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June 2002 Reviews by
About
E-mails | The babysue®
Store | General Info | LMNOP®
| Official T-Shirts | Review Policies | Subscribe
June 2002 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
June 2002 Comment Piece: Nothing To Say
It doesn't happen very often, but this month we have NOTHING TO SAY. We've been saying so much for such a VERY LONG TIME that we just decided that we don't really have any comments on anything at the present time...which is, in a way, actually saying something. And that is because if we make a statement saying that we have nothing to say then what we are doing is actually saying something. So in a way this comment piece is a complete contradiction. But then, by the mere fact that we are stating it is a contradiction in a way that makes it NOT be a contradiction...doesn't it? It's funny how...when you really have nothing to say...that it actually takes a VERY LONG TIME to say it, isn't it? And in another kind of way, isn't EVERYTHING kind of funny and odd? The point of all of this is that there is no point to all of this. Perhaps next month we will think of something heady, relevant, or offensive. But in the meantime, this is just the way that things are. So...without further delay...here are those goddamn REVIEWS...
Alfie - A Word In Your Ear (British import CD, Twisted
Nerve / Beggars Banquet,
Soft pop)
Writing and recording on the west coast of England, Alfie is as smooth
and effective as english muffins with strawberry jam. The band's debut album
was the humorously titled If You Happy With You Need Do Nothing.
That release caught the attention of a great many folks...all of which will
be as happy as punch with the follow-up. A Word In Your Ear offers
a wealth of soothing, thoughtful pop music featuring stellar arrangements
and fantastic melodies. Lead singer Lee Gorton has a voice that is
truly effective for this style of music...sounding slightly reminiscent
of Donovan and Al Stewart. The main difference, however, is
the fact that Alfie tunes are strikingly progressive in nature. Instead
of samey formulas and predictability this band presents pop music with a
difference. Unusual rhythms collide with strangely effective musical passages
to create an album that is simultaneously unpredictable and easy on the
ears. This is an album that will instantly satisfy fans of soft, lush pop
music. Songs such as "Cloudy Lemonade," "Halfway Home,"
"Me and Mine," and "The Lighthouse Keeper" are INSTANT
CLASSICS. (Rating: 5+++)
Anandi - The Mirror (Independently released CD, Pop)
Folks who enjoyed early Kate Bush and early Bonnie Raitt will
most likely enjoy this album. Anandi (the name means "bliss"
in Sanskrit) is an up-and-coming female vocalist who knows her stuff. She
wrote all ten songs on The Mirror...and she has a voice that absolutely
kicks ASS. Anandi's slightly soulful pop music is highly melodic. Her lyrics
present a keen sensitivity to the world around her. The production is slick...but
not so slick as to overshadow the main elements of the tunes. This young
lady is a powerful newcomer and obviously destined for even greater things
in the future. Top picks: "Enough of You," "How Sweet It
Was," "Forgiveness," "Where You Started From."
(Rating: 4+++)
The Anomoanon - Envoi Villon (CD, Galaxia,
Acoustic pop)
An absolutely gripping and unforgettable recording from The Anomoanon.
This release can be had either on CD or on etched 12" vinyl. This band
presents stunning acoustic-based pop with a hint of country that is not
unlike very early Neil Young. The songs take center stage...featuring
wonderfully winding melody lines and lyrics that ooze with sincerity. Guitarist/vocalist
Ned Oldham has a voice that could make grandmothers shiver. The man
has a presence and genuine spirit that seems to seep from the speakers and
permanently take up residence in the mind of the listener. Within the space
of a mere four tracks, these folks manage to come up with a release that
is amazingly striking and focused. Superb stuff. (Rating: 5+++)
Asphalt Jungle - Electro Ave. (CD, ROIR,
Techno/dance/jazz)
Funky instrumental beat music with superb guitars. Asphalt Jungle
is the duo of Brian Tarquin and Chris Ingram. Together they
write, record, and produce thick and intense instrumental compositions that
are heavy on rhythms and spacey guitar work. The music sounds something
like a cross between The Chemical Brothers and The Grassy Knoll.
Tarquin and Ingram have had their music featured on television shows such
as Road Rules and have also produced music for the shows The X-Files
and Making the Band. The compositions on Electro Ave. are
heavily produced tunes based upon throbbing dance beats...but this music
has little in common with generic techno. The music is smart, inventive,
sometimes unpredictable, and quite hypnotic. Choice cuts include "Last
Crusader," "Foxy," "Flight of Plato," and "Medusa."
(Rating: 4+++)
Atom and His Package - Hamburger (CD EP, File
13, Pop)
Upbeat goofy pop that sounds something like a cross between Joy Electric
and Chris Stamey (?!?). "I'm Downright Amazed At What I Can
Destroy With Just A Hammer" features a wonderful blend of keyboard
noodling and fuzzy guitars...and the vocal melody is excellent. The lyrics
to "Fraudulent" and "Head Gone Vertical" are both inventive
and humorous. Despite the fact that these folks are approaching music from
what might be described as a comedic perspective...their tunes are by no
means novelties nor jokes. "Sebastian In Nigeria" sounds like
a cross between goofy punk and ambient music (???). Atom and His Package
is a strange little band to be certain...but underneath the silly lyrics
and crazy sounds are songs that must be heard... (Rating: 4++)
Azure Ray - Burn and Shiver (CD, Warm
Electronic Recordings, Soft pop)
Orenda Fink and Maria Taylor have come a long way in a very
short time. Their success just goes to show that when you have something
truly credible and incredible to offer...a good number of folks will actually
sit up and take notice. The two ladies began Azure Ray as a side
project (they are both in other bands as well). Audience response was so
strong that both, thankfully, opted to devote more time to this engaging
project. Once again, the duo teamed up with producer Eric Bachmann.
