February 2016 Comics, Poetry, and Reviews by
aka 
Stream "Introspective Evolution"
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February 2016 Thought: UNPLUGGED.
Like most people, I usually find myself following along with the daily flow of news that spews forth from the internet, television, and social media. It becomes such a regular part of everyday life that I usually rarely even think about it because it seems so normal. One month ago I decided to pull the plug on it all. I've done this several times in the past but I had apparently forgotten how good it feels to not know what's going on in the world. Whether you realize it or not, you have a choice as to whether or not you follow the flow of useless information. What I have found...at least for myself...is that all of the information does me no good at all. In fact, the complete opposite is true. I'm not really doing anything about anything...so what good is it knowing all this stuff? For me, it just takes up space in my brain that could be used for other things. Hearing about all the retarded things going on and hearing how mean and hateful people are only brings me down and makes me feel anxious. If you're involved with things, I can see how it's important for you to keep up with stuff. So this thought is intended for those who aren't involved. If you're like me, you might very well find yourself much, much happier when you don't keep up with what's happening. So...what has served as a replacement since I unplugged myself? I've had the entire series of Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman playing almost non-stop while doing other things. It's one of the greatest television shows ever, there's really nothing else quite like it. I'm much happier following Mary's antics than the latest political maneuver, the latest hate crime, or the latest weirdo news item that suddenly has everyone's attention for about two or three seconds. Will I ever plug back in? Maybe...but maybe not. Considering how much better I feel when I don't keep up with the daily slop that's thrown into the hog trough...I may very well stay unplugged forever.
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Antlered Aunt Lord - Ostensibly Formerly Stunted (And On Fire) (CD, Happy Happy Birthday To Me, Pop)
There have always been and there will always be weird band names. This is
one of the more peculiar ones we've heard of late...Antlered Aunt Lord.
Hmmm...where on earth did they come up with that one...?? To quote
directly from one of the most well-written press releases we've ever received,
this band's music "...is everything today's music is not--melodic,
lyrically inventive, reticent, and moving." Antlered Aunt Lord
is the one man band created by Athens, Georgia's Jesse Stinnard.
Although this is his first official release, the songs were culled from
hundreds of recordings he had already made. The compositions on Ostensibly
Formerly Stunted (And On Fire) are intrinsically intelligent and creative
and, as hinted by the above quote, they have almost nothing in common with
modern day commercial pop/rock. We've always been a fan of one-man bands.
This is an exceedingly strong debut from a guy who's going to be turning
heads around the world in the very near future. Gotta include a couple more
lines from that killer press release: "Antlered Aunt Lord is an
elementary substance having particular luster, insoluble in water. Antlered
Aunt Lord is always with us until the day he comes back in all his glory."
Brilliant words, brilliant music. Highly recommended. Top pick.
Awful.
Awful, awful,
Awful.
Anton
Barbeau - Magic Act (CD, Mystery Lawn, Pop)
One of the main reasons we write about music is because it makes us aware
of artists we would otherwise probably never even hear. We dig just about
everything we receive from the fine folks at Proxy Media, but this time
they really hit the target. Anton Barbeau...is absolutely
great. The press release describes this cool fellow as an "international
indie hero," and our immediate reaction is that he truly is
just that. Barbeau's connections in the world are impressive and wildly
appropriate. But rather than drop names, we'd rather focus on this talented
fellow's music. Barbeau writes artsy underground pop with hints of psychedelia
and his lyrics are light years beyond what we normally hear. But what really
grabs us is this man's presence. Anton writes great songs, to be certain...but
it's his personality and spirit that seem to really separate him from the
rest. This music reminds us of so many other artists...but in the end Magic
Act is a purely original album. We can hear hints of many of our favorites
here including The Monkees, Herman's Hermits, The Young Fresh Fellows,
XTC, The Television Personalities...and that's just the beginning. Thirteen
wonderfully creative tracks here, and they're all completely groovy.
Highly recommended for fans of credible modern pop. Top pick.
The
Black Ships - Dead Empires (Independently
released CD, Pop/rock)
We've rarely heard bands surface from Saratoga Springs, New York. But if
the folks in The Black Ships are any indication of what's happening
there musically, underground music fans will soon be focusing their attention
on the city (apparently there's an up-and-coming music scene that is gaining
quite a bit of attention). Dead Empires is a puzzling and slightly
oblique underground pop/rock album. The songs combine the sound of goth
with the sound of shoegazer...creating a slightly peculiar moody ambience
that is surprisingly soothing and appealing. It's probably those groovy
vocals that are pulling the fans in. The band is comprised of John Gill,
Greg Tebbano, David Ochal, and Ben Patten. The sound of The Black
Ships has a good bit in common with underground British bands from the 1970s
and 1980s. Listening to this, we're reminded of several artists from the
past including (but not limited to) John Foxx-era Ultravox,
The Cure, Lush, and Joy Division. This self-released album
features eight well-crafted cuts including "Dead Empires," "Where
the Rain Falls," and "Sarin."
