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March 2003 Reviews by
About
E-mails | The babysue®
Store | General Info | LMNOP®
| Official T-Shirts | Review Policies
March 2003 Reviews by
RATING SYSTEM:
= GODDAMN!!!
= EXCELLENT
= VERY GOOD
= GOOD
= FAIR
= SHITTY
March 2003 Comment
Piece:
The Instant Creation of The Zilchicratic Party!
Political parties repulse us so much that we have decided to combat the pathetic state of American politics by creating our own party. Thus, the sudden and instant creation of...the Zilchicratic Party. The Democan and Republicratic parties have one thing in common. Both parties are intent on doing lots and lots of things that amount to nothing. The mission of the Zilchicratic Party is much more honest and reliable. Our mission is to do nothing about anything. As a result, our party will be MUCH MORE EFFECTIVE than either of the parties currently in power. Not only that, but our party will also be superior in every way imaginable to the other parties. Our leaders will all be INVISIBLE and will never make ANY promises to do anything...EVER. As a result, no campaign promises will ever be BROKEN. Our leaders will never let anyone DOWN. And they will never be involved in SCANDALS. We are proud...proud to now be a part of the American political process...a process filled to the brim with LIES and DECEPTION. God Bless the goddamn U.S.A....the country that has sunken to the lowest of lows...by becoming totally CRUMMY, ROTTEN, and WORTHLESS. So join the goddamn Zilchicratic Party NOW...before it DISSOLVES! Before it dissolves like PURTY PINK SUGAR on the greasy back of a great big ol' goddamn SLUG! Haha! We are not the only assholes on the planet...you are an asshole TOO! And so is your goddamn FAMILY! Yaaaaay! It feels GREAT knowing that we've all sunken into a depressing nation of pathetic two-bit LOSERS. Now get on that goddamn PONY and ride, partner! Ride right into the goddamn thongs of HELL! 2003 truly is the most BORING GODDAMN YEAR EVER!!! And we LOVE it! We LOVE being bored to goddamn TEARS! Yes indeedy!!! While the rest of the WORLD goes to HELL in a HAND BASKET...we'll still be SLAMMING PLASTIC DISCS into our CRUMMY little CD player and ROCKIN' AROUND THE GODDAMN HOUSE...avoiding anyone and everyone until the day we DIE! Trust us...these days it is BETTER to have your damn HEAD in the SAND. When things are THIS bad...who WANTS to know what's going on in the world...? La la la la la la la...we don't GIVE A DAMN about ANYTHING or ANYONE. No, yes we really actually DO!!! Don't we...or DOES we...???!!??? The HELL if we knows!!! Yeeeeeeeee-HAAAWWWW!!!
Aarktica - Pure Tone Audiometry (CD, Silber,
Obtuse/ambient/stream of consciousness)
Raleigh's Silber label is a like a fine jewel that one finds at the bottom
of the ocean. This small, eclectic label continues to release extraordinarily
high quality releases that are unique, experimental, and thoroughly entertaining.
Aarktica is Jon DeRosa. DeRosa's music is difficult to categorize.
The man delves into wide variety of styles and sounds to create his own
unique mindspace. Pure Tone Audiometry contains soft pop, ambient,
electronic drone, and more. Beginning with the soft, soothing, and eerie
sounds of "Out To Sea" and "The Mimicry All Women Use"...DeRosa
then goes on to explore less obvious territory. The electronics on this
album are a far cry from the generic sounds created by most modern electronic
artists. DeRosa uses sounds to evoke moods...and the results are most effective.
The music is sometimes unusual...sometimes strangely odd...and sometimes
strikingly beautiful. A well-crafted and ultimately satisfying trip into
one man's world of imagination. Totally hypnotic. (Rating: 5++)
Absinthe Blind - Rings (CD, Mud / Parasol,
Progressive pop)
Most bands can be easily summed up after a single listen to their latest
album. Urbana-Champaign's Absinthe Blind is not so easily categorized
or described. Actually and in fact, Rings more closely resembles
a detailed oil painting than a pop album. The songs are carefully crafted
and the recording techniques meticulously incorporated. The result is a
collection of mind-absorbing tunes produced to perfection. The band members
appropriately chose producers Matt Talbott and Keith Cleversley
to help them realize their dreams on this album. (Talbott has played in
the bands Hum and Centaur and Cleversley has produced monumental
recordings by Spiritualized, Flaming Lips, Mercury Rev,
and others). It is difficult to determine exactly who this band sounds like...but
in our minds, the overall sound is a combination of modern girl/boy indie
pop with slight reverberations of Wire and Pink Floyd thrown
into the mix. The tunes on Rings have a familiar sound that is offset
by the fact that...they sound strangely unfamiliar. One thing is
for certain. This album gets better with repeated spins. Tunes such as "The
Break (It's Been There All This Time)," "The Dreamers Song,"
and "Ease the Curtains Down" quietly entered our subconscious
and by the tenth listen had taken up permanent residence in our brains.
