babysue: LMNOP Reviews - December 2000

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December 2000 Reviews by the Big Ol' Doodoo Bastard Named

RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY

Lisa Angelle - Lisa Angelle (CD, Dreamworks, Country/pop)
Our first reaction to the CD cover art and publicity photo here was..."oooooooooooooh...this is gonna be a piece of CRAP." But you know what? Although it hurts us mighty mucho to say it...we were WRONG (!!???!!). Lisa Angelle is quite the talented young female vocalist. And she just happens to be strikingly beautiful. Our first reaction to this package made us realize that we are generally EXTREMELY prejudiced against "super handsome" or "super beautiful" artists. But then, we have good reason to be. Usually when anyone hits the scene who looks really good...their music really SUCKS LIKE A RETARD'S BARNHOLE. But as you may already know, there are always exceptions to rules...even the dumbest of rules such as our own. But back to basics... Man, does this lady have a GREAT voice. Her vocals are reminiscent of some of the truly great female vocalists. And she surrounds herself with some super slick players. Produced by Andrew Gold, this disc not only sounds really classy...but the production fits the music to a T. We would expect that this lady's name and face will be appearing all over the place very soon. Great stuff, and it just goes to prove that commercial music doesn't HAVE to be shitty... (Rating: 4+)

The Bellrays - Grand Fury (CD, Upper Cut, Rock/punk/blues)
This California-based band's name has been popping up in LOTS of places lately...so our curiosity was naturally aroused...and we were most eager to hear the music of The Bellrays. We are as glad as Glad Wrap to report that the band lives up to the hype surrounding them. What is most exciting about The Bellrays is that the band is mixing blues, hard rock, and punk in a very convincing and gripping manner. The first comparison that springs to mind here is obviously Janis Joplin...mainly due to the similarity of foxy vixen Lisa Kekaula's vocal style. The lady screams, yells, and just sings herself into an adrenaline FRENZY...while the band pumps away in their very best buzzsaw fashion. Guitarist Tony Fate has a great knack for turning tunes. The songs are...for the most part...short, loud, and to the point. Interestingly...although the music brings to mind bands from the 1960s and 1970s...The Bellrays actually sound extremely current and vital. This is one of the most pure rock and roll bands we have heard in quite some time. And although we're crazy about the music...we'd bet that this is only the beginning for these folks. Expect the next 2 or 3 releases from this band to blow everyone completely off the planet. Honest--they're that good. This, the group's second release, has us primed and ready to pump until our noses bleed... (Rating: 4+)

The Bevis Frond - Valedictory Songs (CD, Rubric, Rock/pop)
Nice melodic mid-tempo rock/pop, nicely produced and full of hummable vibrant melodies. The Bevis Frond is a British band headed by Nick Salamon, who runs Woronzow Records. Rubric licensed this recording from Woronzow, and for good reason. Although we are puzzled by the band name (duhhhhhhh...?), the music is easily digestible pop music with exceptional vocals and simple arrangements. The tunes tread on the fine line between the sound of commercial radio and the sound of the underground. We hear traces of Badfinger and Big Star in the these tunes...and it is interesting that these two bands in particular popped into our minds first, as The Bevis Frond is actually a nice blend of sounds from both British and American rock from the seventies to the present. What really pushes these songs over the edge for us are those INCREDIBLY TASTY guitar licks that pop up from time to time. Whereas most bands overuse lead guitars to the point of being obnoxious, these fellows wait until just the right moment and then throw out a really mesmerizing lead at the listener. Seventeen tunes is a lot...but when they're this good, they go by like lightning. Our faves are "Godsent," "High On A Downer," "The Speed of Light," and "Confession." Heartfelt and genuine, this band's music will certainly stand the test of time... (Rating: 5)

Big Daddy - The Best of Big Daddy (CD, Oglio/Rhino, Retro pop/rock)
We unfortunately missed this band during their career...but we bet that most other folks in the U.S. had the same misfortune. Now lissen up here ya'll...us dumbass folks in babysue camp just ain't too keen on bands what do them cover tunes. But y'know...thars ALWAYS exceptions. And Big Daddy is certainly a MAJOR exception. Like Weird Al Yankovic, the band does covers of modern pop tunes...but unlike Weird Al, these folks' interpretations are (for the most part) serious takes...done in the very best style of the 1950s. Several of the tunes on this "best of" compilation are BETTER than the originals ("Dancing In The Dark," "Super Freak," "Every Breath You Take" are all much, MUCH more listenable!). What actually makes this band stand out are the incredible vocals. These guys sound as good or better than the crooners of the fifties. "Little Red Corvette," the one track recorded live, gives a good indication of what this band must've been like live. You'll have to hear this one to believe it (reminds us of early Martin Mull). A simultanous riot as well as a great listen, this CD will hopefully open up the public's ears to this virtually unknown band... (Rating: 4+)