The
Blue Dolphins - Come On! (Independently
released CD, Pop)
The Blue Dolphins is the California-based duo of Victoria Scott
and Alfonso Rodenas. Scott and Rodenas met at a rock club on the
Sunset Strip in Los Angeles and soon afterward started making music together.
Come On! is a surprisingly accessible album with a great deal of
commercial appeal. Rather than taking the super artsy approach to making
music, Victoria and Alfonso have chosen the quick path to acceptance. Just
about every song on this album sounds like a hit and the overall sound is
very familiar and smooth. The vocals are outstanding and the arrangements
are meticulous and appropriate for each tune. In some ways, this album reminds
us of FM radio pop from the 1970s and 1980s because of its breezy sound
and feel. There's a lot to take in here...fourteen captivating tracks featuring
cool hummable vocals and great vibes. Our favorite cuts include "Come
On!", "Breaking for the Blue," "Shelter Me," and
"Free Fall From Bliss."
Callenberg - Lost in the Mail (CD, Bend,
Underground pop)
Another strangely satisfying collection of underground pop tunes from Sweden's
Anders Callenberg. We really liked this fellow's last album (The
Bailout Shop) that was released in 2015. Lost in the Mail is
cut from the same fabric but it's even more interesting and rewarding. Callenberg
has a sound that's difficult to compare to other musical artists. He presents
his songs simply and stays away from overproduction and too much multilayering.
The songs on Lost in the Mail are simple and direct, using only the
essential ingredients to get the point across. Anders cites influences like
Spacemen 3, Yo La Tengo, and Leonard Cohen. If you like any
of these, there's a very good chance you'll totally dig this guy's music.
Eleven smart tracks delivered with very restrained vocals that are a perfect
fit for each track. Our favorite cuts include "What If It Never Starts?",
"Me and My Wallet," "Bus 18," and "Strange Hotel."
Bill
Carter - Innocent Victims and Evil Companions
(CD, Forty Below,
Bluesy Americana pop)
Bill Carter is one of those guys you've most likely been exposed
to before, even though you may not know him by name. Based in Austin, Texas,
Carter has been playing music for three decades with his band The Blame.
But chances are you've probably heard other folks covering Carter's tunes.
Artists who have chosen to present their interpretations of Bill's songs
include Stevie Ray Vaughan, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Robert Palmer,
The Counting Crows, Storyville, Omar and The Howlers, The Brian Setzer Orchestra,
Ruth Brown, John Anderson, and Waylon Jennings (whew!).
Innocent Victims and Evil Companions is Carter's ninth full-length
release, and it includes some of the best of the best lending their support.
Players on this album include Charlie Sexton, Denny Freeman, David Holt,
Dony Wynn, Mike Thompson, Richard Bowden, the Tosca String Quartet,
and John Mills (yet another whew!). If you're wondering why
so many key artists have chosen to cover Carter's material and why he's
surrounded by so many talented musicians, all you need do is hear his music
and you'll know why. This album presents completely gripping bluesy Americana
pop/rock tracks that should appeal to just about anyone. Yup, the appeal
really is that far and wide. After hearing these fourteen tracks,
we can sure see why this man has the respect of so many. Housed in a cool
digipak sleeve, complete with lyric booklet. Totally groovy. Recommended.
Top pick.
Cathryn
Craig & Brian Willoughby - In America
(CD, Cabritunes, Pop)
Solid, captivating music from the duo of Cathryn Craig and Brian
Willoughby. We don't want to immediately begin with name dropping here
because, in all honesty, these two artists don't need it. In America
is a nice, smooth album chock full of resilient songs that will easily stand
the test of time because they have a nice familiar classic sound. In
America is so smooth and well-crafted that you may immediately be asking
yourself why you've never heard Cathryn Craig and Brian Willoughby
before. Well, in fact, you probably have (here's where the name dropping
begins). These two talented individuals have/had connections with a whole
string of amazingly talented bands and artists over the years including
(but not limited to) Chet Atkins, The Righteous Brothers, Strawbs, Mary
Hopkin, Roger Whittaker, Monty Python, and Nanci Griffith...and
that's just a partial list (yow!). We're mentioning these only because
we're hoping it might spike your interest in hearing this album...because
these folks make music that's right up there with these other artists in
terms of talent, style, and artistry. Most of the tracks are originals,
and they're amazingly resilient and focused. But Cathryn and Brian also
throw in a handful of well-chosen covers including a particularly effective
version of "Those Were The Days" (a song surely long overdue for
a comeback). Sixteen rewarding tracks here including "Curragh,"
"In America," "We're Walking Each Other Home," and "One
More Song."
Brian
Cullman - The Opposite of Time (CD,
Sunnyside Communications, Pop)
This is an interesting album. Even though it has a very familiar basic sound,
it's difficult coming up with obvious comparisons and possible influences.
What strikes us most about these songs is how warm and resonant they sound.
