October 2015 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews by
aka 
Stream "Zonolite"
Terry
Adams - Talk Thelonious (CD, Clang!,
Jazz)
Terry Adams is best known as a pianist and founding member of the
well-loved group NRBQ. On Talk Thelonious, Adams and his associates
pay homage to jazz legend Thelonious Monk. Adams has been a Monk
fan for decades and finally decided the time was right to record and release
some of his interpretations of the man's music to the public. The tracks
for this album were mainly taken from a live concert in Burlington, Vermont
in 2012. Also playing on these tracks are Scott Ligon, Pete Donnelly,
and Conrad Choucroun (the other members of NRBQ) along with Jim
Hoke, Klem Klimek, and Pete Toigo. These cuts effectively capture
the spirit of Monk but they're also injected with the musicians' own unique
personal style. It's no small feat successfully covering the music of Thelonious
Monk...but these fellows have succeeded on all levels. Over fifty minutes'
worth of captivating, inspired jazz. Tracks include "Reflections,"
"Hornin' In," "Think of One," and "Straight, No
Chaser."
A
Fragile Tomorrow - Make Me Over (CD,
MPress, Pop)
So many bands don't have a defined sound, style, or image. This band has
all three. A Fragile Tomorrow is a four piece band based in
Charleston, South Carolina that is bound to leave an impression on you.
The group is led by identical twin brothers Sean Kelly and Dominic
Kelly, both of whom are living with cerebral palsy. Rounding out the
band are Brendan Kelly (a third brother but not identical) and Shaun
Rhoades. The band's influences include David Bowie, T. Rex, Brian
Wilson, Cheap Trick, and The Who. But the overall sound of the
tracks on Make Me Over are much more current than these influences
might suggest. In addition to having a heavily stylized sound similar to
the artists they admire, the guys in this band are also rather stylish with
their clothes and overall appearance. Great songs, a strong image, and a
strong presence...all add up to a band that is impossible to ignore.
A Fragile Tomorrow songs are smart, reflective, melodic, and ultimately
very catchy. This is one of those rare cases where the folks in the band
are doing everything right. Top notch cuts include "Make Me Over (Noddy
Holder)," "In My Mind," "Can't You Hear Me?", and
"One Way Ticket (Coda)." Top pick.
Annabelle's
Curse - Worn Out Skin (Independently
released CD, Pop)
If memory serves us correctly, this is the first time we've covered a band
based in the unlikely city of Bristol, Tennessee. This five person group
writes and records what might best be described as progressive folk/bluegrass/pop
with a heavy emphasis on vocals and lyrics. The songs on Worn Out Skin
come across sounding exceedingly genuine and inspired. We get the feeling
listening to this that these five individuals really love what they're doing.
In the package we received there were no publicity photos...no mention of
the individuals' names in the group...and no photos on the album sleeve.
So obviously the emphasis is on the music rather than the musicians themselves.
Really nice smooth stuff that will stick with you. Cool resilient tracks
include "Lovedrunk Desperados," "Wolf In Sheep Clothes,"
and "Beneath the Clouded Moon."
Aquino - Giants Will Fall (Independently released CD, Pop)
Refreshingly genuine music from Bloomfield, New Jersey's Michael Aquino.
This is Aquino's debut album...and it's a keeper. Michael combines
elements from rock, folk, and Latin music to create a nice warm friendly
sound that should appeal to a wide range of folks. You won't hear any canned
sounds here or any trendy technology. And you won't see any peculiar imagery.
The tracks on Giants Will Fall were created with traditional instruments.
And they are presented simply without a lot of unnecessary fanfare and overdubs.
Aquino comes across like a normal guy making good solid music for fans who
are more concerned about music than other variables. In addition to making
music, Michael is also an actor and performs regularly in New Jersey and
New York. Thirteen intelligent cool tracks from this cool multi-talented
fellow. Nifty cuts include "New Year's Reprieve," "Robot
Joe," Before Long," and "1890."
Gilad
Atzmon & The Orient House Ensemble - The
Whistle Blower (CD, Moonjune,
Jazz)
Gilad Atzmon is one of those guys whose name might escape you...but
you've almost certainly heard him many times in the past if you have
even a casual interest in popular music. This guy has played with a wide
variety of well-known artists including Ian Dury, Robbie Williams, Sinead
O'Connor, Paul McCartney, Robert Wyatt, Pink Floyd...and more. Atzmon
is a multi-instrumentalist who is admirably skilled on the saxophone, clarinet,
and ethnic woodwind instruments. In 2000 he created The Orient House
Ensemble as a vehicle to re-define his own musical roots. The ensemble
includes Chris Higginbottom (drums), Yaron Stavi (bass), and
Frank Harrison (piano, electronics). The Whistle Blower is
impressively diverse. Rather than going for one sound or style, Gilad and
his associates let their music take them wherever it may. And, as a result,
the listener is treated to some pieces that are upbeat and aggressive while
others are more abstract and moody. If you're interested in British jazz,
this group is absolutely essential listening. Eight groovy cuts including
"Gaza Mon Amour," "The Song," "To Be Free,"
and "The Whistle Blower."
Everything and
Everyone is
Awful.
Edgar
Barroso - Immersion, Absorption, Connection
(Triple CD, Ravello,
Modern classical)
Edgar Barroso is a genius. Take a look at his web site (link above)
and you'll see why. This multi-talented man is operating in a world that
is light years beyond the scope and imagination of most people. On Immersion,
Absorption, Connection Barroso offers a wealth of modern classical compositions...divided
across three compact discs. Suffice to say, there's a lot of music
here to take in. And be forewarned, this is not for everyone. If
you're the type of listener who demands things like catchy lyrics, familiar
melodies, and repetitive rhythms this may be more confusing than entertaining.
And if you don't like the idea of sound presented as music, much of this
may frighten you away. But for those with an adventurous spirit and a willingness
to go where few listeners go, there's a wealth of super imaginative heady
material here that may very well blow your mind. Some of these compositions
remind us of experimental artists like John Cage and Frank Zappa...while
others seem to teeter off into their own unique territory. The key word
here is...experimentation. Barroso isn't making music that is familiar
and easy. His compositions are challenging and peculiar. And he's not afraid
to go off on some very strange tangents along the way. We particularly love
the packaging on this one. All three CDs fit inside one slim triple fold-cardboard
sleeve...which takes up less space than a traditional jewel case. A bizarre
and strangely beautiful musical experiment. Top pick.
