March 2014 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews
from 
aka 
Tetuzi Akiyama & Anla Courtis
- Naranja Songs (CD, Public
Eyesore, Abstract/sound/experimental)
The guitar is one of the most abused and overplayed instruments on the planet.
Most guitarists use so many notes when so few are actually necessary. That
is perhaps why Naranja Songs sounds so completely and totally out
of place. Although this is a guitar album, it presents the instrument in
a way in which it is rarely heard. The instrument is played very methodically
and slowly with more of an emphasis on individual sounds and notes than
melodies. These compositions sound something like a cross between modern
jazz, minimalist noise, ambient, and modern classical. These two musicians
play the guitar in ways that we've never heard it played before...and that
is really saying something. Four puzzling pieces here: "Mind Mochileros,"
"Springs & Strings," "The Citrico Vibe," and "Los
Frets Nomades." Bizarre and sometimes chilling. You can always expect
the unexpected from the folks at Public Eyesore.
A Night With Janis Joplin - Original Broadway Cast Recording (CD, Broadway,
Broadway cast recording)
If you're a Janis Joplin fan you're almost certain to be blown away
by Mary Bridget Davies' performance in this Broadway show...because
she sounds almost exactly like Janis. The phrasing is the same...the
tonal qualities are the same...even her overall vibe is the same.
This show and cast recording was presented in association with The Estate
of Janis Joplin and Jeffrey Jampol for Jam, Inc....so you know
this is the real deal. During the course of the show Davies belts out credible
renditions of classics like "Summertime," "Try (Just A Little
Bit Harder)," "Cry Baby," "Ball and Chain," "Stay
With Me" and more. One of the real treasures here is the inclusion
of the song "I'm Gonna Rock My Way To Heaven" which was written
by Jerry Ragovoy for Joplin just prior to her death. The backing
band sounds fantastic. Here's hoping they make this one into a film so we
can all enjoy the show (!)...
Art
Decade - Art Decade (Independently released
CD, Pop)
This is a very impressive independently recorded and released album from
the guys in Art Decade. So many folks record and release their own
music these days but few do it with as much style and finesse as this band.
This self-titled album presents ten wonderfully dreamy melodic progressive
pop cuts that have their own unique sound. This disc arrived in our trusty
mailbox without any accompanying information. And when we went to the web
site (link above) to find out more about the band all we found were social
network links and a cool music video for the sixth track ("Numberless
Dreams") on this album. We can't come up with any obvious comparisons
or possible influences here...although these songs seem to incorporate sounds
and ideas from a countless number of other classic artists from the past
and present. These tracks are smart and intricate and they feature some
absolutely beautiful vocals. The more we spin this album the better it sounds.
Kickass cuts include "No One's Waiting," "Walking Together,"
"Numberless Dreams," and "All That's Left." Totally
satisfying from start to finish. TOP PICK.
Michael
Barry-Rec - Continuum (Independently
released CD, Instrumental)
This is one you probably won't pick up on unless someone else turns you
onto it. Not because the music isn't beautiful or enticing...but because
the artist is not choosing to use the usual methods of marketing in order
to sell the music. This album doesn't feature fancy artwork. The artist
isn't playing the artist/superstar role here, there are no photos of him
on the cover. There are no trendy tie-ins, no technological gimmicks...actually,
there are no gimmicks at all here. Just pure good music from a man who knows
what he's doing. Continuum is the third full-length release from
North Carolina's Michael Barry-Rec. Michael plays various instruments
but is probably best known for playing the lap steel guitar. This guy is
good. This thirteen track album features compositions that flow by
like a cool mountain stream. The overall sound is relaxed and organic...very
somber and soothing. Interestingly, George Winston plays piano on
one track ("Sanctum"). This disc features music that is resilient
and moving. Perfect reflective music. Simply...beautiful.
B is for Bunny.
B is for Bash.
B is for Bouncy.
C is for Cash.
Black
Sails - A Starz Original Series Soundtrack:
Music by Bear McCreary
(CD, Sparks and Shadows,
Soundtrack)
Yet another great soundtrack recording by one of the busiest men
in the universe...Mr. Bear McCreary. Not only is McCreary one of
the most productive people in the world of soundtrack composition, but he
has also recently started his own label called Sparks and Shadows. The soundtrack
to the film Black Sails presented a new challenge...to create stripped
down gritty music appropriate for a pirate film set in 1715. In creating
music for this film, Bear says that his "goal was to create music
that sounds improvised by an exhausted crew aboard a ship navigating choppy
waters" and that he "had to rethink [his] entire creative
process and unlearn the results of a lifetime of classical music study."
Not surprisingly, once again he has succeeded admirably. We love McCreary's
soundtracks that feature plenty of big orchestral bursts...but we equally
appreciate his more subdued and creative form of composition. This twenty-one
track album clocks in at almost 80 minutes (!)...and during the course of
those 80 minutes these tracks slide and swerve all over the place and back.
McCreary's creative genius can be heard on clever inventive cuts like "Theme
From Black Sails," "Wondrous Love," "Clamanda,"
and "Pieces of Eight." Top notch stuff from one of the great masters
of twenty-first century film music.
The
Bremen Riot - PM Magazine (Independently
released vinyl LP, Pop/rock)
The Bremen Riot is the Austin, Texas-based band comprised of Michael
Crow (guitar, vocals), Channing Lewis (guitar, vocals), Alex
Livingstone (bass, vocals), Mike Nicolai (vocals), and Ned
Stewart (drums). Nicolai is also a solo artist and the rest of the guys
are in another band called Grand Champeen. These guys have a really
cool and direct rockin' sound that reminds us very much of very early recordings
by Seattle, Washington's Young Fresh Fellows. At a point in time
when so many artists and bands are getting caught up in the glut of sound
that technology breeds, the guys in The Bremen Riot have the good common
sense to keep things simple. And of course all you really need are the basics...when
you've got great songs. And great songs are what make PM Magazine
such a killer spin. These songs are simple, fresh, and catchy as Hell. This
is just the jolt we needed this month to remind us why we started writing
about music in the first place. Exciting stuff here, played with enthusiasm
and balls. Killer cuts include "Hey Joe!", "Alibi Bros.",
"Keep Your Head," and "Eyeroller." We'll be spinning
this one into the ground this spring and summer... Top pick.