Don Campau - Play Dice With Me: A Random Collection of the Best of Don Campau (CD, Lonely Whistle Music, Pop/rock)
Although babysue policy prevents us from reviewing materials by our friends and longtime acquaintances, we certainly want to make you aware of the fact that legendary California home taper/radio DJ Don Campau has now officially entered the world of CD-Rs (!). After years upon years of releasing TONS of independently recorded and produced cassettes, Mr. Campau has now joined the bandwagon of cassette artists from the 20th century stepping up to the technology of the 21st century. This particular "best of" disc contains 18 tracks. Our bet is that there will be LOTS more CD-Rs on the way from this obsessive and unrelenting underground artist. E-mail Don at campaudj@jps.net or write him at Lonely Whistle Music, P.O. Box 9162, Santa Rosa, CA 95405. (Not Rated)

Dino DiMuro - Train Going Nowhere (A Rock Album) (CD, Lonely Whistle Music/DiMurotapes, Pop/rock)
It's mighty interesting seeing all of the original underground cassette artists from the twentieth century entering the world of digital music as the milly-nilly-yum comes to a close. Dino DiMuro has been around for years...but had virtually disappeared from the scene...until now. Mr. DiMuro is back with a brand new eleven track CD-R. We'd like to review this disc...but our current policy prevents us from reviewing material by friends and acquaintances. So...it would be best for you yourself, dear reader, to get hold of this disc and draw your own conclusions. We can tell you that the disc is being released by the infamous Don Campau on his Lonely Whistle Music label (see above). That should tell you SOMETHING... You can e-mail Mr. DiMuro regarding his new album at recordings@aol.com. (Not Rated)

Casper Fandango and His Tiny Sick Tears - How's Your Hand? (CD, Lookit Meee, Pop)
We previously reviewed How's Your Hand? when it was only available as an independent cassette. While we don't normally review albums twice, we are compelled to let you know that this superb underground cassette has now been reissued on CD. We dug these tunes before...but we're diggin' them even more now that we can hear them in all of their digital clarity. Bandleader Jason Nesmith has made the intelligent move to Athens, Georgia (wisely leaving the always disappointing and shitty city of Atlanta). We're betting that the change in geographic location will see this talented fellow finally receive the recognition he deserves. Take note indie labels...this one's ripe for picking. For more information see the Casper Fandango web site. (Previously rating of "5" still stands...)

Ramblin' Jack Elliot - Best of the Vanguard Years (CD, Vanguard, Folk)
Although we've certainly heard the name before...would you believe that until now we weren't familiar with the music of the legendary Ramblin' Jack Elliot? Call us ignorant...because we actually are ignorant in many ways...and we don't mind admitting it. Besides...ignorance can be a great thing...particularly when it means that we can hear a release like this and feel the same sort of enjoyment that folks probably gleaned from it when they heard it for the first time many, many years ago. Prior to this disc being released, Elliot's daughter directed a film about her father titled The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack (which we have yet to see). Best of the Vanguard Years showcases very early recordings...plus no less than 13 (!!!) previously unreleased studio recordings (making this disc a MUST for die hard fans). Mr. Elliot was a great artist who paved the way for many modern folkies. His simple and direct style are probably what drew people to his music initially. Now...many decades later...his sincerity and good nature still come shining through... (Rating: 5)

Gleam Engine - Gleam Engine (Independently released CD, Dance/pop)
Although current babysue policy prevents us from reviewing this release (we cannot review materials submitted by friends and acquaintances), we SHO' AS HELL wanna make you aware of Gleam Engine...which just happens to be the duo of Robert Coddington and Jodi Lee Smith who live and record in Chicago. So...why not visit their web site...and then form your OWN opinions...instead of reading our worthless words of questionable wisdom? Eh? Eh? Ehhhhhhhh...? http://www.gleamengine.com. (Not Rated)