Knowlton
Bourne - Songs From Motel 43 (CD, MISRA, Progressive pop)
After playing this album over and over and over...we finally decided
we can't figure out who the hell this guy sounds like. And that might
just be the biggest compliment we can offer here, because it's rare when
an artist doesn't remind us of someone else or some other band. And what
makes things even weirder...is that Songs From Motel 43 sounds very,
very familiar. Knowlton Bourne is a native of Mississippi
and his music seems to reflect his geographic location...but not in a standard
or predictable way. These songs incorporate basic sounds that most of us
know and love...but the music is also laced with some slight psychedelia
and unpredictable elements. The listener is continually treated to twists
and turns in the tunes as well as the arrangements, so things never get
boring. And then there's Knowlton's voice...which is totally groovy and
neat. He never oversings or forces himself, but instead just allows the
lyrics and melodies to come out naturally. This may not knock you out on
the first spin. But if you give Bourne's music a bit of time, you just might
find yourself falling in love with his unique style. Totally cool cuts include
"Summer Sun," "Hangin' Around," "Motel 43,"
and "Glow." Recommended. Top pick.
Joe
King Carrasco y Los Side FX - Chiliando
(CD, Avaconda, Rock)
Joe King Carrasco forever cemented his place in history decades ago
as one of the original artists on England's Stiff label. He became known
as the King of Tex-Mex rock and roll and has maintained the title ever since.
2015 finds Joe and his band sounding mighty fine and inspired. Chiliando
incorporates sounds and ideas from a variety of genres even though the songs
on this album are surprisingly straightforward. In fact, these tracks remind
us very much of mid-period Rolling Stones more than anyone else (?!).
Backing Carrasco on this album are Albert Besteiro on guitar, Vince
Mejia on drums, and Chuggy Hernandez on bass (plus some very
well chosen special guest artists). This nifty rockin' album presents twelve
rhythm driven cuts including "My Ding Dong Daddy (Don't Daddy No Mo),"
"Anytime You Need Me," "Chiliando!," and "Ain't
No Touch (Like Your Touch)."
Filiamotsa - Like It Is (CD, Aagoo,
Progressive/rock)
Intelligent harsh driving progressive rock. The folks in this band have
a sound that reminds us in many ways of classic 1970s artists like Howard
DeVoto, The Buzzcocks, Sex Pistols, and Joy Division. But these
songs are actually much more abstract that these comparisons might suggest.
Like It Is doesn't sound like other twenty-first century albums.
These tracks are hard, dense, and intense. And the vocals are particularly
focused and personalized. Guitars, violins, keyboards, and horns sometimes
combine to create a whirlwind classical effect. Filiamotsa is a band
with a definite overall sound and style. It's hard to classify this or put
it in one specific genre. What's interesting is how listenable these compositions
are. Seven perplexing cuts including "The Little Shop," "Sleepy
Tigers," and "Maybe." Bizarre and intense...and rather terrific
in so many ways... Recommended. Top pick.
Robert
Forster - Songs To Play (CD, Tapete, Pop)
It's been seven years since Robert Forster released his last solo
album. That critically acclaimed release (The Evangelist) came out
not long after the death of fellow Go-Betweens member Grant McLennan.
Forster put writing and recording on the back burner for the past few years
while he was working on other projects (he's a very, very busy guy
these days). Recorded in a studio on a mountain top in an analog studio,
Songs To Play is certain to please fans of the Go-Betweens and Robert's
solo recordings. The ten tracks on this album are very personal and have
a nice warm organic sound, with the central focus being on Forster's cool
voice and lyrics. At a point in time when most everyone is layering and
producing everything to pieces, Songs To Play is refreshing sparse
and simple. The open breezy arrangements are a perfect fit for these subtle,
smart pop compositions. This guy still has the magic that made his music
appeal to so many people years ago. Lovely tracks include "Learn To
Burn," "I'm So Happy For You," "Turn On The Rain,"
and "Disaster In Motion."
Holly
Golightly and the Brokeoffs - Coulda Shoulda
Woulda (CD, Transdreamer, Pop)
If seems like every time we turn around there's a new Holly Golightly
album popping up somewhere. She's been making music for a quarter of a century
now and in that time has released no less than 35 (?!!) albums. And the
amazing part is that--at least from what we've heard--they're all
rather credible, cool, and entertaining. The consistency of the musical
output is probably due to the fact that Golghtly and her associates seem
to just love making music. You can hear this in every note and every lyric
and every beat. Labeling this music as pop is a bit misleading because the
actual sound veers in and out of a variety of genres. But whatever sound
or style Holly and her band present, they always manage to succeed. It's
no wonder this talented lady has developed such a loyal and devoted fan
base around the world. Coulda Shoulda Woulda is full of absolutely
charming toe-tappers that should appeal to a wide range of music fans, young
and old alike. These tracks are a pure feelgood experience...and a welcome
vacation from the realities of everyday life. Twelve kickass cuts including
"Heavy Buy and Buy," "The Devil's Flower," "What
He Does," and "Christmas Is A Lie."
Masatora
Goya - Dream of Sailing (CD, Ravello, Classical)
Beautiful...soft...flowing...and gentle. If you're in the mood for a relaxing
experience you'll be delightfully rewarded with Dream of Sailing.
Inspired by the life and passing of his father Masahiro Goya (1932-2011),
this album presents pieces by composer Masatora Goya. These recordings
are very simple and sparse, utilizing only one, two, or three instruments
per track. The feeling we get listening to this is the same feeling we get
when we listen to the sounds of the forest. This music is soft and organic...and
very personal. The album is divided into six sections: "Distance,"
"Dream of Sailing," "Inner Voice," "Where It Begins,
Where It All Ends," "Sound of Life," and "Sunset on
the Hudson." Unassuming, reserved, and ultimately inspired music with
heart.
The Homesman - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Marco Beltrami (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
Yet another resilient soundtrack created by Marco Beltrami. Beltrami
first came to the attention of most folks as the creator of the music for
the Wes Craven movie Scream. Since that time he has created
an impressive body of work and has become one of the most in-demand composers
of music for film. The Homesman is a story of travel on the American
frontier. And it marks the third time that Beltrami has worked with director
Tommy Lee Jones. What we find most interesting here is that this
music is overall rather strange. It sounds nothing like what you would think
a soundtrack about traveling the country in a covered wagon would sound
like (!). But our guess is the music is probably what makes this film interesting
and suspenseful. This album contains music that is soothing, heady, sometimes
surreal, and sometimes foreboding. It's an interesting mix of sounds, styles,
and moods. And, as you might guess (since it's on the Varese Sarabande label),
the sound quality is impeccable. Twenty-one cool reflective cuts
including "The Homesman Main Title," "I'll Be Back Directly,"
and "Onto The Ferry." Some truly beautiful stuff here mixed with
some segments that are peculiar and unusual.