Wonderfully different and uniquely creative...Rings is a solid and
direct HIT. (Rating: 5++)
Mark
Bacino - The Million Dollar Milkshake
(CD, Parasol, Pop)
Non stop classic pop. This is the second full-length release from Mark
Bacino. This young gentleman seems influenced by popsters from the 1960s
right on through to the present. His uplifting and intelligently written
tunes possess an optimistic quality that is refreshing and genuine. The
arrangements are particularly effective. A wide variety of instruments are
used to add interest to the tunes, including trumpet, flugel horn, cello,
electric piano, flute, pedal steel guitar, toy piano, and more. Bacino wrote
all twelve tunes himself. This guy seems to be doing everything right. His
vocals are excellent...recalling everyone from David Cassidy to Tom
Evans. This album is a pure feelgood experience. Upbeat pop nuggets
include "Want You Around," "Take Your Time," "All
I Want," and "Walking on Air." Exceptionally fun stuff. You
can expect even bigger and better things from this rising star in the near
future. (Rating: 4+++)
The
BellRays - Raw Collection (CD, Uppercut, Rock/soul/pop)
The BellRays are one hell of a quartet. Unlike most super hip bands...they
are truly deserving of all the praise they receive in the press. If you've
heard the band then you already know the score. If you haven't heard them
yet, The BellRays can best be described as power soul. The band plays hard
rock with one unique difference. Vocalist Lisa Kekaula is the Tina
Turner of underground rock in the United States. This charged up lady
can belt out tunes like nobody's business. She's got the voice...she's got
a great sassy look...and she has a voice that'll literally knock you out
of your seat. Raw Collection is exactly that. The album collects
previous vinyl 7" releases, compilation tracks, and other various choice
nuggets by the band...all slapped together on one goddamn rockin' little
motherf*ckin' CD. The sound quality varies from track to track (which is
to be expected)...but that detracts little from fifteen cuts that reaffirm
this band's position in the undercurrents of American rock music. Includes
"You're Sorry Now," "Half A Mind," "Suicide Baby,"
"The Same Way," and much, much more. Killer stuff. (Rating: 5+)
birddog - Songs From Willipa Bay (CD, Karma
/ Happy Happy Birthday To Me, Pop)
birddog is led by Bill Santen. Santen began releasing music
as birddog in 1995. His music is difficult to describe. Some of the tunes
on Songs From Willipa Bay have familiar qualities...while at other
times we are left baffled and confused. One thing is obvious. This man is
a songwriter of the highest caliber. His tunes are thoughtful, meaningful,
and ultimately incredibly satisfying. Best of all, Santen doesn't seem to
be trying to impress anyone. His lyrics are puzzling, personal, and effective.
This is a strangely hypnotic album that will stand the test of time. The
vocals are exceptional throughout. Top notch tunes like "$100 Wedding,"
"Red Red Wine," "Sycamore" and "Willipa Bay"
are about as good as pop music gets. This band is instantly one of our top
favorites. Highly recommended. (Rating: 5+++)
Box-O-Car - In the Future... (CD EP, Modern Record Company,
Rock/pop)
Hard pop with heavy British influences. This Chicago quintet's music harkens
back to the days when hooks were king and melodies meant everything. The
tunes offered on this seven song EP are uplifting and energetic...and the
band plays with definite conviction. Box-O-Car would make it difficult
indeed for any pop fan to sit still while their music is playing. The band
consists of Skid Marks (vocals, guitar), Ken Sluiter (guitar,
vocals, sounds), Dan Polonsky (bass), Cory Hance (guitar,
vocals), and Randy Payne (drums). This band's sound is reminiscent
of Material Issue and The Chainsaw Kittens, yet incorporates
energy from the British invasion of the 1960s. In the Future... is
chock full of smart pop played just the way we like to hear it. Top notch
kickers like "I Wanna Be a Girl," "Under Your Command,"
and "The True Wheel" make this EP a real standout... (Rating:
5+)
Boobie
Browne and the Onions - Birth of the Chickenpick
(Independently released CD, Guitar instrumentals)
Wonderfully entertaining guitar instrumentals. True to the claim of the
press release that accompanied this CD, Canada's Boobie Browne "is
not your typical instrumental guitarist." As the title of the album
suggests, Mr. Browne finger plucks his electric guitar...making his guitar
sound very much indeed like a chicken at times. Influenced by artists such
as Danny Gatton, Chet Atkins, Albert Collins, Jeff
Beck, and Les Paul, Mr. Browne proves that he can indeed compete
with the best. Backed by the tight, funky rhythm section of Keith Power
(bass) and Scott MacCulloch (drums), Boobie serves up some mighty
tasty guitar pickin'. You aren't likely to find this limited edition release
through familiar channels, so your best bet is to visit the web site (link
above). Our top picks are "Two Eggs Any Style" and "Pink
Chicken." Totally cool stuff. (Rating: 5)
Caustic Resin - Keep on Truckin (CD, Up,
Rock)
Caustic Resin...getting stranger by the year. While a lot of bands
claim to play "acid drenched rock"...this band is the REAL THING.