You might think that with the buzz that they have created these ladies would
have opted to take a more commercial approach...but instead the exact opposite
is true. Burn and Shiver is even more obtuse and peculiar sounding
than prior releases...but it is also more highly produced. The strangely
sad threads in the lyrics and music remain intact...and those heavenly vocals
remain wholly intact. There are few musicians we have heard in the past
few years who have reached such a high artistic peak...and have managed
to keep the quality up. This album is more haunting than the first two Azure
Ray releases...and that's saying a lot. Bachmann once again incorporates
just the right sounds and production techniques to enhance and accentuate
that is already there. Mind bending and hypnotic. (Rating: 6)
Babalu
- The Ultra Wide Band Meets the Mighty Babalu Pt. 2 In Hi-Fi Lo-Tech
Spaceblues (CD, EWB / Kindercore,
Electronic/instrumental)
Sporting a title longer than a big brown baby bonnet, this album is a collaboration
between Babalu and the Ultra Wide Band collective. The electronic
compositions on this album present a combination of styles ranging from
dance to dub to ambient to experimental. Interestingly, some of the cuts
here date back to as early as 1997. No cute electronic twiddling here. These
songs are thick and heady...and based on throbbing, hypnotic beats...and
there is seemingly no formula, rhyme, nor reason to the goings on. While
the tracks are instrumentals, sampled vocals and voices creep in from time
to time. This is the kinda stuff that you either like or you hate. In our
minds, groove-oriented music is always a nice kick in the ass. Accordingly,
this is a nice free-flowing collection of tunes that is both entertaining
and simultaneously relaxing... (Rating: 4+)
The Bevis Frond - What Did for the Dinosaurs (CD, Rubric,
Pop)
An underground cult favorite for years, The Bevis Frond is back...with
their first new album since 2000's wonderfully satisfying Valedictory
Songs. The first digitally recorded music thus recorded by founder and
mainman Nick Saloman, this album charts territory not unlike early
BF releases. The main differences are (a) the drastically improved sound
quality and (b) thicker and more elaborate arrangements. Saloman's songs
are as strong as ever...and his vocals have a nice urgent quality that is
intriguing and genuine. This album contains a whopping eighteen tunes. Many
of these compositions are direct and obvious. As is to be expected, the
guitar playing is satisfying throughout. In a world full of phonies and
folks trying way too hard to be "cool"...Mr. Saloman stands out
as a true spirit in the world of music. Top picks: "The Wrong Side,"
"Our Number," "Breathe Out," "Down To Earth,"
"Dustbins in the Rain." (Rating: 5+)
Big Cities
(Oversized and overrated kind of shitty things)
Funny how everyone seems to gravitate towards BIG CITIES. The truth
is that ALL big cities are horrible. The stench of car fumes...the overcrowded
streets...the worthless bums on the streets...the pathetic and shabby big
buildings...the unmistakable emphasis on MONEY... What we find very confusing
is that most people who live in big cities see themselves as being superior
(??!??) to folks who live in smaller and more rural areas. In actuality
the exact OPPOSITE is true. Based upon our observations, big city dwellers
tend to be PHONY and ARROGANT...and their priorities are completely SCREWED
UP. Personally, we abhore ALL big cities...Los Angeles, New York, London,
Paris, Madrid...and MORE THAN ANY OTHER...the extremely shitty and pathetic
city of Atlanta. Big cities...what an overrated waste of time, money, and
space. (Rating: 1)
The
Blamed - Give Us Barabbas (CD, Tooth and Nail, Hard rock)
Hard, intelligent screamer rock. In the world of hard rock, overkill noise
bands are a dime a dozen...mainly because virtually anyone can turn an instrument
up full blast and whack the hell out of it and scream. And, in many cases,
this formula goes over well with the public. The Blamed are a hard
rock band with a definite extreme edge...but the band's music is anything
but a mere wall of noise. On the surface the listener may at first mistake
this band's brutal loud attack for heavy metal or thrash music, but labeling
these folks as such would be doing them a great disservice. These four gentlemen
are smart...and their musical arrangements are way beyond what one normally
hears in loud rock music. The tunes range from metal to jazz to explosive
and spastic...and the vocalist has a really intense voice that can shatter
and splatter midgets. Some of the instrumental passages sound difficult
to say the least. This esoteric band is playing for a young audience...those
who can still take the hard blows that they deliver. Top picks: "The
Lonely Zagreb," "You Not Me," "Szentendre," "Best
In Show." (Rating: 4+++)
Box
Car Racer - Box Car Racer (CD, MCA, Rock)
This young band is full of energy and melodies. While these guys fall into
the category of loud, powerful guitar bands their music is actually quite
different because the vocals are way up front in the mix and always right
on key (i.e., they are NOT mere screamers). But don't think that these four
guys are softies either because they kick ass with their instruments. In
overall tone, the sound of Box Car Racer is similar to Built To
Spill (particularly the vocals at times). Another plus in this band's
favor is the fact that you can tell one song from the other. With many hard
pop/rock bands you get nothing more than twelve slammed out numbers that
all sound the same. Not so here. The songs on this album are all uniquely
different and they are all easy to discern from one another. Lots of smart
lyrics and cool guitar licks complete the package...making this a band that
rocks enough for the kids but also has enough musical substance for the
older generation. Top cuts: "Tiny Voices," "Cat Like Thief,"
"The End With You," "Elevator." (Rating: 5)
Brand
New Sin - Brand New Sin (CD, Now or Never, Hard rock)
Hard and heavy macho cock rock. The six guys in Brand New Sin play
a brand of loud in-your-face rock music that has more in common with 1970s
southern rock than current metal bands. The band plays loud and hard...but
to their advantage, the main emphasis is on playing hard rather than playing
at a blinding speed (which is what many hard rock bands are guilty of doing).