Husky
Rescue - The Long Lost Friend [Special Edition]
(Double CD, Catskills,
Progressive pop)
This is a far cry from the dull predictable modern pop that most music fans
seem to crave in 2015. This double album set features music that is driven
more by a desire to create than a desire for fame and fortune. Husky
Rescue is the band/project created by a fellow named Marko Nyberg
who takes a more fluid approach to music than most. This double disc set
presents a lot of imaginative stuff for those interesting in taking
the trip. The first disc presents tracks from the album Long Lost Friend
that was originally released on Nyberg's El Camino label. But this time
around tracks from some 7-inch releases have also been added. The second
disc presents more current recordings Nyberg made with composer Antony
Bentley and vocalist Johanna Kalen that originally accompanied
a New York exhibition by designer Kustaa Saaksi. This is artsy stuff
to be certain. The tracks on these albums are more like audio art than pop
music, although some of the tracks are surprisingly accessible. Unlike standard
pop albums, you never quite know what you're going to hear from one track
to the next. Lovely provocative stuff that is genuinely different and uniquely
inspired. Recommended.
People don't
Know no
Better.
Krisp - Sonic Monarch (Independently released CD, Pop)
If you love the sound of alternative pop/dance bands from the 1980s, there's
an excellent possibility you will fall in love with the sounds on Sonic
Monarch. Based in Miami, Florida, Krisp is a band that doesn't
sound like other bands from that state. These folks write and record ultimately
satisfying dance pop cuts that are simply addictive. The rhythms practically
demand movement...and the bass lines are way, way, way beyond
what we normally hear in pop music. The eight tracks on this album remind
us in many ways of classic bands like New Order and The Thompson
Twins. If you want a pure feelgood experience, look no further. Groovy
cuts include "Franz," "Riverside Strangler," "Dust,"
and "Once."
The Legends - It's Love (CD, Labrador,
Pop)
Johan Angergard is one busy man driven to create and inspire. As
the leader of the intriguing Swedish Labrador label, he is also a member
of the way cool bands Club 8 and Acid House Kings. As if that
weren't enough, he has yet another alter-ego band called The Legends
that began back in 2003. The idea was just to write and record whatever
he wanted without any regard for continuity or creating an identifiable
sound. As a result, Legends albums vary greatly from one to the next. At
several points along the way Angergard felt that the project had ended.
But each time a situation provided the necessary fuel for invention and
the band lived on. It's been several years since the last album from The
Legends. Angergard went through some recent changes in his life...he turned
40 and a long time relationship ended. Having done most everything any musician
could dream of (being in three cool bands...running his own label...),
he began to take stock of where he stood in life. About the same time he
fell in love again. To put everything into perspective (and to music), he
created It's Love...a beautifully understated pop album full of subtle
moody tracks. These dreamy compositions are very personal and somewhat delicate...seemingly
inspired by a sincere need to create. We've always loved this guy's music
and the artists on his label so...it's no surprise that we love this one
as well. Nine well-crafted cuts including "Keep Him," "Love
You," "All About Us," and "The Embrace." Top pick.
Long
Distance Runners - Elements (Independently
released CD, Progressive pop)
The third full-length release from the St. John's, Newfoundland-based band
Long Distance Runners. This six person band has a thick progressive
sound that is heady and slightly trippy. On their web site the band lists
influences like David Bowie, The Velvet Underground, Johnny Cash,
and The Rolling Stones. But the overall sound of Long Distance Runners
is actually more abstract and fluid...and sometimes more poppy...than any
of these comparisons might suggest. We hear a lot of bands from Canada these
days, but this one stands out from the pack because their sound is different
and more varied. These six musicians seem to be doing just about everything
right. Their music sounds very pure. They don't overplay and oversing...the
nuances of the songs are subtle yet striking. The songs are smart and memorable
and the lyrics are intelligent. And we love the cool understated vocals
(and cool harmonies). In addition to the groovy music, Long Distance Runners
also came up with a really cool cover idea. There's a transparent sheet
inside the sleeve. When you move it across the four abstract shapes on the
front cover, the shapes start moving...really COOL. Nifty compositions include
"The One," "You Gotta Remind Me," "Rust Before
We Shine, and "Walk Straight."
McCormick
Percussion Group - Plot: Music For Unspecified
Instrumentation (Double CD, Ravello,
Modern classical)
Mighty strange stuff here, even by our peculiar standards. We certainly
admire folks making music like this not only because of the creativity involved...but
also because the musicians obviously know they are playing to a very
select and specific audience. You can be certain that you won't find any
mainstream music here. This double disc set presents compositions that are
far outside the norm. The musicians are much more concerned with setting
a mood than creating hummable passages. Director Robert McCormick
is a Professor of Music at the University of South Florida in Tampa. He
and his Percussion Group have now recorded over two dozen (!) albums and
they're still going strong. Plot: Music For Unspecified Instrumentation
is yet another strangely satisfying album full of unpredictable compositions.
It's difficult describing what this music sounds like because there aren't
any easy and obvious comparisons. We can probably sum things up best by
saying...disc number one is strange...but disc number two is much stranger.
The album is dedicated to Stuart Saunders Smith who composed the
lead track ("Bones") and closer ("Winter") and also
plays on Earle Brown's "December 1952." The album also
features works by composers Robert Erickson, Johanna Magdalena Beyer,
James Tenney, and Herbert Brun. Puzzling and ultimately brilliant,
this is yet another stellar addition to the musical catalog offered by the
always entertaining McCormick Percussion Group. Top pick.
Mipso - Old Time Reverie (CD, Robust,
Folky pop)
This is the second full-length release from this North Carolina-based quartet.
The band's 2013 debut (Dark Holler Pop) surprised a lot of folks
when it reached the #8 position on Billboard's Bluegrass chart. Since that
time, the folks in Mipso have become a touring monster...playing
up to 200 live shows a year (!). The band began as the trio of Jacob
Sharp (mandolin), Joseph Terrell (guitar), and Wood Robinson
(bass)...but with the addition of vocalist Libby Rodenbough they
are now a quartet. The songs on Old Time Reverie sound something
like an updated Crosby, Stills & Nash threaded with traces of
bluegrass and country. The thing that stands out most about Mipso are the
vocals. Man oh man can these folks harmonize with each other. Their
voices merge perfectly on these highly melodic tracks that are laced with
intricate stringed instruments. We like the fact that the folks in this
band embrace being from the Southeast, as this part of the country has evolved
so much over the past several decades. You can bet your very best booties
that Old Time Reverie will be warmly embraced. These smooth friendly
tracks provide exactly what many listeners want in 2015. This listener-friendly
album includes "Marianne," "Father's House," "Stranger,"
and "Everyone Knows."