What would J Mascis and Captain Beefheart sound like if they
both got really drunk and had a baby? Caustic Resin might just be what that
little bastard would sound like. This band's music sounds strange. Really
strange. But they don't sound like they are trying to sound strange...that's
just the way they their music is. As such, Keep on Truckin is
an acquired taste. You don't "get it" on the first spin. In fact,
most folks won't even get it on the tenth or twentieth spin. Fortunately
we get what these guys are about. There's some cool depth to these tunes
although it doesn't immediately jump out and grab you. Caustic Resin is
Brett Netson (guitar, vocals), Mike Johnson (bass, guitar),
and Pat Perkins (drums). These three guys create music that sounds
highly drug-influenced. That isn't always super cool...but in this case...it
IS. Wild blurry psychedelic rockers like "People Fall Down" and
"Wizard of the Upper Snake River" are not only weird as hell...they're
also mighty satisfying in the best kinda way. Caustic Resin is a band that
influences other bands to create. Dreamy, wild stuff. Far out. Far out...and
KILLER. (Rating: 5+)
doubleDrive - Blue in the Face (CD, Roadrunner,
Rock)
doubleDrive is one of the best hard rock bands to come out of Atlanta.
Their thick and heavy sound is counterbalanced by excellent melodies and
intelligent arrangements. The quartet consists of Donnie Hamby (vocals),
Troy McLawhorn (guitar), Mike Froedge (drums), and Josh
Sattler (bass). doubleDrive tunes are propulsive and vibrant. Froedge
and Sattler provide a solid foundation for Lawhorn's intriguing guitar lines.
Hamby's macho vocals blend perfectly with the instruments to create a powerful
force that has both progressive and metallic nuances. The album kicks off
with the mental wave of "11:59" which is a perfect blend of pop
and heavy metal arena rock. "Imprint" is likely to be the most
popular cut with its more accessible overall sound. For our money, the seventh
track (curiously titled "Track Number 7") is the real winner.
This cut features big thick guitar riffs and wonderful vocal harmonies that
glide through the mix. These guys have the potential to hit it big. They
are aggressive and rock really hard...yet their music will still appeal
to fans of classic rock and roll. (Rating: 5)
The Eyesores - Bent at the Waist (CD, Handsome,
Offbeat pop)
A band that definitely doesn't sound like all the rest. There aren't that
many bands on the planet whose songs are written around the sound of accordion...but
there are even less with a sound as virtually undefinable as the folks in
The Eyesores. The tunes on Bent at the Waist have a loose...almost
drunken quality...while still retaining the basic identifiable elements
of pop music. At times the melodies seem to slip off the side of the road...only
to swerve back dead center with no advance notice. This band's music incorporates
everything from pop to country to circus to gypsy to experimental...utilizing
bass, drums, guitars, violin, upright bass, and keyboards. This isn't easy
music because it sounds foreign in many ways. Songs like "Bent at the
Waist," "Thousand Yard Stare," "Ice is for Adults,"
and "Chupacabra" are peculiar and slightly obtuse...yet strangely
appealing. With a bit more focus...these folks will be major contenders
in the years ahead. Excellent cover art (!). (Rating: 4+++)
Fanny
- First Time in a Long Time (Four CD Box Set, Rhino Handmade/Reprise,
Pop)
Finally. After decades without even a single CD reissue of Fanny
material...Rhino grabs the bull by the horns and releases EVERYTHING that
the band recorded for Reprise. What a RELIEF. Fanny never deserved the attention
they so obviously deserved. Although they were one of the most pivotal and
incredible all girl bands...for the most part they were ignored. The basic
concept of the band was, at the time, truly original. Four girls who could
write, play, and sing like all get out. At least during the course of the
first three Fanny albums, there were no gimmicks...no weird outfits...no
outrageous hair...nothing other than four ladies who just happened to be
extraordinarily talented. They had a couple of minor hits...but the band
finally broke up without much fanfare. What we cannot figure out is why
these ladies are rarely mentioned when the subject of "women in rock
music" comes up. (People always seem to mention Suzi Quatro
and The Runaways...but neglect to mention Fanny??? C'mon!) Sheesh...they
were one of the very FIRST and very BEST female bands EVER. In any event...First
Time in a Long Time finally unleashes everything that the band recorded
for the Reprise label. It's a standing testament to these girls' credibility.
