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Reviews from
August 2009
RATING SYSTEM:
= UNBELIEVABLY
INCREDIBLE
= EXCELLENT,
LIKE SPICY NOODLE
= VERY
GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
A life worth living
Is a life that isn't
Worth examining.(Rating: 1)
The
Arrest - 01 (CD, Princess,
Pop)
The Arrest is the quartet consisting of Luke Albertson, Paul
Budish, Seth Doran, and Mark Edwards. In recording this
album, these four individuals tried to keep things simple...so that the
overall sound could be presented as accurately as possible in a live setting.
01 presents ten tracks. The songs tend to sound something like a
cross between Radiohead and twenty-first century David Bowie.
Some of the cuts have a somewhat arena-like sound while others are more
sparse and direct. Some of these ideas work better than others. Our favorite
tracks include "One x One," "The Tightrope," and "001011."
This might be one of those cases in which the live performance would push
these songs to another level...? Good solid pop stuff. (Rating: 4++++)
Aspects
of Physics - Marginalized Information Forms
Three: Other (CD, Imputor?,
Progressive/instrumental)
The third and final release of a CD trilogy presented by the folks in Aspects
of Physics. Unfortunately we were not exposed to the previous two albums
so we cannot compare and/or contrast between the three. The players on this
CD are Jason Soares, Brent Asbury, JFRE Coad, Mathias
Lorenz, Art Ulloa, Brandon Relf, and Rob Crow.
Marginalized Information Forms Three: Other presents ten compositions,
most of which are lengthy and spontaneous. These tracks combine elements
from 1970s progressive rock with improvisational jazz and free-form electronics
and hypnotic guitar riffs. All of the tracks are instrumentals. This is
the kind of album that grows on you over time. We found that we had to spin
this l'il sucker about half a dozen times before the music began to sink
in. It's kinda like...modern mood music with jazzy undercurrents. Nice solid
cuts include "Default Actions," "Level 3," "That
Which Resists," and "Unwindings are Sound." Cool modern progressive
stuff with a twist. (Rating: 5+)
Astronauts
of Antiquity - Rocket Science For Dummies
(CD, RevCon, Pop)
We must report right off the bat that this is a super, super, super slick
and calculated album...so if that kinda thing turns you off, be forewarned.
To be honest, in most cases artists fitting in such a category usually turn
us off...but for some reason we actually kinda dig the ultra-produced
sound of Astronauts of Antiquity. In spinning this, the first band
that came to mind was The Bird and The Bee...because the basic sound
and song formulas are very similar. And, considering the recent instant
popularity of The Bird and The Bee, such a similarity isn't a bad thing
at all. On the first spin Rocket Science For Dummies sounded really
smooth and nice...but by the fourth or fifth spin we found ourselves surprisingly
absorbed by many of these creative elevating tracks. Nice, smooth, danceable
dreamy cuts include "Everywhere," "Rocket Science,"
"Emo Healing," and "Dance Until Dawn." Sounds like great
springtime driving music to us... (Rating: 5)
The
Backsliders - Thank You (Independently
released CD, Pop/rock)
The folks in The Backsliders hit the target dead on with this
release. If you like great, melodic, guitar-driven pop/rock played with
no filler and no unnecessary ingredients, Thank You just may be the
album you have been dreaming of. Instead of layering and overdubbing their
music to death like everyone else, on this album these folks take the exact
opposite approach...delivering their songs simply and straight-from-the-hip.
The result? Ten solid straight shooters that ought to please even the most
jaded music fan. These recordings capture the sound of a tight rock band
playing live (even though these are studio recordings). The tracks have
a nice raw, slightly unpolished sound that is extremely inviting. Interestingly...the
band is offering this album totally free of charge (?!?) on their
web site. But we're guessing/hoping that you will either want to make a
donation or purchase a hard copy...because even though this can be had for
free, it is definitely WORTH BUYING. On any other album, the inclusion of
the cover tune "Keep A Knockin'" would drive us up the wall...but
in this case, the band's rendition fits perfectly within the scope of the
other cuts. Several modern classics here including "Maybellene Don't"
(an incredible little tune that we can't get out of our heads), "Last
Call," "Twisted," and "Damaged Goods." A wonderfully
entertaining album from a wonderfully entertaining quartet. (Rating: 5+++)
Phil
Barry - Between the Carolinas (Advance
CD-R, Hey Burner!, Pop)
Hard to believe this is a self-released disc only available as a CD-R...?!?
Though this is Phil Barry's debut album, he is no newcomer to the
world of music. Barry was previously in the band Knee Deep Shag before
accepting a position playing guitar for Rachael Yamagata. But our
guess is that in the future Between the Carolinas will be what most
listeners will remember as their introduction to Phil's music. Anyone who
ever loved the music of pure pop artists like Teenage Fanclub, Alex
Chilton, and The Pernice Brothers will almost certainly fall
in love with this man's music the first time they hear it. His songs are
soft and smooth and driven by the gentle strumming of an acoustic guitar.
The gliding melodies are incredibly effective...and Barry is one of those
guys with a voice so good it'll make you squirm. Several of Phil's
songs have already been licensed for television shows...so our guess is
that it won't be long before some savvy record label snaps this guy up.
Killer cuts include "Crying Shame," "Between the Carolinas,"
"Never Gonna Be Your Man," and "Mercury." Recommended.
(Rating: 5++)
A bear used to be
A sexy hairy chunky guy.
Now a bear is
Any generic obnoxious overweight sissy
With a beard.(Rating: 1)
Be
My Weapon - Be My Weapon (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Swell fans listen up. Be My Weapon is duo/side project consisting
of David Freel (of Swell) and Ron Burns (on drums). The ten
tracks on this CD were "recorded in the snowy hills of Oregon and the
endless sunshine of southern California." Freel's free-flowing songs
feature cool subdued guitars and haunting vocals. These songs are not instantly
accessible. Rather than being an album of songs that sound like hits, this
self-titled collection of tunes is more reflective and less obvious. Interesting
cuts include "Come Livid," "Bad Bad Bad," "Love
is Just So Overrated," and "The Last Song." Nice moody stuff.
(Rating: 4++++)
Big Star - #1 Record / Radio City (CD, Ardent / Fantasy / Concord, Pop)
Oh God...what could we possibly say here that hasn't already been
said many times before...? Okay, so we have to admit that we burned out
on these albums decades ago. After all, we started listening to Big Star
way, way back when they first started playing and recording in the
1970s. And we also have to admit that part of the initial appeal for us
was the fact that so many people didn't seem interested at the time
(except for a few key reviewers around the country). Like so many of the
most influential bands of the twenty-first century (The Ramones,
T. Rex, et. al), when Big Star started the band had very few American
fans. And yet, over time, their influence has been phenomenal. If
only Chris Bell (like Pete Ham) could have known how much
his music would mean to so manly people over time (!). Skip to 2009...and
the fine folks at Concord opted to release a remastered CD containing the
band's first two albums...complete with two bonus tracks. No, not new unearthed
tracks (dammit!)...but two single mixes of the songs "In The Street"
and "O My Soul." Perhaps because we haven't actually played these
albums in many, many years...or perhaps because we were just in the mood
for something familiar...we got chills hearing these songs again. The sound
quality is exceptional, particularly when you consider how long ago these
tracks were recorded. Anyone who ever loved this band will undoubtedly want
to get their hands on this. For anyone who never experienced the music of
Big Star...we strongly recommend that you check this one out. Killer
timeless classic pop cuts here..."Feel," "The Ballad of El
Goodo," "In The Street," "O My Soul," "Back
of a Car" (one of our all-time favorite pop songs ever), "September
Gurls"...man oh man... As you might already guess, this one is highly
recommended... (Rating: 6)
Capture a bird and
Remove its
Wings.(Rating: 1)
Black Feather - Silhouette (CD, Other
Electricities, Progressive pop)
This is an album with a different overall sound and approach. Black Feather
is the solo project consisting of Harald Froland (who was the guitarist
in the band Jaga Jazzist)...although several guest artists lend a
helping hand here. Silhouette is a soothing, dreamy, ethereal spin.
Some of Froland's thick, cerebral arrangements sound similar to what you
might hear from twenty-first century shoegazer bands. But don't expect aimless
drone music here. Instead, these highly melodic compositions recall classic
artists like Pink Floyd and Lilys. These songs are not easy
and catchy. They require many spins in order for the substance to begin
to sink in. We initially had to listen to this CD ten or more times before
coming to the conclusion that we absolutely loved it. Strange unconventional
modern pop tracks include "The Cut," "Razor Blade,"
"Cool Cloud," and "Ardent Cloud." Killer vocals from
start to finish. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Broken
Promise Keeper - Ice Cold Pop (Independently
released CD-R, Pop)
Broken Promise Keeper is the one-man pop created by Rob Stuart
who writes and records in Decatur, Georgia. The appropriately titled Ice
Cold Pop is a pure pop album with no unnecessary filler. Rob writes
super hummable upbeat pop tunes that could be appreciated by millions with
the right backing and/or production. His tunes are basic classic pop and
he uses traditional instruments to get his message across. Of course, in
the world of pop music vocals are perhaps the most critical link. Mr. Stuart's
voice is what first made our ears perk up when we heard this album. Not
only does this guy write some great tunes, but he has a nice understated
voice that really gives these tunes their necessary kick. This album has
a nice, smooth, subtle home-recorded sound that makes it particularly pleasing.
No super overly busy production here...only the necessary ingredients. Smooth
feelgood cuts include "Directions," "Kristine," "Show
Me," and "Goodbye." This should be particularly appealing
to fans of The Beatles and The Shoes. (Rating: 4++++)
Buckfast
Superbee - Turn of the Radio Age (CD,
Walking, Pop/rock)
The guys in this San Diego, California-based band already have a solid fan
base. Our guess is that Turn of the Radio Age will not only please
the band's fans...but bring in legions more as well. Named after an English
monk who worked with bees in the early twentieth century, Buckfast Superbee
is a well-oiled machine. The guys in this band play hard rock that is rough
enough around the edges to please the underground crowd yet melodic enough
to satisfy more commercially-inclined listeners. This slick sounding album
was recorded and produced by Pall Jenkins (Three Mile Pilot, Black
Heart Procession) and mixed by Joe Marlett (Foo Fighters,
Queens of the Stone Age)...so you know it sounds good. Hard driving
rockers include "The Heavy Persuader," "Gibraltar,"
"Automatic," and "Spirit of the Underachiever." (Rating:
4++++)
Caprica
- Original Soundtrack From the Sci Fi Channel Television Pilot Episode:
Music Composed by Bear McCreary (CD, La-La
Land, Soundtrack)
This is the soundtrack to the two-hour pilot movie Caprica that is
available now on DVD (but won't be televised until early 2010 when it premieres
on the SCI FI Channel). Caprica is the prequel to the popular Battlestar
Galactica series, for which Bear McCreary also composed music.
This soundtrack CD features eighteen symphonic creations with a decidedly
classical sound and feel. The attention to detail here is staggering. McCreary
and his associates meticulously recorded these tracks to add as much genuine
realism to the film as possible...and the results are triumphant. These
strange, moody, puzzling pieces feature some wonderfully warm strings...and
the sound quality is light years beyond exceptional. It's no wonder that
Bear is one of the most sought-after composers on the Hollywood circuit.
He creates magnificent music that actually seems to come from the heart
(no small feat in today's peculiar world). Top picks: "The Graystone
Family," "Daniel Captures the Code," "Monotheism at
the Athena Academy," and "Zoe Awakens." Recommended. (Rating:
5++)
Cheap
Trick - The Latest (Independently released
CD, Pop/rock)
We were huge, huge fans of Cheap Trick's first three albums. But
we have to admit that the band lost us over the past few years as their
more recent albums just didn't seem to hit the mark. Well never say never...because
The Latest is the best Cheap Trick album we've heard in decades.
Apparently there was a serious attempt to recreate some of the band's trademark
power pop sound that pleased so many people...and in many ways they succeeded.
Okay, sure...there's probably no way these guys will ever be able to top
a pure pop masterpiece like Heaven Tonight. But hey, at least at
this point they're trying to hit the mark. Lots of super catchy, upbeat,
arena-pop here that should please the band's original fans. Almost every
track here is a keeper, but our favorites include "When the Lights
Are Out" (a virtually perfect hit single), "Miss Tomorrow,"
"These Days," "California Girl," and "Smile."
Oh, and as an interesting side note...this album is being simultaneously
released on vinyl as well as 8-track tape (yup, you read that right...).
