retrospective sound.
Nice genuine tunes here...and every single one of 'em has something tangible
to offer. Our favorites include "Before The Sun," "If Not
For You," "Memories," and "You Know." Cool sounding
stuff with heart.
Eric
Erdman - My Brother's Keeper (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The debut solo album from Mobile, Alabama's Eric Erdman. Up to this
point in time Erdman has been best known as a member of the band The
Ugli Stick (great band name) who have been playing together since 1999.
This year Erdman decided to present another side of his personality with
the release of My Brother's Keeper. This guy has a smooth cool voice
and he writes songs that could be appreciated by just about anyone. The
songs are relatively simple and straightforward and feature lyrics that
seem genuine and inspired. If you dig singer/songwriter stuff, there's a
good chance you will dig Eric's music. Twelve solid tracks here including
"Feel," "Bird On A Powerline," "Saltwater,"
and "Peanut Butter and Jealousy."
There are no
Real breasts.
They are all
Artificial.
Every breast is a
Fake breast.
M.
Fallan - Contagious (CD, Kicking, Pop)
Nice progressive moody pop with a difference. Although we're not exactly
sure why, we rarely receive music submission from French artists...and that's
a shame because when we do hear them we're usually impressed. France's M.
Fallan's music is not what you might expect it would be. This intriguing
fellow doesn't write cute snappy dance tunes and he sings in English. His
influences include Shanon Wright, Eliott Smith, Pedro The Lion, Chokebore,
and Cat Power...so this should give you a general idea of where he's
coming from. This is not a commercial-oriented album (i.e., there are
no potential hits or possible singles). Fallan is obviously creating
music as a pure form of self expression. He writes songs that don't follow
traditional paths and formulas and he's got an interesting voice that covers
a wide range of emotions. Ten impressive cuts here including "Withered
Skin," "The Road To Ruin," and "Oblivion." Neat
stuff from the fertile French underground...
Federal
Lights - Carbon (Independently released
CD EP, Pop)
Truly great pop songs from Canada's Federal Lights...the band created
by Winnipeg's Jean-Guy Roy. We were immediately drawn to these songs
because they remind us a great deal of babysue favorite Johnny
Society. Roy's voice sounds a great deal like Kenny Siegal...and
some of his songs sound remarkably similar. Only six tunes here...but they're
all smart and focused and they all hit the bull's eye dead on. Our favorites
include "Wake Up," "Camera," and "Carbon."
We'll be eagerly awaiting the opportunity to hear what this guy does on
his next full-length release...
Jonathon
Grasse - Phantomwise (CD, Acoustic Levitation, Modern
classical/improvisation)
Peculiar modern improvational music from guitarist/composer Jonathon
Grasse. On Phantomwise, Grasse is joined by cutting edge experimental
musicians Gustavo Aguilar, Cristian Amigo, Emily Hay,
and Tom Steck. Anyone who is even slightly familiar with any of these
artists has an idea of what to expect here which is...the unexpected.
Jonathon and his associates play music that is spontaneous, experimental,
and most likely unscripted for the most part. The compositions on Phantomwise
are abstract, peculiar, and almost completely absent of any sort of commercial
appeal. Many would find these songs to be difficult to absorb and appreciate...but
that would be missing the point entirely. These folks aren't interested
in coming up with catchy melodies...nor were they trying to create soothing
background music. During these recordings these musicians were obviously
feeding off one anothers' creative energies...which may perhaps explain
the odd nature of the sounds here. Call it modern jazz...modern classical...or
experimental...this album is simply strange and abstruse. Eleven
perplexing compositions including "Beat Red," "Thank God
It's Dydd Gwener," "Phantomwise," and "Clandestine Rotations."
Graveyard
Train - Hollow (CD, Spooky, Pop)
The third full-length release from Australia's Graveyard Train. These
guys have already become quite popular in their home country...and our guess
is that Hollow will be the album that transfers some of that fame
to the rest of the world. These seven guys play foot stompin' modern pop
that incorporates elements of western music and horror films into the mix.
These songs feature steady rhythms, reverb drenched guitars with a slight
rockabilly sound, offbeat lyrics, and cool slightly loose sounding vocals.
We had to spin this one a few times before we 'got' what was going on here.
But we found that the more familiar we became with these songs that more
depth they had. The first single from the album is "I'm Gone"
and it has already received a good bit of attention in Australia. After
hearing this, we'd say it's a safe bet that these guys put on quite a show.
Eleven strangely effective tracks here including "Get The Gold,"
"I'm Gone," "One Foot On The Grave," and "The End
Of The World."
Peter Green Splinter Group - Blues Don't Change (CD, Eagle
Rock Entertainment, Blues/rock)
Just about everyone is familiar with the band Fleetwood Mac.
Even those with only a casual interest in music would have found it hard
to miss heaing the band's popular singles as they have been played to death
over the past few decades. But even though the band is widely known, relatively
few folks are probably familiar with the group's early recordings. When
Fleetwood Mac began it was a very, very, very different band. The
overall approach to music was so different that most people would not even
think it was the same band. And when the group transformed into a pop music
machine many of their original fans probably lost all interest. Recorded
in 2001, Blues Don't Change features guitarist Peter Green
returning to his roots. This album was originally only sold at concerts
and through the band's web site. But thanks to the folks at Eagle Rock the
album is finally seeing a proper commercial release. What is surprising
about these tunes is how direct and clean they are. Instead of overblown
overproduced blues (which is what we normally hear in the twenty-first century),
you get songs that absolutely sound like the real thing. Joining Green on
these tracks are Nigel Watson (guitar), Larry Tolfree (drums),
Roger Cotton (keyboards), and Pete Stroud (bass). These guys
perform songs made famous by classic artists like BB King, Willie Dixon,
Albert King, John Lee Hooker, and more. Authenticity abounds here on
cool cuts like "I Believe My Time Ain't Long," "Honey Bee,"
"Help Me Through The Day," and "Crawlin' King Snake."
Good solid stuff.
The
Grip Weeds - Speed of Live (CD, Ground
Up, Pop/rock)
We've been big fans of this band since we first heard their brand of intoxicating
semi-psychedelic pop many years ago. We generally prefer studio albums to
live albums so we approached this one with some reservations. Whatever reservations
we had were immediately dispersed as soon as we heard the band launch into
"Every Minute"... The Grip Weeds are obviously first and
foremost a live band that packs a major power punch. We love these
folks' studio sound...but after hearing this, we might actually prefer the
rawer live sound. Whatever the case, at this particular concert taped in
New Jersey the band was obviously on a roll. These fifteen tracks are forceful
and powerful...and fans will most certainly be impressed to find that those
wonderful vocal harmonies remain perfectly intact here. If you ever loved
bands like The Beatles, The Who, The Nazz, or Redd
Kross you owe it to yourself to get your hands on this album. There's
also a DVD release of the concert that we haven't seen yet. If you're a
Grip Weeds fan, you probably already have this one. If you aren't familiar
with the band, this is an excellent starting point. Kickass rockin'
cuts include "Salad Days," "Strange Change Machine,"
"Infinite Soul," and "Astral Man." This band just keeps
getting better and better... TOP PICK.
Hand To Man Band - You Are Always On Our Minds (CD, Post
Consumer, Progressive/experimental/rock/jazz)
If you're looking for something familiar and easy, you won't find
it here (!). This is one of those albums that was created purely out of
inspiration and creativity. The artists don't seem to be motivated by anything
except the desire to express themselves. And boy oh boy do they express
themselves on You Are Always On Our Minds. Hand To Man Band
is the quartet comprised of Mike Watt, Thollem McDonas, John
Dieterich, and Tim Barnes. These guys have come up with a real
winner of an album...and it certainly does not sound like all the rest.
The tracks on this CD combine elements of progressive rock with experimental
and jazz...and ultimately have their own peculiar sound and style. Seventeen
cuts here that clock in at just over 40 minutes. Some of these compositions
are instrumentals while others feature vocals and/or voices. Bizarre stuff
that is surprisingly listenable and warm. We love it when folks extend boundaries
without alienating everyone in the process. This album is truly inspired
and effective. Our favorite cuts include "Forces Conspiring,"
"We Learned The Unreasoning," "Thinks This," "They
Pretty Right" (great song title, that one...), "Semina
System," and "Thin Incision Split Decision." Top pick.