This set includes everything from Fanny, Charity Ball, Fanny
Hill (our favorite), and Mother's Pride...plus throws in a multitude
of other exotic tidbits to thrill and delight the diehard fan. (We are
particularly thrilled over the demo version of "Long Road Home"
recorded in London...it is totally KILLER!!!) Also included is a wonderfully
informative booklet with revealing interviews with all four members. What
is most unfortunate about this release is that it carries a hefty price
tag. At $80, this wonderful box set isn't likely to make its way into many
households...and that is somewhat of a tragedy...because at this point in
time, these girls deserve some MAJOR credit. Perhaps someone will come along
and release a "best of" disc...making it possible that Fanny could
finally become a household word. But probably not. Some of the best bands
seem doomed to permanent obscurity. Fanny was one of the best. For those
who are willing to chuck out the money, this set offers a fantastic look
back at one of the tightest girl groups EVER. (Rating: 5+++)
The
Few - The Few (CD, PSB,
Rock/pop)
Clear, honest, unpretentious music. The Few call Los Angeles their
home...but had the right idea by traveling to Athens to record their first
album with Andy Lemaster (who has recorded some of the band's favorite
albums). This trio seems to be doing everything right. The CD cover art
has a nice personal feel and contains no photos of the band. And instead
of a press release, these folks created a short one-page cartoon briefly
explaining how their first album came to be. The Few is Jack Burnside
(vocals, guitar), Jamie Swick (bass), and Pauline Mu (drums,
vocals). The trio writes and records thoughtful, melodic guitar pop with
intelligent lyrics. What appeals to us most about this music is the direct
and uncluttered nature of the recordings. The Few write bright, moving tunes.
As a result, they don't need unnecessary studio gloss and busy arrangements
to cloud the picture. This band is off to a wonderful start. Tunes like
"Blue Eyes," "Worth," and "Let Me Down" are
pure and necessary. (Rating: 4+++)
Friends of Dean Martinez - On the Shore (Double CD, Narnack,
Progressive/instrumental/eclectic)
The most adventurous release yet from Friends of Dean Martinez. This
progressive instrumental group of artists began in 1994, originally called
Friends of Dean Martin. Since that time the band has released several
albums on several different labels...and virtually all have met with critical
acclaim. With the release of On the Shore...the band bites off an
even bigger chunk than normal. This whopping double CD set is brimming with
the cerebral progressive instrumentals that the band is known for. Beginning
with the almost grunge-like "Overload," the band sets the scene
for some mighty and mind expanding entertainment of the highest caliber.
The group's sweeping and slightly trippy music has never sounded better.
Echo drenched guitars and heady keyboards make tunes like "Through
the Whine," "Tennessee Waltz," "Time's Not Your Friend,"
and "Cahuenga" reverberate in the mind of the listener. The band's
music is like a modern type of mood music. Spinning On the Shore
is similar to taking a mental trip through the desert and beyond. If you
don't like the hassles of flying, this music will give you the opportunity
to do so within the confines of your very own cozy home. Wonderfully refreshing
and inventive, this album is another direct hit for the band. (Rating: 5+++)
Gingersol - The Train Wreck Is Behind You (CD, Rubric,
Pop)
This is a reissue of the very well received...and originally independently
released...album by Gingersol. Rubric picked a real winner this time.
The Train Wreck Is Behind You is an ultimately satisfying album.
When Gingersol began in 1995, it was basically the one man project created
by Steve Tagliere. In 1999 Seth Rothschild joined, making
the band a duo. Both write excellent tunes...and their voices blend together
like magic. The tunes on this album are mid-tempo pop with magnetic melodies
and chock full of addictive hooks. With songs this good...these guys are
sure to be a major favorite among fans of underground pop. Fifteen great
tunes here. Our choice picks are "Who Cares," "King Sized
Doubt," "You Fall Off," and "Amnesia." Excellent
stuff that resounds in the mind. (Rating: 5+)
Grand
National - Kingsize (CD EP, Atom
Smash, Pop)
Smart, thick, melodic, hooky pop. Buffalo, NY's Grand National seem
poised and ready to strike for the big time. Rather than playing indie pop,
these guys are making music aimed at the masses. That could be either a
major criticism or a nifty compliment. In the case of Grand National it
is the latter. The band's charged up pop has mass appeal but that is only
because the songs are so damn catchy and upbeat. The band's big glossy sound
is provided courtesy of mega-producer Dave Trumfio (who has worked
with mind expanding bands like Wilco and The Anniversary).
We can hear traces of The Nazz and Material Issue in this
band's music. It is difficult to judge a group based on a mere five songs...but
we'd say these folks are off to a excellent start... (Rating: 4+++)
Hitch - Monolith (CD, Divot,
Hard rock)
Smart, skewed, loud, hard, melodic rock. Belgium's Hitch have a sound
and style all their own as is evidenced by this, their debut American release.
Hitch tunes deliver a mighty punch...but this trio never regresses into
making noise for the pure sake of making noise. These guys are too smart
for that. The band consists of Mich Decruyenaere (vocals, guitar),
Paul Lamont (bass), and Olivier Wychuyse (drums, vocals).
Listening to Monolith, it is difficult to believe that only three
men are creating this wall of sound. The band's playing is forceful and
focused...and extraordinarily tight. Hitch tunes are varied and intense
enough to please fans of punk, heavy metal, alternative rock, and pop. Mindbreaking
tunes such as "Cause and Effect," "Tongues," and "Building
vs. Structures" make this album a standout in the world of hard rock.