Interesting marketing ploy. The best news...is that these guys are finally
back with a good solid album. (Rating: 5)
Chet
- Chelsea Silver, Please Come Home (Advance CD-R, Absolutely
Kosher, Soft pop)
Intriguing sparse, subtle music from a Canadian fellow who sounds as if
his music is being crafted from another decade. Chet's songs are
purposely subdued and simple...and he has an unusual voice that is particularly
interesting. This, his fourth album, features eleven tracks that clock in
at just over 40 minutes. We would have liked to have seen the actual complete
release on this one rather than an advance CD-R. As such, this one definitely
gets a thumbs up...but only a partial review because we received only part
of the actual final product... (Not Rated)
Cetan
Clawson - White Heat (Independently
released CD, Rock)
In the 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and even into the 1990s...it seemed as if guitar
heroes were everywhere. And it seemed as if, for a very long time,
people just couldn't get enough of egotistical lead guitarists. But for
some strange reason (jumping into the twenty-first century) it now seems
as if the guitar heroes are something of a dying breed. Oh sure, they're
still around to some degree (and always will be)...but for some reason you
just don't see and/or hear as many of 'em as you used to. Accordingly and
as such, the music of Cetan Clawson caught our attention because
this young fellow has most certainly assumed the role of guitar hero very
early in his career. His music sounds something like a cross between The
Nazz and Jimi Hendrix (much more the latter than the former).
And yes, ladies and gentlemen...this guy sure as Hell can play his
guitar. Sometimes the Hendrix similarities are just too obvious ("Short
Fuse" is almost too blatant)...but for the most part Clawson seems
to just be having a great time playing homage to his idols. Sure, he even
misses a few notes here and there...but hey, you have to hand it to a guy
this young who has the balls and ambition to even attempt to be a guitar
hero in 2009. Smart punchy cuts include "Killing Floor," "Over
the Top," and "Loving a Living Lie." Nice cool energy throughout
all fifteen cuts. (Rating: 4++++)
Dejha
Colantuono - Tea & Vodka (CD, Mad Meow Music, Pop)
For better or worse, this is probably one of those cool little albums that
unfortunately falls through the cracks. So if you like getting in on the
ground floor where cool new artists reside, read on. Dejha Colantuono
has a really great voice. She got her start singing in several Seattle,
Washington bands including 3-D S&M, The Pin-Ups, Rotten
Apples, and Ragazza before embarking on a solo career. The polished
mature sounds on Tea & Vodka may be the result of all Dejha's
previous experience. Whatever the reason or cause, Ms. Colantuono has come
up with a really impressive batch of tunes here. Her music sounds something
like a modern version of the more normal side of PJ Harvey...but
not really (?). Her music is most definitely accessible and could easily
be appreciated by the masses if they had an opportunity to hear it. On some
of the lighter tunes Dejha's voice reminds us ever-so-slightly of the vastly
underrated British soul/pop vocalist Linda Lewis. Nothing but cool
stuff here. Kickass cuts include "Beginning to End," "Feel
You're Going Nowhere," and "Something With You." Nice, slick,
well arranged tunes that hold up to many repeated spins... (Rating: 5+)
The
Conniption Fits - A Heaping Helping of Perspective
(Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
Hard-hitting guitar driven pop/rock with plenty of punchy attitude. The
Conniption Fits is the trio consisting of Stevens Blanchard,
Erik Von Geldern, and Seth Roya. A lot of folks will probably
label these guys as a power pop band...but their music is actually much
more depthy than that term might imply. Instead of simple, familiar chord
progressions, the tunes on A Heaping Helping of Perspective are full
of smart, intricate guitar riffs that add an extra jolt to the proceedings.
The band resides in the unlikely city of Fairlee, Vermont...which kinda
makes us wonder why we hear from so few bands from that state...? This is
an impressively slick sounding album...particularly when you consider the
fact that the band produced, engineered, and recorded it themselves. This
short little half hour disc truly kicks out the jams. Particularly cool
sounding cuts include "Now I Take My Leave," "The Game of
Grace," and "Grit Your Teeth." Well done. (Rating: 5)
The
Danks - Are You Afraid of The Danks?
(CD, Collegen Rock, Pop)
Superb effervescent power pop played with real conviction. Canada's The
Danks is the quartet consisting of Brohan Moore, Alec O'Hanley,
Phil MacIsaac, and Andrew MacDonald. The band's sound is simple...guitar,
bass, drums...but the melodies are what set these guys apart from their
contemporaries. We've always been big fans of soaring heavenly melodies...and
Are You Afraid of The Danks? is just chock full of 'em. Cool
guitar riffs...great vocals...a perpetually groovy rhythm section...what
more needs to be said...? By keeping things simple and direct, the guys
in The Danks have managed to come up with a power pop album that truly delivers
the goods. Crowd pleasing pop/rockers include "What We're Doing,"
"Automocar," "Shifty," and "Planet Beach."
Plenty of great material here. (Rating: 5+)
Dappled
Cities - Zounds (CD, Dangerbird,
Progressive pop)
Interesting modern progressive pop that recalls some of the more progressive
popular British pop artists from the 1980s like Simple Minds, David
Bowie, and Thomas Dolby. Zounds has a really big slick
sound. The guys in this band are apparently fond of using layers of keyboards
and tons of effects...giving their songs a big arena-like sound. We went
to the band's web site...and found a very impressive web site with tons
of stuff...but very little in the way of biographical information. Many
of the cuts on this album sound very British. The tunes are artsy yet accessible.
Twelve cool credible tracks here with our favorite being "Don't Stop
There." We would have liked to have seen the actual complete release
on this one rather than an advance CD-R. As such, this one definitely
gets a thumbs up...but only a partial review because we received only part
of the actual final product... (Not Rated)
DarkBlueWorld - The Perilous Beauty of Madness (CD, Drip
Audio / Fontana North,
Progressive pop)
If you're looking for a quick, easy music fix, you probably won't have the
patience required here. The folks in DarkBlueWorld aren't playing
for the commercial market...those listeners who want easy, familiar sounding
music that requires no thought. This band's sound centers around the uniquely
and instantly identifiable vocals of Elizabeth Fischer who some folks
may remember as the vocalist in the 1980s Canadian band Animal Slaves.
The Perilous Beauty of Madness is a peculiar spin indeed. On this
album, these folks come across sounding ever-so-slightly like a modern,
more updated version of 1970s British art band Henry Cow (except
with a much heavier blues/jazz influence). It is fortunate indeed that the
band opted to include a foldout lyric sheet...because you will most certainly
want to read along as you listen. Eleven progressive tracks here including
"Demimonde," "On A Wire," "Nothing's Ever As It
Seems," and "Somebody." A different sort of flavor worth
taking the time to absorb... (Rating: 5)
Dark Room Notes - We Love You Dark Matter (CD, Gonzo, Pop)
The debut full-length release from Ireland's Dark Room Notes. We
Love You Dark Matter is an instantly likable keyboard-driven pop album
with cool moody songs that sound something like a cross between Mitch
Easter and Howard Devoto...without ever sounding too much like
either one. The album has a nice retro-1980s sound and feel which is a big
plus in the band's favor considering the recent resurgence of 1980s-inspired
bands. So many twenty-first century bands make music that is difficult to
understand and/or digest. This is most certainly not the case here.
The songs on this album are light enough to be easily enjoyed...while having
just enough artistic integrity to make them interesting. Packaged in a beautiful
tri-fold digipak sleeve that includes a super slick little lyric booklet...and
released on the band's own Gonzo label. Cool cuts include "Each and
Every One Of Us," "This Hot Heat," "Broken Nail,"
and "Treetops." Neat sounding stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Make your day by
Ruining someone else's
Day.(Rating: 1)
The
Dead Weather - Horehound (CD, Third
Man, Rock)
The Dead Weather is the Nashville, Tennessee-based quartet consisting
of Alison Mosshart, Dean Fertita, Jack Lawrence, and
Jack White. Because this disc arrived in our trusty mailbox without
any accompanying literature and/or press release, we visited the band's
web site...only to find that there was very little biographical information
there. So...all we can present and/or report is based upon what we're hearing.
Horehound is a true rock and roll album. So many modern bands' music
is cleaned up and polished to the point that it has no personality at all.
The folks in this band seem driven to maintain an edge with their music.
The playing is tight...but loose enough so that some of the ragged edges
are still evident. And vocalist Alison Mosshart's voice has a nice, rough,
slightly unrehearsed sound that is a perfect match for the band's raw bluesy
rock (plus she has really great hair--honest). This eleven track
album may be a bit too noisy for the conventional music fan. But our guess
is that listeners into underground rock are gonna love this one.
Top picks: "60 Feet Tall," "Treat Me Like Your Mother,"
and "Will There Be Enough Water?" Good rockin' stuff. (Rating:
5+)
The
Dear Hunter - Act III: Life and Death
(Independently released CD, Pop)
The third chapter/release of the rock opera presented by the band The
Dear Hunter. Bandleader Casey Crescenzo and his fellow band members
present some rather thick and complex tunes here. Act III: Life and Death
seems obviously very heavily influenced by Freddie Mercury (Queen).
Crescenzo's melodies have the same soaring, free-flowing qualities. Plus,
like Mercury, his songs are heavily reliant on overdubs and big complex
arrangements. But rather than being a straight away rock band, The Dear
Hunter is actually a much more progressive endeavor. Sure, the songs are
accessible and melodic...but the rhythms and arrangements are a far cry
from what you hear from the average twenty-first century garage band. The
packaging is really nice...the CD is housed in a cool digipak sleeve that
includes several little individual "post cards" that include lyrics
to each tune. Slick stuff. (Rating: 4++++)
The Delfields - Ogres (Independently released CD, Pop)
We really like the cover art on this one. Instead of providing tons of irrelevant
details, this band presents their album simply and without fanfare. And
that's just perfect because...it offers a clear indication of what the music
on the disc sounds like. Ogres is a very short album lasting under
half an hour. The folks in The Delfields write and record mid-tempo
pensive pop tunes with an emphasis on lyrics and vocal melodies. The overall
recorded sound harkens back to underground pop bands from the 1960s. The
tunes are based around simply strummed guitars and the vocals have a lot
of reverb. Neat reflective cuts include "A Slippery Slope," "Francine,"
"Ogres," and "Highlands." Recommended for fans of Outrageous
Cherry. (Rating: 5)
Dignan - Cheaters & Thieves (Independently released CD, Pop)
The debut full-length release from McAllen, Texas-based five piece band
Dignan. We were instantly drawn to the tunes on Cheaters &
Thieves. These folks have an intriguing dreamy progressive sound that
recalls a variety of artists including (but not limited to) Pink Floyd,
Lilys, and Starflyer 59. But far from being a copycat band,
Dignan is a group with their own sound and style. The interweaving guitars
and keyboards are strangely hypnotic...and the restrained vocals are a perfect
fit for the music. If you're in the market for predictable samey pop, you
won't find it here. The tunes on this CD are smart and inventive...and
stand up to many repeated spins. Only just under half an hour in length...but
with this release these guys manage to hit the bull's eye with every track.
Standout tracks include "A Fool," "What's Done Is Done,"
"You're My Witness," and "Whistler." Excellent heady
stuff. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Division
Day - Visitation (CD, Dangerbird,
Progressive pop/rock)
This band just keeps getting better and better. The guys in Division
Day now have an appropriate home on the Dangerbird label. Visitation
may just be their strongest release yet. This cool eleven track album features
plenty of thick progressive pop/rock tunes with a heavy emphasis on vocal
melodies and lyrics. These cool, flowing cuts feature plenty of lush keyboards
and unconventional instrumentation. Some of these songs are very restrained
and subdued...while others pack quite a punch. The band's vocalist has a
really intriguing voice. Even though he's an emotional crooner, he never
comes across sounding fake or contrived. And while Visitation has
many elements that may appeal to the shoegazer crowd...the band's sound
is anything but a monotonous drone. The more we spin this album...the
better it sounds. Groovy cuts include "Reservoir," "Chalk
Lines," "Surrender," and "Black Crow." Cool hypnotic
stuff. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Dreams are a waste
Of time and
Energy.(Rating: 1)
The
Elderberries - Ignorance & Bliss
(French import CD, Discograph,
Pop/rock)
The folks in The Elderberries have a very thick, polished, accessible
sound. So much so that we have to admit that on the first few spins we didn't
really care for Ignorance & Bliss. This wasn't as much a reaction
to the songs as it was that this album has so many overdubs that it is difficult
to absorb the actual songs. We're glad we took the time to get to know these
songs however...because we eventually found that there is a lot to like
about this band. After becoming familiar with the music we finally decided
that if you must listen to arena-based pop/rock...this is probably about
as good as it gets. These folks present their in-your-face tunes with plenty
of positive energy...and the songs have a surprising amount of staying power.
