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Reviews from 
May 2009
RATING SYSTEM:
= UNBELIEVABLY INCREDIBLE
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
Aeroplane
Pageant - Even the Kids Don't Believe Me.
(Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
The last time we heard from Aeroplane Pageant was way back in May
of 2007 when the band's album Wave to the Moon was a Top Pick here
in babysueland. The band consists of Brian Kelly (vocals,
guitar), Chris Aguis (percussion, guitar, keys), Mike Areephituk
(guitar, keys), Tim Watson (bass, vocals), and Nisi Jacobs
(live visuals). Even the Kids Don't Believe Me. was cut from the
same fabric as the band's last album. Aeroplane Pageant tunes are relatively
smooth and accessible and yet...we have the hardest time trying to come
up with comparisons and/or possible influences. It isn't that the music
is all that different (the tracks are, for the most part, very smooth and
hummable)...it's just that the songs don't really sound much like any other
band that comes to mind. The main obvious trademark of the band's sound
is vocalist Brian Kelly...a fellow who has a nice warm voice with
strange warbly qualities. The more we spin this album the more we enjoy
it. Eleven cuts including "Memory Begins Elsewhere," "Even
the Kids Don't Believe Me," and "After the Car Crash." Neat
mentally absorbing stuff... (Rating: 5+)
Almost
Charlie - The Plural of Yes (CD, Words On Music, Pop)
At first we thought this was an American band that just happened to sound
very British. But upon reading the accompanying press release, we were surprised
to find that this very British sounding band is actually based in Berlin,
Germany (?!?). To make things even more confusing, the songs on The
Plural of Yes sound very much like one of the great underrated American
bands from the 1980s and 1990s...Redd Kross. Yup, the folks in Almost
Charlie had us guessing on a variety of fronts...and that probably says
something about their approach to music, because we can usually figure out
just about everything a specific band is up to on the very first spin. Making
things even more interesting is the fact that despite the fact that they
make music together, the two men who wrote these songs have never actually
met in person. Almost Charlie tunes are written by Dirk Homuth (the
man who makes the music) and Charlie Mason (the man who writes the
lyrics). There's a lot of depth to the pop tunes on Plural of Yes.
Fans of classic pop will find plenty to love here. Our initial favorites
include "Everyone Deserves To Love," "Beyond and Above,"
"For the Both of Us," and "The Plural of Yes." Very
nice, smooth, melodic stuff... (Rating: 5+)
Alt Tal
- Open the Gates! (CD, Aural Imaging, Modern jazz)
Offbeat modern jazz from the acoustic jazz trio consisting of David Alt,
Kenny Annis, and Andrew Ryan. While all three are serious
musicians (each actually studied and/or majored in music), the tracks on
Open the Gates! don't have that stuffy, pretentious sound that can
sometimes be associated with serious musicians. Rather and instead, the
tracks on this album come across sounding spontaneous and totally inspired.
Of course, with modern jazz most folks either love it or hate it. We tend
to be fence sitters...unless we get the impression that the people are making
music for the right reasons. In such particular cases, we can get a major
jolt out of this genre. Gates! does what it is intended to do...entertain
while allowing the players to inject their music with their own ideas and
personalities. The playing is fluid and unpredictable...and the sound quality
is impeccable. Eleven tracks here including "Mossad," "News
From Milan," "Catch Me," and "Elaine." Rather neat
sounding stuff... (Rating: 5)
Ans.
Andur - Kiletron (CD, Seksound,
Progressive pop)
The guys in Estonia's Ans. Andur return with another complex collection
of underground pop tunes. The first thing we should mention is that all
of the songs on this album are sung in the band's native language. So folks
who for some puzzling reason require that their pop be sung in English will
probably find this album a bit peculiar and/or puzzling. We have never felt
that songs have to be sung in English in order to be appreciated...and the
fact that some people do feel this way is confusing to us. But what is more
confusing...is the fact that the songs on Kiletron go all over the
map and back again. Instead of being a collection of predictable canned
pop, these guys have recorded a batch of songs that, overall, defy description
and easy categorization. The press release that accompanied this disc compared
the music to The Beatles, The Beach Boys, Yo La Tengo,
Neil Young, Pavement, and Guided By Voices. While these
comparisons do hold true to some extent, the songs on this album don't really
sound too much like any of these artists. Kiletron is not
an easy spin. In order to absorb these guys' ideas you will need to listen
to this album over and over again. But we found that, over time, the songs
ended up having more (rather than less) substance. Nifty obscure tunes include
"Reede," "Praha Kevad," "Ester," and "Suhkur."
Cool stuff indeed... (Rating: 5+)
Aritomo
- Kowai Komorebi (CD, Beta-lactam
Ring, Progressive/soft folk/experimental)
Talk about an obscure oddity. Kowai Komorebi was originally released
as a limited edition vinyl LP in Japan a couple of years ago. Although it
obviously didn't sell that many copies, word apparently spread about the
strange music created by Aritomo. Putting a label on this fellow's
music is difficult. The tracks on this album sound something like soft folky
tunes recorded in a bedroom or apartment. The sound quality varies and is
even slightly distorted at times...and the vocals sound as if they were
recorded under water. But what is most peculiar about Aritomo's music are
the slightly atonal and/or offkey sounds that creep into the mix. It is
hard to tell if the slightly creepy and decidedly unorthodox sound is intentional
or unintentional. Were these tracks recorded by someone who didn't understand
what they were doing...or were they created by an individual whose acute
objective was to skew their sound with unconventional ideas...? That point
may be disputed by folks for years to come. In the meantime, Aritomo is
bound to become somewhat of an underground celebrity simply because he is
taking a different approach to music. Strange stuff with slight hints of
psychedelia... (Rating: 4+++++)
Beehatch
- Brood (CD, Lens,
Progressive/experimental)
The second full-length release from Beehatch, the duo consisting
of Mark Spybey (Dead Voices on Air, Reformed Faction,
Download, zoviet*france) and Phil Western (Download,
Floatpoint, Kone, Plateau). We were as impressed as
hell with the debut self-titled Beehatch release...and we're pleased to
report that Brood is just as good or perhaps even more satisfying.
The album consists mainly of experimental sound collage compositions but
there are also three vocal tracks. The first ("On Ideal Wings")
almost sounds as if it could have been an outtake from Brian Eno's
Before and After Science album. But that's where the similarities
end, as the remaining two vocal cuts ("You Read Me," "In
Silence, Too Silent") feature voices drenched in so many effects that
they blur into the instruments and become downright spooky. The sound collage
pieces are peculiar and perplexing. Spybey and Western are both experts
in the field of electronic music and, as such, the sounds they create and/or
combine sound light years better than the dribble spewed out by the average
generic twenty-first century computer geek. Droning, ambient sounds combine
with soothing warm electronics to create a strangely inviting world where
anything can happen. In addition to the vocal tracks, we particularly dig
"Edison Medicine," "Du Du Horn," "Softly Said,"
and "Breaking Shit for Mark." Housed in a stunning white cardboard
sleeve which includes four cool limited edition artcards. Truly strange
stuff, recommended... (Rating: 5+++)
The
Believers - Lucky You (CD, Chinese
Baby, Pop/country)
The third full-length release from Seattle, Washington's The Believers.
This band is driven by the talents of Craig Aspen and Cyd Frazzini...an
interesting and slightly different male/female pairing. Most bands are either
commercial or underground...but The Believers are actually a credible combination
of the two. Aspen and Frazzini's songs effectively combine the world of
commercial country/pop with the energy and excitement of underground rock
music. Their songs have just the right amount of grit...while remaining
largely accessible to the average music fan. The vocals are definitely at
the center of the band's sound. Craig has a cool, deep, masculine voice
that meshes surprisingly well with Cyd's smooth crooning. On the first spin
some of the commercial elements had us slightly concerned...but by the fourth
or fifth spin we found ourselves being helplessly pulled into these folks'
musical universe. Killer tunes include "Higher Ground," "Mother
Nature," "Read It & Weep," and "The Day the Circus
Left Town." Really nice stuff...recommended... (Rating: 5++)
Black
Label Society - Skullage (CD & DVD,
Eagle Rock Entertainment,
Rock)
The band Black Label Society has been around for about a decade now...so
to celebrate, the folks at Eagle Rock Entertainment have released
a CD and DVD to commemorate the band's career up to this point in time (FYI,
the discs can be bought together in a single package or purchased separately).
