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June 2004 Reviews by
About
E-mails | The babysue®
Store | General Info | Jokes
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| Official T-Shirts | Review Policies
June 2004 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
June 2004 Comment
Piece:
Why Did We Created You?
We are always being asked the question, "Why did we created you?" In order to get you to shut up (that'll be the day...), we have decided to offer you the TRUTH. We created you one day in late June long, long ago because we didn't have anything better to do. We didn't have any grand master plan and our intent wasn't to come up with anything more than something average in order to relieve boredom for a few minutes. Our motivation was something like that which one gets hit with on the beach when one wants to build a sand castle...but the only tool at hand is a tiny plastic cup. The cup is filled with wet sand and then dumped upside down to create a meek and quite officially dull lump that only slightly resembles a real castle. This is the same way that we created you. We didn't sit down and ponder it for a great period of time. We didn't envision any grand and wonderful things for your future. We simply balled up some leftover materials we had laying around on the floor and then plopped them down on earth...and whatever happened...just happened. Because we gave so little thought in creating you, we have always been perplexed as to why on earth you would spend so many wasted hours praising us to high heaven and back for "giving you the gift of life" (barf!). After all, it wasn't a gift at all. We were only thinking of ourselves. Our conclusion was that we had just created something very, very stupid. We are usually quite proud of the things that we create. But in your case, you have done nothing but let us down century after century after century. You could have been great but the fact is...you just aren't. So there you have it. The truth about your big ol' goddamn creation. It's kind of a letdown, isn't it? Just like everything else in the entire universe. Everything and everyone...nothing but great big DISAPPOINTMENTS. We aren't quite sure what you really are now...and quite frankly, we don't really care. Actually...we care about you a whole big amount and we really love you all the way and we wish you the happiest of nice things forever and always.
GG
Allin & The Murder Junkies - Raw, Brutal,
Rough & Bloody (DVD, Music
Video Distributors, Shock rock)
Raw, Brutal, Rough & Bloody contains some of the best GG Allin
footage we have seen in terms of both quality and content. The DVD contains
three complete shows: San Diego (9/27/91), Chicago (10/10/91), and Atlanta
(11/20/91). Watching these concerts, it suddenly became obvious to us how
very much Mr. Allin resembled a baby in his concerts. After all, his favorite
antics were (a) jumping around nekkid, (b) hurting himself, (c) throwing
tantrums, (d) screaming, and (e) shitting in front of people. Now ain't
that just like a baby? This is not meant to be a cut...but merely
an observation. While his intent may have been to shock (and he probably
did have that effect on most folks), GG never shocked us in the least.
He just made us laugh. When a grown man acts this childish and people pay
to see it...you've just gotta laugh (!). These three concerts provide
more of what GG's fans came to expect from him. One thing is for sure...you
either like this kinda stuff or you don't. We've always found GG to be rather
entertaining...and this DVD contains some truly funny stuff. Folks who are
shocked and offended by things like this are people who deserve to be shocked
and offended by things like this. God Bless GG Allin. There'll never be
another one like him...ever. (Not Rated)
Aroah - The Last Laugh (CD, Acuarela,
Soft pop)
Spain's Aroah seemingly came out of nowhere and then very quietly...and
very quickly...made great gains in the world of credible underground pop.
The Last Laugh is the second proper full-length album from this enchanting
young artist. Born of a Spanish father and an American mother, Aroah seems
to combine influences from both countries in her well-crafted compositions
(the liner notes are even appropriately given in both English and Spanish).
What is most impressive about Aroah's music is that...without using gimmicks
or obnoxious studio tricks...she comes off sounding totally original and
unique. Her music is understated to say the least...and her vocals are wonderfully
subtle. The Last Laugh is easily Aroah's best release yet. The album
is chock full of smart, well-written tunes that glide past like leaves in
the wind. If all artists had as much integrity as this young lady...the
world would be a much better place. Standout cuts include "An
Orchid Is A Flower That Thrives on Neglect," "Horoscope,"
"Madrid," and "Schooling." Fantastic from start to finish.
Highly recommended. (Rating: 5++++)
Auburn
Lull - Cast From the Platform (CD, Darla, Atmospheric pop)
Sounding something like a cross between John Cale, The Cocteau
Twins, and Eno...Michigan's Auburn Lull is a band that
creates sweeping, spacey, moody pop. Cast From the Platform is a
dreamy, casual spin...and it passes by just like the clouds in the sky.
Highly orchestrated and atmospheric, the tunes on this album are beautifully
crafted and thickened with layers upon layers of sound. The vocals are distant
and understated...allowing them to blend in and become one with the instruments.