Fabio Mittino & Bert Lams - Long
Ago (Independently released CD, Guitar/instrumental)
Talk about eclectic. On this album, ultra supreme guitarists Fabio
Mittino and Bert Lams teamed up and recorded seventeen instrumentals
written between 1918 and 1927 by Gurdjeff and De Hartmann.
The results...are exotic, intoxicating, and exceedingly resilient. Tasteful
doesn't even begin to describe the wonderfully precise sounds created by
these two musicians. Lams was first introduced to Mittino by Robert Fripp
back in 1998. The two used Gibson arch top guitars from the 1930s to record
these tracks, which may explain why these songs have such an authentic sound.
Considering the fact that this album presents American songs, Hindu melodies,
Kurdish melodies, an Orthodox Hymn, and Sayyid dances...these tracks are
surprisingly smooth and familiar sounding. This is, quite simply, one of
the best guitar instrumental albums we've heard. The playing is precise
and inspired...and the material is unusually refreshing. Seventeen tracks
that will make you fall in love with the guitar all over again. Highly recommended.
TOP PICK.
Mr. Turner - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Gary Yershon (CD, Varese Sarabande, Soundtrack)
Mr. Turner is a film that explores the last quarter century of the
life of British painter J.M.W. Turner who lived from 1775 to 1851.
Turner was a controversial artist and individual who folks seemed to both
love and hate. Initial reviews of this movie are extremely positive...so
this might be one to put on your list of "must sees." The music
for Mr. Turner was composed by Britain's Gary Yershon who
worked closely with director Mike Leigh to come up with sounds that
would perfectly tie in with the film. The two originally worked together
on the 1999 film Topsy Turvy. The first twenty-one tracks on this
album are classical instrumental pieces from Mr. Turner that will
surely pull listeners and viewers into the world of nineteenth-century England.
These tracks have a wonderful rich sound and they're much more calm and
reflective than what one normally hears in a 2015 soundtrack album. A huge
bonus here is that this album also features eight compositions from the
2012 short film A Running Jump (another project that brought together
the talents of Yershon and Leigh). We can't help but think that Yershon's
music for Mr. Turner will end up being one of the peaks in his career.
Anthony
Neff & The Nearly Distants - Blood Beneath
the Sun (CD, Porch Glow, Pop)
This is one of those cool things out there that makes us really glad we're
in the loop. Even though this is an excellent album full of intelligent
songs, there's a good chance that Blood Beneath the Sun will pass
beneath the radar. Why? Simply because (a) there's way too much music out
there, (b) it isn't being released on an ultra-cool label (it's an independent
release), and (c) there are no celebrity guest appearances. We hope this
album receives the recognition it deserves, because Anthony Neff
is one super talented and smart fellow. His voice is what impresses us most.
This guy's vocals sound something like a cross between Donovan Leitch
and Bryan Ferry. And, interestingly, the songs also have some similarities
to these two artists. Recorded in Durham, North Carolina with The Nearly
Distants providing backup, this album is immediately familiar and instantly
gripping. On the first spin we really liked this. By the fourth or fifth
spin, well...we found that ourselves totally in love. Killer tracks
include "Scene of the Crime," "In The Night," "Hey
Little Lion," and "Under A Tuscan Moon." Top pick.
There are no
Solutions.It is better
To endlessly swim around
In a pool of confusion
Than find solutions
For your
Problems.
Samuel Pellman - Selected Galaxies (CD, Ravello,
Electronic)
Cool flowing spacey electronic music from Samuel Pellman. The first
few times we heard Selected Galaxies we kept thinking this reminded
us of someone, but we couldn't put our finger on it. Then it hit us...this
album reminds us very much of some of the wonderfully exotic (but obscure)
electronic albums released by Wendy (aka Walter) Carlos
back in the 1970s and 1980s. Unlike a lot of electronic albums, Galaxies
does not have a canned technology-based sound. Pellman uses sounds that
are warm and inviting rather than stark and cold. As a result, his sonic
landscapes tend to envelop you rather than scare you away. This album features
four compositions: "Peculiar Galaxies" (presented in four sections),
"Spiral Galaxies" (presented in three sections), "Elliptical
Galaxies," and "Selected Cosmos." Each composition has its
own sound and style, more or less. Taken as a whole, this album will make
you feel very much as if you are floating in outer space. Although we're
not quite sure how we could make such a statement, seeing as how we've never
ever actually been in outer space. Lovely stuff that tends to wrap
the listener in a blanket of groovy sound.
Brian
Ritchey - Bordeaux (CD, Barrelmaker,
Americana/pop)
Nashville, Tennessee's Brian Ritchey plays a smooth familiar sounding
brand of Americana pop that is very popular in 2015. His songs recall classic
artists from the past like Neil Young, Gram Parsons, and Nick
Drake. Bordeaux is Ritchey's latest album and the first to be
released on his newly formed Barrelmaker label. Brian's last release featured
louder more rocking tunes, but on this album he chose to present slightly
more subdued moody compositions. Smart move, because the tracks on Bordeaux
come off sounding inspired, genuine, and very personal. Ritchey's lyrics
and overall presence are what separate him from all the other Americana/pop
artists out there. These smooth intricate tracks feature groovy guitars,
wonderfully moody pedal steel guitar, and Brian's cool deep voice. When
this guy sings you actually feel as though he is talking to you. This one
will no doubt be a favorite among folks in the Americana scene across the
globe. Nifty cuts include "Hello Lonely Friends," "We're
Just Wrong," "I'm Not Gone," "Rest My Head," and
"This Old House."
It is better
To die
Than roll over and
Try.
Tokyo
Rosenthal - Afterlife (CD, Rock & Socks, Americana/pop)
Tokyo Rosenthal is one of those cool underground folks out there
who simply makes good music. There are no gimmicks, no trendy ideas or sounds,
no attempts at having an image, etc. Nope, none of the usual things. Rosenthal
seems content to simply write good solid songs and present them using only
the most essential ingredients. It's no wonder he's won over so many fans
over the past few years. Even though he hasn't hit the big time yet, he's
a big success with his fans and with writers. He's received ultra-positive
reviews in some very notable places, and they're all well-deserved. Afterlife
is yet another strong addition to Tokyo's continually growing catalog. The
album features songs that incorporate sounds and ideas from pop, rock, folk,
and Americana. And they're all delivered with undeniable style and conviction.