The band hails from Syracuse...but vocalist Joe Altier could easily
pass for a good ol' Georgia boy. Fans of Lynyrd Skynyrd will definitely
like the sound of this man's voice. The band's hard rock tunes are infected
with a nice bluesy thread which makes the tunes really kick. This is a damn
fine debut album from a band that kicks monkey ass. Cuts like "Broken
Soul," "Sad Wings," "Missin You," and "Shattered"
ought to please fans who don't want the crap and attitude...but instead
just want to let loose and ROCK OUT. (Rating: 4+++)
Brothers of Conquest - All the Colors of Darkness (CD, Go-Kart,
Rock)
Raw, loud, masculine rock and roll played with big ol' hairy ballpower.
This band is fronted by vocalist Adam Neal (better known as The
Rock And Roll Outlaw). Neal was previously in the bands Hookers,
Nashville Pussy, and Nine Pound Hammer. This guy has an out-of-control
screamer style of singing that he has perfected over the years. His backing
band delivers mighty punches throughout this album. Particularly impressive
are the tasty (and many times extremely technical) lead guitars provided
by Tony Rivers. Instead of just smashing out power chords over plodding
rhythms these guys write songs based upon guitar riffs and the songs are
often quite difficult in terms of structure and rhythm. And like many great
loud rock bands of the 1970s, they throw tons of meaty little instrumental
hooks in their tunes that really make 'em COOK. Rip roaring tunes like "Kill
for Rock n' Roll," "Hot Southern Nights," and "Gravel
Roads" just make us wanna wave our fists in the air and scream "HEEEEEEEELLLL
YEAH!!!!" KILLER stuff...! (Rating: 5++)
Jerry
Cantrell - Degradation Trip (CD, Roadrunner, Rock/pop)
Heavy pop featuring sweeping melodies and thick guitars. Jerry Cantrell
was formerly with the band Alice In Chains. His bluesy, raw brand
of powerful guitar pop treads nicely in that territory between heavy metal
and power pop. Mr. Cantrell is proficient in coming up with good guitar
riffs and at writing good melodies. The two combine on Degradation Trip
to deliver some nice and surprisingly accessible hard pop. In some ways,
many of these tunes remind us of some of Todd Rundgren's material
from the 1980s. Like Rundgren, Cantrell has long hair and knows how to sling
an axe. Another similarity are the vocals. Many of the tunes on this album
feature thick doubled vocals and exceptional harmonies. Plenty of good tunes
here including "Psychotic Break," "Solitude," "Give
It A Name," and "Spiderbite." (Rating: 4+++)
Capitol
K - Island Row (British import CD, XL Recordings / Beggars
Banquet, Ambient/electronic/experimental pop)
Strangely peculiar...and only slightly familiar. Capitol K sounds
unlike other British recording artists we have heard. The band is the one
man band consisting of Kristian Craig Robinson. Mr. Robinson's writing...as
well as the overall sound of his music...has a great deal in common with
American electronic/experimental artists. His music balances nicely on that
fine thin line between experimental noise and familiar pop. Robinson never
veers too far in either direction, instead relying on his instincts to take
him to places that his audience can comprehend. This is an important variable.
Many artists...in their efforts to be original and unique...go so far off
the deep end that they alienate the very people they are attempting to entertain.
Mr. Robinson comes close to going off the deep end on many of the tracks
on Island Row...but he stops just short of self-indulgence. This
heady collection of tunes includes "City," "Darussalam,"
"Heat," the "Duffle Coat." Intriguing... (Rating: 5)
Vanessa
Carlton - Be Not Nobody (CD, A&M, Pop)
What would Ben Folds sound like if he were a...GIRL? To find the
answer to that question, one need only spin the new CD by Vanessa Carlton.
This young lady's upbeat piano-based pop has a great deal in common with
the great Mr. Folds in terms of overall sound, melodic sense, and general
intent. The main difference between the two is that in many cases Carlton's
music has a more loose, bluesy feel. The majority of the tunes on Be
Not Nobody are thick, highly polished tracks with overdubs galore. The
tunes with more space tend to sound best ("A Thousand Miles" and
"Pretty Baby" are both good examples of what Vanessa is capable
of). While this album tends to be a bit overproduced, that is a minor point
when you consider what this young lady manages to accomplish. Highly melodic
slick. (Rating: 4++)
Church
of Betty - Tripping With Wanda (CD,
Fang, Pop)
The Church of Betty is the recording project of Chris Rael,
who is a producer as well as a composer, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist.
Rael began the band in 1989 and has since captured the imagination of many.
This is the first release we have heard from Church of Betty. The first
thing that stands out about this band is the use of sitar (?) mixed in with
traditional pop instruments. Our first reaction was that it seemed confusing...but
after a couple of spins it became obvious that this idea works. The sound
is something like mixing the Archies and the Beatles with
Natacha Atlas. These compositions are thick and heady...possibly
because Rael brought together an amazing number of musicians to assist on
the project. The number of instruments used on this album is nothing short
of astounding. Interestingly, Rael co-wrote two of the tunes with one of
our favorite underground artists...Kenny Siegal of Johnny Society
(this guy is truly amazing). Siegal also co-produced several of the cuts.
This is a very eclectic album full of surprises and spilling over the brim
with imagination. So much so that this CD will probably be over the heads
of most listeners. In any event, Church of Betty is a keeper for sure. Pop
music with a unique and definite difference. (Rating: 5+)
Cinerama - Torino (CD, Manifesto,
Pop)
Possibly the most fully realized Cinerama release yet, Torino
is a step forward for David Gedge while returning to his roots. The
main difference between Torino and previous Cinerama releases is
the obvious and intense presence of guitars. Fans of Gedge's former band
(The Wedding Present) will be happy indeed with these louder and
more aggressive tunes. But make no mistake about it, this album is by no
means a mere rehashing of ideas from the Wedding Present. Instead, Gedge
melds the styles of both of his bands to create a sound that is current,
relevant, and very moving. There are few artists we can think of who have
weathered the test of time like Gedge...and Torino is proof of the
fact. Cool, melodic, uptempo tunes like "And When She Was Bad,"
"Cat Girl Tights," and "Close Up" make this yet another
ultimately satisfying release... (Rating: 5+)
Clarinette - Haze (Vinyl LP, ecstatic yod, Experimental/instrumental)
Clarinette is Dan Vallor, a new experimental electronic music
artist. The five cuts on this album are peculiar and esoteric. These compositions
do not involve melodies or song structures that one would commonly recognize.