Eddie
Brnabic & The Cosmic Fellowship - Subtle
Realms (Independently released CD-R, Rock/progressive/psychedelia)
The first two minute track on this album ("Voice of the Spirits")
gave us the impression we were in for a New Age experience...when in actuality
nothing could be further from the truth. This album is a collaboration between
Canada's Eddie Brnabic and The Cosmic Fellowship. And after
you get past that first track, the album explodes into a progressive psychedelic
rock experience. Yessssssss.... We're mighty big fans of some of
the more adventurous trippy British bands from the 1970s (stuff like Steve
Hillage, Gong, Clearlight Symphony). If you're like us
and dig that kinda sound, you'll find a lot to love on Subtle Realms.
The players on this album are Eddie Brnabic (guitars, keys, percussion),
Gregos Major (bass), Steven Rubio (drums), Stephan Cameron
(winds), and Dario Lapoma (keys). These guys play really cool progressive
psychedelic rock like there's no tomorrow. We can hear traces of stoner
rock threaded through these tracks as well. This is one of those cases where
the players are doing everything right. Nine groovy tracks to expand
your mind to the fullest. We'd be willing to bet these folks put on a killer
concert (at least that's what it looks like after viewing them live on YouTube).
Wildly provocative stuff.
Broken
Gold - Residency At Hundo Beach (CD
EP, End Sounds, Rock/pop)
Loud fuzzy abrasive modern rock/pop played at full volume. The Austin, Texas-based
band Broken Gold began back in 2008 when they released a 7"
vinyl single on the Good Friends label. The band's career was off to a great
start when lead vocalist Ian MacDougall (who was formerly in the
band Riverboat Gamblers) was involved in a terrible accident in which
his bike crashed into a truck. After surviving and recovering, Ian picked
up the ball and continued with the band but this time with a slightly different
overall sound. The tunes on Residency At Hundo Beach sound something
like a cross between shoegazer rock and modern fuzz pop. More than any other
band, these tracks remind us very much of 1990s rockers Swervedriver.
This EP is bound to ignite renewed interest in this ultra cool band. Six
nifty rockers here that feature great vocals and way cool guitars...
Aaron
Childree - Above The Norm (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Nice smooth melodic underground pop presented with style. Atlanta, Georgia's
Aaron Childree is yet another example of how far Atlanta-based musicians
have come in the past few decades. Whereas the city was once only known
for Southern rock and boogie bands, there's now a wealth of credible talent
all over the place. And Aaron Childree is a good example of the new sound
of Atlanta. Above The Norm features ten intelligent tracks that sound
something like a more subdued and accessible Guided By Voices. These
songs feature smart lyrics, catchy melodies, and arrangements that are a
perfect fit for each track. From the sounds we're hearing on this album,
we'd guess that this guy is off and running on what will be a long and rewarding
career. Smooth reflective cuts include "It Starts With A Spark,"
"All Of Us Can Rise," and "Dare To Be."
The
Cold And Lovely - Ellis Bell (Independently
released CD EP, Pop)
Intriguing modern pop from the all female quartet The Cold And Lovely.
These enchanting ladies write and record music that has more in common with
artistic groups in Europe than their home base of Los Angeles, California.
The band is driven by the songwriting skills of Meghan Toohey who
was previously in The Weepies, Lenka, and Schuyler Fisk.
Mixed and mastered by Dave Cooley (who has worked with Silversun
Pickups and M83), the Ellis Bell EP presents six groovy
tracks that combine the pop sensibilities of the 1980s with the shoegazer
sound of the 1990s. This is a very strong EP that features great gliding
melodies and superb reverb-drenched vocals. All six songs are way cool but
our initial favorites are "Doll," "Red Eye," and "Repetition."
Love it.
Moot
Davis - Goin' In Hot (CD, Crow Town, Country/pop)
Groovy upbeat boot tappin' music from Moot Davis. This guy's got
a slick sound that should appeal to music fans all over the world...and
he's got the looks and presence to go all the way. Moot's career seems to
be on a permanent rise to the top lately, but it wasn't always that way.
After recording two albums that were released on the Little Dog label, Davis
ended up in what the press release calls "label limbo." During
that period he considered giving up music entirely. But it wasn't long before
he was released from his contract with Little Dog and he celebrated by recording
Man About Town. That album received a great deal of attention and
praise which gave Davis the momentum and support he needed. But the problems
didn't end there. Just after Goin' In Hot was mixed down the studio
where it was recorded burned down. Incredibly, an engineer extracted the
mixes from the hard drive of his damaged computer and the album was salvaged.
Interestingly, the album had already been given its title (?!!). This CD
should appeal to folks who love honky tonk, rock, country, blues, and pop.
Moot's got a great voice and his songs are gripping and upbeat. Thirteen
solid cuts here including "Goin' In Hot," "Used To Call It
Love," "The Reason," and "Lights."