Peter
Hannan - Rethink Forever (CD, Artifact Music, Progressive/choral/electronic)
In our many years listening to and reviewing music, we've never heard anything
quite like this before. Canada's Peter Hannan combines two
worlds that rarely collide: choral music and electronics. The result...is
a strangely bewildering and hypnotic experience not to be missed. We have
to admit that in some ways this album gives us the feeling that we're listening
to two different artists and/or albums at once. Rethink Forever is
divided into four main sections: "Rethink Forever," "The
City of Granada on the Surface of Mars," "Happiness Index,"
and "No Brighter Sun: No Darker Night." Our guess is that most
listeners won't know what to make of this. When you delve into arenas that
have not yet been explored, there are bound to be some strange circumstances.
We can't compare this to any other artists because the music stands squarely
on its own. Interestingly different and strangely provocative...
Heart - Strange Euphoria (CD Box Set, Epic
Legacy, Pop)
Before we begin here, we have to admit right off the bat that we never cared
for the band Heart. The songs never pushed our buttons and we never
cared for the vocals. Somehow the music always came across seeming calculated
and contrived. That said...Strange Euphoria has a lot to offer the
band's fans. The beautifully packaged box set includes three CDs, a DVD,
and a booklet featuring tons of photographs and reflections written by Nancy
Wilson and Ann Wilson. We expected this to be a mere collection/overview
of the band's music...but we were surprised to find the CDs chock full of
different versions of songs including plenty of rarely heard demo recordings.
So instead of simply re-treading tracks you've heard time and time again...this
set offers a great deal of additional insight into Nancy and Ann's musical
universe. If you didn't like Heart this set probably won't win you over.
But if you ever liked or loved the band...our guess is that this is a treasure
trove of audio delights that are a MUST HAVE...
Caroline
Herring - Camilla (CD, Signature
Sounds, Pop)
The sixth full-length release from Caroline Herring. This young lady
has already carved her own niche in the world of music. She's a critic's
favorite and her music has popped up in some rather prestigious places.
Camilla will no doubt fans the flames of her career even higher as
this ten track album probably captures this captivating young artist at
the zenith of her career. Her songs should appeal to anyone who ever appreciated
Alison Krauss...although she is by no means a copycat artist. Caroline's
songs combine elements from folk, bluegrass, and pop. She wrote nine of
the ten songs on this album...and they're all focused and rather brilliant.
She has a great voice and comes across sounding like an artist who truly
loves making music. This is pure stuff... written from a place in the heart
where things actually matter. After hearing this, we can see why so many
folks are singing this lady's praises. She's definitely a genuine and real
classic artist with a great deal to offer. Our favorite cuts include "Camilla,"
"Fireflies," "Summer Song," and "Joy Never Ends."
Highlands - Singularity (Independently released CD EP, Hard shoegaze
pop/rock)
The four guys in Highlands aren't releasing too much information
about themselves...apparently because they want to focus folks' attention
on the music itself. A smart move...because the seven tracks on this self-released
CD-R speak for themselves. These fellows play a slow, hard, driving shoegazer
type of pop/rock that is heavily infused with effects and psychedelia. It's
kinda like mixing acid bands from the 1970s with dazed out shoegazers from
the 1990s. Merging these styles works surprisingly well...and playing with
that extra muscular punch adds just the right amount of ultra zest
to the music. This is a short disc clocking in at just over half an hour...but
in that amount of time these guys managed to blow us away. Cool heavy rockers
include "Railroad," "Evil," "Sunshine," and
"Brain Drain." This band is one helluva heady experience...!
Adam
Hill - Two Hands, Tulips (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The last time we heard from Canada's Adam Hill was way back in 2009
when we covered his album Them Dirty Roads. The album did quite well
in underground circles and afterward Hill spent many months touring to promote
the record. But the urge to create eventually set back in...so he dissolved
the band and retreated to a small town on the Pacific ocean to concentrate
on writing and recording. The result...is Two Hands, Tulips. Whereas
the last album fit into the folks/roots category, Roads is more difficult
to pigeonhole. The songs still have folky/roots elements...but they also
have pop sensibilities...and there are some unexpected sounds and ideas
laced into the arrangements. This time around Adam reminds us of what Ben
Folds might sound like if he played folky pop and was more experimental.
The emphasis here is on songs...lyrics and melodies...and all of these well-crafted
tracks hit the target dead center. Hill is a man who isn't creating music
to impress or make money. These songs were created by an artist who is genuinely
inspired to make music. There are plenty of cool threads of genuine-ness
running through these tunes that are most appealing. Thirteen keepers here
including "Sarabande I, "French Films," "I Shall Not
Be Moved," and "She Heard A Sound." Cool stuff...REAL.
Steve Hillage Band - Live at the Gong Unconvention, Amsterdam 2006 (CD, G-Wave, Pop)
We've been Steve Hillage fans for such a long time. While
other kids in high school were tripping their brains out listening to Pink
Floyd and Jimi Hendrix (both of which were and are completely valid)...we
chose to enter other dimensions by listening to the music of British psychedelic
artists like Steve Hillage and Gong. We've always felt that
this man was one of the greatest psychedelic guitarists of all time. Instead
of burning out or becoming an acid casualty, Hillage has continued his career
right on into the twenty-first century with his bands System 7, Mirror
System, and Steve Hillage Band. No matter what he's done or what
he's doing, Steve always creates music that hits the right spot in our brains
and hearts. And the reason...is probably the fact that Hillage has always
remained true to his vision and creates music for all the right reasons.
Live at the Gong Unconvention, Amsterdam 2006 captures Steve playing
tunes from the past with his associates Miquette Giraudy, Mike Howlett,
Chris Taylor, Basil Brooks, Paul Francis, Andy Anderson, Dave Stewart, Didier
Malherbe, Daevid Allen, Lawrie Allen, and Tim Blake (whew!).
The first six tracks are from 2006, the remaining four are 1970s recordings
from the vaults. The album begins with the ultra-catchy "Hello Dawn"
(from the criminally overlooked Motivation Radio album) before quickly
switching to a version of The Beatles' "It's All Too Much."
The band then ventures into well-known material from the classic Fish
Rising album. It's interesting to compare the new live sound with the
vintage recordings...but both are absolutely valid and credible. There is
also a DVD release of this 2006 concert that we haven't seen yet. We gleaned
from the press release that Hillage may be preparing for another voyage
into progressive rock in the near future...we sure hope so. This
incredibly talented man has never received the mainstream worldwide recognition
he so obviously deserves. Steve Hillage was...and is...one of the
best. His music and sense of creative energy remain completely intact...
TOP PICK.
The
History of Panic - Fight! Fight! Fight!
(Independently released CD, Pop)
Unbelievably fresh and vibrant upbeat modern pop from Gerald Roesser...the
man who is The History of Panic. If you like danceable pop
with a definite positive groove...there's a good chance you'll pop yer top
over the tunes on Fight! Fight! Fight!. Gerald recorded the album
in his home studio over the course of two years. These tracks are slick
and well-produced...but they don't have that overblown sound that ruins
so many new commercial releases. Folks adding their vocal talents to the
proceedings are Leah Diehl (Lightning Love), Casimer Pascal
(Pas/Cal), Trevor Naud (Zoos of Berlin), and Keith
Thompson (The Electric Six)...whew! Roesser's influences
include Junior Boys, Phoenix, Daft Punk, and The Smiths...and
we can hear traces of all of these in his music. If you like cool techno-driven
pop with a heavy emphasis on intoxicating beats...these tracks might just
send you up to heaven. Eleven kickass cuts including "Out of
Control," "The Devil's Boredom," "History," and
"Love's Disaster." Totally cool in so many ways... TOP PICK.
You don't
Ever want anything
Living inside
You.
Kasabian - Live at the 02 London 15/12/2011 (DVD + CD, Eagle Rock Entertainment, Pop/rock)
Prior to receiving this we had never even heard of the band Kasabian.