Add to all of this the fact that the vocals are always right on target...and
you have a pretty cool band that just happens to have the potential to appeal
to millions of listeners. Catchy cuts include "Au Bikini," "The
Choice," "Impostor," and "Sick of Silence." (Rating:
4++++)
Eva
Wrengaw - oooI:IooI:IooI:oIIo:oIoI:oII"
(Italian import CD-R, Progressive)
This album easily wins the prize of ALL TIME for "most difficult album
title to type in the entire history of mankind" (try it and see
for yourself). This CD-R was shipped to us from Italy with no accompanying
literature or press release. The only thing we know about the band Eva
Wrengaw are the names of the band members: Umberto Chiodi, Marco
Degli Esposti, Nicola Govoni, Paolo Pagnoni, and Roberto
Taddia. These folks write and record moody, complex progressive music
that is difficult to describe and/or compare to other artists. This album
consists of four lengthy cuts that have a combined length of just over half
an hour. Some of this music is reminiscent of European progressive bands
from the 1970s. Intriguing stuff, eclectic and strange... (Rating: 4+++)
Greg
Foresman - Kodiak (Independently released
CD, Pop)
At this point in time, Greg Foresman is best known as the lead guitarist
for Martina McBride when she tours. But like so many musicians that
play for pay, Foresman is also a singer/songwriter in his own right. Kodiak
is Foresman's fourth full-length release. Not surprisingly, guitars are
the most integral instrument on this album. Greg writes some cool accessible
pop tunes that sound remarkably radio-friendly. We are particularly impressed
with the sound of "In Your Light," "Suicide Bomber,"
and "Big Sky Country." We have to admit that we were disappointed
by the overt similarity of "Goin' To The Country" to Neil Young's
"Are You Ready For The Country?" Probably done tongue-in-cheek,
but Young's name was not even mentioned on the sleeve (?) which seemed a
bit odd. Still a good album with some killer tracks... (Rating: 4+++)
The Ginger Envelope - Invitation Air (CD-R, One
Percent Press, Pop)
We missed out on this band's debut album...so Invitation Air serves
as an introduction for us. The guys in The Ginger Envelope recorded
this album on an analog sixteen track recorder in a studio built in a friend's
basement in Athens, Georgia. More than any other artist or band, the tracks
on this album remind us very much of babysue favorite Brothers
and Sisters. These guys play subtle, melodic, organic pop tunes that
are ultimately smooth and breezy...and the pedal steel guitar adds just
the right amount audio plushness. No big fuzzy guitar sounds...no cutesy
technological tricks...no thick walls of overdubs...virtually nothing to
get in the way of the songs themselves. The band is driven by the songwriting
talents of a young fellow named Patrick Carey. Carey has a great
loose, understated vocal style that is perfectly suited for his style of
music. All of the songs here are originals with the exception of a cover
of Loudin Wainwright III's "Swimming Song." Cool free-flowing
folky pop tunes with subtle threads of bluegrass include "Turn Into
Tempests," "Roddy," "Moon Rover," and "Invitation
Air." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The Ginger Envelope at JJ's Bohemia, Chattanooga,
TN (Live Performance)
We were pleased as Hell to learn that this cool little band was coming through
Chattanooga...plus it gave us a chance to check out what is--without a doubt--the
coolest rock club in Chattanooga, TN (JJ's Bohemia). After hearing/reviewing
the latest album from The Ginger Envelope (see review above), we were curious
to see how the band's recorded sound would translate in a live setting...particularly
since many of their tunes are extremely soft and subtle. There was, unfortunately,
a very long lag time between the time the opening band stopped and when
guys in The Ginger Envelope began...so this was probably not a big plus
on this particular evening. But when the band finally began to play, it
made it all worthwhile. All of the players in this band are professionals...good,
solid musicians who really have their chops together. In a live setting,
this band packs more of a punch than we would have predicted from their
last batch of recordings. The drummer plays hard...and the pedal steel guitar
player was incredibly dynamic from start to finish. Vocalist Patrick
Carey is one of those fellows who has a voice that is so unique that
he can't be mistaken for anyone else. That could be a big plus or a big
minus for this band depending on your point of view. In our opinion, the
peculiar vocals add just the right twist to separate the band from the rest
of the pack. Watching this band play...we began to come up with a pretty
good way of summing up their music. The Ginger Envelope sounds something
like early Neil Young with Justin Strauss from Milk 'N'
Cookies on lead vocals...all gelled up into a unique little twenty-first
century underground Americana band. During this show, the guys played a
mixture of tunes from their first and second albums--which really made us
wish we had been familiar with the first album prior to seeing this show.
The audience reaction was mixed. At first folks weren't paying too much
attention. Three or four songs later it seemed as if the band had everyone
at the club within their grasp...but by the end of the set it seemed as
if much of the audience had splintered away. We're not sure if this was
because of the lateness of the show or because people were not familiar
with the tunes...(?). In any event, we left feeling totally satisfied...and
even more impressed with The Ginger Envelope than we were before the show.
This is a band that--above all else--has truly great songs. This
band's music will most surely stand the test of time. Wonderfully genuine
music played with pure brilliance. Check out their recorded work...and see
the band if they play anywhere near you. These guys are most certainly worth
the time and the money... (Rating: 5++)
Grappling
Hook - And Those Who Would Keep Us Safe
(Independently released LP + CD-R, Rock)
Talk about a limited edition release (!). And Those Who Would Keep Us
Safe is initially being released as a vinyl LP (with CD-R included for
easy reference)...and there are only 253 copies being pressed. (You read
that right...not 250 or 300...the exact number is 253.) So anyone with
even a possible interest should grab a copy fast. Hopefully this
release will either cause this album to be picked up by a label or inspire
the band to reissue this on CD...because Safe is one kickass album
full of intricate and complex hard rock. The album is short...these seven
songs spin by in just over half an hour. But during that time these folks
constantly keep your attention by playing with real conviction...and the
music has balls. Really nifty cover art by Brendan Monroe
completes the package. Our favorite cuts include "I Judge You Not O
Juggernaut," "Broken and Stolen," and "For All The People."
On at least a few occasions, these tunes remind us a bit of the 1970s British
progressive band Gentle Giant. Cool stuff. (Rating: 5+)
The
Grownup Noise - The Grownup Noise (Independently
released CD, Pop)
This album hit our post office box at an interesting point in time because
this band has a sound that is remarkably similar to one of our favorite
new British bands, Hiding In
Public. Like Hiding In Public, the folks in The Grownup Noise
sound something like a more commercially inclined version of the underground
band The Solipsistics (the vocals are particular similar). This self-titled
album is all about vocal melodies and lyrics. The instruments used all serve
to support the main melodies in the tunes. Subtle, smart, and slightly pensive...this
thirteen track album is clean, pure, and sincere. Nice understated photos
of a typewriter adorn the digipak sleeve (and lyrics are included).
Top picks: "Make Believe," "Messy Apartment," "The
Oldest Running Feature," and "Give Me Time." Cool stuff...!
(Rating: 5+)
Ed
Hale - Ballad on Third Avenue (CD, Dying Van Gogh, Pop)
We had to spin this disc several times before coming to some conclusions
about the music. Not because the songs sound all that different...but because
it wasn't immediately obvious from which universe Ed Hale was coming
from. After letting his music soak in, we were reminded of several different
artists who Hale reminds us of at one time or another. We can hear some
traces of Harry Nilsson in his music as well as some of the softer
elements of the band Johnny Society. But on other occasions some
of the melodies remind us very much of John Vanderslice. Ultimately,
we determined that Hale isn't really trying to sound like or copy anyone.
The songs on Ballad on Third Avenue are basic, smooth pop tunes with
smart arrangements and intelligent lyrics. We particularly like the fact
that Ed has a cool restrained voice that is particularly appealing. We definitely
found that the more familiar these tunes became the more impressed we were.
Eleven smart reflective cuts here including "Scene in San Francisco,"
"Hello My Dove," "It Feels Too Good," and "Never
Let Me Go Again." Cool stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Ben
Cooley Hall - Owning Up To A Life (CD,
Caunounicus, Pop)
Nice, smart, simple, straightforward melodic pop with exceptional melodies.
Ben Cooley Hall is a one man band who writes and records music in
the same general vein as modern pop artists like The Miniature Tigers
(although more subdued and a bit less obvious). The tunes are happy and
upbeat...but never overtly positive or sugary. Hall is not a newcomer to
the world of music...he began by playing violin in grade school. In the
1990s he joined the Bozeman, Montana band Birdbody Hank before going
solo. Owning Up To A Life is a nice smooth spin...a surprisingly
personal and reflective sounding batch of tunes presented by a man who obviously
knows what he's doing. Some of the melodies on this album are absolutely
lovely and real ("You'll Come to Care" rates right up there with
some of Jonathan Richman's best songs). Smart, sincere tracks include
"Sunny Day," "Gingle Ale," and "Untrue." A
very nice album from start to finish. (Rating: 5+)
Harry
Potter and the Half-Blood Prince - Original
Motion Picture Soundtrack: Score Composed by Nicholas Hooper
(CD, New Line Records, Soundtrack)
It's always cause for celebration when a new Harry Potter movie comes out.
If this film is anything like the last few, it'll be an incredible mind-blower.
The music in the Potter films is a critical part of why they work so well.
So it comes as no surprise that this soundtrack composed by Nicholas
Hooper is a resounding success. Hooper manages to conjure up all the
sounds and ideas that are inherent in Harry Potter films here. These darkly-orchestrated
tracks range from upbeat to moody to slightly surreal and spooky. There's
a lot to take in...over an hour's worth of music. The soundtrack for Harry
Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (the sixth film in the series) has
that really huge digital sound that will sound absolutely killer
in theaters. If you're a Harry Potter fan, chances are you're already planning
on seeing this film and getting the soundtrack. If you haven't yet jumped
aboard, now is as good a time as any. Twenty-eight classic tracks here including
"In Noctem," "Into the Pensieve," "The Slug Party,"
and "The Drink of Despair." Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Kevin
Hearn and Thinbuckle - Havana Winter
(CD, Celery Music, Pop)
Canada's Kevin Hearn is best known as the multi-instrumentalist in
the commercially successful band Barenaked Ladies. We're going to
admit right off the bat that we aren't big fans of that band. Actually,
to be more precise and honest...we really hate Barenaked Ladies.
But you know...hating someone (or their music) just because they're in a
band you don't like doesn't make sense. So we slapped Havana Winter
into our trusty player with open minds. We're glad we did...because without
the annoying songs and trivial annoyances of his other band, Mr. Hearn writes
and records some damn fine music. This is Kevin's fifth full-length
release...and it's chock full of nice, smooth, hummable keyboard driven
pop tunes. And man, what a voice this guy has. Talk about smoooooooth.
This is a short album clocking in at just over half an hour. But these seven
tracks are super satisfying and polished to perfection. We particularly
love the cool sounds we hear in "Luna" and "H.I.T.S."
Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Hermit
Thrushes (Live performance at JJ's Bohemia,
Chattanooga, TN, July 21, 2009)
We were already impressed with this band's latest CD (Slight Fountain)
so we made a point of spinning the disc into the ground two weeks before
this show. But even though we approached the club being totally familiar
with the songs, we weren't prepared for the intense psychological assault
of Hermit Thrushes live. Wow. Like wow, wow, wow, wow...wow.
We knew these guys had great songs and a unique sound...but we had no idea
they would play with this kind of crazed intensity. Whereas the band's recorded
sound is rather restrained and has lots of soft moments, in concert these
guys play really, really loud and jump around like spastic insects
on speed. Readers should take note that these guys were playing third
on the bill at a small club on a Tuesday night. But instead of giving
it a half-assed effort, these four gentlemen played as if they were playing
for thousands. During several segments of the show, the guitarists were
jumping/leaping and smashing their feet into the stage with all their weight...so
much so that we wondered if the stage would hold up to such abuse (?!?).