We were already fans of the band so rather than converting us, Skullage
reminds us of what great, credible music Zakk Wylde and his associates
have been making since the 1990s. The CD presents sixteen tracks...mainly
focusing on the band's loud rockers although the last four tracks are acoustic.
The DVD is particularly interesting as it presents several segments of the
band live in concert as well as a smattering of commercial videos produced
for television. One thing that this set makes perfectly clear...is that
Wylde really is one of the most gifted guitarists in music today. Plus he
has one hell of a great voice.. His playing is continually inspired
and innovative. Killer tracks include "Machine Gun Man," "Bleed
For Me," "Doomsday Jesus," and "New Religion."
(Rating: 5+)
The CJ Boyd Sexxxtet - Fleur Du Mal (CD, Beta-lactam
Ring, Modern classical/progressive)
This release is a bit out of the ordinary even for the folks with the ultra-weird
reputation at the obtuse Beta-lactam Ring label. Fleur Du Mal is
a different sort of album that treads in that unique territory where modern
classical meets modern experimentation. Instruments used in these recordings
include cello, ninja drum, saw, singing bowl (?), kalimba, double bass,
piano, trumpet, acoustic bass guitar, electric bass guitar and double bass.
The overall sound here...is something like a string quartet/quintet toying
around with sounds and ideas not normally associated with classical music.
This 53 minute album contains only three tracks: "At the End of Breath,"
"Here's To Thanatos," and "And Indeed There Will Be Time."
To be honest, this disc has almost no commercial appeal whatsoever...it
was obviously created as a labor of love. Sometimes soothing, sometimes
haunting...these tracks are strange and peculiar...and yet oddly compelling
and vibrant. A different flavor altogether. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Mary
Bragg - Sugar (Independently released
CD, Pop)
The package containing Mary Bragg's CD initially caught our attention
because she hails from the unlikely city of Swainsboro, Georgia (where one
of our staff members grew up). The second thing that caught our attention
about Sugar...is that Mary has a really incredible presence
and voice. This is Bragg's second full-length release (Certain Simple
Things, her debut, was released in 2004). The press release cites Mary's
influences...Patty Griffin, Dusty Springfield, Joni Mitchell,
The Dixie Chicks, Rufus Wainwright, Emmylou Harris, Lucinda Williams, Shawn
Colvin... We can hear slight threads and traces of all of these
artists in her music to some degree. For a relative newcomer to the world
of music, this young lady sure knows how to deliver a tune. He music is
classic and classy...and there's no doubt in our minds that Sugar
will be warmly received by just about anyone who hears it. Hummable substantial
cuts include "Let Me," "I Will Love You," "Give
That Girl," and "Trying." Really nice stuff with just enough
polish. (Rating: 5+)
Butthole Pudding - Chocolate is the New Vanilla (CD, E-coli Records,
Pussy disco)
Butthole Pudding is the solo project created by Chocolate Fiesta...a
transvestite with a vagina the size of Manhattan. She lives in a housing
project in southern Mississippi and blows smoke to earn a living. Her clean
things are wiped away and precious and yet she has nothing. The practical
state of her knowledge is basic and toxic, yet she states her primitive
memory has cavities for shippers. Tricky for the bitties, tacky for the
batterers...Butthole Pudding is in the banana moving business. Tear the
skin off the animals and wave. Wave to the damn it and push up the poppers.
Chocolate is the New Vanilla is another name for chunks. The vanilla
in your wafer is blowing Atlanta niggers. (Rating: 1)
Jim Byrnes - My Walking Stick (CD, Black
Hen Music, Blues/pop)
Before we begin this review we're going to state right off the bat that
blues/pop is not our usual choice of music here in the sometimes pretentious
yet plush babysue office suite. This kind of music isn't necessary
bad...it's just not the kind of thing that normally makes our sprightly
little cheeks puff up right. But there are always exceptions to every rule...and
before we knew it, we found ourselves enjoying this pleasant smooth album
from Jim Byrnes. Of course, we have to admit that our opinion was
swayed by the fact that producer extraordinaire Steve Dawson produced
the disc (just about everything this man touches is worth its weight
in gold). With Dawson producing and a stellar line-up of backing musicians,
Brynes would probably have had a hell of a time trying to make a
bad album. My Walking Stick contains pure, smooth, feelgood blues
pop with the main focus being Jim's cool and slightly rough vocals. If you
think white singers can't compete with the black guys, think again. Byrnes
comes across as genuine and real as all those old black fellows from Louisiana.
He's that good. Cool cuts include "Ol' Rattler," "Walk
On Boy," "Drown In My Own Tears," and "I Want My Crown."
(Rating: 4++++)
Dejnarowicz - Divertimento (Limited edition CD, Draw, Instrumental/modern
classical/progressive)
Wow...such a cool little package...this entire project was executed
to perfection. Divertimento is a limited edition CD release of only
500 hand-numbered copies. Each copy is designated with a specific letter
of the alphabet. If arranged chronologically, the letters form a 500 character
paragraph. And our guess is that the only folks who know what the paragraph
says are the folks who were involved in this nifty little project. Although
we're not sure why, we rarely receive independent releases from Poland.
And that is a shame because...if this is any indication of what's going
on beneath the surface...there are some wonderfully creative people there
whose music just isn't being heard by folks in other corners of the world.
This album presents five lengthy compositions by Borys Dejnarowicz.
His music bears a slight resemblance to the music of Philip Glass
mainly because his compositions use the same repetitious layering that Glass
is known for. The real surprise here...is that this music was not created
with keyboards and electronics. All of the instruments used are real
(piano, acoustic guitar, violin, viola, double bass, soprano saxophone,
glockenspeil). Some of these tracks remind us a tiny bit of Mike Oldfield
(the man who scored the soundtrack for The Exorcist). Magical and
strangely absorbing, Divertimento is a fantastic little underground
gem that will most definitely remain in our library for decades. Recommended.
(Rating: 5++)
Democracy used to be a
Good thing.
Now democracy is a
Bad thing.
A very, very bad
Thing.(Rating: 1)
The
Division - Mantras (CD, Lens, Progressive/experimental)
The Division is the latest project created by Matthew Schultz
who is probably best known for his work with the bands Lab Report
and Pigface. Mantras is the first of a trilogy. The press
release that accompanied this disc probably sums the music up best by saying
that it "synthesizes world music, dark ambient and magick or Matgick."
The droning hypnotic pieces on this disc involve a multitude of sounds and
ideas from all over the planet. Some of the pieces are more upbeat and danceable...while
others are much more stark and peculiar. The sound quality is pretty incredible...so
if you turn this sucker up really loud there's no telling what you
might hear going on in the background. Nine odd cuts including "Protection,"
"Do What Thou Wilt," "Monks," and "999." Considering
the title of the last track on this album, we can't help but wonder if Schultz
is heavily influenced by the 1970s Greek progressive band Aphrodite's
Child...(?). (Rating: 4+++++)
Dolphin City - Discretion (CD, Dolphin
City, Pop)
On the first couple of spins, we admit that this album didn't have much
of an impression on us. And it wasn't because the songs were bad or offensive...they
just somehow didn't stand out from the pack. But after a half dozen more
spins, we found ourselves slowly being drawn into the music of Newport Beach,
California's Dolphin City. Although the band's music doesn't jump
out at you at first, the subtle nuances in the songs grow warmer with every
spin. Discretion features smart, well-produced songs that could have
been popular FM hits in the 1980s or even the 1990s. These songs have commercial
appeal by they are by no means throwaway pop...but neither are they noisy
alternative rock. Ten calculated mid-tempo cuts here including "Old
Romance," "I Am Love You," and "It Will (Don't Worry)."