Glowfriends - So Glad To Be Here (CD, Jam, Pop)
The debut CD by Glowfriends is impressive indeed. The band is the duo of April Morris and Mark Morris who live in Portage, Michigan. What initially caught our attention about this CD was the lyrics. The band has a very natural way with words, expressing their feelings and emotions in a completely genuine and sincere fashion. But the songs themselves are also amazingly strong...especially when you consider the fact that this is the band's first disc. The duo's dad (and noted underground pop sensation and label manager) Jeremy Morris even plays on four of the cuts. Listening to this music, it is clear that the folks involved had a great time recording these tunes. Our own particular favorites are "Lydia," "Out To The Moon," and "I Should've Known." Beautiful melodies contained within combine genuine spirit with natural skill. Neat stuff... (Rating: 4)

Godhead (Missed the concert but still had a very interesting evening sort of thing, November 7, 2000)
Hmmmm....what an odd evening this turned out to be. We were on the guest list to see Godhead open up for Marilyn Manson, but because the venue listed the bands in the wrong order...we missed the entire concert (please forgive us Rhonda). Not that being at the venue at the right time would have mattered...as security was so tight that even if we had been there when Godhead played we wouldn't have been able to get inside the club anyway. But alas...when we were picking up our free tickets, we ran into a friend of Godhead who happened to strike up a conversation with us. This nice fellow then proceeded to take us to the back of the club and introduce us to the band. So...while we can't review the show...we can at least report that the members of the band were very polite young gentlemen. Sure, they looked like rock and roll freaks from beyond the galaxy...but they had good manners, and were genuine and friendly. While chatting with the band and some of their "hangers on," some folks from Pollstar (the only folks we ran into who were not friendly) happened upon the group and began taking photographs. Instantly everyone nearby lit up and wanted to be in the pictures with the band. We naturally headed in the opposite direction...and you know, we couldn't help but wonder...why would anyone WANT their picture in Pollstar anyway? For the life of us, we cannot understand what motivates people to want to have their names and faces plastered all over magazines and web sites. But hey...each to his or her own, we always say (well...we may say it, but we really don't mean it). But to continue...after hanging out with the "cool people" behind the club, we then decided to go ahead inside and see good ol' Marilyn Manson's BIG show...but ONLY UNDER THE CONDITION that we not be "frisked" like everyone else who had walked in. As you might guess, we were able to walk right past the "friskers" who had made such a diligent effort check everyone. Funny how security folks at these big arenas seem to never even notice us. (At the last sold out Manson show, we walked right past a line of several hundred people as well as the ticket takers...and no one even bothered to ask for our tickets!) Finally landing a spot at the very top of the theater where we had to stand on a seat to get a glimpse of the infamous one, after a couple of tunes a lady who looked like a satantic cult member tapped us on the shoulder and informed us that we were standing in her seat. We apologized and stepped down (expecting her to slap us or be shitty), but then the young lady invited us to stand up on her seat with her. And do you know what? As it turned out, she was actually a completely sweet and sincere lady from Birmingham who had a great sense of humor and was completely unpretentious and real. We danced with her in her chair, watched three songs, and then decided it was time to go. So...in closing...while we were disappointed that we missed Godhead's show, we were pleased to run into so many kind and polite folks...and this was particularly surprising, since you would think everyone at a show like this would have been rude and hateful. Godhead are the first band signed to Marilyn Manson's new Posthuman record label, and they have a full-length CD coming out shortly. We don't have a web site yet for the band or the new label, but apprently Priority Records is associated with this upcoming venture...so here is their web site: http://www.priorityrecords.com. [Review written by LMNOP.] (Not Rated Because We Missed It, Goddamn It)
But wait...another individual who actually SAW the show was kind enough to send in this review...
Godhead - (Live performance, November 7, 2000)
What if we threw a show and nobody could get in? This is what befell Baltimore/DC's goth/techno/industrial ensemble Godhead as they opened for The Union Underground and Marilyn Manson. Not only was the entrance line delayed by amazingly draconian body-search measures, but all the local adverts implied that the billwould be Union Underground first, then Godhead, then Marilyn. Talk about some disappointed fans! Godhead has built a sizeable local following, thanks to five or six shows in Atlanta within the space of two years, ranging from the tiny (513 Club) to the mid-sized (opening for Christian Death and the Genitorturers) to pretty damn big (Dragon*Con three years in a row, opening for the Misfits and GWAR). They've made a lot of friends here, and I overheard over a dozen people in line and later inside the Tabernacle complaining that they'd missed part or all of Godhead's set. For those "in the know" who managed to get inside during their show, Godhead performed a...let's call it a damn good set for an appreciative crowd, especially for those on the floor--SOME of their fans had clearly gotten in. I'm a fan and friend of the band since early 1999, and I've seen them about eight times now and while this was a reallly good show, it wasn't the best I've seen from them. There were some sound problems, especially with Mike Miller's mike, and as low man on the setlist totem pole, the first opening band seldom gets a decent soundcheck or set-length. A 32-minute set each night--not one second more or less--just isn't long enough, although by keeping things tight they were still able to crank out eight songs. They played mostly brand-new cuts from their forthcoming album (Two Thousand Years of Human Error) along with two reworked tracks from their well-regarded small-label cd Power Tool Stigmata. Godhead has a way of skillfully mixing crunchy guitar-driven wails with softer, goth-flavored interludes--always fun for startling newbie listeners! About half the new stuff was unfamiliar to me, but it sounded good AND varied--the new CD will be well-worth the wait. The reworked songs were "Penetrate" (complete with frontman Jason Miller's striking performance-art bit with the gas-mask) and their legendary cover of "Eleanor Rigby." Both sounded fine, although I don't care for the new British-style vocals on "Eleanor." Been there, done that. But, that's probably just me.... [Review by Paul W. Cashman.] (Call it a 4+, and a 5+ for effort.)