Interestingly, the sound of the musicians hitting the stage became part
of the overall sound during several tunes. You would expect such an artsy
band to be somewhat cold and unfriendly...but instead the exact opposite
was true. Lead vocalist/bandleader Yianni was very chatty and friendly
with the small crowd that had gathered. Even though there were only probably
30 or 40 people in the club, his creative interaction with the audience
helped make this particular show work. Musically we still feel that this
band sounds something like a cross between Rob Crow and Captain
Beefheart...although the crazy rhythmic changes make it very difficult
to compare the music to other artists. While this band definitely makes
you want to move...you find yourself confused and bewildered by the changing/shifting
time signatures. It's almost like the guys are toying with the audience...challenging
them to see who can keep up with the frantic psychotic intensity. The drummer
was really unusual and intriguing...he reminded us of a young kid bashing
away at his kit not really caring whether or not each beat was precise or
not. The bass player seemed to be the main man keeping things from splintering
into space fragments...while both guitarists spewed peculiar and, at times,
atonal jagged riffs at the audience. In concert this band was something
like viewing controlled chaos. They were super tight and focused and played
incredibly hard...yet there was plenty of spontaneity and freeform improvisation.
If Hermit Thrushes play anywhere near you, do yourself a favor and run...don't
walk...to see this ultra-inventive and unique little band from Philadelphia.
The only thing that would've made this particular show better would have
been more bright lights on the band because--instead of standing around
like your average twenty-first century brain dead shoegazers--these guys
were really interesting to watch. We loved the band's recorded sound.
But after seeing them live...they have become an instant top favorite here
in babysueland. A killer concert that won't soon be forgotten. (Rating:
5++++)
Inf
- The Go Round (CD, Beats
Broke, Instrumental/hip hop)
Band names just keep getting weirder, don't they...? Inf (short for
the word "infinite") is actually the solo project created by Dutch
producer Bas te Braak. Longtime babysue readers may be surprised
that we are reviewing a hip hop release...because we normally hate
this style of music. What caught our attention in this case, however, was
the fact that this is an instrumental album (actually this is not
entirely true because there are some vocal snippets that pop in and out
of these tracks). So...without those annoying urban hip hop lyrics trashing
things up...we found that we can actually enjoy some of the elements of
hip hop music. Either that...or we're just impressed with the way te Braak
makes music (?!?). In any event, this eighteen track album presents some
nice, slick, adventurous music that should appeal to a wide range of listeners.
Top picks: "The Choir," "Driving Force," "City
Delights," "The Closing." (Rating: 4+++++)
The Inner Banks - Songs From Disko Bay (CD, Dag!,
Pop)
The Inner Banks is the duo consisting of Caroline Schutz and
David Gould...plus various other folks lending their talents and/or
support. Some folks may remember Caroline as the chief driving force in
the band Folksongs For The Afterlife. David was previously the leader
and banjo player in the Brooklyn, New York-based band The Bootleg Remedy.
Songs From Disko Bay sounds something like a more subdued, dreamy
version of The Bird and The Bee. To be honest the overall sound is
not all that similar (much softer and more restrained)...but this is just
an easy frame of reference. The duo uses some interesting atmospheric sounds
that bleed in and out of the tracks that give the album a slightly surreal
sound at times. Schutz has an incredible voice which is obviously
the focal point here. Only 34 minutes of music...but when the tunes sound
this cool, who cares? Top picks: "Lemon Tree," "Come
Back," "Blame." (Rating: 5)
Into
It. Over It. - 52 Weeks (CD, No Sleep, Pop/rock)
Into It. Over It. is the one man band consisting of Evan Weiss.
The appropriately titled 52 Weeks is just that--fifty-two tracks,
each of which was recorded in one weeks' time over the course of a year.
The result...is a large collection of tunes smattered across two CDs. Because
of the amount of music presented here, we unfortunately did not have enough
time to adequately absorb it all. The tunes go all over the place...from
soft folky pop to hard abrasive underground rock. A few friends helped on
on some tracks but these cuts are, for the most part, one man recordings.
There are some really cool jewels here that remind us a bit of a cross between
Guided By Voices and Sebadoh. Interesting stuff. (Not Rated)
Iron Maiden - Flight 666: The Film (Double DVD set, Universal,
Rock)
To quote from the back cover of this DVD set, "Flight 666 documents
the first leg of Maiden's legendary Somewhere Back In Time World Tour
which took them 50,000 miles round the planet playing 23 concerts on five
continents in just 45 days." Okay, that pretty much sums up the main
meat of what this set is all about...tromping around the globe with the
guys in Iron Maiden on a mammoth tour. Before we get into this, we
want to state right off the bat that we have never cared for this band's
music and, up until now, haven't been exposed to much of their stuff. Sure,
we've heard a song here and there and seen a few videos...but none of it
made much of an impression. So you may now be thinking that those holier-than-thou
babysue assholes are going to trash Iron Maiden. If so, you would
be dead wrong. This rockumentary is so good...that for the first
time in our lives we really appreciate this band and what they're all about.
A lot of the credit here goes to producers/writers/directors Scot McFadyen
and Sam Dunn...longtime fans of the band who were invited to join
and film them while on tour. These guys manage to pack an incredible amount
of material into an hour and forty minutes. And as the film progresses,
it seems to grow in intensity. One of the first things here that impressed
us is that lead vocalist Bruce Dickinson actually flies the band's
own private jet all over the world during the tour. How cool is that...?!?
Throughout the film Dickinson and his bandmates come across like intelligent
and articulate guys who are totally professional and into what they do.
So while in some cases there are hints of This Is Spinal Tap drifting
into the equation...you realize early on that these guys are not
pot-bellied old farts shoveling out the shit. They work really hard at what
they do and are extremely concerned about putting on a great show for their
fans. As the band flies all over the world putting on mammoth concerts,
the directors slowly introduce one band member after another (as well as
some members of the crew). They do such a good job with this that by the
end of the film you actually feel as you actually know something valid about
each member of the band. Another plus for the band is that they purposely
went to some places they had never been and that most big artists usually
pass over (like Costa Rica). By doing so, they managed to really energize
fans who were truly hungry for a big rock and roll show. And for anyone
who finds that the live snippet footage of the shows leaves them hungry
for more...there's an extra DVD of the band performing entire songs live
(with a different track filmed in each of 16 different cities). What is
particularly interesting is the makeup of the audience. Instead of a bunch
of diehard old farts from the 1980s, the majority of the band's fans are
very, very young. We've seen tons of documentaries/rockumentaries
over the years (who hasn't?)...but in all honesty, this has to be one
of the best. Instead of being a bunch of boring film crammed together
into a thoughtless collage, this film was prepared with loving attention
to detail...and it does a wonderful job of making you feel as if you are
actually tagging along with the band. So...even though we still won't be
downloading any of the band's material onto our MP3 player (we probably
won't ever be that keen on heavy metal arena rock)...whenever we see
the name Iron Maiden in the future...we will feel nothing but R-E-S-P-E-C-T.
Thoroughly entertaining. Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Craig
Jackson - Damn The Roses (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The fifth full-length release from Nashville, Tennessee's Craig Jackson.
Jackson plays smooth guitar-based melodic pop in the same general vein as
artists like Jackson Browne and Tom Petty. So okay...we know
such a comparison has some of you out there barfing up chunky nuggets...but
y'know, early in their careers both of those guys came up with some nice
listenable tunes. And that's exactly what Craig Jackson is providing for
his fans...nice listenable music that doesn't require a lot of thinking
and effort. These country-tinged soft Americana-based pop tunes go down
nice and easy. The main focal point are Craig's cool understated vocals...but
there are all kinds of nifty soothing guitars chiming around in the background.
Songs are the meat of this album...and all ten pretty much hit the target.
This guy has a sound that could easily appeal to millions upon millions
of listeners. The overall vibe here reminds us of Dumptruck's For
The Country album. Nice reflective cuts include "Our Last Time,"
"The Crying Game" (a particularly effective track), and "Don't
Mean Nothin." (Rating: 5)
Jeepster - What If All The Rebels Died? (CD, Distile,
Pop)
For folks (like us) who might initially be concerned that this band is just
another group of guys trying desperately...but failing miserably...to
revive the unique sound of the late, great Marc Bolan...worry not.
Fortunately the only thing this band seems to have in common with T.
Rex is the name of the band (although the press released that accompanied
this CD did mention the band as an influence). Jeepster is the trio
consisting of Justin Goings and Kyle Marcelli (both formerly
of the band O!, The Joy) and Jonah Wells. The songs on the
appropriately-titled What If All The Rebels Died? sound something
like a cross between Starflyer 59, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club,
and The Lassie Foundation (more the former two than the latter).
This album is chock full of neat guitar sounds...and that's probably what
initially impressed us. But as we listened more closely we became just as
impressed with the songs themselves. These guys are doing just about everything
right. Cool tracks include "A Day in the Dark," "Write the
End First," and "What If All the Rebels Died?" Cool stuff,
great driving music... (Rating: 5+)
Candye
Kane - Superhero (CD, Delta
Groove Music, Pop)
The ninth studio release from Candye Kane. Despite the fact that
she has made numerous appearances on many well-known television shows (Maury
Povich, CNN Showbiz Today, MTV News, and many more), at
least at this point in time Kane remains mainly an underground phenomenon.
And that seems curious to us because...her image and sound seem to have
so much mass appeal (?!). On Superhero Candye gives her fans what
they have come to expect. Upbeat blues-influenced pop tunes that allow her
to show off her vocal strengths. What has always impressed us about this
woman...and what still impresses us the most...is how much presence
she has. Instead of being a lightweight carbon copycat, Kane is the real
thing. She's sassy and real...and she's got a real meaty voice that
really works magic. Fifteen cool cuts here including "Superhero,"
"I'm a Bad, Bad Girl," "Picture of You," and "I'm
Gonna Be Just Fine." (Rating: 5)
When the baby kicks
Kick it back
Hard.(Rating: 1)
Kowtow
Popof - Exalted Headband (CD, Wampus, Pop)
Kowtow Popof is a one-man band based in Washington, D.C. Unlike most
other one-man bands currently treading around the United States, this fellow
is neither a popster nor an all-out experimental electronic artist. The
man who calls himself Kowtow Popof seems intent on writing and recording
cool, intelligent, heady instrumentals with a difference. Trying to sum
up the sound of these songs in a few words is difficult because the influences
are rather extensive. But make no mistake, this is not world music.
Instead, these songs simply go all over the place in terms of style and
sound. Some have a more organic classic sound while others incorporate more
technology into the mix. Whatever this guy does, however...he does it good.
It's no wonder he already has so many underground fans and critics singing
his praises. Sixteen satisfying cuts here including "Swimming Downhill,"
"Run to Daylight," "Chronos," and "Floaters."
Great heady progressive stuff. The attention to detail here is remarkable...
(Rating: 5+)
Lee
Harvey Osmond - A Quiet Evil (CD, Latent Recordings, Acid
folk)
The debut full-length release from Lee Harvey Osmond. The band features
former members of the bands Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, Cowboy
Junkies, and Skydiggers. Described as "acid folk" in
the press release that accompanied the CD, this band's music sounds something
like Leonard Cohen with more of a western twist. The songs are subtle
and have slightly spooky qualities threaded throughout. It's kinda like
hearing folk songs from the old west updated with traces of modern technology
to baffle the listener. These guys display a great deal of restraint on
these recordings. On many of the songs you get the impression that the band
is going to suddenly start blasting out at top volume. But instead, they
hold the reigns tight only giving possible impressions of things yet to
come. Great artwork provided by A
Man Called Wrycraft. Ten moody cuts here including "The Love
of One," "Queen Bee," and "Angels in the Wilderness."
(Rating: 4++++)
Teena
Marie - Congo Square (CD, Stax, Soul/pop)
Super slick technology driven commercial pop. A descriptive term like that
should either draw you in...or drive you away like a bat outta hell...and
that's exactly why we spelled this out right up front. Teena Marie
is a very accessible female pop artist who is making music that will appeal
to large numbers of music fans. There is no artistic stuff going on...no
creative content...no adventurous musical passages...just super slick calculated
modern soul pop with a big studio sound. Now some of you out there might
think that this is leading up to a major rip of this young lady's music.
But actually...taken for what it is...we found ourselves drawn to several
of the songs on Congo Square. Teena's music seems to take some of
the essential elements from 1970s soul music...and then updates them with
a twenty-first century sound. So okay...underground music snobs are going
to hate this one like Hell. But our guess is that Teena Marie won't care...because
when you're making millions of people happy, who gives a shit what
underground snobs think...? Sixteen classic pop cuts here including "The
Pressure," "Marry Me," "Congo Square," and "Soldier."
Some truly nifty cuts here. The folks at Stax still know how to pick 'em.