This is not generic technology driven pop, this is real music played
by people playing real instruments. Brian Cullman is an interesting
fellow with an interesting story. To read more about his life and career
visit his web site (link above) and read his biography. Cullman has made
a lot of intriguing contacts over the years. In the 1980s and 1990s he was
in the New York band OK Savant. He's also done a lot of writing and
has been published in Creem, Crawdaddy, Musician, Rolling Stone, The
Paris Review, Spin, and Details (gadzooks!). But music
has apparently been running through his veins all the time, so he eventually
turned his attention to recording as a solo artist. The Opposite of Time
is a very mature album full of smart songs with insightful lyrics. Brian's
got a really great voice. He never sounds like he's trying too hard, he
just lets the melodies and lyrics flow naturally. He's backed by some major
players here including Jimi Zhivago, Jenni Muldaur, Glenn Patscha, Didi
Gutman, Byron Isaacs, Leni Morrison, David Berger, Tony Leone, Aaron Johnston,
Rich Hinman, Jeff Hill, Mike Sandoval, Jake Jacobs, and Murray Weinstock.
There's no telling how much commercial success Cullman with have with this
album because it's probably a bit too intelligent for the average listener.
But the great news is that he's already achieved what matters most which
is...artistic success. Brian is one of those guys who will probably be appreciated
most by other musicians and songwriters. Killer tracks include "Times
Are Tight," "Spoiled Child Blues," "Memphis Madeline,"
and "Beneath the Coliseum." Highly recommended. Top pick.
The
Evening Shades - Alright (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Peppy smart intelligent modern guitar-driven pop. This is the debut full-length
release from The Evening Shades. What grabbed our attention most
about this album is how direct and focused the songs are. In a world where
everyone seems inclined to overproduce and overlayer, Alright stands
out because it has a nice simple sound that allows the listener to focus
on things that matter like songs and melodies. And considering how good
the songs and melodies are here, it's nice to be able to easily discern
what's going on. Shades songs have a nice tight vibe and they're a totally
upbeat experience. The rhythms are persistent and infectious. The guitars
are mainly rhythm instruments, played with force and conviction. And the
vocals are the icing on the cake. Refreshing effervescent tracks include
"Forgive Me," "Here and Now," "Second to None,"
and "Any Louder (Can We Make This)." Quite a debut. These guys
are doing everything right.
Ex
Norwegian - Pure Gold (Independently
released CD-R, Pop)
We should probably begin here by saying that this album features the 2012
line-up of Ex Norwegian which was/is Roger Houdaille (vocals,
guitar), Michelle Grand (vocals, percussion), Giuseppe Rodriguez
(vocals, bass), and Lucas Queiroz (vocals, guitar). And playing drums
on the album is guitarist Fernando Perdomo (who is also a solo artist).
Unlike previous releases Pure Gold is, for the most part, a cover
album featuring interpretations of songs recorded by The Shirts, Melanie,
String Driven Thing, Bay City Rollers and more. That said, this is a
different sort of cover album because the band opted to choose tunes
that aren't so well known. So instead of hearing tunes you've heard way
too many times, you hear versions of songs you've likely never heard before
at all...combined with some brand new Ex Norwegian songs that you've definitely
never heard before. We've been big fans of this band for years. We're pleased
to report that this is (not surprisingly) another direct hit. We love hearing
this line-up playing together again...everyone seems to naturally fall into
a groove together and the music is pure magic. We received a CD-R but, at
least for the time being, Pure Gold is being offered exclusively
as a download on Bandcamp...so click HERE
to get yours now. Another truly great album from a truly great band. Top
pick.
The Flash - Original Television Soundtrack: Season 1. Music by Blake Neely (Limited Edition
Double CD, La-La Land,
Soundtrack)
Super cool limited edition double album set featuring a ton of music from
Season One of the television show The Flash. If you're tired of not
getting the right bang for your bucks, in this case you'll get it. The two
discs in Original Television Soundtrack: Season 1 offer over 137
minutes' worth of music. That's a lot. And it ain't nothin' to sneeze
at, neither. These beautifully executed tracks by Blake Neely are
intricate, precise, and highly melodic. This guy is not only a composer
but also a conductor, arranger, orchestrater, pianist, and author. But our
guess is that Nelly's real passion lies in creating music, because there's
a great deal of passion and energy flowing through these tracks. Precisely
executed compositions include "Dr. Wells Has Secrets," "Called
Some Friends For Help," "A Girl Oliver Once Knew," and "Saving
Innocent People." If this one appeals to you, the best idea is to grab
this album fast. It's only being offered in a limited edition run by the
cool folks at La-La-Land. So once it's gone...it's gone.
Take this
Grain and
Cheese it.