Instead, the tracks are experiments in sound. The music falls somewhere
in between the genres of ambient and modern classical. There is no web site
listed for either the artist nor the record label. Policy prevents us from
rating this release, but interested parties are advised to contact Dan directly
at his e-mail address: dvallor@yahoo.com. (Not Rated)
The Color Red - Clear (CD, RCA / BMG,
Rock)
The band may not like the comparison, but The Color Red sound very
much like Duran Duran...except the guitars are louder and the rhythms
more forceful. This Southern California rock quintet have a big, powerful
sound that will likely appeal to the arena rock crowd. Clear is the
band's second album. This collection of tunes has every possibility of becoming
a big seller. While the band may not be the most original sounding combo
ever to hit the planet, they are definitely providing what the public wants.
And that is not necessarily a bad thing... (Rating: 3+)
Crosstops - Cloverleaf Fandango (CD, Tinnitus,
Country punk/pop)
Loud redneck country-flavored pop/rock with raunchy vocals. These guys obviously
aren't taking themselves too seriously, and that is a good thing. The music
on Cloverleaf Fandango ranges from loud country punk to rather silly
bar humor. This album contains a whopping 18 tunes...many of which could
pass for punk rock were it not for the vocals. This disc is a good listen...but
we'd be willing to bet that Crosstops are one of those bands whose
main draw is their live show. And from the sound of these tunes we'd bet
these guys are entertaining as hell in concert... (Rating: 3+++)
Dora
Flood - Welcome (CD, Dora
Flood Records, Rock/pop)
Lush, dreamy, slightly psychedelic pop from San Francisco's Dora Flood.
This is an exceptionally well-executed batch of tunes, independently recorded
and financed by the band themselves. Some of the tunes on Welcome
remind us in some ways of The Lassie Foundation. While the overall
sound of Dora Flood is easy on the ears, the music is by no means sappy
or premeditated. The band's music features sweeping melodies and a sound
that merges fuzzy guitars with free flowing rhythms. The traits that make
this band sound unique are subtle and understated. For a band doing it all
on their own, these folks are doing all the right things...just the right
way. Tunes like "Welcome," "Give Us This Day" (a real
standout), "Eraser," and "Starflower" shed light on
a band that is providing exactly what fans of underground pop are looking
for. Sincere and real music for the intelligent listener. (The folks at
Deluxxe Media sure know how the right things to publicize!) (Rating:
5)
Dropsonic - Belle (CD, 54
40 or Fight!, Rock)
Hard rocking, super tight three piece guitar rock. This band's compositions
are deceptively complex. On the surface these three fellows may appear to
be simply churning out rock and roll formulas...but upon closer inspection
the listener is drawn in to surprisingly complex tunes that are based upon
what could only be described as some truly kickass drumming. The guys in
Dropsonic have a dense, thick sound that rocks hard while constantly
retaining melodies and intricate arrangements. The band consists of Dan
Dixon (guitars, vocals, keys), Dave Chase (bass), and Brian
Hunter (drums). Belle is chock full of smart rock played with
super tight nuts and frisky gusto. Top picks: "Stolen," "Eyesore,"
"Congregate," "Did You Notice." (Rating: 5)
Duraluxe - The Suitcase (CD, Hidden Agenda, Pop)
Heady, heavenly, thickly produced pop. Duraluxe tunes range from
hummable Beatles-like material to swirling walls of sound reminiscent
of bands like The Flaming Lips and Mercury Rev. The band began
in 1997 in the unlikely city of Nashville, Tennessee when producer/engineer
Chris Colbert and guitarist Troy Daugherty began playing music
together. Our favorites on this CD are the more reserved numbers such as
"7ths & Minors" and "Phantom Power." On this album
former Lassie Foundation member Frank Lenz offers support
on piano, harmonies, and orchestrations. Pleasant pop for positive people.
(Rating: 4++)
Entropic
Advance - Red Yellow Noise (Double CD,
Symbolic Insight, Electronic/ambient/experimental)
Yeah. Oh YEAAAAAAH... This is a really trippy, super imaginative
limited edition double CD set that is sure to satisfy fans of experimental
electronic music. Entropic Advance is the duo of Wesley Davis
and Casey Jones. These two gentlemen play and incorporate a wide
array of sounds, ideas, and instruments into their mind-bending, psychedelic
electronic compositions. Unlike many electronic composers, their music is
NEVER boring (!). The music is somewhere in the territory between Nine
Inch Nails and Scorn (more the latter than the former). The band's
bio says it best: "Lush, haunting trumpet, vocals, and spaced-out slide
guitar textures, blend seamlessly with heavily manipulated tribal-electronic
beats, dark pulsating drones and glitches, and thick layers of delicious
ear candy." This pretty much sums up where these guys are coming from.
But what is so appealing is that they do it all SO WELL. The sound quality
is excellent...and these discs are chock full of audio surprises. It's like
opening a box of Cracker Jacks over and over and OVER again...continually
finding new surprises in the bottom of the box. This is a big whopper...containing
2 hours, 22 minutes and 59 seconds of sound. The vocals are heavily saturated
in effects and seem to drift over the music while the odd beats and puzzling
sounds zap the mind of the listener. With so much that can be done with
electronics, it's a shame there are so few people who are doing something
credible and imaginative. This is some great stuff, to be certain. With
only 1,000 copies made this double disc set is sure to be chomped up FAST.