Nice, simple, and direct. (Rating: 4+++++)
Linda
Draper - Bridge and Tunnel (CD, Planting Seeds, Soft pop)
Linda Draper's early albums were so sparse and frail that the average
listener would probably hear them and fall asleep. True, her original sound
was an acquired taste...but it also managed to separate her from the hoards
of modern folk/pop artists treading around the planet. With the release
of Bridge and Tunnel Draper has managed to adapt her sound and style
to appeal to a wider audience. Our reaction is somewhat mixed. In some ways,
the more accessible sound works in Linda's favor by making the music more
appealing in more than one environment. For example, this is probably her
first album that can be enjoyed while driving. But in other ways, we have
to admit that we miss the strangely sad and more withdrawn sparse sound.
Don't get the wrong impression. Draper is by no means rocking out and getting
wild on this album. These tunes are, for the most part, slow to mid-tempo
pop. The good news...is that the elements that made Linda's music so appealing
in the first place are still intact. As such, we still found a multitude
of these songs to be ultra-appealing and resonant. Top picks: "Limbo,"
"I Will," "Close Enough," "Last One Standing."
(Rating: 5)
Drifting
In Silence - Facewithin (CD, Labile, Electronic)
Drifting In Silence is the one man electronic recording project created
by Derrick Stembridge. Facewithin features slightly spooky
compositions with funky and/or dub-like beats and a decidedly industrial
sound that harkens back to some of the darker underground artists in the
United States in the 1990s. Stembridge makes music that has a cold harsh
feel...but the beats are fairly simple and familiar enough to draw listeners
into his audio universe. More than any other band, Drifting In Silence music
reminds us very much of Front Line Assembly. Even though this style
of music may have been all over the place in the late 1990s...nowadays we
hear relatively few artists taking this particular path with their music.
Eight cuts here including "Forever," "Coming Up For Air,"
and "Virus." (Rating: 4+++)
Drive
A - Loss of Desire (CD, Dead Conflict
/ Adrenaline Music Group,
Rock/pop)
Smart, fast, loud, thick modern pop with plenty of herk/jerks and stops
and starts. This young Los Angeles, California-based band (all of the members
are under 20) play catchy loud tunes that are more pop than rock...and,
in most cases, rather overtly commercial. Loss of Desire is an album
aimed mainly at very young listeners. These guys play fast and loud...but
the focus is always on songs and melodies. Vocalist Bruno Mascolo
has a voice that is perfect for this style of music. The guitars are way
up front in the mix...and the rhythm section is chock full of focused energy.
Twelve cuts here, all of which are like blasts of cold water in the face.
Our favorite cuts include "Loss of Desire," "Everyone's Alone,"
"The Hell With Motivation," and "It's Getting Worse."
Real rock and roll played with plenty of pop overtones... (Rating: 4+++++)
Mike
Evin - Good Watermelon (CD, Just
Friends, Pop)
Nice, warm, friendly, and genuine. Good Watermelon was recorded live
to tape which may explain the cool, open, direct sound. By avoiding the
pitfalls of layering too many overdubs, Montreal, Canada's Mike Evin
manages to come across sounding like a real person singing real songs. That
may not sound like such a big deal, but in the twenty-first century world
full of too much technology...it actually is a really big deal. Mike's
songs and presentation come across sounding something like a cross between
Ben Folds and Andy Pratt without ever sounding too much like
either one. Watermelon is a pure feelgood experience...simple, entertaining
music without a lot of unnecessary fanfare. Just goes to prove that when
you write good songs you don't need much else. Evin comes across sounding
like a true entertainer whose heart is obviously in the right place. Instead
of sounding like a man who makes music for money and fame, he comes across
sounding like a guy who just likes to have fun. Cool toe-tappers include
"Great Pop Song," "We Should Dance," "Piano Top,"
and "Goodnight Crickets." Plenty of really good songs here...
(Rating: 5+)
Ex
Norwegian - Standby
(CD, Dying Van Gogh, Pop)
This CD arrived in our trusty little mailbox with no accompanying literature
or press release whatsoever. And in this particular case that's fine with
us...because the music on Standby speaks for itself. Ex Norwegian
is the trio consisting of Roger Houdaille (vocals, guitars, mellotron,
synthesizers), Carolina Souto (bass), and Arturo Garcia (drums,
percussion, vocals)...along with a few friends and/or guest artists lending
some additional support. This album presents twelve smart, clean, hummable
pop tunes that are simultaneously accessible and artistically credible.
Songs are the main focus of the band's energies...and they come up with
a wealth of credible tunes here. The vocals are up front in the mix and
easily understood...the guitars smart and precise...and the songs padded
with just enough instrumentation to make them seem thick and full without
coming across sounding overproduced. These folks combine some of the best
elements from 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s pop...all the while presenting their
songs with all the crystal clear clarity that twenty-first century technology
allows. Super smart effective cuts include "Fujeira In My Dreams,"
"Something Unreal," "Add Vice," and "All Over Again."
Great pop stuff. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Flare
- Cut (CD, Affairs
of the Heart, Pop)
FYI, technically the precise name of the band listed on this CD is Flare
Acoustic Arts League. It doesn't surprise us in the least that LD
Beghtol's more recent releases come to the United States by way of overseas
labels. After all, this fellow's eclectic style of music doesn't easily
fit within the strict confines seemingly required by the average American
music fan. In terms of lyrics, Cut finds Beghtol at the top of his
game. This fourteen track album covers a lot of ground with regard to thoughts
and ideas. The lead track ("Reminiscences of a Minnesota State Training
School Alumnus, Class of 1905") details specifics about corpses...all
the while being presented in a decidedly polite and soft spoken manner.
As has been the case with past Flare releases, arrangements are critical
to the overall sound. There are some odd surprises thrown in along the way
as well. The pirate-esque sound of "Ballad of Little Brown Bear"
is strangely puzzling. And the album ends on a peculiar note with "Recessional"
(Make more! Spend more! Buy more things!)...a possible plea to the
public to get off their whiny recession asses and do something...? After
spinning this album a few times, we can't help but wonder if Beghtol might
eventually end up composing material for musicals. After all, the essential
elements are already there. Beautiful packaging on this one and fortunately
a lyric booklet is included. Some of the lyrics are peculiar, some are funny
and obtuse...while still others have a hint of sadness. Cut is bound
to be misinterpreted by a wide variety of folks. And that is, of course,
a very good thing. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
William
Fitzsimmons - The Sparrow and the Crow
(CD, Mercer Street, Soft folky pop)
This is a super soft and sleepy collection of sombre, almost whispered folky
pop...so be forewarned. Fortunately, we came across this disc when we were
in a sombre, almost whispered folky pop kinda mood...so The Sparrow and
the Crow probably had its intended effect right off the bat. More than
any other artist, the music of William Fitzsimmons recalls underground
icon Sufjan Stevens...except the songs are much more subtle and restrained.
If there's one thing that Crow makes perfectly clear, it is the fact
that William has a really cool super satisfying voice that most girls will
probably roll over and die for. Another thing that is rather remarkable
about this album is how accessible many of the tunes are. With the right
amount of luck, Fitzsimmons could very easily find himself right in the
middle of the spotlight. His songs are remarkably effective and accessible...and
his melodies are instantly absorbing. William's first two albums were self-produced.
This, his first to be recorded in a professional studio, will undoubtedly
be the one to put him on the map. Poignant killer cuts include "After
Afterall," "We Feel Alone," and "They'll Never Take
the Good Years." Wonderfully personal and slightly sad stuff with heart.
Recommended for anyone who ever loved Donovan. (Rating: 5+)
Future Future - Future Future (Independently released CD EP, Rock/pop)
These guys have an odd attitude-driven sound that is something like a modern
twenty-first century take on the music of The Frogs (the vocals are
particularly similar at times). The seven songs on this EP range from pop
to synth punk to rock...and then back to pop again. When they're really
pumping, the guys in Future Future can deliver a mighty whomp. When
they're going for pop...they come up with some strikingly catchy melodies.
The band is the duo consisting of brothers Jordan Lawlor (vocals,
guitar, bass, keys, electronics) and Jamie Lawlor (drums, percussion).