(Rating: 4++++)
MC Maguire - Trash of Civilizations (CD, Innova
Recordings, Progressive/improvisation)
This is an interesting album that doesn't sound like all the rest. The press
release that accompanied this CD described the music as "ethno/prog-alt
rock/jazz electronica"...and that is probably the best descriptive
word string for this music. The disc is divided into two segments. "The
Spawn of Abe," the first track, is over 28 minutes long and features
only three players: Max Christie on clarinet, Mark Rogers
on oboe, and MC Maguire on CPU. "Narcissus auf Bali," the
second track, is even longer...clocking in at almost 40 minutes...and features
the playing skills of Trevor Tureski (vibraphone), Ryan Scott
(marimba), and (again) Maguire on CPU. Both of these pieces feature plenty
of spontaneous improvisation...sorta like a cross between modern classical
and modern jazz. All kinds of trippy sounds and voices bleed in and out
of the mix...making for some rather strange and unpredictable listening.
The second track is a truly wild ride indeed. Definitely an audio collage
kind of experience here. Not recommended for folks needing and/or wanting
simple hits to dance to. Mighty strange stuff...esoteric and strangely...hypnotic.
We love it. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Dan
Mangan - Nice, Nice, Very Nice (CD,
File Under Music, Pop)
It's been a while since Dan Mangan's fans have heard a new album
from him. Postcards and Daydreaming, his last album, was well received
and sparked all kinds of praise and interest from a variety of impressive
sources. Three and a half years later...and Dan returns with the oddly-titled
Nice, Nice, Very Nice. This album is difficult to sum up in a few
words. The best overall comparison we can come up with...is to say that
Mangan's songs sometimes sound something like early John Vanderslice
mixed with some of Leonard Cohen's later recordings...but not really.
Don't think this guy is a copycat artist because he doesn't seem to be trying
to imitate anyone in particular. His music has a somewhat classic, timeless
quality that is interesting and solidly entertaining. The songs feature
mainly traditional instruments and the vocal melodies wander all over the
place. But while this isn't instantly catchy pop...Dan's music is by no
means difficult to absorb. Twelve solid tracks here including "Road
Regrets," Robots," "Fair Verona" (a particularly beautiful
track), and "Set the Sails." Oh and by the way...this guy has
an incredible voice. Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Marmoset - Tea Tornado (CD, Joyful
Noise Recordings, Pop)
Although we're not really sure exactly why, for some reason this band pushes
our clunky little buttons exactly the way we like 'em pushed. Unbelievably,
the band has now been in existence for about 14 years. But from the sound
of the songs on Tea Tornado it sounds as if Jorma Whittaker
and Dave Jablonski have by no means burned out or given up the ship.
In fact, these songs sound about as strong and vibrant as any recordings
we hear from bands just getting started on their journeys. The strange,
sparse, simple songs on this album sound something like a modern updated
take on Donovan's sound from the 1960s (the vocals are strangely
reminiscent at times)...but the hippy dippy elements are virtually nonexistent.
At times the band can also sound a bit like The Television Personalities.
Part of what this band's music work is the fact that they use only the essential
elements to record their songs. You won't hear fifty layers of overdubs
here...only the basic ingredients necessary for good pop music. Fourteen
strange pop cuts here including "Written Today," "Come With
Me," "Musing," and "I Love My Things." Recommended.
(Rating: 5++)
Marshmallow Coast - Phreak Phantasy (CD, Happy
Happy Birthday To Me, Progressive pop)
The folks in Marshmallow Coast had temporarily changed the band name
to M Coast...but have now returned to using their original moniker.
The band is the project created by Andy Gonzales in the mid-1990s.
Although we can't claim to have heard every single one of the band's releases,
our initial reaction is that Phreak Phantasy is the most accessible
album yet by this unusual underground band. This time around Gonzales seems
to keep things a bit more simple and straightforward...and the approach
seems to work in the band's favor. This is a short album...nine songs zip
by in just over half an hour. The nice upbeat sounds and simple beats are
pleasantly pleasing from start to finish. Top picks: "Nasty Dream,"
"Please Don't," and "Lonely Days." Recommended. (Rating:
5++)
Ray
Mason - Like Bugs Chewing On Paper (CD,
Captivating Music, Pop)
Ray Mason is easily one of the most prolific singer/songwriters we
have come across over the past couple of decades. And unlike other artists
who either give up or change their approach hoping for greater success,
Mason just keeps on doing what he started doing many years ago which is...simply
writing and recording good, simple, genuine pop music. Ray will soon be
approaching 60 (!?!)...so at this point he certainly is an inspiration to
folks who may have the mistaken impression that the only folks who can make
great music are kiddie boosters. Like Bugs Chewing On Paper sounds
as inspired and real as anything we've heard thus far from Mason. And Hell,
we have to make the comparison...again...that his voice and overall
style are very reminiscent of Martin Mull (who, in our opinion, should've
stuck with music instead of becoming a second-rate actor). This CD features
eleven cuts that all hit the target dead center. Our initial favorites include
"Lunch Box," "Like Bugs Chewing On Paper," "The
Beam," and "When Everything Worked." Recommended. (Rating:
5++)
The
Medders - The Medders (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The debut full-length release from The Medders who are now based
in Nashville, Tennessee. These guys write and record what might best be
described as...just plain ol' good music. You won't hear any grating
scratching going on here...no clever studio tricks crashing through the
speakers...and no thick walls of digital overdubs used to make up for a
lack of good songs. Nope, none of the usual tricks here...because when you
have good songs, you don't need tricks and gimmicks to try to deceive
the public. True, these tunes are a bit more laidback than what the casual
listener probably wants...but in a world where everyone is trying way too
hard and turning things up way too loud, in this case the subtle approach
works. Nice simple arrangements allow you to concentrate on the vocal melodies
and lyrics...both of which are superb throughout. Ten neat cuts here including
"Gunslinger," "Win Win," "Funeral Rose," and
"Terminus." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The Melloncollies - Goodbye Cruel World (CD, Somme
Music, Pop)
Pure pop that draws heavily from some of the classic pop artists from the
1980s and 1990s. The Melloncollies aren't trying to be ultra weird
or ultra hip. Instead, the folks in this band just seem intent on offering
ultra-hummable easily digestible pop from start to finish. Goodbye Cruel
World spins like a non-stop string of radio hits. The songs are all
polished to perfection and the vocals are way up front in the mix. This
band is driven by the songwriting skills of vocalist/guitarist Simon
Erani and also includes Peter Claro (guitars), Darro Sandler
(drums), Paul Briscoe (bass), and Rick Treese (keyboards).
This album is kinda like a step back in time in a way...but in another way,
these songs sound rather timeless. Twelve tracks here including "Misery,"
"Let It Rain," "Money Money Money," and "Maybe
Someday." (Rating: 4++++)
Mellowdrone - Angry Bear (Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
A lot of cool folks into underground music supported this band early on...and
no doubt many folks will remember the band's debut album entitled Box.
When that album was released this band seemed to be on a sure path to instant
success. But things happen (as they always do) and the band's career kinda
got derailed. Eventually they were freed from their contract with Columbia
(thank God)...and opted to make the smart decision to release their
music themselves. Snap forward to 2009...and we have Angry Bear...a
wonderfully refreshing album that finds the band still sounding absolutely
great. This album may have been recorded without the assistance and/or
questionable guidance of a corporate monster...but you'd never know it from
the sound quality. Bear is a rich, thick sounding CD featuring twelve
impeccably arranged tracks. This band's smart tunes are pushed to the next
level through the clever use of modern technology. The tunes are complex
and feature layers upon layers of instruments and vocals. Every track here
is a keeper...but our initial favorites include "Wherever You May Go,"
"Alone = In Your Face," "Lady In Her Underwear," and
"DMT." Smart cool stuff... (Rating: 5+)
Jeff
Merchant - City Makes No Sound (Independently
released CD, Pop)
A rather remarkable album from a rather remarkable young musician. Los Angeles,
California's Jeff Merchant makes music that sounds nothing like what
you might expect from a Los Angeles-based artist. City Makes No Sound
offers a lot to take in. Over the course of approximately an hour, Merchant
presents fifteen tracks. His songs are smooth and pensive...free-flowing
and hypnotic...substantial and thought-provoking. And man oh man, what a
voice. Jeff has a super smooth voice and he never pushes himself
beyond what each individual track calls for. From the sound quality of this
disc you would never know this is an independently released CD. The sound
quality is super smooth and resilient. Lots of folks were involved in the
recording of this album. It features no less than 23 (!?!) guest vocalists
and/or musicians. But rather than being a messy overproduction (which can
easily happen when you involve so many people), these songs come across
sounding surprisingly open and clean. You can expect to hear a lot about
Jeff Merchant in the coming years. Wonderfully reflective tunes include
"Seeing Waterfalls," "Where's Phillip," "Eggshell,"
and "The End Song." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Mott The Hoople - Hoopling - Best Of Live (CD, Angel
Air, Rock/pop)
There have been several live Mott The Hoople albums surfacing recently...but
if you want the most immediate bang for your bucks then Hoopling - Best
Of Live is probably the best place to start. The tracks on this album
were culled from live performances during the bands best period...the years
1971 to 1974. Folks who never heard or saw the band play may be surprised
at what serious rockers these guys were in their prime. Twelve cool raw
cuts here and most of the essential cuts are included: "Walkin' With
a Mountain," "One of the Boys," "Sucker" (probably
our all-time favorite Mott tune), "All the Way From Memphis,"
and, of course, "All the Young Dudes." Includes a cool 16 page
booklet full of photos and plenty of info long-time fans will get a kick
out of. More essential Mott stuff from the resourceful folks at Angel Air...
(Rating: 5+)
Music
For Money - Music For Money (CD, Erektik,
Progressive/experimental)
Sometimes looks can be deceiving. At other times names can be deceiving.
In this case, the latter is true. While you might initially think a band
called Music For Money would create sellout crap, the exact opposite
is true (i.e., this disc actually contains music that is obviously not
made for money). Music For Money is the quartet consisting of Myriam
Boucher, Pierre-Luc LeCours, Jeremie Jones, and Dominique
Lague. These folks record interesting progressive compositions that
recall some of the more artsy British bands from the 1970s...mixed with
some of the more artsy soundtrack recordings of the past few decades. Suffice
to say, this self-titled album is not a predictable simple listen. The songs
are complex, adventurous, and rely heavily on cool technological tricks.
It's hard to sum this one up in a few words. But we can say that the more
we spin this one the better it sounds. Nine fine reflective cuts including
"Redemption," "Plaisir," "Hymne a la Fuite,"
and "Novembre." Wonderfully cool and unusual stuff... (Rating:
5+)
My children.
My children.
My stupid fucking
Children.(Rating: 1)
The
Novaks - Things Fall Apart (CD, Sonic, Hard pop)
Hard rocking pop. Things Fall Apart is, for the most part, a pop
album...but the songs are driven by nice loud thick guitars. So instead
of mid-tempo wimpy pop, these folks deliver melodic pop that has a nice
kick to it. Another thing that separates this band apart from the
others are the vocals. Instead of perfect vocals over-practiced to death...the
vocals on this album have a nice, raw, spontaneous sound that is most appealing.
Nice thick guitars...loose vocals...what more could you ask for...? How
about a rhythm section that keeps things simple and straightforward. Add
that into the equation...and you have a really cool rock band with
some truly genuine ballpower. The more you spin Things Fall Apart...the
more you are likely to get into the music. Cool rockers include "Why
Wonder?", "Billy The Kid," "Worm in the Apple,"
and "Things Fall Apart." Good stuff...! (Rating: 5)
Give your child's soul
To the Devil.(Rating: 1)
Olekranon - Recycle Human Lung (Limited edition CD-R, Progressive/glitch/drone)
This is a hard album to review and/or rate...but we felt compelled to do
so, particularly considering the fact that this is a limited edition CD-R
(only 100 copies were created). Olekranon tunes could probably best
be summed up as experimental drone/glitch. Certainly not intended for a
mass audience, these seven tracks are an acquired taste...and definitely
on the artsy side. We're going to leave this one without a rating. But we
would recommend this one to folks into experimental, trippy, underground
electronic stuff. Some of the drony segments sound really good loud...