Check out the web site and get yours now. (Rating: 5+++)
The Fall on Deaf Ears - The Fall on Deaf Ears (CD EP, Post-Parlo,
Obtuse hard rock)
Intentionally harsh and atonal hard rock with a bizarre river of energy.
The lo-fi sound of this CD is due to the fact that these songs were recorded
direct to 2 track tape in 1996 (and originally released on cassette tape!).
The Fall on Deaf Ears was a fierce and loud band with really rough
and intense vocals. The band's jagged guitars cut through some very nontraditional
rhythms to create a sound that was sharp and intense..and, at times, even
slightly frightening. These five songs are the band's only (!) recordings.
Shortly after they recorded these trippy tunes two of the members (Laura
Beard and Sarah Resier) were killed in an automobile accident.
As a result, this band's career was tragically cut short...leaving only
these five tunes to remember them by. If they had lived, these two ladies
would definitely have made a bigger dent in the world of music. Wild stuff,
not for the faint of heart... (Rating: 4+++)
The GC5
- Never Bet the Devil Your Head (CD, Thick,
Hard rock)
Pulling out of the driveway at 500 m.p.h. and never letting up, Ohio band
The GC5 are all sparked up and ready to pump some gas. These guys
play a style of no-holds-barred rock music that is instantly infectious
and virtually out of control. The quartet's youthful energy bounds and rebounds
in a wealth of catchy and sometimes hummable fast, loud rock tunes that
should drive kids into a sweaty and intense frenzy. Though the band's basic
formula is familiar (drums, bass, dual guitars in overdrive), the way these
guys make their music is unique in overall approach. That is to say, when
it's done right...it doesn't matter if it's all been done before (!). Plenty
of rip-roaring tunes here like "The Long Goodbye," "Lies
and Prophecies," and "Tear Down the Town" make Never Bet
the Devil Your Head a pure dose of high octane rock and roll... (Rating:
4+++)
The Hangmen - We've Got Blood on the Toes of our Boots (CD, Acetate, Rock)
Really CRANKIN' stuff. We've Got Blood on the Toes of our Boots captures
The Hangmen in a furious and mesmerizing concert. These guys play
balls-to-the-wall rock and roll like there's no tomorrow. Most bands would
give up after being dropped by not one but TWO major labels...but bandleader
Bryan Small refused to give up. This collection of tunes shows the
band rocking as hard as ever. The band's last album (Metallic I.O.U.)
was a favorite among critics...and this, the follow up, ought to please
just about everyone. Perseverance seems to be paying off for Small and company.
The band's fans (as well as the critics) now seem more supportive than ever.
The band's bluesy rock music should appeal to a wide segment of the listening
community. Rock stoppers like "Last Drive," "Rotten Sunday,"
and "Lonely" hit the spot... (Rating: 4+)
JrCorduroy - I Don't Want to be Around When You're Gone for Good (CD,
Sealed Fate, Pop)
Nice, thoughtful soft pop strong with exceptional lyrical content. Boston's
JrCorduroy is the trio consisting of Ben Hedlund (drums),
Mark Kraus (vocals, acoustic guitar), and Andy Santospargo
(electric guitar, cello). These fellows' hummable material is basically
upbeat but there is a sadness inherent in the lyrics that is strangely appealing.
Our favorites here are the soft numbers. "Would You Stay With Me"
has a nice twisting melody and the super soft vocals sound superb. "Where
the Street Lights Warm Your Golden Face," the closing number, the our
top pick. The tune is strikingly reminiscent of Hayden (whose work
we greatly admire). Readers should take note that the Sealed Fate
label is being run by the very talented Eric Masunaga who many folks
may remember for his excellent role playing in the seriously underapprecated
Dambuilders. (Rating: 4+)
K-Rad - Deli Mood Spot (CD, Someoddpilot,
Dub/dance/ambient/electronic)
Interesting...and quite heady...mixture of dub beats, samples, drum and
bass, ambient soundscapes, and trippy sounds. Deli Mood Spot is the
band's first official (and confusingly titled) album. The folks in K-Rad
seem to enjoy messing around with the speed of things. While drum beats
flow along in a nice, steady manner...the overlays often speed up and slow
down ever so slightly...giving the listener the feeling that he or she has
just downed a few hits of something or another... These folks create a mood
in which you can either tap your feet...dance to the music...or simply scratch
your head in confusion. The song titles are as abstract as the compositions:
"103BR18," "Vous," "177JIF," "126TINK"...
The band consists of Chris Grabowski, Joe Hahn, and Mark
Hardy. Cool, trippy stuff... (Rating: 5)
Donna
Lewis - Be Still (Promotional CD, Peruzzi, Soft ambient pop)
To look at this young lady's publicity photo, one would be inclined to think
that she is just another generic throwaway female pop vocalist...but nothing
could be further from the truth. Hidden inside the grooves of Be Still
(the promotional CD) is an extremely gifted and unorthodox singer/songwriter.
Instead of writing cutesy pop crap or dime-a-dozen dance tracks, Ms. Lewis
writes thoughtful soft pieces that feature wonderfully breathy vocals layered
over some intricate and, at times, rather odd ambient soundscapes. In some
ways, the music sounds like early Kate Bush had she been involved
with ambient electronics. What is most unique about these tunes, however,
is the fact that the music is extraordinarily sparse. In many instances
a song consists of nothing more than one keyboard and a few vocal tracks.
Many artists attempt to cover up the fact that their music has no substance
by overdubbing and overarranging. This is definitely NOT the case here.