Catchy driving cuts include "Television Glow" (a really great
rock track), "Teeth," "Stephanie," and "Hard To
Exist." Cool stuff that delivers a punch. (Rating: 5++)
Girl
In A Coma - Trio B.C. (CD, Blackheart, Pop/rock)
Interesting and rather accessible female trio that has been picked up by
Joan Jett's Blackheart label. Girl In A Coma consists
of Nina Diaz (guitars, keys, vocals), Phanie D (drums, percussion),
and Jenn Alva (bass, winchester). These girls write and record modern
pop music with a nice masculine backbone. The vocals are way up front in
the mix, allowing the listener to easily understand the lyrics and follow
the melodies. Some of these tracks are straightforward pop while others
have a more laidback bluesy feel. Underground pop fans be forewarned...Trio
B.C. is a super slick album with a big super slick studio sound. Fortunately
in this case the nice slick sound works in the band's favor. Thirteen nifty
cuts here including "Static Mind," "Slaughter Lane,"
"Pink Lemonade," and "Empty Promise." (Rating: 4++++)
Shit in your food.
Then eat your
Food.(Rating: 1)
So...your business is about to fail
Because you made poor business decisions?
Here, have some money so that you can
Stay in business.So...your home is going to be foreclosed
Because you purchased a more expensive home than you could afford?
Here, let us help you lower your payments so that you can
Stay in your home.So...you have no money now
Because you spent it all rather than save for a rainy day?
Here, have some money so that you won't have to work at all
For the next few months.So you made wise business decisions,
Bought a home you could afford,
And saved your money?Sorry...you get NOTHING.
(Rating: 1)
Hermit
Thrushes - Slight Fountain (CD, Joyful Noise Recordings,
Progressive pop)
This is one of those slightly offbeat albums that we had to spin several
times before the music sank in. Hermit Thrushes is a five piece band
based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. These folks create music that sounds
something like Athens, Georgia-based progressive pop bands from the 1990s
peppered with some of the odd jagged musical fragments found in the music
of Captain Beefheart. The tunes on Slight Fountain are simultaneously
smooth and peculiar. While there are certainly enough solid melodies for
satisfying listening, there are also enough surprises and oddities in the
mix to keep things interesting without ever veering too far off the main
path. Although it didn't occur to us on the first couple of spins, after
becoming familiar with this band's music we realized that there are many
elements here that Rob Crow fans should find very appealing. Fourteen
intriguing cuts including "Snowflake Heart," "Golden Wounds,"
"Older Trees," and "A Good Dream." Nifty stuff. (Rating:
5+)
Adam
Hill - Them Dirty Roads (Independently
released CD, Folk)
Interesting stuff from a slightly different perspective. While we hear tons
of underground pop and rock bands every week of the year...it isn't often
that we are treated to a self-released CD by an up-and-coming folk and roots
artist...and that is exactly how Adam Hill describes himself. Them
Dirty Roads is a refreshingly sparse album that focuses on songs. Hill's
songs sound something like early Bob Dylan but he has a much better
voice and melodic sense. The tunes incorporate elements from folk, bluegrass,
and pop. Adam doesn't necessarily follow tradition with his music. In some
ways he sounds like a bluegrass musician who just happens to have a Ph.D.
(i.e., instead of coming across like a simple guy he sounds like a fellow
who is probably super intelligent). We wouldn't be surprised in the least
if this guy's tunes end up being covered by some big names in the very near
future. His songs are genuinely absorbing and substantial...and they are
presented using simple yet appropriate arrangements. Cool cuts include "Angeline
the Baker," "Fueled Up," "Golden State," and "Ribbons
and Curls." (Rating: 5)
Hitch
- Clair.Obscur (CD, Latest
Flame, Rock)
Anyone who loved the more adventurous loud underground guitar rock bands
of the 1990s will probably get a mighty big charge out of Belgium's Hitch.
True to the claim of the press release that accompanied this disc, these
guys write and record music that sounds something like a cross between Drive
Like Jehu and The Jesus Lizard. Clair.Obscur is chock
full of wonderfully skewed guitars, driving rhythms, and distorted vocals.
Unlike most modern hard rock bands whose songs all sound alike, the guys
in Hitch seem to purposely write songs that are all distinctly different
from one another. So while the songs are mainly loud and abrasive, they
are by no means carbon copies of one another. Plenty of big thick rockers
here including "Art Nouveau!," "We Were All Wrong,"
"Dance Dance Dance," and "The Paper Beast." Good stuff,
recommended... (Rating: 5++)
I
Need Sleep - Welcome To Monsters (CD-R
EP, Rock/pop)
A short little CD-R EP (less than 12 minutes in length) from some mostly
invisible guys in Knoxville, Tennessee who sound like they're having some
genuine fun with technology. There was no accompanying biographical statement
or press release that came with this disc so we know nothing about the band
other than what we hear on the disc. I Need Sleep tunes are hard
techno pop with a slightly goofy slant. Our guess is that these guys definitely
have a sense of humor about what they're doing. What is surprising...is
that with a bit more polish some of these tracks could have a good degree
of commercial appeal. But make no mistake, Welcome To Monsters is
definitely an underground project from start to finish. Jagged and peculiar...rather
interesting... (Rating: 4+++)
Edward Ka-Spel - Dream Logik X (CD EP, Beta-lactam
Ring, Progressive/experimental)
More experimental sound collages from Edward Ka-Spel...who most folks
know for his work with the band The Legendary Pink Dots. This EP
features three tracks...all of which are strange and trippy as hell. We
feel mighty goddamn stupid that we have only begun to pick up on this guy's
work as of the past twelve months or so...but hey, better late than never.
In any event, now that we've been turned on...we've been really, really
turned on. Everything that we hear from this guy is absolutely mind blowing.
Dream Logik X is another incredible experience from a man who always
seems to push the right buttons. Fantastic heady stuff to put you in a dreamlike
state of mind. More fantastic cover art courtesy of Jesse
Peper. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
KTU
- Quiver (CD, Hoedown / 7d Media,
Instrumental/eclectic)
This disc initially caught our attention for two reasons. First, because
we really enjoyed the last release from KTU (Armed Monkey)
and second...because we're usually prone to enjoy just about any project
that guitarist Trey Gunn is involved with. In addition to Gunn, this
KTU release also features the talents of Kimmo Pohjonen (accordion,
voice) and Pat Mastelotto (rhythmic devices, samples). Quiver
is, not surprisingly, an odd album. These tracks incorporate elements of
modern twenty-first century music with some of the ideas present in progressive
music from the 1970s. KTU compositions incorporate elements from jazz, rock,
and experimental electronica...and they're all presented and displayed with
mindbending proficiency. This is heady stuff and probably a lot to take
in for the casual listener. Our favorite track is "Purga" which
features some really spooky Merry-Go-Round-ish organ sounds. Unpredictable,
precisely presented stuff... (Rating: 5+)
La
Forza - Dance Music For Your Mind (Independently
released CD, Instrumental)
La Forza is the duo consisting of Divina Klein (keyboards,
vocals) and Douglas Mackar (drum programming, sequencing). Dance
Music For Your Mind is a bit different from your average twenty-first
century electronic release. Klein and Mackar create instrumental music that
sounds something like a cross between Muzak and techno pop. Instead of trying
to blow listeners away with harsh weird noise, these folks seem driven by
the desire to make nice smooth mid-tempo pop tracks that can be listened
to and enjoyed by just about anyone. Very nice tri-fold digipak sleeve.
Twelve smooth cool cuts including "Vision Quest," "Never
Too Wild For Forever," and "To Connect To Eternity." (Rating:
4+++)
The Last House on the Left - Original Motion Picture Score: Music by John Murphy (CD,
La-La Land, Motion
Picture Score)
Have you ever noticed that the very best motion picture scores are
almost always those associated with scary and/or suspenseful films...? It's
true...and a good case in point is John Murphy's score for the film
The Last House on the Left. According to the press release, the film
(presented by Wes Craven and Sean Cunningham) tells the tale
of "how far two ordinary people will go to exact revenge on the
sociopaths who harmed their child." Murphy was an excellent choice
to create music that is eerie and creepy and gives the listener the distinct
feeling of being slightly uncomfortable. These strange compositions have
a huge epic sound that should totally blow viewers away in theaters across
the country. Gripping tracks include "The Crossing," "In
The Woods" (this one is particularly peculiar), "Candles,"
and "The End." Richly rewarding and rather mind-bending stuff...