Godsmack - Awake (CD, Republic, Hard rock)
Music seems to cross over boundaries more and more as time goes by. Ultra-popular rockers Godsmack play an interesting style of music that combines elements of rock, hard rock, death metal, buzzsaw rock, and arena rock...and they do it GOOD. Yup, these guys have their groveling hordes of fans calmy nestled in the seat of their pants... Lead vocalist Sully is probably what most folks are after, if for no other reason that he has a killer voice and a really weird tattoo around his navel that makes it look like The Black Hole. But back to the music at hand...this is very hard rock music that verges on metal, but the vocals are discipherable enough that the music comes off as basically very hard rock. Lots of real kickers here like "Sick of Life" and "Bad Magick" will make lots of folks in high school very, VERY happy indeed... (Rating: 4-)

Godteeth - Toothing Tendencies From Heaven or Henry (CD, Skippydoo, Smock rock)
Godteeth seem to be following on the heels of Godhead and Godsmack. The band's image is a merging of the two and even their songs sound somewhat similar. Actually...according to our sources...Godteeth are actually lifting material from the other two bands' CDs and then overprocessing it to the point where most folks can no longer recognize it. At least that seems to be the case for all but the last track, "How God Heats His Noodles." This track is actually somewhat poignant and genuine, as all the band members lay in Big Mammy's lap and sway to and fro with the milky way of a teeter totter. Apparently the band apes Marilyn Manson by dressing like devil-worshipping transvestites. Now isn't THAT original...? (Rating: 1)

Godvunky - Some Sticky Jesus Doodoo Done Got Caught In Usses Skinny Apron Thing (CD, Carleo, Peeper rock)
Jesus Christ...how many bands can there BE with the word "God" in the title? Here comes yet another one...Godvunky. Boy are they BAD. Retarded five-year-old Christians ride around in plastic autocars, occasionally yelling obsceneties at a cheap microphone. This...is MUSIC? Whether or not it is music is not the issue. The issue is whether or not it is good. This is not good. This is bad. And what in the HELL is the title of the CD supposed to mean anyway? We hate it when people confuse us because it makes us frightened and sad. What a sorry excuse these kids are. Their parents should have aborted them before they slipped out of their loose-fitting stinkholes. (Rating: 1)

Godyardtrimmings - Some Things You Just Has To Trim Up Sometime (CD, Peenie Pal, Peeper rock)
Ever feel like slam dancing while you're taking care of your duties around the yard? Apparently Toledo's Godyardtrimmings like to do yard work the hard way. Every single minute they get something out of it they start going again. Around and around and around...just like it's 1953 all over again! But from the sounds of Some Things You Just Has To Trim Up Sometime, it's a safe bet that you won't be pushing the throttle too hard to the left for very long. Mrs. Posie will have her snout puffed up your rear end before it's over, and then you won't know what it was all about anyway. There's a line that describes something somewhere... "Never check your trousers until you done drunk your punch." Hey, we already KNEW that! This isn't that great, but it isn't that great either. For weed whackers and slight practitioners only. (Rating: 2)