Death
of Samantha - If Memory Serves Us Well
(CD, St. Valentine, Rock)
At the risk of admitting how truly unhip we are (and always have been),
we don't mind stating here that until now we have never properly been introduced
to the music of Death of Samantha. Considering how popular the band
was among ultra-hipsters in the 1980s that seems peculiar. But for some
reason either no one gave us any of the band's releases or we never happened
upon it in our yard sale buying sprees. Though this album presents material
that the band recorded in their heyday, these are not the original
recordings. Before playing a reunion concert in December 2011 the band went
into a studio and recorded new versions of their old songs. The album actually
provides an answer to the title If Memory Serves Us Well. Apparently
the band members remember the material very well because this is a gripping
recollection of eighteen rockers. We can't compare and contrast to the originals
because...we never actually heard them. We'd be willing to bet that
the band's original fans are happy as heck that these guys are playing together
again. For folks like us who were never initiated...well then, this just
might serve as the perfect introduction. If you like killer guitars, you'll
find plenty of 'em here. Meaty, rough, and raw.
Doctor
Who - The 50th Anniversary Collection: Original
Television Soundtrack (Double CD, Silva
Screen, Soundtrack)
The is a somewhat different collection of music from the popular Doctor
Who television series. Rather than feature music by one composer from
one season, this double disc set focuses on music that is associated with
the eleven doctors that were featured on the show from 1963 to 2013. Composers
featured here include Tristram Cary, Brian Hodgson, Dudley Simpson, Geoffrey
Burgon, Paddy Kingsland, Roger Limb, Malcolm Clarke, Keff McCulloch, Dominic
Glynn, John Debney, and more. Fourty-five tracks in all and the package
includes a nifty thick booklet with photos of the doctors. The folks at
Silva Screen really outdid themselves this time. This package will not only
please fans of the television series...but also just about anyone else who
loves exciting and provocative soundtrack music. Disc One covers the period
from 1963 to 1986 while Disc Two covers 1986 to 2013. Very cool.
Wyatt
Easterling - Goodbye-Hello (CD, Phoenix
Rising, Soft pop)
You might not recognize Wyatt Easterling by name but you've certainly
heard his influence in the world of music. He released his first album way
back in 1981 on the Moonlight/Warner Bros. label. In 1990 he was hired as
the head of the A&R department for Atlantic Records in Nashville. He
then became involved with the Bugie Publishing Group (with Miles Copeland)
and Firstars Management before once again devoting his time to songwriting.
Over the years Easterling has been involved with a whole slew of well-known
artists including Dierks Bentley, Joe Diffie, Billy Joe
Royal, Robbie Hecht, and many more. But, just as is the case
with most songwriters, his real passion is most likely recording his own
songs. Goodbye-Hello recalls the heyday of 1970s soft radio pop that
was heard on FM stations across the country. These mid-tempo tracks are
easy on the ears and have a nice laidback feel. Wyatt has a sound and style
that could easily appeal to millions upon millions of listeners. These songs
are instantly familiar and yet they resonate with the sound and energy of
a man who loves what he's doing. He's got a great smooth soulful voice that
is perfectly suited for the kind of songs he writes. Eleven well-crafted
tunes here including "Why Did It Take So Long?", "Right Before
My Eyes," and "A Soldier Comes Home."
F.
Gerard Errante - The Lyric Clarinet
(CD, Ravello, Classical)
Two instruments we love individually...but rarely hear enough of together...are
the piano and the clarinet. On this album the clarinet is expertly combined
with the piano to create some absolutely beautiful music. Jointed by Philip
Fortenberry, Voltaire Verzosa, and D. Gause on the piano,
clarinet player F. Gerard Errante proves that the instrument can
indeed provide the perfect focal point. The twenty-one selections on this
album cover a lot of ground. The disc includes pieces written by German,
French, and North and South American composers. These compositions are rather
sparse in overall sound, using only the essentials in order to get the point
across. Errante was a Professor of Music at Norfolk State University for
three decades, has been an Artist-in-Residence at the Sydney Conservatorium,
and received the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2005 from the International
Clarinet Association. F. Gerard is on top of his game here, playing with
fluid confidence. This album is smooth, provocative, and intricate. If you
love classical duos, this is a must have...
Massimo
Falascone - Variazioni
Mumacs: 32 Short Mu-Pieces About Macs (CD, Public
Eyesore, Experimental)
Massimo Falascone is part of the experimental underground in the
world of music. He has played and recorded with a whole slew of artists
around the globe and has recorded numerous albums. Falascone plays saxophones,
composes electroacoustic music, writes music for the theater, documentaries,
and installations. He also teaches, conducts workshops, and classes. And
yet...his name is probably only known to a relatively small segment of the
population most likely due to the fact that he chooses to focus on strange
experimental stuff instead of commercial music. Thus, as you might expect,
Variazioni Mumacs: 32 Short Mu-Pieces About Macs is a strange and
curious spin. This album does indeed feature 32 compositions...all of which
would be far too peculiar and abstract for the casual listener. It's almost
impossible to really describe these pieces, you just have to hear them and
draw your own conclusions. Folks who only like catchy hits are warned to
stay away...far away. Folks who appreciate the stranger side of music...will
find a wealth of material to appreciate here. Truly mind expanding and slightly
surreal.
Fathom
Lane - Fathom Lane (CD, Longplayer,
Progressive pop)
The second full-length release from Fathom Lane. Recorded at The
Pearl Recording Studio in Minneapolis, Minnesota, this self-titled album
features smart, well-arranged, modern moody pop with a difference. We liked
the band's debut album (Down By Half)...but this one's even more
entertaining and satisfying. This band is driven by the songwriting skills
of a young fellow named Michael Ferrier. This guy has a great knack
for coming up with friendly sincere tunes and he has a voice that really
adds magical qualities. Ten tracks that clock in at just over forty-three
minutes...and there's not a bad track to be heard. The more we spin this
disc the better these tracks sound. Initial favorites include "Lazy,"
"Sugardown," "Waltzing Blue Jesus," and "Golden
Delicious." Great driving music for spring. Top pick.