The great big spaces in these tunes are what make them so appealing and
unique. Thoroughly enchanting tunes like "Ireland," "Nowhere
To Run," "Blutides," and "Moonbeam" make this disc
a fantastic listen. Listeners should be aware that this piece of music is
available ONLY as a download from Ms. Lewis' web site. So click on the link
above and get ready to download some truly GREAT stuff... Very soft and
wildly soothing... (Rating: 5++)
Gretchen
Lieberum - Brand New Morning (CD, Lakeshore, Female vocalist)
Soul-based pop music with a light and airy feel. Although she has had a
great deal of exposure on the Internet and on television, most people probably
don't recognize the name Gretchen Lieberum...yet. On Brand New
Morning, Gretchen combines the sensual elements of jazz singers from
the past with updated rhythms and modern recording techniques. Vocally,
Gretchen sounds something like a more soulful and relaxed Barbra Streisand...although
her singing style is by no means as forced and piercing (!). Lieberum's
debut album (Three A.M.) was not only a hit on the Internet...but
it also resulted in her being picked up by Lakeshore Records. The tunes
on this album are slick and well produced and should appeal to a wide range
of music fans. Ms. Lieberum has what it takes to make people feel good.
Fifteen cool cuts including "Brazen Girl," "Heart On Your
Sleeve," and "The Bed's Too Big Without You." (Rating: 4+++)
The Means - Vil/Viol (CD, Doubleplusgood,
Rock)
Loud in-your-face garage rock played with fierce intensity and belch-induced
fury. Frontman Jason Fredrick has a growling screaming roar of a
voice that could shake the dead out of Hell. The Means are a band
in constant overdrive. The rhythm section sounds like they've overdosed
on steroids...and the guitars are distorted and loose. But it's those over-the-top
vocals that are this band's trademark. These tunes are all rock and roll
with no additives...no frills...and no crappy production tricks. These men
shoot straight from their hips...and in doing so provide quality and totally
believable rip-roaring rock. Hard and furious show stoppers include "Primitive,"
"Record Holders in the Blood Purge," "Consider Yourself a
Hero," and "(t.p.) Massacre." Intense stuff played with great
big GUTS. (Rating: 4+++)
Mull
Historical Society - Loss (CD, XL Recordings / Beggars
Banquet, Smart pop)
Colin MacIntyre, the main man in the band Mull Historical Society,
has already caused quite a stir in the British music community. In his brief
career thus far, one of his band's releases was already picked as single
of the year by the NME in 2000. Mr. MacIntyre hails from Scotland,
but his music has more in common with British and/or American pop artists.
We can hear traces of a great many folks in this man's music, but some of
the more obvious (influences possibly?) are Harry Nilsson, Ben
Folds, and even the long lost obscure piano man Andy Pratt. MacIntyre's
tunes are thoughtful and extremely well written...and they possess a cool
sincerity that is often missing in modern pop. He has a way with words too.
His lyrics range from poignant and serious to strangely funny and peculiar.
This young fellow is destined to be a favorite among pop enthusiasts for
many years to come. He has that certain something that sets his music apart
from the rest of the crowd. Plenty of pleasing material here, including
"Public Service Announcement," "Instead," "This
Is Not Who We Were," and "Paper Houses." (Rating: 5++)
Michael
Nace - The Voyage Out (Import CD, Minority, Atmospheric pop)
Very nice, lush, soft pop music centered around the acoustic guitar. Michael
Nace's breathy vocals are sincere, genuine, and very effective. His
music is reminiscent of Neil Halstead in that his compositions are
personal and primarily based around very strong melody lines. This is a
truly amazing collection of tunes...particularly considering the fact that
this is Nace's debut full-length (!). The arrangements on this album are
precise, intricate, and far beyond what one normally hears on a pop album.
This is an extremely strong debut from a new artist who has a great deal
to offer in terms of talent, integrity, and presence. Top cuts include "All
of Them," "Time Passes," "Schuykill River," and
"I Will Go For the Millionth Time." (Rating: 5)
Nebula
- Dos E.P.'s (CD, MeteorCity,
Rock)
Underground stoner rock kings Nebula return with three new cuts and
a collection of various out-of-print cuts from earlier releases. An interesting
disc because it has tunes representative of how the band sounded when they
begun (much more like Fu Manchu) as well as tracks that reveal their
current sound. We've been crazy about Nebula ever since we first
laid ears on 'em...and we love their newer stuff just as much as the old
material. The basic formula consists of driving rhythms...big ol' fuzzy
guitars in overdrive...and masculine cocksucker vocals that drive that goddamn
vehicle all the way home. The three new cuts are "Rocket," "Long
Day," and "Bardo Airways." The remaining tracks were previously
available on two EPs. If you're into modern day stoner rock, you won't do
much better than this... (Rating: 5)
Nova
Social - The Jefferson Fracture (CD,
Big Sleep, Pop)
Impressive debut CD from the New York/New Jersey duo Nova Social.
The Jefferson Fracture features nice melodic pop in the vein of Ben
Folds. or even The Beatles. Melodies are strong throughout...and
the arrangements are amazingly professional and effective (the use of strings
is particularly nice). Nova Social is Thom Soriano and David Nagler...an
unlikely pair who look more like the boys next door than seriously talented
musicians. But seriously talented musicians they are...coming up with twelve
tunes that are literally infested with hooks...and all twelve tunes have
something to offer. These guys' songs are hummable, upbeat, impressive,
and thought provoking. Neat kickers like "Fingerprints," "Caravan
of Kindness," and "You Don't Have To Go To Bed Early Anymore"
make this album a cool and entertaining listen... (Rating: 4+++)
Over
Kill - Wrecking Everything - Live (CD,
Spitfire, Rock)
This album was recorded live in March 2002 at the Paramount Theatre in Ashbury
Park, New Jersey. Listening to this live recording it is easy to imagine
these guys sweating their balls and giving the crowd everything they've
got. The guitars are loud, the rhythms intense, and the vocalist has a throaty
cool vocal style that is just perfect for heavy metal. The album contains
thirteen crowed pleasers such as "Necroshine," "Evil Never
Dies," "Bleed Me," and "Un Union We Stand." An
excellent live recording that is certain to please the band's fans... (Rating:
4++)
Pia Fraus - In Solarium (CD, Clairecords,
Pop)
Beautiful and heady thick pop with breathy vocals. The sound of Estonia's
Pia Fraus is something like a cross between The Cocteau Twins
and Harpers Bizarre. The band has a thick sound that is heavy on
guitars and keyboards while the vocals are very melodic and right on target
for this style of music. The band's first album (Wonder What Its Like)
was released in a limited edition CD-R in Estonia. There are no less than
six individuals in Pia Fraus, which may explain the thick and complex arrangements.