(Rating: 5)
Iris
Leu - Hushaboo (CD, Muzzlepuff Music,
Soft pop)
Nice, smooth, intelligent mid-tempo piano pop from Iris Leu. Hushaboo
presents ten compositions that spotlight Leu's fantastic vocal style--her
voice sounds remarkably similar to Kate Bush on her criminally overlooked
Lionheart album. Iris writes all of her own songs...and on this album
she pretty much hits the target dead center with every track (this could
be because forty tracks were originally recorded but only ten ended up being
used for this album). The songs on this CD have a nice, light, open, airy
sound that is particularly inviting because it allows the listener to focus
on Leu's voice and lyrics. Not a lot more to say here...except that we wouldn't
be surprised in the least if this young lady ends up being hugely successful
over the course of the next few years. Intrinsically satisfying tracks include
"For Keeps," "Hollowville," and "Manifesto."
Cool smooth music with heart. (Rating: 5)
The Lodge - Take That Devil (CD, Gooseberry, Pop)
Although this wasn't an instant fix for us...over the course of a dozen
or more spins we finally decided that we absolutely love the music of The
Lodge. This band was created by Mike O'Neill (Inbreds,
The Beginners), Charles Austin (The Super Friendz,
Neuselland), Andrew Glencross (Neuselland), and Cliff
Gibb (Thrush Hermit). So...what does the music sound like...?
The tunes on Take That Devil sound very much like a mutated version
of Redd Kross presenting smart progressive heady twenty-first century
pop. The band's vocals sound very much like a cross between Jeff McDonald
and Neil Innes (sometimes more the former than the latter and vice
versa). But it is the songs themselves that make Devil such a totally
pleasing and rewarding spin. The songs on this album are not obvious and
immediately catchy. But we found that the more familiar this band's songs
became, the more substantial they seemed. Cool guitars, unusual arrangements...and
enough pop appeal to grab the attention of even the most jaded listeners.
Wonderfully addictive cuts include "World In Me," "Thaw Me
Out" (god, this one is incredible), "She's A Lightbulb"
(another kickass cut), and "Forget the Silence." Some of
these tunes are incredibly effective. (Rating: 5)
Loop
2.4.3 - Zodiac Dust (CD, Music Starts From Silence,
Progressive/experimental)
Interesting. Very, very, very interesting. So many albums can be
summed up in a few words and the music quickly digested in half a dozen
spins. As of the writing of this review, we managed to spin this album twenty
times or more...and we still can't quite find the words to describe
it. The folks in Loop 2.4.3 write and record experimental music with
a difference...and obtuse percussion played an integral part in its creation.
The tracks on this album are peculiar and odd but unlike the crap generated
by your average twenty-first century electronic artist...they are by
no means unlistenable. Actually and in fact, quite the opposite is true.
The way these folks craft and create their music, their really odd compositions
have strange, warm qualities that make you want to hear them over and over
again. There are no words...no catchy melodies...and none of the gimmicky
goofy sounds one normally associates with experimental music. This band
is the duo consisting of Thomas Kozumplik and Lorne Watson.
These two guys are doing everything right. This is, without a doubt, one
of the most interesting progressive/experimental releases we have heard
this year. Incredible stuff that sounds even more incredible if you
turn it up really, really loud... Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
LSD March - Uretakumo Nakunarutorika (CD EP, Beta-lactam
Ring, Progressive/experimental)
The last full-length we heard from Japan's LSD March was so over-the-top
that most folks would not even be able to get through a single spin. Uretakumo
Nakunarutorika is more accessible...but don't expect to hear the retards
on American Idol performing covers of Shinsuke Michishita's
songs anytime soon. This album features tracks that have definite rhythms...but
the vocals are what will probably scare away casual listeners. Imagine a
world where tribal music meets industrial music...and accidentally gets
intermingled with psychedelia...and you might begin to have an idea of what
this music sounds like. The vocals...sound something like a malfunctioning
robot who has taken too many tranquilizers. Casual music fans will want
to avoid this one like the plague. Folks who are continually seeking out
truly unusual and obscure things...will absolutely love this shit.
Eleven bizarre cuts here including "Kumoitachikumo," "Uzunisase,"
"Tawayagaina," and "Warehayaenu." Totally fried mental/metallic
stuff. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Are people inherently good?
No no no.
Is conservation important?
No no no.
Should you trust anyone?
No no no.
Is it better to destroy than create?
Yes yes yes.
(Rating: 1)
Luca
Olivieri - La Quarta Dimensione (Independently
released CD, Instrumental)
Smooth, intricate instrumentals from Milano, Italy's Luca Olivieri
who some folks may already be familiar with as a member of the band Yo
Yo Mundi. The compositions on La Quarta Dimensione come from
a variety of sources. Some pieces were created for theatrical shows, others
were created for "aged mute movies"...while others are just recordings
that were created and not heard until now. Olivieri's music has strangely
calming qualities that make it perfect music for that evening at home when
you just want to relax and gravitate toward the unknown. Soothing peaceful
cuts include "Angelina," "Un Mondo Segreto," "Alibi,"
and "Le Ali Del Tempo." Intriguing stuff... (Rating: 5)
Ozric Tentacles - The Yumyum Tree (CD, Snapper
Music, Progressive)
Although still virtually unknown in North America, the folks in Great Britain's
Ozric Tentacles have been a cult favorite for years in their own
country. The band began way back in 1983 and since that time have released
about 25 albums (!). This is the first new release since The Floor's
Too Far Away which was released in 2006. The Yumyum Tree finds
the band continuing in their quest to merge ideas from 1970s progressive
rock bands with the modern techno sounds of the twenty-first century. Like
some of the very best progressive albums from the seventies, The Yumyum
Tree gives the listener the feeling of floating and/or traveling in
space. The music has a slightly jazzy quality that reminds us very much
of Clearlight Symphony. There are plenty of subtle trippy sounds
floating in and out of the mix and some wonderfully fluid guitar playing
that would make Steve Hillage proud. Eight cool reflective cuts here
including "Magick Valley," "Oolong Oolong," and "Nakuru."
Cool and heady progressive stuff... (Rating: 5)
Pale Air Singers - Pale Air Singers (CD, Flemish
Eye, Progressive)
Pale Air Singers is a band that was created by two other bands combining
their talents to create a record. The band consists of the five members
in the bands The Cape May and Run Chico Run. This self-titled
album features beautiful progressive free flowing stream-of-consciousness
pop. We get the impression that this music was recorded with little regard
for any sort of commercial appeal. These tracks combine elements from underground
pop with Americana folk music to create an album that sounds strangely out
of place in today's musical climate. Although we can hear traces of various
bands threaded throughout this album...we'll be damned if we can come up
with one particular soundalike artist. Peculiar heady tracks include "Alomeia,"
"Convict Escapes," "The last of Jim Prior," and "Swill
and Grits." Subtle, slightly eerie modern progressive pop. The wonderful-but-slightly-warbly
vocals are superb. (Rating: 5+)
Pomegranates - Everybody, Come Outside! (Advance CD, Lujo,
Progressive pop/rock)
We were impressed with the last full-length (Everything Is Alive)
from these folks...so we weren't too surprised to find ourselves digging
the sounds on the new album. Cincinnati, Ohio's Pomegranates have
a sound that is instantly likable...and just adventurous enough to hold
your attention. Everybody, Come Outside! features energetic, vibrant,
danceable modern pop delivered with a nice, slick, slightly sparse sound.
While the band's last effort was well received, we can't help but think
that this is the album that will truly put them on the map. Eleven melodic
toe tappers with cool creative threads running in and out of the mix. We
would have liked to have seen the actual complete release on this one rather
than an advance CD. 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)
Rapoon
- Dark Rivers (CD, Lens,
Progressive/experimental)
During the period when we were spinning this CD, two friends stopped by
to visit. After two or three tracks, one guest asked if we would play something
else. The other guest said that the music was making them feel uncomfortable
and asked if we would turn the volume down. Our guess is that these are
the exact reactions Rapoon was shooting for when he recorded Dark
Rivers. This band is solo project created by Robin Storey who
was a founding member of the band :zoviet*france. (As an interesting
side note, Storey has released over 40 CDs over the course of the past fifteen
years or so.) Dark Rivers is not recommended for fans of commercial
music. Storey records music that could probably best be described as experimental
sound pieces. This album consists of eleven cuts, most of which are strange,
otherworldly electronic drones. The sounds Robin creates are foreign, spooky,
hypnotic, and weird. But he manages to present his unorthodox creations
with taste and style. Thus, those who are willing to follow his mega-creativity
will find a lot to love here. We found that the louder we turned this l'il
sucker up, the better it sounded. Cool reflective cuts include "Edge
of Nowhere," "The Messiah of Science," and "Where the
Hills Brood." Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Rectal Bleeding Phenomenon - For All the Bloody Assholes in the World (CD, Paparus,
Laboratory report)
Five, four, three, two, one...here comes Rectal Bleeding Phenomenon.