Godzhairybackside - Very, Very Close To God (CD, Rayner Steek, Zipper rock)
Oh...how DIRTY and NASTY can a band be! These horrible Satanic cult worshippers seem to think it's funny making light of the hairy backside of our LORD and CREATOR. Is nothing SACRED? Apparently not, as should already be obvious by everything else that is visible in the sorry light of day. Strike a match...wait...and then begin to get sick, because that is exactly what you are going to get. You can watch that meat patch on your forehead draw up and melt away as you pack your favorite sacks to go hunting for a big piece of pork. When you find the marker, you will begin to understand the music of Godzhairybackside. The music is plain out crazy. Just crazy and weird and all that stuff. Ain't it weird how everything just keeps getting crazier and crazier? Must be all them goddamn weird people out there making everything get so goddamn strange and unusual. Well hell, at least we'ze glad we ain't the crazy ones...at least not right here tonight. We hate this one just for the hell of it. You can hate it too, won't you? Hate is healthy, yes indeed. (Rating: 1)

Cisco Houston - Best of the Vanguard Years (CD, Vanguard, Folk)
It's a safe bet that any release in the Best of the Vanguard Years series is gonna be a knockout...and that most surely is the case with this great overview of the music of Cisco Houston. Houston was pals with Woody Guthrie, and there are definite similarites to be found in his music. Not only does this disc contain a variety of tracks from Houston's two Vanguard albums, but it also contains five previously unreleased tracks. There are some absolutely awesome songs here. "Colorado Trail" is remarkably simple, sincere, and fluid. "Nine Hundred Miles" showcases what a great voice this man had. "So Long It's Been Good" is a smart lyrical experience. Because there are 24 tracks here, we don't have the time to describe 'em all...but you can take our word for it that this fellow was a true original. And it's nice that Vanguard is now making his music available to a whole new audience. Houston died in 1961. We'd bet that he would have been mighty proud to see this professionally prepared package. Very nice stuff that gives a great deal of insight into the origins of the American folk movement... (Rating: 5)

Idaho (Live Performance, November 16, 2000)
Walking into a club to hear California moody rockers Idaho, any individual would expect the club to be sold out. But then, this is the real world...and in the real world, things are never as they should be. This performance was awe inspiring, breathtaking, and unforgettable...despite the fact that there was a VERY lame turnout for the show. But then...any credible, inventive, and exceptional band should always expect as such in Atlanta, Georgia...because the only bands who really have any support here are the really CRAPPY ones. But back to Idaho... Jeff Martin and pals have been recording and playing music under this moniker for years and years now...only to be rewarded by the occasional glowing review or the improbable small group of fans who are wild over the music. While watching this show we tried to figure out...why could this be? It certainly couldn't be the music...because the songs are far, FAR beyond what one normally hears from your generic band in 2000. Fortunately, the answer was obvious. Idaho music requires that the listener actually pay CLOSE ATTENTION. This is something which most people are, unfortunately, incapable of. You see, dear reader, the average "alternative music fan" would rather be bouncing around the room in an inebriated state of confusion or slam dancing while watching some morons with too many piercings scream about how to change the world. We were very pleased to see original band member John Barry supporting on electric guitar...throwing some absolutely dazzling lines at the audience. The current Idaho rhythm section was right on key, never missing a beat. Band leader Jeff Martin has definitely become this decade's most unlikely guitar hero. Whereas your average guitarist plays way too fast and way too loud....Mr. Martin's strengths are in his extremely subtle approach. He swaps between several four string guitars...and plays chords and sounds that most of us have probably never heard before. While our earlier comparisons to Dinosaur Jr and Neil Young still apply, we finally landed upon an even better comparison. Idaho is like a very sleepy and even dreamier Duretti Column (another incredibly underappreciated band in the bigger scheme of things). Mr. Martin's songs are so thoughtful and poignant that most folks simply seem to miss the point. Who out there is in search of beautiful melodies and heartfelt lyrics? Fortunately...we at babysue very much ARE. The only flaw...and we mean the ONLY flaw...in this show were the long pauses between songs. What would push an Idaho show up to a "6+" would be if the band can work out this one minor flaw. Having the songs and samples flow evenly one into the other would make an Idaho show PERFECT. It's always interesting how virtually ALL of the big record companies completely fail to recognize some of the most mind-blowing talent out there. That is most certainly the case here, as we find this band to be one of the most mesmerizing and unique acts around... Don't miss out on Idaho...just because most everyone ELSE is... http://www.idahomusic.com. (Rating: 5+)