Rosenthal writes songs that can be appreciated by just about anyone. They
have a nice familiar sound and feature cool memorable melodies and insightful
lyrics. Ten cool compositions including "The Bunk House," "Back
Stage Hotel," and "What Would Have Happened?"
Brad San Martin - Tell Someone (CD-R, Jigsaw,
Pop)
The first solo album from Brad San Martin who is, up to this point
in time, best known as a member of the band One Happy Island who
released several albums on overseas abels over the course of the past few
years. Tell Someone is like a blast from the past. Some of you will
remember way back in the early 1980s when there was a short-lived phenomenon
called cassette artists...underground musicians who took recording into
their own hands, recording and reproducing music in their homes way, way,
way before the age of digital recording. This album effectively captures
the overall sound and idea of recordings from that point in time. What made
some of the cassette artists so engaging was their pure sincerity and innocence...and
the fact that the songs were so personal. That same sincerity and innocence
can be found in the music created by Brad. Recorded in an attic with an
old four track reel-to-reel recorder and a "battered digital eight
track"...San Martin recorded these tracks himself using "No
Pro Tools!" If there is one word that effectively sums up the overall
sound here that word would be...understated. These songs sound very
much like a real person playing and singing. No tweaking to perfection and
no multiple layers of sound. These songs are presented using only the essentials
and the overall sound is wonderfully sparse. The more we spin this the better
it sounds. Nifty heartfelt songs include "Saved By An Idea," "Art
Once," "Self Saver," and "Lite Shines." This one
doesn't sound like all the rest... Top pick.
SPC
ECO - Dark Matter (CD, Saint
Marie, Electronic/pop)
Like low, low, low, deep, deep, deep bass notes that you can
FEEL...? If so, you're likely to totally groove on the tripped out
sounds created by SPC ECO (pronounced "Space Echo"). The
folks in this band write and record spacey electronic pop that sometimes
reminds us of The Cocteau Twins...without ever sounding all that
similar. The tracks on Dark Matter remind us of the ultra-cool phase
of music in the 1990s when it seemed as if a new Trance pop band popped
up every five seconds. SPC ECO was created by Dean Garcia who most
folks know as a member of the band Curve. Vocalist Rose Berlin
has a voice that seems tailor made for this style of music. This album is
all about grooves and moods...and it creates plenty of both. Ten
wonderful cuts here including "Creep In The Shadows," "Playing
Games," "Meteor," and "Under My Skin." Really clever
artwork on this one. Totally groovy stuff.
State
Shirt - Lost Hills (CD, LFA,
Progressive pop)
Truly imaginative music that comes from a different perspective. We've enjoyed
stuff created by State Shirt in the past...but this time this guy
has really outdone himself. This is, quite simply, the best State Shirt
release yet. To sum this one up in a few words...Lost Hills
completely and effectively combines classic pop with modern electronics.
The merging of the two presents a fantastic audio world where unique cool
sounds collide with wonderfully familiar vocal melodies. We haven't heard
anything that sounds quite like this. Such descriptions might lead you to
believe that these tracks are artsy or strange, but instead the exact opposite
is true. These songs are incredibly listener-friendly. They push the limits
just far enough that you're struck with new sounds and ideas all the while
enjoying music the way you normally do. State Shirt is the one man band
created by Ethan Tufts, a fellow who is obviously creating his own
rules and ideas on how to make, market, and sell his creations. If you like
the music, check out this guy's web site...and you'll be even more impressed
with the man making the music. Tufts is doing everything right. He writes
great songs. His arrangements are perfect. He has an incredible voice. And
the way he markets himself is the best. Instead of a download card
in the package we received, the download information was printed on a packet
of seeds. This is an easy and OBVIOUS Top Pick this month. Highly recommended
music from a truly creative mind and unique spirit. This stuff is just...the
BEST.
Stone The Crows - Teenage Licks / Ontinuous Performance (Double CD, Angel Air, Rock/pop)
Yet another double disc reissue of albums from Great Britain's Stone
The Crows. Although virtually unknown in the United States, this band
was very popular in Great Britain in the 1970s. Stone The Crows was comprised
of Maggie Bell (who followed with a very successful solo career),
Colin Allen, Les Harvey, Ronnie Leahy, Steve Thompson, and Jimmy
McCulloch. These folks played an aggressive brand of bluesy rock that
was very popular at the time and the main focus was on Bell's raspy voice
(she was often compared to Janis Joplin). This double CD set features
all the original tracks from the albums Teenage Licks and
Ontinuous Performance...plus four additional live bonus tracks. Guitarist
Les Harvey died during the recording of Ontinuous Performance and
was replaced by McCulloch. But the band never really recovered from the
loss and eventually abandoned ship. Because the popularity of Stone The
Crows was somewhat geographically limited at the time, this reissue will
hopefully make a whole new legion of fans aware of the band. There's a lot
to sink your teeth into here. Twenty tracks in all including "Don't
Think Twice," "Seven Lakes," "Let It Down," "On
The Highway," "Sunset Cowboy," and "Good Time Girl."
Supersuckers - Holdin' The Bag (Advance CD, Acetate,
Pop)
Longtime fan favorites Supersuckers are back. This time there's a
bittersweet story. The good news is that the band has another solid album
out. The sad news...is that lead singer Eddie Spaghetti has recently
been diagnosed with Stage 3 throat cancer. The band has been around for
a quarter of a century and has released more than twenty albums during that
time. They've developed a seriously devoted fan base during all these years
and they show no signs of letting up at this late stage of the game. Holdin'
The Bag finds the band in fine form, continuing to provide the soulful
country-tinged barroom rock they're known for. The basics of the songs are
provided by Spaghetti's driving bass lines, Marty Chandler's tasteful
guitars, and Chris Von Steicher's steady beats. The band managed
to blaze their way through the 1990s right on through to the twenty-first
century. And during all that time they've always managed to offer good solid
tunes for their fans. Twelve feelgood rockin' cuts here including "This
Life...With You," "Man On A Mission," "That's How It
Gets Done," and "All My Rowdy Friends (Have Settled Down)."
Tacachale
Chamber Orchestra - Ocean Floor Funeral
(CD, Cuscowilla Conservatory,
Progressive pop)
Well now here's a band with a different overall sound and style...particularly
when you consider the fact that they're based in Florida (?!!). Imagine
crossing the music of Harper's Bizarre with The Beach Boys.