Can you believe it? And then of all things we have the nerve to call ourselves
music reviewers...ha! This band is obviously hugely successful, as is purely
evidenced by this concert captured on DVD in 2011. We usually get in on
the ground floor with new bands so seeing a band that has already made its
way up the ladder and plays for thousands of people is a bit unusual. Our
initial reaction is that this band's music sounds something like a cross
between Black Rebel Motorcycle Club and Frankie Goes To Hollywood
(more the latter than the former). They've got some good songs and they're
good performers...but we have some reservations about these guys. Actually
the main (and only real) reservation is the lead singer. Not only does he
have one of those pointy haircuts...but he performs like a Bono-esque
cheerleader...always inviting the crowd to yell and cheer and crap like
that. Kinda irritating. Another thing that detracts here is that there is
such an emphasis on lasers and lights and backdrops that it really makes
it hard to focus on the band. The pluses...are that the lasers and lights
and backdrops are really really cool. Another big plus...is that
the audience was obviously loving every minute of this show. So we can definitely
tell that the fans got what they wanted. There are lots of things to like
about this band...some of the songs are neat...the guitarist is great and
has a cool voice...the drummer kicks ass...and the bass player really pumps.
In addition to the DVD this set also includes an audio CD (although all
of the tracks from the live concert are not included). This didn't win us
over on this band...but it does make us want to go back in time and
experience what they were like before they met with big time success...
King
of Spain - All I Did Was Tell Them The Truth
And They Thought It Was Hell (CD, New
Granada, Pop)
King of Spain is the Tampa, Florida-based duo comprised of Matt
Slate (vocals, guitar, programming, synths, percussion, strings) and
Daniel Wainright (bass, programming, vocals). The band was originally
the one man project created by Slate...but in 2009 Wainright joined the
band. The strangely titled All I Did Was Tell Them The Truth And They
Thought It Was Hell is surprisingly accessible and resilient and features
ten well-crafted pop songs that are moody, haunting, and rather beautiful.
These two guys' voices blend together seamlessly...and they come up with
some exotic unorthodox arrangements that give their songs a cool dreamy
ambient feel. This album will no doubt be a favorite among fans of the underground
in no time flat. Smart provocative cuts include "Basement Fires,"
"Green Eyes," "Perception," and "Seamless, Spotless
Sidewalks (Redux)." Top pick.
Ben
Levin Group - Invisible Paradise (Independently
released CD, Progressive)
There are so many bands out there regurgitating the sound of 1970s progressive
rock bands...and many of them fail miserably. Probably because they're trying
to recreate something that is a thing of the past. Ben Levin and
his associates bring the ideas and feeling of progressive rock from the
past squarely into focus...by totally reinventing the genre on their own
terms. Invisible Paradise is...an overwhelming and intensely complex
musical production featuring some bewilderingly difficult stuff for twenty-first
century music addicts. Anyone who ever appreciated music by bands like Yes,
Emerson, Lake, & Palmer, and King Crimson is likely to
become instantly addicted to this album. It's so intense that it comes across
more like a state-of-the-art film soundtrack than an audio album. Thirty-eight
minutes of music that you won't soon forget...WHEW!
Lola Versus - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Fall On Your Sword (CD, Lakeshore, Soundtrack)
This is a different sort of soundtrack with a different sort of sound and
feel. The music for the film Lola Versus was composed and created
by the band Fall On Your Sword. The band is actually the duo of Will
Bates and Phil Mossman...two guys who have already made quite
a name for themselves as master multi-media composers. These instrumental
tracks incorporate a wide variety of sounds, styles, and influences. Rather
than tie themselves to one tired genre, Bates and Mossman seem to let music
take them wherever it may...which makes for some rather inventive compositions.
Part of what makes this soundtrack so appealing is the fact that these tracks
are not overproduced. These guys had the good sense to keep things
simple for the most part...concentrating on the songs and melodies instead
of layering everything to death. Pensive, slightly puzzling, and always
on target, this is a soundtrack that that can also be enjoyed purely for
its own merits. Cool reflective cuts include "Beach Dream," "Encounter
at Pratt," "Walk To Water," and "End Titles."
Jason
Masi - Life Is Wonderful (CD, Reel
Works Media, Pop)
More slick melodic commercial pop from Jason Masi. Unlike a lot of
other artists you see splattered around on these pages, this young fellow
isn't playing for a small esoteric audience...he's recording ultra-familiar
sounding pop music aimed squarely at a mass audience. Masi used to live
in Virginia where he made a name for himself fronting the band Jubeus.
After the band split up he moved to Washington, D.C. in 2010...and now seems
poised for an ultimately rewarding solo career. This guy writes and records
the kind of classic pop that most fans know and love. His songs combine
elements from folk, soul, blues, and pop into an instantly satisfying mix.
These songs don't require a lot of thought or concentration...just a desire
to kick up your boots and have a good ol' time. Eleven clean cuts here including
"The Right Kind of Things," "That Summer," "People,"
and "Life Is Wonderful."
Men
In Black 3 - Music by Danny Elfman
(CD, Sony Classical,
Soundtrack/score)
If there's anyone out there who has developed their own unique sound and
style in the world of music for film, it must surely be Danny Elfman.
This man initially blew us away with the music he composed for The Nightmare
Before Christmas...and we've been blown away ever since. The score/soundtrack
for Men In Black 3 features huge orchestrated compositions that will
surely add the needed dynamics to this film. Like previous Elfman projects,
these pieces are pure magic. They're pensive...exciting...exotic...thoughtful...and
most importantly exceedingly precise. It is Elfman's attention to
detail that has probably made him one of the most in-demand composers in
the world today. Twenty-two mind bending tracks here including "Spiky
Bulba," "Out On A Limb," "True Story," and "Mission
Accomplished." Haven't seen the film yet...but the music is an obvious
Top Pick...
Dan
Miraldi - Sugar & Adrenaline (Independently
released CD, Pop)
A straight shot of instantly catchy guitar-driven pop/rock from Cleveland,
Ohio's Dan Miraldi. Many of the songs on Sugar & Adrenaline
have a heavy 1970s influence. Dan isn't afraid of writing songs with hit
potential. In fact, this album spins like a "best of" collection
even though none of these songs are hits...yet. The crystal clear
direct approach works, and Maraldi's got a voice and presence that really
gives his music extra zest. There's plenty of personality to be found in
these tunes...this young man's obviously getting a major kick out of making
music. Dan was influenced by several classic artists which may explain the
commercial-oriented sound of his own music. We can hear traces of tons of
other artists here including (but not limited to) Nick Lowe, Mott
The Hoople, The Chainsaw Kittens (?!), Richard Hell, and
even Joel Plaskett (!). An entertaining solid album from start to
finish. Cool cuts include "Few Rock Harder," "Road Warrior,"
"Record Collection," and "Revenge."
Music
From The Film - Vi Kommer Til A Fa Deg
(CD, Zero Moon, Experimental)
When you consider the state of commercial music today...you may tend to
think that music is no longer relevant for listeners with the ability the
think. Commercial music has sunk so low that there's hardly anything
listenable that ever even sinks into mainstream consciousness. But there
are always things happening underneath the surface. And although it takes
some effort treading around the internet to find it, there is more creative
credible music being made now than ever before in the history of mankind.
Music From The Film is the duo of Gary Young and Arthur
Harrison...joined on this album by Kevin Buckholdt. We love the
introductory statement on the press release that says these guys "...have
been basking in obscurity together for over 22 years." It's a statement
about modern music. If you make music that is creative and credible...it
will almost certainly be appreciated by only a very few. But popularity
isn't really the point though...is it? Folks with a conscience and soul
aren't making music for money or fame anyway. They're making music out of
a pure genuine desire to create and express themselves. As such, the strangely
titled Vi Kommer Til A Fa Deg is a complete success. Sure, the average
listener would be frightened off by these tracks. But that's not who these
guys are playing for anyway. Twenty-two heady peculiar and inventive cuts.
Cool.
Nervebreakers - Hijack The Radio! (CD, Get
Hip, Rock/pop)
Bright punchy upbeat pop/rock from the Nervebreakers. These guys
were originally out there in the world rocking in the 1970s and 1980s and
one of the first bands of their type to be treading around the Southwestern
United States. Hijack The Radio! is a compilation of some of the
band's original recordings from the 1970s. The songs are simple and direct,
the guitars loud and in-your-face, and the rhythms driving and steady. The
band has just reunited...which should result in some interesting new recordings
in the very near future. Also pending are more Nervebreakers reissues from
the folks at Get Hip (!). This classy fifteen cut album features plenty
of heartfelt rockers including "My Girlfriend Is A Rock," "So
Sorry," "Part Of My Love," and "Strange Movies."