On the first listen one might tend to dismiss these folks as just another
generic modern band with too much going on. Upon closer inspection, however,
it becomes obvious that these folks are absolutely skilled and intriguing
in the way that they construct their songs. The vocal melodies are far beyond
what is normally found in pop music. And even though the melodies sometimes
seem to be buried beneath a wall of sound, after a few spins the listener
is bound to find themselves happily humming along with these infectious
and thoroughly upbeat songs. Stunning cover art completes the package, making
this release both compelling and stunning. Best cuts: "400 & 57,"
"Bibado," "Octobergirl," "Zodalovers." (Rating:
5+)
Retsin
- Moon Money Moon (CD EP, Acuarela,
Folk)
Retsin is the duo of Cynthia Nelson and Tara Jane O'Neil.
The two met in 1993 and put out a release on Simple Machines in 1994. Nelson
and O'Neil continue to play in other bands while occasionally writing and
recording under the Retsin moniker. The five tunes on this EP are soothing,
gentle, and unpretentious folk featuring nice melodies and smooth vocals.
These five compositions have that nice warm home recorded sound. Unlike
most modern folk music that is churned out by the big companies, these tunes
are NOT overproduced. This EP includes "Duck Out," "Pauline
and Susie," "The Moon Fickle," "Money Song," and
"Moonshine." If you think The Indigo Girls are what folk
music is all about, you probably have had your head in the sand ever since
you were born. Forget crapola sellout schmuck folkies and get into the REAL
thing. Without a doubt, Retsin truly IS the real thing. Beautiful stuff.
(Rating: 5)
Rubyhorse - Rise (CD, Island,
Pop)
This Boston-based band plays a brand of slick pop music created for the
masses. Virtually every cut on Rise sounds like an FM radio hit.
This thickly produced collection of pop tunes obviously isn't breaking any
new ground...but that's probably not what the guys in Rubyhorse are
striving for anyway. While pleasant and unoffensive, the tunes on this album
unfortunately lack a true creative spark. If the band could or would take
some chances with their music they might have something. Taken as they are,
our own personal tastes require something with a bit more substance and
originality... (Rating: 3-)
Something
Corporate - Leaving Through the Window
(CD, Drive-Thru /
MCA, Pop/rock)
Something Corporate is kinda like a power pop version of Ben Folds.
The band's highly orchestrated pop music is upbeat and positive...but it
also has the bite of big fuzzy electric guitars. The centerpiece of the
band is Andrew McMahon...a 19 year old wonderkid who plays piano
and sings like nobody's business. McMahon cites Elton John and Billy
Joel as influences...but we (fortunately) hear little of either in his
music. Besides...neither Mrs. John nor Mr. Joel ever produced music that
rocked this hard. True to the name of the band, this is an extremely polished
album that was produced to the max to appeal to the masses. But even though
this is the case, these songs still have merit and provide a nice listening
experience... (Rating: 4)
Peter
Stuart - Propeller (CD, Vanguard, Pop)
Beautifully melodic, highly produced, and lightly orchestrated pop music.
This is the debut solo album from Peter Stuart who was formerly the
frontman in the band Dog's Eye View. Stuart writes pensive yet direct
pop tunes that feature floating melodies and thoughtful lyrics. He got his
start by being a roadie for the band Fat Lady Sings during which
time his payment was being allowed to be the opening act on the tour. One
thing led to another...and eventually Peter was able to sell a whopping
6,000 copies of his own self made demo. He then recorded two albums with
Dog's Eye View for the Columbia label...and then opted to go it alone.
Mr. Stuart has now found a proper home with other similar artists on the
highly regarded Vanguard label. While the majority of the tunes on Propeller
are accessible and upbeat, the tune that strikes us most is the sad and
remorseful "Bring You Back." Mr. Stuart is a songwriter with a
true flair for writing pleasant melodies...and his delivery is unique and
exceptional... (Rating: 5)
Sunday's Best - The Californian (CD, Polyvinyl
Record Company, Pop)
This is an album for fans of solid melodic guitar pop. Whereas your average
guitar pop band tends to churn out chords and layer vocal melodies over
the top, Sunday's Best approach things from a slightly different
angle. These fellows incorporate a much more intricate style of guitar playing
into their music. Instead of churning out samey power chords, guitar melodies
intertwine with some very effective vocal melodies to create a heady sound
with a real backbone. Since forming in 1997, this band has been through
their share of changes...some good, some not so good. But in the case of
The Californian it seems as if change was for the better, as this
is a shimmering, upbeat collection of smart pop music. As is the case with
any pop band, the real core of this band are the vocal melodies. Smooth
vocals ride the crests of the rhythms...soaring up and down and never wavering
off key for even a moment. Slightly offbeat chord changes help to transform
the band's tunes into a swirling mass of pop that is both danceable and
thought provoking. This is a great spin from start to finish. Excellent
cuts include "The Try," "The Californian" (a real mind
blower), "If We Had It Made," "Brave, But Brittle."