(Not Rated)
The
Oranges Band - Are Invisible (Advance
CD, Pop)
An instantly likable album from an instantly likable band. This nine track
CD features some cool, riveting underground guitar pop/rock with plenty
of twists in the music. The band is driven by the songwriting skills of
Roman Kuebler...a fellow with an interesting voice and a real flair
for writing substantial melodies. Initial standout tracks include "I
Wouldn't Worry About It" and "When Your Mask Is Your Revealing
Feature." We would have liked to have seen the actual complete release
on this one rather than an advance CD-R. As such, this one definitely
gets a thumbs up...but only a partial review because we received only part
of the actual final product... (Not Rated)
The Pinx
- Look What You Made Me Do (Independently released CD, Rock)
Hard hitting raw rock from Atlanta's The Pinx. These guys have apparently
come a long way in a very short amount of time. (As we understand it, the
band has only been in existence for about a year.) Look What You Made
Me Do is a rather direct album...presenting this power rock trio simply
and without unnecessary polish and/or overdubs. The emphasis seems to be
on the songs and--in particular--the playing...which, by the way, is excellent
from start to finish. So many bands use technology to make up for the fact
that they aren't really that proficient on their instruments. That is definitely
not the case here. The band consists of Jim O'Kane (drums), Joe
T. Giddings (guitar, bass, vocals), and Adam McIntyre (guitar,
bass, screaming). All three players are rather intense and incredible. If
you like really good guitar riffs and a band that doesn't rely on gimmicks...well
then, The Pinx just may be your new favorite band. Kickass cuts include
"The Desert," "Turn It On," "Killing Me,"
and "The Prophecy." (Rating: 5+)
Portugal
The Man - The Satanic Satanist (CD,
Equal Vision, Pop)
The fourth full-length release from Portland, Oregon's Portugal The Man.
The first thing that most people will note about this album (and that includes
us)...is the artwork. Man oh man, whoever created the incredible
foldout cardboard sleeve for this album deserves an award. There are all
these cool psychedelic images bleeding all over the place and each flap
is die-cut so that each flap folds over the other...hell, you'll just have
to see it to believe it. So coooooool. The music inside isn't nearly
as strange as the cover might indicate. Instead, The Satanic Satanist
is a surprisingly accessible album full of modern radio-friendly (and download
friendly) pop. This is a super polished release with tons and tons of overdubs.
In some cases it seems as if some of these songs might have come across
better with simple arrangements, but on other tracks the complex approach
works perfectly. Thirty-five minutes of music, eleven tracks. Our favorite
cuts include "People Say," "Lovers In Love," "The
Woods," and "Let You Down." Good solid stuff. (Rating: 4++++)
The
Puddle Parade - Origami (CD, Morctapes, Pop)
Great band name here. To be honest, we're not sure if this release would've
caught our attention if it weren't for the fact that it was released by
the tiny-yet-influential Belgian label Morc. But because we've heard interesting
stuff from this label in the past, we paid particular attention to what
might otherwise have come across as an obtuse home-recorded and produced
project. The packaging on this one is a bit misleading. The CD (not
a CD-R) is packaged in a thin cardboard sleeve with a paper strip containing
artwork and info taped (?) around the sleeve. So if you're one of
those folks who has to have fancy digipak sleeves, you may be confused.
But enough about labels and sleeves...onto the music. The Puddle Parade
is the solo project created by Germany's Ellen Evers. Her music reminds
us in many ways of Sweden's Cake On Cake mainly because the music
is extremely sparse and subtle. Actually the music on this disc makes Cake
On Cake sound very complex and produced. Evers leaves her songs extremely
stark and naked...adding very few layers and/or textures in the recording
process. Her world is simple yet peculiar...and her approach is a far cry
from the average generic twenty-first century pop musician. Strangely calming
cuts include "Lullabye," "I Have a New Friend," and
"All You Are." Interesting... (Rating: 5)
Benjamin
r - The Other Side of Nowhere (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Imagine a talented singer/songwriter/producer with a voice that sounds something
like Emitt Rhodes and whose songs sound slightly similar to Ric
Ocasek...and you might begin to have an idea of what Benjamin r
(note that he does not capitalize the "r") sounds like.
Although Benjamin has worked with many well-known artists (including Puddle
of Mudd, Jewel, and Eagle Eye Cherry), not surprisingly
he seems more focused on making his own music rather than producing others.
The Other Side of Nowhere ought to help get the word out to the world
about this guy's music...because he's super talented and his songs are surprisingly
catchy and accessible. And not in a bad, crappy, sellable way either. Although
just about every track on this album sounds radio-friendly, these songs
are solid and good. Nice slick mid-tempo pop/rockers include "Quit,"
"History," "Time Is Running Out," and "Letters."
(Rating: 4+++++)
Rainy Day Saints - Reflected (CD, Get
Hip, Pop)
The third full-length release from Cleveland, Ohio's Rainy Day Saints.
Reflected is a mighty big mixed bag of treats. On this album, these
guys present eighteen songs that range from straightforward pop to semi-psychedelia
to progressive and even folky pop. The band is somewhat chameleon-like.
At times they sound like Squeeze...at other times they sound like
The Move or even The Beatles...while at other times the music
reminds us of pure popsters like The Shoes. So many pop bands have
one style or sound and drive it into the ground over the course of an album.
This is definitely not the case here. There's a lot to take in...even
an interesting cover of Kraftwerk's "The Hall of Mirrors"
(?!). It is surprising--given the varied sounds here--that this album comes
across sounding so cohesive. Plenty of cool guitars and nifty vocals. Our
favorite cuts include "This Isn't Real," "Sally Go Round,"
"Underwater Again," "Holding On," and "Between
Tomorrow and Time." Fun stuff. (Rating: 5)
Rascal Flatts (Bloated artificial generic crap pop for the masses)
Who could anyone...anyone...like this pathetic bullshit...?
(Rating: 1)
Boh
Runga - Right Here (CD, CRS,
Pop)
Slick, melodic, professional pop. We're as sure as power punch that such
a descriptive term will turn lots of underground fans off. So if lots of
professional polish turns you off, then you might as well skip to the next
review. But if, however, you can listen to and consume music on a variety
of different levels...you may very well find that there's a lot to like
in the music of Boh Runga. Sure, her songs do sound a lot
like many other artists. But this young lady has a voice that is unmistakably
cool and absorbing. And if you listen to her tunes several times, you may
very well find yourself humming them in your sleep. At times Boh's voice
reminds us of Kate Bush very early in her career. At other times...she
just comes across like a very focused cool performer who has something interesting
to say. Eleven tracks here...and they're all keepers. Top picks: "Starfish
Sleeping," "Airwave," and "This Old Heart." Really
nice sounding stuff. (Rating: 5)
Rusted
Root - Stereo Rodeo (CD, Adrenaline,
Pop/rock)
Formed in the early 1990s, the folks in Rusted Root show no signs
of burning out or letting up. Even though the band has toured themselves
silly and released several popular albums, their sound is still as fresh
and vital sounding as when they released their debut album (Cruel Son)
in 1992. There's no doubt Stereo Rodeo will please the band's fans...as
well as anyone else fortunate enough to be turned onto the album. This CD
has a nice, thick, polished sound and yet it doesn't have that canned sound
that ruins so many twenty-first century releases. The main focal point of
this band's music are Michael Glabicki's vocals. The guy has a nice,
masculine, slightly rough voice that works perfectly for the style of music
he writes. These bluesy, catchy pop/rock tunes are based upon solid rhythms...and
the band obviously spent plenty of time getting the arrangements just
right. The only cut that confuses us is "Suspicious Minds."
Not that the cover version isn't good...but we just would have preferred
to have heard another of the band's originals in its place. Eleven
cool tracks here including "Dance In The Middle," "Bad Son,"
"Driving Two," and "Garbage Man." Nice solid stuff.
(Rating: 5)
Richard Sanderson and Mark
Spybey - The Setland L.P. (CD-R / Download,
Lens, Progressive/experimental)
Some astute readers out there may be saying, "Hey...I thought you
guys didn't review CD-Rs...!" While that may be true when there
are actually real, legitimate copies to be consumed (we just hate advance
CD-Rs)...things are a bit different in this particular case. You see,
The Setland L.P. is actually only being offered as a download...yet
the record company had the foresight/insight to send out CD-Rs to snotty
little reviewers like us who refuse to review downloads. Okay, so enough
about policy issues already (?!). This release collects material recorded
by Richard Sanderson and Mark Spybey years before each of
their respective careers really took off. Anyone familiar with these artists
probably knows to expect the unexpected. And that's just what you get here.
This album contains five lengthy experimental tracks with limited commercial
appeal...although some of this music is more accessible than you might think.
Lots of found sounds and/or progressive collage instrumentation. There may...or
may not be...a second release featuring more unreleased tracks. Weird cuts
include "Watch," "Power Cut," and "Cans."
(Rating: 4++++)
Beat your leaf.
Beat your grief.
Beat your greeter.
Beat your heater.
Beat your sawgy
Little dawgy.(Rating: 1)
Ember
Schrag - A Cruel, Cruel Woman (CD, Lone Prairie, Folky pop)
The debut album from Ember Schrag. A Cruel, Cruel Woman features
nice, smooth, organic folk/pop tunes that shed a spotlight on Schrag's inviting
vocals. All ten tracks are originals...and Ember comes up with some real
winners here. Her songs are smooth and mostly subdued. Unlike many modern
artists who try way too hard to sound unique or different, Schrag seems
content to just let the music flow from her veins. In a world full of throwaway
artists, this young lady comes across sounding like the real thing.
Cool inspired cuts include "Cupid's Bloom," "Dark Lion Lover,"
"Sad, Sad Song," and "Cruel Woman Blues." Comes packaged
in a nice foldout cardboard sleeve and includes a lyric sheet. (Rating:
5)
Share
- Slumping In Your Murals (CD, Forward
Music Group, Progressive pop)
Really incredible stuff. This is the fourth album from New Brunswick,
Canada's Share...and it serves as our introduction to the band's
music. After spinning this l'il sucker a few times, we initially felt like
the songs sounded a bit like mid-period Lilys. But then we began
to hear other elements in the tunes that reminded us of The Hang Ups...and
even Pink Floyd at times. To try and sum up the overall sound...
The guys in Share play highly melodic unpredictable progressive pop with
smart chord progressions and inventive arrangements. The songs are somewhat
artsy...but after you hear them a few times they tend to stick in your head
like super glue. A lot of time and positive energy was obviously spent recording
these tracks. They have just the right amount of polish...and just enough
overdubs to give the tunes a nice thick sound without coming across sounding
overproduced. To sum things up...we are totally blown away by this
one. Superbly executed tracks include "Date and Time," "Horse
and Rider," "Awake at Dawn," and "Lights Overhead."
Beautiful stuff. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Sit down for what
You believe in.(Rating: 1)
Boris
Skalsky - First Songs (Independently
released CD-R, Soft pop)
Although this disc is entitled First Songs, these are not the first
songs presented by Boris Skalsky. Boris was previously in the bands
Phaser and Dead Heart Boom, the latter of which made quite
a dent in certain underground cliques of fans. Skalsky recently made the
decision to go solo and strip down his sound. The result is First Songs...an
album of sparse folky/pop tunes that recall early material from such classic
artists as Bob Dylan and Donovan. Boris recorded these songs
on the first take and only added overdubs sparingly. As a result, the eight
songs on this EP have a cool spontaneous sound and feel that is sadly missing
in much twenty-first century pop. We liked Dead Heart Bloom...but we like
Skalsky's new subtle approach much more. Beautifully rewarding cuts include
"Bright Eyes Gone," "A Love To Remember," "It's
a Truth," and "Why Do I Feel." True, real, genuinely rewarding
stuff. The vocals are killer. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Slaraffenland - We're On Your Side (Advance CD-R, Progressive pop/rock)
There's already a strong buzz on the streets of the United States about
this band. Denmark's Slaraffenland write and record music that is
strangely unpredictable yet accessible and melodic. We're On Your Side
will no doubt fan the existing flames even more. This ten track album features
intelligent progressive pop with a difference. And the band's layered vocals
really hit the mark this time around. This album will be simultaneously
released on CD and vinyl in September 2009. We would have liked to have
seen the actual complete release on this one rather than an advance CD-R.
As such, this one definitely gets a thumbs up...but only a partial
review because we received only part of the actual final product... (Not
Rated)
Slow Claw - Grandfather Clocks (Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
Recorded in the unlikely city of Charleston, South Carolina, Grandfather
Clocks presents some damn fine guitar-driven pop/rock tunes. Our favorite
track is the opener. "Miss Lady Lately" is one of those jarring,
hard-hitting guitar rock tunes that you just have to hear over and over
and over again. Killer loud guitars combine with cool yelpy vocals
to create a totally cool vibe. The guys in Slow Claw really have
a hit on their hands with this one. The rest of the album never quite matches
the high of the first track...but that doesn't mean there aren't some more
killer gems here. The majority of the remainder of the album is much more
subdued, moody, and soft. Other particular standout tracks include "Hamilton
Hotel," "Everybody," and "Live Fire Exercise."