Hallas
- Hallas (CD, The
Sign, Pop/rock)
Interesting blend of progressive rock, pop, and metal. This self-titled
album has a sound and style that seems to come from a different sort of
universe. These tracks combine sounds from 1980s pop with songs that remind
us in many ways of 1970s Black Sabbath. These five guys can really
play. No flash-in-the-plan technology here...these men are very focused
and tight. This is a very short album that is only about 24 minutes
long, but in that amount of time these fellows show they've got what it
takes to really make some waves. The band is comprised of Tommy Alexandersson
(vocals, bass guitar), Alexander Moraitis (guitars), Marcus Petersson
(guitars), Nicklas Malmqvist (synthesizers, organs), and Kasper
Eriksson (drums). This is probably the first time we've heard a Swedish
band playing this style of music (!). Four kickass cuts: "Autumn In
Space," "Insomnia," "Tale of a Tyrant," and "Hallas."
Hannibal
- Original Television Soundtrack: Music by Brian Reitzell,
Season 3, Volume 1 (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack), Original Television Soundtrack: Music by Brian Reitzell,
Season 3, Volume 2 (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack)
As any thoroughly devoted soundtrack fan knows, horror films and television
shows often produce some of the most interesting music. The music for Season
Three of the popular television show Hannibal was, once again, composed
by Brian Reitzell, who has impressed and amazed listeners and viewers
in the past with his strangely dark and atmospheric music. Plenty of weird
stuff here, to be certain. Some of these cuts are more like atmospheric
soundscapes than melodic compositions...and those are the ones that grab
us the most. Reitzell is one helluva creative guy whose music most
certainly puts just the right spin on this disturbing television show. Over
an hour's worth of music here...and it's all one dizzying bizarre experience.
If you a fan of the show you'll definitely be interested in these albums.
If not and you just dig totally trippy intense music...then you'll probably
want these even more. Turn these up really loud for that unusual
extra punch. Top pick.
JD
& the Straight Shot - Ballyhoo!
(Independently released CD, Americana/bluesy pop)
The Americana craze has quickly spread to the rest of the world. And the
folks in JD & the Straight Shot are reaping the rewards of overseas
audiences who are more than ready for a real dose of American roots
music. This band is comprised of Jim Dolan, Aidan Dolan, Erin Slaven,
Byron House, and Marc Copely...all of whom have killer connections
in the world of music. On this album, the band decided to record using acoustic
instruments. We never heard previous releases so we cannot compare and contrast
the previous sound to the present. Unlike some Americana artists whose music
seems more like calculated pop than true roots music, these folks have a
sound that is remarkably genuine. And talk about chops. These folks are
truly focused on what they're doing, and they seem to be totally in synch
with one another on different levels. Jim has a great voice that provides
the perfect focal point for these tracks. All of the songs are original
with one exception, the well-chosen cover of Spirit's "Nature's
Way"...a song with a message that certainly seems even more relevant
in 2016 than it did way back when it was originally written. Ballyhoo!
sports a nice organic sound and our guess is that these tunes will really
resonate with fans. Eleven classy cuts including "Empty," "Under
That Hood," "Hard To Find," and "I'll See You Again."
Jimkata - In Motion (Independently released CD, Electronic pop)
Bright and upbeat electronic pop with a great deal of commercial appeal.
This is the third full-length release from the guys in Jimkata (and
their sixth release overall). Possibly the best way of describing this is
to say these guys sound something like The Police, except with a
more updated electronic sound. The melodies and vocals are particularly
similar at times. The band is comprised of Evan Fridell, Aaron Gorsch,
and Packy Lunn. These three guys are focused and dedicated. They've
achieved quite a bit of success over the past few years and it's all due
to their own hard work--they've done it all on their own without the aid
or assistance of a record company. In Motion has a familiar listener-friendly
sound that will appeal to a wide range of music fans. Features nine well-crafted
tracks including "Wild Ride," Build Me Up," "Ride the
Wave," and "Synapses."
Kung Fu Panda 3 - Music From the Motion Picture: Music by Hans
Zimmer (CD, Sony
Classical, Soundtrack)
2016 seems to be starting off with a bang in the world of movies and film.
Whereas the end of 2015 saw a lot of releases that folks just weren't so
crazy about, now it seems like every other movie is getting unanimously
positive reviews. That's certainly true of Kung Fu Panda 3. All the
major reviewers are giving this one a thumbs up so here's yet another
one to add to your list of "must sees." The music for the movie
was composed by Hans Zimmer. This fellow sure has come a long way
since the days when he was in the band The Buggles (remember that
strangely addictive song "Video Killed The Radio Star"?).
These days he's about as far from being a novelty act as one can get. Zimmer
has worked his way into being one of the most in-demand composers for film
and television. But he's also much more than that...he's a performer/celebrity
himself...putting on live performances for his devoted followers all over
the globe. The music for this soundtrack might surprise many folks. Instead
of featuring zany, goofy kid-style music, it features wonderfully melodic
classically-influenced instrumentals that are exceedingly well-conceived
and produced. These tracks have a huge slick sound and they really pack
a major punch if you have a killer speaker system. Beautifully executed
cuts include "The Power of Chi," "How To Be A Panda,"
"Two Fathers," and "Try."