At times the tunes play like soft, well-tempered pop...at other times the
proceedings transform into ambient washes of sound with no discernible melody
or structure. This blurry vibe is a real plus for the band. Listening to
their music is something like looking at a watercolor painting that is being
blurred by mist. Slightly hallucinogenic and decidedly peculiar, these folks
are playing for a small, esoteric audience. Heady cuts include "Building
Fifty," "Deterior," "Trenches," and "Shallow
In Youth." Imaginative and different. (Rating: 4++++)
The
Autumdivers - The Autumdivers (CD, Online Rock, Progressive pop)
Nice, intelligent, moody, soft progressive pop. The meat of this unit began
as a shoegazer band called Stillmotion which eventually transformed
into the Paul Gregory Group. With the addition of a permanent bassist
in 2001 the band adopted the name The Autumdivers. What stands out
most about this band are the vocals. Their super smooth soaring vocals are
light years beyond most everyone. Add the fact that these guys are superior
songwriters...and you have a band that just may be your new underground
favorite. The band's self-titled album is neither cute nor predictable.
Instead, the compositions found here are rather complex and unpredictable...and
there are few recognizable verse/chorus/verse/chorus shifts. The music has
a compelling flowing quality that makes it good for listening or driving...or
just droning away in the background. Cool intermingling guitars ring and
chime while the rhythm section's insistent drive keeps things right on track.
There is something about this music that draws the listener back for repeated
spins. Sort of like a subdued U2 without an asshole for a lead singer.
Well conceived and well produced. Impressive. (Rating: 4++++)
Bambi Diapers (Poem Kind of Thing)
There is a world
A different world
And it is filled with
Bambi Diapers.
Bambi Diapers
Curdle and whey.
That is the way
They know they must stay.
When Bambi Diapers
Curl up and die.
That is the day
We all say bye bye.
(Not Rated)
T.
Graham Brown - The Next Right Thing
(CD, Compendia Music Group,
Country/pop)
Good mid-tempo country/pop with leanings toward honkytonk. Unlike Toby
Keith...who always seems willing to stir up controversy...T. Graham
Brown provides country music with a solid backbone that doesn't ruffle
feathers nor delve into heavy topics. As such, the tunes on The Next
Right Thing are easy on the ears as well as the mind. Brown has a great
masculine husky voice that is focused and perfectly suited for the style
of music he plays. He contributed many of the tunes on this album himself
but also includes some well-chosen tunes written by others. But whether
he's playing his own material or that of others, Mr. Brown comes off sounding
confident...surrounding himself with top-notch players and recording engineers.
An easy crowd pleaser, The Next Right Thing focuses on all the things
that are great about country music. Top picks: "Tennessee Hideaway,"
"Tools for the Soul," "Use the Blues," and "Wine
Into Water." (Rating: 4+++)
Chagall - Soundlight (CD, Seven Thunders Music, Pop)
Anyone who has ever enjoyed the music of George Harrison, Neil
Innes, or Neil Finn will most likely get a kick out of Keith
Chagall (the title track was even written as a tribute to Harrison).
Soundlight is a super slick affair. For most of the tunes the thick
production works...but in a couple of cases it detracts. Chagall's debut
album came out almost a decade ago. The delay in getting this album recorded
was due to Keith being involved in a head-on car collision...but apparently
he has recovered and is in fine shape once again. Nice melodic pop numbers
include "Out of the Night," "I Know What You're Thinking,"
and "Share." (Rating: 4)
The
Damnwells - Bastards of the Beat (CD,
Epic, Pop)
Bastards of the Beat is a solid and thoroughly entertaining debut
album from The Damnwells. These guys seem to have it all...songs,
chops, and looks...and they've even got money behind 'em. Prior to
this release, the band put out two EPs that whetted the appetites of a lot
of listeners. Lyrically, this disc begins with one of the best first lines
ever to appear on an album: "Everybody grew up and turned
into assholes..." (from "Assholes"). But don't think
these guys are sarcastic, angry thrashers...because they aren't. These four
guys are classic songwriters and musicians...and the music on this CD is
extraordinarily focused and accomplished. The tunes range from soft folky
pop to mid-tempo rock. These guys don't delve into experimental or strange
territory. Their songs feature traditional instruments and familiar chord
changes...and yet their enthusiasm and talent somehow transforms their music
into something bigger than it seems on the surface. Thankfully, a lyric
booklet is included in this beautiful package so that the listener can follow
along. Bastards of the Beat will easily end up being one of the best
albums released in 2004. It's slick, thoughtful, memorable, and a truly
clean spin from start to finish. Cool compositions include "What You
Get," "Newborn History," "Electric Harmony" (a
truly exceptional tune), and "Texas." Recommended. (Rating: 5++)
The Davenports - Hi-Tech Lowlife (CD, Mother
West, Pop)
The Davenports is a project spearheaded by Scott Klass who,
up to this point, is best known as a prior musical partner with Fountains
of Wayne's Chris Collingwood in a former band. Not surprisingly,
Hi-Tech Lowlife offers pure positive pop that plays in the same vein
as Collingwood's compositions. Co-produced by Charles Newman and
Klass, this album is a slick and melodic affair. Klass writes smart tunes
that feature thick and sometimes busy arrangements and shed light on his
exceptional vocal skills. On first spin, one might be inclined to dismiss
this music as nothing more than generic pop coming down the pipes. Upon
closer observation, however, the nuances of these tunes sink in...proving
that this guy has a great deal more to offer than your average shallow popster.