Elton John - One Night Only: The Greatest Hits (CD, Universal, Pop)
Sad, sad. So very sad and pathetic. Whereas Elton John was once a sexy and talented little British fellow knocking out killer tunes with regularity...he is now an ugly nothing...seemingly hellbent on staying in the public eye...even if he has absolutely nothing left to offer. What Elton lost over the years was never his hair...it was his talent. Hair can be replaced...but talent cannot. It's obvious from the song selection at this live concert in Madison Square Garden that the fans only wanted to hear the songs the "man" (we use the term very loosely here) wrote before he turned sour. But even with all big time players backing him up, poor ol' Elton still can't function any better than a rotten banana. To make matters worse, he's still dragging that sorry old Elton John AIDS Foundation parakeet around on his shoulder. (Hey ignorant assholes! You can even get an E.J. AIDS Foundation VISA card now! VOMIT, COUGH, PUKE.) If you want Elton, get the CD reissues of his early albums...before...everything...went...so terribly...wrong. But even more distressing than hearing this old "man" attempting to ignite a spark that has long since died...is hearing the idiotic audience of swarming retards SCREAMING for more. (Just goes to show that shit really DOES attract FLIES.) A true hero for the ignorant, the stupid, and the shallow. Man, this is truly LAME. (Rating: 1)

Lilys - Selected (CD EP, File 13, Pop)
We've been following this band's career almost from the beginning. Part of what is so appealing about Lilys is that you never know quite what to expect. Bandleader Kurt Heasley's career is schizophrenic to say the least. He has dabbled in psychedelia, power pop, electronica, and obscure experimentation. The band's last full-length CD The Three Way was not quite up to our expectations...but still light years ahead of other stuff released the same year. After a two year hiatus, Lilys are back with the Selected EP...and a new label to boot. Oddly, this EP is in some ways a return to the band's original guitar drenched psychedelic pop sound. Most of the tunes are reworked versions of songs that were written years earlier. It is our measley little opinion that the very BEST Lilys release to date is Ecsame the Photon Band...but most folks would say that the more straightforward pop approach of Better Can't Make Your Life Better is superior. In any case, this EP captures the essence of many of the band's multi-faceted sound...and possibly paves the way for more experimental waters ahead (?). We are hoping like Hell that a full-length is in the works. Just can't get enough of this band's stuff. We still maintain that Lilys are one of the best and most unique bands to surface during the past decade... (Rating: 5+)

Marilyn Manson - Holywood (CD, Nothing/Interscope, Rock)
Whether you love the music or hate it, you have to admit that the artwork on Marilyn Manson CDs is always INCREDIBLE. Actually...looking back over the band's career thus far...what put us under Mr. Manson's spell all along has been the publicity photos and, particularly, the artwork that is associated with the band. The images are surreal, frightening, intriciate and beautiful, and not at all unlike some of Salvadore Dali's work...had he been a devil worshipper. But then, there is more to any band than just photos and artwork. Holywood is about as good as any of Manson's previous efforts. The industrial wall of blasting sound is still intact, and his screams are still believable. Judging from the last performance we attended, we find it rather interesting that his audience seems to be turning more and more into suburban kids and middle-aged conservatively dressed adults. Weird, huh? All the true freaks and weirdos probably hopped ship long, long ago...as they watched their hero become more and more "holywood" (just as his mentor Alice Cooper did long, long ago). Next thing you know Marilyn will be playing golf with movie stars too. But what we wonder is...why jump ship now? The band is still basically doing what they started out doing...but now they're better at it...and the stage shows have improved greatly (more money involved, natch)... Perhaps we still dig Marilyn because...deep in our hearts...we are still suburban mall brats. Always entertaining in any form, Marilyn Manson remains an intriguing (social) phenomenon... (Rating: 5)