The Lemon Clocks - Time To Fly (CD, Jam,
Pop/rock)
We sure were pleased to receive this album. It was only a few months ago
(September 2015) that we reviewed the last album (Now Is The Time)
from The Lemon Clocks. It blew us away and we're pleased to report
that we have the exact same reaction to Time To Fly. This band is
the trio comprised of Stefan Johansson (vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards,
drums), Todd Borsch (vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards), and Jeremy
Morris (vocals, guitar, bass, keyboards, drums). So the question might
be...what do you get when you combine three multi-talented multi-instrumentalists?
And the answer, of course, would be...a band whose depth and creativity
seems to know no bounds. This group seems to borrow it's inspiration from
the psychedelic jangley 1960s when cool songs like Tommy James and the
Shondell's "Crimson and Clover" were hugely popular (we still
love that song no matter how many times we hear it). Time To Fly
is chock full of super hummable guitar pop tunes laced with all kinds of
trippy electronics and experimental guitar sounds. There's a lot to take
in here...fifteen songs that clock in at just over 70 minutes (!). The best
part is...they're all totally groovy and hypnotic. Another Top Pick
for The Lemon Clocks. Recommended.
Adam
Levy - Naubinway (CD, Think
Piece, Pop)
Artists have used music as therapy for years. Sometimes it really works:
John Lennon's Plastic Ono Band is a prime example. Adam
Levy has been the leader/songwriter in the band The Honeydogs
for two decades. In 2012 he was dealt a heavy blow when his son committed
suicide. The event must have been devastating. Eventually Levy used music
as a way of working through the emotional issues related to the death. But
instead of creating a depressing downer of an album, he instead opted to
record songs that reflected a sense of optimism and hope. And that's probably
what makes Naubinway such a different sort of album. Levy's songs
sound something like a cross between Elvis Costello and The Beatles,
without ever sounding too much like either. Whether you know the details
of what inspired the album or not, these songs are enjoyable and refreshing
on many different levels. Adam has a nice friendly spirit and it comes through
loud and clear on these tracks. Lots of folks are talking about this one,
and we can certainly see/hear why. Includes a nice thick lyric booklet that
you can actually read (!). Cool and intelligent cuts include "Take
It as It Comes," "When Your Well Runs Dry," "Marigold,"
and "Naubinway."
The
Miamis - We Deliver: The Lost Band of the
CBGB Era (1974-1979) (CD, Omnivore
Recordings, Pop/rock)
Our first reaction to this album can be summed up in a single word: Wow.
We're huge fans of the Omnivore label because whoever's selecting music
seems to have taste that is an almost exact mirror of our own. Up to this
point, we thought we had pretty much heard all of the important cool
underground New York-based bands from the 1970s, especially those connected
with clubs like CBGBs and Max's Kansas City. And that's probably because,
at the time, we were avid readers of magazines like Punk Magazine,
Trouser Press, and Rock Scene (all three did an excellent
job of exposing folks to some of the greatest music of the 1970s). Even
though less known nationally and worldwide than all the other bands, The
Miamis were apparently a top favorite among the coolest of the cool
New York bands at the time. But the reason most of us (including yours truly)
never heard the band is because they were never signed to a record label.
Thus, they were mainly a live band and only recorded a few tunes during
their time together. Other bands got signed and became famous, but unfortunately
the folks in The Miamis finally threw in the towel and went on with their
lives. The Miamis were formed by brothers James Wynbrandt and Thomas
Wynbrandt and also included Dale Powers, Tom Mandel, and Georgie
Day. Now, thanks to the fine folks at Omnivore, this band is no longer
just a distant memory among a select few. The bands fans and everyone else
can now hear what all the fuss was about thanks to the release of of the
appropriately-titled We Deliver: The Lost Band of the CBGB Era (1974-1979).
The album collects all of the band's studio and apartment recordings plus
nine well-chosen live recordings. We can sure hear what all the excitement
was about. These songs are infectious, and we can only imagine what it must've
been like seeing these folks playing in small clubs around New York. Captivating
songs include "We Deliver," "I Want A Girlfriend" (wow...),
"Let There Be Pain," "We Need A Bigger Navy," "Open
Up Your Heart," and "Wang It." This band should've been huge
but more importantly...they made a real and lasting impression on those
who were fortunate enough to hear and know them at the time. Recommended.
Top pick.
Old
Man Canyon - Delirium (CD, Random,
Dreamy progressive pop)
We hear lots of bands and artists from Canada. But this is the first time
we've heard a Canadian band that sounds like this. Old Man Canyon
is the band/project created by multi-instrumentalist Jett Pace, a
young fellow with a different perspective on the world of modern progressive
pop. Pace writes songs that incorporate elements from folk, pop, and progressive
rock. His songs have a strange restrospective sound without ever borrowing
too much from artists of the past. Using classic instruments combined with
vintage and modern electronics, this man manages to come up with a sound
that stands out from the pack. And his vocals are particularly appealing...subdued
yet effective...and never overdone. This intricately produced album features
ten tracks, each with its own sound and specific appeal. We can't get enough
of cool heady cuts like "Learn To Forget," "In My Head,"
"I Don't Wanna Go Out," and "Sugar City." Old Man Canyon
is bound to be an instant hit among hipsters all over the world. Recommended.