The
Grip Weeds - Inner Grooves (Rare and Under-Released
Tracks) (CD, Ground Up, Pop)
New Jersey's Grip Weeds have certainly captured their intended share
of the marketplace. For folks who love the British Invasion of the 1960s,
the poppier side of Utopia, and The Beatles, there's no group
who effectively captures the sound of all three as well as these folks.
For any other band, Inner Grooves would be the album they'd been
hoping to record for decades. But for the folks in The Grip Weeds, the album
is simply a collection of unreleased tracks that are only now being made
available to the public. Rarely have we heard a collection of rare and unreleased
tracks that so closely simulates the sound of a brand new album. The mastering
on these tracks is so slick and exceptional that you don't even get the
impression that there are any time lapses between recording sessions. These
tracks shine and shimmer with the chiming guitars and vocal harmonies that
the band's fans have come to know and love. If you love The Grip Weeds,
you're sure to love this album. If you've never heard the band, well...this
will serve as a great introduction. Killer cuts include "Nothing Lasts,"
"She Don't Care About Time," "Sight Unseen," and "Sun
Ra Ga." We've yet to hear anything by this band that we didn't
love.
Tom
Griesgraber & Bert Lams - Unnamed Lands (Independently released CD, Instrumental/guitar)
If you love tasty intricate stringed instruments you're gonna love
this. These two fellows have been playing music together since 2004. Tom
Griesgraber plays an instrument called the Chapman Stick. In case you're
not familiar with this (we weren't until now), this is a twelve string guitar
and bass hybrid that is played like a piano in which the fingers of both
hands are used to sound notes. Not only does Tom play the instrument but
he is also one of the few folks on the planet who actually composes music
for it. Bert Lams is best known as a member of the California
Guitar Trio. In 1980 Lams was the first laureate for the National Music
Contest for Youth in Brussels and later taught at the Brussels Academy of
Music. He also studied guitar with Robert Fripp before co-founding
the California Guitar Trio. So, as you may have already guessed, this is
not an amateur home recording by folks who have just learned how to play.
Unnamed Lands features fourteen precisely crafted instrumentals.
Griesgraber and Lams play together with exquisite skill. And the results
are ultimately beautiful and resilient. It is rare that we hear an independent
release this perfectly executed. This will easily end up being one of our
top favorite instrumental albums of 2014. Killer tracks include "Unnamed
Lands," "A Letter Home," "Smoke Signals," and "Pacific."
Top pick.
Heavy Jelly - Heavy Jelly (CD, Angel
Air, Pop/rock)
Yet another cool gem unearthed by the folks at Great Britain's Angel
Air label. After being the first artist ever signed to The Beatles'
Apple label in the late 1960s, Jackie Lomax joined the band Heavy
Jelly. In addition to Lomax, the band was comprised of Alex Dmochowski
(bass), Barry Jenkins (drums), and John Morshead (lead guitar,
vocals). Because of contractual problems this album was never properly released.
Thus, until now, the music was only available as a bootleg recording. These
bluesy pop/rock tracks have held up surprisingly well over the years and
will likely now find an entirely new audience. Interestingly, one track
on the album features Pete Ham and Tom Evans (of Badfinger)
on harmony vocals while another includes Bobby Keys and Jim Price
(the wind section for The Rolling Stones). It seems incredible that
music like this could be held up for so long in contractual limbo. In any
event, it's finally available...much to the delight of music fans around
the world..
King
of Prussia - Zonian Girls (Independently
released CD, Pop)
We were pleased to receive this one because we've enjoyed prior releases
from King of Prussia. The band is the project driven by the creative
skills of Brandon Hanick, a fellow who seems driven to continually
create and make credible connections in the world of music. This time around,
Hanick has recorded a concept album dealing with the lighter and darker
sides of the human psyche. The album features over twenty guest musicians
and songs that go all over the map and back. This is, perhaps, the most
mature and well-realized King of Prussia release to date. Brandon has focused
and fine-tuned his craft over the years and all that hard work and dedication
are obvious here. Twenty songs that generally fit into the progressive pop/rock
category. These smart cuts feature nice winding melodies and exceptional
vocals...and virtually every one has something substantial to offer. Hanick
has really outdone himself this time around. Intriguing.
Knights
of Badassdom - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack:
Music by Bear McCreary
(CD, Sparks & Shadows,
Pop)
Yet another soundtrack from the ultimately prolific composer Bear
McCreary. Knights of Badassdom is a modern day Medieval comedy
with some gore thrown in for good measure. We just finished watching the
trailer for this film and...it appears that this one will provide plenty
of laughs. The dialogue alone sounds kinda hilarious. We've heard McCreary's
soundtracks for plenty of films but this is the first time we've heard him
compose for a comedy. It's also the first soundtrack we've heard that incorporates
vocals from Bear's brother Brendan McCreary. This album features
instrumental medieval-influenced cuts as well as rockers. This is a different
sort of soundtrack album for music lovers...as well as a different sort
of comedy for film goers. Seventeen cuts here including "The Kingdom
of Eliphaz," "Your Heart Sucks My Soul," "Earn Our Valor,"
and "At The Gates."
Minces and pieces
From honesty stems.
The nurses and snickers
Pick holiday pins.
Machine
Mass Featuring Dave Liebman - Inti (CD,
Moonjune, Progressive/instrumental)
Fluid and mentally challenging progressive instrumentals from the trio of
Dave Liebman, Tony Bianco, and Michel Delville. You
might not recognize these men by their names but you've surely heard them
before. Liebman has played saxophone for Miles Davis, Elvin Jones,
and more. Bianco has played drums for Elton Dean, Paul Dunmall, Evan
Parker, and douBt and Delville has played wuitar with The
Wrong Ojbect and douBt. Inti is a free-flowing exploration
into free-form improvisation. All three of these guys are hot as heck on
their respective instruments. And on these lengthy tracks they feed off
one another as if they've played together since birth. This album sounds
something like a cross between progressive rock bands from the 1970s mixed
with twenty-first century modern jazz. Truly creative stuff here played
with focused confidence. This hour long album features nine tracks including
"Inti," "Centipede," "A Sight," "The
Secret Place," and "Voice." Captivating and unusual. Bound
to be on many "best of" lists for 2014...