Normal
Love - Survival Tricks (CD, Public Eyesore, Experimental/rock/progressive)
Folks into obtuse nervous jerky experimental music, listen up. Those who
don't...should consider immediately covering their ears and running for
the exit. Normal Love is a weird band. A very, very, very
weird band. According to the press release, this band creates music by "...bypassing
existing standards and inhabiting a strobing black-lit world where apocalyptic
decadence meets the iron fist of Draconian law." Whoa. That may
be a strange descriptive passage but it gives an adequate description of
the tunes on Survival Tricks. This isn't atonal noise because there
is order here. It's just a different sort of order with lots
of oddball curves being thrown at the listener all at once. Imagine Yoko
Ono fronting a group of Modern Classical musicians with a rock band
playing in the foreground...and you might begin to have an idea of the overall
sound. These folks are playing for a very small audience...and they obviously
don't give a rat's ass about giving people what they want. In our odd little
book of wisdom, that is a very good thing. Eight bizarre cuts here
including "Lend Some Treats," "Breathe Through Your Skin,"
"Cultural Uppercut," and "Cosmetic Rager." This music
is a wildly unorthodox trip...
The
Odd Trio - Birth of the Minotaur (Independently
released CD, Jazz/progressive rock/instrumental)
In all of our years covering music we can't recall having ever received
any jazz from Athens, Georgia. The appropriately titled Odd Trio
is just that...three guys with an odd sound and approach to music. The band
is comprised of Brian Smith (guitars), Marc Gilley (saxophones),
and Todd Mueller (drums). To be more accurate, these guys aren't
just playing jazz...they play a fusion of styles that incorporates ideas
from jazz, rock, and progressive...all combined into a heady mix that is
surprisingly accessible and fluid. The playing here is impeccable...and
sure to impress even the most discriminating listeners. The tunes on Birth
of the Minotaur run the gamut from smooth and safe...to wildly improvisational.
Twelve groove-oriented cuts including "Raucous Bacchus," "Deckard's
Dream," and "Whiskey." Peculiar and intriguing.
Odetta - 7 Classic Albums Plus Bonus Radio Tracks (CD, Real
Gone Folk & Roots, Folk/blues/spiritual)
We always wanted to experience the early recordings of Odetta...but
it was always somewhat expensive and time consuming trying to obtain all
her early albums because she's never been that well known and therefore
her discs aren't scattered all over the place. We decided to take a chance
and order this four CD set because of the price. Seven albums (?!!) plus
bonus tracks...for TEN BUCKS (and that INCLUDED shipping)...??? It seemed
too good to be true but...in this case, we are pleased as punch.
We didn't have any of Odetta's early albums before...and now we're
plowing through a whole stack of 'em. And they still sound great. Man oh
man what a voice... Some of the tracks sound kinda dated because
of the arrangements... But overall, this is quite a package and it's MORE
than worth what you pay for it. Which brings up the question...should these
types of sets be allowed to be sold? Apparently in Europe once music is
over 50 years old companies can duplicate and sell it without paying any
royalties. Or at least that's what we read on the internet (???).
If that is the case, it seems sad that the artists (and/or the artists'
families) don't receive ANYTHING. There may be challenges to this kind of
rampant reissuing...but in the meantime, don't be shocked to see incredibly
CHEAP multi-album packages by artists like Elvis Presley,
Chet Atkins, Gene Vincent, Les Baxter, Julie London
and more popping up all over the place. Apparently some of the packages
are better than others so you may want to read some reviews before buying.
Some folks have reported albums being in the wrong order chronologically,
internet sites not being able to read the tracks, etc. etc. etc. And the
packaging is bare bones, of course. But if you want to pick up some great
music from the past for almost nothing...just think of all the great albums
that were released in the late 1950s and early 1960s...that are just now
old enough for folks in Europe to repackage and sell... Hell, there's gonna
be an ONSLAUGHT of great stuff hitting the market at BARGAIN BIN prices...
Ray
Parker - Swingin' Never Hurt Nobody
(Independently released CD, Jazz)
Smooth clean inviting jazz from Ray Parker. Ray learned a lot from
his father Gene Parker and doesn't mind admitting it. Swingin'
Never Hurt Nobody is a cool trip into modern minimalistic jazz. Joining
Parker on this album are Russell George (violin) and Jon Hart
(guitar). Together, the three present some mighty tasty and direct compositions
that are sure to please just about anyone who appreciates jazz trios. Parker's
bass is inventive and warm and George and Hart provide the perfect accompaniment.
We like where Ray seems to be coming from mentally. Instead of preparing
set lists for live shows he "reads the audience" to determine
what will best suit each situation. How cool is that? Nine fine tracks
here including "Guitar Sammich / Now's the Time," "Always,"
"Zingaro," and "Goodbye." This one hits the spot.
People Like Us - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by A. R. Rahman
(CD, Lakeshore, Soundtrack)
This is a film about average people and genuinely real situations...so it
will probably be a major flop (heh heh heh...). Seriously though...because
folks are so enamored with special effects and overblown productions, in
all honesty a film like this will probably be overlooked. We haven't
seen People Like Us yet...but it sounds like it is probably a credible
and effective film that deals with interpersonal issues between friends
and family. The music seems to mirror the events of everyday life...well
crafted by composer A. R. Rahman. This is not the typical overblown
Hollywood soundtrack. These tracks are subtle, poignant, and smooth. You
could either pick this up because you dug the film...or just because you
wanted some cool reflective relaxing music to put guests at ease. Eighteen
attractive cuts here including "People Like Us," "Beat The
Living," "Six Rules," and "I Am Your Brother."
Philippe
Petit - Eugenie (Limited edition CD-R,
Alrealon Musique, Experimental/instrumental)
France's Philippe Petit is easily one of the most prolific recording
artists of the twenty-first century. This creative fellow records and releases
two or three times the amount of the average musician. Eugenie is
being released as a 10" vinyl release and as a download...so apparently
there is no traditional CD release of this particular album. The disc is
divided into four sections: "An Air of Intrigue," "Clapoutique,"
"Pyramid of the Moon," and "Magma From the Aquarium."
Petit prefers to be called a 'musical travel agent' rather than a composer...and
that particular fact may help to explain and describe his music. Philippe
creates music as a pure artistic statement...seeming to have little regard
for how the music is perceived after it is created. We love the pure side
of creativity...so this man continues to blow us away with each and every
release. These four tracks will indeed transport you to another level and/or
dimension...which is most likely what it was designed to do. These odd compositions
combine so many sounds and styles that it is difficult to try and come up
with adequate ways of explaining and/or describing them. But whatever it
is...it works. Beautifully strange and abstract. Top pick.
Piranha
3DD - Original Motion Picture Score: Music
by Elia Cmiral (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack)
This is a film that instantly caught our attention when we first saw the
previews. A movie about people...getting torn apart by piranha...? All RIGHT!
We haven't seen it yet but...we certainly will soon. The score for
the film was composed by Elia Cmiral who was born in Czechoslovakia
but moved to the United States in way back in 1987. Since that time Elia
has created music for tons of film and television projects...and there doesn't
seem to be any project he won't take on. This score features highly orchestrated
compositions with that great big huge theater sound. Some of the music is
surprisingly light and playful while others convey the deep dark urgency
that the moments require. Eighteen well-crafted tracks here including "Return
of the Piranhas," "Kiss of Life," "Bathtub Dream,"
and "Battle For the Water Park."
Prometheus - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Marc Streitenfeld
(CD, Sony Classical,
Soundtrack)
The soundtrack to the latest film from director Ridley Scott. This
is a remarkable disc full of incredibly effective compositions from musical
wonderkid extraordinaire Marc Streitenfeld. Regardless of whether
you see the film or not, if you love big orchestrated sound...you will get
some major thrills out of the Prometheus soundtrack. This CD features
25 instrumentals executed to absolute perfection. The disc clocks in at
just over 57 minutes and covers a wide range of emotions. The music ranges
from slow and methodical...to creepy and surreal...to wildly intense and
out-of-control...and back again. Streitenfeld has managed to come up with
music that is ultimately exciting and pushes multiple emotional buttons
all at once. If you think all film soundtracks sound alike, think again.
This one's a real standout...and parts of it may just scare the crap
out of you. Strangely intimidating cuts include "A Planet,"
"Not Human," "Hyper Sleep," and "Planting The Seed."