Tough, killer material. (Rating: 5)
Guitar
Wolf - UFO Romantics (CD, Narnack, Rock)
By the time they get to their fourth or fifth album, most bands become generic
putty and lose their initial spark...but this isn't always the case.
Though they've been around since 1993...and this is their eighth full-length
album...Japan's Guitar Wolf still possess a raw urgency that is refreshing
and real. These three gentlemen play with reckless abandon...managing to
combine wonderfully sloppy playing with intense focus and style. We find
it very interesting that decades ago Japanese bands seemed to be merely
imitating American bands...while nowadays many of them have surpassed the
very bands they were originally trying to emulate (!). UFO Romantics
is rough, loud, crazed, and manic. The band thrashes out thirteen little
ditties that ought to please even the most jaded punk fans. Our favorites
are "Fire Ball Red," "Taxi Driver," "Nagasaki Jet,"
and "Alcohol Ace." Cool, tough, and absolutely CRAZY. (Rating:
5+)
Happy
Ashtray - Big Apple (CD, Kitchen Sink, Pop)
Subtle melodic underground pop. John Swamy is Happy Ashtray.
Big Apple is a great album featuring Swamy's unique and intelligent
slant on life. The tunes are clean from unnecessary clutter and feature
wonderfully sincere melodies. Swamy's deep vocals are extraordinarily effective.
While the compositions on this album possess slightly familiar qualities...we
are hard pressed to come up with any obvious influences. The only person
whose music is somewhat similar is longtime recording guru R. Stevie
Moore...but Swamy's tunes are much more accessible. Wonderfully fulfilling
songs like "4 Times Daily," "From the Inside" (our favorite),
"Twinkle," and "Where Are You?" showcase a fresh new
artist with an uncanny knack for writing timeless pop tunes. Recommended.
Excellent. (Rating: 5)
Eric Idle
- Eric Idle Presents The Rutland
Isles (CD, iMusic /
Artist Direct / BMG, Comedy/documentary)
Chipper British comedian Eric Idle returns with a brilliant album.
Idle has been a mainstay of comedy around the world since his early days
as a member of Monty Python's Flying Circus. The quick-paced humor
of The Rutland Isles is reminiscent of Lily Tomlin's Modern
Humor or even National Lampoon's Radio Dinner...while
retaining many comedic elements listeners will remember from Monty Python.
The basic premise is that Eric is a tour guide (Nigel Spasm) taking
listeners on a tour of the legendary (and fictional) Rutland Isles. The
challenging wordplay throughout the album is fantastic and sure to churn
many a chuckle. Our favorite nuggets are "Mugger's Day," a hilarious
commercial entitled "Pre-Chewed Food," the "Gay Animal Song,"
and "Fishing for Compliments." One of the best comedy albums we
have heard in years, The Rutland Isles cements Idle's position as
one of the reigning kings of absurdist comedy. (Rating: 5++)
Johnny
Society - Life Behind the 21st Century Wall
(CD, Messenger, Pop/rock)
Johnny Society continues to be one of the best kept secrets in the
world...although the band's name is slowly becoming more well known in larger
musical circles. Life Behind the 21st Century Wall is possibly the
band's most accessible release yet. While still retaining the basic elements
from the band's first three albums...the album resonates with more polish
and distinct precision. Main songwriter Kenny Siegel's vocals sound
as fantastic as ever (his voice still reminds us of Roy Wood). Siegel
has the uncanny ability to write classic tunes that have as much in common
with 1960s pop as they have in common with twenty-first century rock. The
band also features Brian Geltner (drums, backing vocals), Gwen
Snyder (bass, backing vocals, piano), and Brion Snyder (clavinet,
piano, backing vocals). Possibly due to the fact that all band members play
multiple instruments, these compositions feature thick and sometimes intense
arrangements. But rather than sounding overproduced...these cuts seem to
have been cultivated using just the right amount of studio imagination and
polish. Just as with the band's prior albums, there isn't a bad apple in
the bunch...but standout tracks include "Trust," "Dirty Water"
(this one is really exceptional), "Anyway," "Love,"
and "Everybody Sing Along." Destined to be one of the best releases
of 2003. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED. (Rating: 6)
Eleni
Mandell - Country for True Lovers (CD,
Zedtone, Country/folk/pop)
It would be difficult to say that Country for True Lovers is Eleni
Mandell's best album...because everything she has yet to record has
been spectacular. So...rather than say this is her best...we can safely
declare that this is our all-time favorite up until now. For this collection
of tunes, Mandell varies slightly from her normal course...writing and recording
cool, smooth country-flavored pop tunes that go down as easy as blackberry
pie on a Sunday afternoon. Possibly her most accessible album yet, Country
for True Lovers focuses on Mandell's uncanny ability to write classic
melodies...and to deliver them with ultimately hypnotic class and style.