Well written upbeat pop tunes include "Melissa Now," "A Deadhead's
Lament," and "Your the Only Girl For Me." (Rating: 4++)
Joe
Diffie - Tougher Than Nails (CD, Broken Bow, Country/pop)
Joe Diffie is getting better with age...and Tougher Than Nails
is easily his strongest album yet. Although the lyrics remain corny (seemingly
a trademark of Joe's music), the songs themselves are smart, strong, and
satisfying. Where Diffie really shines this time around is in the vocal
department. His deep, husky voice has never sounded better...and he has
never seemed this confident in the past. As is almost always the case with
country albums, the title track ("Tougher Than Nails") is the
weakest. After you get past that tune, however, things take a really good
turn for the better. The softest track ("If I Could Only Bring You
Back") is easily the strongest cut...and shows what a great singer
Diffie is when he sings words that are actually meaningful. While not a
perfect album, Tougher Than Nails offers positive proof of Diffie's
continued improvement as a singer and an artist. Judging from the sound
of this album, Diffie could prove to be a major contender in the years ahead...
(Rating: 4+++)
The Dirty Projectors - Slaves' Graves & Ballads (CD, Happy
Happy Birthday To Me / Western
Vinyl, Obtuse pop)
This album is an important release not only because it is truly unique and
unusual...but also because it combines the talents of some of the most talented
individuals and finest companies in the United States. The increasingly
influential Happy Happy Birthday To Me label paired up with the taste-conscious
folks at Western Vinyl (the same label that introduced babysue favorites
Faris Nourallah and Salim Nourallah to the world)...to release
the second album from Dave Longstreth (the man who calls himself
The Dirty Projectors). Also adding his own particular sensibilities
to these proceedings is Jason Nesmith (of Casper and the Cookies
fame)...who contributed his mastering abilities to the project. As such,
Slaves' Graves & Ballads truly is an all-star project (if
you're a fan of the fertile pop underground, that is). The band's debut
album (The Glad Fact) had everyone scratching their heads in confusion...and
this album will most likely elicit the same reaction. The main difference
is that--whereas the debut album contained in-your-face strangeness--Slaves'
Graves & Ballads is much more subtle and, as strange as it may sound,
features a healthy modern classical influence. Longstreth has a truly unusual
voice...yet it somehow merges perfectly with the varied instruments (flute,
oboe, clarinet, french horn, violin, cello, etc.) heard here. Folks into
early Tyrannosaurus Rex, The Frogs, and Bessie Smith
are likely to get a big charge out of this album. While it is certain to
leave most listeners standing naked in the dust...this is most certainly
a wonderful and intriguing collection of tunes that is so original that
it will probably only be embraced by an embarrassingly small number of listeners.
Ultra-clever creations include "Somberly, Kimberly," "We
Are Swaddled," "Unmoved," and "Obscure Wisdom."
(Rating: 5+++)
Rick
Dobbelaer - Interim (Independently released
CD EP, Pop)
Interim is a good example about what is so wonderful about home recording.
Singer/songwriter Rick Dobbelaer found out that he had to have a
heart transplant in 2003. Instead of sitting around moping and doing nothing
while transfixed on the upcoming event...Dobbelaer instead chose to use
his situation as an outlet for creativity. Not only did the project help
him get through what must have been a difficult time...but in the process
he also created something truly worthwhile and entertaining that he could
later share with others (as a celebration of sorts) once he got through
the operation (which he did, by the way...). The idea was a good
one...and fortunately the tunes are even better than the idea behind them.
This EP includes six highly melodic pop tunes that feature introspective
and strikingly honest lyrics. Dobbelaer is not just a man sitting at home
randomly twiddling knobs. This guy knows what he's doing. His songs
are mature, well-constructed, and memorable...and the sound quality is superb.
Heavenly pop tunes include "This Day," "Letter to Self,"
and "Load Your Guns" (a wonderfully heady and sensational piece).
Rick Dobbelaer is not a man whose music is being processed for the masses.
He is a real person creating credible, positive music as a vehicle for directly
communicating with other individuals. It is so refreshing to hear music
created by someone who is coming from such a sincerely genuine perspective.