Then throw in a tiny hint of bluegrass and a whole lot of progressive creativity...and
you might end up with the Tacachale Chamber Orchestra. This short
album clocks in at just over thirty minutes. But in that amount of time
these folks provide a wealth of imagination and pure creativity. We particularly
love the vocals on this one...super smooth and the harmonies are fantastic.
Cool creative cuts include "Wish You Were Him," "What's Your
Home?", "Don't Wake Up," and "Cold Winter." The
album features vocal tracks as well as instrumental versions. Very unusual
stuff and exceedingly well executed. Top pick.
Thrushes - Exposing Seas (CD, New
Granada, Pop/rock)
The folks in the band Thrushes play dense shoegazer-esque pop in
the vein of 1990s drone bands and 1980s 4AD bands. The band formed in 2005
and released two well-received discs in 2007 (Sun Come Undone) and
2010 (Night Falls). Now comes Exposing Seas...another dense
and hypnotic journey into the world of underground rock. Produced by J.
Robbins (who has worked with artists like Jawbox and Burning
Airlines), this album has a great big sound propelled by focused rhythms
and driving bass lines. Add in ethereal distorted guitars and cool distanced
vocals...and you have an underground sound that is gripping and inventive.
The band is comprised of Anna Conner (vocals, guitar), Casey Harvey
(guitar), Rachel Harvey (bass), and Scott Tiemann (drums).
Eight rockin' cuts.
Twink - Dust Bunny (CD-R/Vinyl LP, Disques de Lapin, Toytronica)
Twink is, without a doubt, one of the coolest musical bands/projects
ever created. While the overall idea of the band remains constant (creating
music using toy pianos and other toy instruments)...over time Twink has
evolved and become it's own unique form of art. If you think the idea of
making music with toys would wear thin and become samey, think again. Mike
Langlie (the man who is Twink) continues to challenge himself
and his listeners by continually spinning new takes on his basic idea and
slowly but surely expanding the ways that toys can be used to create music
that can be appreciated by just about anyone. Dust Bunny is yet another
wildly successful endeavor and this time around the results are even more
heady and progressive than normal. If we had to sum up this album in a single
word, that word would be...magical. Langlie has even created his
own word to describe his genre...Toytronica. That said, he has effectively
catapulted himself into being the Brian Eno of Toytronica. Looking
into the future, we could easily see the two artists working together at
some point. Now wouldn't that be interesting...? Even though this
is not music box music, the songs on this album are likely to give you the
same feeling you might have while listening to a music box (with some
interesting mental tweaks and unusual swerves, of course). We should
also mention that Dust Bunny is the first Twink album to be released
on vinyl. And what a work of art this one is. Featuring magnificent cover
artwork courtesy of Kate O'Hara (a truly fantastic image
of a bunny with a mirror image of itself as a skeleton...wild and weird
stuff...), the album itself is pressed on colored vinyl and looks like
toy spin art. And each one is unique, no two look exactly the same. Only
300 (?!!) copies are being made available so if you want one you'd better
act fast. The attention to detail here (the music, the artwork, the overall
concept) is remarkable in so many ways. Twink is one of our all-time top
favorite artists ever. Few folks have refined their idea to the extent
that this man has. Hats off again to Mike Langlie for being both entertaining
and exceedingly thought provoking and unique. Highly recommended..
TOP PICK.
The
Universal Thump - Walking The Cat: The Abbey
Road EP (Independently released CD EP, Progressive pop)
Our first reaction to this disc was, "Wow...what a great big, warm,
open sound!" Our second reaction was that the name seemed odd (The
Abbey Road EP?). But when we read the accompanying press release, everything
suddenly became clear. The songs for this EP were recorded at the famous
Abbey Road Studios in London, England and were funded by a Kickstarter campaign.
Which just goes to show devoted and faithful fans are of The Universal
Thump. The band is the duo of singer/songwriter/producer Greta Gertier
Gold and producer/drummer Adam D. Gold...along with whatever
artists they choose to be playing with at the moment. We rarely review EPs,
and only when they offer something substantial. The Golds have really outdone
themselves here. These five tracks are smart, imaginative, unpredictable,
and ultimately very, very listener friendly. These tracks will stand the
test of time...you can bet your booties that they'll still sound
great decades from now. They have a wonderfully cool classic sound and the
songs themselves are nothing short of spectacular. Five super satisfying
tracks here including "Sunset Park," "Watch the Sunrise,"
and "Walking the Cat." We can't wait for these folks' next
full-length release. Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Mark
Van Hoen - Nightvision (CD, Saint Marie, Electronic)
Mark Van Hoen has been active for a very long time. He began his
career in electronic music way back in 1981. Nightvision is a really
cool moody album full of tasteful electronic sounds. The album is divided
into ten tracks that flow seamlessly from one to the next. Van Hoen doesn't
create music with sounds that will become dated. His compositions incorporate
warm organic sounds that don't have a canned or trendy vibe. Unlike many
electronic albums, Nightvision is for the most part surprisingly
subtle and calming. And instead of being layered to death, these cuts use
only the essential ingredients necessary in order to create the appropriate
sound or mood. Mark is originally from England but now lives in Los Angeles,
California. He's worked with some impressive underground icons over the
past few years and continues to be a major contributor in the world of electronic
music. Groovy tracks include "All For You," "Bring It Back,"
and "Sensing The Close."
The
Wonder Revolution - The Magic World
(CD, Air House, Progressive
pop)
Sometimes some of the most amazing music comes from some of the most surprising
places. If you like dreamy, mesmerizing pop...it just doesn't get much better
than this. The Wonder Revolution is a music/art collective
based in Wichita, Kansas that is spearheaded by David Lord (Francis
Moss)..."the constant unifying force, serving as a sort of curator
for the collective." This is the sixth release from the band and
it continues on the path that previous releases set forth. Even though Lord
(Moss) is based in Kansas, contributing musicians live in other areas of
the United States and even overseas. The Magic World is a wonderfully
satisfying collection of uniquely conceived modern pop creations that are
purely driven by creativity. The album presents no less than twenty (!)
tracks, and they're all totally warm and groovy. We've loved everything
we've heard to date from The Wonder Revolution. And we're pleased to report
that The Magic World just might be their best yet. The cuts on this
album are super intelligent, ultimately cool and dreamy, and they have wonderfully
magnetic reflective qualities that hold up spin after spin after spin.