This young lady is as captivating playing alone with a guitar as she is
fronting a full band. Every tune here is a keeper, but particular standout
cuts include "Another Lonely Heart," "Tell Me Twice,"
"Don't Touch Me," and "Blue Ribbon Eyes." As usual,
her voice is REMARKABLE. We've said it before and we'll say it again. Eleni
Mandell is one of the most gifted singer/songwriters of our time. HIGHLY
RECOMMENDED. (Rating: 6)
Michael - The Day After My Confidence (Independently released CD,
Pop/rock)
Slow and steady...wins the race...? Begun in 1993, Athens' Michael
(a band, not an individual...) released their first album (You Must Be
This Tall) years later in 1999. Afterwards, the band had a few stops
and starts before finally recording this, the follow-up. The band originally
began recording this album in their home studio...but later opted to record
at Sony/Tree Studios in Nashville. The extra time and extra steps seem to
have been worth the effort, as The Day After My Confidence features
a big, thick sound and some spellbinding music. The first thing that struck
us about this album was the guitar work. Complex, thick, heady guitars weave
in and out of the mix...combining with uncommon rhythms and wonderful throbbing
bass lines to create a sound that is strangely calming and beautiful. The
vocals are smooth and low in the mix...allowing the instruments to take
a front seat in many cases. These four gentlemen have a knack for combining
music that bites with cerebral, calming elements. The result? Nine hypnotic
tunes that grab you by the balls and won't let go. Songs like "Still
Life," "Rear Window," "Finish Line," and "Letter
to Self" are exceptional and ultimately extraordinarily satisfying.
Intelligent and intense. Recommended. (Rating: 5)
Momus - Oskar Tennis Champion (CD, Darla, Pop)
Underground recording artist Momus goes all over the place...with
his music and with the place that he calls home. Originally born in Scotland,
Momus eventually made his way to the United States...only to become disenchanted
with the country. He currently calls Tokyo his home, which is where Oskar
Tennis Champion was recorded. Momus' entire career seems to evolve around
doing things his own unique way. His music doesn't follow the path of others,
nor do his career moves. While this album is almost certain to please Momus
fans...it isn't likely to make its way into the Billboard charts anytime
soon. Momus tunes are experimental pop laced with tricky electronics and
melodies that are strangely haunting. These compositions are peculiar and
subtle. They slowly invade the subconscious of the listener only after they
have been spun several times. Listeners are likely to spend countless hours
attempting to determine the meaning of lyrics in tunes like "Scottish
Lips" and "Electrosexual Sewing Machine." Slightly spooky
and ultimately tempting, this music is unlike anything else out there. (Rating:
4+++)
Moodroom - Hung Up On Breathing (CD, Fowl, Rock/pop)
Combining 1990s alternative rock sounds with synthesizers and vocals reminiscent
of 1980s new wave, Washington, D.C.'s Moodroom promotes a dense and
thick sound while retaining a definite melodic sense. Something like an
industrial rock version of Missing Persons. The lead track ("Loving")
is the best cut and sounds like a possible single. This band has some good
songs...but the album overall seems uneven. Moodroom should appeal to fans
of Garbage and No Doubt. (Rating: 3++)
Pilot
to Gunner - Games at High Speeds (CD,
Arena Rock Recording Co.,
Rock/pop)
Pilot to Gunner's sound is reminiscent of the first couple of XTC
albums (before XTC softened their sound). The band's loud, angular, jagged,
loud rock is based around genuinely pleasing melodies. At times, we can
also hear traces of early Gang of Four in the band's music...particularly
in the guitar sounds. Pilot to Gunner play with an intensity that pushes
their tunes to another level. The band has already garnered the positive
attention of a great many writers around the globe...and for good reason.
Games at High Speeds is a wild roller coaster ride through the world
of modern hard pop. The band's tunes are smart, inventive, and full of strange
hooks. By mixing slightly discordant sounds with driving melodies, these
guys have come up with an overall sound that is intoxicating and inventive.
Our top picks are "Every Minute is a Movie," "Zero Return,"
and "Band Finale." (Rating: 5)
Re:Collaboration - Transcollaboration (CD, Uncle
Buzz, Ambient/atmospheric)
This is the five-year transatlantic collaboration between David Cooper
Orton and James H. Sidlo. Orton plays and/or handles e-bowed
and electric guitars, loops, software manipulation, and drum pattern programming
while Sidlo plays and/or handles guitars, standard and fretless bass, loops,
and atmospherics. As you might guess from the instruments and programs used,
this is an experimental project consisting mostly of electronic manipulation
and sound effects. As such, the two players are treading territory originally
chartered by Brian Eno and Robert Fripp...in that the stringed
instruments are manipulated in unusual ways. The first half of this disc
flows along in with a meditative sort of flow. In the second half, the duo
introduces rhythms. For our money, the tracks without percussion work best.