And the fact that the songs kick ass don't hurt none neither (!).
Great stuff. Really great stuff...! (Rating: 5+)
Donovan - 7 Tease / Slow Down World (CD Reissue, Edsel,
Pop)
Two long lost treasures in Donovan's vast catalog are finally
available for the first time on CD. We have been waiting anxiously for decades
for some intelligent company to scoop up these treasures for a re-release...and
not surprisingly, it ended up being the tasteful folks at England's Edsel
label. These two albums (recorded in the 1970s) are thought by most to represent
the lowest point in Donovan's career...but nothing could be further from
the truth. In actuality, these two albums are right up there with Donovan's
very best albums. The only difference is...these two were not marketed
properly at the time and, as such, did not produce any hit singles. Recorded
in Nashville with the backing of some top-notch players, 7-Tease
contains some absolutely mind-blowing treasures that most folks have never
heard even to this day. Mesmerizing tunes include "Your Broken Heart"
(quite possibly the best Donovan song of all time), the autobiographical
(and hilarious) "The Ordinary Family," the soothing and ethereal
"Ride-a mile," "Sadness," Love of My Life," "The
Great Song of the Sky," and the poignant "The Quest." Some
of the louder numbers don't work quite as well...but that matters little.
The fact that this album has remained dormant for so many years is criminal.
Most folks might not have thought Donovan was hip during this period...but
then most folks are usually wrong about everything (!). 7-Tease
was a commercial flop...and Slow Down World didn't fare any better
in terms of sales. Until now, both albums had only been available as forgotten
vinyl novelties. Just as was the case with 7-Tease, the only reason
Slow Down World didn't fare any better is the fact that Donovan's
label wasn't behind him at the time...and people probably tended to dismiss
him as nothing more than a well-known has-been (to which he addresses the
point with the tune "A Well-Known Has-Been"). Produced by Donovan
himself, Slow Down World is another incredibly effective album with
some totally absorbing and unforgettable masterpieces...including "Dark-Eyed
Blue Jean Angel" (unbelievably perfect pop), "The Mountain,"
"Children of the World," "My Love Is True (Love Song),"
and "Slow Down World" (which features one of Mr. Lietch's most
beautiful, gliding melody lines). To add insult to injury, many years later
when Donovan released the utterly fantastic "comeback" album Sutras...it
went all but unnoticed except for the fact that it was produced by a modern
heavyweight (Rick Rubin). Donovan's hit singles from the 1960s will
always be treasures to many...but his truly meaty stuff (found on other
more obscure albums that came along later in his career) may be destined
to be appreciated by only a select few. Interested parties would be well-advised
to check out other forgotten later classics like Open Road, Essence
To Essence, Cosmic Wheels, and Donovan (an exceptionally
brilliant self-titled album which received virtually no attention when it
was released). Donovan will always be one of our favorite artists of all
time. In his many years of making music, he only released one bad album
(Neutronica). We highly recommend this disc. It is well worth the
money. (Rating: 5+++)
Jay
Farrar - Stone, Steel & Bright Lights
(Advance CD, Transmit Sound,
Pop/rock)
In his many years of making music (as a founding member of Uncle Tupelo
and Son Volt and then later as a solo artist) Jay Farrar had
never released a live album. Now that Farrar owns his own label (Transmit
Sound, formerly Act/Resist Records)...he can pretty much do whatever he
wants whenever he wants to do it...thus, the release of this live disc.
Live albums usually feature inferior versions of songs fans are already
familiar with. But in the case of Stone, Steel & Bright Lights,
Farrar has come up with a rather stunning collection of tunes accompanied
by the Washington, D.C.-based band Canyon. What is most impressive
about this album is Farrar's vocals. The man's sense of pitch and control
in a live setting is phenomenal. Surprisingly...many of these tunes are
as good or even better than the studio versions. In addition to previously
released tunes, the album also features two new songs ("Doesn't Have
To Be This Way" and "6 String Belief"). This is a hefty CD...featuring
a total of nineteen tracks. The official release also includes an eleven
song DVD featuring concert footage from Slim's in San Francisco. Easily
one of the best live albums released this year. (Rating: 5)
God Is A Poodle (Poem Kind of Thing)
God is a poodle
With ticks and worms
He scratches the ditches
And creams in the storm.
His bitchy old woman
Is watching the seas
As God picks his wisdom
With curry and cheese.
(Not Rated)
Graham
Colton Band - Drive (CD, Universal, Pop/rock)
Pure and upbeat feelgood pop/rock delivered direct without all the extras.