Top pick.
These ovens
Can only be used by
Bobby.
Bill
Pritchard - Mother Town Hall (CD, Tapete, Pop)
Before the release of his 2014 album A Trip to the Coast, it had
been about eight years since Bill Pritchard had released a new album.
That album was voted one of the Top 50 albums of 2014 by Rolling Stone
magazine. Luckily his fans won't have to wait another eight years, as Pritchard
decided to record this follow-up shortly afterwards. Mother Town Hall
is likely to be welcomed by the same open arms that received A Trip to
the Coast. More than any other artist, Bill's music reminds us in many
ways of Pearlfishers...mainly because of the overall uplifting pop
sound and pensive lyrics. If there's a single word we would use to describe
this album that word would be...sincere. This is a far cry from so
much of the calculated dribble that passes for pop music in 2016. Smooth,
thought-provoking tracks include "Saturn and Co.," "Vampire
From New York," "Lilly Anne" (our favorite), and "The
Lamplighter."
Chris
Robley - The Great Make Believer (CD,
Cutthroat Pop, Pop)
The fifth full-length release from Chris Robley. The Great Make
Believer is a smart and smooth collection of pensive modern pop sometimes
reminiscent of classic artists from the past like Harry Nilsson (the
vocals are particularly similar at times). The basic tracks for the album
were recorded at a beach house in Seaside, Oregon but the vocals were redone
later. Robley has apparently had some shakeups in his life of late and these
recordings provided a sort of therapy for him. Ten classic pop tunes here
and they all have intelligent winding melodies and way-above-average lyrics.
This is one of those albums that will undoubtedly hold up well over time.
Intriguing tracks include "Anonymous," "1973," "Mission
Bells," and "Stained Glass Windows."
The nature of
Buffers is triangular and
Fabricated.
Star
Wars: The Force Awakens - Original Motion
Picture Soundtrack: Music by John
Williams (CD, Disney,
Soundtrack)
The biggest blockbuster of 2015 must surely have been Star Wars: The
Force Awakens. Folks just couldn't get enough of the movie. Even diehard
fans from decades ago seemed to have their interest renewed. We've always
felt that the music for the Star Wars films was the most important
part of the puzzle. Sure, you've got stories, costumes, and special effects
galore...but the music has always seemed like the main element that drove
the films. Never could that be more true than with the latest movie. The
soundtrack for the film was, once again, created by superstar John Williams.
Interestingly, this is the first Star Wars score to be recorded in
the United States (previous soundtrack music was recorded at London's Abbey
Road with the London Symphony Orchestra). To tie this film in with
those from the past, Williams incorporates familiar themes to give a feeling
of continuity. Like the music on the album, the packaging here is outstanding.
Incredibly beautiful triple fold digipak sleeve complete with cool photo
booklet. A must for Star Wars fans and those who admire the genius
of John Williams.
Suits - Original Series Soundtrack: Music by Christopher
Tyng (CD, Lakeshore,
Soundtrack)
In case you hadn't already heard about it, Suits is a new television
show about...guys in suits. And it's getting rave reviews from most of the
big reviewers out there on the internet so you'll probably want to keep
your eyes open for this one. The music for the show was composed by Christopher
Tyng who you might think, based solely upon his name, would be an Asian
guy. But he's actually Welsh, and he's been extremely active in the world
of music for quite some time. Thus far in his career Tyng has composed music
for the television shows The OC, Futurama, Rescue Me, and Covert
Affairs, and that's just for starters. Christopher is a multi-instrumentalist,
songwriter, composer, and producer...and he's staying very, very
busy these days. This soundtrack features music that is a bit different
from what you normally hear. Instead of classically-influenced pieces, these
tracks have a more modern overall sound...probably to add the appropriate
timeframe element to the show. Some of these tracks have a somewhat poppy
sound...while others are wonderfully moody and provocative. Killer sound
quality on this one. Twenty-seven intuitively intriguing cuts.
Try
The Pie - Rest (CD, Happy
Happy Birthday To Me, Pop)
One of the things that we love most out there in the world of music are
those unique individuals who strip things down to their bare essentials...and
make it work. As such, it would be impossible for us to dislike
this album. Try The Pie is the curiously-titled band created by San
Jose, California's Bean Tupou. Rest is an album presented
so simply that most folks probably won't understand or get it. And that's
kinda sad because...once again it makes it painfully apparent how mindlessly
folks are led by technology and choreography. Tupou was previously in the
bands Sourpatch and Crabapple and was also one of the folks
behind the Think and Die Thinking Collective. If you love the sound
of music that's recorded at home and sounds like it was recorded
at home...there's a good chance you'll love this music. This one's been
released on vinyl with a lovely sleeve and comes with a download card, courtesy
of the fine folks at Happy Happy Birthday To Me. Top pick. Love this one.