Prime cuts: "Thing2," "Thing3," "Thing4,"
"Time To Spare," "Never Enough Part One." (Rating: 4++)
6 Minute Mile - The Race for Second (CD, Sonic
Boom Recordings, Pop/rock)
Hard pop that recalls XTC's Drums and Wires. Seattle's 6
Minute Mile provides impressive material on their debut album. The band
treads on that fine line that divides power pop from hard rock. Their music
is based upon interesting chord changes and meaty power chords...but the
vocal melodies are what make the band's music so appealing. 6 Minute Mile
consists of Jason Hughes (guitar, vocals), Chuck Connell (bass,
vocals), and Jeff Roeser (drums). Lead guitars are (thankfully) noticeably
absent from the band's sound...allowing them to concentrate on their intent
song structures. The band's overall aim is to rock hard while providing
plenty of memorable melodic hooks. Cool rockers include "Not So Strong,"
"Fire on the Moon," "Pilot," and "Bleeding."
(Rating: 4++++)
Silent
Kids - Tomorrow Waits (CD, Two Sheds Music, Pop)
Atlanta, Georgia has some goods bands...but it takes a bit of searching
to find them. Indie popsters Silent Kids are a genuine find. Their
music doesn't fit in with what one normally associates with Atlanta. In
fact, the quartet's music has a great deal more in common with Athens bands
(there is a great cultural difference between the two cities...Athens
= GOOD...Atlanta = BAD...). Tomorrow Waits is a fine and fulfilling
album featuring lo-fi pop compositions that the band recorded in their own
analog 8-track studio. This album was originally an independent disc released
2002. Interest in the album prompted the provocative Two Sheds label to
reissue the album. Eleven cool cuts here including "Drift Into the
Summer," "Oh I," "Perfect Office Street" (our favorite),
and "I Knew That We Would End Up Here." Nice melodies and a cool
groove thoughout. (Rating: 4+++)
Solace
- 13 (CD, MeteorCity,
Rock)
These guys have been at it for some time now. They began as Godspeed
(on the Atlantic label) but later changed their name to Solace in
1997. The band's heavy duty belt-it-out approach is reminiscent of Deep
Purple, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath. Make no mistake,
however, these guys are not retroactive. Their music is relevant and very
current. The band consists of Tommy Southard (guitar), Jason
(vocals), Rob Hultz (bass), and John Proveaux (drums). While
the tunes on 13 most accurately fit within the boundaries of stoner
rock, the guys in Solace are actually much more aggressive than your average
marijuana plodders. Many of the tunes on this album would be just as likely
to please leather punksters as they would the pothead crowd. These guys'
strengths lie in mindblowing guitars, a vocalist who rivals Ozzy Osbourne
on speed, and a rhythm section that throbs and grinds like your Aunt Sue-Ellen
on poppers. Their 1970s influences heavily intact, these guys continue in
the grandest of traditions... Top picks: "King Alcohol," "Once
Around the Sun (Deep Through Time)," "Forever My Queen,"
"With Time." (Rating: 4+++)
Sorry
About Dresden - Let It Rest (CD, Saddle Creek, Pop/rock)
Sorry About Dresden seems to be a very well kept secret. Still toiling
in relative obscurity, the band continues to chalk up points with reviewers
and fans of the underground. Just as is the case with Lilys, the
reason this band hasn't become more popular is probably because their music
is over the heads of most folks. Sorry About Dresden tunes are complicated
matters. They don't just start, plod along, and then end with a familiar
thud. The band's music churns in twisted and unexpected ways. The guitars
make unexpected turns, the rhythms change and mutate, and the vocals go
all over the place. The melodic twists are enough to drive just about anyone
off the road. If the dedicated listener can get past these obstacles...that
individual will be rewarded royally. Although this music requires effort
on the part of the listener, it is well worth the expenditure of energy.
Folks will have a hell of a time trying to figure out who these folks sound
like. Let It Rest presents a wealth of gems including "Beds
and Lawns," "Frozen in Mid-Gesture," "Candid Camera,"
and "Relax, It's Tuesday." More great stuff from one of our favorite
up-and-coming bands... (Rating: 5+)
SubArachnoid
Space - Also Rising (CD, Strange Attractors, Space instrumental/progressive)
There's nothing as soothin' as a good ol' drug induced psychedelic drone
now and then...and that's when SubArachnoid Space come in mighty
handy. So...as we plunked Also Rising (the band's eighth album) into
our trusty CD player and turned the volume way up handy dandy...we slid
right on down into that hallucinogenic kinda place that we like to call
our office...and got kinda goofy as all Hell. Sheesh, what kinda cowpoke
can't enjoy a tasty tune like "The Harsh Facts of Life" anyway?