(Rating: 4++++)
Amy
Speace - The Killer In Me (CD, Wildflower, Pop)
The second full-length release from New York's Amy Speace. The
Killer In Me was mainly influenced by Amy's feelings of frustration
after her ten year marriage ended. It's strange how bad situations can sometimes
bring out the best songs inside a person's soul. This twelve song album
finds Amy sounding mighty fine and real. Instead of blowing out generic
pop nuggets, she bares her soul and allows her listeners to get to know
her as a person. And that is probably what makes this album come across
sounding so warm and genuine. Produced by James Mastro (of The
Bongos), Killer has a nice thick polished sound and yet never
comes across sounding phony or overproduced. Speace's lyrics and vocals
are the centerpiece of these songs...and she does an excellent job of keeping
things interesting from start to finish. Nice mid-tempo smooth pop cuts
include "Dog Days," "Blue Horizon," "Would I Lie,"
and "Piece By Piece." (Rating: 5)
PCP builds strong
Bones.(Rating: 1)
Sugarplum
Fairies - Chinese Leftovers (CD, Starfish,
Pop)
The recent success of The Bird and The Bee may very well have set
the stage for the future success of Los Angeles, California's Sugarplum
Fairies (Bird and The Bee bass player Gus Seyffert even plays
on this album). While the two bands have a sound that is somewhat similar,
there are some obvious differences as well. Whereas The Bird and The Bee
songs are obviously commercial, Sugarplum Fairies tunes are less obvious
and a bit more moody (sometimes sounding a bit like Ivy). Nevertheless,
since we last heard from this band they have managed to accomplish a lot.
Various hefty sources have begun covering their music and a song was even
featured on the television show Grey's Anatomy. Chinese Leftovers
finds Silvia Ryder and Ben Bohm (the two main individuals
in the band) in fine form. The songs are, once again, strong and resilient...and
the nice slick sound suits the band well. This eleven song album is bound
to connect with the band's fans as well as bring in legions more. Cool,
smooth tracks include "A Story, " "Head or Tail," "Mercy,"
and "Polaroid." Good stuff. (Rating: 5)
10 Ft. Ganja Plant - Bush Rock (CD, ROIR,
Reggae)
Reggae music saw a major resurgence in the latter half of the twentieth
century. Bob Marley and other similar artists cleaned up the music
just enough to suit the ears of Americans...and a new era of reggae music
was born. For many years reggae fans seemed to be everywhere and then...just
like with Hare Krishnas...they seemed to virtually disappear into thin air,
never to be seen again. Okay, that's far too extreme because there are plenty
of reggae bands and fans still around...and you do still see the occasional
guy in dreadlocks hanging around on the streets dressed in appropriate attire.
Fortunately for the world of reggae and for people in general, the folks
in 10 Ft. Ganja Plant are still proudly carrying the torch...and
from the sounds they create, you would never know reggae has become somewhat
scarce here in these United States. On Bush Rock the band includes
members of John Brown's Body and also features vocals by Kyle
McDonald of Slightly Stoopid. The eleven cool tracks on this
album will most certainly start your head nodding and make you want to grab
hold of some mellow reefer. Yah mon...diss dah REEL TING.
Top picks: "Machete Strike," "Bush Rock," "The
Cyclops." (Rating: 5)
Troum - Eald-Ge-Streon (Double CD, Beta-lactam
Ring, Progressive)
Yet another "difficult to review" release from the world's most
obtuse music label...Beta-lactam Ring. For folks unfamiliar with this label,
the folks involved release peculiar and obscure music by completely peculiar
and obscure artists. Hardly ever do the releases have any commercial appeal
at all. Over the past couple of decades, the word "drone" has
managed to pop up more and more in the world of music. So many artists are
said to have "drone-like qualities" in their music...shoegazer
bands are described as "drone pop"...and drone is used to describe
any number of artists whose music has strangely distant hypnotic qualities.
But despite this, there are very few true drone artists on the planet...artists
whose music is purely drone with no added filler. This is most definitely
the category in which the guys in Troum are treading. The band is
the German duo consisting of Stefan Knappe and Martin Gitschel...and
their music practically defines the word drone. There are no guitars causing
the music to tread into pop or rock territory...no easily discernible melodies
that might cause it to be described as progressive...and no vocals to latch
onto. Nothing but pure landscape drones of epic proportion here. The higher
the volume...the more intense the drones become. The album consists of seven
lengthy segments, each of which has its own atmospheric qualities. Our favorite
is probably the fifth track because of its odd church-like ambient sounds...very
soothing and strangely spooky. Listeners/buyers should be aware of the fact
that the first 500 copies of this release include a second bonus disc that
contains a single track...but it's a long one (33:30). The bonus disc makes
the early pressings worth seeking out. In the world of drone, these guys
are creating some of the best stuff around. Eald-Ge-Streon most definitely
exists in a world of its own. Recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Volcano The Bear / La STPO - The Shy Volcanic Society At The Bear And Bird Parade
(CD, Beta-lactam Ring, Progressive)
With so many CD releases it is easy to sum up the sounds in a few sentences.
But when the band is Volcano The Bear...we were prepared in advance
to spin the album several times before coming to any concrete conclusions.
To make matters more time consuming, this particular is a split release
that also includes tracks by the band La STPO (full name La Societe
des Timides a la parade des Oiseaux--an act we were previously unfamiliar
with). So...let's take this one step at a time. The first five tracks here
are by Volcano The Bear. If you've never heard this band before, we unfortunately
are not going to be able to give a very comforting easy overall description.
The band creates music that is non-traditional to say the least. These five
tracks are more like experimental sound pieces. Not total noise excursions...but
music that is most certainly unpredictable and nonstandard. Sort of eerie
and sparse...as well as distant and strange. Okay, now that you are probably
totally confused by VTB...next comes La STPO for the final four tracks.
We figured that any band sharing space on a CD with VTB would have to be
"out there"...and we were right. The band is much more focused
on vocals than VTB...but the vocals are so abstract and far out that most
folks wouldn't even consider this singing (at least not in the traditional
sense). La STPO vocals are more like Indians chanting and grunting to tribal
beats. At some points the band is rather restrained...while at other times
things get rather tense and nervous. This is a wildly experimental CD so
conventional music fans should be forewarned. If you don't like music on
the edge, you will probably hate this. Folks on a quest for the curious
and bizarre...wild find this highly enlightening and strange... (Rating:
5++)
Rocky Tippit - Young & Pretty (CD, Red
Boot Music, Pop)
This guy is the real thing. No schmaltzy image here...no hiding behind
technology...no cute song titles...no ultra-hip references in the lyrics...
Nope, none of that crap. Rocky Tippit plays old school pop/rock without
all the trappings. Young & Pretty presents twelve cool tracks
that combine elements from rock, pop, blues, and country. These recordings
are simple and stripped down...which works perfectly because it allows you
to concentrate on Tippit's ultimately authentic voice. Our guess is that
this music could easily appeal to a wide range of listeners. There are elements
of 1950s rock, 1960s pop, 1970s rock, 1980s radio pop, and 1990s hard rock
in Rocky's music. And hell, you've gotta love that cool, slinky, loose sounding
guitar...way, way cool. All the tracks kick...but our initial favorites
include "Burn," "Raw," "Never," and "White
Cadillac." Groovy shit...! (Rating: 5+)
Tygers of Pan Tang - Animal Instinct X 2 (CD + DVD, Angel
Air, Rock)
Derivative, cliched, egotistical, predictable...and a whole HELL
of a lot of fun (!). The guys in Tygers of Pan Tang got their start
in the late 1970s...and they're still playing the kind of raw, rocking music
that sparked their career. Anyone who ever loved 1970s icons like Deep
Purple and Led Zeppelin will undoubtedly find a lot to love here.
Animal Instinct CD features eleven hard rocking tracks plus five
bonus cuts. These guys play simple, straight-from-the-hip bluesy rock that
sounds something like a young Robert Plant fronting the previously-mentioned
Deep Purple. Plenty of vocal wailing and crafty lead guitars here...all
fueled by a rhythm section that's bound to blow minds. Just as impressive
as the audio CD is the DVD of the band in concert. The majority of the disc
was recorded live from Berlin Studios...but there's also plenty of bonus
footage as well. These guys are treading in familiar territory that fans
of classic rock will absolutely love. Kickass rockers include "Cry
Sweet Freedom," "Devils Find a Fool," "Cruisin,"
and "Dark Rider." This, the 300th release from Angel Air...is
a direct HIT. (Rating: 5+)
The
Ugly Truth - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music Composed by Aaron Zigman (CD, Lakeshore, Soundtrack)
The new film The Ugly Truth ought to be a hit with all the showbiz
types out there...because it deals with two showbiz types falling in love
and experiencing the problems that result. The two main characters are played
by Katherine Heigl and Gerard Butler. The man who composed
the music for the film is Aaron Zigman...a man you may not recognize
by name, but whose music you have undoubtedly heard before. Zigman has produced
and arranged lots of superstar artists such as Aretha Franklin, Tina
Turner, Chicago, Carly Simon, the Pointer Sisters,
and Huey Lewis...and that's just the beginning. In 2002 Aaron
started recording music for films. If the soundtrack to The Ugly Truth
is an indication, this is where this man's real talents may lie. This 35-track
CD features impeccably arranged instrumentals that will no doubt fit in
seamlessly with storyline of this movie. Nice smooth flowing compositions
include "Flick the Bean," "Tease," "Right This
Way," and "Your Replacement." (Rating: 5)
Rachelle
van Zanten - Where Your Garden Grows
(CD, RVZ, Pop)
We just can't seem to get our fill of Canadian music these days...probably
because there now seems to be an overabundance of incredibly talented musicians
in Canada (many of whom put American artists and/or bands to shame). Rachelle
van Zanten plays a somewhat roots-inspired, bluesy style of pop that
most listeners probably associate with male recording artists. She also
plays slide guitar...something most ladies usually do not attempt. Produced
by Jody Baker, van Zanten's sophomore album is chock full of substantial
tunes. Rachelle has a wonderfully understated vocal style. Instead of pushing
herself, she seems to just sing and let her instincts tell her what to do.
Where Your Garden Grows features ten cool reflective tracks including
"Showerhead," "Windmill Hill," "Your Name"
(our favorite...features a really beautiful melody), and "Changing
In Time." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Violet Vector and the Lovely
Lovelies - EP II (CD EP, Color
Wheel, Progressive pop)
Because of the volume of material we receive lately, we rarely review EPs...and
we only do so when a band has created something special. Obviously Violet
Vector and the Lovely Lovelies have done just that or you wouldn't be
reading this. This five-piece band is based in Chapel Hill, North
Carolina...and they have a sound that seems heavily influenced by 1960s
pop psychedelia. What initially makes this band stand out...is that we rarely
hear psychedelic pop bands with a female vocalist. Not sure why this is
so...? In any event, these folks write hummable upbeat pop music that features
some really cool retrospective arrangements. And the odd vocals are just
great...they remind us a bit of the vastly underrecognized group The
G.T.O.'s. Only sixteen and a half minutes of music here...but all the
tunes are keepers. Our initial favorites are "Grass is Glowing"
and "Technicolor Electric." Groovy and hip (!). (Rating:
5+)
Monty Warren - Trailer Park Angel
(CD, Doublenaught,
Pop/rock)
If you're getting sick to death of one pretentious artist after another
(most of who have a hidden agenda, i.e., a desire for wealth and/or success)...Monty
Warren may very well be a blast of fresh air. Trailer Park Angel
is an album that focuses first and foremost on songs. And there are
plenty of good songs here. Warren writes straight-from-the-hip guitar-based
pop/rock tunes that are simple and straightforward. And instead of burying
his songs underneath too many layers of crap, he keeps his arrangements
rather sparse and simple. In a way, some of these tracks sound like some
of The Kinks' material from the 1970s (even the vocals are somewhat
similar at times). Plenty of smooth hummable cuts here including "Lonely
Girl," "Trailer Park Angel," "Shoot To Kill," and
"Kill A Love." Cool and inviting stuff... (Rating: 5)
Scott
Warren - Quick Fix Bandage (Independently
released CD, Pop)
You would never know from the cover art that Quick Fix Bandage is
a cool little album full of inviting cool free-flowing pop tunes. This CD
features very simple artwork and virtually no information that would give
you a clue as to what to expect from the music inside. Scott Warren
is probably better known as a member of the band Signal Hill Transmission.