We just can't get enough of fantastic tracks like "Tearlandia,"
"Green Sea," "Budapest River," "Gnomeland,"
and "Fifi's World." Highly recommended. TOP PICK.
Woolfner come
To take.
Woolfner mean
To kill.
Woolfner want
To harm.
Boofner weedle
Skeel.
Stephen
Young & The Union - Eagle Fort Rumble
(CD, Ragged Company Recordings, Americana/pop/rock
It seems peculiar that more and more Americana bands are popping up in other
countries around the world. But confusing or not, they're becoming more
and more common as time goes by. Dublin, Ireland-based band Stephen Young
& The Union write and record Americana pop with just a few threads
of Ireland venturing into the mix. Recorded in a log cabin in rural Ireland,
this must have been an intense time for the band because it resulted in
one member leaving. Eagle Fort Rumble is apparently more of a band-driven
album that the debut (Wilderness Machine). After spinning this one
a few times, our guess is that folks in Ireland and the United States
and beyond are going to get a major charge out of this one. Eleven solid
cuts including "Shiver," "Lately I've Rescued A Rose,"
"Shadowman," and "Teardrops."
A
Aa's OK - OK's Aa
Concettta Abbate - Falling in time
Lee Actor - Piano concerto
James Adler - Introspections
Alarm Clock Conspiracy
Alchemilla - Hearts
All Walls - All Walls
AmaamA - Prirbanolly
Amarachi - All or nothing
Amplifires - Llife's a gamble
An American In Paris - Original Broadway cast recording
A Projection / Exit - Proj 1 rec Stockholm
Arjun - Core
As Soapy As Drippy Lolly - Pranick in kneejerk
Autopilot - Desert dreams
Aylin - Cloud
Azumpy - Plaza rowl
B
Bruce Babcock - Time, still
Bad Is Bad Is Okay - Nick nacks
Patricia Bahia - Save your heart
Bekah Barnett - Rise
Jeremy Bass - New York in spring
David Berkeley - Cardboard coat
Brent Best - Your dog, champ
BeThisBell - Work it out
Blindness - Wrapped in plastic
Blind Willies - Every day is judgment day
Crystal Bright & The Silver Hands - Crystal Bright & The Silver
Hands
Emilyn Brodsky - Eats her feelings
Dewa Budjana - Hasta karma
Mary Bue - Holy bones
Bum For Bum - Loudy wow
Doug Burr - Pale white dove
Butter Not Better - Bathing in better butter
By The Red - Folk songs from the Red River Valley
C
Camp Camp Camp - Damp damp damp
The Canal - Original score by Ceiri Torjussen
Leah Capelle - Leah Capelle
Carry Illinois - Alabaster
Benjamin Cartel - Gothenburg
Sergio Cervetti - Transits: Minimal to mayhem
Tom Chapin - 70
Jon Chi - Another rising sun
Child 44 - Original motion picture soundtrack
Chuck - Original television soundtrack
City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra - Music fro the Star Wars saga
Climax Blues - Broke heart blues
Coastal - Beneath the snow and streetlights
Cobbler - Original motion picture soundtrack
Phil Cody - Cody sings Zevon
Colorway - THe black sky sequined
John Conlee - Classics 2
Cracker Factory - Chasing ghosts
Cody Crump - Death
Crzie - Blaffter
CSDT - Mobo tumbie
Cusses - Here comes the rat
CZZD - Kuddly zoop
D
D Train - Original motion picture soundtrack
Nicholas David - Make hope
Dandelion War - Opposite shores
Karl W. Davis & The Sweetpeas - It's high time
Dawa - Psithurlsma
Dawn Patrol - Original motion picture soundtrack
Death - Death
Debug - Original motion picture soundtrack
Deckchair Poets - Searchin' for a lemon squeezer
Reina del Cid - The cooling
Desert Dancer - Original motion picture soundtrack
Doctor Who - The day of the doctor
Donna Deussen & The Paul Weitz Trio - On the street where you live
Andrew Diruzza Quintet - Shapes and analogies
Double Naught Spy Car Stew - Panorama city
Gary Douglas - Keepin' faithß
Dovekeepers - Original television soundtrack
Dust on the Radio - Halfway to the stars
Dying to be Dingy - Buffs and nuffies
E
EAEAI - Lambs and shrimps
East Cameron Folkcore - Kingdom of fear
Eat the Eaters - Bleat the bleaters
Elasticity - Elasticity
Elements Rising - Modern works for chamber ensemble
Tawny Ellis - Ghosts of the low country: The muscle shoals sessions
Empty Bimpty Nimpty Noo - Razzy
Enter and Enter - Exitence and exits
Exovex - Radio silence
Ezziersetthendumm - Mouse prize
F
Far From the Madding Crowd - Original motion picture soundtrack
Farmer Jason - Christmas on the farm with Farmer Jason
Feenie Meener - Daffter
Fernando - The dogs
Jamila Ford - The deep end
Guy Forsythe Blues Band - The pleaser
Red Ray Frazier - Blood in the water
Friend Roulette - I see you, your eyes are red
Fumes From Fuma - Daddy's squirrel
Furious Seasons - My love is strong
G
Lee Gallagher and the Hallelujah - Lee Gallagher and the Hallelujah
Rachel Garlin - Wink at july
Get Ahead - Volcano
Susie Glaze - Not that kind of girl
Emily Gold - Recluse
Golden Eels - Periscopes in the air
Good Field - Future me
Good + Kill - Original motion picture soundtrack
Joe Goodkin - Record of life
Go Time! - Ratsel
Grahams - Glory bound/rattle the rocks
Great Human Odyssey - Original television soundtrack
Great Spirit - Front porch to frontier
Maxwell Gualtieri - For Los Angeles
Gypsy Lumberjacks - Giants of America
H
Hildegard - Hildegard
Hobo Nephews of Uncle Frank - American shuffle
Cody Joe Hodges - The good stuff
Honey Barbara - Wave grass
Tim Houlihan - Anthems
Andrew D. Huber - Mercury gets a moon
Tod Hughes Project - Changing gears
Stephen Hunley - The other side of never
Jordan Hurwitz - Here I'll stand
Bobby Hustle - It's the hustle
I
Indian Summers - Original television soundtrack
Infinitely Polar Bear - Original motion picture soundtrack
In Sonitus Lux - The equinox session
Interview - Original motion picture score
J
Lucas Jack - Before i forget
Jack Kerowax - Jack Kerowax
Jacob and the Good People - Rotten
PI Jacobs - Hi-rise ranch
Heidi Jacob - Beneath winter light
Ethan Jano - I'll be fine
Suzanne Jarvie - Spiral road
Mary Ann Joyce-Walter - Immortal diamond
Thomas Juneau - Visions eternal
K
Matthew K. - Matthew K.