The more we listened the more we began to drink...and the more we drank
the better the music was soundin'. Sheeyut, by the time "Angel Food"
hit our subconscious we began to think we was on the goddamn MOON pickin'
at our panties and crawlin' underneath some purty blue GRANITE ROCKS. Strange
how music does that to a feller now, ain't it? Of all them crazy damn psychedelic
progressive rock bands out thar...SubArachnoid Space is easily one of our
damn favorites. Why? Hell, ain't no WAY we can answer that. It's just 'cause...'cause
we LIKES 'em, dammit tuh HELL! Hey now...whar's that damn REPLAY button
at anyhow? Our balls is just ITCHIN' for MORE. (Rating: 5)
The Tossers - Purgatory (CD, Thick,
Celtic punk)
Who would've thought years ago when The Pogues hit the scene that
they would inspire hundreds and hundreds of bands. Even more importantly,
who would've thought they would have created an entirely new genre..."celtic
punk"...? Like it, hate it, leave it, or not...the genre is alive and
well and The Tossers are right at the head of the pack. Actually
and in fact, this band's music seems more steeped in tradition than your
average celtic punk band. That is to say, the songs on Purgatory
are more celtic than punk...and that's just fine with us. This is the band's
fourth album...jammed up with sixteen credible compositions. The band's
attitude and energy are infectious... and hey, the tunes ain't bad neither
(!). We are particularly impressed with the lead vocalist...this guy's GOOD.
Tracks include "With the North Wind," "Nantucket Girls Song,"
"The Squall," and "Time to Go." (Rating: 4+++)
The
Twin Atlas - Bring Along the Weather
(CD, Tappersize, Pop)
A wonderfully entertaining home recorded project. The Twin Atlas
is the duo of Sean Byrne and Luke Zaleski. Byrne and Zaleski
were formerly in the bands Lenola, Mazarin, and Matt Pond
PA. The pair made the right choice to venture out on their own. Bring
Along the Weather is an exceptional album. These two fellows churn out
one memorable tune after another...and their songs feature some absolutely
striking vocal harmonies. Bryne writes dreamy, haunting melodies with effective
lyrics. His material is light years beyond most of what is currently being
released by major labels. His pop tunes have a slight folk influence...and
are as smooth as silk on the ears. Our favorites on this album are "Sun
Touches Down," "The Golden Seas," "Static to Crystal,"
and "Nylon FP." This is what home recorded pop ought to
sound like. Beautiful stuff. (Rating: 5)
Chris
Whitley - Hotel Vast Horizon (CD, Messenger, Pop/rock)
Guitarist Chris Whitley returns with yet another stunning album.
Hotel Vast Horizon is somewhat of a departure from Whitley's last
couple of studio albums. Focusing on acoustic instruments, Whitley strips
his sound down to the bare essentials. While there's nothing like hearing
this man play electric guitar...the change of pace is refreshing and focuses
on the softer and more gentle side of Whitley's material. If you've never
heard Chris before...his material lies somewhere in between J Mascis
and Idaho (two of our favorites). But make no mistake...this man
has his own sound and follows his own muse. His husky voice evokes moods
and emotions in the same way that his guitar playing does. Backing Whitley
on this album are Matthias Macht (drums) and Heiko Schramm
(bass). In our opinion, Horizon is Whitley's strongest release yet...emphasizing
the more human elements of the artist at work. Indispensable tunes include
"New Lost World," "Assassin Song," and "Insurrection
at Newtown." Ten straight shooters that all hit the bull's eye dead
on. (Rating: 5+++)
Xiu
Xiu - A Promise (CD, 5RC, Obtuse)
The more we hear Xiu Xiu...the more impressed we are. There are few
bands with such an obtuse and awkward style that push as hard as these guys.
They're fighting an uphill battle...but they seem to be winning (at least
in terms of artistic success). There are plenty of strange bands on the
planet...but few are as genuinely and unusually strange as this. What does
this music sound like...? Imagine mixing the first Mercury Rev album
with ten hits of acid...throw in a hint of early Daniel Johnston...and
blend the mixture with a heavy dose of modern classical music a la John
Cage... Then...and only then...will you have at least a slight idea
of what this band sounds like. A Promise is easily one of the most
unique albums we have heard in some time. Listeners will definitely not
find themselves singing along and proclaiming, "Hey...that's catchy!"
This music is meant for that small yet appreciative audience that wants
to be challenged mentally and physically. There are few familiar elements
to grasp onto. By pushing the limits of what constitutes an album...Xiu
Xiu have succeeded in creating magical and surreal pieces that travel far
beyond...beyond the sun...beyond the moon...beyond the sky... Cool stuff
for folks who can handle it. Can you...Xiu Xiu...??? (Rating: 5+++)
Zwan
- Mary Star of the Sea (CD & DVD set, Reprise,
Rock/pop)
Zwan is Jimmy Chamberlin, Billy Corgan, Paz Lenchantin,
David Pajo, and Matt Sweeney. As such, the band has an instant
built-in fan base. For those who were disappointed with the last few Smashing
Pumpkins albums (that includes us), Mary Star of the Sea finds
Corgan once again standing in good form. The album features loud rockers
and mid-tempo pop...as well as some softer moments. While Zwan never reaches
the height of Smashing Pumpkins at their peak, the band does manage to entertain.
Many of the louder numbers are reminiscent of Corgan's previous work. The
poppier tracks seem to work best. The DVD contains throwaway footage (way
too many cutesy shots of the band acting silly)...and is probably included
mainly as an incentive for fans to buy the CD. This band would benefit from
stronger songs and more sparse, open arrangements. This album may be an
indication that better things are yet to come...? (Rating: 4++)
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