This, his debut full-length solo album, features super catchy smooth, accessible
mid-tempo pop. Warren writes excellent songs...and then layers them with
just the right amount of cushy arrangements and backing vocals to give them
a nice full sound. The result...is an album that rings true from start to
finish. The only thing that confuses us is the inclusion of a cover tune
"Sister Golden Hair." It's not a bad cover...but considering Warren's
own tunes are so much better, we can't imagine why he would have wanted
to include this...? In any event, this album features killer material that
is bound to please just about any fan of super smooth catchy pop. Top picks:
"Before You Say Goodbye," "Along For the Ride," "Speed
of Sound," and "Both of Us Know." (Rating: 5)
Watts
Ensemble - Crime & Time (CD, Kill Shaman, Progressive)
This release seems to mark somewhat of a departure for the Kill Shaman label.
Instead of pop and/or rock, the folks in Watts Ensemble deliver progressive
instrumentals that are a far cry from generic modern day pop/rock bands.
The ensemble was created by drummer Brian Watson who wanted to write
music and direct a group of musicians even though he doesn't write and/or
play music (other than drums, of course). Inspired by crime jazz and soundtrack
music from the 1950s to the 1970s, Crime & Time is an interesting
idea that crystallized well. The tracks on this album do, indeed, sound
as if they could be used in a crime soundtrack. The nine compositions on
this album are surprisingly complex and detailed and convey a wide range
of emotions. This is a big, big, BIG ensemble consisting not only
of the original seventeen (!) players...but an additional seven players
as well. There's a lot going on here...but, surprisingly, things don't come
across sounding overly busy or overproduced. Crime & Time is
a different sort of album from a different place and time. Intriguing cuts
include "Good Morning," "Funny Cigarettes," and "Fall."
(Rating: 5)
The
Waylons - Out of Love (CD EP, Pop)
One of the greatest and, as of yet, virtually unknown bands on the planet.
The guys in The Waylons play music that is melodic, real, and incredibly
unpretentious. Instead of playing pop tunes that fit into any specific genre,
these guys just play straightforward soft pop that comes straight from the
heart. The last album blew us away...and Out of Love has the exact
same effect. Seven restrained yet effective smart tracks here. We would
have liked to have seen the actual complete release on this one rather than
an advance CD-R. As such, this one definitely gets a thumbs up...but
only a partial review because we received only part of the actual final
product... (Not Rated)
White - White (CD, Open
Note, Progressive)
A word of warning. This is one of those releases that fits into the confusing
and difficult category so...if you want simple, easy pop that is easy
to digest...you might as well know that you probably won't be turned
on by Beijing, China's White. The band is the duo consisting of Shenggy
(Korg MS-20, samplers, tape manipulation, drums, percussion, vocals) and
Shou Wang (guitar, organ, theremin, pedals, vocals). Shenggy and
Wang are taking an obviously uncommercial approach to music. By avoiding
predictable song formats, they manage to write and record strangely perplexing
compositions that sound very little like other modern recording artists.
Their music combines elements from pop and experimental music with stuff
that sounds as if they could have been inspired by modern classical artists
from the twenty-first century. Even after spinning this self-titled album
a dozen times or more...we're still not quite sure what to make of
it. But for some reason, we just keep coming back for more. Strange perplexing
cuts include "Space Decay," "Conch Crunch," "Train
Song," and "Traffic Report." Interesting music from the deep
end of the pool. (Rating: 5+)
Sissy
Wish - Beauties Never Die (CD, Afternoon, Pop)
Some of you out there may be thinking that a sissy wish is what goes
through an urban homosexual's mind when he's sitting in the stall of a public
lavatory. But that would be incorrect...because Sissy Wish is actually
an intriguing young Norwegian lady whose real name is Siri Walberg.
Beauties Never Die is Walberg's third album. It's a collection of
super melodic slick pop ditties that was produced by Jorgen Traen.
In more ways than one, Siri's music recalls the music of 1980s electro-popsters
Missing Persons. Her voice is very reminiscent of Dale Bozzio...except
minus that peculiar hiccup-y sound. What impresses us most about this album
is the fact that the tunes get better the more familiar they become. Instead
of throwaway pop, Walberg writes and records smart songs that--although
accessible and commercial--have strangely inviting qualities that make them
hold up over time. Nice smooth hummable cuts include "Float,"
"Beauties Never Die" (a really beautiful tune), and "Music
on the Radio." Nice stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Year
One - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by Theodore Shapiro (CD, Lakeshore, Soundtrack)
Okay, so we're going to admit right off the bat that we aren't big fans
of caveman films. And we're even less interested and/or impressed with the
questionable talents of actor Jack Black (who has never made us laugh...not
even once). Thus, we probably aren't going to be interested in seeing this
film. So let's just consider the music unto itself. The soundtrack for Year
One was created/composed by Theodore Shapiro who has composed
music for a wild variety of other films including (but not limited to) Marley
& Me, Tropic Thunder, Fun With Dick and Jane, The
Devil Wears Prada, and Blades of Glory. Big polished films require
a big polished sound...and this is where Shapiro excels. Working with the
members of the Hollywood Studio Symphony Orchestra, Shapiro has managed
to come up with an intriguing collection of compositions for this film.
And fortunately, this album is consistent because it does not include
one or two "hit" songs messing with the continuity. As one might
expect for a caveman soundtrack, there are some native percussion segments...but
they are, for the most part, somewhat subtle and actually merge with the
classical sound quite well. The tracks are, for the most part, short. Shapiro
manages to cram in 24 tracks in the space of approximately 45 minutes (!).
Cool slick symphonic pieces include "Hunters & Gatherers,"
"Yak Attack," "Welcome to Sodom," and "Zed to the
Rescue." (Rating: 5)
YesMisterBloodVessel - Racing the Relapse (Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
A really cool and interesting independently released album. The first track
on Racing the Relapse sounds very much like a stripped down rock
tune that could've been recorded by Nine Inch Nails. But if you think
the confusingly-titled YesMisterBloodVessel is just another Trent
Reznor copycat/wannabe band...think again. Christian Peppas,
the man behind the music, isn't content to be pigeonholed by creating one
sound or style of music. As such, Racing the Relapse contains plenty
of surprises. Some of the tracks are pop/rock...while others veer into moody
experimental territory. Some of the songs are rather straightforward and
accessible...while others are probably too obtuse for the casual listener.
Relapse is a nice, free-flowing progressive album that gets better
the more you spin it. What is interesting is that...with a bit of tweaking...we
feel that Christian's music could easily appeal to a very wide audience.
Cool underground cuts include "Victim," "Skeleton Czar,"
"Relativity," and "Happiness for a Day." (Rating: 5)
A
A Beautiful Curse - As it should be
Alchemist - Chemical warfare
Verden Allen - My masochistic side
Anthem In - The cloudbusting EP
Arctic Sleep - Abysmal lullabies
Assy Fish-Bass - Bass in my ass
Atsiaktonkie - Four wolves prophecy
Jacob Augustine - Harmonia
B
Bad Veins - Bad Veins
Black Drumset - Black Drumset
Bonnington Truce - Bonnington Truce
Boy Without God - Your body is your soul
Boz - Karma knows...
Brokencyde - I'm not a fan but the kids like it!
Bronze Radio Return - Old time speaker
Criag Buhler - Skykomish
Buskin & Batteau - Red shoes and golden hearts
C
Cailyn/Dani - True lies and other fairy tales
Choo Choo La Rouge - Black clouds
Circle of Fate - Back to life
The City and Skyway - Everything looks worse in black and white
Color Turning - Good hands bad blood
Copilots - Escape through the trees
Estrella Cristina - This is life
D
Kim Divine - Square one
Jason Dove - Illegal activities
E
Brenda Earle - Songs for a new day
Early Hours - Falling elevators EP
Pauline Edwards - There comes a time
Eyes Set To Kill - The world outside
F
Fonnie Fauss - New songs for the old frontier volume 1
Dodd Ferrelle - Lonely parades
Dale Frane - 401K: Madness, greed and escape
Funny People - Original motion picture soundtrack
G
Gala - Tough love
Giving Tree Band - Great possessions
Alex Gomez - Love sex & drugs
Nicki Gonzalez - Moron love
Gospel Gossip - Dreamland
Grand Hallway - Promenade
Grass - Rogue waves
Groove Kings - Blood red
H
Hadley, Norman & Keeble - An evening of gold
Ben Cooley Hall - Owning up to a life
Trevor Hall - Trevor Hall
Hallelujah The Hills - Colonial drones (defective CD-R)
Don Harvey - A dance in red
Bill Hart - This is why
HB3 - The veldt
Fritz Helder and the Phantoms - Greatest hits
Hi-Nobles - Shake!
Heavy Hometown - Action figures
Fritz Helder and the Phantoms - Lagerfeld lady remixes 1
Hi-Nobles - Shake!
Honeydogs - Sunshine committee
Hunters, Run! - EP2
I
Imagine That - The Album
Iron Horse - A boy named blue: The bluegrass tribute to the Goo Goo Dolls
The Iveys - The Iveys
J
Jaded Son - Presents machinery of the stars
Jeffrey James & The Haul - Ride the wind carnival
Roy Jay - Lucky guy
JK Rockets - Songs from the cradle of rock 'n' roll
Jonesin - Hi, we're Jonesin
K
Kava Kava - Forwards
Kaleo Futuristo - The future is now!
Keith Harbour Wolves - Dead calm horizon
Kestrels - Primary colours
Kissing Cousins - Pillar of salt
Chris Knight - Trailer II
Greg Koons and the Misbegotten - Welcome to the nowhere motel
L
Steeuart Liebig/The Mentones - Angel city dust
Little Tybee - I wonder which house the fish will live in
Jennifer Logue - The pretty EP
Los Explosives - Los Explosives
M
Lara MacMillan - Miss Mercury
Donald Malloy - Spirituality
Adam Marsland - Go west
Ronda Matson - Truth be told
Megafaun - Gather, form, & fly
Menage a Twang - Menage a Twang
Kono Michi - 9 death haiku
Mike Middleton - Waxing gibbons
Mile Marker Zero - Mile Marker Zero
Misophone - I sit at open windows
Corbin Murdoch & The Nautical Miles - Wartime lovesong
Mystery of Two - Mystery of Two
N
Jeremy Nail & The Incidents - Jeremy Nail & The Incidents
National Rifle - Man full of trouble
O
John O'Mara - Five year missionas
Orchid of the Living - Orchid of the Living
OS Haxixins - OS Haxixins
Over The Hill - Looking for a spark
P
People - The chiche
David Perry - Hot Rod Pinups
Pet Ghost Project - Idiot brain / genius heart
Pill Hill Radio - Pill Hill Radio
Ana Popovic - Blind for love
Pride Parade - Dose
Pretty Faces - Another sound
Public Good - No. 1
Puffy Dead Stuff - Dead stuff smells great
Q
Quixote - Quixote
R
Curt Ramm, Dan Moretti, Bill Cunliffe - Foundations
Ray Mann Three - Opa opa EP
Rebel Inc. - Rebel Inc.
Rent To Own - Spellbound
Requiem For Delinquency - Hobs end
RHINOCEroses - We is shore dedicated
John Robert - Meant to be
S
757s - Freeway surrender
76 Degrees West Band - 76 Degrees West Band
Lalo Schifrin - SkyRiders
Shakyfoot - Down on the rain
Rich Shea - Shelter valley blues
Sierra Alpha -Sierra Alpha EP
Silveroot - Big difference
Sipo - Year of the white rose
Skiggy Rapz - Bang to the boogie EP
David R. Smith - Somewhere between here and now
Sorely Trying Days - Survival mode
Amy Speace - The killer in me
Luke Stone - Somethin's gotta give
Super 400 - Sweet fist
Nathanuel Sutton - Starlite
Swamphouse - The fade EP
T
Aly Tadros - Things worth keeping
Carley Tanchon - Pendot
Textile Orchestra - For the boss
Tim Be Told - From the inside
Tin Star - Bettie Lane
TPF! - Es slassh tee
Twin Berlin - Twin single
U
Unit Breed - Always distance the lonely
V
Various Artists - Shark Batter introduces sounds from the scottish underground
Various Artists - Prids Tribute: Connect the dots (CD-R)
Chris Velan - Solidago
Mia Vermillion - Alone together with the blues
W
Kat Walker - Jazz skat gumbo
Sean Walsh and the National Reserve - Homesick
War Tapes - The continental divide
Wedding Soundtrack - Na na na ro
We'll Go Machete - We'll Go Machete
The Wind Whistles - Animals are people too
Wonderbugg - Transgraduate
Woodward - Woodward
X
X Sports the Splorch - Trotty trot trot
Y
Yes Pleases - From whence it came
Michael Yonkers - With the blind shake
You Are Home - Phoneyhome
Z