We hear a lot of soundtracks lately...this is one of the best. Top
pick.
Marty
Regan - Magic Mirror (CD, Navona, Instrumental/Japanese)
This album features compositions by American composer Marty Regan.
Judging by the tracks on this album, you'd never guess Regan is from the
United States. Marty composes music specifically written for Japanese instruments
and...according to the press release he "...explores the cross-cultural
exchange between Eastern and Western traditions, blending the two into a
dynamic sound that pushes the Japanese instruments to the very brink of
their musical boundaries." Well we couldn't have said it better
ourselves (!). These intricate well-crafted pieces effectively bridge
the gap between the two cultures. Performing on the album are Seizan
Sakata, Tetsuya Noazawa, Erina Matsumara, Izumi Fujikawa, Kenji Yamaguchi,
Nobuhiro Wakatsuki, Ray Jin, Hitomi Nakamura, Kasue Tajima, Maya Sakai,
Yuka Sawade, Shozan Tanabe, Gen Takeuchi, Etsuko Hirano, Saeko Wakiya, Masabumi
Sekiguchi, and Akiko Sakura (whew!). Six beautifully executed
lengthy tracks...presented in an ultra-cool bilingual package. Beautiful,
haunting, tranquil, mesmerizing... TOP PICK.
Sean
Renner - Sekhmet
(Independently released CD, Instrumental)
An intriguing collection of well-crafted compositions from St. Louis, Missouri's
Sean Renner. We can usually determine rather quickly where an artist
is coming from after hearing a handful of songs. After spinning Sekhmet
several times we're still having difficulty trying to find the right words
to describe these songs. Renner writes compositions that don't fit squarely
into any one specific genre. His songs combine elements from pop, progressive,
classical, folk, and atmospheric music...and you never know exactly where
he's heading from one song to the next. One thing is certain...this man
is inspired. These songs were obviously created out of a pure passion
for music. The arrangements are specific and rather spectacular and Sean
has a voice that is unique in the world of music. In some ways his songs
remind us of a modern American orchestrated version of Robert Wyatt...but
only slightly. This one could take months to absorb completely...and that
is probably part of the beauty of these cuts. Twelve inspired creations
here including "Prelude," "Iron Age," "Facts &
Figures," "Spell 17," and "Weight." Top pick.
Tommy
Roe - Devil's Soul Pile (CD, Airebelle,
Pop)
We were sure as heck surprised to find this one in our trusty ol' mailbox...(!).
A new album from 1960s bubblegum icon Tommy Roe...we would have never
guessed or expected it. It's great to hear Roe again. If you're expecting
the Tommy from decades past, think again...because as we would and should
expect...this fellow has matured and evolved. The smooth reflective mood
of the tracks on Devil's Soul Pile are a great fit for Roe at this
point in time. His voice sounds as great as ever and he still knows how
to write crowd pleasing tunes. Not only has he recorded and released this
album, but Tommy is also playing a new series of concerts. His current band
is led by well-known guitarist/music director Rick Levy...so you
know these will be concerts where quality is key. Nine soft smart cuts here
including "Memphis Me," "What If's And Should Have's,"
"Without Her," and "Devil's Soul Pile."
Romper - Sifting Through The Rubble (CD, Rompytown, Pop)
We were immediately drawn to this band and album...the image and overall
concept caught our attention fast. Apocalyptic pop with various verbal and
visual references to kids? Hmmm...interesting. Of course the name
Romper is a huge plus as well. To try and describe the basic sound
of Sifting Through The Rubble... Imagine mixing some elements from
My Dad Is Dead with other elements from The Velvet Underground...then
mix them around and add some sedatives...and you might begin to get an idea
of what's going on here. This is a true underground album created first
and foremost from inspiration. The man behind the music is a fellow in Pacifica,
California named Paul Freeman who is also a music journalist and
screenwriter. This man's moody slightly obtuse pop will be embraced by fans
of the underground...while probably confusing for folks who exist on a lower
level of consciousness. There's a lot to take in here...eighteen tracks
that clock in at just over 60 minutes. We can't help but dig peculiar songs
like "Road To Ruin," "One of the Wanted," "The
Neighborhood," and "Contemplating Suicide." Interesting stuff
that offers a uniquely different perspective...
Ruperts People - 45 RPM (CD, Angel
Air, Pop)
We receive some of the coolest obscure oddities from the folks at
Great Britain's Angel Air label. We've always been nuts about British bands
from the 1960s. It was definitely one of the golden decades for the country
with so much creativity going on that it naturally bled all over to the
rest of the world. Although they were known around their home territories,
it's probably a safe bet to say that the guys in Ruperts People didn't
enjoy the same success that many other bands did at the time. The band's
story is long and winding...and is well detailed in the twelve page booklet
that accompanies this CD. The folks in this band were always operating on
the fringes...but they had ties to some really amazing artists and companies
(too numerous to mention here). Suffice to say, Ruperts People have probably
been best known and loved by other folks in the industry. The bulk of this
album consists of singles and live tracks from the 1960s although the last
six are from the 1970s (the band was then known as Matchbox and/or
Swampfox). Includes "All So Long Ago" by an early version
of the band called The Sweet Feeling and other cool tracks like "I
Can Show You," "Charles Brown," and "Reflections of
Charles Brown." Recommended for fans of The Move, The Kinks, The
Who, and The Rutles.
Saint
Saviour - Union (Advance CD, Surface
Area, Progressive pop)
Wow. This album is a good example of why we continue to review music. Although
we try to avoid being what we are (which is...underground music snobs)--we
have to admit that we get a kick out of hearing incredible up-and-coming
stuff like this before everyone else. But onto the music at hand... This
is the debut full-length release from Great Britain's Saint Saviour,
the one woman band created by an incredibly gifted young musician named
Becky Jones. Union is going to instantly catch on with music
fans around the world as Ms. Jones' supporters quickly line up to take in
her wonderfully warm and absorbing modern progressive pop. These songs incorporate
sounds and elements from a wide range of sources...but some of her ideas
are immediately reminiscent of classic artists like Kate Bush, The
Cocteau Twins, and St. Vincent. What is perhaps most interesting
about these songs...is how they incorporate ideas from the past into music
of the present. Saviour has an incredibly expressive voice that will give
you chills. Beautifully executed compositions include "Mercy,"
"Tightrope," "Reasons," "Jennifer," "Fallen
Trees," and "Horse." This is an album that will be played
and discussed for decades to come. TOP PICK.
Jay
Shepard - Harsh Mistress (CD, 825, Pop)
Heavily produced modern pop featuring smart melodies and kickass guitars.
This is the debut full-length release from Jay Shepard. After spinning
this one a few times, we can say with certainly that this young man is on
a quick path to success. Instead of taking the roundabout artsy approach
to music, Shepard offers instantly accessible songs that could easily be
appreciated by millions of fans. His songs incorporate elements from classic
artists from the past...which are then infused with heady state-of-the-art
twenty-first century technology. The result is a smart and infectious batch
of tunes featuring thick overdubs and spacey effects. The vocals are the
real treat here. Jay's got an acutely fine-tuned voice that works perfectly
within the framework of his compositions. And the harmonies are out-of-this-world.
No matter whether you like the ultra-artsy stuff or that same old familiar
hit sound...you're bound to fine something here to love. Our favorite cuts
include "Come Back Home," "Truth," "The City,"
and "Harsh Mistress."
Shoes - Ignition (CD, Black
Vinyl, Pop)
When we opened up the package and saw this album inside we couldn't believe
our eyes... A new album...from Shoes...??!!! We had pretty
much come to the conclusion that these cool guys had permanently thrown
in the towel because of the world's general hesitation to embrace their
heavenly pop music last century. We've always felt that these guys created
the cream of the crop in the world of 1970s and 1980s pop music. As such,
we were always baffled as to why they didn't attract a larger fan base...?
It's probably just a matter of timing and marketing...plus the fact that
to truly appreciate Shoes tunes you must hear them at least a dozen
times or more before the real meat sinks in. So it's been eighteen years
since the last album was released...what has changed? Not a whole lot...thankfully!
Gary Klebe, John Murphy, and Jeff Murphy are still
writing crystal clear guitar-driven pop tunes and their vocals still sound
as mind blowing as they ever did. We were pleased as punch to find that
these guys are now keeping their recordings relatively simple and straightforward...since
that's what initially drew us to their music in the first place (if you
have never heard the beautifully crafted home-recorded album Black Vinyl
Shoes do yourself a favor and pick up a copy--it's never too late...).