Truly yummy stuff. (Rating: 5+)
Track
Star - Lion Destroyed the Whole World
(CD, Better Looking Records,
Pop)
Lion Destroyed the Whole World is a great album. Track Star
is a completely mind blowing trio consisting of Brian Girgus (drums),
Wyatt Cusick (guitar, bass, vocals), and Matthew Troy (guitar,
bass, vocals). Although this band is difficult to compare to others, we
can hear traces of The Hang Ups, The Feelies, and even The
Shoes. Make no mistake about it, however, these guys clearly have their
own vision and sound. Using the most basic instruments possible these fellows
manage to push us way, way, WAY over the ledge of pop bliss. On the surface
the songs sound extremely simple...but the real magic is the way the pieces
of this puzzle are put together. In some ways this album reminds us of Talking
Heads 77 for the pure and simple reason that when that album was released
it didn't sound like anything else on the horizon. Lion Destroyed the
Whole World is one of those life changing albums that only comes around
every few years. Words cannot explain the brilliance of strangely peculiar
tunes like "Feet First," "The One We Play" (YEAH!),
"Goodbye to the Dream," "Something To Do," "Cross
Country," and "Cities on Cities." A very satisfying album.
(Rating: 5++)
John Vanderslice - Life and Death of An American Fourtracker (CD, Barsuk, Pop)
In a very short amount of time, John Vanderslice has created a seriously
devoted and intense fan base. With each release thus far, he has continued
to improve upon his original sound...coming up with increasingly spellbinding
material...sounding more and more focused with each passing year. Life
and Death of An American Fourtracker is John's most fully realized album
yet. The Bowie influences are beginning to fade away...as this release
sheds more light on this young man's own unique vision of the world. As
with past releases, melodies are the key ingredient...but the melody lines
are driven home by the fact that Mr. Vanderslice has a voice that is distinctly
perfect for the style of music he composes. Not only are these the strongest
tunes that John has yet to write...but this time around the lyrics are particularly
poignant and effective ("Underneath the Leaves" and "The
Mansion" are good examples of the fact). It is rare indeed to find
truly unique voices in the world of music. John Vanderslice is one of those
rare individuals who is following his own muse...consistently providing
satisfying and hypnotic music for an audience that is ready and willing
to follow his every move. Stunning pop masterpieces include "Fiend
In A Cloud," "Me and My 424," "The Mansion," "Greyhound,"
and "From Out Here." HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. (Rating: 6++)
Townes Van Zandt - A Gentle Evening With Townes Van Zandt (CD, Dualtone, Folk)
This is a live recording of Townes Van Zandt made November 26, 1969
at Carnegie Hall. Only 25 at the time, Van Zandt played a style of revolutionary
folk music made popular by Bob Dylan. At his best, Townes sang poignant
tunes strong on melody and coming straight from the heart. At times...and
only infrequently...his lyrics were a bit preachy. In this concert the man's
sincerity shines through...showcasing a young songwriter just hitting the
prime of his career. It is obvious from the noise of the crowd that Van
Zandt had his fans in the palm of his hand from beginning to end. The man's
husky voice and simple style of guitar playing are endearing and timeless.
Ten crowd pleasers including "Rake," "Second Lover's Song,"
"Lungs," and "Talking Thunderbird Wine Blues." (Rating:
4+)
Vomitory - Blood Rapture (CD, Metal
Blade, Death/speed metal)
Man oh man oh man oh MAN. Vomitory is CERTAIN to scare off most folks
with this release. Blood Rapture is one super LOUD, super ANGRY,
super FAST, super INTENSE batch of death/speed metal that is most definitely
more than most folks can (or would care to) handle. This band is not a one-shot
deal. They have been around since 1989 and they survived the 1990s metal
scene during which time most folks landed by the wayside. These four angry
gentlemen are still at it...and from the sound of these recordings they
show absolutely no signs of letting up. This band hashes, crashes, bashes,
slams and jams, growls and howls...and abuses the listener from every angle
possible. Plus they've got GREAT hair (!). Whatever this stuff is, it certainly
AIN'T happy stuff... (Rating: 4+++)
Tom Waits - Blood Money (CD, Epitaph,
Esoteric pop), Alice (CD, Epitaph,
Esoteric pop)
Tom Waits returns with not one...but TWO new albums...on the Epitaph
(?!?) label. Considering all artists over the past few decades there are
few who can match Mr. Waits in terms of originality, style, longevity...and
a completely unique way of approaching music. These two albums are the first
releases from Mr. Waits since 1999's Mule Variations. Not surprisingly,
Waits continues in his same strange tangent...playing sad, alienated, barroom
tunes that are as bizarre as they are startling. His gravelly voice is as
obtuse and peculiar sounding as ever. Blood Money and Alice
could have easily been combined into a two disc set...but it somehow seems
particularly fitting that they would be released separately. The folks at
Epitaph did a superb job on the packaging here. Each CD is packaged in a
asskicking digipack with enclosed lyric booklet. The latest publicity photos
of Mr. Waits are striking and unusual to say the least. At times he looks
very much like a person who has come back from the dead (?!?). As is the
case with all of his past albums, there are no bad or inferior tracks on
either of these CDs. Our personal favorites here are "Misery Is the
River of the World," "Knife Chase," "Calliope,"
"Alice," "Everything You Can Think," "Table Top
Joe," and "Fawn." Tom Waits is one of the truly unique originals
left in the world... (Rating: 6)
Paul Westerberg - Stereo (CD, Vagrant,
Pop)
Paul Westerberg (formerly of The Replacements) returns with
not one...but TWO new albums packaged together. The first album entitled
Stereo finds Westerberg playing and singing everything himself. The
second album entitled Mono features Paul's band Grandpa Boy.
As one might expect, the first disc is softer and more pensive...while the
second disc features the kind of rock and roll music that made Westerberg
famous. The Replacements were overrated from the very beginning. While the
band had a few good songs, they had a great many more songs that were generic
and forgettable. While Westerberg's solo material may leave many Replacements
fans scratching their balding heads...in actuality, this fellow is a much
stronger writer and singer than he was when his face was splashed and plastered
all over the place. Stereo is proof of this fact. The album contains
a wealth of strong melodies...the lyrics are particularly effective...and
Mr. Westerberg's voice has never sounded better. Mono sounds very
much like an extension of The Replacements...and will most likely please
Paul's early fans. In reality, however, the first CD is the real keeper
here... (Rating: 4+)
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