Mahayla - Electricspaceagesweetheart (CD, Serial
Lover, Pop)
We're not exactly sure why...but we rarely hear underground bands from New
Orleans, Louisiana. Mahayla is an up-and-coming underground pop band
based in New Orleans. They have a sound that is totally upbeat and instantly
appealing. No harsh underground noise here and no gothic or shoegazer tendencies
whatsoever. The songs on Electricspaceagesweetheart are pure pop
compositions where lyrics and melodies are the kings for a day. Mahayla
is driven by the songwriting skills of David Fera was was previously
in the band Big Blue Marble. Rounding out the band are Ike Aguilar
(guitar, keyboards, mandolin, vocals), Chris Johnson (bass), Mark
Davis (drums), and Yanti Turang (vocals, keyboards). If you dig
the sound of underground guitar pop bands from the 1990s you'll find a lot
to appreciate here. Eleven nifty cuts including "Bestie," Just
Call," "Sitting At The Table," "Good Old Days,"
and "End of Your Creation."
Kalle
Mattson - Someday, The Moon Will Be Gold
(CD, Parliament of Trees,
Progressive pop)
Smart lyric-driven pop from Canada's Kalle Mattson. The first track
on Someday, The Moon Will Be Gold is a bit heavy on the cymbals at
times which had us concerned. But as soon as the second cut began we knew
there was more here than first met the ears. Mattson writes and records
songs that are basically pop in overall sound and scope but the lyrics push
the music into a much higher arena. Fortunately, there's a cool lyric booklet
included with this album which makes it easier to discern the words. Who
does Kalle sound like? Hard to say really. In some ways his approach reminds
us of Bright Eyes...but that doesn't really give a good indication
of what's going on here. Mattson's songs are personal and intelligent and
he knows the use of restraint. Twelve imaginative cuts here including "Darkness,"
"The Moon Is Gold," "Pick Me Up," and "Amelie."
This is the kinda stuff that might not sink in on the first spin...it kinda
grows on you the more you hear it...
Grainne
Mulvey - Akanos & Other Works (CD,
Navona, Classical/experimental)
This is easily one of the strangest albums we've heard from the folks
at Navona...and that's saying something (!). Ireland's Grainne Mulvey
composes music that is odd, perplexing, and spooky. Her compositions fit
somewhere in that space where classical meets avante garde. Unlike some
modern classical composers whose music is all but unlistenable, Mulvey incorporates
enough melodic elements into her pieces to make them inviting while always
pushing things into the next unusual universe. Akanos & Other Works
presents seven of Mulvey's works. This music is not recommended for fans
of traditional classical music. These pieces sound something like the more
experimental classical side of Frank Zappa (think 200 Motels)...while
also sounding something like the soundtrack to an Alfred Hitchcock
film that was never made. The bizarre nature of this music makes it quite
difficult to describe. Suffice to say...if you appreciate music that goes
outside the borders of familiarity...there's a good chance you'll find this
album exciting and unusual. This may be too far out for folks who like their
music safe and familiar. But those who appreciate music that expands minds...will
absolutely fall in love with this one. Magical and truly different. Top
pick.
Bill
Nelson - Getting The Holy Ghost Across
(Double CD, Cocteau
Discs, Progressive pop)
We've been fans of Bill Nelson for a very long time. We went nuts
over his 1970s band Be Bop Deluxe and have been impressed with anything/everything
that the man has produced since. This is a newly remastered reissue of Bill's
1986 album Getting The Holy Ghost Across that has been expanded to
a double disc set that includes the complete recordings he made for the
Portrait Records label (the second disc contains the Portrait singles and
EPs, three cuts being offered here for the first time on CD). While Bill
continues to receive well-deserved recognition and admiration in Great Britain
for his massive output over the years (he has released a staggering amount
of material), he has been--for the most part--criminally overlooked in the
United States. Considering how much great music this man has recorded, this
seems insane. Folks in America will support and worship the worst of the
worst (just look at what people are supporting and buying in America
in 2014...eeeeeeeeyuccccCCCHHHH...). If you're already a Bill Nelson
fan then you probably either already have this or it's on your want list.
If you've never heard Nelson...any of his numerous albums will serve as
an excellent introduction. Getting The Holy Ghost Across was recorded
during a particularly fertile period in Bill's career. These songs will
probably remind many listeners of David Bowie (who he has been compared
to countless times over the years even though the similarities are only
slight). But in reality the music is so much more depthy than such a comparison
mighty imply. This set features twenty-one tracks and a beautifully designed
lyric booklet. Anyone who loves great moody modern pop needs to hear this.
Highly recommended... TOP PICK.
The
New Mendicants - Into The Lime (CD,
Ashmont, Pop)
The guys in The New Mendicants have an instant built-in audience.
The band is the trio comprise of Joe Pernice (The Pernice Brothers),
Norman Blake (Teenage Fanclub), and Mike Belisky (The
Sadies). So...if you love any of these guys' previous bands, there's
a good chance you're gonna dig Into The Lime. As you might guess,
the songs on this album are pure upbeat melodic guitar pop with great melodies
and heavenly harmonies. All of these songs were co-written by all three
band members...and they're all super smooth and cool. If you're a fan of
1990s pop, this may be one of your favorite albums of the year. All of the
tracks hit the target but our initial favorites include ""Sarasota,"
"Cruel Annette," "If You Only Knew Her," and "Out
of the Lime." Top pick.
There is
No business.