The tunes on the new album rely heavily on those cool trademark Shoes guitars...very
reminiscent of some of the band's earlier albums. We were in love with Shoes
in the 1970s...and now the love affair continues. Fifteen absolute direct
hits here. Our favorite cuts include "Head vs. Heart," "The
Joke's On You," "Maybe Now," "Say It Like You Mean It,"
and "Only We Remain." We can only hope this is the beginning of
a brand new series of releases from this criminally overlooked band. Shoes
are one of the greatest pop bands of all time. TOP PICK.
Silversun
Pickups - Neck of the Woods (CD, Dangerbird, Rock/pop)
This is Silversun Pickups' third full-length release on the Dangerbird
label. These guys really hit the target dead center with this one...it's
no wonder their fan base seems to grow exponentially with every passing
month. Neck of the Woods is one big charged up intense jolt of modern
progressive pop with a difference. These tracks are heavily produced and
feature thick arrangements and plenty of heady effects. But the vocal melodies
always remain the central focus of the proceedings. The band is comprised
of Brian Aubert (guitars, vocals), Nikki Monninger (bass),
Joe Lester (keyboards), and Christopher Guanlao (drums). Considering
how intelligent this band's songs are, we're actually surprised that so
many people like their music [smart stuff usually seems to alienate most
listeners]. There's no telling how many countless hours were spent crafting
the tunes on Woods. The attention to detail is staggering. What is
certain is that this is another one the fans are going to love. Eleven
captivating cuts here including "Skin Graph," "Busy Bees,"
"Simmer," and "Out of Breath." Top pick.
The
Small Cities - With Fire (CD, Princess, Pop)
The debut full-length release from the Twin Cities-based band The Small
Cities. These guys previously released an EP that was well received...but
after reading the press release our guess is that this is the disc that'll
increase their fan base exponentially. With Fire is a nice solid
collection of modern pop/rock tracks with a heavy emphasis on melodies and
lyrics. These guys tread on the fine line that separates commercial pop
from underground rock. Their songs are easy to grasp and appreciate...but
they're a far cry from the predictable modern crap that the average twenty-first
century listener craves. Some of the songs are more pop oriented while others
pack quite a punch. The band has an excellent charged up rhythm section
and their loud overdriven fuzzy guitars sound just great. Add in
cool focused vocals...and you have a band that is shooting fully loaded.
Our favorite cuts include "Home Is Where The Start Is," "Last
Winter," and "Sunday After Sunday." Good solid stuff with
guts.
Sonnet
Cottage - Another Time (Independently
released CD, Soft dreamy pop)
Pensive, soft, melodic music from Sonnet Cottage. This is the debut
full-length release from this Virginia-based trio that is comprised of sisters
Rachel Russell and Torey Russell and creative mastermind Kent
Heckaman. These beautifully crafted tracks feature dreamy melodies,
ultra-soothing vocals, and an overall somber relaxing vibe. To give you
an idea of what this sounds like... Imagine the girls in Azure Ray
playing modern folk pop...and that should give you a fairly good idea of
what's happening here. This is an extremely consistent disc. Clocking in
at just over 36 minutes, there's not a bad track to be found here...they
all work exceptionally well. These folks have done everything right
setting the stage for what will undoubtedly be a long and rewarding career.
Our favorite cuts include "Letting It All Go," "Another Time,"
"Little Did I Know," and "The Caretaker."
The
Soundtrack Of Our Lives - Throw It To The
Universe (CD, Yep Roc, Pop)
Several years ago we heard a few tracks by this band and really enjoyed
'em...but we never really got a proper dose of their music until now. This,
the group's seventh full-length release, will most likely be their last.
Kinda sad...particularly so when we realize how quickly we warmed up to
the tunes on Throw It To The Universe. These Swedish guys have accomplished
a lot over the past couple of decades. In addition to releasing critically
acclaimed albums, they've also toured the globe several times, and ended
up on a great many "best of" lists along the way. The band members
obviously wanted to end things on a high note here. This album features
nice smooth melodic tracks with cool effective arrangements and plenty of
layered harmonies. This may be too slick and polished for the true underground
artsy snobs out there. But to our ears these heavily produced cuts sound
very exacting and refined. Thirteen well-crafted tracks including "Throw
It To The Universe," "Where's The Rock?", "Busy Land,"
and "Shine On (There's Another Day After Tomorrow)." Well-realized
and focused...
Spider
Rockets - Bitten (CD, P-Dog,
Pop)
Loud ballsy pop/rock played with conviction and attitude. Based in Hazlet,
New Jersey, the folks in Spider Rockets are playing raunchy in-your-face
pop/rock that features totally groovy fuzzed out guitars, charging rhythms,
and a vocalist with real presence. The band is comprised of Helena Cos
(vocals), Johnny Nap (guitars), Dan Prestup (drums), and Timmy
Tobin (bass). These folks are treading in a world where heavy metal
meets catchy pop. The songs on Bitten are instantly inviting and
familiar...but most of the time they have a truly nasty bite (thus the
name...?). These songs have an explosive exciting sound that sets them
apart from other bands. These folks play like they mean it and they obviously
mean what they play. Ten well-crafted cuts here including "Going Down,"
"Scream," "Better When It's Loud," and "Bring Me
Around."
Clinton
St. John - Storied Hearts and the Three
Assimilations (Independently released CD + book, Progressive)
The sixth full-length release from Calgary's Clinton St. John. We
have not heard prior releases so we cannot compare and contrast here...only
offer observations of what we're hearing at present. St. John was formerly
in the bands The Cape May and Pale Air and also played in
Nina Nastasia's band. Storied Hearts and the Three Assimilations
is an instantly intriguing collection of songs. Clinton composes music that
incorporates ideas from folk, pop, progressive, and alternative rock...all
the while retaining a unique original edge. This album has an overall laidback
feel...but things never get boring. Listening to this, we can't help but
wonder who this man is influenced by...(?). There are so many hints of so
many other artists that it becomes impossible to come up with any easy reference
points. The main constant...are those smart articulate lyrics and cool subdued
vocals. Interesting arrangements abound, as the songs don't take the traditional
twists and turns. As if the interesting tunes weren't enough, this independent
release is attached to a cool 7" lyric booklet complete with nifty
surreal drawings. Beautiful, unusual, and hypnotic music that comes from
the heart... Top pick.
Newton D. Strandberg - Essays and Sketches (CD, Ravello,
Classical)
If you want to find modern classical composers...you will usually find them
teaching in colleges and universities across the country. This is probably
because it is usually so difficult to make a living in the twenty-first
century composing music. This album features unreleased recordings by longtime
Sam Houston State University faculty member Newton D. Strandberg.
These recordings were compiled by Strandberg's peers, students, and admirers.
As such, it offers an overview of this talented and under recognized man's
skills as a composer. The CD is divided into four sections: "Essay
For String Orchestra," "Amenhotep III," "String Trio"
(divided into four sections), and "Acts For Orchestra." This does
not sound like an album of unreleased recordings. The recording quality
is slick and polished...and the pieces are by no means throwaways or second-rate
discards. These intricate compositions are smooth, heavenly, and exciting...and
they should appeal to just about anyone who has enjoys cool credible classical
music...
Worsel
Strauss - Unattention Economy (German
import CD, Vicmod, Instrumental/experimental/progressive)
The debut solo album from Germany's Worsel Strauss. Up to this point
in time Strauss is possibly best known as one half of the band Schleusolz,
along with his musical mate Schani Wolf. The idea for Unattention
Economy is intriguing to say the least. Instead of playing and programming,
Strauss let's computers and machines generate the music...and then he edits
and mixes the results into finished compositions. As such, the tracks on
Economy are much more listenable than you might expect. Some of these
pieces sound very much like the soundtrack to a space flick you've never
seen. Others have an industrial feel while some are just pure exercises
in experimentation. Some pretty wild stuff here...and each track is not
a carbon copy of the last. Trippy heady cuts include "Behind Closed
Doors," "I Missed My Boat Because Of You," "Shopping
For Antibiotics," and "Discovering The Truth." Unique and
inventive stuff that's well worth your time and attention.
Dig teeth in
And tear away
At warm moist things
For pleasure.