Nine Inch Nails - Things Falling Apart (CD, Nothing, Rock/industrial)
For those who missed out on the last release from Nine Inch Nails, it might be a very good idea to get your hands on a copy of the double CD The Fragile. While the album was acclaimed by critics worldwide, it seemed as if many fans and/or listeners didn't seem to get it. (Not surprising, as the album was an exercise in difficult listening to be certain.) In any case, Fragile was one big mindblowing experience. Now we have the follow up...a CD collection of remixes of tunes from Fragile...plus a cover of a Gary Numan song and a track recorded during the Fragile sessions but never released. In the usual case, an album of remixes is nothing more than an artist or artists reworking material that has already been recorded for the sole purpose of stroking their own egos or to simply sell more units...without having to do all the work. In the case of NIN remix albums, this is NEVER the case. Instead of hashing out dribble to make a buck, mainman Trent Reznor never forfeits substance in the process. While Reznor had his hands in some of these remixes, in many others he did not. Other folks doing the handiwork include Alan Moulder, Keith Hillebrandt, Adrian Sherwood, Benelli, Dave Ogilvie...and others. These are inventive and highly experimental pieces...and we find it impressive indeed that something this bizarre will reach as many folks' CD players as it most definitely will. Sure, we'd always prefer a brand new album of all new material...but in this case, a CD of remixes goes over JUST FINE in the meantime... (Rating: 5+)

Palace of Oranges - Prepare to Greet a Guest (CD, Rubric, Rock/pop)
Hmmmm....hard to decide WHAT to make of this one...at first... Palace of Oranges is the new project spearheaded by Shambie Singer whose Tuscaloosa, Alabama band The Lonely Moans released several records back in the 1980s. Mr. Singer moved to California...and now fronts Palace of Oranges. This is a VERY heavy guitar band with references to pop, but with a very drony and--at times--monotonous approach (not that monotony is a bad thing, mind you). Don't let the straightforward approach of the opening track ("Ride My Bike To Istanbul") fool you...this band by no means fires straight shots. But, oddly enough, it is the more abstract and unusual compositions that appeal to use the most. "Rind" in particular is a swirling blur of great rock and roll energy...and is very reminiscent of something that might have appeared on The Feelies' first album. The song builds and builds and then retreats and then builds and builds again to an amazing climax. You'll have to hear it to believe how good this one is. While the other tracks don't grab us quite as much, we still find this disc to be a good listen. Not completely consistent, but still good nonetheless. Singer is accompanied by Lee Daffron (guitar, vocals) and Matt Fuller (drums, percussion). (Rating: 4-)

Danilo Perez - Motherland (CD, Verve, Jazz)
Wow...this is GREAT. Superb free-flowing piano-based jazz with a Latin flavor. After giving Motherland a spin, it's no wonder so many folks have gone apeshit over the music of Danilo Perez. Some of the tunes have vocals while others are instrumentals. We prefer BOTH. Mr. Perez has a magical way with his fingers, and his music seems to flow as naturally from his body as wine from a gingerbread man. Interestingly, Perez was recently named Cultural Ambassador to Panama. Now ain't DAT some shit! But seriously...if you want gliding ethereal jazzy Latin stuff, you won't do much better than this. This is a high class production executed with class and style. LOVE the horns (!). Great for parties or for playing in the background while you inhale assorted household products... (Rating: 5)

The Port Huron Statement - Home Recordings 1997 - 1999 (CD, Bittersweet, Pop)
Besides being an entertaining listen, this CD is important for a couple of other reasons. First, this release is being promoted by Katherine Everhart (who for the past seven years has been publishing the zine Bittersweet out of Charlotte, NC). Secondly, The Port Huron Statement is a collection of (mostly) solo recordings by Chip Taylor who made quite a splash in underground circles with his previous band Sticky (whose material was released on the Pitch-A-Tent label). So...here we have a collection of 4-track home recordings. The music is lo-fi pop music, and the songs themselves come across as demonstration recordings (which was probably the intent). But what is striking here are the songs. Mr. Taylor's tunes are reminiscent of early Elvis Costello and so is his vocal style. There are some great moments to be heard in the course of listening to the 22 tunes on this disc...particularly in the melody department. It'll be great to hear this fellow's material fleshed out more completely at some point in the future. Judging from this disc, we'd bet that this is a recording artist to keep your ears alert for... Sorry, no web sites listed...but you can write Bittersweet at 1912 Park Road, Charlotte, NC 28203. (Rating: 3+)