The guys in the Graham Colton Band play music that is very much in
the vein o.f pop music from the late 1970s. While the songs are obviously
formulaic...they are by no means boring or trite. On Drive, melodies
are the main ingredient...and there are plenty of fine, memorable melodies
here. Very hummable stuff here. Cool cuts include "Don't Give Up On
Me," "First Week," "Cut" (a real standout), and
"All the World Tonight." The only slight detracting factor is
that the vocals are a bit one-dimensional overall...but considering how
good the music is, that is a minor point. Highly entertaining stuff. (Rating:
4+++)
Hayden - Elk Lake Serenade (CD, Badman,
Folk/pop)
Another excellent release from one of the world's greatest songwriters.
Canada's Hayden Desser is something like a laidback modern-day Cat
Stevens. His voice is deep and expressive...his lyrics thoughtful and
personal...and he can truly evoke real emotions in the minds of his listeners.
Elk Lake Serenade may be Hayden's most varied release yet, featuring
more varied styles of music that on his previous albums. Make no mistake,
however, this man's meatiest treats are the simple recordings featuring
little more than him and his guitar. Using the bare minimum, Hayden does
more than bands with 4, 5, 10, or even 20 members. Hayden presents his tunes
with a great deal of sheer concentration and focus. So much so he makes
very simple tunes seem extraordinarily resonant and profound ("Woody"
is a good example of this.) While Elk Lake Serenade may not be Hayden's
strongest album, it is certainly a welcome addition to his catalog. Skyscraper
National Park (the previous album) was so incredible that it would have
been virtually impossible to follow it with anything stronger. For all its
strengths, Elk Lake does include a couple of clunkers. "Hollywood
Ending" is rather generic and "My Wife" just doesn't work.
That being said, there are some absolutely lovely tracks here. "Wide
Eyes" and "Killbear" are the best songs...which makes us
believe that Hayden would be well advised to focus on piano and strings
in the future. These instruments seem to complement his voice perfectly.
While not perfect, this is another great album from one of our favorite
artists of all time. Excellent cover art and lyric booklet. Recommended.
(Rating: 5+)
Kevin
House - Gutter Pastoral (CD, Bongo Beat, Soft pop)
Canada's Kevin House is a skilled songwriter with an incredible voice
and a keen melodic sense. Gutter Pastoral begins on a confusing note....an
electronic percussion-driven tune ("Stories Without Words") that
doesn't represent what the album sounds like as a whole. "Twilight
In Wilderness" quickly follows, however...and offers some of the best
aspects of Mr. House's music. His soft, gently played tunes are sincere,
heartfelt, and original...recalling a variety of artists from the past several
decades (including Hayden, Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan,
and Tom Waits). The sparse tune is accentuated by some lovely orchestral
elements that creep in and out of the mix. "Black Smoke Rising"
may well be the most memorable selection here. The lyrics are particularly
lovely...as is the unusually restrained horn solo. "I Don't Believe
In You" is a sad and reflective tune (particularly reminiscent of the
previously mentioned Hayden)...and it works wonderfully. This disc contains
a wealth of memorable cuts...each one following the other with a nice, absorbing
flow. Strangely, the album ends with one of the weakest tunes ("The
Fun Side of Death")...another electronic percussion-driven tune. With
the exception of the beginning and ending tracks, Gutter Pastoral
is a resounding success. Kevin House is obviously one of the most solid
and real upcoming talents in the world of soft folky pop. Recommended. (Rating:
5++)
L.A.
Tool and Die - Fashion for the Evildoer
(CD, AAJ, Pop)
L.A. Tool and Die is a band that is doing it for the right reason
which is simply...to have a good time. The fresh, sincere, upbeat
tunes on Fashion for the Evildoer are brimming over with good vibes.
The band's general direction may best be summed up by their appropriate
cover of the Sparks tune "Eaten By The Monster of Love."