Billy
Tsounis - Music For Your Vacation (Independently
released CD-R, Instrumental/improvisation/experimental)
We have to admire folks who create music out of a pure desire to create.
And that is obviously the case with Billy Tsounis. This fellow recorded
and self-released this album most likely knowing full well of its limited
audience potential. The appropriately titled Music For Your Vacation
is an exercise in unbridled creativity. Tsounis doesn't follow any conventional
forms or styles, he simply turns things on and expresses himself. Billy
is influenced by free jazz, improvisation, ambient, lo-fi, psychedelia,
noise, and drone...and we can hear traces of all of these in his music.
This disc is a truly peculiar spin...and there's a lot to take in.
Sixteen compositions that clock in at just under 80 minutes. Perplexing
tracks include "Barnyard Zombie Code," "Tub Dub," "Twirl,"
and "Fingerpick Space Dirt" (gotta love those song titles...!).
Interesting heady stuff.
Twinkle, twinkle
Little star,
Dammit, dammit, dammit,
Dammit.
Unknown
Component - Blood v. Electricity (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Unknown Component is the Ames, Iowa-based artist named Keith Lynch.
If you go to the web site you won't find much biographical information or
personal facts. But if you glimpse at Lynch's social networking sites, you
will find that this guy's music has already caught on with lots of folks.
And if you listen to Unknown Component, you'll see why. It's amazing
that this fellow is able to write and record stuff that sounds this professional
on his own without the help or assistance of anyone else. Just goes to show
you how far technology has advanced the recording process in the twenty-first
century. The tunes on Blood v. Electricity are moody and dark and
they have a big thick produced sound. Keith's voice is the focal point of
the music...but unlike many vocalists he never sounds like he's forcing
himself or pushing things too hard. Beautiful artwork graces the front and
back cover of the cool digipak sleeve. Eleven finely-tuned tracks here including
"Intuition," "Pendulum," "Moral Vultures,"
and "The Invisible Line." Solid.
Things are
Never like they
Used to be because
Things are always
Like they
Are.
Everything is
Boring
In its own
Way
A
Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter - Original motion picture soundtrack
Abundance - Manner effect
Jason Adamo Band - Bricks & mortar
A Dangerous Method - Original motion picture soundtrack
Age/Sex/Occupation - This side of the fence
Miguel Algarin / Albey Balgochian - Soul to sol
All The Right Moves - The monster I've become
Amazing Spider-Man - Music from the motion picture
Amenities Package - Out of phase
American Revolution - Buddha electrostorm
A Midsummer Night's Dream - The winter's tale
Ammo Without A Gun - Ammo Without A Gun
Answers To Nothing - Original motion picture soundtrack: Music by Craig
Richey
Richard Anthony - Love is the power
At Sea - A new machine
Auburn - Indian summer
Danielle Aument - Songs for you
Authorities - King pao au go-go
Avengers - Avengers
Axel's Axiom - Uncommon sense
Azud - Mrindle
B
Backwords - By the neck
Dave Ball - Don't forget your alligator
Bill Barner - Ten tunes
Bonnie Barnett Group - In between dreams
Bernie - Original motion picture soundtrack
Ivan "Funkboy" Bodley - Look at that cookie
Alisa Boniello - Lovestruck
Anna Borges & Bill Ward - Receita de samba
Francis Bowie - Francis Bowie
Crystal Bright & The Silver Hands - Muses and bones
Bucket Boys - Leavin'
Burning River Gamblers - Burning River Gamblers
Adam Burrows - Tall tales
C
David Caceres - David Caceres
Caltrop - Ten million years and eight minutes
Campbell Apartment - In
Tim Carey - Room 114
George Carill - Relevant
Carter Calvert - And the Roger Cohen Trio
Jeff Campbell - Stop and go
Guy Capecelatro III - North for the winter
Casa De Mi Padre - Original motion picture soundtrack
Case Theory - Cinematic
Susan Cattaneo - Little big sky
Celeste - Ready to fly
Sergio Cervetti - Nazca and other works
Cheers Elephant - Like wind blows fire
Chief Fuzzer - Transcendental road blues
Churchwood - Just the two of us
Citadel Besieged - The winter of evermore
Dawnya Clarine - Walking on water
C-Leb & The Kettle Black - C-Leb & The Kettle Black
Coke Weed - Nice dreams
Phil Collins - Live at montreaux 2004
Comanchero - The undeserved
Dylan Connor - Primitive times
Convalescents - Armageddon
Copernicus - Live! In Prague
Copernicus - Victim of the sky
Copper Gamins - EP
Corduroy Road - Two step silhouette
Cornflower Blue - Run down the rails
Chris Cortez - Aunt nasty
Gheorghe Costinescu - Jubilus & Pantomime
Crooked Saint - Sweating bullets
D
Trent Dabbs and Amy Stroup - Sugar + The Hi-lows
Peter Daltrey - King of thieves: The best of Pter Daltrey Volume 2
Dare Dukes + The Blackstock Collection - Thugs and china dolls
Darkest Hour - Original motion picture soundtrack: Score by Tyler Bates
Danny Darts - American songwriter
Dashboard Madonna - Neon life
Dashboard Madonna - Neon life EP
Ryan Davidson Trio - Ryan Davidson Trio
Dawns - Limited EP
Days of Grace - Original motion picture soundtrack
Dead Rat Orchestra - The guga hunters of ness
Deep Purple - With orchestra: Live at montreux 2011
Deep Purple - Total abandon Australia '99
Delta Moon - Black cat oil
Xander Demos - Guitarcadia
Jon DeRosa - Anchored EP
Jon DeRosa - A wolf in preacher's clothes
The Descendants - Music from the motion picture
Tony Desimone - The second time around
Destroy Nate Allen - With our powers combined
Disseriph - Disseriph
Donna and Doug - Take the day off
Doors - Mr. mojo risin': The story of l.a. woman
Drowned In Meaning - Drowned In Meaning
Drunken Prayer - Into the missionfield
John Du Cann - The many sides of 1967 - 1980
Dumb Blonde - Miss guy
Xenia Dunford and the Eastern Exile - Lonely streets
E
Earps - A tribute to Buck Owens: Buckle up!
Yelena Eckemoff - Forget me not
Electrik Emily - Radio active
Electrik Emily - Stiletto rock
Elevator Art - Tent city
Elika - Always the light
Annalise Emerick - Starry-eyed
Empire Escorts - Empire Escorts
Engloria - Drive EP
Evita - The broadway cast recording
EWW Yaboo - So many of the kids b/w Make it fast
Adam Ezra Group - Ragtop angel
F
Finding Clyde - Sacrifice it all
Jeremy Fisher - Mint Juleps
Tim Foljahn - Songs for an age of extinction
Forbidden Dimension - The golden age of lasers
Foreigner - Alive & rockin'
Forever Her Nighitmare - The rebirth
Bill Fox - One thought revealed
Frank - Here together
Ian Franklin and Infinite Frequency - Breaking grounds
Frequency - Frequency
Furious Seasons - My analog face
G
Peter Gabriel - Live blood
Will Galison - Line open
Jose Garcia - Songs for a lifetime
Jackson Garrett - Let sleeping dogs lie
Steve Gates - A bee in her mouth
Gazpacho - March of ghosts
Robin George & Vix - You
Jenny Gillespie - Belita
Grannies Club - Wait & see
Gone - Original motion picture soundtrack
Ash Gray and the Girls - Born in the summer
Nathan Griffin - Nathan Griffin
Pat Guadagno - New Jersey material
Katie Guthorn - Why not smile?