Mikaela Kahn - Milk & honey
Stephen Kalinch / Jon Tiven - Each soul has a voice
Kelly's Lot - Don't give my blues away
Robert Kennedy Trio - Big shoes
Knack - Zoom
Kuu Kuu - Lawsy messy and messier lassies
L
Landmarq - Roadskill: Live in the Netherlands
Matt Lax and Nearly Beloved - This house of mine
Lazzie and Dammithy - Rarnine
LB and the LB BLs - Backs and the slacks
Left Ready - Ghosts
Librarians - Original soundtrack from the television series
Ligro - Dictionary 3
Linty Tinty - Bobo and the lobster squirrel
Brian Lisk and the Unfortunates - Curtisinterruptedus
Peter Liu - Bamboo groove
London Music Works - Epic themes
Mike Love - Gypsy man
Lucifer's Friend - Awakening
Lunden Reign - American stranger
Luv - Original motion picture soundtrack
Luxury - Bones & beaten heart
M
Tim Mahoney - Peace of winter
Maia & The Pilots - Taking off
La Mandragore - Midgard
Mantoes - Mangoes
Many Arms & Toshimaru Nakamura - Many Arms & Toshimaru Nakamura
Graig Markel and the 88th St. Band - Graig Markel and the 88th St. Band
Craig Marshall - After all
Frince Marshall - Another Marshall
Pamela J. Marshall - Through the mist
Max - Original motion picture soundtrack
Jimmy McIntosh and... - Jimmy McIntosh and...
Medici - Red eye
Mono Pony - Idle beauty
Moon & Polution - The box borealis
Moop Poom - Moooooo porium la tordent
Moors & McCumber - Pandemonium
Criag Madden Morris - Circle of love and other choral offerings
Jeremy Morris - Bright morning star
Ken Will Morton - All's fair in love and war
Moto Continuo - New works for pinao trio and solo cello
Zae Munn - They were mysterious guests
Michael Murray - Percipience
Jordan Myers - Ruin me with love
N
Nacona - Long gone song
Naazer - Blushy mush mush
Neighborhood Bullys - Callin' all rockers!
Neu Human - How to stop time
Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb - Original motion picture soundtrack
Noah's Tape - Vol. 2
Noo Noo - Packlets and niblets
Nuster Plus - Taxi mission dumb
O
Dawn Oberg - Bring
One The Huggler - Nearly a sin
Orange is the New Black - Music from the original series
Orphan Black - Original television score
Orphan Black - Original television soundtrack
Pete Oxley / Nicolas Meier - Chasing tales
P
Chris Page - Volume vs. voice
Gabrielle Papillon - The tempest of old
Daniel Pearson - Alone, together
Penny Dreadful - Music for the Showtime original series
Kat Perkins - Fearless
Pinder Brothers - Melancholy sea
Playing It Cool - Original motion picture soundtrack
Jeremy Porter and the Tucos - Above the sweet tea line
Jon Pousette-Dart - Talk
Puss the Rowler - Most of the mist
Q
Quill - Brush with the moon
R
Mason Razavi / Bennett Roth-Newell - After you
RBBAKKA - Now the phlop
Brad Reiman - Walking in the unknown
Rewrite - Original motion picture soundtrack
Sarah Lou Richards - The woman behind the curtain
Kimm Rogers - Where the pavement grows
Lila Rose - We animals
Roxy Roca - Ain't nothin' fancy
S
Lionel Sainsbury - Andalusian fantasy
Sasha's Bloc - Heart on fire
Elliot Schneider - Better a fool than aloof
Pierre Schroeder - Voyage
Sciflyer - Energizer
Seahorse - The fire's heart
Shack Band - America
Shae - Can you feel the music
Sahkespeare Concerts Series - Full fathom five
Shakespeare Concerts Series - Orpheus with his lute made trees
Shams - One and all
Shoe Birds - Southern gothic
Sick of Sarah - Anthem
Cameron Siegel & Friends - World junk
Siena Root - Pioneers
Ian Sims and Divergent Paths - Conundrum
Vytautas Smetona - All the way back
Snow In Mexico - Juno beach
Soda Pop Sun - Soda Pop Sun
Alan Sondheim, Azure Carter, Luke Damrosch - Threnody: Shorter discourses
of hte Buddha
Jillian Speer - Daggers & suede
Bert Sperling - Renaissance
Spuyten Duyvil - The social music hour Vol. 1
Southpaw - Original motion picture soundtrack
Stairway - Pearls of the deep (best of)
James M. Stephenson - The devil's tale
Stubborn Son - Birthright
McClain Sullivan - Rachel
Summer Children - On the go with Summer Children
Sun Soul Orchestra - What matters most
Super Nova - Luna aura
Sweet - New York groove plus
T
32 Below - Every little thing about you
10,000 Maniacs - Twice told tales
Joe Jack Talcum - Home recordings 1993-99
Rachel Taylor - Magnetic
TBelly - Dead men don't pray
Them Howling Bones - Them Howling Bones
theSHIFT - 7th direction
Thirty Steps To Forward - Hinterland
Tidelands - Old mill park
Tornado Project - Trios for flute, clarinet, and computer
Tree Machines - Tree Machines
Tripping Souls - Don't waste your life
Trust Fund / Joanna Gruesome - Split vinyl EP
U
Ugly Guys - Still twenty-five in your head
Unfinished Business - Original motion picture soundtrack
George Usher / Lisa Burns - The last day of winter
V
Toomas Vanem - Toomas Vanem
Various Artists - Sweet Relief: Love is Everywhere
Javier Vercher - Wish you were here
Eyal Vilner Big Band - Almost Sunrise
Vixerupper - Nowdy doo
Michael Vlatkovich Septet - Ask 7
Vogue Dots - Mauka
W
Skoota Warner - Vignettes
Wasted Wine vs. The Hypnosis Center - Wasted Wine vs. The Hypnosis Center
Wendy Webb - This is the moment
Geoff Westen - I'm not crazy
John Wetton - Anthology
John Wetton - New York minute
Megan Wilde - Wildfire EP
Words and Pictures - Original motion picture soundtrack
Wyatt - Here comes everybody
X
Xraw - Rawx
Xyew - Drainage pouch
Y
Yillie Momo - Puckie the minchster
Yowsuh - Mouse and pins
Z
Daniel Z - Some romantic night - the solo years
Zust - Million dollar pennies