L.A. Tool and Die is a lighthearted pop band with no interest in providing
difficult or complex music. Instead, the band members provide music that
is simple and direct. As a result, the album is an easy spin. The lyrics
and the playing are obviously genuine and heartfelt. This, the fourtieth
release (!) from Charlotte's AAJ Records is a keeper. Cool cuts include
"Jesus Saved Me at the Record Show," "Lucky For Me,"
and "Game Over." (Rating: 4+++)
Peggy Lee - Peggy Lee (DVD, Music
Video Distributors, Female vocalist/swing/jazz)
Peggy Lee will always be one of the most important and essential
female vocalists. She paved the way for thousands of ladies in the world
of music. There is no way of knowing how many other singers were influenced
by her...or how many others were influenced by singers who were influenced
by her. With her subtle and soothing presence, Ms. Lee could take
a tune and send it soaring into the heavens. Despite her somewhat limited
range, Peggy proved that intent and purpose meant everything. Many
of today's artists who seem to be struggling and pushing so hard to make
an impression could learn a great deal from Ms. Lee. Without ever breaking
a sweat, Peggy could magically hypnotize listeners. Peggy Lee (the
DVD) features six incredible telescriptions that show just how unbelievable
this young lady really was. Though this disc features only six tunes from
Lee, that is more than enough to make it a worthwhile endeavor. "I
Cover the Waterfront" is so good that it hurts. The telescription
of "I May Be Wrong"...which features Peggy singing while she sews...is
absolutely priceless. The DVD also features material from June
Christy, Ina Ray Hutton and Her Melodears, Lorraine Page and
Her Orchestra, and Rita Rio and Her Mistresses of Rhythm. The
folks at Idem Home Video are doing an impressive job of reissuing fantastic
vintage material in their "swing era" series...and this is possibly
their finest compilation yet. Fantastic stuff. (Rating: 5+++)
Mellowdrone - Go Get 'em Tiger (CD EP, Los Feliz, Pop)
Originally begun as a solo project, Mellowdrone became a full band
when frontman Jonathan Bates relocated to Los Angeles to play with
Greg Griffiths, Tony De Matteo, and Scott Ellis. Bates
had already made a name for himself opening up for Johnny Marr on
his 2003 tour of the United States. Now he and his fellow bandmates are
poised to take their music to the next level. If Go Get 'em Tiger
is any indication of what is in store for the future, these guys are going
to have a very fulfilling and luxurious career. This EP presents six intelligent,
lush pop tunes that feature exceptional melodies and heavenly vocals. The
arrangements are fantastic...thick, full, and spacious. In this case, the
band's name almost fits their music. These soft pop tunes are somewhat
mellow...and they also produce a slight droning effect. Expect Mellowdrone
to be an instant favorite among reviewers. Great tunes include "Bonemarrow,"
"Worst Song Ever," "Pretty Boy," and "Anglophile."
The more you spin this...the BETTER it GETS. BRILLIANT and INSTANTLY MEMORABLE.
(Rating: 5+++)
Midlake
- Bamnan and Slivercork (CD, Bella
Union, Pop)
Wonderfully understated electronic pop that sounds not unlike a cross between
The Kinks and The Flaming Lips. The confusingly-titled Bamnan
and Slivercork is an almost perfect melding of traditional and modern
musical styles. One unusual feature of Midlake tunes is how the drums
are mixed relatively far in the background...a very different approach from
virtually everyone else...which gives the music a slightly retrospective
feel. But make no mistake, the folks in this band are not throwback
dinosaurs. They are, in fact, precisely fantastic tunesmiths...coming up
with one unforgettable melody after another on this album. Songs are what
matter most, of course, and songs are the main feature here. Beginning with
the mind-numbing lyrical repetition of "They Cannot Let It Expand"
the band then launches into the heady and unforgettable "Balloon Maker."
Not only do these folks write great songs...they also embed them with intelligent
and thought-provoking lyrics which push the music to an entirely different
level. Lyrics are so often the weakest link in the chain...but not in the
case of Midlake. The lyrics are exceptional throughout. Destined to be an
underground favorite, Bamnan and Slivercork is an unusual dose of
something truly different. Exceptional. (Rating: 5+++)
Molasses - Trouble at Jinx Hotel (CD, Alien8
Recordings, Soft atmospheric pop)
Canada's Molasses caught the attention of a great many people early
on because of their strangely sparse music and intricate, individually prepared
album covers. While the band's music has caught on among a growing number
of listeners, the music retains the same soothing qualities that originally
made it so appealing. On Trouble at Jinx Hotel, singer/songwriter
Scott Chernoff offers his best tunes yet. The arrangements are particularly
fascinating and often times complex. Some of the tunes are stark and naked...while
others are padded quite nicely with a varied array of instruments. Integrating
elements from disparate sources such as Low, Azure Ray, John
Cage, and more...Chernoff manages to create music that holds up to many
repeated spins. This music is very healthy for the spirit. Very slow and
methodical...this album is a subtle and hazy experience not to be missed.
Easily the best Molasses album yet. Inspired and beautiful. (Rating: 5+++)
Park
Avenue Music - For Your Home or Office
(CD EP, Clairecords, Soft
experimental electronic pop)
Park Avenue Music is the husband and wife team of Wes Steed
and Jeannette Faith. Their music sounds something like a cross between
Ivy and The Lemon of Pink. If that sounds strange...indeed
it is. For Your Home or Office is a surprisingly weird
spin. Steed and Faith could easily be creating music to please the masses...but
instead they are opting to record and release music that will most definitely
only reach a very small and select group of people (applause!). Thank
God everyone isn't in the game of life for the money. This EP begins
with the super strange sounds of "Cutter"...a really odd tune
that combines super smooth and serene sounds with clicks and pops that sound
like something has gone terribly wrong with your CD player. The vocals on
this one are particularly peculiar. The remainder of the EP isn't any more
familiar or accessible. Good reference points are "The Mellow One"
or "How's Your 401K?" We love it when artists demand our attention...and
these folks truly do. Another great release from a superb l'il duo. Highly
recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Pattern
Is Movement - The (Im)possibility of Longing
(Independently released CD, Progressive pop)
Wonderfully heady and dreamy progressive pop with a distinct difference.