Guzzer - Who hit the guzzer
H
Habit - Lincoln has won
Lua Hadar with Twist - Like a bridge
Hard stuff - Bolex dementia
Hard stuff - Bulletproof
Sylvia Herold and the Rhythm Bugs - The spider and the fly
Harris Group - Choices
Gavin Harrison & Osric - The man who sold himself
Josh Harty - Nowhere
Jason Heath and the Greedy Souls - Packed for exile
Jon Herington - Time on my hands
Charlie Hill - The landing
Hillbily Vegas - Ringo manor
Homespun Remedies - Great depression
Penelope Houston - On market street
Russell Howard - Cityheart
Hully Blower - Hully dulls the blower
Huxter - #2
I
Illdotlogic - Dreams in stereo
Illness - A monument to our gilded age
I Melt With You - Original motion picture soundtrack
Inner Flame - A tribute to Rainer Ptacek
Insects of the Underground - Mind matter
Iron Lady - Music from the motion picture
Iveys - Days & nights
J
Jackity Jack Jack - Jackity all the way home
Brian James - The wild and free EP
Olivier Jarda - Good luck cartel
Jack Jeffery - The constant that remains
Karen Johns & Company - Peach
Justin Jude - 5 kinds of rain
Mike June - Exile on wilson street
K
Kaaa - A is for zebra
Bruce Kaphan Quartet - Bruce Kaphan Quartet
Ramin Karimloo - Human heart
Karney - Love and respect
Naama Kates - The unexamined life
Dave Keener - The easy way
Zonder Kennedy & The Scoville Junkies - Zonder Kennedy & The Scoville
Junkies
Art Kenyon - Art Kenyon
Kid Savant - Drop it on the stereo
Kevn Kinney - A good country mile
Koko Beware - Something about the summer
Susan Krebs Band - Everything must change
L
Richie Lawrence - Water
Andrew Leahey - & The Homestead
Leander Rising - Heart tamer
Josh Levinson Sextet - Chauncey street
Leslie Lewis - Midnight sun
Light - 1102/2011
Light the Black Skye - Looking out looking in
Jon Lindsay - Summer wilderness program
Little, Big - Pins and narwhals
Lola Versus - Original motion picture soundtrack
Longreef - Dirty motel
Loop 2.4.3 - American dreamland
Lost Lovers Brigade - Skeletons
Jessica Lynne - Spiritual cowgirl
M
Mad Planet - Ghost notes
Manooghi Hi - Silence
Lisa Marie - Summertime jazz
Christina Martin - Sleeping with a stranger
McCormick Percussion Group - Concerti for strings with
Memorials - Delirium
Giulia Millanta - Dust and desire
Mommyheads - Vulnerable boy
Money In The Banana Stand - Giant steps II
Monks of Mellonwah - Neurogenesis
Moonlight Social - Heading south
More Music From - The Rum Diary
Morning Set - Morning Set
Ken Will Morton - Contenders
Mr. Meaner - Drinking again
MSB Family Band - MSB Family Band record
Maria Muldaur - Christmas at the oasis: Live at the rrazz room
Putnam Murdock - Brand new widow
Dale Murray - Dream mountain dream
MW Ensemble - MW Ensemble
My Furious Frenzy - Venus on fire
N
Arthur Nasson - West cambridge cowboys
Nearly Beloved - Where's bob
Lukas Nelson - Wasted
Willie Nelson - Remember Me Vol. 1
Thea Neumann - Lady and the tramps
David Newberry - No one will remember you
Nfected - Karate style 2
Night Genes - Like the blood
Nobox - Hollywood is on fire
No End Of Now - Some music we made
O
Old Time Machine / Old Cabin - Split EP
Old Time Machine - Old Time Machine
Oliver Dawson Saxon - Motorbiker
Once: A New Musical - Original broadway cast recording
Oooooooo - Looooooo
Open Hand - Mark of the demon
Ryan David Orr - Mordred the quarter known
Our Lives - Out of place
P
Painted Blind - Painted Blind
Papa Juke - Out of the blues
Paranha 3DD - Original motion picture soundtrack
Pariah - Original motion picture soundtrack
Petunia & The Vipers - Petunia & The Vipers
Sal Piamonte - Lives in devil city
Piffaro - Los ministriles in the new world
Plastic Arts - Academy clonez
Vajra Pleroma - Vajra Pleroma
Poor Young Things - Let it sleep
Porter Draw - California widow
Pow Wow Now - Let's have a pow wow now
Doug Prescott - The journey and the deep blue sea
Projection - While you were out
Penny Jo Pullus - Through the glass
Pz - Pz 4 Pz
Q
R
Radio Fallout - Vox e tenebris
Rags & Ribbons - The glass masses
David Ralston - I don't care
Leandra Ramm - One night with you
Davide Ramos - Sento la tua mancanza
Ray Mann Three - Sketches vol. 1
Reach Around Rodeo Clowns - Dark days dark nights
Reanimation - Giants hide among us
Red Lights - Original motion picture soundtrack
Red Jasper - Sting in the tale
Red Moon Road - Red Moon Road
Red Wanting Blue - From the vanishing point
Kate Reid - The love I'm in
Marcus Reuter - Kopphenson
Riddle the Sphinx - Professional pretender
Donald Ridings - From the wild EP
Rivethead - Doomsday for optimism
Rockabye Baby! - Lullaby renditions of Depeche Mode
Rockabye Baby! - Lullaby renditions of the Red Hot Chili Peppers
Rockabye Baby! - Lullaby renditions of The Smiths
Rockdoves - From the birds
Riff Rockit - Riff Rockit
Jeff Root - Fossil rock
Walter Rose - Cast your stone
Alan Rosenthal - Just sayin'
Rubblebucket - Live in chicago
Rum Diary - Original motion picture soundtrack: Music by Christopher Young
Mike Ruocco - Too late
S
17 Pygmies - CIII: Even Celestina gets the blues
65's - Strike hard!
Sad Little Men - I'll be the octopus
Rachael Sage - Haunted by you
San Francisco Music Club - Love & freedom
Amy Saraiya & The Outcome - Soundproof box
Satin Chaps - Might i suggest
Satin Hearts - Living in overdrive
Eric Schackne - Hammers & strings
Seeking A Friend For The End Of The World - Original motion picture soundtrack
Kenny Selcer - Don't forget about me
Senayit - Of body
Sophia Serghi - Night of light
Sexy Accident - You're not alone
Sexy Accident - Ninja ninja fight darth vader
Nathan Shaffer - Come bcak america
Nick Simper / Nasty Habits - Live at Scene Vienna
Lorrie Singer & Bradley Kopp - A deep oasis
Andrew Sisk - Treelines
Shevy Smith - Ad astra
Maya Solovey - Forte
Sonali - Speechless
Sonolumina - Sonolumina
Charlene Soraia - Moonchild
Stanleys - Always
Starlings, TN - Heartache in 4/4 time
Steel Chops - Steel Chops
Stolen Rhodes - Falling off the edge
Stone Temple Pilots - Alive in the windy city
Suit of Lights - Shine on forever
Sunspot - The slingshot effect
Dan Susnara - Prison sanctuary open field...prison
Sweet Interference - The falling in and out
T
Lynn Taylor - Barfly
Gordie Tentrees - North country heart
Jesse Terry - Empty seat on a plane
Thieving Irons - Behold, this dreamer!
Kevin M. Thomas - Intensify
Tiger! Tiger! - Cut them where they bleed
Tohpati Bertiga - Riot
To Rome With Love - Original motion picture soundtrack
Total Babes - Swimming through sunlight
Transformers: Prime - Music from the animatd series
Tunnel Trees - Cuppa joe
Twin Trip - II
U
Ultra Sex Laser - Christmas!
Ultra Sex Laser - The lego EP
Ultra Sex Laser - Greatest hits
V
Naga Valli - Eastern soul
Various Artists - Communicating Vessels - 7-inch series Vol. 1
Various Artists - Sample this: Saustex 2012 sampler
Vassy - Beautiful day
Logan Venderlic - Logan Venderlic
Videoing - Reader LP
Video Love - Mon ange
Frank Viele - Acoustic vudu
Gordon Vincent - Mechanical breakdown
W
J. Walker - Ambitions of a writer
Nic Walker - Owls in the dump gift shop
Joanna Weinberg - The piano diaries
Whitelake - Enter the haggis
Why I Must Be Careful - Honeycomb
Bradley Wik and the Charlatans - Burn what you can, bury the rest...
Cole Williams - Out of the basement, out of the box
Chris Willis - Premium / Songs from the love ship v. 1
Jack Wilson - Jack Wilson
Wind Up Radio Sessions - Bird eyes
Wishes and Thieves - Forest fire EP
Tommy Womack - Now what!
Wrinkle Neck Mules - Apprentice to ghosts
Dustry Wright - If we never...
X
Y
YellowTieGuy - Joy in the mourning
Y La Bamba - Court the storm
Benjamin Yusupov's Viola Concerto - Tango rock concerto
Z
Gina Zavalis
Martin Zellar - The hardways
Zero The Antistar - The broken electric lullaby
Zeiton - Form