This CD comes complete with a swab of rectal blood taped to the inside of
the graphic digipak sleeve. The front cover shows all five members' buttholes,
appropriately bleeding themselves silly. The compositions are vocal excerpts
taken from actual doctor visits in the Philadelphia area in which the band
members went in for a routine visit with their holes purposely bloodied
up so much as to disturb the doctor. Some of the pieces work...while others
seem somewhat pointless in nature. But hey...one bloody asshole deserves
another, right? Thumbs up and down, thumbs all around...cram your thumb
wherever it will go. All doctors are shitheads and this is proof positive.
(Not Rated)
Margo
Reymundo - My Heart's Desire (CD, OrganicaTunes.com, Pop)
Margo Reymundo's music has a smooth, slick, commercial sound that
should be instantly appealing to fans of American Idol. Her music
is melodic and well-produced and she throws in some familiar cover tunes
to put the listener at ease. Reymundo's cover tunes are certainly credible...but
in our opinion her own tunes are much more pleasing and real. Margo has
a great sounding resonant voice that is particularly inviting. Some of the
tracks have a slightly jazzy sound that seems to work really well. A total
of sixteen tracks here including "My Heart's Desire," "Tell
Me," "The Way Back," and "Couldn't Be More Wrong."
A particularly smooth spin... (Rating: 4++)
Ring of Truth - Everything's the Same But in a Different Place (CD, Sound Archive,
Progressive pop)
The debut full-length album from the United Kingdom's Ring of Truth.
If you're looking for a band that easily fits within a specific genre, you
won't find it here. The folks in this band have a surprisingly accessible
sound. That said, their accessible sound seems to go all over the place
within the scope of this album. At times the band's music is precisely timed
commercial pop (with a few definite Beatles influences popping in
from time to time)...while at other times their arena rock sound recalls
some of U2's music from the 1990s. The lead vocalist has a particularly
impressive voice...consistently managing to remain the focal point of the
music. And unlike most lead vocalists, this guy has the presence to make
it work. Smart pop cuts include "Well, I Walked" and "The
Sweetest Heart." With a debut this solid, our guess is that these guys
have the potential to hit the big time in the near future... (Rating: 5+)
Ronald
of Orange - Brush Away the Cobwebs (CD
EP, Velvet Blue Music,
Pop)
Ronald of Orange is a new side project created by Ronnie Martin
(of Joy Electric fame)...probably because the five songs on this
EP present a slightly different side of Martin's musical personality. We've
been followers of Joy Electric for years and years but we can certainly
also appreciate Ronald of Orange. Ronnie's new band sounds more obviously
commercial than anything we've heard from him in the past...so we can only
hope that this project opens up new doors for this criminally overlooked
musician. The instruments used here and the arrangements should be much
more suited to the average music fans' ears...and the layered vocals are
much more conventional than what Joy Electric fans may be accustomed to
hearing. We have to admit that we prefer the more eclectic sound of Joy
Electric over Ronald of Orange...but that doesn't mean these songs aren't
super smart and crafty...and we were particularly pleased that Martin opted
to include a very pleasing cover of "Today" by babysue
favorite Innocence Mission. (Rating: 5+)
Secrets
Between Sailors - Secrets Between Sailors
(Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
Nice, direct, raw pop/rock. The guys in Bloomington, Indiana's Secrets
Between Sailors play loud guitar-driven pop/rock with plenty of punch.
More than any other band, the songs on this album bear a strong resemblance
to early albums from The Who...although we can also hear traces of
Husker Du creeping in as well. These fellows pepper their tunes with
big power chords...and the rhythms throb with precise intensity. Also like
The Who, the vocals are slightly raw and ragged which gives the music a
cool, genuine urgency. Fans of real rock bands may be interested
to know that these fellows do not layer and overdub their tunes to death.
The tracks on this album have a nice live sound and there was apparently
very little overdubbing used in the recording process. Cool loud guitar
rockers include "In The Summertime," "Wolves and Thieves,"
"Dead Little Indians," and "Tiny Pieces." (Rating: 5)
Shplang
- My Big Three Wheeler (CD, My Daily Creation / Jam, Pop)
Most bands have one sound or style...and they drill it into the ground over
the course of a 45-minute CD. On My Big Three Wheeler, the folks
in Los Angeles, California's Shplang present a variety of sounds
and styles...and no matter what genre they're delving into, they always
manage to come across sounding real. The band is the trio consisting
of Peter Marston (vocals, guitars, bass, keyboards), John Krause
(bass, vocals), and Paul Angers (drums percussion). What makes this
album an interesting spin is that these guys sound like they're mainly in
it to have a good time. Although these tracks are accessible and have some
commercial appeal, by no means do they sound calculated or canned. These
recordings are upbeat and warm...with just enough spontaneity to keep things
interesting. But the best thing about this album is the fact that it sounds
better the more you spin it (the true mark of a good, solid disc). Really
nice understated vocals. Eleven smart cuts here including "Spanish
Galleons," "Let's Get High (And I Could Be Your Man)," and
"Last Match In The Tinderbox." Good, real, sincere stuff... (Rating:
5+)
Silversun
Pickups - Swoon (CD, Dangerbird,
Pop/rock)
With a band name like this you'd sure better have some good guitar sounds.
Don't worry...the guys in Silversun Pickups are happy to provide
plenty of 'em here. We dug the first couple of releases we heard
from these guys and then, for some reason, somebody out there in the world
of music neglected to keep us up-to-date on this band. No matter. All that
really matters at this point in time is that Swoon finds these guys
in fine form as they present an album chock full of smart guitar-based pop/rock.
Sounds like these guys have paid their dues now. Whereas on their earlier
recordings it seemed as if the band was struggling a bit to find their sound,
that is certainly no longer the case. This album features extremely focused
tunes...and the band plays with fine-tuned precision. Imagine Jeff Martin
of Starflyer 59 turning up the volume and rocking out really hard...and
you might begin to have some idea of what this album sounds like. Produced
by Dave Cooley and mixed by Tony Hoffer, this is one thick,
throbbing, mother. Cool cuts include "There's No Secrets This Year,"
"Growing Old Is Getting Old," "Substitution," and "Surrounded
(or Spiraling)." Super smart music...and the packaging is stunning.
Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Skold vs. KMFDM - Skold vs. KMFDM (CD, KMFDM,
Electronic/industrial/techno)
There seems to be a gradual but slowly emerging revival of industrial/techno
music from the 1990s lately. And what better way to herald in the revival
than with a collaborative album from Tim Skold and KMFDM...?
This is by no means a simple throwaway release...there's a lot of music
here (almost 68 minutes total). And within that amount of space these two
artists manage to toss out 22 thick technology-laced cuts that are sure
to catch on with kids as well as folks who lived through this era of music
in the nineties. There's plenty of danceable music here...but also enough
strange experimental stuff to keep things interesting. As you might expect,
the sound quality is top notch...these tunes absolutely throb like
wormy pussies on ecstasy. Rather than coming across like a retro release,
Skold vs. KMFDM instead sounds very modern and current. Kickass tracks
include "Why Me," "A Common Enemy," "Alkohol,"
and "All Or Nothing." Great stuff, executed to perfection. Recommended.
(Rating: 5++)
Drugs make you
Smarter.(Rating: 1)
Snot Eating Bunny Rabbits - Ellen DeGeneres is a Fucked Up Whore (One half CD, Delvotrack,
Bluegrass)
Our guess is that the Snot Eating Bunny Rabbits will have a hell
of a time selling their music because they are presenting what is most
certainly a very unpopular viewpoint in today's closed-minded world. As
everyone already knows, Ellen DeGeneres is indeed a fucked up whore.