Ellen
Wade - Then & Now (Independently
released CD, Pop)
Ellen Wade is a uniquely talented Scottish folk singer/songwriter
who obviously loves music and loves making music. Ms. Wade is probably
best known as the lady chosen to replace Judith Durham in The
Seekers at one point in time when the vocalist became ill. But that's
just a tiny part of the story. To read more about Ellen's life, visit her
web page (link above). It contains a wealth of interesting writing where
she shares her life and experiences with the world. Then & Now
is a nice smooth listening experience with the central focus being the vocals.
Ellen's voice could probably best be compared to Joan Baez because
her tonal qualities and phrasing are particularly similar. Playing with
Wade on this album are John Sweet on acoustic guitar, Ed Newitt
on violin, and Phillip Goss on keyboards, bass, and drums. Thirteen
pensive well-executed tracks here including "She Moved Through the
Fair," "How Cold The Wind," All I Ever Wanted," and
"Wait For Me." Hard to believe Ms. Wade is 71 years old (!)...but
she is. You'd never guess it from hearing this album.
Henry
Wagons - After What I Did Last Night...
(CD, Metropolitan Groove Merchants, Pop/country)
This is an album that isn't easily absorbed and summed up after a single
spin. At first we thought we had an idea of where to place Henry Wagons
in this great big ol' world. But after a couple of spins we found ourselves
questioning our initial reaction. And at least on one occasion had to look
and make sure we had the right disc in the player because the music wasn't
sounding like we first thought. Mr. Wagons is a peculiar character. His
music sits somewhere in that peculiar area where pop meets rock meets Americana
meets country. His lyrics are what will probably first cause a reaction
from listeners. Henry has a sense of humor to be certain. But his humor
isn't simple and goofy, he writes songs that are solid and precise. But
they just happen to have elements of humor thrown in. And man oh
man what a voice. This man has a deep baritone that is instantly
recognizable. In some ways, After What I Did Last Night... sounds
like Leonard Cohen but with a twang. But the press release probably
hit the target best when it described the music as "country noir."
Twelve smart gripping tracks including "Cold Burger, Cold Fries,"
"King Hit," "Only Child," and "Melbourne."
Doug
Wahlberg Band - Flying Under the Radar
(Independently released CD, Pop/rock)
Doug Wahlberg is one of those guys out there who could easily be
a superstar if the cards happened to fall in place a certain way. He and
his band have connections with all kinds of major artists and yet...at least
at this point in time Wahlberg remains somewhat of a cult figure. But it's
not because his music doesn't have commercial appeal, because Flying
Under the Radar makes it perfectly clear that Doug and his associates
are making music that is exceedingly accessible. In addition to Wahlberg
(lead vocals, guitar), the band is comprised of Rich Genovese on
drums, George Miller on bass guitar, and Jeff Claypool on
keyboards, guitar, and vocals. This album would already be an impressive
spin, but it's even more so when you consider the fact that this is the
band's debut. Many bands spend years trying to come up with something
that sounds this good, and for these guys it's a starting point (!). Eight
cool rockers here including "Love When It Rains," "Broken,"
and "Torture." Good solid stuff.
Wheel
In The Sky - Heading For the Night (CD,
The Sign, Pop/rock)
Loud, gripping, exciting rock played with balls and passion. After hearing
this album we pulled up the band's video for the tune "Jezebel"...and
we were immediately impressed. Music has gotten so tame in 2016.
The guys in Wheel In The Sky have a great big loud aggressive sound
that just might be what the doctor ordered to correct the sad lame state
of modern music. The band's music is gripping and exciting. This album starts
off softly but then quickly transforms into a mighty roar as the band slams
out the extreme rocker "Death To All." Recorded and mixed by Olle
Bilius and mastered by Niels Nielsen, Heading For the Night
has a big thick sound without ever sounding too slick or overproduced. Wheel
In The Sky is one of the best hard rock bands currently on the horizon.
These eight tracks will probably get a reaction from even the most jaded
listeners. Our favorite cuts include "Death To All," "Jezebel,"
"Rainbow of Evil," and "God On High. Recommended. Top pick.
This area is
Infested by
Worms.
Z
For Zachariah - Original Motion Picture
Soundtrack: Music by Heather
Mcintosh (CD, Varese
Sarabande, Soundtrack)
Z For Zachariah is a disaster movie in which most of civilization
is entirely wiped out with the exception of three individuals who, unfortunately,
find themselves involved in a love triangle. The film was directed by Craig
Zobel and stars Chiwetel Ejiofor, Chris Pine, and Margot Robbie.
What immediately caught our attention about this soundtrack album was the
fact that the music was composed by a woman. Although we're not exactly
sure why, music for film and television is created almost entirely by men.
While we've reviewed hundreds of soundtracks over the past few years, we
can only recall one previous instance where the music was composed by a
lady. Even more interesting this time is who this young lady is.
Heather Mcintosh was the cellist for the Elephant 6 Collective.