There never has been any
Business.
Ian
O'Beirne - Glasswork (Independently
released CD, Jazz)
The debut full-length release from Philadelphia's Ian O'Beirne. Ian
is a saxophonist, woodwind doubler, composer, and educator. He also plays
with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and the ten-piece ensemble Slowburn.
With the release of Glasswork, O'Beirne steps into the spotlight
as a solo artist and the music is pure magic. Backing Ian on this
album are Tim Wendel on guitar, Tim Brey on Fender Rhodes,
Kurt Kotheimer on upright bass, and Matt Scaranao on drums.
This album features eleven tracks of smooth pensive jazz that is presented
simply without a lot of unnecessary ingredients. O'Beirne plays one mean
saxophone. His playing is both focused and spontaneous...providing what
just might be the perfect mood music for that special romantic evening at
home. Groovy cuts include "Glasswork," "Dreamwake,"
"Paradigm City," and "Sarah Sings."
The
Olympic Symphonium - Chance To Fate
(CD, Forward Music Group,
Pop)
The fourth full-length release from Canada's Olympic Symphonium.
Produced by Joshua Van Tassel (who has worked with Great Lake
Swimmers and David Myles among others), Chance To Fate
presents eleven beautifully crafted moody modern pop compositions. The album
isn't easy and simple when it comes to lyrics. Song topics deal with issues
like life, loss, religion, and self-doubt. You might think, therefore, that
these tunes would have a heavy-handed sound or feel. But instead the opposite
is true. These tracks are, for the most part, light and easy on the ears.
The songs have cool flowing qualities that make them easy to hear time and
time again without ever sounding tired or predictable. Though these guys
have toured all over the world in the past, they've stayed close to home
for the past couple of years concentrating on writing and recording and
curating their Shivering Songs Winter Festival in New Brunswick.
Pensive modern folky pop doesn't get much better than this. Killer tracks
include "Seize The Day," "Weak At The Knees," "Runner
Road," and "Chance To Fate." Great melodies, great arrangements,
great vocals, great songwriting...and a great overall vibe. This one's quite
a knockout... TOP PICK.
Rabbit
and the Hare - Rabbit and the Hare (Independently
released CD-R, Pop)
Rabbit and the Hare is a band driven by the team of Neill MacCallum
and Marisa Duchowny. The pair came into contact with one another
through an advertisement Neill put on Craigslist. The band also includes
Matt Musty (drums, percussion), Danielle Merlis (cello, piano),
Arthur Salwen (bass), and Nick Bockrath (guitar). This self-titled
debut features ten smart, smooth, understated pensive pop songs. These cuts
are threaded with lots of classic ideas and the main emphasis is on lyrics
and vocals. Hard to say exactly who this band sounds like because
they incorporate ideas from a whole slew of other artists...but no exact
one comes to mind. This cool disc clocks in at just over thirty minutes
and gets better the more you spin it. Our favorite cuts include "Roll
The Dice," "Fragile Things," "Kissing The Girl,"
and "In Your Arms." Classy stuff with a timeless classic sound.
Robocop - Original Motion Picture Soundtrack: Music by Pedro Bromfman
(CD, Sony Classical,
Soundtrack)
We're big fans of the original Robocop film so we were kinda surprised
to see that there's a new version of the film. Surprised mainly because
the original was so good, how could it possibly be improved upon? Although
we haven't yet seen the 2014 Robocop, we did watch the preview and...we
have to admit it looks pretty damn slick. Probably the biggest improvement
is Robocop himself. Using the latest technology, he has been amped up into
a true technological wonder. Although we can't comment on the entire film
yet, we can report that we're blown away by the soundtrack featuring music
by Pedro Bromfman. We have to hand it to the folks at Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
Pictures (MGM) and Columbia Pictures for choosing Pedro to do the music.
Big budget film scores tend to be dominated by a handful of composers. Bromfman
is a relative newcomer to the field, having only composed two film scores
in the past. In Bromfman's own words, his mission here was to "blend
acoustic and electronic instruments. Like RoboCop himself, part man, part
machine, the music needed to be a hybrid." Plenty of high tech
compositions here where technology is combined with an 80-piece orchestra.
After seeing the preview and heaving the soundtrack...we are now looking
forward to actually seeing the new film and to see how it compares
to the original.
The duck says Meow.
The horse says Meow.
The mouse says Meow.
The grocer says Meow.
The antelope says Meow.
The fluid says Meow.
The flower says Meow.
The computer says Meow.
The cloud says Meow.
The stinky says Meow.
The squirrel says Meow.
The cow says Meow.
The world says Meow.
Scoti
Slate - Good Fight (CD, Brightlife,
Pop/rock)
This one came as somewhat of a surprise to us. Housed in a relatively plain
and simple cover...is a super hard-hitting batch of modern pop/rock tunes
that really pack a punch. Scoti Slate is the duo of Aaron Scoti
and Lars Slate. These two guys have a loud gripping sound that is
somewhat reminiscent of industrial rock bands from the 1990s. The rhythms
are tight and precise...the guitars loud and in-your-face...and the vocals
delivered with true intensity. Aaron and Lars wrote all of the songs on
this album except one: "Twilight Zone" by Golden Earring
(which should give you some idea of where these guys are coming from). There
are so many wimpy pop bands in the twenty-first century. Scoti Slate is
a refreshing blast of loud crazy energy. Our favorite cuts include "Good
Fight," "Sprockets," "Fanatic," and "Magic
Number." Good solid stuff with balls.