And its nice to see a band who isn't afraid to tell the truth about this
obvious fact. But the problem is that they sell only half of their CDs at
a time...which means, of course, that you have to buy two copies and then
try to glue the halves together in order to hear the music (this is assuming
that you bought opposite halves...if not, you have to buy another copy hoping
to get the correct half...!!!). We tried this twice and it tore up a
computer and a CD player. After spending several hours trying to make a
playable disc, we finally decided that it just wasn't worth the effort.
So, as much as we applaud Snot Eating Bunny Rabbits for being obnoxious
and honest...we can't recommend this disc because it is just too much trouble.
We would like to eat the Rabbits' shit...but we can't. We just...can't.
(Rating: 1)
The
Southern Sea - Theoretically, Yes. Honestly,
No. (CD, Old House,
Progressive pop)
In 2005 the folks in The Southern Sea released their debut disc...an
EP titled Simple Machines for Complex Problems. The EP was well-received.
Since that time, the band obviously took their time writing songs and recording
this, their debut full-length album. It was worth the wait. Theoretically,
Yes. Honestly, No. is an extremely intricate and well-crafted album
full of wonderfully cool modern progressive pop tunes. The best frame of
reference would probably be to compare these songs to The Flaming Lips.
But unlike other bands whose music fits in such a category, the folks in
this band do not sound like copycats. The smooth, smart tunes on
this album rely heavily on studio technology...but the vocal melodies are
never buried underneath too many messy layers of crap. These songs are not
predictable and yet...they are extremely easy on the ears (and mind). Smooth
and just slightly different...Theoretically, Yes. Honestly, No. hits
the bull's eye dead on. Cool tracks include "These Things Always End
Badly," "Quarks Chasing a Hypochondriac," and "I Bought
A Used Camera From a Website" (gotta love them song titles).
A super nice album from start to finish...really nice warm sound quality
courtesy of producer T. W. Walsh. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Spain Colored Orange - Sneaky Like a Villain (CD, Shout
It Out Loud Music, Progressive pop)
The first keyboard riff on Sneaky Like a Villain is sneaky indeed...for
a minute you will probably be expecting The Beatles' "Strawberry
Fields" to begin blasting out of the speakers at any moment. Hailing
from the unlikely city of Houston, Texas, the guys in Spain Colored Orange
have created an intoxicatingly tasty collection of intelligent pop treats.
The band consists of Gilbert Alfaro (vocals, electric piano, synthesizers),
Eric Jackson (trumpet, keyboards), Steve Torres (drums, percussion),
Steve Aikey (bass), and Mike Dugat (guitar). Villain
seamlessly combines pure pop elements with modern progressive music to create
an album that is a smooth spin while simultaneously presenting subtle surprises
that keep things interesting. Alfaro's vocals are to die for...this guy
has a truly great understated voice that is immediately soothing and genuine.
The arrangements are rather complex and intricate...and yet they somehow
never seem to overshadow the main melody. This album will definitely be
greeted with open arms by fans of substantial underground pop. Classic cuts
include "Who Am I?", "Music Box," "It Was Christmas
Time," and "You Think You Know." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Spring
Creek - Way Up On A Mountain (CD, Rebel, Bluegrass/pop)
The folks in Spring Creek play a very appealing brand of bluegrass
pop that has been made famous worldwide by artists like Alison Kraus.
Prior to releasing this CD the band released two well-received independent
releases (Rural & Cosmic Bluegrass and Lonesome Way To Go).
This album will probably be the one that puts the band on the map. Way
Up On A Mountain is a smooth and entertaining spin...full of toe-tapping
feelgood tunes peppered with plenty of precise banjo picking and fiddle
playing. Even though these songs are far too slick to be considered traditional
bluegrass, we get the impression that these folks are making music for all
the right reasons (i.e., to please themselves and entertain others).
The band consists of Chris Elliott (banjo, vocals), Jessica Smith
(bass fiddle, vocals), Taylor Sims (guitar, vocals), and Alex
Johnstone (mandolin, vocals). The vocals...and particularly the harmonies...are
dead on center from start to finish. Quality cuts include "My Love
Is Way Up On A Mountain," "Try And Catch The Wind," and "'Til
You Come Back To Me." A real winner of an album. (Rating: 5+)
Stephaniesid - Warm People (CD, Nine Mile, Progressive pop)
Asheville, North Carolina seems to be a hotbed of talent these days with
more and more creative artists cropping up in what used to be a very unlikely
city for underground bands to reside (could be the new Athens, Georgia
perhaps...?). The folks in Stephaniesid create music that sounds
very much unlike what most folks are accustomed to hearing from bands in
the Southeastern United States. The tracks on Warm People have a
cool progressive sound with the trademark being vocalist Stephanie Morgan,
a young lady whose voice occasionally reminds us very much of Bjork.
A word of warning. The songs on this album do not immediately jump out at
you and remain in your head (i.e., this is not easy catchy pop music). But
we found that over the course of a half dozen spins this band's music seemed
to have more and more depth. Cool heady cuts include "Fore!",
"The Weakling," "Big Grey Peepers," and "Warm People."
Nice warm intelligent music. (Rating: 4+++++)
Angie
Stevens - Queen of This Mess (CD, Boss
Koala, Pop)
The photo on the front of this album is an immediate attention grabber...featuring
Angie Stevens standing alone in a forest wearing a vintage evening
dress and holding a butterfly catcher's net. The press release that accompanied
this disc compared Stevens' music to Patty Griffin and EmmyLou
Harris...and this gives a pretty good indication of where this young
lady is coming from with her music. Angie is quite a songwriter...and she
has a remarkably warm and inviting voice. For an up-and-coming artist, Stevens
has a remarkably mature and inviting sound. She could very easily make the
transformation from an underground newcomer to major league player overnight.
The tracks on Queen of This Mess are smooth and understated...and
prove that Angie is most definitely a real force to be reckoned with. Eleven
smart, reflective cuts here including "Hold Me Close," "This
Time Around," "This River," and "Ship Song." (Rating:
5+)
Go swine flu go.
Knock 'em down and
Take 'em away.
They weren't worth a goddamn
Anyway.(Rating: 1)
Paul "Snoflake"
Taylor - Share It! (CD-R, Makeshift
Music, Pop)
We're the kind of reviewers that like to sum up the description of an artist's
music in clever little catch phrases, so we'll describe the music of Paul
"Snoflake" Taylor by describing him as the love child of John
Lennon and Prince with Todd Rundgren and Alex Chilton
as uncles and Joni Mitchell as an aunt (actually this is totally
tongue-in-cheek because the press release that accompanied this disc suggested
that we use this comparison). Share It! is an interesting album.
Underground releases usually sound like underground releases...but this
album does not mainly because Taylor writes classic pop songs that could
easily be appreciated by a wide spectrum of listeners. His songs are warm
and inviting...and he has a nice understated vocal style that is particularly
appealing. And in all honesty, he does indeed have a good bit in common
with at least some of the well-known artists mentioned above (we can hear
definite threads of Lennon and Chilton in his music). Nine feelgood tracks
here including "Just Can't Wait That Long Anymore," "Make
Your Echoes Go Away," and "Perfect Reflection." (Rating:
4++++)
Tender Loving Empire - Friends and Friends of Friends Vol. 2 (Double CD, Tender Loving Empire,
Various artists compilation)
Okay, so in this instance we're going to admit that we didn't even have
time to spin this one. So...what on earth are you doing reviewing it then,
you retarded babysue folks...??? Well...we rarely (if ever) review
various artists compilations. But in this instance we can guarantee you
that there are plenty of choice nuggets on this release just because it
was put out by one of the best underground labels in the country...Tender
Loving Empire. We have yet to hear anything on this cool little label that
we didn't love. So we are certain there are plenty of juicy mcnuggets clustered
all over these two CDs. Support this label and their bands...because they
deserve it. (Not Rated)
U.S.A. (United States of Awful)
America is
Shitty.(Rating: 1)
The Weather Station - The Line (Independently released CD, Progressive)
Extraordinarily unorthodox music here...and decidedly uncommercial. The
Weather Station started out as the one-woman band created by Tamara
Lindeman but has since morphed into a full blown band with additional
members. The music...is rather difficult to describe and/or compare with
other artists. The only real reference point that comes to mind is some
of the very early material from the 1970s British progressive band Curved
Air...and this comparison only holds true because some of Lindeman's
soft, breathy, ghost-like vocals sometimes remind us of Sonja Christina.