She has also played with the bands Of Montreal, The Olivia Tremor Control,
Gerbils, Elf Power, Apples In Stereo, Great Lakes, The Ladybug Transistor,
and more (yow!). She recently left Athens, Georgia and now lives
in Los Angeles, California. Ms. Mcintosh is obviously an artist who knows
how to make the right connections with the right people. This beautifully
executed soundtrack album ought to set the stage for a long and rewarding
career making music for film and television.Twenty-six beautiful tracks
that rival some of the best soundtrack music we've heard... Amazing stuff.
A
Additional Items Composed - Reversal of radishes
Additional Items Reversed - Back to the additional items
Adele - My frisky rat puppy done ate my head off
Alice Copper - Lob it to Seth
Shirlette Ammons - Language barrier
Antlers for Booboo - Oh no not that tired old runt again
Apples Got Smushy - Train smush
B
Bad Bump - Banana tread
Badfigure - Crooked down
Bambi Dambi - Lambi
Ballerina Pumps - Blackass
Barge - Limpy
Beadulls - Desmocker
Black Tabitha - Pastor of senility
Butler Pudding - Lippity gris gris
C
Car Mump - Dazed and refused
Cat Grave - Mickey's laboratory
Cesula - Maid in martians
Chump - Malaria
Come To Lulu's Nurse - Romp and the bumpy tum tum
D
Dae Dae - Mae Mae
Daisy Days - Freezing
Dirty Pennies - Flocks and pimps
Doves That Die Today - Lassie
Ducks for Ducks - Nine hundred ponies
E
Eat The Bounty Feathers - Naptime
Elephant Muff - Beneath the blurry knob
Elves and Bumpy Thumpers - Original motion picture soundtrack
Empty - Flow
F
Far Out Far In - Farin
Five Times Fifty-Five - Live
Four Times Four Is Four - Five times
Funky Laminate - Parking
Fur For Francis - Pouches
G
Gas Pumps - Last primper
Gauge Rage - Now cow
Germany's Burp - Lamp drill
Get Your Begging Done - Tower bitch
H
Hell for Humans - Happiness is a dumb puppy
Help the Hopeless - Bloody hearts get you nowhere
I
Ian - Jackknife
Inky Doll - Dampness and dryness
It Stays Warm - Square butter
J
Jerry's Crud - Narry a buster
Jersey is Swervy - Translustre
Jethro Toil - Sick as a tick
Jones Is A Donkey - Drammamine
K
Kandy and the Ks - Lassie's drool
Krazy Cow - Lots of tips
Krunchy Krunch - Captain's caps and tons
L
Lamb Peppers - Smuppy
Laxative Preamble - Naps and snappers
Lisa Said - First time, long time
M
Manners and Nanners - Tablets for pokey
Maze Lops - Trazzler
Millie's Pork Bucket - Boxes won't go away
Moo Moo the Bow Wow - Trouser's ain't fresh no more
Murphy and Nop - Dammy and slop
N
Ned and the Headrumpers - Trowels
No More Blouses - Farmy
Now Cows - Blouses and thermometers
Numb's Fumbler - Town and mouth
O
Oh No That Old Shithead Is Here Again - Rotten old schmucks with no manners
Oooh - Uuuuuh
Opposite of Opposite - Lopposite
Orange Floyd - Sharp glide of the goon
Osmosis - USB #7
Other Muzzles - Howdy Pops
Oz and the Schnoz - Pow wows and monkeys
P
Pants and Pantless - Rainy press
Part Blub - Fran is ugly
The Puddles - Nappy load
Puny - Runny infection
Q
Query - Stop the questions
Quest for Dope - Smoking snuff
Quicker Than Daffy - Cords that don't work
R
Debbie Rafter - Lemme after
Reel to Raoul - Mouthpiece
Reform Club - Never yesterday
Rely On Relish - Candy dash
Mick Rhodes & The Hard Eight - Paradise city
Rolling Bones - Get your mama's kraut
S
Larry Samual - Barney doesn't have hugs for me
Smuppy - The tatters that ground pepper
Sparse - Kim's Ono spy mouse
Sultans of Swing - Subcontinental drift
Swap and Change - Loudness weird
T
Talking Sheds - Lambs forking up tonsils
Tea For Lunch - Massachusetts isn't a country
Teepee Tupperware - Laura's butter pan
Trust Idiots - Laugh when it's all over
U
Umbrella Vision - Church of tassle
Uncle Duck - Mushed
Uncle Pregnant - Does and rodents
V
Various Artists - A collection of dull dribble that no one will ever hear
W
Wally Is Near - Stamp that thing goodbye
Well I Guess This Is Just Another One - Lumps
Whether Or Not - Lousy weather
X
X-ray Pecs - Lookie away
Xzistance - Lift down
Y
Yell All The Time For Whatever You Pay For It - Taxi service
Yellow Floyd - Park wide until noon
Yes We Will Be Bananas - Trap doors
Z
Zappa and the Zappettes - Trown
Frank Zappa - How flowers got in the potty train