The
Soft White Sixties - Get Right (Independently
released CD, Pop)
You may not have heard of The Soft White Sixties. But our guess is
that very soon you will be seeing and hearing a great deal about this California-based
band. These guys have a sound and image that should instantly appeal to
a wide range of music fans. The songs on Get Right immediately reminded
us of The Strokes...but with more of a funky soulful sound. A few
of the tunes even remind us of mid-period Sparks (?!). We pulled
up some of the band's videos only to find they've got the visual image that
is a perfect fit for the sound. And, more importantly, they have that certain
presence that captures and holds your attention. Get Right is a pure
solid jolt of catchy modern pop tunes that, in a perfect world, would be
hits. The vocals are prominent in the mix and the songs are driven by steady
propulsive beats. There's plenty of commercial potential here but the band's
music also has a slight artsy vibe that should appeal to fans of the underground.
Plenty of ultra-catchy cuts here. Our initial favorites include "City
Lights," "Lemon Squeeze," "Roll Away," and "Tilt-A-Whirl."
Jeremy
Spencer - Coventry Blue (CD, Propelz, Pop)
You might not immediately recognize the name Jeremy Spencer even
though he has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. But chances
are you're very familiar with Fleetwood Mac. If so, then you're also
very familiar with Jeremy Spencer. Jeremy made what was probably a smart
move artistically even though it meant losing out on a great deal of money.
In 1971 after getting a taste of big time success he left Fleetwood Mac.
While Spencer hasn't had the huge hit successes of his former band, in real
terms he has achieved much greater and lasting success. And that is mainly
because he has retained true to his dreams and desires rather than transform
into a money pig (which is what happens to most successful musicians). Coventry
Blue is yet another resilient collection of cool bluesy pop...and Spencer's
cool slide guitar has never sounded better. You won't hear calculated attempts
at hit songs here. This album presents smooth mature tracks that glide by
like clouds in the sky. Fifteen well-crafted cuts here including "Happy
Troubadour," "Sounds Like Paris," "Nightingale's Pledge,"
and "The World In Her Heart."
Spottiswoode
& His Enemies - English Dream (CD,
Old Soul, Pop)
More smooth moody smart pop from Spottiswoode & His Enemies.
Although not a huge commercial success...yet...Spottiswoode has certainly
caught on with a continually growing audience. His last album Wild Goosechase
Expedition earned him two independent music awards and his songs have
been included in a number of films and television shows. Recorded at Old
Soul Studios in Catskill, New York, English Dream offers more cool
reflective music with strange calming qualities. These are not catchy pop
songs. Rather, they are mature and slightly dreamy stream-of-consciousness
compositions with pensive drifting qualities. If you're looking for a quick
fix be aware of the fact that these songs get better the more you hear them.
There are lots of subtleties in terms of lyrics and sounds that only sink
in as you become familiar with the songs. Housed in a beautifully designed
tri-fold digipak sleeve, English Dream is yet another excellent addition
to the Spottiswoode catalog. Intriguing cuts include "Till My Dying
Day," "Genius Flower," "Who Were You, Baby?", and
"Melancholy Boy."
Sweet
Soubrette - Burning City (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Sweet Soubrette is a unique New York City-based band driven by the
voice and songwriting skills of a spellbinding young lady named Ellia
Bisker. The band released their first album (Siren Song) in 2008
and has been captivating audiences and listeners ever since. According to
the band web site, the latest album was "inspired by source material
as varied as troubled love, works of literature, extreme weather events,
and the promise of new romance, and they range from dark to transcendent,
playful to spellbinding." So...as you may be able to guess...this
is not simple mindless pop dribble. This is intelligent stuff delivered
with pure intent and integrity. If we were to sum up this album with one
word that word would probably be...eclectic. Bisker and her associates
present well-fleshed out songs that blur in and out of various genres, all
the while retaining a solid sense of artistic integrity and skill. Ellia's
got a great voice and overall presence. After scanning through the web site
we certainly get the impression that the live shows are a feast for the
eyes and ears. Ten smart well-crafted tracks here including "Rock
Paper Scissors," "Burning City," and "Homing Pigeon."
Reed
Turner - Ghosts In The Attic (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Nice smooth smart hummable pop with a slightly moody feel. This Austin,
Texas-based singer/songwriter makes music that could be appreciated by millions.
Ghosts In The Attic presents ten expertly written pop tunes that
are in the same general vein as Leonard Cohen. These songs have a
classic sound and feel, using traditional instruments in order to get the
point across. Turner has a great voice and knows how to use it. One thing
that sets these songs apart is the fact that many of them tell a story.
As such, Reed proves he is as good at writing lyrics as he is at crafting
melodies. This is a very solid album from start to finish and contains no
filler. Our initial favorite cuts include "Modern Man," "Killed
That Girl ('Cause She Was Killin' Me)," "Locking Doors,"
and "The Sculptor & The Stone."
Deem the plow for Waggy McPlease,
Seam all the busters and clusters of now.
Fan up the cow town and dust up the bonnets,
Straw buff the sonnets, for up ton and wow.
Ryan
Webster - The Point of Pointlessness
(CD, Cat Beach Music,
Progressive pop)
The debut full-length release from Ryan Webster. There's not a lot
of information to be found on the artist web site (link above) other than
the fact that the first album has been released (on CD as well as vinyl).
So apparently this musician is opting to let the music speak for itself.
A good move...because The Point of Pointlessness does that. The album
presents ten tracks that teeter in and out of Americana, pop, rock, and
folk. The first time we listened to this disc we couldn't determine exactly
how we felt about the music. But one thing was and is certain. This guy
isn't trying to copy or emulate other artists. Some of these tracks occasionally
remind us of Jay Farrar...but only slightly. Some songs are rather
moody while others take a more straightforward approach. After several spins
the thing that struck us most about this music is that it has staying power.
Standout cuts include "Sunrise," "Changes," "I
Want It All," and "Run Back Home To Me."
The
Wet Secrets - Free Candy (CD, Rawlco
Radio, Pop)
This Canadian band describes their sound as "the kind of music you
would expect to hear if The Stranglers piggybacked Herb Alpert
& The Tijuana Brass through the Rose Parade." Hmmm...interesting...