The songs on The Line come across sounding like soft, progressive,
stream-of-consciousness pieces. The overall sound is slightly spooky and
odd and yet...most of the songs have a strangely calming quality that is
difficult to pin down. The instruments used are peculiar as are the arrangements.
This is not direct music...but rather something that comes from a slightly
different universe. Although we're having difficulty finding ways to describe
this album there is one thing we're certain of. The more we play The
Line...the better it sounds. Twelve odd dreamy tracks here including
"The Waltz," "Amaranth," "The Hunter," and
"Waltz Pt. 2." Strangely hypnotic. Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The Western States - Bye and Bye (CD, Dollar
Tone, Soft pop)
This album has a nice, warm, analog sound...because it was recorded on nice,
warm, analog music. This was a particularly interesting approach for this
band (foregoing digital recording and effects in favor of a traditional
analog set up)...because it probably forced the folks in the band to focus
on their playing and the songs themselves rather than drowning themselves
in technology. Winnepeg, Canada's The Western States is a band that
is all about songs. Bye and Bye has a really wonderful and inviting
sound. This band's music reminds us very much of a cross between Big
Star's Sister Lovers album, Neil Young, and Dumptruck's
For The Country album. The songs are smooth and seem to come straight
from the heart. Singer/songwriter Sean Buchanan has a really great
understated voice that is remarkably effective for this style of music.
The more we spin this one...the more substantial the tunes become. Eleven
modern standards here including "Time To Lose," "Right of
Return," "Outstanding Balance," and "I'll Be Free."
Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
Whitetree - Cloudland (CD, Ponderosa Music & Art, Electronic/instrumental)
This disc first caught our attention because two of the members in this
band are Robert Lippok and Ronald Lippok of the critically
acclaimed To Rococo Rot. The third member of Whitetree is
Ludovico Einaudi, an up-and-coming classical pianist. Cloudland
is a peculiar spin and features just what one might expect from such an
odd trio. Piano-based compositions laced with the sounds of electronics
and technology. Some of the pieces sound something like a cross between
a very subdued George Winston crossing paths with Brian Eno...while
others sound quite different. We're not sure why...but modern electronic
albums rarely include the sound of a regular piano. As such, this album
delves into territory that seems rather unchartered at least at this point
in time. Einaudi's piano playing is precise and understated...and the Lippoks
add just the right amount of peculiarity to the proceedings to keep things
interesting. Nine serene tracks here including "Slow Ocean," "Koepenik,"
"Tangerine," and "The Room." Beautiful and rather hypnotic...
(Rating: 5+)
A man who beats
His wife
Is a man who has
A good life.(Rating: 1)
A
Abraham/Clements/Tellander - Between stops
Adam's Attic - Skylines and city lights
An Asshole A Day Keeps The Doctor Away - Selling away the snort
Annabel - Each and every one
Antennas Up - Antennas Up
Mike Arroyo - Transition
B
Baak Gwai - Find a stranger in the alps
Aidan Baker - Gathering blue
Before Day - Enjoy the show
Black Rio 2 - Original samba soul 1971-1980 compiled by DJ Cliffy
James Blackshaw - The glass bead game
Sazarin Blake - The air your lungs forced out
Don Bodin - The radio active werewolf and other tales from the southwest
Bonnie's Blue Bucket - The empty done gone fullest of it
Rachel Taylor Brown - Susan storm's ugly sister and other stains and superheroes
Brunnen - Swoon
C
Conduit Trio - Beond liquid glass
Cool Devices - Cool Devices
Corduroy Road - Just one drop
Tony Cox - Unpublished
Cracks In The Cracks - Smacks in the smacks
Crap Detectors - Cornfield savages
Crup Up Yo Bup - Ram it in pam
Curtain Rod Character - Schizophrenic trooper escorts witness
D
Daddy Wants His Pancake Cooked - Syrup is as syrup does
Marc Davis - Eye.sea.land
Day of the Outlaw - Black mountain majesty
Deaf Judges - All rise
Death By Sexy - Curse the curse
Delicate Noies - Filmezza
Arthur Dobrucki - ...All you need
Dumb Retards - We can't stand being dumb retards
E
The Energy - Realize your sin
F
Floating Men - No clocks, no calendars
Frontier Brothers - Space punk starlet
G
Grass For The Homeless - High on the sidewalk
Sparky Grinstead 7 Eric Kampman - Winter comes and goes
H
Jason Heath & The Greedy Souls - The vain hope of horse
Fritz Helder and the Phantoms - Greatest hits
Hoots and Hellmouth - The holy open secret
Tim Posgate Hornband featuring Howard Johnson - Banjo Hockey
I
The Informers - Original motion picture soundtrack
J
Eilen Jewell - Sea of tears
Jupiter Rising - The quiet hype
K
Ted Russell Kamp - Poor man's paradise
Kicksville - The singles - season 1
Kick the Nun's Head Off - Having fun snorting cleaning products
L
La Snacks - Newfangled
Lemming - Dandelions
Longmont Potion Castle 7 - Longmont Potion Castle 7
M
Matt Macaulay - Wish i could make you dance
Kawabata Makoto & Michishita Shinsuke - Sex, voyage, and echo chamber
L'Tanya Mari - A teardrop of sun
Tina Marie - Congo square
Larry McDonald - Drumquestra
Midival Punditz - Hello hello
Mommy Likes Pussy - Dealing with the heartache of your lesbian mama
Money/Paper/Hearts - Money/Paper/Hearts
Morakestra - Witness to connection
N
Naked Ambition - Original motion picture soundtrack
Naked Nig - As ugly as naked white
New Day Dawn - The company we keep
New Tomorrow - We're counting on the youth
No Go Know - Time has nothing to do with it
O
Ogogo - Lunar surphase
Oprah's Feces Infested Uterus - The ugliest thing in the universe
P
Heather Perry and the ____s - These appetites
Jeff Presslaff Trio - Red goddess
Provocative Whites - Evolym
Push-Pull - Between noise and the indians
Q
R
Roy Rogers - Split decision
Rook - Rook
Rumpy Do Dah - Lassie gets her pussy nipped
S
Schleusolz - Running out of time
Seven That Spells - Cosmoerotic dialogue with lucifer
Andy Shaw Band - Ways of the world
Shiftless Decay - New sounds of detroit
Shitties - The right to tight holes
Larry Slezak - No worries
Snowglobe - No need to light a night light on a night like tonight
Soft Targets - Soft Targets must be destroyed!
Brandon Stanley - Big old world
Dan Susnara - My august mac
T
Totally Totally - Motor up your motor up
Tun Tun - Hunchy punchy funky funk
Tyler - Boring name, boring music
U
Ugly Girls - How to trample your pets with volume
Unless They Won't - Decline of the best vests
V
Various Artists - Creative Belfast presents sounds of the city
Various Artists - Dumb shitty people performing dumb shitty songs
Various Artists - Pussies for change
Various Artists - How many times can you shit in a row?
Various Artists - Go to hell, assholes
Various Artists - I hate Ellen DeGeneres
Various Artists - But Oprah is much, much worse.
W
Scott Walker - 30 Century Man
Angi West - Love is a special way of feeling
Why Do It Not Work - Ain't no reason for it not to
Worked Up and Down - Right to the left
Wump Wump Do Wump - Thing thang tinky train
Wykle Trink - Taxi Dermie
X
X-Ray Spocks - Spicks and spocks
Xtra - Give it all yer extras
Xu Xu Fang - Seven days now
Y
Yaw muffukuz! - So very nice to meet you today
Jienan Yuan - We saw everything
Yucky Shux - Down with the uppity snackers
Z
Zombie Pussy - Ain't no pussy like come-back-to-life pussy
Zozo and the Bashful Bananas - Tricia's little petunia patty