The Red Telephone - Cellar Songs (CD, Raise Giant Frogs, Pop)
Nice atmospheric pop music with a heavy emphasis on spacey guitars. Boston's Red Telephone have been around for some time now. The band was previously signed to Warner Brothers, but was fortunate enough to survive their "bad major label" ordeal. Fortunate for them and their listeners, as Cellar Songs is a well-paced and adventurous foray into progressive pop terrain. While the band's tunes have a definite commercial quality, the offbeat instrumental segments always keep things from becoming too safe or samey. Being the guitar freaks that we are, we are blown away by some of the psychedelic strings here... Our favorites are "Pennsylvania" and "Teenage Mother Earth." Very good stuff... (Rating: 4+)

Silver Scooter - Goodbye EP (CD EP, Peek-A-Boo, Pop)
Mmmmmmm, mmmmmm! We are absolutely of liking very much wonderful music of pop band what is calling Silver Scooter. Before many fan get very, very upset..."goodbye" what is referred to in CD and title track only word in song. Band NOT calling it quits, fortunate for one and all! Last full-length Silver Scooter CD was very much of entertainment value indeed. Funny thing...there so many pop band in world...and yet this band stand out for not so obvious reason. Is what is basic to call "guitar pop" yet something of slight difference is underneath...this difference is what is for making subtle, unique sound. Four tunes here all hummable and upbeat, with certain something that make ears in main office area go twitching back and around. Wonderful for writing ability, and even playing all around. Something nice again from most wonderful and extremely to be PROMISING young pop banding... (Rating: 5+)

SMP - Terminal (CD, ADSR Muscwerks, Industrial pop/rock)
The three men in SMP have been at it for quite awhile now...releasing one cool industrial pop release after another...and many of their compositions have now appeared on tons of compilation CDs. Terminal reminds us in many ways of some of Babyland's later material. The music is mid-tempo danceable pop with an industrial edge. The vocals are far superior to what one usually finds in the industrial wasteland. Many technologically oriented bands seem hellbent on distorting their vocals to the point of oversaturation. The men in SMP do not fall into this trap. While the music bops along naturally the band never throws the idea of intelligible lyrics out with the baby's bathwater. (This could be because their lyrics are quite credible and interesting.) The cover artwork of a molten/metallic lady is absolutely STUNNING. These guys are doing all the right things, the right way, with style and integrity... (Rating: 4+)

The Twentieth Century (A goddamn look back contextual sort of thing)
So now that we're about to enter the twenty-first century...let's take a few moments to look back at what has happened during the past 100 years. Hmmmm...let's see now... Millions and millions of people were born...when there were already too many people...so that's one really unfortunate tragedy. People became more and more civilized. That's certainly not a good thing... Governments and corporations grew in leaps and bounds...another tragedy. Cities sprouted up everywhere and grew and grew and grew...another tragedy. And near the end of the century, technology suddenly took over... Gee, it seems as if everything that happened in the past century was a tragedy. Could this be true? Perhaps we should stop to consider...what WASN'T a tragedy...? Well...AIDS came along and killed lots of people. That's a plus. Famine and disease have done away with thousands and thousands of people in third world countries. That is certainly no tragedy (!). And then...what just might be our favorite occurence over the past decade or so...the earth itself seems to be reacting to human overpopulation...by killing off more and more people with incredible natural disasters. That's a BIG plus. We always applaud it when the earth wins. Oops...almost forgot. The twentieth century also gave us The Teletubbies and The Ramones. Those are two truly GREAT things... But you know, when you stop to think about it...mankind hasn't really achieved anything in the past hundred years. Not a single goddamn THING. People think they're so smart, but they're actually the dumbest animals on the planet. So hey...anyone out there have any NOVEL IDEAS on what you think were the pros and cons of the past century? If so, we want you to know that we really have NO INTEREST WHATSOEVER in hearing from you. If you write, you can be certain that your opinions and ideas will be diverted straight into our garbage can...never to be read by anyone. So why not spend an hour or two...or three or four...coming up with your own original ideas and then e-mail them to us? Then you'll be wasting your time...just like you ALWAYS do. Silly dumdums... Don't you EVER learn...? (Not Rated)

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