We would add The Strokes to those comparisons as well. Free
Candy is a different sort of album incorporating sounds and ideas from
classic artists from the past and present. These tracks should appeal to
folks who enjoy moving to music. These cuts have a nice thick sound with
plenty of overdubs and feature arrangements that are often complex and intricate.
This band's sound could easily catch on with underground hipsters around
the globe. Free Candy succeeds on many different labels. It's a great
escapist album that allows you to forget about your everyday concerns. Nifty
cuts include "Maybe We'll Make A Plan," "Floating In The
Sky," and "Death of the Party." Rockin' stuff with balls.
A
Activator - Activator
Seth Adam - Steel tempered pride
Amen Ittys - Pliers
Alana Amram & The Rogh Gems - Spring river
Amigo - Might coulc
Annette - Dream with me
Apollo Chamber Players - European folkscapes
Arrested Development - At long last...music ans songs from Arrested Development
August: Osage Countyk - Original motion picture soundtrack
Auris + Gino - Rub
B
Baby Baby - Big boy baller club
Sherman Baker - Sherman Baker
Bee Bee Bee Bee - Eee Eee Eee Eee
Erica Blinn - Lovers in the dust
Roger Bourland - Four quartets of songs and arias
Bowed Piano Ensemble - Ice and fire
Brushfire Stankgrass - Micro climntes
Ellen Burr / Michael Unruh - Where am i from, where am i going
Rosemary Butler - You just watch me
C
Che Prasad - Christmastime in the apocalypse
Che Prasad - Shiva me timbers
Susan Clynes - Life is...
David G. Cortes - Time away but home again
D
Frank Dibussolo Group - Songs to write home about
Doors - A psyche tribute to The Doors
Bob Dorough - Bob Dorough
Drockulette - Smock
E
Jace Everett - Terra rosa
Jace Everett Bad things
Ezzeethere - Not so...
F
Fair Ophelia - 2
Fankhauser Cassidy Band - On the blue road
Far West - Any day now
Foundations - Modern works in the clasical tradition
Carl Franklin - Been a while
Morgan Frazier - Morgan Frazier
Frozen - Original soundtrack
G
Nick Gallant - Wanderlust
Glass House - Long way down
Global Unified - Global Unified
Good Grief / Eureka California - Rusty nail & another round b/w Turn
on autopilot, DC sniper
Goodnight Tonight - Watch the rain
H
Hard Soul - Seize the year
Dave & Emma Hart - Hold on
Amanda Homi - Till I reach Bombay
Kandia Crazy Horse - Stampede
How the Grinch Stole Christmas! - The musical
I
Il Rumore Bianco - Mediocrazia
Intimate Dream - Wonderful thing
J
Noel Johnston - Salted coffee
Jokeless - Smoke free
Carolyn Lee Jones - The performer
Nate Jones Band - EP
Just A Machine - Piqured jacks
Just A Season - Just A Season
Just A Tarzan - Just A Tarzan
Just A Zoo - Just A Zoo
K
Kaak - Licked and licker
Kelly's Lot - Live in Brussels
Elly Kouri - I love you too much
Adrian Krygowski - Roam
Daniela Kuri - Sway
L
Lalama Brothers - Erie Ave.
Jacob Latham - Midnight train
Jackie Lomax - Against all odds
Michelle Langara - Songs of blue
Lowman - Garden of rainbows
Lucky Bone - Borderline
M
Machine Don't Lie - Nobody panic
Magnolia - Magnolia
Ray Majors - The 7% solution
Josh Matthews - A sides
Josh Matthews - Co-patriot
McCormick Percussion Group - Soli for soprano with percussion orchestra
Moistboyz - 5
Monuments Men - Original motion picture soundtrack
Ken Will Morton - Slow burn
Mud - Original motion picture soundtrack: Score by David Wingo
My Education - 5 popes
N
Namb - Namb
Nissy - Program the hissing thing
Noisy Noses - Noisy Noses
Brian Noyes - Journeys after...
O
Oak Street Blues - Calico
Old Cabin - Old Cabin
One Chance - Original motion picture soundtrack
Oooooo - Noooooo
Orchestra of Spheres - Vibration animal sex brain music
P
Charlie Parr - Hollandale
Troy Petty - Fairy tale pen
Aaron Poehler & Ryan Tullyt-Doyle - Dietrich
Q
R
Reacta - Refraction
James Tristan Redding - Walking into Brooklyn
Marty Regan - Scattering light, scattering flowers
Royal Oui - Royal Oui
S
Sarah - Featuring Bruce Barth
Scan Hopper - Mariana bridges
Scattered Bodies - Talking songs
David Serby and the Latest Scam - David Serby and the Latest Scamd
Sherlock - Original television soundtrack
Herb Silverstein - Monday morning: 10 original tunes
Sine Qua Non - Simple pleasures
Spell Kasters - Kastin' the spell
Spycker - Voted away
Richard Stoltzman - Resolve
Stray - Life in Japan 2013
Joe Sullivan - Whiskey jack waltz
Mason Summit - Absentee
T
That Awkward Moment - Original motion picture soundtrack
Beth Thornley - Septagon
Dinah Thorpe - Lullabies & walke up calls
Tippy - Getting Tippy
Alex Tjoland Band - Silent revelry
U
Ugly Quartet - Mars needs Maurice
Unrepeatable Quartet - Edmonton 2012
V
Vices - Vices
Vinny Vegas - The big white whale
W
Week of Wonders - Piggybacks b/w The end of the day
Stan Wells - High tide
Winter Pale - Red sun
Woodshedders - Wildfire
X
Y
Yippee - A, D, and U
Z
Frank Zappa - Everyone hates my wife now