Philadelphia's Pattern Is Movement create music that gives the listener
the feeling of being in a trance or dreaming. Sounding something like a
jazzy progressive 10CC or later period XTC, these guys are
creating music from an entirely different perspective...and 99% of the time...it
works. That is particularly impressive, considering how many risks
these gentlemen take with their music. Far from being safe, easy, and predictable...the
compositions on The (Im)possibility of Longing are complex and peculiar.
That being said, it is strange indeed that much of this disc has a strangely
calming effect on the listener. According to band member Andrew Thiboldeaux,
"We wanted this record to touch a part of the listener that they
didn't know was there all along." Well, in that case...mission
accomplished. The only potential problem that this band may encounter
is that their music is so unfamiliar and strange that most folks will simply
get lost and turn away...which is a sad thing indeed. The most creative
and unusual musical creations almost always get lost or overlooked simply
because most people want to hear things that are generic, safe, and familiar.
Pattern Is Movement is most definitely not generic, safe,
or familiar. The band's music is a confusing wash of complex and imaginative
ideas colliding with one another in one big ball of creativity. Open minded
folks will want to check this out. Narrow minded shallow jerks...are advised
to steer clear. Cool cuts include "Non Servium," "Julius,"
"Albatross," and "Postlude." Truly off-the-wall stuff
that "touches the part" dead on....although we are not certain
exactly what part that is...? (Rating: 5+)
Phosphorescent - The Weight of Flight (CD EP, Warm
Electronic Recordings, Soft pop)
Insightful and slightly fragile introspective...intelligent soft pop. Phosphorescent
is Matthew Houck and whatever musicians he chooses to accompany him
at any given point in time. Houck began in Alabama playing to small audiences
under the name Fillup Shack. Shortly thereafter word began to spread
to a limited degree around the world...prompting him to form a band. Thus,
Phosphorescent was born. The Weight of Flight EP follows the band's
debut album (A Hundred Times or More), which was also released on
the Warm Electronic Recordings label). While Houck's music has been compared
to Bright Eyes, the comparison only holds true to a limited degree.
In actuality, his tunes are more straightforward, accessible, and positive.
Interestingly, with a little tweaking Houck could easily be transformed
into a country music superstar (should he choose such an alternate
career route, of course). His voice is sincere and effective...and his melodies
are both striking and memorable. These six tunes present a young man who
is most surely on an upward climb on the ladder of success... (Rating: 5)
Rhythm
of Black Lines - Human Hand, Animal Band
(CD, Gold Standard Laboratories, Progressive pop/rock)
What would a modern progressive rock band sound like if Pete Shelley
or Howard Devoto was the guiding force behind the music...? The
answer may lie in the music of Rhythm of Black Lines...an intriguing
new band that virtually defies categorization. Most albums can be summed
up in a single spin. Human Hand, Animal Band takes a great many spins
to sink in...but the time is well spent as the music is absorbing and impressively
unique. A wild variety of influences collide in this band's music...which
combine together and flow surprisingly nicely. What is intriguing about
this music is that...while it is obviously entertaining while it is playing...after
the disc ends, it is difficult to remember exactly what went on (a trait
that is strangely reminiscent of the music of the band Lilys). Anything
but easy listening...Human Hand, Animal Band is an imaginative
experiment that works. Excellent in the truest sense and difficult
to describe. (Rating: 5+)
Rollerball - Behind the Barber (CD, Silber,
Experimental/modern jazz)
Freeform spontaneous knockaround sound experiments. Behind the Barber
is the tenth album from Rollerball. The band's penchant for the peculiar
and the unexpected has earned them a solid reputation among fans of underground
free-form jazz. Because of the nature of this band's music, it takes several
spins for the music to sink in. After giving considerable attention to this
disc, we found that for our own tastes the music works best as background
music...played at low volume to create an atmosphere. While the band's music
certainly does not make for easy listening...when played as background music,
it most definitely creates distinct moods. This unusual album features eleven
oddball creations including "Do The Slim Jim," "Autotelic,"
"The Guarantee," and "Fake Tan." (Rating: 4+++)
The Sad Riders - Lay Your Head on the Soft Rock (CD, Doghouse,
Soft pop)
While Chris Wicky's other band (Favez) has more or less transformed
into a disappointingly generic and noisy outfit...he has thankfully begun
a solo project. The Sad Riders is Wicky's outlet for his more personal
and pensive music...which is quite fortunate for his listeners. Virtually
all of the intrinsically rewarding aspects of early Favez recordings remain
intact here. The tunes range from very soft to mid-tempo pop with restrained
arrangements...and feature those heavenly vocals that make Wicky's music
so cool and inviting. The tunes on Lay Your Head on the Soft Rock
display mostly sad, reflective, and vulnerable qualities that are slightly
reminiscent of the criminally overlooked band Varnaline. Songs are
strong throughout this album...but particular standout cuts include "Maybe
Just On Fridays," "The Radio Man," "Ace," and "I'll
See You in the Morning." Excellent. (Rating: 5)
Shampoo Your Rectum (Poem Kind of Thing)
When shower time comes
And there's no one to see
Shampoo your rectum
With power and glee.
There's no time like peasants
Except just like pests.
There's no time whatever,
To patch all the guests.
Dreamboats are not boats and
Empires are not fires.
Rectums is all dirty
Unless they gets shampooed, that is.
So shampoo often,
Shampoo well.
Shampoo 'til
You rot in Hell.
(Not Rated)
Graham Smith - Final Battle (CD, March
\ What Are Records?,
Pop)
Final Battle thankfully marks the return of Graham Smith to
the arena in which he operates best. After initially catching the attention
of an impressive number of folks with early recordings by his band Kleenex
Girl Wonder, Smith began introducing various odd elements into his music...pushing
pop in the background in favor of experimental compositions. This was frustrating
mainly because the folks who loved Smith's music wanted to hear him doing
what he did best...which was to write good pop tunes. Final Battle
is certainly a return to form. The album seems purposely loose with its
low fidelity sound...which suits the tunes perfectly because they are so
strong that they come across crystal clear without unnecessary embellishments.
The songs sound something like a cross between Ray Davies (The
Kinks) and Kurt Heasley (Lilys). While there are strange
familiar threads running through the music...there are just as many puzzling
twists and turns that take the listener off guard. This return-to-form is
a pleasant surprise and is likely to garner Graham a whole new legion of
fans. He's a very smart fellow with enough unique qualities to make him
a truly viable artist for decades to come. (Rating: 5+)
Tangiers - Never Bring You Pleasure (CD, Sonic
Unyon Recording Company, Pop/rock)
Canada's Tangiers is a band with a slightly unusual sound that is
instantly entertaining. While the band's overall approach is similar to
The Strokes...their actual sound is somewhat different. The guys
in Tangiers combine elements from artists like Wire, David Bowie,
and The Pretty Things to create their own unique brand of modern
pop. The tunes on Never Bring You Pleasure are delivered with integrity
and style...and the lead singer has a nice urgent vocal style that really
makes things click. The guitars have a strange sound that is integral to
the band's music...very trebly and full of reverb...quite hollow, loose,
and very cool. This album follows on the heels of the band's warmly received
debut (Hot New Spirits). Songs are truly what make this album such
a great spin. Instead of slamming out generic power chords and tired, familiar
formulas...these guys write and play memorable tunes with decidedly smart
melodies. The general vibe is something like a grand mixture of party bands
and garage rock. Fun, upbeat stuff with a different slant. Most entertaining.
(Rating: 5)
Denison
Witmer \ The River Bends - ...and Flows
Into the Sea (CD, Tooth and
Nail, Pensive soft pop)
...and Flows Into the Sea is a grrrrrrrrrreat album...! Denison
Witmer beefs up his sound a bit this time around by playing with a real
band...and the results are most impressive. Many folks have the mistaken
impression that there are few new classic tunes being recorded these days
because the charts are all flushed out with vapid generic crap. While the
latter is most certainly true...the former most certainly is not.
Denison Witmer is a true modern classic. His has universal appeal...yet
his music is artistically sound and credible. Unlike most underground celebrities...this
young man has a real chance of hitting it big. We just hope that future
success doesn't ruin a good thing because ...and Flows Into the Sea
is an outstanding album chock full of thoughtful lyrics and smart melodies.
These tunes are right up there with Paul Simon and James Taylor's
best material...or better even. Considering the fact that neither
of these men are credible anymore...Witmer seems to have come along at exactly
the right time. The reasons this man stands out are simple. First, he has
incredible focus in terms of both his songwriting and in his vocal delivery.
Second, he has a real presence that transmits. He has a way of creating
music that actually makes the listener feel the things that he is feeling.
This particular ability is very rare in music. Third...he's just really
damn good. This is a wonderfully sincere, original, and genuine album
that is not to be missed. (Rating: 5+++)
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